to give the proper balance or desired mixing of the signals coming into the console. They-are also set to
give the correct overall amount of output signal.
g. The console incorporates a VU meter, which is used to monitor the signal level out to the line
and the external monitor. When you are using the mixer controls, the VU meter is very important for
adjusting and maintaining the correct level out (fig 1-1).
(1) The headset monitor (not shown on the block diagram fig 1-1) is also used for adjusting
balance; however, since the operator's sense of volume is not good enough to set the level out, the VU
meter is needed.
(2) The various speaker connections also serve as monitors in the control room at remote
locations and other miscellaneous installations. Like a headset, the speaker serves to give you an idea of
the output level, but is not exact enough when adjusting for the correct level while monitoring tapes or
live programs. We should mention that some of the control consoles have selective scale adjustments
for the meters, whereas others require modification for the pad circuit to change the meter scale.
h. Again looking at Figure 1-1, you see there are a number of possible signal paths. In this
diagram (fig 1-1), there are a total of six inputs and three outputs. Remember, this is a simple setup.
There are many more inputs and outputs in the more elaborate setups that have talkback circuits
incorporated for classroom work.
(1) In the diagram illustrated (fig 1-1), start with microphone No. 1, trace a signal path
through the preamplifier, level selector switch (program P position), program amplifier, VU meter, line
out pad or extension monitor pad to the output. If switch S1was in the PGM position, the output from
the program amplifier would also be coupled to the monitor amplifier and the control room speaker
terminal.
(2) As shown in the diagram (fig 1-1), all of the input signals can be connected to the
program amplifier and monitor amplifier at one time. Let us suppose you have a studio program that
requires the use of all the microphones and also requires specific sound effects which are recorded on
tape. In this case, you must use the cue position; a signal is fed to the monitor amplifier. At the right
moment, you use the selector switch to send the signal to the program line. Thus the tape input is mixed
into and becomes part of the program.
Learning Event 2:
DESCRIBE AND IDENTIFY THE PERFORMANCE ADJUSTMENTS REQUIRED TO PERFORM
OPERATOR'S MAINTENANCE OF AN AUDIO CONSOLE
1.
Performance adjustments. Three types of adjustments of primary concern are (1) elimination of
hum in the circuits, (2) prevention of erratic action from switch contacts, and (3) accurate control of
output.
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