Cedar dns2000 User manual
Page 2 Page 3
Table of Contents
Introduction................................................................................................. 4
Host System Requirements......................................................................... 5
DNS2000 Firmware ..................................................................................... 5
Assumed Knowledge.................................................................................. 5
Safety Instructions ...................................................................................... 6
Setting up the DNS2000 ............................................................................. 7
Unpacking ..............................................................................................7
Installation Site .......................................................................................7
Rear Panel Connections .........................................................................7
The Remote Control Software ..................................................................... 8
Installation ..............................................................................................8
Using the DNS2000 within Pro Tools ......................................................9
Software Controls...................................................................................... 10
DNS2000 Specific Controls ..................................................................10
Generic Pro Tools Plug-in Controls .......................................................11
Automation ...........................................................................................11
Hardware Indicators ................................................................................. 12
USB LEDs ............................................................................................. 12
Input LEDs ............................................................................................12
Off / On LEDs - Channel 1 & Channel 2 ...............................................12
Range LEDs - Channel 1 & Channel 2 .................................................13
Gain LEDs - Channel 1 & Channel 2 ....................................................13
Tutorial....................................................................................................... 14
Selecting a DNS2000 Processor ..........................................................14
Range Selector .....................................................................................15
Level Control ........................................................................................15
Band Gain Controls ..............................................................................15
Case Studies............................................................................................. 16
Suppressing traffic noise and other ambient sound ............................16
Suppressing tape hiss .......................................................................... 18
Suppressing excessive reverberation ..................................................19
Troubleshooting Non-CEDAR Components .............................................. 20
Specifications ........................................................................................... 21
General.................................................................................................21
Audio ....................................................................................................21
EMC Regulations ...................................................................................... 21
Declaration of conformity .....................................................................21
License and Limited Warranty .................................................................. 22
Page 2 Page 3
Table of Contents
Introduction................................................................................................. 4
Host System Requirements......................................................................... 5
DNS2000 Firmware ..................................................................................... 5
Assumed Knowledge.................................................................................. 5
Safety Instructions ...................................................................................... 6
Setting up the DNS2000 ............................................................................. 7
Unpacking ..............................................................................................7
Installation Site .......................................................................................7
Rear Panel Connections .........................................................................7
The Remote Control Software ..................................................................... 8
Installation ..............................................................................................8
Using the DNS2000 within Pro Tools ......................................................9
Software Controls...................................................................................... 10
DNS2000 Specific Controls ..................................................................10
Generic Pro Tools Plug-in Controls .......................................................11
Automation ...........................................................................................11
Hardware Indicators ................................................................................. 12
USB LEDs ............................................................................................. 12
Input LEDs ............................................................................................12
Off / On LEDs - Channel 1 & Channel 2 ...............................................12
Range LEDs - Channel 1 & Channel 2 .................................................13
Gain LEDs - Channel 1 & Channel 2 ....................................................13
Tutorial....................................................................................................... 14
Selecting a DNS2000 Processor ..........................................................14
Range Selector .....................................................................................15
Level Control ........................................................................................15
Band Gain Controls ..............................................................................15
Case Studies............................................................................................. 16
Suppressing traffic noise and other ambient sound ............................16
Suppressing tape hiss .......................................................................... 18
Suppressing excessive reverberation ..................................................19
Troubleshooting Non-CEDAR Components .............................................. 20
Specifications ........................................................................................... 21
General.................................................................................................21
Audio ....................................................................................................21
EMC Regulations ...................................................................................... 21
Declaration of conformity .....................................................................21
License and Limited Warranty .................................................................. 22
Page 4 Page 5
INTRODUCTION
In 2000, CEDAR Audio launched the DNS1000 dynamic noise suppressor. This is
a stand-alone, desktop-format unit designed specifically for film production,
dubbing, outside broadcast (remote) and studio noise suppression.
The format of the DNS1000 is ideal for replacing analogue units that have been in
use for many years, and for use in situations where rapid setup and processing is
required ‘on the fly’. However, it does not offer automation, nor can it be linked to
a digital audio workstation other than by its audio connectors. So we designed
the DNS2000…
The DNS2000 is a combination of a rackmount unit that provides audio I/O and
nearly 200MFLOPS of processing power, plus remote control software for your
Pro Tools host system. With just a single USB control connection between the
DNS2000 hardware and the host, the DNS2000 is very simple and quick to install.
Once you have loaded the DNS2000 remote control software, you can control all
aspects of the DNS2000 from within Pro Tools, and automate all its operating
parameters. Quality, speed and simplicity are paramount considerations in the
DNS2000 design, and its features include the following:
■Near zero latency
The DNS2000 has a group delay of less than 10 samples (typically less
than 1/200th of a frame) so there is no loss of lip-sync when using it.
