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Highlights
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Excellent audio quality
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Configuration flexibility
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Simple user interface
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Next-generation performance
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Standard connectors
Overview
The
Model 220 Announcer’s Console is designed to serve as the audio control
“hub” for announcers, commentators, and production talent. The tabletop
unit is suited for numerous applications including on-air sports
broadcasting. The Model 220 is compatible with essentially all broadcast
and audio system environments. Standard connectors are used to interface
microphone, headphone, on-air, talkback, and IFB signals.
Whether it’s microphone switching,
talkback outputs, or headphone cue feed, superior audio quality is
maintained throughout. A microprocessor provides the Model 220’s logic
power, allowing exacting control of the unit’s operation. With extensive
flexibility built in, creating the desired operating configuration is a
simple matter. While the operating features of the unit can be
extensively configured, the user is presented with an easy-to-use set of
controls and indicators. Power on the inside, simplicity during
use—that’s the hallmark of the Model 220.
A truly next-generation product,
extensive research into the needs and desires of field production
personnel was integral to the Model 220’s creation. While primarily
targeted for on-air television applications, specialized features are
included to allow the Model 220 to be used in a variety of other audio
applications. These include on-air radio broadcasting, stadium
announcement, and voice-over/narration booths.
Microphone
Input
A high-performance microphone
preamplifier circuit provides low-noise/low-distortion amplification
over a 20 to 60 dB gain range. The gain is adjustable in 10 dB steps. The
input is compatible with balanced dynamic and condenser microphones. The
microphone power source is 48 volts nominal and meets the worldwide P48
phantom standard. An LED indicator serves as an aid for optimizing the
setting of the preamplifier’s gain. The output of the microphone
preamplifier is used by the main output as well as being routed to the
compressor circuit that supports the talkback functions.
Main Output
The Model 220 provides a main output
that is designed to serve as the on-air, stadium announcement, or other
primary audio feed. Nominally –2 dBu, it is designed as a fully
professional interface with high output capability, low distortion, and
low noise. It features a high-quality transformer expressly designed for
driving long broadcast cable runs.
For specialized applications an optional
direct microphone output card is available. This allows an external
microphone preamplifier to be used. Of course this output also provides
“click-free” microphone on/off (“muting”) control.
Talkback Outputs
The two talkback outputs are intended to
provide production trucks, control rooms, or support personnel with
talent-originated cue signals. These outputs are transformer-coupled
with +4 dBu nominal signal levels. They contain resistors in series with
their output connector, allowing the talkback outputs from multiple
units to be directly “summed.”
For non-on-air applications, a special
Model 220 feature can be enabled, placing the unit in a “production”
mode. This allows the main output to be used as a third talkback output.
In this configuration the unit can be even more powerful when used in
corporate or theatrical events, for example serving as a master console
for a production director.
Dynamic
Range Control
A studio-quality compressor circuit is
provided to control the dynamic range of the signal coming from the
microphone preamplifier. Far from a simple “clipper,” the circuit
utilizes a sophisticated laser-trimmed voltage-controlled-amplifier (VCA)
integrated circuit for quiet, low-distortion level control. The signal
from the compressor is always used by the talkback outputs. In addition,
the audio source for the main output can be selected to be either the
output of the microphone preamplifier or the output of the compressor.
While possibly not appropriate for major on-air situations, having
dynamic range control of the main output can offer increased performance
for many applications. These could include stadium announcement
positions, sports events using nonprofessional on-air talent, and
situations where cable crosstalk is of concern.
User
Controls and Status Indicators
Three pushbutton switches, four LED
indicators, and two rotary controls provide the user with a clear,
easy-to-use interface. One pushbutton switch controls the status of the
main output. This is the audio output intended for on-air, announcement,
or other primary uses. Two LEDs display the on/off status of the main
output. Two additional pushbutton switches control the status of the two
talkback outputs. These are the audio outputs used to communicate with
producers, directors, “spotters,” or other behind-the-scenes production
personnel. A status LED is associated with each talkback button. Two
rotary controls allow the user to adjust the level of the headphone
output.
