Behringer MDX1400 Musical Instrument User Manual


 
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1. INTRODUCTION
In purchasing the new AUTOCOM PRO Model MDX1400, you have acquired an extremely efficient and univer-
sal dynamics processor, which combines the most commonly used dynamic functions within a compact
stereo unit: every channel has its own independent Compressor/Limiter, an Expander/Gate and a Dynamic
Enhancer. The precision and flexibility of the functions are the main outstanding features of this high end unit.
Despite the extremely complex internal circuitry, the unit has a control surface which is clearly laid out and
easy to understand. The internal design of the unit, together with its external side-chain path, gives the user all
the creative flexibility when processing sound.
Advanced Behringer Technology
Compared to its predecessors, the AUTOCOM PRO offers several advanced features such as the extended
LED meters, balanced inputs and outputs, a couple function for the two channels and the sidechain filter.
Additionally, we have succeeded in refining the audio properties as well as the circuit topology.
For the first time, the AUTOCOM PRO MDX1400 uses SMD technology (Surface Mounted Device). These sub-
miniature components known from aerospace technology allow for an extreme packing density, plus improve
the units reliability.
IKA (Interactive Knee Adaptation) Compressor
Our proven IKA (Interactive Knee Adaptation) circuit successfully combines the concept of a hard knee
compressor with the characteristics of a soft knee approach. This program-dependent regulation scheme
forms the prerequisite both for inaudible and musical program compression and for creative and highly effec-
tive dynamics processing.
With its IKA circuit the AUTOCOM PRO is capable of delivering outstanding musical results both in studio and
live P.A. applications.
Additionally, the AUTOCOM PROs side-chain filter allows for limiting the influence low-frequency signal por-
tions usually have on the control logic, so that the compression ratio is mainly determined by those frequen-
cies that are essential to the loudness perceived by the listener - the midrange frequencies.
IRC (Interactive Ratio Control) Expander
A basic problem in the use of a compressor is the fact that the noise floor is highly amplified during quiet
sections or when there are music pauses. This effect is exaggerated when the compression ratio is inappropri-
ate. In order to eliminate this problem, one would normally use an additional expander or gate. The noise is
then simply faded out in the quiet sections. However, simple expanders, even when they are used correctly,
drastically cut signals below the preset threshold. This effect becomes more noticeable during the transition
from signal to noise floor. This can mean, that the start or end of words can be cut on a vocal track.
A newly developed IRC (Interactive Ratio Control) Expander has been integrated into the AUTOCOM PRO the
ratio of which, is automatically adjusted, depending on the program material. The result is an expander which
is less critical of adjustment and which is more tolerant in the presence of those signals which appear slightly
above the noise floor. Because of its new IRC circuit design, the Behringer AUTOCOM PROs Expander/Gate
section can be used as an independent unit to eradicate noise offering almost limitless possibilities within this
application.
The Behringer Dynamic Enhancer
One of the most common negative effects of broadband compressors is the dulled or squashed sound that
is produced when it is applied to composite music, since high-energy low frequency instruments cause a
compressor to reduce the overall gain. Any high frequency instrument which occurs at the same time will also
be reduced in level. This spectral intermodulation causes the squashed sound effect.
The solution to this problem is the new AUTOCOM PROs Dynamic Enhancer which allows for selective
replacement of high-end loss accrued through use of compression. Since the Enhancer tracks the amount of
compression, enhancement will not be added when no compression throughout the mix without any additional
outboard enhancer etc.
1.INTRODUCTION