■Flexibility
The DNS2000 will handle a wide range of noise suppression
requirements.
■Speed and ease of use
The DNS2000 offers a carefully designed user-interface that maximises
speed of use.
■Audio interfaces
The DNS2000 incorporates a 24-bit digital audio interface conforming to
both AES/EBU and SPDIF standards.
■Universal power supply
Its universal power supply means that a DNS2000 will work anywhere in
the world.
■Powerful processor
A 40-bit floating point DSP processor delivers up to 198MFLOPS so that
the DNS2000 will handle the most complex processing requirements.
HOST SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS
Macintosh OS-X users:
The DNS2000 should be used with Pro Tools version 6 or later. Any Macintosh
with a free USB port running Mac OS-X and a suitable version of Pro Tools will
support the OS-X version of the DNS2000 Remote Control Software and
processor unit.
Macintosh OS9.xx users:
We recommend that the DNS2000 should be used with Pro Tools version 5.1.1 or
later. Any Macintosh with a free USB port running Mac OS 9.xx and a suitable
version of Pro Tools will support the OS9 version of the DNS2000 Remote Control
Software and processor unit.
DNS2000 FIRMWARE
If you intend to use the DNS2000 with a Macintosh running OS-X, the DNS2000
hardware will require version 2 firmware. This is supplied as standard with all
units shipped on or after 1 September 2003. Units originally shipped for use
under OS9.xx and which incorporate version 1 firmware must be upgraded to
version 2. The upgrade software is provided on your DNS2000 installation CD as:
OS 10:Firmware Upgrade:DNS2000 Firmware Upgrade.command
Double-click to run this programme, and follow the on-screen instructions.
If the DNS2000 hardware already has version 2 firmware installed, the
programme will return an error message informing you that there is no need to
upgrade.
ASSUMED KNOWLEDGE
This manual assumes that you are fully conversant with your Macintosh computer
and MacOS, and that you know how to operate your Pro Tools host system. It will
refer to operations that are common to these products, but will not attempt to
explain them.
Page 4 Page 5
INTRODUCTION
In 2000, CEDAR Audio launched the DNS1000 dynamic noise suppressor. This is
a stand-alone, desktop-format unit designed specifically for film production,
dubbing, outside broadcast (remote) and studio noise suppression.
The format of the DNS1000 is ideal for replacing analogue units that have been in
use for many years, and for use in situations where rapid setup and processing is
required ‘on the fly’. However, it does not offer automation, nor can it be linked to
a digital audio workstation other than by its audio connectors. So we designed
the DNS2000…
The DNS2000 is a combination of a rackmount unit that provides audio I/O and
nearly 200MFLOPS of processing power, plus remote control software for your
Pro Tools host system. With just a single USB control connection between the
DNS2000 hardware and the host, the DNS2000 is very simple and quick to install.
Once you have loaded the DNS2000 remote control software, you can control all
aspects of the DNS2000 from within Pro Tools, and automate all its operating
parameters. Quality, speed and simplicity are paramount considerations in the
DNS2000 design, and its features include the following:
■Near zero latency
The DNS2000 has a group delay of less than 10 samples (typically less
than 1/200th of a frame) so there is no loss of lip-sync when using it.
■Flexibility
The DNS2000 will handle a wide range of noise suppression
requirements.
■Speed and ease of use
The DNS2000 offers a carefully designed user-interface that maximises
speed of use.
■Audio interfaces
The DNS2000 incorporates a 24-bit digital audio interface conforming to
both AES/EBU and SPDIF standards.
■Universal power supply
Its universal power supply means that a DNS2000 will work anywhere in
the world.
■Powerful processor
A 40-bit floating point DSP processor delivers up to 198MFLOPS so that
the DNS2000 will handle the most complex processing requirements.
HOST SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS
Macintosh OS-X users:
The DNS2000 should be used with Pro Tools version 6 or later. Any Macintosh
with a free USB port running Mac OS-X and a suitable version of Pro Tools will
support the OS-X version of the DNS2000 Remote Control Software and
processor unit.
Macintosh OS9.xx users:
We recommend that the DNS2000 should be used with Pro Tools version 5.1.1 or
later. Any Macintosh with a free USB port running Mac OS 9.xx and a suitable
version of Pro Tools will support the OS9 version of the DNS2000 Remote Control
Software and processor unit.
DNS2000 FIRMWARE
If you intend to use the DNS2000 with a Macintosh running OS-X, the DNS2000
hardware will require version 2 firmware. This is supplied as standard with all
units shipped on or after 1 September 2003. Units originally shipped for use
under OS9.xx and which incorporate version 1 firmware must be upgraded to
version 2. The upgrade software is provided on your DNS2000 installation CD as:
OS 10:Firmware Upgrade:DNS2000 Firmware Upgrade.command
Double-click to run this programme, and follow the on-screen instructions.
