DX 38 Digital Sound System Controller

DX 38 Digital Sound System Controller
- with the unique RACE software
With a dynamic range in excess of 115 dB, multiple filter functions and the unique RACE (Real-time Acoustic Cluster Editor)
Software, EV is setting new standards with the Dx38
digital sound system processor.
Versatile Applications
With it’s 2-in, 4-out architecture, the Dx38
works perfectly as a system controller for
multi-way loudspeaker arrays. And, due to
its flexibility (sum of input A&B as virtual
third input) also for signal distribution in
larger sound systems with delay lines.
With PC via RS-232, MIDI, or optional
RS485 interfaces, as many as 31 units,
up to 1200 meters away, can be controlled
via one central PC.
Clearly arranged configuration
This page allows the user to name the output with the connected speaker. There is also some room for additional information
and deeper pages allow access to filter and delay settings.
The optional contact closure interface
allows for remote switching of presets
or muting. The Dx38 has 50 factory
presets for EV speaker systems and
can store another 30 user presets.
The Dx38 is always shipped with latest
version of RACE Software.Try it yourselfRACE is available as a free download
at www.electro-voice.de.
Easy Operation
Documentation
To save a set-up and have a base for further
updates, it’s possible to print out full documentation of up to seven pages. Besides the listing of all
parameters, all filter and frequency responses for
relevant EV speakers are also printed.
No computer in sight? The Dx38 is also
easy to operate without the use of a pc.
A clearly arranged graphic display helps
in editing all parameters. Four LEDs monitor
the status of each output (Sub, Low, Mid,
Hi, or any combination) for
quick assignment of outputs.
The output level control
pots are push pots to get
dedicated output information
directly on the display for editing. It’s also possible
to lock the Dx38 against unwanted usage.
D x 3 8 T H E N E W S TA N D A R D I N D I G I TA L S O U N D P R O C E S S I N G
Rear View
Specifications
ac voltage
power consumption
safety class
inputs
nominal input voltage
max. input voltage
input impedance
common-mode rejection
A/D conversion
outputs
nominal output voltage
max. output voltage
output impedance
min. load impedance
D/A conversion
frequency response
S/N ratio
THD without transformer
THD with transformer
crossover
EQ filters
compressors
limiters
MIDI in/out/thru
delay
data format
sample rate
display
dimensions
weight
protection function
accessories supplied
accessories optional
90-250 V ac / 50-60 Hz
30 W maximum
VDE/IEC Class I
2 x XLR in, electronically balanced, transformers optional
2 x XLR OUT (Direct Out)
1.55 V (+6 dBu)
24.5 V (+30 dBu)
20 kΩ
>40 dB (1 kHz)
24-bit, 128-times oversampled, linear phase
4 x XLR out, electronically balanced
1.55 V (+6 dBu)
8.7 V (+21 dBu)
<100 Ω
600 Ω
24-bit, 128-times oversampled, linear phase
20 Hz - 20 kHz (-0.5 dB)
>115 dB (typical)
<0.01% (1 kHz)
<0.05% (1 kHz)
independently adjustable high- and low-pass filters
with Butterworth and Linkwitz-Riley 12- and 24-dB-per-octave slopes
and Bessel 6-, 12-, 18- and 24dB-per-octave slopes
five filters on each input, four filters on each output:
parametric eq (20Hz-20kHz, Q 0.4 - 20.0, +/- 12dB)
low shelf (20 - 20kHz, 6/12dB slope, +/-12dB) and hi shelf (6dB slope, +/-12dB)
high and low pass (6/12dB slope Q 0.4 - 2.0)
all pass (outputs only)
one on each output, with adjustable threshold, compression ratio,
and attack/release times
one on each output, with adjustable threshold and release time
data dump, master / slave operation, remote control
3 master delays (2 ms - 900 ms)
4 channel delays (0 ms - 900 ms)
delay increment 21 µsec
24-bit linear AD-/DA conversion, 48-bit processing
48 kHz
122 x 32 dots, graphic LC display with LED backlight
43.6 mm (1.72 in.) x 483 mm (19.0 in.) x 375 mm (14.8 in.) hwd
5 kg (11 lbs)
password lock
RACE software (also free download from www.electro-voice.de)
NRS 90243 RS-232 interface (installed)
NRS 90247 RS-485 interface, DCN485 RS-232 to RS-485 converter
NRS 90246 contact-closure interface
NRS 90244 input transformer
Subject to change without prior notice.
