MP-200 Operation Manual
Introduction
Okay, now that the knob tweakers are off frantically looking for patch cables to play with their new goodie,
the rest of us can relax and take a few minutes to peruse through this manual...
The AudioControl Industrial MP-200 is a compact, portable, battery powered, two-channel measurement
microphone preamp system. The MP-200 provides all the tools necessary to make accurate acoustical
measurements with your computer-based audio analysis system. The small size and battery power makes it
especially well suited for traveling with laptop computers.
AudioControl Industrial has been designing and manufacturing audio analysis equipment in the United
States since 1977. The AudioControl Industrial SA-3050 real-time audio analyzer is still the world’s most
popular analyzer. The MP-200 is designed to our high quality standards to meet the needs of audio profes-
sionals and enthusiasts alike.
Measurement microphones versus recording microphones
The fundamental difference between a microphone intended for measurements and one for recording or live
performance is calibration. A measurement microphone is calibrated against an absolute reference for
frequency response and sound pressure level output. This means that a measurement grade microphone will
have a very neutral sonic character and not change the frequency response of the signal. Recording micro-
phones on the other hand almost always have a very distinct “sound” to them. Some mics are better for
vocals while others are great for kick drums. This is because these mics have an equalization in their
frequency response to enhance specific portions of the audio spectrum. It is this equalization that makes
recording and performance microphones unsuitable for making audio analysis measurements.
The CM-10 measurement microphone included with your MP-200 preamp was calibrated at our factory to
meet or exceed its published specifications.
Features of the MP-200
Two Channel Microphone Preamp - Allows two microphone inputs for comparison between two acoustic
locations.
Microphone And Line-Level Inputs - Channel 2 on the MP-200 is selectable between mic or line level
inputs.
Switched Step-Gain Control - The MP-200 features discrete switch-stepped, microphone gain control for
repeatable audio measurements. The mic gain level is selectable in 10db steps from 0dB to +40dB.
Measurement Microphone - The CM-10 is a measurement-grade microphone. This calibrated mic fea-
tures a ¼" back-electret condenser element with rugged polyester diaphragm.
Digital Pink Noise Generator - A lab-quality test signal source for audio analysis. Features an automatic
power control when a plug is inserted into the pink noise output jack to conserve battery power.
94dB SPL Acoustic Reference LED - For accurate sound level measurements, this LED provides a
known sound level reference for calibrating analysis software.
Portable Battery Operation - The 9 volt battery provides over ten hours of portable operation. Perfect for
use with laptop computer-based analyzer systems.
Summary of Contents for MP-200
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