My friends, its been worth the trouble!

Thank you very much,

Uli Behringer
High precision key filters for frequency selective operation
Interactive Class-A Expander/Gate/Ducker
Ultra-fast gate (< 3 sec.) employing the UTR (Ultra Transient Response) circuit
IRC (Interactive Ratio Control) expander circuit eliminates chatter on or around the threshold point
XR2000 XR2000 XR2000 XR2000 XR2000
Fully adjustable ratio control in Expander mode
Fully adjustable attenuation control in Gate mode
Independent hold/release controls for any envelope shaping
Key listen facility for monitoring the filter section
High-performance Class-A VCAs
Ultra low-noise 4580 audio operational amplifiers for outstanding sound performance
Precise gain reduction display with 8 LEDs
Accurate Traffic Light display for easy threshold setting
True RMS level detection for inaudible performance
Servo-balanced inputs and outputs
Gold-plated XLR and 1/4" TRS connectors
High-quality detented potentiometers and illuminated switches
Manufactured under ISO9000 certified management system 4

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. INTRODUCTION..... 6 1.1 Before you begin..... 6 1.2 Control elements..... 7 1.2.1 Front panel..... 8 1.2.2 Rear panel..... 9 2. OPERATION..... 10 2.1 Functions of the Expander..... 10 2.2 Interactive control functions..... 10 2.2.1 THRESHOLD control.... 11 2.2.2 ATTACK-, RELEASE- and HOLD controls... 11 2.2.3 RANGE control.... 12 2.2.4 IRC (Interactive Ratio Control)-EXPANDER.... 12 2.3 RATIO control..... 12 2.4 GAIN REDUCTION meter.... 13 2.5 COUPLE function.... 13 2.6 DUCKER function..... 13 2.7 KEY FILTERS..... 13 2.7.1 KEY EXT function..... 13 2.7.2 KEY LISTEN function.... 13 3. APPLICATIONS..... 14 3.1 Initial settings..... 14 3.1.1 The gating function..... 14 3.1.2 The EXPANDER function.... 15 3.2 Correct microphone placement.... 16 3.3 Frequency selective expansion.... 16 3.4 Main applications.... 16 3.4.1 Controlling leakage in the studio... 16 3.4.2 Reducing leakage in stage mics... 17 3.4.3 Reducing feedback in stage mics.... 17 3.4.4 Noise reduction on effects paths... 17 3.5 Using the INTELLIGATE to change the sound.... 18 3.5.1 Reshaping sample sounds.... 18 3.5.2 Altering the texture of musical instruments.... 18 4. SPECIAL APPLICATIONS..... 18 4.1 The INTELLIGATE as De-Esser.... 18 4.2 Frequency selective operation.... 19 4.2.1 Frequency selective filtering of unwanted signals.... 19 4.2.2 Suppressing instruments during recording... 19 4.2.3 Reducing feedback in PA systems.... 19 5. EXTERNAL SIDECHAIN APPLICATIONS.... 20 5.1 The Key External function.... 20 5.2 Using an equalizer in the sidechain path.... 20 5.3 Voice Over applications.... 21 5.3.1 The Voice Over application in conference room situations... 21 5.4 Anticipated expansion..... 22 5.5 Triggering additional sounds from a rhythm track... 22 6. INSTALLATION..... 23 6.1 Mains voltage..... 23 6.2 Audio connections..... 23 7. SPECIFICATIONS..... 24 8. WARRANTY..... 26

