TC Electronic launches DB2 cost-effective stereo and dual-mono DTV processor

At NAB show 2009, Las Vegas, TC Electronic announced new software version for its acknowledged DB4 and DB8 Loudness Control Processors. In response to market demands, TC Electronic also launches the DB2 cost-effective stereo and dual-mono DTV processor at NAB. Ensuring consistent audio levels for viewers is a major challenge for terrestrial and cable broadcasters, many of whom have installed DB4 and DB8 processors to provide precise loudness control and, as a result, reduce viewer complaints. The new two-channel DB2 Loudness Control Processor incorporates TC Electronic’s advanced algorithms in an easy-to-operate 1U unit. The DB range of processors can accommodate from dual-mono / stereo up to 5.1-channel signal paths – including Upmixing and Downmixing – and incorporates the latest ITU BS1770 Loudness Control analysis. Availability information will follow the NAB Show. “The DB2 is a perfect choice for dual-mono/stereo operation,” considers Ed Simeone, TC Electronic VP of Sales-HD. “The DB2’s performance and preset compatibility are identical to the DB4 and DB8 and, like its siblings, offers high-quality loudness correction without metadata dependence. It is compatible with the latest ITU and EBU audio standards. An upgrade path also is available, meaning that future expansion is already built into the entire DB range.” The DB2 offers broadcasters several connection options for both simple integration within a 75-ohm AES-3 system, and for legacy analog-based systems. The DB2 is controlled remotely with TC Electronics’s Icon software, allowing direct parameter control and preset switching from any location. Processing blocks include Loudness Correction, Five-Band Level Optimization, and Emphasis -Compensated Limiting. Combination of these blocks ensures that signals are at their optimum before transmission. “To cover O&Os and affiliates, as well as large production centers, DTV broadcasters need scalable solutions,” Simeone continues. “Typically, O&Os and affiliates insert commercials and local content, for which application the DB2 is well suited. Because the processor is preset compatible with our DB4 and DB8, a main production center can even specify presets for the regional stations and cable outlets, thereby ensuring a consistent, network-wide strategy for loudness control.”
Also TC Electronic announces version 2.0 software for their DB4 and DB8 loudness processors. The new software, which integrates LM5D – radar loudness meter – is now available for free download. The DB4 and DB8 processors are capable of real-time loudness and format control for multiple optimized transmission feeds, such as HDTV, SDTV, Mobile TV, Internet, and more. Both processors automate loudness control and 5.1 Upmixing while assuring station compliance with current loudness standards (including the latest ITU BS.1770 measurements). Using the LM5D meter with the DB4 and DB8 processors, broadcasters can monitor level changes on an intuitive interface and observe these changes over a definable period of time ranging from 1 minute to 24 hours. The LM5D software is part of the universal ITU concept, whereby audio may easily and consistently be measured and controlled at various stages of production and distribution. These TC processors are also capable of working cohesively with equipment made by other manufacturers that adhere to the same global standard. “We have been anticipating v2.0 software for a while and TC’s R&D did not disappoint,” said Ed Simeone. “The LM5D meter delivers the long term loudness number that broadcasters are willing to pay thousands of dollars for. Now it’s a free update in the DB4 and DB8, and in these difficult times you can’t beat free!”