[ ] TECH ] FOCUS 42 November2012 | audiomedia.com > Headphones & In-Ear Monitors If you are an audio professional, you are probably going to be using headphones on a fairly regular basis. How do you know what will be best for your needs, and what choice is available? You turn to <strong>Audio</strong> <strong>Media</strong>, of course, because we have sorted out a buyer’s guide for you. Get your cans on and listen to what we have to say. Witness There is a fair amount of choice out there for professional headphone users. The first thing to do is to identify the design features that will suit your needs. Closed Back or Open Back? Open backed headphones allow acoustical energy to leave the system through the back of each earpiece, which means less resonance and a better sound quality than a closed system. Closed back headphones use materials to dampen that energy – this adds extra weight and will change the nature of the sound. If you plan to use headphones for long periods, it might be worth considering an open back pair as they are less tiring for your ears. Why doesn’t everyone just use open back headphones then? The answer is lack of isolation. You can hear everything going on around you, and others will hear what you are listening to. A closed system provides isolation of around 30-40 dB. So, for use over long periods where interference isn’t a problem, use open back. If there will be distracting background noise, closed back. Circumaural or Supra-Aural? Headphones with large ear pads with an elliptical cushion that circles the ear are circumaural. Supra-aural headphones sit on top of your ears. For extensive use circumaural headphones will probably be more comfortable, as the cushions contact each side of your head, which removes pressure from your ears. The cushions can also provide extra isolation. Supra-aural headphones tend to be significantly smaller, making them more convenient for location sound. Because the acoustical volume being moved is smaller, resulting in higher sound pressure levels for the same amount of energy, sounds can be played more loudly through supra-aural headphones. Heavy or Lightweight? Lightweight headphones are more comfortable, and lower weight results in less pressure being applied to the user’s head and ears. The overall weight has no bearing on sound quality – the only exception is the magnet system, which has to be the right size to provide sufficient power. Which Materials? Commonly used materials include magnesium, aluminium, and high tech plastics – all lightweight and non-resonant. High-tech plastic has an inner damping, while metal parts require extra material to dampen resonance. Transducers The most commonly used transducer design is the dynamic, moving-coil driver. These use a stationary magnet and a wire voice coil to move a stiff diaphragm. Several manufacturers have tweaked this design with their own principles and proprietary elements. Thus, different design principles are not necessarily particularly different, but you will get what you pay for. Marketing If you start looking around for a high-quality headphone, you will quickly realise that certain buzz words come up again and again. These mostly involve transducer design, with exciting shiny phrases to convince you that you should buy this product because it has the latest, most special transducer. Of course, the quality of the headphone is affected by these things but there are also other details that are important too – the quality of the wire in the voice coil, the kind of glue used to attach the diaphragm. These will all make a noticeable difference to sound reproduction. Conclusion: There is a wide choice of headphones available, and we hope this guide will help you narrow your search. There is no substitute, however, for listening to lots of different sets and deciding what you like the sound of. Expert Witness This expert witness section is a summary of a longer piece in our International Buyer’s Guide to Monitoring and Headphones, which was compiled from contributions by various manufacturers. EXPERT [If you are an audio professional, you are probably going to be using headphones on a fairly regular basis. How do you ] A nice look gives you grab inspiration at the time of recording. Simplicity grants the microphone a long life and durability. After having recorded, you will never be surprised by incorrect settings, as there will be a chance to change them. And most importantly, and refl ections. New tech ‘Golden Drops’, is used capsule microphones from 2008. PRODUCTS In 2008-2009, Violet introduced several new microphones and accessories. SOUNDFIELD Surround Recording From A Single Microphone Surround Recording From A Single Microphone Surround Recording A nice look gives you time of recording. icrophone a long life and refl ections. New tech ‘Golden Drops’, is used from 2008. + + + SOUNDFIELD SOUNDFIELD Surround Recording Surround Recording From A Single Microphone From A Single Microphone Surround Recording From A Single Microphone Surround Recording Surround Recording From A Single Microphone Surround Recording + + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + Violet Microphones – Ears For Your Sound Violet Microphones – Ears For Your Sound Violet Microphones – A nice look gives you the possibility to time of recording. icrophone a long life communication with the membrane, and reduction of parasitic internal resonances and refl ections. New technology, named ‘Golden Drops’, is used in all our large from 2008. time to: Get back to what matters – get into Violet Microphones. that is predictable and can be tailored with some precision to what is required. Physics Versus Emotion Despite what many would regard as the benefits of the techno-physical approach, a great deal of the literature and advice on the use of microphones is based on apparently non-technical considerations. Often a microphone will be listed as best Often a microphone will be listed as best suited for vocals simply because it has, suited for vocals simply because it has, by chance, sounded pleasant on a previous by chance, sounded pleasant on a previous by chance, sounded pleasant on a previous occasion or looks similar in shape to one occasion or looks similar in shape to one that was used in that way. that was used in that way. tube (valve) microphones give ‘a warm sound’ because they become physically warm in use – or that large microphones yield a bigger ‘sound image’ (whatever that means) than smaller designs. This latter notion undoubtedly stems from folklore that has been fostered by those with vested interests in the promotion of large- vested interests in the promotion of large- diaphragm microphones. In purely physical diaphragm microphones. In purely physical diaphragm microphones. In purely physical terms there is, of course, no requirement terms there is, of course, no requirement terms there is, of course, no requirement terms there is, of course, no requirement for the diaphragm to be large in order to be for the diaphragm to be large in order to be for the diaphragm to be large in order to be for the diaphragm to be large in order to be able to respond to low frequencies. able to respond to low frequencies. able to respond to low frequencies. Making Comparisons Every innovation needs to be tested and Every innovation needs to be tested and Every innovation needs to be tested and Every innovation needs to be tested and proven – which leads us to the awkward proven – which leads us to the awkward proven – which leads us to the awkward proven – which leads us to the awkward problem that some of the steps problem that some of the steps forward are very small ones. To hear forward are very small ones. To hear them requires controlled listening them requires controlled listening + + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + them requires controlled listening + + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + them requires controlled listening + + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + under good conditions and, above under good conditions and, above under good conditions