TL Audio 5021 - Manual (Page 20)

The optional DO-2 digital output will allow a stereo high quality A/D conversion
at 24-bit from the 5021 on a coaxial SPDIF output. The DO-2 can feed directly
into digital recorders such as Digital Multitrackers, Hard Disk Recorders, DAT
Recorders, Minidisk and CD-Recorders, bypassing any A-D conversion stages
on the way. When connecting the DO-2’s SPDIF output it is advisable to use
cables less than 5 metres in length and of high quality. The digital output can
be used simultaneously with the 5021’s analogue outputs.
5.2 In Use.
Having connected the 5021 - checking that the operating level switch is at the
most suitable setting (see section 3.2) - it’s time to put it into action! Here’s a
simple step-by-step guide:
1. The first stage is to set up the gains of the 5021. With the compressor
stage switched out, start with the input and output levels at 0dB.
2. With the 5021 meters set to read the output level, adjust the 5021 input
levels so that the Drive LED starts to illuminate, and then adjust the
5021 output levels to achieve a peak reading of around 0VU with the
chosen source material.
3. If more output is required the output level can be adjusted accordingly
without affecting the compression characteristics. Beneath the 5021
input level controls there is a red “Peak” LED. This illuminates to warn
that the signal is 5dB below clipping, and it monitors both the input
stage and the output stage. If the Peak LED is lit when the output level
and gain make-up are very low, this means the input level may be set
too high. Alternatively if the Peak LED lights up when the input level is
low, then the gain make-up or the output level control may be too high.
Illumination of the Peak LED is not necessarily a problem - it is merely a
warning that the levels are getting close to clipping.
4. Now depress the Compressor ‘On’ switch, and select the Meter switch
to read Gain Reduction.
5. Using the compressor’s controls you will need to adjust settings to suit
the instrument you are listening to. A good starting point is set the
Attack and Release to ‘Fast’, Ratio to 1:3, Knee to ‘Soft’, and Threshold
to +20dB.
6. As you start turning the Threshold control clockwise towards 0dB, the
meter should now register that some gain reduction is taking place. Aim
to get around a maximum 3-4dB of gain reduction occurring as a
starting point, by lowering the Threshold further if necessary. You
should also notice that increasing the Ratio setting causes more gain
reduction to occur.