Art.#162095
USA
Telex Communications Inc., 12000 Portland Ave. South, Burnsville, MN 55337, Phone: +1 952-884-4051, FAX: +1 952-884-0043
Germany
Telex EVI Audio, Hirschberger Ring 45, D 94315, Straubing, Germany, Phone: 49 9421-706 0, FAX: 49 9421-706 265
U.K.
Shuttle Sound Ltd., The Willows Centre, Willow Lane, Mitcham CR44NX, Surrey • Phone: +44 20 864 671 14, FAX: +44 20 864 075 83
France
EVI France S. A., Parc de Courcerin, Allee Lech Walesa, Lognes, f-77185 Marne La Vallee, France, Phone: 33/1-6480-0090, FAX: 33/1-6006-5103
Australia
EVI Audio (Austl.), Unit 23, Block C, Slough Business Estate, Silverwater N.S.W. 2128, Australia, Phone: 61/2-9648-3455, FAX: 61/2-9648-5585
Hong Kong
EVI Audio Limited, Unit E & F, 21/F, Luk Hop Industrial Bldg., 8 Luk Hop St., San Po Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, Phone: 852-2351-3628, FAX: 852-2351-3329
Japan
EVI Audio Japan, Ltd.,5-3-8 Funabashi, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, 156-0055 Japan, Phone: 81-3-5316-5020, FAX: 81-3-5316-5031
Singapore
Telex Communications, 3015A Ubi Rd 1, 05-10, Kampong Ubi Industrial Estate, Singapore 408705, Phone: 65-746-8760, FAX: 65-746-1206
Africa Mid-East Telex EVI Audio, Hirschberger Ring 45, D 94302, Straubing, Germany, Phone: 49 9421-706 0, FAX: 49 9421-706 265
Latin America Telex Communications Inc., 12000 Portland Ave. South, Burnsville, MN 55337, Phone: +1 507 526 3205, FAX: +1 507 526 3059
TELEX EVI Audio GmbH • Hirschberger Ring 45 • 94315 Straubing • Germany
Tel: +49 (0) 9421/706-0 • Fax: +49 (0) 9421/706 265
www.electro-voice.de
english
Dx38 THE NEW STANDARD IN DIGITAL SOUND PROCESSING
With a dynamic range in excess of 115 dB, multiple filter functions and the unique RACE
(Real-time Acoustic Cluster Editor) Software, EV is setting new standards with the Dx38 digital
sound system processor.
Signal Flow Diagram
The signal flow diagram provides a clear overview of all available parameters. Immediately after the input metering there are
five master equalizers per input available. Each of these filters
can be set as hi- or lo-pass (6dB/12dB-Peaking), hi- or
lo-shelf (6/12dB) or as a fully parametric eq. Each activated
filter is signaled by a green LED symbol.
Each input, or the sum of both inputs, can be delayed separately up to 900ms with the master delay. The fully flexible routing allows each input as well as the sum to be routed to any
of the four outputs. Four filters per output are available with
same filter functions as the master eq. In addition, an all-pass
filter for phase corrections can be selected. The x-over section provides a hi- and a lo-pass-filter per channel and an
output delay for alignment. The dynamics sections with independent compressor and limiter can be used for speaker
protection.
The output meter display works like the whole editor in real-time. Level control and mute are available per channel.
All of these parameters on the Dx38 can easily be edited via the front control panel without using a pc. Once you try
RACE however, you may never want to work without it!