and, above + + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + under good conditions and, above + + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + under good conditions and, above + + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + all, with a proper reference; but all, with a proper reference; but + + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + all, with a proper reference; but + + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + all too frequently a new product all too frequently a new product + + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + all too frequently a new product + + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + all too frequently a new product all too frequently a new product or design is assayed in splendid or design is assayed in splendid or design is assayed in splendid or design is assayed in splendid isolation. Expectation or fervent isolation. Expectation or fervent isolation. Expectation or fervent isolation. Expectation or fervent belief that it must be better belief that it must be better belief that it must be better belief that it must be better belief that it must be better belief that it must be better strains judgement, and within strains judgement, and within strains judgement, and within strains judgement, and within strains judgement, and within strains judgement, and within strains judgement, and within a short time highly coloured a short time highly coloured a short time highly coloured a short time highly coloured opinions are circulating and opinions are circulating and opinions are circulating and opinions are circulating and opinions are circulating and opinions are circulating and a myth is built which is as a myth is built which is as a myth is built which is as a myth is built which is as a myth is built which is as a myth is built which is as baseless as it is hard to baseless as it is hard to baseless as it is hard to baseless as it is hard to eradicate. eradicate. There really is no There really is no There really is no alternative to properly alternative to properly alternative to properly alternative to properly controlled listening controlled listening controlled listening controlled listening tests if audio devices tests if audio devices tests if audio devices tests if audio devices tests if audio devices are to be compared in are to be compared in are to be compared in are to be compared in an impartial way. AB the membrane, and an impartial way. AB the membrane, and an impartial way. AB an impartial way. AB an impartial way. AB an impartial way. AB tests are limited to the membrane, and tests are limited to the membrane, and tests are limited to tests are limited to a reciprocal basis where, say, microphones have different frequency responses that affect perceived loudness. Microphones for a Particular Use? Although it is extremely common to be told that such and such a microphone is good for, say, violins, this poses the question of why it should be considered to be so. why it should be considered to be so. why it should be considered to be so. Should a microphone be chosen purely on Should a microphone be chosen purely on Should a microphone be chosen purely on Should a microphone be chosen purely on the grounds of what the sound source is? the grounds of what the sound source is? We don’t, after all, have more than one set We don’t, after all, have more than one set of ears to hear everything, and common of ears to hear everything, and common sense dictates that if the microphone is sense dictates that if the microphone is an ideal one it transforms a sound into a an ideal one it transforms a sound into a perfectly corresponding electrical signal. That suggests that the closer a microphone That suggests that the closer a microphone That suggests that the closer a microphone is to the ideal, the more neutral it sounds, is to the ideal, the more neutral it sounds, and the more universally it can be used. and the more universally it can be used. and the more universally it can be used. There is certainly a wide variety of very There is certainly a wide variety of very There is certainly a wide variety of very different top-quality microphones, but it different top-quality microphones, but it different top-quality microphones, but it would be wiser to see these as physically would be wiser to see these as physically would be wiser to see these as physically suited to a particular application rather suited to a particular application rather suited to a particular application rather than a particular sound source. than a particular sound source. than a particular sound source. As far as the ‘perfect’ microphone go As far as the ‘perfect’ microphone goes, es, omni-directional capacitor (condens omni-directional capacitor (condens omni-directional capacitor (condens omni-directional capacitor (condenser) designs approach the ideal very designs approach the ideal very designs approach the ideal very designs approach the ideal very closely. Where you want to favour sound from Where you want to favour sound from Where you want to favour sound from Where you want to favour sound from a single direction and exclude neighb single direction and exclude neighb single direction and exclude neighb single direction and exclude neighbouring ouring instruments or unwanted sound, then o instruments or unwanted sound, then o instruments or unwanted sound, then of course you need a directional micr course you need a directional micr course you need a directional micr course you need a directional micr course you need a directional micr course you need a directional microphone ophone which will be a little further from perfec which will be a little further from perfec which will be a little further from perfec which will be a little further from perfec which will be a little further from perfection. tion. For a start, any directional micropho For a start, any directional micropho For a start, any directional micropho For a start, any directional micropho For a start, any directional microphone (such ne (such as a cardioid) will demonstrate th as a cardioid) will demonstrate th as a cardioid) will demonstrate th as a cardioid) will demonstrate th as a cardioid) will demonstrate the so-called e so-called proximity effect when used close to a proximity effect when used close to a proximity effect when used close to a proximity effect when used close to a sound sound source. Low frequencies will be a source. Low frequencies will be a source. Low frequencies will be a source. Low frequencies will be a source. Low frequencies will be a source. Low frequencies will be accentuated. ccentuated. For a microphone that will commonly For a microphone that will commonly For a microphone that will commonly be used be used in this situation a compensating freq in this situation a compensating freq in this situation a compensating freq in this situation a compensating frequency uency getting techno-physical reduction of parasitic getting techno-physical reduction of parasitic and refl ections. New tech getting techno-physical and refl ections. New technology, named getting techno-physical nology, named in all our large getting techno-physical in all our large + + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI + + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI The Swiss Precision Active Monitoring Series: More Than A Black Box! the sound image is highly accurate. various processes (recording, mixing and mastering) in which various people, locations, and therefore speaker systems, will be involved, corrections may be applied due solely to phase irregularities that are not present on the actual recording. The PSI <strong>Audio</strong> speakers feature our unique CPR system that generates a Compensated I <strong>Audio</strong> can be compared ers. Our vision is to be pioneers in precision au + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + FOSTEX+ + + + FOSTEX+ + + + FOSTEX+ + + + FOSTEX+ + + + FOSTEX+ + + PM Series MkII The PM-Series MkII offer exceptional audio The PM-Series MkII offer exceptional audio performance