Sonifex RB-TGHDB Multi-channel HD Tone Generator, BNC Outputs

Sonifex RB-TGHDB Multi-channel HD Tone Generator, BNC Outputs

An 8-channel audio tone generator called the RB-TGHD can identify lines in multi-channel audio systems, such as the 5.1 and 7.1 surround sound systems commonly used in high-definition TV shows. Channel identification and related levels can be quickly ascertained by utilizing a variety of commonly used industry standard tone sequences, such as the EBU R49, GLITS, and BLITS tones. A broadcaster mixing multiple audio channels into a stereo feed can also highlight the proper channel arrangement in fold-down mixes.

The RB-TGHD supports 2, 4, 6, and 8 channel configurations. Every audio tone sequence that is available for each channel configuration can be chosen manually or automatically cycled through, and a loop mode allows tones to be replayed in patterns. These settings are selected by a bank of four pushbuttons on the front panel, and the corresponding LEDs show the setting that is currently in use. Eight LEDs on the front panel, numbered 1 through 8, as well as L, R, C, LFE, LS, RS, LR, and RR, show which channel is now playing audio.

The RB-TGHD is available in two variations, each providing both analogue and digital audio outputs. The RB-TGHDX offers balanced AES/EBU digital audio outputs on 3 pin XLR connectors and the RB-TGHDB has unbalanced digital audio outputs on BNC connectors. Both types provide 8 balanced analogue outputs on 3 pin XLR connectors. A wordclock synchronising input on BNC connector allows the digital outputs to be synchronised to an external signal. Optionally, an RB-SYA or RB-SYD video sync board can be fitted, to synchronise the unit to either an analogue or digital sync signal. A SYNC LED on the front panel indicates when the unit is synchronised to the external signal. The audio level line-up of the RB-TGHD can be adjusted from 0dBu to +24dBu in 1dBu steps (ref FSD) to suit different environments via the front panel mounted DIP switches. Changing the audio line-up does not affect the gain relationship between each channel, ensuring that correct levels through the target system can be maintained. These switches also provide settings for digital sample rate which ranges from 32 kHz to 192 kHz, and digital sample width which is either 16 bit or 24 bit.

The serial port allows the RB-TGHD to be connected to a PC running SCi, the Sonifex Serial Control Interface. This allows full control of the unit and the ability to generate a user defined audio tone sequence. In addition, a remote port on the rear provides a simple interface to control the unit and has several outputs to indicate which tone sequence is active.