Applications
Signal matrix
“3 in 8”
(MONO)
(LEFT) (MONO)
(MONO)
HI MID LOSUB 1 MONO MIX L
DELAY 2 SIDEFILL MIX R MIX L
PATENTED 3840551
PATENTED 3840551
MADE IN GERMANY
MADE IN GERMANY
BUCHANAN, MICHIGAN
BUCHANAN, MICHIGAN
FUSE
T 0.8 A
250 V
90-250 V ac, 50-60 Hz 30 W
1RU
N378
OUT
THRU
MIDI
170086
IN
OUT 4
OUT 3
OUT 2
OUT 1
IN 2
RIGHT
IN 1
LEFT/ MONO
FUSE
T 0.8 A
250 V
90-250 V ac, 50-60 Hz 30 W
OUT
N378
THRU
MIDI
170086
IN
OUT 4
OUT 3
OUT 2
OUT 1
IN 2
RIGHT
IN 1
LEFT/ MONO
2RU
DELAY 1 NEARFILL
(MONO)
PATENTED 3840551
(MONO)
FUSE
T 0.8 A
250 V
90-250 V ac, 50-60 Hz 30 W
OUT
N378
OUT 4
PATENTED 3840551
THRU
MIDI
170086
OUT 3
OUT 2
OUT 1
IN 2
RIGHT
IN 1
LEFT/ MONO
MIX R
Stereo 2-way
MADE IN GERMANY
IN
OUT 4
OUT 2
(RIGHT) (MONO)
MIX L
BUCHANAN, MICHIGAN
OUT
OUT 3
HI MID LO SUB 2
(LEFT)
HI MID LO SUB
N378
170086
IN
THRU
MIDI
Stereo 4-way
FUSE
T 0.8 A
250 V
90-250 V ac, 50-60 Hz 30 W
MADE IN GERMANY
BUCHANAN, MICHIGAN
OUT 1
IN 2
RIGHT
(RIGHT)
IN 1
LEFT/ MONO
(LEFT)
HI LO HI
LO
MIX R MIX L
2RU
PATENTED 3840551
MADE IN GERMANY
PATENTED 3840551
BUCHANAN, MICHIGAN
MADE IN GERMANY
BUCHANAN, MICHIGAN
FUSE
T 0.8 A
250 V
90-250 V ac, 50-60 Hz 30 W
N378
OUT
THRU
MIDI
170086
IN
OUT 4
OUT 3
OUT 2
OUT 1
HI MID LOWSUB
(RIGHT)
IN 2
RIGHT
IN 1
LEFT/ MONO
MIX R
FUSE
T 0.8 A
250 V
90-250 V ac, 50-60 Hz 30 W
1RU
N378
OUT
THRU
MIDI
170086
IN
OUT 4
OUT 3
OUT 2
OUT 1
IN 2
RIGHT
IN 1
LEFT/ MONO
RACE Real-time Acoustic Cluster Editor
In order to display the acoustical response of the complete
system, the acoustical data of each speaker component
(phase and magnitude) is assigned to the appropriate output.
The data is measured in a free field. All influences of filter
functions, levels and delay settings are then calculated.
Thus RACE displays the acoustical response of a speaker
system including all parameters used on the Dx38, but without
any room influence – in real-time. This display is exclusive for
EV speaker systems and helps to determine how to optimized
the use of all digital parameter functions.
Example for a 4-way set-up with Xi-1183 (3-way) plus Xi-2181
(Sub). Clearly displayed are the filter functions of each output
Including the master and channel eq settings. The resolution
can be switched between ±12 dB, ±24 dB, or ±48 dB. It’s also
possible to change between frequency or phase response.
Outputs of non-relevant speakers for this system can be
removed from view. This example uses all four outputs.
This preset is slightly complex as it uses, in addition to
conventional x-overs, a wide overlap of Sub (Xi-2181)
and Lo (Xi-1183LF).
The complex summation of all filters, levels and delays results
in the viewed electrical transfer function of the Dx38. It’s quite
difficult to derive any idea of the sound quality on this graph.
However, adding the acoustical data of the raw components
and amplifiers to this file, the display shows the real acoustical
response caused by the actual parameter settings. Any change
of a parameter is visible and audible immediately. The big
advantage of this view is the independence of any room
influence.