1. INTRODUCTION

In purchasing the INTELLIGATE, you have acquired an extremely efficient and universal dynamics processor. The unit is a versatile, high quality expander, gate and ducker for recording and broadcast situations, post production suits etc. It can therefore be used for recording or eliminating noise in audio recordings, automatically shutting down open mics in PA systems, increasing dynamics in heavily compressed music, improving the dynamic range of noisy communication systems, creating special effects for varying sound styles etc. Advanced BEHRINGER Technology Despite the extremely complex internal circuitry, the unit has a control surface which is clearly laid out and easy to understand. The internal design of the unit, together with its external sidechain path, gives the user unsurpassed creative flexibility when processing sound. The BEHRINGER INTELLIGATE contains several new circuit designs which make the unit the ultimate expander/ gate/ducker. UTR (Ultra Transient Response) Gate With an attack time of 3 s, the BEHRINGER INTELLIGATE is one of the fastest gates known, that have been designed. An extremely quick attack time is necessary for very fast transients, e.g. for hand claps or percussive instruments, so that the gate does not loose the initial transients and affect the sound. The new UTR (Ultra Transient Response) circuit, in conjunction with a Class-A VCA circuit, the unit allows for instantaneous attack parameters without the all too familiar, nightmarish switching noise, found when using conventional gates. IRC (Interactive Ratio Control) Expander A basic problem in the use of a noise-gate is that generally these devices provide you with little more than a simple on/off switch. When attempting to fade noise out of complex programme material, the unit would inadvertently create undesirable side effects. To eliminate this problem, one would use an additional expander, which would create a continuous and gently fade. However, simple expanders, even when they are used correctly, drastically cut signals below the preset threshold. This effect becomes more noticeable during the transition from signal to noise floor. This can mean that the start or end of words can be cut on a vocal track. A newly developed IRC (Interactive Ratio Control) expander has been integrated into the INTELLIGATE. The ratio of which, is automatically adjusted, dependent on programme material. The result is an expander which is less critical of adjustment and which is more tolerant in the presence of those signals which appear slightly above the noise floor. In conjunction with the gate function, the IRC expander is an excellent tool for all associated sound engineering situations. Additionally, the extensive control parameters allow for a focussed and successful solution whilst processing all types of programme material. Without compromise, the unit meets the highest demands with regard to operation, sound, specifications and manufacture. This manual first describes the terminology used, so that you can fully understand the INTELLIGATE and its functions. Please read the manual carefully and keep it for future reference.

1.1 Before you begin

Your INTELLIGATE was carefully packed in the factory and the packaging is designed to protect the unit from rough handling. Nevertheless, we recommend that you carefully examine the packaging and its contents for any signs of physical damage, which may have occurred during transit. If the unit is damaged, please do not return it to BEHRINGER, but notify your dealer and the shipping company immediately, otherwise claims for damage or replacement may not be granted. Shipping claims must be made by the consignee.
INTELLIGATE XR2000 The BEHRINGER INTELLIGATE fits into one standard 19" rack unit of space (1 3/4"). Please allow at least an additional 4" depth for the connectors on the back panel. Be sure that there is enough air space around the unit for cooling and please do not place the INTELLIGATE on high temperature devices such as power amplifiers etc. to avoid overheating. Before you connect your INTELLIGATE to the mains, please make sure that your local voltage matches the voltage required by the unit: The fuse holder on the female mains connector has 3 triangular markers, with two of these triangles opposing each other. Your INTELLIGATE is set to the operating voltage printed next to these markers, and can be set to another voltage by turning the fuse holder by 180. CAUTION: this instruction does not apply to export models exclusively designed, e.g. for 115 V operation! The mains connection of the INTELLIGATE is made by using the enclosed mains cable and a standard IEC receptacle. It meets all of the international safety certification requirements. Please make sure that all units have a proper ground connection. For your own safety, never remove or disable the ground connector of the unit or of the AC power cable. As standard, the BEHRINGER INTELLIGATE 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 (correction 6 dB). You will find additional information in chapter 6 INSTALLATION.

