Look-ahead vs. Low-latency processing on Optimod 8400

[whit979]

OK folks, I know that I've posted a bazillion messages about processing on the Optimod 8400, but I think I've just about got this figured out. Now I need some help concerning the 8400's look-ahead processing. I noticed that the unit offers a number of "low-latency" presets which apparently defeat look-ahead processing? What are the advantages and/or disadvantages of using low-latency mode on the 8400? Thanks...

 

[littlejohn]

'low latency' allows you to monitor the output in real time - either off - air or directly. If there's a pronounced latency in the box, it won't work for the jock to monitor its output. A look - ahead system which buffers the audio a bit and cogitates over it has the ability to do a bit better job in some instances. If you use program delay, or delay the analog to match up with HD, the low latency is a loss anyway., Let the thing do its best, anduse something to process the jock's headphones.

 

[wgliradio]

Find a couple of old CRL processors and set them in the jocks audio path. Let the 8400 do as best it can by using a preset with the highest amount of delay. Keep OFF AIR in the studio monitors but make the jock cans the in-house processors.

Old trick... I remember seeing Z-100 in the mid 90's (when real-time processing was still on the air). They were using a second airchain JUST for the jocks cans. This was so they could diddle the on-air chain without bitching and moaning from the jocks since "their" sound never changes.

Don't forget to add idiot lights so that the idiots know they are off the air (since they are not monitoring the actual off air signal at all times anymore).

If you think about it, all this work for a slightly cleaner sound that how many real users will actually notice? :-\

 

[stace]

On More FM Auckland years ago we changed an Optimod 8100 to an Omnia 6 which has about 6ms delay. It's a good way to play a trick on the Jock, they have no idea whats going on, it sounds like your in a can. From my experience, you get used to the sound in your headphones, I actually quite like it, but it's a shock initally. So we installed an Aphex 2020 to process the headphones.