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TUBE ULTRAFEX T1954
4.5 The Surround Processor of the TUBE ULTRAFEX
Sound quality during signal transmission is given top priority today. The signal is processed with the help of
Reverb devices, Compressors, Exciters, Denoisers etc. to produce a compact, low-noise and transparent
sound. However, the fact that hearing impression depends largely upon the positioning of the instruments
within the stereo panorama is often enough neglected. Using the Surround Processor of the TUBE ULTRAFEX,
the intensity of the stereo effect can be dramatically improved. The program material gains in liveliness, loud-
ness and transparency. As in a cinema with its special acoustics, the listener has the impression that the
orchestral instruments are placed all around him. The Surround Processor enlarges the stereo basis depen-
dent on the program material, without audibly colouring the sonic image.
The function of the Surround Processor is based on the derivation of a special signal, which is generated from
the difference of the left an right channel. This signal is then delayed program dependently and mixed with the
original signal. The difference between the two channels is the stereo substance whose ambient and spatial
information is improved by delaying the signal. Due to the described function, the Surround Processor is
principally useful only with stereo program material.
4.6 The Vacuum Tubes of the TUBE ULTRAFEX
4.6.1 UTC circuit
Our engineering team has made it possible to enhance the traditional tube circuitry (particularly for our TUBE
ULTRAFEX) and adapt it to meet the high sound quality and dynamics requirements of modern, pro-level audio
technology. The fact that we are still fascinated by antique tube radios and amps as well as the fine and warm
tonal character that we usually associate with them, are the reasons why vacuum tubes have kept their ground
even in state-of-the-art circuit topologies used especially in professional audio technology or high-end devices.
We are particularly proud that we have found a highly effective symbiosis between solid-state and tube tech-
nologies making them affordable to almost anybody in audio technology.