If the DNS2000 hardware already has version 2 firmware installed, the
programme will return an error message informing you that there is no need to
upgrade.
ASSUMED KNOWLEDGE
This manual assumes that you are fully conversant with your Macintosh computer
and MacOS, and that you know how to operate your Pro Tools host system. It will
refer to operations that are common to these products, but will not attempt to
explain them.
Page 6 Page 7
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Read these instructions, and follow them.
■Water and moisture
The DNS2000 rackmount processor must not be exposed to rain or
moisture. Furthermore, if the DNS2000 is brought directly from a cold
environment into a warm one, moisture may condense inside it. This, in
itself, will not cause damage, but may cause electrical shorting. This
could damage the DNS2000, and even cause danger to life. Always allow
the DNS2000 to reach ambient temperatures naturally before connecting
the mains power.
■Mounting and ventilation
You should place the DNS2000 on a flat, stable surface or mount it in a
standard 19” equipment rack. Use the supplied rubber feet to avoid
scratching the surface, or the rackmounting accessories, as appropriate.
Do not subject the DNS2000 to strong sunlight, excessive dust,
mechanical vibration or periodic shocks. The unit is not susceptible to
excessive heat build-up, but should be installed away from heat sources
such as radiators and audio devices that produce large amounts of heat.
■Power sources
The DNS2000 features a universal power supply that will work safely on
any mains supply in the range 85V to 260V, 50Hz or 60Hz AC only. The
unit should always be grounded (earthed), and you should route power
cables so that they will not be walked on or pinched.
■Connections
Turn off the power to all equipment before making any connections.
■Cleaning
Clean the DNS2000 only with a dry cloth. Never use abrasive pads or
liquid cleaners such as alcohol or benzene.
■Damage requiring service
The DNS2000 contains no user-serviceable parts and should on no
account be opened or dismantled by unauthorised personnel. It should be
returned to qualified service agents when it has been exposed to liquids,
when it fails to function correctly, when it has been dropped, or when the
case is damaged.
SETTING UP THE DNS2000
Unpacking
Unpack the DNS2000 carefully. Save the carton and all packing materials since
you may need them to transport the unit in the future. In addition to this manual,
the DNS2000 and its packaging, the box should contain the following:
■mains connection lead and USB cable
■software CD-ROM
■rackmounting accessories and rubber feet
■warranty registration card.
Installation Site
To maintain reliability and prolong operating life, observe the following
environmental considerations:
■the temperature should be maintained between 5 and 30 Celsius
■relative humidity should be in the range 30% to 80% non-condensing
■strong magnetic fields should not exist nearby.
Rear Panel Connections
Audio Connections
The DNS2000 offers two audio connection standards. It passes its signal to both
outputs irrespective of the input used. The standards are:
■Digital SPDIF format
■Digital AES/EBU format
Note: The processor will lock onto the first input that provides a valid clock.
The DNS2000 is not affected by channel status data. It will echo any such data
directly to the outputs.
Page 6 Page 7
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Read these instructions, and follow them.
■Water and moisture
The DNS2000 rackmount processor must not be exposed to rain or
moisture. Furthermore, if the DNS2000 is brought directly from a cold
environment into a warm one, moisture may condense inside it. This, in
itself, will not cause damage, but may cause electrical shorting. This
could damage the DNS2000, and even cause danger to life. Always allow
the DNS2000 to reach ambient temperatures naturally before connecting
the mains power.
■Mounting and ventilation
You should place the DNS2000 on a flat, stable surface or mount it in a
standard 19” equipment rack. Use the supplied rubber feet to avoid
scratching the surface, or the rackmounting accessories, as appropriate.
Do not subject the DNS2000 to strong sunlight, excessive dust,
mechanical vibration or periodic shocks. The unit is not susceptible to
excessive heat build-up, but should be installed away from heat sources
such as radiators and audio devices that produce large amounts of heat.
■Power sources
The DNS2000 features a universal power supply that will work safely on
any mains supply in the range 85V to 260V, 50Hz or 60Hz AC only. The
unit should always be grounded (earthed), and you should route power
cables so that they will not be walked on or pinched.
■Connections
Turn off the power to all equipment before making any connections.
■Cleaning
Clean the DNS2000 only with a dry cloth. Never use abrasive pads or
liquid cleaners such as alcohol or benzene.