Control elements

Fig. 1.1: The control surface of the INTELLIGATE The BEHRINGER INTELLIGATE has two indentical channels. Each channel is equipped with 5 push button switches, 8 rotery controls and 11 LEDs. The COUPLE switch is for stereo operation:
The INTELLIGATE converts to stereo mode by engaging the COUPLE switch, where the left channel assumes the control of both audio paths, whereby the control voltage of channel 2 will be replaced with that of channel 1. By depressing the COUPLE switch, you overide all the controls and switches of channel 2 with the exception of the IN/OUT and the KEY LISTEN switch. Channel 1s controls completely take over the functions of channel 2.
INTELLIGATE XR2000 1.2.1 Front panel
Fig. 1.2: Control elements of the Expander section
The IN/OUT switch engages the corresponding channel. This switch is used to make direct A/B comparisons between source material and the processors effected signal. The THRESHOLD control adjusts the threshold level for the expander/gate section in the range of -50 to +20 dBu. Signals below this level cause attenuation. As the key signal passes through threshold, the release and hold functions are triggered, dropping the gain of the Expander/Gate to the value determined by the RANGE control. In Ducker mode these funtions are reversed. The ATTACK control adjusts the time taken to reach unity gain after the key signal exceeds threshold. When in the Ducker mode, this control adjusts the rate of attenuation after the key signal exceeds the threshold. The control range lies between 3 s and 90 milliseconds. The HOLD control adjusts the period of delay before the onset of the release function, after the signal falls below the threshold. The control range lies between 8 milliseconds and 4 seconds. The RELEASE control adjusts the time taken for the gain to be reduced to a value set by the RANGE control. When in the Ducker mode, this control adjusts the rate of recovery to unity gain after the hold cycle is complete. The control range lies between 10 milliseconds and 2 seconds. Use the RATIO control to adjust the ratio of the downward expander. It defines the relationship between the input and the output level which fall below the threshold. The control range lies between1.2:1 to 30:1. The RANGE control determines the maximum amount of attenuation. The control range lies between 0 dB up to 100 dB. The DUCKER switch changes the operation from the Expander to the Ducker and the control signal is inverted. When the key signal exceeds the threshold, the gain of the Ducker is now decreased and the output is returned to unity gain when the key signal falls below the threshold. The arrangement of the LEDs in this application is called traffic lights and indicates the operating status of the unit. The BELOW LED (red) indicates that the key signal is below threshold. The HOLD LED (yellow) indicates that the hold circuit is active. The ABOVE LED (green) indicates that the key signal is above threshold. The 8-stage GAIN REDUCTION meter informs you of the actual gain reduction and displays this in a range of 0 to 40 dB.

Fig. 1.3: Control elements of the Key Filter section
The tunable Key Filter section is switched into the sidechain path when the FILTER switch is pressed. The LOW CUT control adjusts the cut-off frequency at which the high pass filter rolls off low frequencies in the sidechain path. It has a slope of 12 dB/octave and has a control range from 30 Hz to 3 kHz. The HIGH CUT control adjusts the cutt-off frequency at which the low pass filter rolls the high frequencies in the sidechain path. It has a slope of 12 dB/octave and has a control range from 150 Hz to 15 kHz. Using the KEY LISTEN switch will enable you to connect the key control signal to the audio output, whilst at the same time muting the audio input. This function provides you with the ability to monitor the key signal, that is returned via inserted equalizers or other external processors. The KEY LISTEN function will assist you with tuning equalizer parameters for example. Please note when the KEY LISTEN switch in engaged, the audio processing facility of the respective channel is disabled. When this function is active, a visual indication will be provided by the switches LED.
When activated, the KEY EXT switch severes the connection between the audio input and the sidechain path, whilst at the same time allowing an external signal to be sourced at the KEY RETURN jack on the rear panel.

