TL Audio 5051 - Manual (Page 21)

multitrack recorder (thus bypassing the console) is a common technique these
days as it keeps the signal path short, and of the highest quality. No
unnecessary console stages are passed through, thus maintaining quality.
Many mixers have sockets called ‘insert points’, which allow processors such
as dynamics devices and EQs to be patched in-line into the mixer signal path
at various points. The mixer’s channel insert point usually ‘sends’ the input
signal out directly after the mixers preamp stage- allowing connection to the
line input of the 5051 - and then returns the processed signal from the line
output of the 5051 back into the mixer at the same point in the signal path.
This is commonly achieved using a special insert cable (sometimes known as
a ‘Y’ lead or split lead usually a stereo 0.25” jack connector at one end split
into two mono jack or XLR connectors – one for send and one for return). The
most likely positions that insert points are located on a mixer are in the
channel, group and stereo master sections. Patching the 5051 into the
channel insert point means that any signal passing through that channel will
pass directly though the 5051. Compressing an off-tape signal on mixdown, for
instance, can be achieved by connecting the tape machine to the mixer tape
returns, then connecting the 5051 into the relevant console channel insert
point. The off-tape signal will then be fed into the 5051’s line input via the
mixer insert ‘send’ connection. The line output of the 5051 connects back to
the insert ‘return’ connection, thus returning the processed signal to the mixer
and ensuring continuous signal flow.
Group insert points are used to process sub-grouped signals such as drums or
backing vocals. It’s possible to mix a group of voices or instruments to a single
group, and then use that group fader to control the overall level, rather than
having to adjust each individual voice or instrument level. If you then wish to
compress the overall group signal, you can connect a 5051 to the relevant
group insert point, using the same ‘send and return’ technique as the channel
insert.
The optional digital output will allow high quality 24-bit A/D conversion of the
5051 mono output on a coaxial SPDIF connector. 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 5051’s analogue output.
5.2 In
Use.
Having connected the 5051, it’s time to put it into action! Here’s a simple step
by step guide:
1. We’ll assume that a condenser microphone is connected to the 5051
mic input, and the +48V phantom power is engaged. The first stage is
then to set up the gains of the 5051. With the compressor, EQ and gate