Flexibility
A large part of the Model 220’s unique
power is the ability to configure the operation of the main output and
talkback functions. To meet the needs of the many specific broadcast and
production applications, a variety of button operating modes is
available. The main output button can be selected to operate from among
four modes. In the “push-to-mute” mode the button performs a momentary
mute of the main output. In this way a “cough” button function is
created, something typically required for television sports
broadcasting. In the “push-to-talk” mode the button provides a momentary
active function for the main output. This mode would be appropriate for
applications such as stadium announcement. An alternate action
“latching” configuration allows the button to enable or disable the main
output as desired. This is useful in radio broadcasting, announce-booth,
or voice-over applications. The fourth mode provides a hybrid function,
supporting both push-to-talk and tap-to-enable/tap-to-disable operation.
This operation is similar to that found in many broadcast intercom
system user stations.
The two buttons associated with the
talkback functions can be configured to operate from either of two
modes. One of the modes supports a “push-to-talk” function. This is
typically used for on-air broadcast applications. The other mode
provides a hybrid function, the operation of which is discussed in the
previous paragraph. The hybrid mode is especially useful when the Model
220 is used in a production-support application.
In addition to the two modes provided
for talkback 1, the button associated with talkback 2 supports three
additional operating modes. One mode allows talkback 2 to be disabled.
This is useful when only talkback 1 is to be utilized. The other two
modes provide special momentary and hybrid functions. With these modes
the operation of the main and talkback outputs are not impacted. This
allows the talkback 2 button to control the state of the Model 220’s
auxiliary relay, making specialized implementations possible.
IFB
Input
A broadcast-standard
“wet” (DC with audio) IFB circuit can be directly connected to the Model
220’s IFB input. Originated by sources such as the
Telex®/RTS® 4000-series IFB
system or IFB interface devices from Studio Technologies, the connected
IFB circuit can provide DC power to operate the Model 220 as well as two
channels of cue audio.
Cue
Sources
The
Model 220 allows up to four audio sources to be selected for routing to
the headphone output. The sources are IFB channel 1, IFB channel 2, line
input 1, and line input 2. Each source can be individually assigned to
the left channel, right channel, or both left and right. This allows a
wide variety of stereo and mono headphone mixes to be created.
The two audio signals associated with
the IFB input can be assigned to the headphone output. Originating in
production trailers, control rooms, or remote locations, these
unbalanced sources normally provide DC power and program-with-interrupt
audio on one channel and program-only audio on the other.
For application flexibility, two
line-level audio sources can also be connected to the Model 220.
Possible signal sources include off-air receivers, wireless IFB systems,
and audio consoles. The connected signals can be from two independent
sources, or could be a stereo audio feed such as would be associated
with a broadcast music event. Two trim potentiometers, located on the
bottom of the unit, allow signals with wide nominal audio levels to be
cleanly interfaced.
Headphone
Output
Two rotary controls are provided for
user adjustment of the headphone output levels. For application
flexibility, the actual function of the two “pots” is configurable. For
traditional on-air sports applications they can be selected to the dual
level control mode, which provides independent control of the left and
right channel volume. For use with stereo cue signals, or to support
user preference, the level/balance mode can be selected. In this mode
one control adjusts the overall level of both the left and right
channels, while the other allows adjustment of the left/right level
balance. To help minimize the chance of broadcast cues being missed,
both level control modes can be configured so that a minimum headphone
output level is maintained. Alternately, the headphone output can be set
to fully mute when the controls are at their minimum position.
The headphone output was designed to
meet the needs of contemporary headphones and headsets. Specifically,
the output circuits act as voltage, rather than power, drivers. In this
configuration they can provide high output levels with very low
distortion and noise, along with minimal current consumption. The output
circuits are configured to safely drive stereo or mono loads. This
ensures that all types of headphones, headsets, and earpieces can be
directly connected.
