Sound Performance Lab Model 2591 manual Introduction, Analog vs. Digital Summing

Introduction

The MixDreamXP design plan provides for stereo mixdown at the analog level. This concept offers high-grade analog summing without panorama and fader controls, in turn allowing an engi- neer to retain the entire scope of his computer automation. In use, the MixDreamXP requires almost no departures from an engineer‘s usual working mode, so that all his trusted DAW features and familiar working routines remain available while the MixDreamXP seamlessly expands his aural mixing palette.

One MixDreamXP can sum up to 16 audio tracks to a stereo signal, and should the need arise for more than 16 tracks, several MixDreamXP may be linked together. Owners of a MixDream, model 2384, can expand this unit with the cost effec- tive MIxDreamXP at an identical quality level and by the way, that‘s where the suffix “XP“ comes from (=Expansion).

The MixDreamXP discrete class A technology is based on the same 60-volt rails (+/- 30V) of the MixDream model 2384. Newly developed circuitry, based on the most modern analog components, guarantees an extremely high slew rate, a very low noise level of -97 dBu and a dynamic range of 125 dB. Thus the MixDreamXP easily reaches the technical level of the best analog consoles.

Analog vs. Digital Summing

Nowadays, many are asking whether analog summing is better than digital summing. But perhaps the real question is whether digital summing better than analog summing? We at SPL don‘t know of anyone who says so. We do know that summing with the MixDreamXP creates an amazing signal depth, precise local- ization and a wonderful stereo imaging. Moreover, the addition of individual instruments results in soft and pleasant transi- tions.

These are analog summing results that we appreciate from past decades of the best analog technology. The MixDreamXP now allows DAW users to exploit this potential with maximum comfort and uncompromising quality, ensuring that nothing can stand in the way of the engineer‘s having the best of both analog and digital worlds.

4 MixDream XP