Concept
Coding a stereo signal into a mid- and a side-channel instead of the traditional subdivision in left and
right, offers groundbreaking new possibilities in the mixing and mastering process. Specific manipulations
of the mid- and side channels can achieve great improvement of the spatial image of a recording
regarding both depth and left- right imaging. Especially for the control of the spatial image during vinyl
mastering precise mid-side-editing is indispensable. The transformation of left-right to mid-side signals
and vice versa, however, was comparatively complex up to now.
Being a completely analog tool for the flexible editing of stereo signals, the W2344 MK2 RS-MATRIX offers
the solution for those problems. Besides two switchable stereo inputs the first section provides precise
level controls for left and right input channel, a summing possibility for left and right channel for an easy
control of the mono compatibility of the signal, and a phase reverse switch for the left channel.
Thereupon the signal path features two insert points for external signal processors, which can be
individually switched from M/S to L/R-operation via simple ELMA rotary switches. The bypass-setting is
located in the middle position of the switches, allowing the direct comparison of the processed signal with
the original without hearing the other stereo configuration for a short moment during the switching
process.
Between those insert points an advanced filter section is located, offering each one fully parametric filter
for mid and side channel. The possible center frequencies of the filters differ from each other, since they
have been optimized for use in the mid and side channels respectively. Both circuits can also be used as
high or low-pass filters.
The feature set is completed with phase-correct solo switches for mid and side channel, as well as a stereo
width control, which allows a smooth control of the spatial image utilizing the mix ratio between mid and
side channel. The control range reaches from zero (mono, mid signal only) up to doubled stereo width
(side channel 6 dB louder than mid channel).
Controls of the W2344 MK2 RS-MATRIX
“source 1/2”
Switches the input circuit between the two stereo inputs.
“L+R”
Sums the left and right input channel to control the mono compatibility
of the signal
“phase L”
Phase reverse of the left input channel
“L<->R”
Swaps left and right input channel
“input level”
These potentiometers allow the levels of the left and right input channels to be adjusted in a range of +/-
5 dB. The potentiometers are stepped for an easy recall of their settings.
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