matched to jaw-dropping good performance matched to jaw-dropping good performance matched to jaw-dropping good looks at an affordable price. Fostex strives to looks at an affordable price. Fostex strives to looks at an affordable price. Fostex strives to design and build studio monitoring systems design and build studio monitoring systems that enable you to experience your unique that enable you to experience your unique sound in all its dimensions. And through tireless research and development, endless measurements and real-world listening tests, Fostex’s engineers have achieved this in the form of the beautiful second generation PM-Series. Capitalising on Fostex’s supreme + + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI Capitalising on Fostex’s supreme + + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI knowledge of acoustics and speaker knowledge of acoustics and speaker + + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI knowledge of acoustics and speaker + + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI engineering, and now offering a brighter, engineering, and now offering a brighter, + + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI engineering, and now offering a brighter, + + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI The Swiss Precision Active Monitoring Series: engineering, and now offering a brighter, The Swiss Precision Active Monitoring Series: tighter sound, these studio monitors are tighter sound, these studio monitors are + + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI tighter sound, these studio monitors are + + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI The Swiss Precision Active Monitoring Series: tighter sound, these studio monitors are The Swiss Precision Active Monitoring Series: PM-2 MkII PM-2 MkII Created for larger rooms, the PM-2 has Created for larger rooms, the PM-2 has Created for larger rooms, the PM-2 has Created for larger rooms, the PM-2 has Created for larger rooms, the PM-2 has Created for larger rooms, the PM-2 has the power (240 watts of bi-amped power the power (240 watts of bi-amped power the power (240 watts of bi-amped power the power (240 watts of bi-amped power the power (240 watts of bi-amped power actually) and sophistication and, most actually) and sophistication and, most actually) and sophistication and, most actually) and sophistication and, most importantly, the versatility to handle the importantly, the versatility to handle the importantly, the versatility to handle the importantly, the versatility to handle the most demanding recording applications. most demanding recording applications. most demanding recording applications. most demanding recording applications. Equipped with a 200mm low frequency unit Equipped with a 200mm low frequency unit Equipped with a 200mm low frequency unit Equipped with a 200mm low frequency unit and remaining natural and transparent right and remaining natural and transparent right and remaining natural and transparent right and remaining natural and transparent right across the audio spectrum, even at high across the audio spectrum, even at high across the audio spectrum, even at high across the audio spectrum, even at high sound pressure levels, the PM-2 is great for sound pressure levels, the PM-2 is great for sound pressure levels, the PM-2 is great for sound pressure levels, the PM-2 is great for + + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI sound pressure levels, the PM-2 is great for + + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI + + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI sound pressure levels, the PM-2 is great for + + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI today’s bass heavy music. today’s bass heavy music. today’s bass heavy music. + + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI today’s bass heavy music. + + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI + + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI today’s bass heavy music. + + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI PM-1 MkII PM-1 MkII + + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI PM-1 MkII + + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI Perfectly proportioned and offering the type Perfectly proportioned and offering the type The Swiss Precision Active Monitoring Series: Perfectly proportioned and offering the type The Swiss Precision Active Monitoring Series: of clear-transparent sound that singles of clear-transparent sound that singles The Swiss Precision Active Monitoring Series: of clear-transparent sound that singles The Swiss Precision Active Monitoring Series: out a great speaker, the PM-1 is capable out a great speaker, the PM-1 is capable The Swiss Precision Active Monitoring Series: out a great speaker, the PM-1 is capable The Swiss Precision Active Monitoring Series: of producing extremely high of producing extremely high SPLs accurately across the SPLs accurately across the full audio spectrum. With 120 full audio spectrum. With 120 watts of bi-amped power and watts of bi-amped power and a bass response that’s full and a bass response that’s full and ers. Our vision is to be a bass response that’s full and ers. Our vision is to be dynamic, and a crisp high- dynamic, and a crisp high- ers. Our vision is to be dynamic, and a crisp high- ers. Our vision is to be end that sparkles with vitality, end that sparkles with vitality, the PM-1 delivers the type of the PM-1 delivers the type of sonic quality that’s usually the sonic quality that’s usually the domain of monitors costing thousands. various processes (recording, mixing costing thousands. various processes (recording, mixing PM0.5 MkII and mastering) in which various people, PM0.5 MkII and mastering) in which various people, locations, and therefore speaker systems, PM0.5 MkII locations, and therefore speaker systems, The ideal choice for smaller locations, and therefore speaker systems, The ideal choice for smaller locations, and therefore speaker systems, will be involved, corrections may be applied The ideal choice for smaller will be involved, corrections may be applied studios requiring nearfi eld will be involved, corrections may be applied studios requiring nearfi eld will be involved, corrections may be applied due solely to phase irregularities that studios requiring nearfi eld due solely to phase irregularities that monitoring, the perfectly due solely to phase irregularities that monitoring, the perfectly due solely to phase irregularities that are not present on the actual recording. monitoring, the perfectly are not present on the actual recording. The PSI <strong>Audio</strong> speakers feature our unique monitoring, the perfectly The PSI <strong>Audio</strong> speakers feature our unique formed PM0.5 MkII offers are not present on the actual recording. formed PM0.5 MkII offers are not present on the actual recording. The PSI <strong>Audio</strong> speakers feature our unique formed PM0.5 MkII offers The PSI <strong>Audio</strong> speakers feature our unique 70watts of bi-amped power The PSI <strong>Audio</strong> speakers feature our unique 70watts of bi-amped power The PSI <strong>Audio</strong> speakers feature our unique CPR system that generates a Compensated 70watts of bi-amped power CPR system that generates a Compensated and produces great full range PM0.4 The ultra-compact PM0.4 now completes The ultra-compact PM0.4 now completes the lineup of the reputed PM-series ranging the lineup of the reputed PM-series ranging from 4” to 8” woofer size. PM0.4 is naturally from 4” to 8” woofer size. PM0.4 is naturally recommended for desktop use but its superb audio performance in compact physical size expands its applications to professional console top studio monitoring, audio installation, as well as portable audio monitoring. PM0.5-Sub MkII Designed ideally for use with the PM0.5 Designed ideally for use with the PM0.5 MkII, the 110watt, 200mm driver PM0.5- MkII, the 110watt, 200mm driver PM0.5- Sub produces precise, low frequency Sub produces precise, low frequency reproduction and an