The RTW 10500X-PLUS is a compact stereo audio metering system providing accurate monitoring of programme material in the digital domain. It is ideal for professional applications such as broadcast, high-quality music recording, post-production or mastering.
The unit is attractively styled and compact, and except for the power supply unit, is entirely self-contained. It incorporates a 6.4” colour TFT display; in addition the data display is available in standard VGA format on a rear panel connector to allow the use of an external monitor.
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 Left and Right channels, further meters may be placed on-screen, showing, for example, overall programme loudness integrated over various timescales.
The display layout and content may be configured to suit the user’s operational preferences. As well as bargraph metering of the stereo programme, the phase relationship between channels may be displayed either as an additional bargraph or as an audio vectorscope showing a “Lissajous figure”-type display. A 1/3-octave spectrum analyser is included as standard.
The audio input to the 10500X-PLUS is in digital AES3 format; a loopthrough output is provided to permit easy connection of additional equipment.
In use, control of the display is with a simple set of hardware buttons located to the right of the screen; contact closures at the remote control port mimic these buttons, allowing interface with external controls. 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.