2. THE DESIGN CONCEPT
2.1 High Quality Components And Design
The philosophy behind BEHRINGER products guarantees a no-compromise circuit design and employs the best choice of components. The operational amplifiers NJM4580 which are used in the ULTRAFEX PRO, are exceptional. They boast extreme linearity and very low distortion characteristics. The most important aspect of the ULTRAFEX PRO design is a radical VCA implementation which results in outstanding technical specification and excellent performance. To complement this design the choice of components includes high tolerance metalfilm resistors and capacitors, detent potentiometers and several other stringently selected elements.
For the first time, the ULTRAFEX PRO EX3200 uses SMD technology (Surface Mounted Device). These sub-miniature components known from aerospace technology allow for an extreme packing density, plus the unit’s reliability could be improved. Additionally, the unit is manufactured in compliance with a ISO9000 certi- fied management system.
2.1.1 Failsafe Relays
Failsafe relays have been incorporated into the design of the BEHRINGER ULTRAFEX PRO, which automati- cally 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 ULTRAFEX PRO until the power rails have settled, thus preventing the possibility of a potentially damaging switch-on thump.
2.2 Inputs And Outputs
2.2.1 Balanced Inputs And Outputs
As standard, the BEHRINGER ULTRAFEX PRO is installed with electronically servo-balanced inputs and outputs. The new circuit design features automatic hum and noise reduction for balanced signals and thus allows for trouble-free operation, even at high operating levels. Externally induced mains hum etc. will be effectively suppressed. The automatic servo-function recognizes the presence of unbalanced connectors and adjusts the nominal level internally to avoid level differences between the input and output signals (correction 6 dB).
2.2.2 Transformer Balanced Outputs (Optional)
In contrast to electronic balancing, the use of transformer-balanced outputs offers the advantage of galvanic separation between units. Electrical potential differences and ground loops in audio installations do not therefore impair the performance of the units. The transformer-balanced outputs, commonly used in radio and TV engineering, can also be fitted retrospectively upon request. The BEHRINGER transformer OT-1 is designed to the highest exacting standards and is available as an accessory.
