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DRC
DRC is an acronym for Dynamic Range Compensation.
For audio material, Dynamic Range generally refers to the difference between the quietest
and loudest portions of the audio signal. In theory, humans have an audio Dynamic Range
of about 140dB, however in practice, our ears adjust to the prevailing volume level in the
same way our eyes adjust to light levels, making it difficult to see in the dark if exposed to
bright light.
Dynamic Range Compensation is used to reduce the amount of difference between the
quietest and loudest portions of the audio signal. This is generally perceived negatively by
audiophiles and, because Monolith™ by Monoprice products are true audiophile products,
the feature is disabled by default.
The DRC feature built into this Desktop Headphone Amplifier starts with an LPF/HPF to
split low and high frequencies (24dB/octave filters at 140Hz). This is followed by two
independent stereo compressors and a mixer to combine the compressed low and high
frequency bands. The DRC operates on the pre-volume control signal, so the DRC threshold
level refers to the level of the incoming signal source.
The Threshold value determines at which point the DRC takes effect.
The Ratio value determines how much compression is added to the signal. The
lowest setting (1.2:1) will have minimal effect, while the highest level (8.0:1) will have
an audible "squashing" effect on your mix.
LF Offset is essentially a separate gain stage for just the LF signal below 140Hz. You
can reduce or enhance the bass using the DRC similar to how studio and concert
sound engineers use multiband compression.
Perform the following steps to configure and use the DRC feature:
1.
Momentarily press the Menu Button. The Display will show EQ [1/4].
2.
Rotate the Value Knob clockwise until the Display shows DRC [2/4].
3.
Momentarily press the Enter Button. The Display will show DRC [1/4] with a pointer
to the left of the ENABLE label.
4.
Rotate the Value Knob until the value for ENABLE is ON.