1.2.2 Rear panel

Fig. 1.4: Rear panel of the INTELLIGATE
SERIAL NUMBER. Please take the time to have the warranty card filled out completely, and return it within 14 days after the date of purchase, so as to be entitled to benefit from our extended warranty. Or use our online registration option available on the World Wide Web under www.behringer.com. Use the enclosed power cord to connect the unit to the mains. FUSE HOLDER / VOLTAGE SELECTOR. Please make sure that your local voltage matches the voltage indicated on the unit, before you attempt to connect and operate the INTELLIGATE. Blown fuses may only be replaced by fuses of the same type and rating. Some models allow for inserting the fuse holder in two different positions, in order to switch over from 230 V to 115 V operation, and vice versa. Please note that for 115 V operation outside Europe, you need to use a fuse of a higher rating (see chapter 6 INSTALLATION). 1. INTRODUCTION 9
AUDIO IN. These are the INTELLIGATEs audio inputs. AUDIO OUT. These are the INTELLIGATEs audio outputs. KEY SEND. This is the key signal output for the connection of external units. KEY RETURN. This is the key signal input for the connection of external units.

2. OPERATION

2.1 Functions of the Expander
As already described, a downward expander automatically reduces the overall level for all signals below an adjustable threshold and therefore extends the dynamic range of the programme material. The expander therefore operates in an opposite way to that of a compressor. Expanders generally function with a flat ratio curve, so that the signal continually fades. Noice-gates, however, can be seen as a special type of expander. They normally work with a more exaggerated ratio and radically attenuate the signal if it falls below the threshold. The following explanations also apply to the gate function, because the gate is a special form of the expander.

Fig. 2.1: The function of an Expander
2.2 Interactive control functions
Like the COMPOSER PRO MDX2200, MULTICOM PRO MDX4400, and others, the INTELLIGATE uses the newly developed INTERACTIVE principle based on a chain of intelligent control functions. For example, the IRC expander (Interactive Ratio Control) does not use a fixed ratio curve but varies this curve depending on the input level and the setting of the THRESHOLD control. The following chapter describes the interactive control functions in full detail:
INTELLIGATE XR2000 2.2.1 THRESHOLD control The THRESHOLD control of the Expander defines the operating level. It stretches across a very wide range and therefore applies to all working levels. Input levels above the adjusted threshold point do not experience any change. However, if the level falls below the threshold, the dynamics process is active. Simple noise-gates only provide you with one control for adjusting the threshold. Controls for varying the envelope parameters are omitted. The BEHRINGER INTELLIGATE is equipped with a full complement of controls to adjust all the required parameters. How important these parameters are, will be discussed in more detail in subsequent chapters. 2.2.2 ATTACK-, RELEASE- and HOLD controls The BEHRINGER INTELLIGATE provides you with three controls for defining the envelope shape:
Fig. 2.2: The envelope principle
ATTACK control The quality of an expander/gate is essentially determined by a fast attack time. It is defined as the amount of time that the expander/gate needs to return to unity gain, once the signal has exceeded the threshold. An extremely quick attack time is necessary for very fast transients, e.g. for handclaps or percussive instruments, so that the expander does not loose the initial transients and affect the sound. The new UTR (Ultra Transient Response) circuit, in conjunction with a Class-A VCA circuit, the unit allows for instantaneous attack parameters without the all too familiar switching noise found when using most conventional gates. The wide control range of the ATTACK control also allows for a gentle rise time of a signal, in order to produce creative effects. RELEASE control Another parameter is the release time: this determines the time that an expander requires to attenuate the signal by a certain amount, after it has fallen below the threshold. The most suitable release time is entirely dependent on the programme material. In order to adapt to the programme material, the INTELLIGATE can be adjusted so that it operates in a wide range. HOLD control The HOLD control produces an adjustable delay, which holds off the onset of the release cycle when the key signal falls below the threshold. This function is especially useful during the recording of frequently interrupted signals, e.g. a spoken word recording or perfomance, to avoid repeated triggering of the gate in between pauses.