■Damage requiring service
The DNS2000 contains no user-serviceable parts and should on no
account be opened or dismantled by unauthorised personnel. It should be
returned to qualified service agents when it has been exposed to liquids,
when it fails to function correctly, when it has been dropped, or when the
case is damaged.
SETTING UP THE DNS2000
Unpacking
Unpack the DNS2000 carefully. Save the carton and all packing materials since
you may need them to transport the unit in the future. In addition to this manual,
the DNS2000 and its packaging, the box should contain the following:
■mains connection lead and USB cable
■software CD-ROM
■rackmounting accessories and rubber feet
■warranty registration card.
Installation Site
To maintain reliability and prolong operating life, observe the following
environmental considerations:
■the temperature should be maintained between 5 and 30 Celsius
■relative humidity should be in the range 30% to 80% non-condensing
■strong magnetic fields should not exist nearby.
Rear Panel Connections
Audio Connections
The DNS2000 offers two audio connection standards. It passes its signal to both
outputs irrespective of the input used. The standards are:
■Digital SPDIF format
■Digital AES/EBU format
Note: The processor will lock onto the first input that provides a valid clock.
The DNS2000 is not affected by channel status data. It will echo any such data
directly to the outputs.
Page 8 Page 9
Note: In both cases, there are two versions of the DNS2000 Remote Control
Software now installed on your Pro Tools system. The first operates as a
mono process. You select this from the plug-in menu in the Pro Tools
mixer. The second operates as a stereo process, and applies the same
settings to both channels in a stereo track. You select this from the multi-
channel plug-in menu in the mixer.
Using the DNS2000 within Pro Tools
■Ensure that the USB cable is connected between the Pro Tools system
and the CEDAR DNS2000 processor unit. If the connection is successful,
the USB ‘link’ LED on the processor unit front panel will light.
■Launch a Pro Tools session.
■Insert DNS2000 RCS (mono) or DNS2000 RCS (stereo) as a plug-in.
Note: If the DNS2000 Remote Control Software plug-ins do not appear in the list
of available processes it is possible that you have copied the plug-in file
to the wrong folder.
If you have loaded the software correctly and loaded the Remote Control
Software into a suitable channel, you should now see the RCS screen. If an error
screen appears please check the location(s) of the library, or driver and shim (as
appropriate).
OS9.xx error screen OS-X error screen
If you have attached the DNS2000 to the Pro Tools system using the USB cable,
and if you have correctly connected the audio signal leads to the DNS2000, you
should now be ready to process audio.
THE REMOTE CONTROL SOFTWARE
Installation
Follow these instructions to load and set up your DNS2000 Remote Control
Software:
OS9.xx users:
■Insert the CD
■Copy the file named CEDARDNS2000Driver from the CD to your
Extensions folder. You can do this by dragging and dropping the file
directly into the folder, or by dropping it onto the MacOS System Folder,
whereupon the operating system will place it in the correct folder
■Copy the file CEDARDNS2000Shim from the CD to your Extensions
folder
■Copy the file CEDARDNS2000.PPC from the CD to the Plug-Ins folder.
You will probably find this at the following location on your hard disk:
Macintosh HD:System Folder:DAE Folder:Plug-Ins
It is not necessary to restart your Macintosh after transferring these files if you are
loading the DNS2000 Remote Control Software for the first time. However, you will
need to perform a restart after loading a new version of the Remote Control
Software. This is because the earlier file CEDARDNS2000Shim will remain in
memory until replaced at start-up.
OS-X users:
■Insert the CD
■Double-click on the DNS2000BundleInstaller.pkg icon
■Follow the on-screen instructions and, if prompted to do so, install the
library on the same volume as your Pro Tools installation
■Copy the file CEDARDNS2000RCS to the Pro Tools plug-ins folder:
Macintosh HD:Applications:Digidesign:Protools:Plug-ins alias
It is not necessary to restart your Macintosh after transferring these files, but
installation should not take place while Pro Tools is running.
If you receive the following error message when attempting to run the DNS2000,
you should check that you have installed the software correctly.
Page 8 Page 9
Note: In both cases, there are two versions of the DNS2000 Remote Control
Software now installed on your Pro Tools system. The first operates as a
mono process. You select this from the plug-in menu in the Pro Tools
mixer. The second operates as a stereo process, and applies the same
settings to both channels in a stereo track. You select this from the multi-
channel plug-in menu in the mixer.
Using the DNS2000 within Pro Tools
■Ensure that the USB cable is connected between the Pro Tools system
and the CEDAR DNS2000 processor unit. If the connection is successful,
the USB ‘link’ LED on the processor unit front panel will light.
■Launch a Pro Tools session.
■Insert DNS2000 RCS (mono) or DNS2000 RCS (stereo) as a plug-in.
