Gain Structure; Input Tab; Mix Tab - Extron electronics MediaPort 200 User Manual

Gain Structure

Proper gain structure is essential to achieving optimal performance from the MediaPort 200
and related equipment. Refer to the Extron white paper,
Systems, for detailed information.
NOTE: To view the white paper, an Extron Insider account is required.
Extron Product Control Software (PCS) is used to set gain structure in the MediaPort 200.
From the
Audio Configuration
tabs ( ) controls a different gain stage for each input and output on the MediaPort 200.
B
Figure 78.

Input Tab

Setting proper input gain is fundamental to any audio device, and therefore, the
is placed first in the
meters, referenced to 0 dBFS, or "full scale." Ideal input gain allows the level to approach
0 dBFS without going over. Signal beyond the level of 0 dBFS will clip and experience
undesirable distortion.
In order to achieve this optimal level without clipping, a strong yet safe target signal level
must be established. To derive a dBu equivalent on the MediaPort peak meter referenced to
0 dBFS, the MediaPort max input level of +21 dBu must be considered. Subtracting
17 dB from +21 dBu gives us +4 dBu. Therefore, −17 dBFS on the MediaPort input meters
is the approximate equivalent to +4 dBu.
With −17 dBFS as a target, the average audio signal will be −17 dBFS while varying
approximately ±10 dB above or below that level. That would put the strongest, or "hottest"
signal at about −6 to −8 dBFS. This is a safe level for program or microphone signals
(see Input Tab

Mix Tab

When input gain is properly set, all listening levels can be set and run-time operation
can then be performed from the
have a range of −100 to +12 dB. While there may be cases where extra gain is needed,
it is recommended to avoid going above 0 dB in the
The tab contains a Room Volume control, which may be the only control that needs
Mix
adjustment once other controls are properly (see
information).
( ) screen pictured in figure 78 below, each of the
A
Extron PCS Audio Configuration Tabs
section of PCS. The MediaPort 200 uses digital peak
Audio Config
on page 51 for more information).
tab. Line Inputs and USB Communications levels
Mix
MediaPort 200 • Standalone MediaPort 200 Application Setup
Audio Gain Structure for Pro AV
tab as this may cause clipping.
Mix
Mix Tab on page 56 for more
tab
Input
87