Audio
Quality and Protection
The Model 220’s circuitry is carefully
tailored to provide
excellent audio performance. Professional-quality components are
featured throughout. For reliability all audio routing is performed
using solid-state devices. In all critical audio paths, “clickless”
electronic switches provide noise-free control. All audio inputs and
outputs make extensive use of protection components. This limits the
chance of damage from ESD and other undesirable, yet real-world, hazards.
Power
Sources
The Model 220 can derive its operating
power from either the IFB input or an external nominal 24 volt DC
source. For redundancy, both power sources can be connected
simultaneously. An internal switch-mode power supply ensures that all
Model 220 features, including phantom power, are available when the unit
is powered by either source.
The Model 220 is compatible with IFB
circuits provided by most standard broadcast systems. However, maximum
performance can often be obtained by using the IFB interface devices
available from Studio Technologies. Single-channel and four-channel
units are available, each providing high-quality audio along with an
excellent source of DC power. They’re directly compatible with most
matrix intercom systems, as well as standard line-level audio signals.
Auxiliary
Relay
The Model 220’s circuitry includes a
general-purpose relay, allowing specialized configurations to be
created. Under software control, the relay can be configured to follow
the state of the mic, talkback 1, or talkback 2 buttons. Taking
advantage of the locations provided for additional XLR-type connectors,
a technician may easily implement a variety of functions such as mic
active indication, audio muting during talkback, or audio insertion
control. Several modes were specifically included to allow direct
control of the relay using the talkback 2 button, without impacting any
of the audio signals. The auxiliary relay is also used by the optional
direct microphone output card.
Configuration
Model 220
configurations are made using a number of DIP-type switches and two trim
potentiometers. One 8-position switch array is used to set the gain of
the microphone preamplifier and the on/off status of phantom power.
Another 8-position switch array configures which of the cue audio
sources are routed to the headphone output. Two additional 8-position
switch arrays communicate the desired operating modes to the
microprocessor. Two rotary trim pots are used to adjust the input
sensitivity of the line inputs. All switches and trim pots are
accessible via the bottom of the Model 220’s enclosure; the unit does
not have to be disassembled. Changes made to any of the configuration
parameters become active immediately. To prevent access to the
configuration controls a security panel, included with each unit, is
attached to the bottom of the enclosure.
Connectors
The Model 220 uses
standard connectors throughout. The microphone, IFB, and line inputs use
3-pin female XLR-type connectors. The main and talkback outputs use
3-pin male XLRs. The headphone output utilizes a ¼-inch 3-conductor
jack. The external source of 24 volt DC power is connected by way of a
2.1 x 5.5 mm “locking” coaxial power jack.
In the world of
broadcast and production audio it’s fair to say that applications vary
widely. To this end, up to three additional XLR-type connectors can be
easily mounted into the Model 220’s back panel. Multiple 3-position
“headers” located on the Model 220’s circuit board provide
technician-access to literally every input and output connection. Using
a factory-available interface cable kit, these allow a Model 220 to be
optimized to meet the exact needs of specific applications. For example,
some applications may prefer to use a multi-pin XLR-type connector to
interface with a headset. This could be easily accomplished by adding
the appropriate 5-, 6-, or 7-pin XLR-type connector and making a few
simple connections. Other applications may benefit from having “mult” or
“loop-through” connections, something easily incorporated into a Model
220.
Optional Direct Mic Output
In most cases the Model
220’s standard resources are more than sufficient to support the desired
application. But special needs always seem to arise. To that end,
several optional cards are available. Each card contains an integral
3-pin XLR-type connector, allowing simple installation into a spare
connector position on the Model 220’s back panel. The direct microphone
output card provides access to the dynamic or condenser microphone that
is connected to the Model 220. Passive components, along with the
auxiliary relay contact, create a “click-free” audio signal.