Note: If the DNS2000 Remote Control Software plug-ins do not appear in the list
of available processes it is possible that you have copied the plug-in file
to the wrong folder.
If you have loaded the software correctly and loaded the Remote Control
Software into a suitable channel, you should now see the RCS screen. If an error
screen appears please check the location(s) of the library, or driver and shim (as
appropriate).
OS9.xx error screen OS-X error screen
If you have attached the DNS2000 to the Pro Tools system using the USB cable,
and if you have correctly connected the audio signal leads to the DNS2000, you
should now be ready to process audio.
THE REMOTE CONTROL SOFTWARE
Installation
Follow these instructions to load and set up your DNS2000 Remote Control
Software:
OS9.xx users:
■Insert the CD
■Copy the file named CEDARDNS2000Driver from the CD to your
Extensions folder. You can do this by dragging and dropping the file
directly into the folder, or by dropping it onto the MacOS System Folder,
whereupon the operating system will place it in the correct folder
■Copy the file CEDARDNS2000Shim from the CD to your Extensions
folder
■Copy the file CEDARDNS2000.PPC from the CD to the Plug-Ins folder.
You will probably find this at the following location on your hard disk:
Macintosh HD:System Folder:DAE Folder:Plug-Ins
It is not necessary to restart your Macintosh after transferring these files if you are
loading the DNS2000 Remote Control Software for the first time. However, you will
need to perform a restart after loading a new version of the Remote Control
Software. This is because the earlier file CEDARDNS2000Shim will remain in
memory until replaced at start-up.
OS-X users:
■Insert the CD
■Double-click on the DNS2000BundleInstaller.pkg icon
■Follow the on-screen instructions and, if prompted to do so, install the
library on the same volume as your Pro Tools installation
■Copy the file CEDARDNS2000RCS to the Pro Tools plug-ins folder:
Macintosh HD:Applications:Digidesign:Protools:Plug-ins alias
It is not necessary to restart your Macintosh after transferring these files, but
installation should not take place while Pro Tools is running.
If you receive the following error message when attempting to run the DNS2000,
you should check that you have installed the software correctly.
Page 10 Page 11
SOFTWARE CONTROLS ■Level Control
The Level control tells the DNS2000 how much noise is present in the
input.
■Band Gain Controls
The DNS2000 divides a signal into a large number of well-defined bands.
Sophisticated digital filters analyse each of these bands and suppress the
noise independently in each. The innovative design of this filter bank
allows you to control the DNS2000 using relatively few controls.
The Band Gain controls determine the maximum amount of processing
that the DNS2000 will apply in each band.
■Activity Bargraphs
These offer a visual indication of the activity in each of the Bands.
■Device Selection
You can connect the DNS2000 rackmount unit to your Pro Tools system,
but until you link it to the Remote Control Software it will do nothing.
The drop-down list on the plug-in displays all the DNS2000 processors
that are currently connected to your system, and allows you to select
which processor will be controlled by this instance of the Remote Control
Software.
■Audio I/O Status
When a DNS2000 processor is connected and selected, the drop-down
list will report the audio input to which the DNS2000 is locked, the sample
rate of the incoming audio, and whether that sample rate lies more than
10% outside the accepted 44.1kHz and 48kHz standards.
Generic Pro Tools Plug-in Controls
■Bypass
This control allows you to monitor the processed or unprocessed signals.
When Bypass is selected, the ‘off’ LED will light within the appropriate
channel display on the DNS2000 processor front panel. At all other times,
the ‘on’ LED will be lit.
Note: The other controls provided within the Pro Tools header to the plug-in
window have generic operation, and are described in the Pro Tools
documentation.
Automation
The Band Gain settings, Level and Range Selectors appear in the Plug-In
Automation screen, and - together with the Pro Tools Bypass control - may be
automated in standard Pro Tools fashion.
DNS2000 Specific Controls
■Range Selectors
The Range Selectors concentrate the unit’s activity into the desired part of
the audio spectrum, as follows:
Low 20Hz - 400Hz
Mid 200Hz - 6kHz
High 4kHz - 18kHz
Low + Mid 20Hz - 6kHz
Mid + High 200Hz - 18kHz
Full Range 20Hz - 18kHz
Selecting any of these ranges concentrates all of the filters within the
DNS2000’s filter bank across that part of the audio spectrum.
Page 10 Page 11
SOFTWARE CONTROLS ■Level Control
The Level control tells the DNS2000 how much noise is present in the
input.
■Band Gain Controls
The DNS2000 divides a signal into a large number of well-defined bands.
Sophisticated digital filters analyse each of these bands and suppress the
noise independently in each. The innovative design of this filter bank
allows you to control the DNS2000 using relatively few controls.