excellent deep bass reproduction and an excellent deep bass output. Easy to set-up (just a single gain output. Easy to set-up (just a single gain control and phase reverse switch), the control and phase reverse switch), the combination of a pair of PM0.5s and combination of a pair of PM0.5s and PM0.5-Sub provides superb sonic quality PM0.5-Sub provides superb sonic quality PM0.5-Sub provides superb sonic quality + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + PM0.5-Sub provides superb sonic quality + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + PM0.5-Sub provides superb sonic quality + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + at an affordable price. Recommended for at an affordable price. Recommended for at an affordable price. Recommended for use with PM0.4. NX-5A The Swiss Precision Active Monitoring Series: More Than A Black Box! the sound image is highly accurate. This technology allows the design of surround sound systems with different types of PSI <strong>Audio</strong> speakers that maintains an various processes (recording, mixing and mastering) in which various people, locations, and therefore speaker systems, will be involved, corrections may be applied due solely to phase irregularities that are not present on the actual recording. The PSI <strong>Audio</strong> speakers feature our unique I <strong>Audio</strong> can be compared to Swiss watch designers. Our vision is to be pioneers in precision audio, combining innovation, creativity Choosing Nearfi eld Monitors Should Be Easy PM Series Group After all, they only have one job to do. The job of monitoring. Not enhancing, not diminishing, not in any way altering the source material. + + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + Violet Microphones – Ears For Your Sound Violet Microphones – Ears For Your Sound Violet Microphones – icrophones Made in Latvia to picture today’s g industry without tions and expressive Violet nes are For a while only price mattered, but now, it is Get back to quality, get back to reliability, Get back to what matters – get into Violet Microph in Latvia to picture today’s g industry without tions and expressive A nice look gives you grab inspiration at the Simplicity grants the m and durability. After h The benefi ts of Violet Design microphones are: Ears For Your Sound A nice look gives you For a while only price mattered, but now, it is Get back to quality, get back to reliability, Get back to what matters – get into Violet Microph + + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + Violet Microphones – Ears For Your Sound Violet Microphones – Ears For Your Sound Violet Microphones – A nice look gives you For a while only price mattered, but now, it is time to: Get back to quality, get back to reliability, Get back to what matters – get into Violet Microph that is predictable some precision Physics Versus Emotion Despite what many would regard as the benefits of the techno-physical approach, a great deal of the literature and advice on the use of microphones is based on apparently non-technical considerations. Often a microphone will be listed as best Often a microphone will be listed as best suited for vocals simply because it has, by chance, sounded pleasant on a previous by chance, sounded pleasant on a previous occasion or looks similar in shape to one occasion or looks similar in shape to one that was used in that way. that was used in that way. Given that the Given that the 6 Get back to what matters – get into Violet Microph 6 Get back to what matters – get into Violet Microph Violet Design – Microphones Made It is almost impossible to picture today’s pro audio and recording industry without technological innovations and expressive designs introduced by Violet nes are Get back to quality, get back to reliability, get back to design… Get back to what matters – get into Violet Microph pro audio and recordin technological innova + + + + + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + Violet Microphones – Ears For Your Sound Violet Microphones – Ears For Your Sound Violet Microphones – For a while only price mattered, but now, it is Violet Design – M It is almost impossible pro audio and recordin Get back to quality, get back to reliability, get back to design Get back to what matters – get into Violet Microph pro audio and recordin + + + VIOLET VIOLET + + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + + VIOLET+ + + Violet Microphones – + + + Violet Microphones – Ears For Your Sound Violet Microphones – Ears For Your Sound Violet Microphones – Ears For Your Sound For a while only price mattered, but now, it is For a while only price mattered, but now, it is Get back to quality, get back to reliability, Get back to quality, get back to reliability, get back to design Get back to what matters – get into Violet Microph Get back to quality, get back to reliability, get back to design Get back to quality, get back to reliability, get back to design get back to design Get back to what matters – get into Violet Microph Violet Design – M It is almost impossible pro audio and recordin Violet Design – M Violet Design – M Violet Design – M It is almost impossible pro audio and recordin + + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI + + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI The Swiss Precision Active Monitoring Series: The Swiss Precision Active Monitoring Series: More Than A Black Box! More Than A Black Box! The philosophy of PS The philosophy of PSI <strong>Audio</strong> can be compared globally recognised as + + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI The Swiss Precision Active Monitoring Series: More Than A Black Box! I <strong>Audio</strong> can be compared globally recognised as pioneers in precision au + + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI The Swiss Precision Active Monitoring Series: More Than A Black Box! I <strong>Audio</strong> can be compared pioneers in precision au + + + + + + FOSTEX FOSTEX PM Series MkII The PM-Series MkII offer exceptional audio The Swiss Precision Active Monitoring Series: SOUNDFIELD Surround Recording From A Single Microphone Surround Recording From A Single Microphone Surround Recording + + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOU tems can produce , M/S and surround from a single mic? With their surround-ready mic technology, it’s easy to see why SoundField systems are the products of choice for many HD broadcasters working in surround... SOUNDFIELD Surround Recording From A Single Microphone Surround Recording From A Single Microphone Surround Recording + + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI + + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOU From A Single Microphone tems can produce , M/S and surround their surround-ready mic why SoundField systems The Swiss Precision Active Monitoring Series: More Than A Black Box! + + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOU + + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOU + + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOU + + + + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI The Swiss Precision Active Monitoring Series: More Than A Black Box! + + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOU + + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI+ + + + PSI How Everything Started The founder of Horch, Gibbs Platen is very familiar with the world of audio. His recording studio Zuckerfabrik was famous for American Jazz and Rock productions, and acoustic bands such as Colosseum, Wolfgang Dauner, John Scofi eld, Alphonse Mouzon, The United Jazz + Rock Ensemble, etc. He also freelanced for TV and broadcast productions. During this time, Platen became familiar with a During this time, Platen became familiar with a During this time, Platen became familiar with a wide variety of microphones, but his all time favourite wide variety of microphones, but his all time favourite wide variety of microphones, but his all time favourite for vocal recordings was the Neumann M49 tube for vocal recordings was the Neumann M49 tube microphone. However, Platen