INTELLIGATE XR2000 2.2.3 RANGE control The control of the dynamics process in the INTELLIGATE is provided by a high performance VCA. Its effective range is more than 100 dB, which means that the input signal can be attenuated up to 100 dB. In most applications, it is not desirable for the signal to be gated off completely when the signal drops below the threshold. This usually introduces chopping within the sound, especially when there is a significant amount of background noise to be suppressed, which does not lead to an advantage. The unit includes a RANGE control, which adjusts the maximum amount of attenuation. Using this control, it is possible to attenuate the signal slightly, so that the overall naturalness can be maintained, especially when handling very noisy signals. 2.2.4 IRC (Interactive Ratio Control)-EXPANDER The response characteristics of conventional expanders tend to cut into the signal abruptly and the result of this is unacceptable most of the time. Gain changes become audible. In an application which requires inaudible expansion, it is advantageous to create a gentle Soft Knee characteristic during a contiguous transition through the threshold. A newly developed IRC (Interactive Radio Control) Expander has been integrated into the INTELLIGATE. The ratio curve characteristic automatically adapts itself, dependent on programme material. At lower ratios with reducing expansion, the transition is gentle, whereas higher ratios and increasing expansion will result in harder transitions within the curve. The ICR Expander is therefore equipped with a soft, interactive non-linear ratio curve, which is best suited to the human hearing. Critical signals in the vicinity of the threshold level are processed with a minute expansion ratio, whereas signals that reduce in level will be subjected to an increasingly higher ratio which will result in greater attenuation.
Fig. 2.3: IRC curve characteristic of the Expander The result is an expander which is less critical of adjustment and which is more tolerant in the presence of those signals which appear slightly above the noise floor.

2.3 RATIO control

The change of output relative to the change of input, when the key signal is below threshold, is called the expansion ratio, and is adjustable with the RATIO control. This control adjusts an important parameter, it changes the function of the section from an expander to a gate. Low ratios, from 1.2:1 about 3:1 produce precisely controlled downward expansion, with more pronounced effects as the ratio increases to 30:1, where the unit functions as a gate. The scale of the ratio is calibrated in dB on the front panel. It indicates the decrease in output level, resulting from a 1 dB decrease in input level.

INTELLIGATE XR2000 A ratio of 1:1 indicates, that the output signal will correspond to the input signal i.e., there is no level change. A ratio of 2:1 indicates, that for every 1 dB decrease in input level below the threshold, there will be resultant corresponding decrease in the output level of 2 dB. A ratio of 30:1 indicates, that for a 1 dB decrease in input level below the threshold, there will be a corresponding decrease in the output level of 30 dB etc.

GAIN REDUCTION meter

The GAIN REDUCTION meter consists of eight LEDs on the front panel of the BEHRINGER INTELLIGATE. This meter provides a convenient visual indication of the amount of gain reduction that is taking place at any time. If a signal exceeds the input level of the threshold point, this function of the compressor comes into play and the GAIN REDUCTION meter shows the actual measurement of gain reduction. As an example, consider a signal that drops below the threshold point by 2 dB: with a ratio setting of 6:1, the output level will be decreased by 12 dB (providing the time and the RANGE controls are set accordingly). This means that the signal level has been reduced by 12 dB, which is indicated by the 10 dB LED. Although the VCA of the BEHRINGER INTELLIGATE features a control range of 100 dB, it is not useful to display the entire range, as in practice, such a broad control range will hardly be required. The visual range of the GAIN REDUCTION meter is 40 dB.

COUPLE function

When phase coherent stereo signals are to be expanded, it is necessary for the gain controls of both channels of the expander to be simultaneously controlled, otherwise the stereo image will shift within the sound field, as the relative levels of the left and right signals vary. When the COUPLE switch is engaged, the INTELLIGATE functions in stereo mode, whereby the left channel takes over the control of both channels, so that the control voltage in channel 2 is replaced by the control voltage in channel 1. When the COUPLE switch is activated, all controls and switches belonging to channel 2 are put out of action, with the exception of the KEY LISTEN switch. The controls of channel 1 take over the regulation of channel 2. Both channels now work together as in a stereo fader.