The Band Gain controls determine the maximum amount of processing
that the DNS2000 will apply in each band.
■Activity Bargraphs
These offer a visual indication of the activity in each of the Bands.
■Device Selection
You can connect the DNS2000 rackmount unit to your Pro Tools system,
but until you link it to the Remote Control Software it will do nothing.
The drop-down list on the plug-in displays all the DNS2000 processors
that are currently connected to your system, and allows you to select
which processor will be controlled by this instance of the Remote Control
Software.
■Audio I/O Status
When a DNS2000 processor is connected and selected, the drop-down
list will report the audio input to which the DNS2000 is locked, the sample
rate of the incoming audio, and whether that sample rate lies more than
10% outside the accepted 44.1kHz and 48kHz standards.
Generic Pro Tools Plug-in Controls
■Bypass
This control allows you to monitor the processed or unprocessed signals.
When Bypass is selected, the ‘off’ LED will light within the appropriate
channel display on the DNS2000 processor front panel. At all other times,
the ‘on’ LED will be lit.
Note: The other controls provided within the Pro Tools header to the plug-in
window have generic operation, and are described in the Pro Tools
documentation.
Automation
The Band Gain settings, Level and Range Selectors appear in the Plug-In
Automation screen, and - together with the Pro Tools Bypass control - may be
automated in standard Pro Tools fashion.
DNS2000 Specific Controls
■Range Selectors
The Range Selectors concentrate the unit’s activity into the desired part of
the audio spectrum, as follows:
Low 20Hz - 400Hz
Mid 200Hz - 6kHz
High 4kHz - 18kHz
Low + Mid 20Hz - 6kHz
Mid + High 200Hz - 18kHz
Full Range 20Hz - 18kHz
Selecting any of these ranges concentrates all of the filters within the
DNS2000’s filter bank across that part of the audio spectrum.
Page 12 Page 13
Range LEDs - Channel 1 & Channel 2
The three LEDs Low, Mid and High indicate which range(s) is/are selected for
processing.
Note: These LEDs will flash a number of times when a given processor and
channel are selected from the Remote Control Software. When used in a
multi-processor environment, this gives a direct visual indication of the
relationship between the Software and each processor.
Gain LEDs - Channel 1 & Channel 2
The twelve Activity LEDs for each channel offer a visual indication of the activity
in each of the six bands controlled by the Band Gain controls.
Both LEDs off: Less than ±0.5dB activity
Cut (green) LED dim: Between 0.5dB and 3dB attenuation
Cut (green) LED bright: Greater than 3dB attenuation
Boost (red) LED dim: Between 0.5dB and 3dB gain
Boost (red) LED bright: Greater than 3dB gain
Each band controls numerous filters. Therefore, the Activity LEDs for a given
band display the overall activity in that band, and are not necessarily indicative of
the action of any single filter at that moment.
HARDWARE INDICATORS
USB LEDs
Link
When lit, this indicates a valid USB connection.
Data
This flashes when Pro Tools communicates with the DNS2000 via the USB input.
Input LEDs
AES, SPDIF
The lit LED indicates which audio input is in use. If the LEDs are flashing
alternately, there is no valid audio being presented to either of the DNS2000
processor’s inputs.
Peak
These LEDs indicate the audio input level. The upper row shows the level on
Channel 1, the lower row shows the level on Channel 2.
If the red ‘0’ LED lights continuously for about one second, this indicates input
clipping.
Note: The DNS2000 is capable of applying gain to the signal, so the absence of
input clipping does not guarantee the absence of output clipping.
Off / On LEDs - Channel 1 & Channel 2
These LEDs indicate whether the channel is selected to process.
Page 12 Page 13
Range LEDs - Channel 1 & Channel 2
The three LEDs Low, Mid and High indicate which range(s) is/are selected for
processing.
Note: These LEDs will flash a number of times when a given processor and
channel are selected from the Remote Control Software. When used in a
multi-processor environment, this gives a direct visual indication of the
relationship between the Software and each processor.
Gain LEDs - Channel 1 & Channel 2
The twelve Activity LEDs for each channel offer a visual indication of the activity
in each of the six bands controlled by the Band Gain controls.
Both LEDs off: Less than ±0.5dB activity
Cut (green) LED dim: Between 0.5dB and 3dB attenuation
Cut (green) LED bright: Greater than 3dB attenuation
Boost (red) LED dim: Between 0.5dB and 3dB gain
Boost (red) LED bright: Greater than 3dB gain
Each band controls numerous filters. Therefore, the Activity LEDs for a given
band display the overall activity in that band, and are not necessarily indicative of
the action of any single filter at that moment.
