EQUALIZER FUNCTIONS

Low Cut Filter (High-Pass)

The low-cut (or high-pass) filter allows all frequencies above its cutoff point

+2

to pass from filter input to filter output without attenuation, while frequencies below the cutoff are attenuated (see Figure 6). The cutoff point is defined

0

FULL CW

as the frequency where the signal has dropped 3 dB relative to the flat, or bandpass, region. Below the cutoff point, the filter exhibits increasingly more attenuation as the frequency diminishes. The rate at which this atten- uation occurs is defined in decibels per octave (dB/oct). The SCM810 has a one-pole, low-cut (high-pass) filter of 6 dB per octave.

Low-cut filters are ideally used for attenuating, or rolling off, the audio signal where extraneous noise, excessive proximity effect, or other unwanted ma- terial is present. For example, the low-frequency vibration cause by foot- steps and vehicle traffic can be transmitted through microphone stands to the microphone, and then into the sound system. These frequencies, typi- cally ranging from 5 to 80 Hz, are generally not desirable.

-2

 

-4

 

-6

 

-8

FULL CCW

50%

 

-10

ROTATION

 

20

100

1,000

5,000

 

 

FREQUENCY (Hz)

 

LOW-CUT FILTER EFFECTS

FIGURE 6

High-Frequency Shelving

The fixed-frequency equalizer produces a 6 dB boost or cut at 5 kHz and above (see Figure 7). High-frequency shelving is extremely useful for boosting flat frequency response, tempering very sibilant vocal microphones, or enhancing the sound of off-axis lavalier microphones.

+10

+8

+6

+4

+2

0

-2

-4

-6

-8

-10

2001,000 FREQUENCY (Hz)

FULL

CW

50%

ROTATE

FULL

CCW

10,000 20,000

HIGH-FREQUENCY SHELVING EFFECTS

FIGURE 7

USING AN EQUALIZER/FEEDBACK CONTROLLER WITH AN AUTOMATIC MIXER

When setting up a sound system which has an outboard equalizer or feed- back controller in the signal chain, set the SCM810 to MANUAL. This acti- vates all microphone inputs, so every possible feedback path is open. With the SCM810 in MANUAL mode, equalize the sound system and/or “Ring Out” the room to set the feedback controller.

After equalizing the sound system, set the SCM810 to AUTOMATIC mode. Remember that the input of an automatic mixer drops by 3 dB every time the number activated inputs doubles. When using an SCM810 in MANUAL mode, the master output drops by 9 dB when all 8 inputs are activated. Conversely, it will rise by 9 dB when switched back to AUTOMATIC mode.

BASIC MIXER OPERATION

1.Turn on the Power switch.

2.Adjust each channel level so that its Overload LED flickers only during very loud speech or noise.

3.Turn unused channel controls full counterclockwise.

4.Adjust the SCM810 Master level control for the required output level, as indicated by the output peak meter.

5.If a headphone monitor is to be used, adjust the PHONES control knob until the desired volume level is reached.The SCM810/E is now ready to use.

NOTE: The SCM810/E mixer is fully automatic. For most applications, no additional adjustments are required.

NOTE: The extreme sensitivity of the IntelliMix circuitry may allow some channel gating due to static discharge or electrical disturbance to the power

or signal lines. The unit will not be damaged: normal operation will resume after the disturbance ceases.

7

Page 7
Image 7
Shure SCM810AZ manual Equalizer Functions, Basic Mixer Operation, Low Cut Filter High-Pass, High-Frequency Shelving

SCM810AZ specifications

The Shure SCM810AZ is a highly regarded automatic mixer designed specifically for professional audio applications. It is an essential tool for sound reinforcement in situations where multiple audio sources need to be managed efficiently, such as in conference rooms, broadcast environments, and live events.

One of the standout features of the SCM810AZ is its advanced Automatic Mixing technology. This allows the unit to intelligently mix multiple microphones by reducing comb filtering and minimizing background noise. It utilizes an algorithm that automatically detects the level of each input and gradually adjusts its gain to create a balanced output. This results in a cleaner and more intelligible audio feed, ideal for environments with dynamic speaker presence.

The SCM810AZ is equipped with eight input channels, each with individual gain adjustments and the capability to accommodate various types of microphones, from handheld to lavalier. Each channel is designed with a low-cut filter to eliminate unwanted low-frequency noise, improving overall clarity. Additionally, the mixer includes a mic preamp with high headroom, ensuring that even the loudest sources can be captured without distortion.

Another significant characteristic of the SCM810AZ is its intuitive control interface. The front panel features legible LED indicators that provide real-time feedback on levels and activity, allowing users to quickly identify which channels are active. The mixer also includes a comprehensive monitoring section, allowing operators to listen to both individual channels and the overall mix.

In terms of connectivity, the SCM810AZ provides multiple output formats, including balanced XLR and unbalanced 1/4" outputs. This versatility makes it compatible with a variety of audio equipment, ensuring seamless integration into existing setups.

Durability is key in professional audio; thus, the SCM810AZ features a rugged design suitable for both permanent installations and portable use. Its compact form factor allows for easy rack mounting, saving valuable space in equipment setups.

In summary, the Shure SCM810AZ stands out as a professional-grade automatic mixer. With its intelligent automatic mixing technology, robust input options, intuitive interface, and versatile connectivity, the SCM810AZ is an indispensable tool for achieving high-quality audio in any multi-mic environment. Whether used for conferences, broadcasts, or live performances, it delivers consistent and reliable audio performance, meeting the demands of professional sound applications.