DUCKER function

An expander or gate opens its audio channel, as soon as a certain level has been exceeded. A ducker works in exactly the opposite way: when the key signal exceeds the threshold point, this will result in an attenuation of the audio signal. As the key signal drops below the threshold, the audio signal gain returns to unity. All controls remain active while in Ducker mode.

KEY FILTERS

Each channel contains an insertable low and high pass filter section which provides you with a slope of 12 dB/octave. The adjustable filters of this highly flexible equalizer can be used to filter out or isolate specific frequencies which would otherwise create mis-triggering. 2.7.1 KEY EXT function An external signal can be sent via the KEY RETURN jack, which allows the unit to be controlled externally. By engaging the KEX EXT switch, the BEHRINGER INTELLIGATE can be controlled externally e.g. gating of an audio signal by an independent control signal. 2.7.2 KEY LISTEN function Using this switch will enable you to connect the key control signal to the audio output, whilst at the same time muting the audio input. This function provides you with the ability to monitor the key signal that is returned via inserted equalizers or other external processors. The KEY LISTEN function will assist you with tuning the key filters or the monitoring of external processing devices.
INTELLIGATE XR2000 Please note when the KEY LISTEN switch is engaged, the audio processing facility of the respective channel is disabled. With the KEY LISTEN function activated, the key filter section can be used as an independent fully functional equalizer section.

3. APPLICATIONS

In this section, several typical applications of the BEHRINGER INTELLIGATE are discussed. The following basic settings can resolve most dynamic problems. They are the ideal starting point. Please take the time to study the application examples carefully, in order to be able to make full use of the INTELLIGATEs capabilities in future. The main applications of the BEHRINGER INTELLIGATE can be divided into four categories: 1. To eliminate interference and to suppress background noise and leakage on individual tracks in multitrack recording. 2. Increasing the dynamics of heavily compressed music, reshaping sampled sound envelopes and creating special effects for varying sound styles. 3. As a ducker in voice-over applications, for de-essing and for suppressing sounds during recording and reducing feedback in live situations. 4. Using the key filters as an independent equalizer section.