HARDWARE INDICATORS
USB LEDs
Link
When lit, this indicates a valid USB connection.
Data
This flashes when Pro Tools communicates with the DNS2000 via the USB input.
Input LEDs
AES, SPDIF
The lit LED indicates which audio input is in use. If the LEDs are flashing
alternately, there is no valid audio being presented to either of the DNS2000
processor’s inputs.
Peak
These LEDs indicate the audio input level. The upper row shows the level on
Channel 1, the lower row shows the level on Channel 2.
If the red ‘0’ LED lights continuously for about one second, this indicates input
clipping.
Note: The DNS2000 is capable of applying gain to the signal, so the absence of
input clipping does not guarantee the absence of output clipping.
Off / On LEDs - Channel 1 & Channel 2
These LEDs indicate whether the channel is selected to process.
Page 14 Page 15
TUTORIAL
Firstly, you must always remember that the DNS2000 Remote Control Software is
precisely what it claims to be: Remote Control Software. It performs no audio
processing. To process an audio stream you must route it via the DNS2000
rackmount unit. You can do this, for example, by using an insert point within the
Pro Tools mixer.
The following tutorial illustrates one way to use the DNS2000. It may not be the
way that you choose to operate it for all jobs, but it will get you started…
Selecting a DNS2000 Processor
You can launch the DNS2000 Remote Control Software on your Pro Tools system,
but until you tell it which DNS2000 processor to use, it will do nothing.
The drop-down list on the Remote Control Software displays all the DNS2000
processors connected to your system.
■If there is a DNS2000 serial number shown in green on the list, it is
available for use on your system.
■OS9.xx users: A red serial number indicates that - perhaps because of a
power failure, or because the USB connection has been severed - there is
an error communicating with the DNS2000 processor that you have
requested.
OS-X users: The following error message indicates that - perhaps
because of a power failure, or because the USB connection has been
severed - there is an error communicating with the DNS2000 processor
that you have requested.
■A grey serial number indicates that the device is allocated to a different
instance of the Remote Control Software.
Note: If you select a mono process in the Remote Control Software, you can
choose any free channel on any connected DNS2000. If you select a
stereo process, this will require a single DNS2000 with both channels free.
OS9.xx users only:
The Range LEDs on the DNS2000 rackmount unit will flash a number of times
when a given processor and channel are selected from the Remote Control
Software. When used in a multi-processor environment, this gives a direct visual
indication of the relationship between the Software and each processor.
Range Selector
First, you should identify the frequency range or ranges in which the unwanted
noise lies, and select any of six possible processing ranges by clicking on the
appropriate buttons.
Note: With practise, you will be able to identify the range by ear. Until then, you
may prefer to use the methods described in the following case studies.
Level Control
Your next job will be to identify the noise level of the audio.
With the appropriate range selected, pull all six Band Gain controls and the Level
control down fully. Now increase the Level slowly. At first, you will hear very little
happen but, at some point determined by the noise content of the recording, you
will hear the noise disappear. You should attempt to find the point at which this
occurs.
Note: When the Band Gain controls are fully down, maximum processing occurs
as you increase the Level control, thus making identification of the noise
easier.
Band Gain Controls
Once you have chosen the range and determined the Level, you control the
action of the DNS2000’s filter bank using the Band Gain controls.
The six faders represent six frequency bands distributed from lower frequencies
(left) to higher frequencies (right) across the selected range.
You will use the Band Gain controls to control the amount of noise attenuation
performed in each band, adjusting them to suppress as much noise as possible
without introducing unwanted artefacts into the desired signal.
Noise suppression occurs in a given band when the fader is below 0dB.
However, there are occasions when you might wish to boost the signal in a given
band, and you can do this by moving the appropriate fader above 0dB.
Page 14 Page 15
TUTORIAL
Firstly, you must always remember that the DNS2000 Remote Control Software is
precisely what it claims to be: Remote Control Software. It performs no audio
processing. To process an audio stream you must route it via the DNS2000
rackmount unit. You can do this, for example, by using an insert point within the
Pro Tools mixer.
The following tutorial illustrates one way to use the DNS2000. It may not be the
way that you choose to operate it for all jobs, but it will get you started…
Selecting a DNS2000 Processor
You can launch the DNS2000 Remote Control Software on your Pro Tools system,
but until you tell it which DNS2000 processor to use, it will do nothing.
The drop-down list on the Remote Control Software displays all the DNS2000
processors connected to your system.
■If there is a DNS2000 serial number shown in green on the list, it is
available for use on your system.
■OS9.xx users: A red serial number indicates that - perhaps because of a
power failure, or because the USB connection has been severed - there is
an error communicating with the DNS2000 processor that you have
requested.