felt that of these microphone. However, Platen felt that of these old microphones had lost some of their expected old microphones had lost some of their expected excellence by this time. Here, Horch <strong>Audio</strong>’s excellence by this time. Here, Horch <strong>Audio</strong>’s story begins. The Microphones In the early nineties, Gibbs Platen and two friends In the early nineties, Gibbs Platen and two friends In the early nineties, Gibbs Platen and two friends In the early nineties, Gibbs Platen and two friends founded Horch <strong>Audio</strong> with the ambition to build a founded Horch <strong>Audio</strong> with the ambition to build a founded Horch <strong>Audio</strong> with the ambition to build a microphone in the same vein as the M49, but improved. microphone in the same vein as the M49, but improved. microphone in the same vein as the M49, but improved. microphone in the same vein as the M49, but improved. That’s where the Horch RM2 came to life. In the That’s where the Horch RM2 came to life. In the That’s where the Horch RM2 came to life. In the That’s where the Horch RM2 came to life. In the beginning, the RM2 was built using original parts beginning, the RM2 was built using original parts beginning, the RM2 was built using original parts beginning, the RM2 was built using original parts beginning, the RM2 was built using original parts from Neumann. As a fi nishing touch, Platen placed from Neumann. As a fi nishing touch, Platen placed from Neumann. As a fi nishing touch, Platen placed a 0.5-carat brilliant diamond into the front of the a 0.5-carat brilliant diamond into the front of the a 0.5-carat brilliant diamond into the front of the a 0.5-carat brilliant diamond into the front of the a 0.5-carat brilliant diamond into the front of the RM2, which was illuminated from the inside. Later RM2, which was illuminated from the inside. Later RM2, which was illuminated from the inside. Later RM2, which was illuminated from the inside. Later RM2, which was illuminated from the inside. Later RM2, which was illuminated from the inside. Later on, Horch modifi ed the RM2 into the RM2J, with the on, Horch modifi ed the RM2 into the RM2J, with the on, Horch modifi ed the RM2 into the RM2J, with the on, Horch modifi ed the RM2 into the RM2J, with the on, Horch modifi ed the RM2 into the RM2J, with the on, Horch modifi ed the RM2 into the RM2J, with the on, Horch modifi ed the RM2 into the RM2J, with the on, Horch modifi ed the RM2 into the RM2J, with the on, Horch modifi ed the RM2 into the RM2J, with the on, Horch modifi ed the RM2 into the RM2J, with the intention to move the sound more in direction of the intention to move the sound more in direction of the intention to move the sound more in direction of the intention to move the sound more in direction of the intention to move the sound more in direction of the U47. The triode was replaced by a pentode, and a U47. The triode was replaced by a pentode, and a U47. The triode was replaced by a pentode, and a U47. The triode was replaced by a pentode, and a U47. The triode was replaced by a pentode, and a new developed capsule and transformer were built in. new developed capsule and transformer were built in. new developed capsule and transformer were built in. new developed capsule and transformer were built in. new developed capsule and transformer were built in. new developed capsule and transformer were built in. new developed capsule and transformer were built in. The RM3 was released, harking back to the sound of The RM3 was released, harking back to the sound of The RM3 was released, harking back to the sound of The RM3 was released, harking back to the sound of The RM3 was released, harking back to the sound of The RM3 was released, harking back to the sound of The RM3 was released, harking back to the sound of The RM3 was released, harking back to the sound of the old ELA M251 and especially designed for female the old ELA M251 and especially designed for female the old ELA M251 and especially designed for female the old ELA M251 and especially designed for female the old ELA M251 and especially designed for female the old ELA M251 and especially designed for female the old ELA M251 and especially designed for female vocals and instruments. The RM4, recalling the U47 vocals and instruments. The RM4, recalling the U47 vocals and instruments. The RM4, recalling the U47 vocals and instruments. The RM4, recalling the U47 vocals and instruments. The RM4, recalling the U47 vocals and instruments. The RM4, recalling the U47 vocals and instruments. The RM4, recalling the U47 sound, launched in 2007/2008. It displayed a whole new sound, launched in 2007/2008. It displayed a whole new sound, launched in 2007/2008. It displayed a whole new sound, launched in 2007/2008. It displayed a whole new sound, launched in 2007/2008. It displayed a whole new sound, launched in 2007/2008. It displayed a whole new sound, launched in 2007/2008. It displayed a whole new concept – adjustable compression, and saturation of concept – adjustable compression, and saturation of + + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOU concept – adjustable compression, and saturation of + + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOU concept – adjustable compression, and saturation of + + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOU concept – adjustable compression, and saturation of + + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOU concept – adjustable compression, and saturation of + + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOU concept – adjustable compression, and saturation of + + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOU concept – adjustable compression, and saturation of concept – adjustable compression, and saturation of concept – adjustable compression, and saturation of + + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOU concept – adjustable compression, and saturation of + + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOU the microphone. + + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOU the microphone. + + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOU Horch’s Vision Horch’s Vision The idea behind Horch’s vision is to build microphones The idea behind Horch’s vision is to build microphones The idea behind Horch’s vision is to build microphones The idea behind Horch’s vision is to build microphones The idea behind Horch’s vision is to build microphones The idea behind Horch’s vision is to build microphones The idea behind Horch’s vision is to build microphones with outstanding quality for a new listening experience. with outstanding quality for a new listening experience. with outstanding quality for a new listening experience. with outstanding quality for a new listening experience. with outstanding quality for a new listening experience. with outstanding quality for a new listening experience. That is why everything in a Horch microphone is That is why everything in a Horch microphone is That is why everything in a Horch microphone is That is why everything in a Horch microphone is That is why everything in a Horch microphone is That is why everything in a Horch microphone is handmade in Germany. A lot of effort is spent on handmade in Germany. A lot of effort is spent on handmade in Germany. A lot of effort is spent on handmade in Germany. A lot of effort is spent on handmade in Germany. A lot of effort is spent on handmade in Germany. A lot of effort is spent on handmade in Germany. A lot of effort is spent on + + + handmade in Germany. A lot of effort is spent on + + + PSI handmade in Germany. A lot of effort is spent on PSI research and listening, mechanical fi ne-tuning, and research and listening, mechanical fi ne-tuning, and research and listening, mechanical fi ne-tuning, and research and listening, mechanical fi ne-tuning, and research and listening, mechanical fi ne-tuning, and + + + research and listening, mechanical fi ne-tuning, and + + + + + + research and listening, mechanical fi ne-tuning, and + + + research and listening, mechanical fi ne-tuning, and