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Alesis M1 Active Mk2 manual About Surround Sound

Models: M1 Active Mk2

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Surround Sound

CHAPTER 3

SURROUND SOUND

ABOUT SURROUND SOUND

Surround sound is the term used for several different systems which use multiple channels of playback in the listening room to recreate a truly three- dimensional sound experience. The practice of recording music-only in surround sound is a fairly recent innovation. Surround sound for video, however, has been around for over ten years. With modern encoding methods, multichannel audio may be delivered to consumers on standard video tape, video discs, and even through broadcast, with the proper encoders (devices which take multiple channels of audio and combine them into two channels) and decoders (used at the receiving end to split the signal back into multiple channels).

Systems are in use which use three (left, right, and surround), five (left, center, right, left surround, right surround, often supplemented by a sixth subwoofer channel), and more speakers. The original Dolby Surround of the mid-eighties was a matrixed three-channel-only system. It had left, right and a mono surround (rear) track, which was usually played through two surround speakers. In 1987, Dolby Pro Logic, a four-channel matrix system, was introduced. Pro Logic added a dedicated center channel to which most dialog was assigned. The rear surround channel was still in mono. In 1996, Dolby Digital (AC-3) and DTS, fully discrete six-channel audio delivery platforms with separate left-rear and right-rear channels first became available to consumers on laserdisc and, more recently, on DVD (Digital Versatile Disc).

With so many listeners hearing music through their multimedia systems, it is important for engineers to produce music on surround systems, even if they’re not working for film or video applications. Powered monitors like the Alesis M1 Active Mk2 Biamplified Reference Monitor have proven to be a simple, cost-effective way to add five-channel surround to control rooms.

M1 Active Mk2 Reference Manual

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Alesis M1 Active Mk2 manual About Surround Sound
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M1 Active Mk2 specifications

The Alesis M1 Active Mk2 is a well-regarded studio monitor designed for musicians, producers, and audio engineers seeking high-quality sound reproduction at an accessible price point. With a focus on delivering accurate sound and a balanced performance, the M1 Active Mk2 has become a popular choice for both home studios and professional environments.

One of the standout features of the M1 Active Mk2 is its bi-amplified design. Each speaker is powered by dedicated amplifiers that optimize the performance of the woofer and tweeter separately. This bi-amplification ensures clear and precise sound reproduction across the frequency spectrum. The 6.5-inch low-frequency driver is designed to deliver robust bass response while the 1-inch silk dome tweeter provides smooth high-frequency performance, resulting in a well-rounded audio experience.

The M1 Active Mk2 incorporates advanced technologies to enhance its performance. The monitor features a front-firing bass port that helps to minimize boundary coupling and improves the overall bass response, allowing for placement flexibility within the studio. This design reduces the risk of unwanted resonances caused by proximity to walls, ensuring accurate sound even in challenging acoustic environments.

Another important characteristic of the M1 Active Mk2 is its frequency response, which ranges from 55 Hz to 20 kHz. This wide frequency range makes it suitable for various musical genres and audio applications, enabling users to hear detailed nuances in their mixes. Additionally, the monitor is equipped with a rear-mounted EQ control, allowing users to tailor the sound to their specific acoustic space, mitigating the effects of room acoustics on playback.

Durability and design are also key aspects of the M1 Active Mk2. Its rugged enclosure is built to withstand the rigors of studio use while also providing a sleek and professional appearance. The monitors can be easily positioned on desktop surfaces or mounted on stands, making them versatile for different studio setups.

Overall, the Alesis M1 Active Mk2 stands out as a reliable and affordable option for anyone looking to improve their audio monitoring capabilities. With its bi-amplified design, advanced technologies, and customizable features, this studio monitor delivers impressive sound quality suitable for both amateur and professional recording applications. Whether mixing, mastering, or simply enjoying music, the M1 Active Mk2 is designed to deliver a true-to-source listening experience.