2. INTRODUCING THE DN9340E/DN9344E
The Klark Teknik DN9340E Helix digital equaliser is a two-channel audio digital equaliser packaged in a 2RU, 19” rack-mounting format. The two channels can be controlled independently as two separate mono equalisers or linked for stereo operation. The unit has been designed to build on Klark Teknik's unrivalled reputation for high quality equalisation, while addressing a number of limitations in more conventional products.
The Klark Teknik DN9344E Helix Slave digital equaliser is a 1U slave version of the DN9340E unit. By packaging FOUR channels of Helix processing into a 1U case, it offers unrivalled space efficiency, with a cost per channel lower than many less flexible products. The DN9344E can be controlled from a master DN9340E unit or by an external computer, and also has provision for contact closure operation.
2.1. Host Software Versions
This Operator Manual applies to Klark Teknik DN9340E and DN9344E Helix units that are running host software versions 4.01 and later. To check whether this manual covers the host software version that your unit is running, visit our website shown at the front of the manual.
2.2. Key Features
Key features of each unit are:
Simultaneous availability of graphic and parametric equalisation
In addition to the obvious advantages of a dual-purpose unit, this allows the engineer to separate out different sections of equalisation. For example, during setup and any sound check, the parametric mode can be used to set a basic EQ for the venue, with maximum flexibility. Once the show starts, however, the engineer can flip to graphic mode, which now starts off from a ‘flat’ baseline. Any problems that need fast attention during the show can now be addressed using the speed of operation of graphic EQ, and without confusion between the ‘showtime’ EQ and the original venue setup. At any time, a quick look at the home page will show the true overall response of the unit.
Threshold Dependent Dynamic EQ (
)
Over the years a number of dynamic EQ products have been introduced. These typically resemble a combination of a dynamics processor and an equaliser. This approach has the disadvantage that, while it is usually fairly easy to determine the level at which the dynamic EQ will start to operate, it is much harder to visualise the likely effect as the system is pushed harder or to set a maximum
amount of EQ. The unique 
system developed by Klark Teknik with its dual thresholds provides unrivalled clarity of operation making this a very practical tool.
Speed of operation
Since the advent of digital signal processors, it has been possible to pack ever more functions into smaller boxes. However, if a function is buried in a hard-to-find sub-menu, which is only accessible after navigating a complex series of button presses, it may as well not be included. In live production, the operation of the unit is as crucial as the sound quality and this is a key part of the Helix design. The 2RU format permits a large graphic LCD display, while a second alphanumeric display provides clear value readouts above the control knobs without using up space on the main LCD. Dedicated selection buttons for the main functions, clear LED indicators, and no less than eight separate bargraph meters ensure that the unit is fast and accurate in operation. The unique two-section touchstrip provides instant access to filters and faders, so that Helix provides the same feeling of being “in control”, which is familiar to users of Klark Teknik analogue graphic equalisers.
5
