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Phonitor
Dim
The Dim function reduces the listening level (Volume) by around 20 dB.
Normally you employ this function when mixing to choose between
two defined volumes to avoid having to move the Volume control. A
dim value of 20 dB has established itself as good standard.
You can also use the Dim function to adjust among differences in
headphone impedance and the resulting sensitivity differences. The
Phonitor output and the optimal Volume level is based on the studio
standard, 600 Ohms headphone impedance.
However, there are many headphones which employ a lesser imped-
ance, for example 250 Ohms or even only 50 Ohms. Such headphones
effect a much louder level. A 50 Ohms headphone thus yields a rela-
tively loud minimum volume level. In such a case, the useful range of
an amplifier’s output level control or potentiometer is much more lim-
ited. Here you may use the Dim function to reestablish a useful range
for the volume control. The high component and circuitry quality of the
Phonitor guarantees that despite activating the Dim function there is
no measurable degradation of the signal quality.
Please note that the VU meter always displays the -20 dB damping
when Dim is activated. You may activate the +6dB Meter Cal. setting to
avoid that the needle sticks to the left – and add 14 dB to the displayed
values to translate to actual input levels.
Control Elements
Meter Mode, Meter Cal., Dim
-20
OFF
DIM