RACE is an industry first and unique in that the software
shows the true frequency response of EV components in
real-time as they behave in a free field.
Step
Up
to
EV
is available
RACE software
nload at
w
do
as a free
oice.de
-v
tro
ec
el
www.
RACE Software (Real-time Acoustic Cluster Editor)
RACE is a professional audio tool to generate presets for speaker systems.
In addition to the clear display of all used filters, delay and level settings, each output can be
assigned with the acoustic data (phase and frequency response) of the individual speaker
component.
This pure speaker data has been measured in EV’s large anechoic chamber. RACE then
calculates the complex summation of all used filters, level and delay settings applied to these
components. Thus the display on the screen is not only the electrical filter response but, for
the first time, the actual true acoustic response of the component! Any change of parameter
values is visible and audible immediately.
An additional tool is the SPL dispersion window for lower frequencies. Presets can even be
prepared off-line in advance and need only a little tweaking once speakers are in place.
RACE enables engineers to seamlessly integrate room influence, speaker positioning and
parameter settings and a RACE Processed Preset is a guarantee for a solid, accurate basis from
which to begin system tuning. EV is supplying these presets for all current EV speaker systems,
even if the needed combination is not part of the 50-factory preset of the Dx38.
The acoustical response of Xi1183/64
plus Xi2181 (4-way) using the big
Bode-Plot. Any change of parameters like level, filter or delays is displayed immediately. Even very complex array settings can be tuned
simply and accurately.
Step
Up
to
EV
RACE 2.0 Network controls up to 124 Outputs
Using the optional RS-485 interface, RACE 2.0 allows control of even large and
complex speaker systems. This requires changing the factory installed RS-232
interface with an optional RS-485 board. The DCN485 converter (RS232 to
RS-485) works without additional power supply and is connected to the COMport of the PC, the output being an XLR connector.
DCN 485 Converter
Thus with conventional microphone cables, units can be controlled distances up
to 200 meters. With CAT-5 cabling, it’s possible to control distances up to 1200
meters. All parameters, including frequency response, input and output metering as well as thresholds for compressors and limiters are monitored in realtime. All of this offers you a complete, visual overview of up to 124 outputs.
RS-485 Interface
Controlling of the network – is so easy and intuitive...
...it`s as if all controllers are in a side rack
just at arm´s length away!
Flexible, easy to use and stable, RACE has been several years in development, benefiting from the input of many
audio professionals and sound engineers on the job. Messages inform the user on changes, making sure that a
change is made intentionally and not by accident. The screen for network control (RS-485) in this picture has 8 units
controlling 32 outputs. This can be set in two modes; the Live Mode shows all units including real-time metering for
inputs and outputs. Mute and level can be operated as on real units in a side-rack. All other functions like editing
parameters or changing presets are only available in the password protected Set-up mode.
Step
Up
to
EV
Placement - Help tool
for Speaker Positioning
As further help, RACE offers a placement
window to check for optimized speaker positioning.
All RACE speaker files are measured at the
center grille of the enclosure . In most cases
the sub cabinets are used on the floor while
the top cabinets are flying some distance
above the subs. This page helps to get a
better understanding of geometrically caused
acoustic effects. The „listeners head“ can be
moved on axis and the heard response in
this place will be displayed. In addition, SPL
distribution for frequencies below 150Hz
can be shown. This example is for 100Hz.
A typical example: A subwoofer has
been placed near the emergency exit
and needs to be moved. After first
moving the sub in the RACE Placement
window, RACE identifies the acoustic
”catastrophe” immediately.
There’s a big dip at about 100Hz, which is
experienced at the listening position. But
what is typically not audible is the lobing
towards the ceiling at about 45° - not heard
as direct SPL but definitely audible as 1st and
2nd order reflections, really ”muddying” up
the mix. Placement and lobing can then be fixed
accordingly via parameter changes- if the moved
sub is delayed properly, the response will again
be optimized for the listener and nasty lobes
removed from reflective surfaces.
Step
Up
to
EV