Messages

1

Tape Tech / Re: Dolby A Decoders

« on: September 23, 2012, 07:15:26 AM »

OK, the Dolby 320 type-B I was offered is now hooked up to my recording system, analog console+24 tracks digital recorder.
Yes, it works @ +4 operating level...
Like I said, it was so cheap that I almost could not refuse.
I've been curious for years to hear a Dolby A-301 in action: my idea was to hook up the 320 type-B as an insert to various prerecorded tracks and listen to the effect imparted...
Which I did and found out channel B is doing something to audio: I would call it the sound of sweeping compression on higher frequencies (according to Dolby literature, the type-B emphasis kinda works in conjunction with a HP filter: the stronger the input level, the higher the frequency emphasized).
On vocals it's nice, not so nice on percussive tracks; nice again on acoustic gtr, weird on electric (clicks on note attack).
Unfortunately channel A doesn't sound so active: I doubt it's working properly.
The cool part is that you can easily swap cards and listen, but I haven't had the time to do so...
DOES ANYBODY KNOW OF AN EXISTING OPERATING AND SERVICING MANUAL?
Thanks a lot.
Best, regards.
Gabe

2

Tape Tech / Re: Dolby A Decoders

« on: September 16, 2012, 12:44:30 AM »

Steve,
my concern is about operating level mismatch... since signal level is what Dolby machines look at to perform well their task.
I guess I'll find out in a few days when I'll have the chance to try out the specific piece of gear.
Thanks for now!

3

Tape Tech / Re: Dolby A Decoders

« on: September 15, 2012, 01:05:56 AM »

Hello everybody!
OK, TPF tells me it's been 120 days since the last post but I thought I might better keep this thread going and not start yet another new one...
My 1st post here at the forum, I am a sound engineer.
I've been learning about the Dolby A301 old trick that recording engineers did: pulling out cards to disengage compression of certan frequency bands when in record mode in order to get "sonic benefits".
I have been offered a Dolby B 320, which I understand is a totally different beast, but since it's so cheap I decided to give it a go.
Question: is the Dolby B 320 working at pro level, +4 dB?
Thank you in advance for your contribution.
Regards, Gabe