research and listening, mechanical fi ne-tuning, and research and listening, mechanical fi ne-tuning, and research and listening, mechanical fi ne-tuning, and + + + research and listening, mechanical fi ne-tuning, and + + + + + + research and listening, mechanical fi ne-tuning, and + + + keeping in contact with customers and artists. keeping in contact with customers and artists. keeping in contact with customers and artists. keeping in contact with customers and artists. The company is situated in the German high- The company is situated in the German high- The company is situated in the German high- The company is situated in the German high- tech region of Stuttgart (Mercedes, Porsche), tems can produce tech region of Stuttgart (Mercedes, Porsche), tems can produce tech region of Stuttgart (Mercedes, Porsche), tech region of Stuttgart (Mercedes, Porsche), which promotes high standards for mechanical tems can produce which promotes high standards for mechanical tems can produce which promotes high standards for mechanical which promotes high standards for mechanical and electrical quality. , M/S and surround and electrical quality. , M/S and surround and electrical quality. , M/S and surround and electrical quality. , M/S and surround Each Horch is a precious sound tool, that looks , M/S and surround Each Horch is a precious sound tool, that looks , M/S and surround their surround-ready mic Each Horch is a precious sound tool, that looks their surround-ready mic Each Horch is a precious sound tool, that looks , M/S and surround Each Horch is a precious sound tool, that looks , M/S and surround their surround-ready mic Each Horch is a precious sound tool, that looks their surround-ready mic Each Horch is a precious sound tool, that looks Each Horch is a precious sound tool, that looks great and sounds unique. their surround-ready mic great and sounds unique. their surround-ready mic great and sounds unique. their surround-ready mic great and sounds unique. their surround-ready mic are large-diaphragm + + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOU + + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOU Surround Recording From A Single Microphone Surround Recording From A Single Microphone Surround Recording What other microphone systems can produce simultaneous mono, stereo, M/S and surround from a single mic? With their surround-ready mic SOUNDFIELD + + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOUNDFIELD+ + + + SOU Surround Recording From A Single Microphone Surround Recording From A Single Microphone Surround Recording 16 Gibbs Platen, founder of Hor Gibbs Platen, founder of Horch <strong>Audio</strong>. ch <strong>Audio</strong>. + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + Since 1945 Klein + Hummel has been setting global standards Since 1945 Klein + Hummel has been setting global standards in sound reproduction. For over 40 years K+H has focused in sound reproduction. For over 40 years K+H has focused in sound reproduction. For over 40 years K+H has focused on the professional market by developing precise measuring on the professional market by developing precise measuring on the professional market by developing precise measuring instruments – tools to analyse sound and detect the tiniest aural instruments – tools to analyse sound and detect the tiniest aural instruments – tools to analyse sound and detect the tiniest aural nuances. + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + Decoding The DNA Of Sound Decoding The DNA Of Sound Decoding The DNA Of Sound Since 1945 Klein + Hummel has been setting global standards Since 1945 Klein + Hummel has been setting global standards Since 1945 Klein + Hummel has been setting global standards in sound reproduction. For over 40 years K+H has focused in sound reproduction. For over 40 years K+H has focused on the professional market by developing precise measuring + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + 12 12 DYNAUDIO ACOUSTICS AUDIO DYNAUDIO ACOUSTICS AUDIO DYNAUDIO ACOUSTICS AUDIO Decoding The DNA Of Sound DYNAUDIO ACOUSTICS AUDIO Decoding The DNA Of Sound Since 1945 Klein + Hummel has been setting global standards DYNAUDIO ACOUSTICS AUDIO Since 1945 Klein + Hummel has been setting global standards Since 1945 Klein + Hummel has been setting global standards DYNAUDIO ACOUSTICS AUDIO Since 1945 Klein + Hummel has been setting global standards TICS+ + + + DYNAUDIO ACOUSTICS+ + + + get integrated TC Electronic digital get integrated TC Electronic digital signal processing. This combination processing. This combination offers you the best of both worlds, making the best of both worlds, making Dynaudio Acoustics speakers second to n Acoustics speakers second to none. Two Main Ranges – One High S Two Main Ranges – One High Standard Clarity and consistency come as Clarity and consistency come as standard – the question is, how versatile do – the question is, how versatile do you want your setup? Dynaudio Acoustics your setup? Dynaudio Acoustics markets two extensive ranges of DSP po two extensive ranges of DSP powered and analogue near-fi eld and mid-fi analogue near-fi eld and mid-fi eld monitors. analogue near-fi eld and mid-fi eld monitors. analogue near-fi eld and mid-fi AIR It makes great sense to compare It makes great sense to compare the AIR sound with any other speaker y sound with any other speaker you own or consider acquiring. We both en consider acquiring. We both encourage and requires the addition of a number requires the addition of a number of external boxes such as Monitor Matrix Co boxes such as Monitor Matrix Controller, ntroller, Bass Management Crossover, Bass Management Crossover, external external EQs and Delays. This obviously adds EQs and Delays. This obviously adds EQs and Delays. This obviously adds to the system price, and moreover system price, and moreover often degrades often degrades the signal path. With an AIR S the signal path. With an AIR System ystem everything is integrated and match everything is integrated and match everything is integrated and matched – it’s right there for you to use from th right there for you to use from the menu e menu on the front of a Master-Module s on the front of a Master-Module s on the front of a Master-Module speaker via a 32-segment LCD display, o via a 32-segment LCD display, or through r through an optional dedicated hardware an optional dedicated hardware remote, or remote, or an optional dedicated software a an optional dedicated software application pplication (Mac and PC). The user interfac (Mac and PC). The user interface allows e allows for storing and recall of factory for storing and recall of factory and user and user presets taking into account THX presets taking into account THX and Dolby and Dolby recommendations, reference l recommendations, reference levels, LFE evels, LFE sensitivity, and so on. sensitivity, and so on. AIR Soft This MAC and PC This MAC and PC compatible remote compatible remote compatible remote compatible remote application allows central application allows central real-time control of AIR real-time control of AIR system parameters such as system parameters such as system parameters such as system parameters such as volume control, reference volume control, reference volume control, reference volume control, reference level, presets, and setup. AIR S level, presets, and setup. AIR Soft is included oft is included oft is included oft is included with all AIR monitors. with all AIR monitors. AIR Remote AIR Remote AIR Remote provides instant acc AIR Remote provides instant acc AIR Remote provides instant access to the AIR system volume, independent AIR system volume, independent of your DAW or computer. of your DAW or computer. Additionally, AIR Remote Additionally, AIR Remote features one-touch features one-touch + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + features one-touch + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + operation of system operation of system + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + operation of system + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + