Furman Introduces SRM-80 Signal Router/Monitor for Project Studios
January 28, 1999 Furman Sound, Inc., a leading manufacturer of power conditioning/distribution
equipment and signal processing equipment for audio professionals, introduced
the SRM-80 Signal Router/Monitor at the NAMM Show in Los Angeles, January 28-31.
"The SRM-80 is the beginning of Furman's new focus on our signal processing
line," says Joe Desmond, National/International Sales Manager for Furman.
"The SRM-80 is a unique, multifunction problem-solver: it makes mixdown
and dubbing simple, professional and affordable."
The SRM-80 provides signal routing and monitoring for four stereo devices (such
as DAT, cassette, Mini Disc, and CD-R) plus the main console output. The SRM-80
facilitates mixdown and dubbing between different media types without tying
up additional console channels. Multiple copies can all be made simultaneously
through use of the SRM-80's "Source Select" switches.
Monitoring any of these sources can be done using the built-in, high-power
headphone amp, or using the SRM-80's extensive and uniquely thought out speaker
selection system. By simply connecting the control room outputs of your mixer,
inputs and outputs of one stereo power amplifier, and up to three pairs of speakers,
you will have a highly useful and sophisticated audio playback monitor system.
Since each speaker pair has its own front panel level control, equal loudness
can be maintained despite differences in speaker efficiencies. Additionally,
one power amp can be used to power two entirely different sets of speakers.
The SRM-80 has balanced inputs and outputs for the SOURCE input and A INPUTS,
and for the amplifier sends. INPUT B through D utilize RCA jacks. The SRM-80
allows easy signal routing between these dissimilar jacks, and also converts
between professional products' +4 dB levels and consumer products' -10 dB signal
levels as needed.
The SRM-80 provides a high-resolution 40 LED x 2 bar graph to monitor the level
signal selected for listening (via the headphone or speakers). The meter displays
a pre-fader signal for accurate monitoring of the signal going to tape. This
meter has true VU ballistics, or can be switched to Peak Program Mode via the
front panel toggle switch. The meter also features a slow release-time peak-hold
function. This allows easy verification of critical levels, and helps avoid
overload (i.e. digital clipping, tape saturation).
The SRM-80's Mono Sum feature provides the ability to do the vital task of
checking for radio compatibility. (Only the send to the headphones/speakers
is affected.) While radio airplay is nearly always stereo these days, phasing
problems and odd panning arrangements can show up in less than ideal listening
environments, such as cars, and many locations in nightclubs. Therefore, it
can be beneficial to do a MONO check. The SRM-80 also features a "Dim"
switch to allow an easy way to lower the level temporarily without disturbing
any level controls. For more information, visit Furman at http://www.furmansound.com/ | 
