User manual TL AUDIO 5001 MK-2

[. . . ] A variable intensity yellow "Drive" LED monitors the input to the triode circuit to indicate the degree of valve "warming" that is being introduced. Four red LEDs show peak levels and are calibrated for +8dB, +12dB, +16dB and +20dB of output, making them ideal for monitoring levels into a digital recorder. The output level control allows gain matching to other integrated equipment (e. g. The combination of input and output gain controls allows a degree of variation in the sound characteristics based on the operating level through the valve stages. [. . . ] 4. 2 Microphone Inputs. The 4 XLR mic inputs are at the rear of the 5001. Condenser microphones will require the 48V phantom power to be engaged for correct operation, but before using Dynamic and Ribbon microphones ensure that the phantom power is switched off. 4. 3 30dB Pad Switch. Occasionally - when using sensitive condenser microphones - the source signal may be too loud for the input preamp. In this situation, to avoid any overloading or distortion of the mic preamp stage, the 30dB pad can be used to reduce the input gain to a more manageable level. 4. 4 Phantom Power. Phantom power may be applied to the microphone socket by depressing the +48V switch. Do not attempt to connect any microphone that does not require phantom power, or any other equipment such as a DI box, to an input socket that has phantom power switched on, as damage may result. CAUTION: Never switch phantom power on or off, or plug / unplug a microphone with phantom power applied unless the output level control is turned down. Failure to do so may result in a thump in your monitor loudspeakers or PA system. 4. 5 Input Gain. The gain of the mic preamp stage is variable from +16 to +60dB. This is a very wide range, to cater for all types of microphone and recording situations, but care must be taken not to apply large, sudden changes in gain which may result in unexpectedly large output signals. It is quite normal to have to apply larger amounts of gain for less sensitive microphones, such as dynamic types, and similarly apply much less input gain for high output condenser mics: some of which may even need the 30dB pad activated when recording very loud sources. 4. 6 Drive and Peak LEDs. The yellow Drive LED provides a visual indication of the signal level through the valve stages, and therefore the extent of "warming" or valve character being introduced. The drive LED will gradually illuminate as the input level or gain is increased, over the range 0dB to +12dB: this should be accompanied by a `thickening' and `warming' of the audio signal, as more harmonic distortion is introduced. The red signal LEDs operate as a visual indication of output level, and are calibrated at +8dB, +12dB, +16dB and +20dB respectively, making them suitable for monitoring high level output signals such as those required to drive a digital recorder or soundcard. It is possible to cause the red LEDs to illuminate even if the Drive LED is not lit. This situation can occur if the input gain is relatively low but the output gain is relatively high. 4. 7 90Hz Filter. The high pass filter switch restricts the low frequency response of the preamp, to effectively remove rumble or LF noise from the signal. The filter can be useful in restricting "popping" on vocals or even low frequencies caused by contact with microphone stands or microphone cables. Popping is an undesirable thump that is caused by close-miking certain spoken or sung letters, namely "P" or "B". These particular letters cause a sudden expulsion of air that can result in an audible thump. As this thump has a lot of low frequency content the high pass filter can help to reduce the problem, as can using a pop filter (a device usually made out of nylon material similar to stockings) suspended in front of the microphone. 4. 8 Phase Reverse. The phase reverse switch allows correction of a phase error, which may have occurred in microphone wiring or placement. Phase errors can be due to two microphones picking up the same signal at the same time. [. . . ] Please retain the original packing for possible future use, and ensure the unit is suitably protected during transit. The manufacturer cannot accept responsibility for damage caused during transportation. The 5001 is supported by a limited warranty for a period of one year from the date of purchase. During this period, any faults due to defective materials or workmanship will be repaired free of charge. [. . . ]