operation of system + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + reference levels, preset reference levels, preset reference levels, preset + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + reference levels, preset + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + recall, and solo/mute recall, and solo/mute Decoding The DNA Of Sound recall, and solo/mute Decoding The DNA Of Sound status for each monitor. Decoding The DNA Of Sound status for each monitor. Decoding The DNA Of Sound Decoding The DNA Of Sound status for each monitor. Decoding The DNA Of Sound tracking, as well as calibrated loudness for any AIR setup. The AIR remote is powered through TC-Link of any AIR monitor. AIR PC-IP The optional PC compatible advanced Installer’s Package provides access to virtually any AIR system parameter. This includes 4-band parametric EQ in each monitor, placement del EQ in each monitor, placement delay, preset control and more. PC-IP access to control and more. PC-IP access to advanced advanced bass management features indepen bass management features indepen bass management features independent HP/ dent HP/ LP crossover frequencies as well as phase l as phase l as phase l as phase and polarity control of any AIR subwoofer. bwoofer. Additionally, PC-IP allows the installer staller to control system access via individu to control system access via individual parameter securing, preset protection, tection, and UI locking. THX Certifi ed AIR monitor systems are AIR monitor systems are AIR monitor systems are + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + AIR monitor systems are + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + THX certifi ed for use in THX certifi ed for use in THX certifi ed for use in THX certifi ed for use in + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + THX certifi ed for use in + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + THX certifi ed for use in + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + PM3 rooms. + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + Decoding The DNA Of Sound + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + AIR 12 Powerful Two-Way Nearfi eld Powerful Two-Way Nearfi eld Speaker – 8” Woofer And 1.1” Soft Dome Woofer And 1.1” Soft Dome Tweeter The latest addition to the AIR The latest addition to the AIR The latest addition to the AIR The latest addition to the AIR family. AIR12 family. AIR12 suits all sizes of control suits all sizes of control suits all sizes of control room and OB vans, and room and OB vans, and room and OB vans, and room and OB vans, and its high precision amp/ its high precision amp/ driver system (+/- 0.2 driver system (+/- 0.2 dB accuracy) ensures dB accuracy) ensures complete consistency with complete consistency with the entire AIR family in a var the entire AIR family in a variety of stereo and 5.1 setups – remote contr and 5.1 setups – remote controllable via the AIR Remote or the includ the AIR Remote or the includ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + the AIR Remote or the includ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + ed Air Soft application. DSP room adapti + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + application. DSP room adapti + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + application. DSP room adapti application. DSP room adapti + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + application. DSP room adapti + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + on allows for + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + on allows for + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + perfect customisation for any perfect customisation for any + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + perfect customisation for any + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + perfect customisation for any room construction and its int room construction and its int room construction and its int room construction and its inter- monitor level calibration featur Decoding The DNA Of Sound monitor level calibration featur Decoding The DNA Of Sound monitor level calibration featur monitor level calibration featur monitor level calibration feature Decoding The DNA Of Sound e Decoding The DNA Of Sound ensures consistent levels in Decoding The DNA Of Sound ensures consistent levels in Decoding The DNA Of Sound ensures consistent levels in ensures consistent levels in ensures consistent levels in Decoding The DNA Of Sound all Decoding The DNA Of Sound sessions. sessions. + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + Decoding The DNA Of Sound + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + or computer crashes. It also offers digital inputs, iCheck (to check audio compression), and calibrated listening for headphones and active speakers. BMC-2: your pro DAC and monitor control! + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + Decoding The DNA Of Sound Decoding The DNA Of Sound + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + KLEIN + HUMMEL+ + + + + + + + techno-physical+ + + + techno-physical+ + + + techno-physi Getting Techno-Physical majority of users of microphones have very little engineering background and are far more familiar with the world of art, this should not be surprising. They have no other guidelines to follow. Art and emotion do, without question, have a central position within music but, equally, the key to the successful recording of it is a technical understanding of the devices that need to be used. Trying to muddle up both approaches in some haphazard fashion is no help either. That leads to quaint notions, such as that tube (valve) microphones give ‘a warm on one will skew judgements in favour of it. Such experimental pernicketiness has to be refined even to the extent of intentionally adding a small imbalance of levels but on a reciprocal basis where, say, microphones e on attitudes to micropho rt, or the mind? +++HORCH AUDIO +++HORCH AUDIO THE INTERNATIONAL BUYER’S GUIDE A SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL PUBLICATION FROM THE NEWBAY MEDIA GROUP AUDIOMEDIA AUDIO-FOR-VIDEO • BROADCAST • INTERNET AUDIO • LIVE SOUND • MULTIMEDIA • POST PRODUCTION • RECORDING THE WORLD’S LEADING PROFESSIONAL AUDIO TECHNOLOGY MAGAZINE RECORDERS 2012 AUDIO MEDIA PRODUCED BY In association with: INTERNATIONAL EDITION 01-recorders-buyers-cover-2012.indd 1 21/11/2011 17:10 +++HORCH AUDIO +++HORCH AUDIO + + + + HORCH AUDIO+ + + + HORCH AUDIO+ + + + HORCH AUDIO+ + + + HORCH AUDIO+ + + + HORCH AUDIO+ + + + AUDIO TECHNICA + + + + HORCH AUDIO+ + + + HORCH AUDIO+ + + + HORCH AUDIO+ + + + HORCH AUDIO+ + + + HORCH AUDIO+ + + + AUDIO TECHNICA + + + + HORCH AUDIO+ + + + HORCH AUDIO+ + + + HORCH AUDIO+ + + + HORCH AUDIO+ + + + HORCH AUDIO+ + + + AUDIO TECHNICA The Sound Of Emotion: Horch Horch was established in the 1990s by a small team of dedicated audio experts, whose vision was to create a microphone able to convey emotion through sound. All Horchs are large-diaphragm tube microphones. +++HORCH AUDIO +++HORCH AUDIO The Sound Of Emotion: Horch tube microphones. THE INTERNATIONAL BUYER’S GUIDE A SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL PUBLICATION FROM THE NEWBAY MEDIA GROUP AUDIOMEDIA AUDIO-FOR-VIDEO • BROADCAST • INTERNET AUDIO • LIVE SOUND • MULTIMEDIA • POST PRODUCTION • RECORDING THE WORLD’S LEADING PROFESSIONAL AUDIO TECHNOLOGY MAGAZINE AUDIO CONSOLES 2012 AUDIO MEDIA PRODUCED BY In association with: INTERNATIONAL EDITION + + + + FOSTEX+ + + + FOSTEX+ + + + FOSTEX+ + + + FOSTEX+ + + + + + + FOSTEX+ + + + FOSTEX+ + + + FOSTEX+ + + + FOSTEX+ + + + + + + FOSTEX+ + + + FOSTEX+ + + + FOSTEX+ + + + FOSTEX+ + + THE INTERNATIONAL BUYER’S GUIDE A SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL PUBLICATION FROM THE NEWBAY MEDIA GROUP AUDIOMEDIA AUDIO-FOR-VIDEO • BROADCAST • INTERNET AUDIO • LIVE SOUND • MULTIMEDIA • POST PRODUCTION • RECORDING THE WORLD’S LEADING PROFESSIONAL AUDIO TECHNOLOGY MAGAZINE In association with: AUDIO MEDIA PRODUCED BY LIVE SOUND APPLICATION 2012 + + + + + + DYNAUDIO ACOUSTICS+ + + + DYNAUDIO