User Manual

19
Neos
Control Elements Master Path
Dim
Dim reduces 20 dB the listening volume of both monitor outputs. This setting can be used,
for example, to compare the same mix at two different listening levels without having to
modify the Volume control. 20 dB is a value which has been accepted in the industry as a
standard.
Mono
The mono switch sums the two channels that make up the stereo signal. The mono signal is
played back on both channels. The mono function allows checking the mono compatibility of
a mix, i.e. which signals are too faint or disappear completely when played back in mono. Even
if this test is not as important today as it used to be, it is still essential for radio mixes and
vinyl productions.
Tape Return
Connect the outputs of the recording device (D/A converter, computer, tape machine, etc.)
to the Tape Return inputs (see also page 13 “Tape Return”). That way you can listen to the
mixdown recorded and compare it to the output signal of the Neos with a simple button. Even
if it is not very common to have signals recorded on tape anymore, we decided to use the
traditional and most common term used for this application.
Master Insert
Use the Master Insert push button to connect external processors to the Neos via the Send/
Insert Return connectors. The insert affects the sum signal on the master path.
Common signal processors used at this stage are equalizers and compressors.
Bend
The Bend function activates a multi-stage, passive diode limiter that can level out curves and
limit signal peaks. The diodes used are made of germanium and silicon. While the former have
smoother curves, silicon diodes are a bit harder. The Bend diode network is designed in a way
that the processing becomes more aggressive the higher the signal level is. The processing
range starts at -6 dB and extends almost 20 dB. When level differences are small processing
is barely noticeable, however dynamic material will produce more distinct results. The inter-
action between the Bend limiter and the input channels and master signal saturation can be
very interesting. Since limiting is intensified by higher levels, you can achieve clearer targeted
or overall limiting effects. Typical applications are found in rock and pop music whenever the
signal sound needs to be fatter or the coloration of the diodes is desired. With transient-rich
signals it can also have an impact on rhythmic and timing (percussion instruments, piano,
plucked strings, etc.). In a more general sense, the Bend function also works as a protection
device by limiting signal peaks before they reach the converter.
Fader
Use the fader to set the level of the sum signal for recording. The level ranges from +8 dB to
-∞. The 0 dB point is shifted slightly compared to the input faders in order to allow for up to
+8 dB of gain. There are roughly two saturation methods: either the input channels are satu-
rated while the sum signal is kept at moderate levels, or the input channel signals are kept
moderate while the sum signal is saturated. Both approaches are valid, the pros and cons
depend on the music genre and other signal processing applied. The Neos certainly offers the
best design and technical conditions for every approach.
BEND
MUTE
DIM
dB
6
7
5
3
2
0
-2
-4
-5
-6
-8
-10
-12
-15
-18
-20
-24
-28
-36
-46
-
∞
+8
TAPE
RETURN
MASTER
INSERT
MONO
TAPE
RETURN
MASTER
INSERT