3.1 Initial settings

Different applications require control parameters. We will now illustrate the effects of the controls in some of the above applications. Once the function of each control is understood, you will find your own applications. 3.1.1 The gating function Gating is a so-called high ratio expander function and is the simplest function of the BEHRINGER INTELLIGATE. If the expander is used with a ratio of 30:1 and a maximum attenuation (RANGE control fully clockwise), this is termed hard gating. The gate function is used for auto-muting individual tracks in multitrack mixdown, automatically turning off open mics when they are not active, eliminating background noise and leakage from adjacent instruments on music tracks and for generating special effects. Especially in the processing of percussive instruments, it is recommended to use hard gating. Percussive instruments inherently exhibit fast transients. The following shall be discussed with some examples: When individual instruments are placed close to each other in a live area or concert hall, room reverberation and adjacent instrument crosstalk problems during pauses etc. become troublesome, even when the best close miking techniques are adopted. This undesirable effect known as crosstalk, can be precisely suppressed using the INTELLIGATE. Set the control and switches to the following positions:
Controls THRESHOLD control ATTACK control HOLD control RELEASE control RATIO control RANGE control KEY LISTEN switch KEY EXT switch FILTER switch IN/OUT switch Settings clockwise anticlockwise anticlockwise anticlockwise clockwise clockwise OUT OUT OUT IN
Tab. 3.1: Initial settings for the Gating function 14 3. APPLICATIONS
INTELLIGATE XR2000 THRESHOLD control Now adjust the THRESHOLD control anticlockwise, until the softest hit on the percussion instrument triggers the Expander so that the desired signal will pass unaffected. Triggering of the Expander will be monitored by the flash of the ABOVE LED. If you have correctly adjusted the unit, you will hear the instrument clearly stand out from the programme material. ATTACK control Most instruments are characterized by their typical initial profile. For example, instruments like piano, guitar, cymbals etc. are recognized by their short attack and particulary long release time. Increasing the attack time changes the envelope, especially on percussive instruments, whereby hard sounds generally become softer. Special attention should be paid to fast attack times! Especially with low frequency signals, such as bass drum and bass guitar etc. Extreme fast attack times can lead to switching noise (clicks). This effect will not be produced by the control feedthrough of the INTELLIGATE, but by the abrupt cut into the signals waveform above or below the zero crossing point. A slight prolongation of the attack time or a decrease in the ratio will help you to avoid this side effect. HOLD control Programme material (e.g. speech or vocal recordings) often contains short pauses which can lead to continuous triggering of the expander. The hold function prevents premature shutdown which is a problem with conventional gates, by delaying the release process. The result is, that the expander remains active during these short pauses. After the period of the adjusted hold time, the expander closes the audio channel dependent on the release function. RELEASE control Most percussion instruments have a longer decay time (e.g. the decay of cymbals). By adjusting the release time, this function offers the ability to follow the fade out of the instrument, in order to maintain the entire character of the sound. In this way you can prevent a too short release time from affecting the natural decay and the additional ambient sound of the instrument. For signals with long durations or signals with heavy ambience, it is advantageous, to choose long release times. You will find, that a fast release time is more preferable for accustic separation of most percussive sounds, whilst cymbals and tom toms normally benefit from slower release times. If the controls are set correctly, the drum sounds will be dry, sharp and clearly defined. RANGE control The RANGE control defines the amount of maximum attenuation of the audio signal. For instruments with longer decay times, it is advantageous to adjust the RANGE control to a mid position, in order not to cut off the signal completely. Although the INTELLIGATE allows for a maximum attenuation of 100 dB, generally it is not useful to attenuate a signal by this value. With noisy signals in particular, it is recommended to limit the attenuation by a value of 10 to 20 dB, in order not to let the onset of the expander become too noticeable. 3.1.2 The EXPANDER function In contrast to the gate function, the expander function is based on gradual attenuation, as soon as the signal falls below the threshold level. RATIO control With this control, you determine whether the INTELLIGATE functions as a gate or an expander. If for instance, a music programme has been heavily compressed during recording, the lost dynamics can be subsequently restored by a complimentary expansion. With some finger-tip-feeling, the following controls can be adjusted by ear, so that original dynamics can be restored. It is recommended to adjust the RATIO control to values of about 1.2:1 to 1.6:1 in order to achieve a gentle expansion and to adjust the THRESHOLD control, so, that the entire dynamic range of the music lies below the threshold. Adjust the THRESHOLD control in this manner, so that only the loudest passages exceed the threshold. This can be monitored by the flashing ABOVE LED. This will now result in a downward expansion, which is only restricted by the adjustment of the RANGE control. It is recommended to adjust the RANGE control to values of about 20 to 30 dB. 3. APPLICATIONS 15