200-Series Announcer's Console Products
The Model 220 is just
one in a series of announcer console products available from Studio
Technologies. For applications that require an alternate set of features
the other products in the 200-series should be reviewed.
Model 220 Specifications
General
Audio:
Frequency Response: 20 Hz-20 kHZ, ±0.1 dB, mic in/main out
Distortion (THD+N): 0.008%, measured at 1 kHz, mic in/main out
S/N Ratio: 80 dB, referenced to –46 dBu mic in/–2 dBu main out
Connectors:
Mic In, IFB In, Line In 1 & 2: 3-pin female XLR-type
Main Out, Talkback Out 1 & 2: 3-pin male XLR-type
Headphone Out: ¼-inch 3-conductor phone jack
24 Vdc Power In: coaxial power jack, 2.1 x 5.5 mm, locking bushing,
compatible with Switchcraft S760K plug
Spare
Connector Locations: 3
Allows up to three Neutrik NC*D-L-1 connectors to be installed (*=3F, 3M,
5F, 5M, 6F, 6FS, etc.)
Microphone
Input/Preamplifier:
Type: electronically balanced
Input Impedance: 2 k ohms, nominal
Gain Range: 20 to 60 dB, nominal, adjustable in 10 dB steps
Compatibility: dynamic or phantom-powered mics
Phantom Power: 48 Vdc, nominal, meets IEC 61938
IFB
Input:
Type: 2-channel, unbalanced (pin 1 common; pin 2 DC with channel 1
audio;
pin 3 channel 2 audio)
Impedance: 10 k ohms, nominal
Nominal Level: –10 dBu
Line
Inputs: 2
Type: balanced, transformer-coupled
Impedance: 10 k ohms, nominal
Nominal Level: –12 dBV to +6 dBu, adjustable
Compressor:
Threshold: 2 dB above nominal level
Attack/Release Time: 2 mSec/100 mSec, nominal
Slope: 5:1, nominal
Status LED: compressor active
Main
Output:
Type: balanced, transformer-coupled
Nominal Level: –2 dBu
Maximum Level: +20 dBu into 2 k ohms
Impedance: 100 ohms, nominal
Talkback
Outputs: 2
Type: transformer-coupled with series capacitors and isolation resistors
Impedance: 600 ohms, nominal
Nominal Level: +4 dBu
Maximum Level: +11 dBu (compressor restricts maximum)
Headphone
Output: 1, stereo
Compatibility: intended for connection to mono or stereo headphones or
headsets with nominal impedance of 100 ohms or greater
Type: voltage driver
Maximum Output Voltage: 8 Vpp, 150 ohm load
Auxiliary
Relay:
Function: software configurable
Contacts: 2, form C (Common, Normally Closed, Normally Open)
Rating: 1 A, 30 W (resistive)
Access: requires user-implemented connector scheme
Power
Sources:
IFB: 24-32 Vdc, 125 mA
External: 24 Vdc nominal, 80 mA @ 24 Vdc; acceptable range 20-30 Vdc. Units
shipped to North America and Japan include a 120 V input/24 Vdc output
power supply. Units shipped to all other locations include a universal
input/24 Vdc output power supply.
Options:
direct microphone output card
Dimensions
(Overall):
8.1 inches wide (20.6 cm)
3.3 inches high (8.4 cm)
8.5 inches deep (22.4 cm)
Weight:
4.5 pounds (2.1 kg)
Specifications
subject to change without notice.
Model 200-Series Announcer's Consoles
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Which
Announcer's Console is right for your application? Review the
Model 200-Series
Announcer's Consoles Feature-by-Feature Comparison Chart.
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A
host of optional accessories can be added on to the
Model 200-Series Announcer's Consoles. For more information review the
Model 200-Series
Announcer's Consoles Accessories List.
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