The RTW 10800X-PLUS is a compact multichannel audio metering system providing accurate monitoring of surround sound programme material from analogue or digital sources. It is ideal for professional applications such as broadcast, high-quality music recording, post-production or mastering, and provides the user with all the information necessary to achieve accurate sound level management when working with surround formats up to 5.1. The unit is equally suitable for metering other combinations of mono, stereo and surround audio – e.g. 4 x 2ch., or 5.1+2.
The unit is attractively styled, compact and except for the power supply unit, is entirely self-contained. It incorporates two 5” separate colour TFT displays, for meter and surround sound analyser displays.
In addition to bargraph metering of the surround sound programme, a 2-dimensional analysis of the instantaneous surround sound field may be displayed (the renowned RTW “House” display).
Audio level monitoring is via large, clear on-screen bargraph meters. Meter types may be user-defined; these include standard PPMs and loudness meter scales conforming to the recommendations of ITU BS 1771 (both LU and LKFS units). As well as metering of the individual surround channels, further meters may be placed on-screen, showing, for example, overall programme loudness integrated over various timescales.
Phase correlation may be added to the analyser display, showing the phase relationship between LF/RF, LF/C. RF/C and LS/RS pairs of channels. Dialnorm measurement is also provided for subsequent inclusion with Dolby? metadata. A further display option is an audio vectorscope, showing “Lissajous figure”-type phase relationships in 2, 4 or 5-channel formats. A 1/3-octave spectrum analyser is also included as standard.
The 10800X-PLUS is provided with audio inputs in both analogue and digital AES3 formats. Maximum level for the analogue inputs is +20 dBu. Loopthrough outputs are provided of the digital AES3 inputs to permit easy connection of additional equipment. A digital input only version (10809X-PLUS) is also available.
In use, control of the display is with a simple set of hardware buttons located in between the two screens. A comprehensive menu system allows the user to configure the primary setup parameters to his or her taste. Configurations may be saved as presets to facilitate rapid recall in a multi-user situation. The unit’s remote control port provides contact-closure command inputs which mimic the hardware buttons, and also may be used to recall presets.
Model variants can be ordered to permit direct fitment into Lawo, Studer or SSL mixing consoles. The 3U half-rack-width 10860X-VID is ideal for mounting in OB vehicles and other situations where space is at a premium.