Studio Technologies 68 V.1 - Manual (Page 7)

Model 68/69 User Guide Issue 2, June 1999
Studio Technologies, Inc. Page 7
for Surround
Introduction
What This User Guide Covers
This User Guide is designed to assist you
when installing and using the Model 68
Central Controller and the Model 69
Control Console.
StudioComm for Surround
As the production of multi-channel “sur-
round sound” audio material becomes
more prevalent, the need to monitor these
sources becomes imperative for more and
more facilities. Studio Technologies has
addressed the needs of smaller facilities
with the StudioComm Model 68 Central
Controller and Model 69 Control Console.
Together they provide the means to select
input sources, control the level of monitor
loudspeakers, and provide mute and solo
functions, along with many other features.
A StudioComm for Surround system starts
with a Model 69 Control Console, a com-
pact but comfortable “command center”
that is designed to reside at the operator’s
location. Using a single 9-conductor cable,
it connects to a Model 68 Central Control-
ler. The Model 68 supports two 6-channel
inputs, two stereo inputs, and six monitor
output channels in a single rack space.
Special features are also supported,
including interfacing with remote control
signals and “tight” integration with stereo
mix consoles.
The Models 68 and 69 were developed
in conjunction with experts in the post-
production and music-only audio fields.
The overall goal turned out to be very
straightforward: Provide the necessary
technical performance and features, while
keeping it simple to operate! Be certain
that operators won’t have to go through
a long “learning curve” before they be-
come efficient. The end result achieves
these goals, providing the required re-
sources in a simple-to-operate format.
Model 68 Central Controller
The Model 68 Central Controller is a single
rack-space unit containing analog audio
and digital control circuitry. Audio input
and output connections are made using
three 25-pin D-subminiature (“D-sub”)
connectors. The connectors follow an
industry-standard multi-channel wiring
scheme. A 9-pin D-sub connector is used
to connect the Model 68 to a Model 69
Control Console. A second 9-pin D-sub
connector provides access to the remote
control inputs.
The surround and stereo inputs, as well
as the monitor outputs, are electronically
balanced. Fifteen-turn trim potentiometers
are used to precisely calibrate the input
and monitor output signals. Using electro-
mechanical relays, the 6-channel monitor
output provides power-up and power-down
protection for the loudspeakers.
The L/R Bypass function allows a stereo
line-level audio source to be passively
routed to the Model 68’s left and right
monitor output channels, while muting the
center, left surround, right surround, and
subwoofer monitor outputs. The L/R By-
pass audio source is normally the monitor
output of a stereo audio console. The L/R
Bypass function, along with associated
remote control functions, make it simple
for an existing facility to add surround
monitoring capability.
An 8-bit micro-controller provides the logic
“horsepower” for the Model 68. AC mains
power is connected directly to the Model