DMC

Mastering Console

The DMC is the heart of the mastering studio. The converters, the players, the DAW, the recorders and the speakers are connected to it. The audio quality of the console is therefore crucial. Like all devices of the mastering series, the DMC works on the unparalleled 120V technology.

Inputs & Sources

Audio signals that shall be processed are connected to the Inputs and audio signals for comparison or playback are connected to the Sources. Four stereo inputs pairs are available for each.

 

Each input channel can be switched on/off, phase reversed and trimmed in 0.25 dB steps. A stereo input can be switched to mono.

 

The large potentiometer for the recording gain allows sensitive gain rides. If it is not used, it should not be activated. This keeps the entire control stage outside the signal path.

 

Recording Signal Flow

Monitoring & Inserts

Three pairs of speakers can be operated for full-range, mid-field and near-field monitors. Speakers D is for a mono loudspeaker.

 

Preferably a Phonitor headphone amplifier is connected to the Phonitor HP Out, whereby it can be programmed whether the loudspeaker is automatically switched off during headphone operation or not.

 

The same applies to the subwoofer. It can be programmed with which monitor it is paired and activated together.

 

The insert return can also be trimmed in 0.25 dB steps to compensate for the finest level differences after an insert chain. The Hermes Mastering Router is preferably connected to the inserts, with which up to eight stereo processors can be connected and freely routed and stored.

 

In the monitoring section, each loudspeaker channel can be solo’ed and phase reversed.

 

The large monitoring level potentiometer has an illuminated indicator so that the monitor level can be easily assessed even from a greater distance.

 

A loudness compensation (+/- 10 dB) can be activated. Alternatively it can be linked to the Insert, Sources or Inputs switches allowing loudness compensation at any stage.

 

Monitoring Signal Flow

DMC & MC 16

Yeah, it looks kind of wild. Makes sense, though.

 

The DMC can be linked to the MC16 for surround and immersive audio applications. Dolby Atmos® or Auro 3D® projects can also be realized. The MC16 is the world’s first analog 16 channel monitoring controller.

 

Mastering studios often use the L/R speakers and subwoofer for stereo and multi-channel monitoring. The combination of DMC with MC16 makes it unnecessary to replug these speakers.

 

Pressing the Speaker A button for two seconds transfers the volume control of L/R and Sub to the MC16 and pressing it again brings it back to the DMC. In this way, stereo and surround projects in a studio can easily be performed one after the other.

 

The 120V technology

The 120V technology is our reference technology. The 120V technology is unique in the world. It operates at a DC voltage of 120 volts. This is four times that of IC-based semiconductor op-amps.

The highest possible audio quality requires the highest possible audio operating voltage.

The 120V technology works with +/-60 V. To be able to handle such a high voltage, we have developed special proprietary operational amplifiers that can operate with a DC voltage of +/-60 V: the SPL 120V SUPRA operational amplifiers.

This high voltage would destroy conventional components and operational amplifiers.

 

The 120V technology achieves exceptional technical specifications and sonic benefits. Technically, in terms of dynamic range, signal-to-noise ratio and headroom. Sonically, in terms of richness of detail and an absolutely relaxed listening experience.

 

By the way, the “120V” in the name of the technology has nothing to do with the local mains voltage from the mains power socket. This is about the operating voltage inside the device with which the audio signals are processed.

 

The mains voltage from the mains power socket is transformed to the required secondary voltage in the device’s internal linear power supply with toroidal transformer. Rectifiers convert this AC voltage into DC voltage required in the audio device.

 

The idea for SPL 120V technology and the SUPRA operational amplifier based on this technology were developed in the 1990s by SPL founder and chief developer Wolfgang Neumann.

 

With the goal of building the best mastering console ever, this basic technological philosophy then took shape for the first time – thus the SPL MMC1 Mastering Console for Galaxy Studios saw the light of day in 2000.

The outstanding sonic and technical features quickly got around in the scene – so further orders were not long in coming.

Besides the MMC 1, another legendary product with 120V technology was created with the PQ, the “King of Parametric Equalizers”.

Since that time, 120V technology has been the foundation for all SPL premium products. Meanwhile, not only for mastering applications, but also for the, studio or hifi use.