ACOUS + + + + DYNAUDIO ACOUS + + + + DYNAUDIO ACOUS + + + + DYNAUDIO ACOUSTICS+ + + + DYNAUDIO ACOUSTICS+ + + + TICS+ + + + DYNAUDIO ACOUSTICS+ + + + The Truth, The Whole Truth, The Truth, The Whole Truth, The Truth, The Whole Truth, And Nothing But... And Nothing But... Superior Tools For Critical Mo Superior Tools For Critical Monitoring In fi lm, post, gaming, broadcast, a In fi lm, post, gaming, broadcast, and music productions, consistency, predict productions, consistency, predictability, and reliability are key. Add to this netw reliability are key. Add to this networkability and central control, and you’ll kn and central control, and you’ll know why studios throughout the world studios throughout the world rely on Dynaudio Acoustics technolo Dynaudio Acoustics technology. Choosing Dynaudio Acoustics, yo Choosing Dynaudio Acoustics, you not only get 20 years of innovative only get 20 years of innovative speaker and driver technology thinking. You and driver technology thinking. You also get integrated TC Electronic digital signal support this. Contact your dealer or support this. Contact your dealer or support this. Contact your dealer or our representative in your country representative in your country to arrange to arrange a demo. a demo. Bear in mind though, that an AIR Sys Bear in mind though, that an AIR Sys Bear in mind though, that an AIR System is not really comparable to conv is not really comparable to conventional entional monitors. On top of ultimate precis monitors. On top of ultimate precis monitors. On top of ultimate precision and sou
Headphones In the world of audio, what could possibly be more important than listening? There are plenty of times when that listening will be done via headphones, so it is important to get the right ones. This is a category that is expanding at a rate of knots, and there are plenty of options to consider. Closed, open, glitzy, woodveneered – Tech Focus this month looks at the increasingly varied headphone selection available to those who want to listen well. 1 3 [1] Headphones with a celebrity link can be a bit gimmicky, but the AKG by Tiesto range consists of three very high-performance, professional-grade headphones, designed to appeal to a broad range of users. “AKG is rooted in the passion for music at the same time as having a unique eye for design and style,” said the Dutch DJ and producer. “Together we’ve created a line of headphones that are perfect for those who want the best quality of sound, but don’t wish to compromise on style.” The flagship of the range, the K267 TIESTO has an over-ear, closedback design, with an oversized low resonance driver providing a higher SPL, while still maintaining a matched low frequency bass response. It has a user-adjustable bass boost, to keep sound neutral or maximise deeper sub-bass frequencies when prompted. The Dual Plug-In feature allows the user to attach the cable to either side, and each set has 3D-Axis folding mechanisms for optimum fitting and flat storage. It’s not all celebrity-endorsed products at AKG, of course – there’s a wide range of headphones to choose from. The K 702 are pitched as the “new reference for open-back dynamic AKG headphones.” Using flat-wire voice coils and a patented Varimotion two-layer diaphragm, they combine an extremely accurate response with excellent agility and spaciousness. The design is totally open and they have specially shaped 3D-form ear pads and a padded leather headband, and each one is individually tested and numbered. www.akg.com [2] Sennheiser has a variety of headphones to choose from. The HD280 PRO are closedback circumaural headphones, designed for professional monitoring applications. The 32dB attenuation of external noise makes them particularly useful for use in a high-noise environment, particularly good for guitarists and drummers who need excellent isolation, and also for vocalists who don’t want the headphone mix to bleed into their vocal mic. The relatively flat frequency response makes for accurate EQ adjustments. They have swivelling earpieces so single-ear monitoring is possible, and a folding design. Or you might go for the HD 380; collapsible high-end headphones with a closed circumaural design which, according to Sennheiser, provides “excellent 2 passive attenuation of ambient noise.” They utilise Sennheiser’s Eargonomic Acoustic Refinement (E.A.R) design, which channels the audio signal directly into the user’s ears. The headphones provide an extended frequency response with increased sound pressure level – up to 110dB – for accurate sound reproduction in all kinds of situations. The lightweight design means they are comfortable for long periods of use. Another design is the closed-back HD-25-1s, also offering a high attenuation of background noise, and capable of handling very high sound pressure levels. Purposedesigned for professional monitoring, Sennheiser suggests these as ideal monitoring headphones for cameramen, and their robust construction – including a tough, detachable steel cable, allows them to cope with challenging conditions. The headband splits in two to allow adjustment to your particular head shape. The capsule is rotatable for one-ear monitoring. www.sennheiser.co.uk [3] The PRO 900 is Ultrasone’s ‘reference headphone’ for the professional sector; the company’s first closed-back In-Ear Monitors There are quite a few applications that in-ear headphones can be used for, whether monitoring a recording mix or to allow a musician on stage to hear themselves. Just like regular headphones, there are a variety of different types, shapes, finishes and fancy doo dahs to differentiate between them. And like regular headphones, you will probably want to listen and try them out for yourself. Here’s a selection to get you started. [1] The Earsonics EM6 is based on the EM4, which is mostly used for critical listening, but adapted for live sound. Earsonics say that it has a rigorous spectral balance, and has a ‘musicality never achieved before in an in-ear, with deep and clean lows, an Earsonics touch medium and treble with incredible sharpness’. There are six balanced armature drivers with a three way passive crossover which gives a long frequency response. www.earsonics.com [2] Futuresonics offer a range of completely custom made made earphones. The mg6pro 13mm Ear Monitors feature 13mm proprietary miniature miniature dynamic transducers. transducers. The The mg6pro are multi-driver and crossover free, and deliver deliver ‘full range audio with natural high end sparkle, warm mids and a low-end frequency no two, three, four or more way balanced armature earpiece can touch’. Futuresonics offer a ‘Bigger Sound at Lower Volume promise’, and the earphones have a 18Hz-20kHz TrueTimbre response. www.futuresonics.com [3] JH <strong>Audio</strong> claims to offer the world’s first custom in-ear monitor with eight drivers per ear. The JH16 has double dual low-frequency drivers which offer lower distortion, increased headroom and greater detail and accuracy. They also say they are the only company offering dual-driver technology across the entire frequency range. The JH16 offers -26dB of isolation, eliminating stage volume and ambient noise. The earphones are based on custom ear moulds made for the individual users ears. www.jhaudio.com [4] The UM3X RC is Westone’s top of the line universal-fit in-ear musicians’ monitor. Each one is handcrafted in Colorado Springs and features threedriver balanced armature technology – using one bass, one mid-range and one high frequency driver for dynamic sound reproduction. It also offers a three-way crossover, which splits the audio signal into separate frequency bands that can be routed to each micro driver. Each driver is optimised for a particular frequency range. www.westone.com [5] Ultimate Ears takes customisation to another level with its Personal Reference Monitors. Each pair not only has personally moulded shells, faced in a choice of fine wood veneers, but they are also personally tuned. Each set is audiomedia.com | November 2012 43
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