Sonifex RB-TGHDX Multi-channel HD Tone Generator, XLR Outputs

Sonifex RB-TGHDX Multi-channel HD Tone Generator, XLR 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.

There are two versions of the RB-TGHD that offer digital and analogue audio outputs. While the RB-TGHDB features unbalanced digital audio outputs on BNC connectors, the RB-TGHDX provides balanced AES/EBU digital audio outputs on 3 pin XLR connectors. Eight balanced analog outputs are available on three-pin XLR connectors for both types. Synchronizing the digital outputs to an external signal is possible with a wordclock synchronizing input on a BNC connector. An RB-SYA or RB-SYD video sync board may be installed as an optional feature to synchronize the device with a digital or analogue sync signal. When the device is in sync with the external signal, a SYNC LED on the front panel indicates it.

With the front panel mounted DIP switches, the RB-TGHD's audio level line-up may be changed from 0dBu to +24dBu in 1dBu steps (ref FSD) to accommodate various settings. The gain relationship between each channel remains unchanged when the audio line-up is altered, guaranteeing that the target system may continue to operate at the proper levels. Additionally, these switches offer settings for digital sample width (either 16 bit or 24 bit) and digital sample rate (which spans from 32 kHz to 192 kHz). 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.