 

Comparison

Most audio devices work with an internal operating voltage of +/-15 volts and can thus process a maximum input level of +21.5 dBu. If a DAC, for example, has an output level of +22 dBu at 0 dBFS, level peaks of the music material would already cause overloads in the input stage of the device.

 

All components in the audio device often operate at their limits. The result is an unsteady sound that causes stress and faster ear fatigue.

SPL devices with 120V technology can handle input levels of +32.5 dBu thanks to the higher internal operating voltage of +/- 60 volts – thus offering 12 dB more headroom. All components consequently operate continuously in the optimum operating range. The result is a very pleasant, natural and relaxed sound experience. So you can enjoy your music in every detail.

 

These diagrams clearly show the superiority of the 120V technology in comparison to other circuits with lower, common operating voltages.

In professional audio production, achieving pristine sound quality and precise control over your master output is paramount. The SPL Audio DMC Mastering Console is designed specifically for mastering engineers and studios that demand the highest fidelity and versatility in their monitoring chain. This console provides an unparalleled level of transparency and accuracy, ensuring that every nuance of your audio project is faithfully reproduced and controlled during the critical mastering phase. If you seek to elevate your mastering workflow with reliable, high-performance analog monitoring, the DMC Mastering Console offers a compelling solution.

One of the standout advantages of the SPL DMC Mastering Console lies in its exceptional analog input and output capabilities. With a maximum input and output gain of 32.5 dB, the console provides ample headroom to accommodate a wide range of signal levels without distortion. The input impedance of 20 kΩ and output impedance of 75 Ω are optimized for seamless integration with professional studio equipment, ensuring minimal signal loss and coloration. This means you can confidently connect your source devices and monitoring systems knowing that the console maintains the integrity of your audio signals.

The frequency response of the console, spanning an impressive 4 Hz to 300 kHz (-3 dB), guarantees that even the subtlest low-end frequencies and ultra-high harmonics are preserved. For mastering engineers, this translates into a monitoring environment where every detail of the audio spectrum is audible and analyzable. Furthermore, the noise performance is exemplary, with an A-weighted noise level of -101.6 dBu at the recording output and -103.9 dBu at the speaker output. This ultra-low noise floor allows for clean, distortion-free listening, critical when making precise tonal adjustments and dynamic decisions during mastering.

Distortion and noise figures are equally impressive, with Total Harmonic Distortion plus Noise (THD + N) exceeding 112 dB at the recording output and over 108 dB at the speaker output. Such low distortion ensures that the console’s sonic signature remains transparent, preserving the purity of your audio. Additionally, the internal linear power supply featuring a shielded toroidal transformer and operating voltages of ±60 V for analog audio provide stable, interference-free power. This design reduces electromagnetic interference and hum, which can otherwise compromise audio clarity, giving you a pristine listening environment.

The SPL DMC Mastering Console is thoughtfully designed for practical studio use. Its dimensions of 482 mm width, 132 mm height, and 300 mm depth (19 x 5.2 x 11.8 inches) make it a manageable yet substantial presence in any mastering suite, while its weight of 10.2 kg (22.49 lbs) reflects its robust build quality. The console can be powered from selectable mains voltages of 230 V AC/50 Hz or 115 V AC/60 Hz, accommodating global power standards with ease. Power consumption peaks at a modest 40 VA, ensuring efficient operation without excessive heat generation.

In real-world applications, the SPL DMC Mastering Console excels in delivering reliable, accurate monitoring control for mastering professionals who demand precision. Whether you are fine-tuning dynamics, balancing tonal elements, or evaluating mixes across various playback systems, the console offers comprehensive input/output flexibility and sonic purity. Its solid construction and thoughtful engineering support long sessions with consistent performance, making it an essential tool for studios focused on delivering world-class mastering results.

In summary, the SPL Audio DMC Mastering Console is a high-end mastering monitor controller that offers audiophile-grade clarity, robust connectivity, and low-noise operation in a durable, user-friendly package. By investing in this console, mastering engineers gain a reliable and transparent monitoring solution that facilitates critical listening and precise control. For professionals seeking to enhance their mastering environment with superior analog performance and practical design, the SPL DMC Mastering Console confidently delivers on every front.