Introduction; The Concept; Before You Get Started - Behringer TUBE ULTRA-Q T1951 User Manual

1. INTRODUCTION

With the BEHRINGER TUBE ULTRA-Q T1951 you have purchased an innovative device. Parametric equalizers
represent the most advanced form of equalization systems. With the TUBE ULTRA-Q you have purchased an
extremely musical and flexible device. Our ULTRA-Q range of devices has been a hit ever since we introduced
our first model some 5 years ago. This high-end parametric equalizer is based on many years of experience
and findings in equalizer technology and is used throughout the world in renowned studios, sound reinforce-
ment systems as well as in broadcast and television studios. Improving the legendary ULTRA-Q even further
was a real challenge, and we are proud of our success. The BEHRINGER TUBE ULTRA-Q meets highest
requirements in terms of operation, sound, specifications and workmanship.
Even at the conception of the TUBE ULTRA-Q it was clear that we had to combine the outstanding technical
specifications of our ULTRA-Q with a warm tube sound. We are therefore proud to be able to present the
TUBE ULTRA-Q, a device featuring our newly developed UTC vacuum tube circuit combined with a no-
compromise approach. The newly developed UTC circuit provides subtle sound enhancement rather than
showy effects processing. In particular, digital workstations can be considerably enhanced in their sound
character. You are free to use the TUBE ULTRA-Q before the recording sessions or later when you mix down
the music you recorded. You can also use it to brighten up entire MIDI productions or even movie sound
recordings and thus give them their finishing touch.
The philosophy behind BEHRINGER products guarantees a no-compromise circuit design and employs the
best choice of components. The op-amps, type 4580, used in the TUBE ULTRA-Q are chosen for their superior
signal-to-noise ratio, low distortion and linear performance. Additionally, the TUBE ULTRA-Q uses high quality
resistors and capacitors with very tight tolerances, high-grade switches as well other selected components.
The TUBE ULTRA-Q is manufactured under ISO900 certified management system.
With the exception of two 12AX7/ECC83 tubes, the TUBE ULTRA-Q T1951 is based on SMD technology
(Surface Mounted Device). These subminiature components known from aerospace applications ensure both
extreme packing density and greater reliability.
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Please keep the manual after reading, in order to use it for future reference.

1.1 The concept

The heart of the TUBE ULTRA-Q is an extremely low-noise and transparent sounding state-variable filter. In
combination with the Constant-Q principle, the 4580 op-amp and the newly developed ULTRA-TUBE
technology, the TUBE ULTRA-Q achieves extremely low noise and distortion figures together with an
incredible warm sound. With four fully parametric bands, it offers you truly professional signal processing.
In the TUBE ULTRA-Q, two selected 12AX7 / ECC83 vacuum tubes are used. These triodes are capable of
handling a large dynamic range with little microphony. In addition to that their relative ruggedness and above
average life span and you can see why it’s one of the most popular and reliable pre-amp tubes on the market.
These features also ensure you their availability for many years to come.
Failsafe relays have been incorporated into the design of the BEHRINGER TUBE ULTRA-Q, which auto-
matically and silently bypass the unit in the event of power supply disconnection or failure. These relays are
also active at switch-on to isolate the TUBE ULTRA-Q until the power rails have settled, thus preventing the
possibility of a potentially damaging switch-on thump.

1.2 Before you get started

Your BEHRINGER TUBE ULTRA-Q was carefully packed in the factory and the packaging was designed to
protect the unit from rough handling. Nevertheless, we recommend that you carefully examine the packaging
and its contents for any signs of physical damage, which may have occurred in transit.
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If the unit is damaged, please do not return it to us, but notify your dealer and the shipping
company immediately, otherwise claims for damage or replacement may not be granted.
Shipping claims must be made by the consignee.
The BEHRINGER TUBE ULTRA-Q fits into two standard 19" rack units of space. Please allow at least an
additional 4" / 10 cm depth for the connectors on the back panel.
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TUBE ULTRA-Q T1951
1. INTRODUCTION