Studiomaster
VMS - Vocal Management System - Press
Release April 2006
Studiomaster announce
a world first in live sound signal processing dedicated just to
the vocalist. Called the Vocal Management System it’s the only
product to combine a studio grade mic preamp, noise gate, compressor,
graphic equaliser and effects processor all in a single space
rack mount unit. As a joint project between Studiomaster &
Court Acoustics, utilising their collective expertise in live
sound and signal processing, the VMS brings studio quality processing
to all singers at a fraction of the price equivalent out board
processors cost.
One of the key features of the VMS is the
pre set optically controlled dynamics processor, the result of
extensive development with help from a number of studio and live
sound engineers. Research has shown for vocal work compressors
tend to be set in a similar way so all the controls such as attack,
ratio etc can be internally set removing complexity for the user
and ensuring good results. The noise gate has threshold adjustment
(sited on the rear panel) and the ideal setting marked as an aid
to first time set up.
To complement the dynamics section, an all new mic preamp (using
xlr/jack input connectors on the front and rear panel) has been
designed with a switchable 80Hz high pass filter and 48V phantom
power. A six position ‘Voice’ switch controls the gain simplifying
set up for the performer.
A seven band graphic equaliser, using carefully selected frequencies,
is ideal for the male and female voice and more user friendly
than typical rotary sweep mid configurations. With a useful 9dB
of cut and boost, illuminated fader shafts also give quick visual
confirmation of settings.
The DSP features six ‘classic Studiomaster’ vocal effects all
with their own buttons, so no menu scrolling. The DSP can be turned
on and off via front panel or foot switch and an illuminated fader
controls its mix level.
The vast improvement the VMS makes to any dry vocal sound can
be instantly compared using the bypass switch.
Output is via balanced xlr and jack sockets with a mic/line level
switch. An insert send/return and direct output complete the rear
panel connections. Finally, an 8 segment bargraph shows output
level and there’s a handy headphone socket mounted conveniently
on the front panel.