3.4 Main applications

3.4.1 Controlling leakage in the studio Expander/gates are most commonly used to suppress undesirable leakage of sound from one track to another during recording or playback. They are usually used when recording drum kits, where the mics are very close to each other. High volume levels on individual instruments often cause considerable leakage into all the adjacent mics and results in conflicting frequency and phase coherence problems, as well as unspecified sounds (comb filter effects). It is vitally important, that every instrument is recorded into a separate mic and that each mix is individually gated. Insert the BEHRINGER INTELLIGATE into a snare drum channel for example and adjust it so that triggering only occurs when the snare drum is played. Each mic should be set to its maximum operating level, monitored (see KEY LISTEN switch) and the THRESHOLD level set so that each snare hit sounds acoustically clean and separate. 16 3. APPLICATIONS
INTELLIGATE XR2000 As well as this, an extremely quick attack time is necessary for very fast transients, so that the expander does not loose the initial transients and affect the sound. 3.4.2 Reducing leakage in stage mics The INTELLIGATE has many uses especially in live-work, on stage and in multi-miking situations: a well set up expander can effectively suppress background noise, compressor type pumping noise and microphone leakage etc. without producing any undesirable side effects. Expanders are commonly used for processing vocals. When specifically used with a compressor, the distance and position of the mic in relation to the singer is very critical: the further the distance, the more sensitive the mic is to background noise. Use the Expander to eliminate background noise inaudibly, that occurs in pauses between the singing. When used in live situations, leakage of miked instrumentation is substantially reduced, as well as other acoustic contaminants in various recording situations. If you do not have enough mics (or INTELLIGATE channels) to record each instrument separately, try to create sub-groups: put the snare and mid-toms together, and group the side-toms, bass drum and cymbals together with the help of a mixing console. The aim is to set up the expander and to position the group mics so that each strike on an instrument opens a specific mic and only that instrument is recorded, whilst the other mics remain muted. 3.4.3 Reducing feedback in stage mics When a singer is using a vocal mic, their voice effectively stops other sounds from entering the mic. But in pauses between the singing, the mic will pick up noise from the house PA and monitors, which can lead to unpleasant feedback problems. If the INTELLIGATE is inserted into the mic channel, it will shut off the channel when it is not being used, reducing the possibility of feedback. Principally all mics should be included in this application.

Voice Over applications

The BEHRINGER INTELLIGATE can also be used to automatically reduce music to a background level, when an announcer is speaking through a microphone. This application is found in broadcasting, as well as in PA systems, where background music is automatically attenuated when an announcement is made. This application is known as voice-over ducking. For this purpose, the unit is used as an automatic fader and is controlled by the announcers microphone, which is connected to the KEY RETURN input via a preamplifier. The music output and the announcers voice are then mixed.
Fig. 5.1: The INTELLIGATE when used in a Voice Over application Please proceed as follows: 1. To automatically control a mono music signal, insert this signal into channel 1 of the BEHRINGER INTELLIGATE. 2. Connect the preamplified mic signal to the audio input of channel 2. If you want to include a stereo signal into the voice over process, connect the left and right channel to channel 1 and 2 of the BEHRINGER INTELLIGATE. In this case, the microphone signal is fed directly into the KEY RETURN input of channel 1. 3. Connect the KEY SEND output of channel 2 to the KEY RETURN input of channel 1. 4. Activate the DUCKER switch and the KEY EXT switch on channel 1. 5. Adjust the THRESHOLD control of channel 1 so that the ABOVE LED flashes when the mic signal has reached its normal level. 6. Adjust the RANGE control of channel 1 about mid position. With this control you adjust the range of the voice over function. We recommend a starting point of about 10 to 20 dB. 7. Adjust the RATIO control of channel 1 to about mid position. Low ratios reduce the sensitivity of the voice over function, whereas high settings increase the effect. 8. Activate the COUPLE switch and the IN/OUT switches of both channels. Both channels are now controlled by the settings of channel 1s controls. All of channel 2s controls are inoperative. 9. Adjust now the RANGE, RELEASE and HOLD controls, in order to achieve the desired voice-over ducking action. By inserting the microphone signal into channel 2, you achieve an additional gate or expander function, as the microphone signal now controls the DUCKER function of the music programme as well. If you do not require this function, connect the microphone signal directly to the KEY RETURN input of channel 1. 5.3.1 The Voice Over application in conference room situations The voice over ducking mode can for example also be used to great advantage in a conference room with a multiple mic PA system to provide the chairman of a conference with the necessary acoustic domination. The mic channel used by the chairman of a conference can be additionally used as a control signal for the voiceover function. Whenever the head speakers microphone is used, the submix of the mics used by the other members of the conference will be automatically attenuated. 5. EXTERNAL SIDECHAIN APPLICATIONS 21