OS-X users: The following error message indicates that - perhaps
because of a power failure, or because the USB connection has been
severed - there is an error communicating with the DNS2000 processor
that you have requested.
■A grey serial number indicates that the device is allocated to a different
instance of the Remote Control Software.
Note: If you select a mono process in the Remote Control Software, you can
choose any free channel on any connected DNS2000. If you select a
stereo process, this will require a single DNS2000 with both channels free.
OS9.xx users only:
The Range LEDs on the DNS2000 rackmount unit will flash a number of times
when a given processor and channel are selected from the Remote Control
Software. When used in a multi-processor environment, this gives a direct visual
indication of the relationship between the Software and each processor.
Range Selector
First, you should identify the frequency range or ranges in which the unwanted
noise lies, and select any of six possible processing ranges by clicking on the
appropriate buttons.
Note: With practise, you will be able to identify the range by ear. Until then, you
may prefer to use the methods described in the following case studies.
Level Control
Your next job will be to identify the noise level of the audio.
With the appropriate range selected, pull all six Band Gain controls and the Level
control down fully. Now increase the Level slowly. At first, you will hear very little
happen but, at some point determined by the noise content of the recording, you
will hear the noise disappear. You should attempt to find the point at which this
occurs.
Note: When the Band Gain controls are fully down, maximum processing occurs
as you increase the Level control, thus making identification of the noise
easier.
Band Gain Controls
Once you have chosen the range and determined the Level, you control the
action of the DNS2000’s filter bank using the Band Gain controls.
The six faders represent six frequency bands distributed from lower frequencies
(left) to higher frequencies (right) across the selected range.
You will use the Band Gain controls to control the amount of noise attenuation
performed in each band, adjusting them to suppress as much noise as possible
without introducing unwanted artefacts into the desired signal.
Noise suppression occurs in a given band when the fader is below 0dB.
However, there are occasions when you might wish to boost the signal in a given
band, and you can do this by moving the appropriate fader above 0dB.
Page 16 Page 17
In all likelihood, you will find that the leftmost Band Gain controls are pulled down
significantly, whereas the central and rightmost are close to 0dB. This tells you
that the problem does not lie in the upper frequencies, so you should use the
Range Selectors to select Low+Mid. Then repeat the steps marked “•”.
If you now find that you are using all six faders in similar fashion, it is likely that
the noise is distributed across the entire Low+Mid range. However, if the
suppression is still heavily biased towards the left hand faders, you should now
select the Low range alone and repeat the procedure.
If you select Low alone and cannot suppress the noise, it is probable that there is
considerable noise energy in the Mid band, so you should return to using
Low+Mid ranges.
For many problems such as traffic noise, the noise will lie primarily in the range
50Hz - 1.5kHz. In this case, Low+Mid will be the correct choice.
Second, optimise the Level control.
Listening carefully to the audio, refine the Level setting so that the noise is
correctly identified without introducing audible artefacts. If this proves difficult,
you can return the Band Gain controls to -24dB for this stage.
The DNS2000 takes a short period to settle after moving the Level control
(especially in the lower ranges) so you should not adjust it rapidly.
Third, refine the Band Gain controls for optimum suppression.
Set all six Band Gain controls to 0dB. Now increase and decrease the Gain in
each band separately while
listening to the effect that
each has on the noise. This
will identify the bands that
contain the majority of the
noise. (Do not be alarmed
if all six bands contain
significant noise. This is not
unusual.)
The final configuration may
look like this:
CASE STUDIES
The following case studies describe just three of the ways in which you can use
the DNS2000. You can apply the DNS2000 equally to recorded signals and to
‘live’ signals at the point of recording or transmission.
Suppressing traffic noise and other ambient sound
The DNS2000 can suppress background noises such as road traffic, aircraft, air
conditioning, wind, rain, and many other common soundstage, location, and
outside broadcast (remote) problems that contaminate audio. If your signal
exhibits any of these problems, you can suppress them as follows.
First, identify the frequency range(s) in which the noise lies.
You should be able to do this by listening to the problem. However, if this proves
difficult, you can use the following method.
It is not important that you find the perfect settings at the first attempt. In
particular, you will be able to refine your Level and Band Gain settings once you
have found the correct range.
Begin as follows:
Ensure that the DNS2000 is not in Bypass
Select Full Range
• Set all six Band Gain controls to -24dB
• Raise the Level control until the noise disappears
At this point you have determined an approximate setting for the Level. This is
necessary for determining the range but it is likely that you will refine this later in
the procedure.
When the Level is close to the ideal setting, you should see the Activity LED Bar
Graphs in the Remote Control Software, and the LEDs on the DNS2000 processor
front panel, flicker in response to the signal content.
Now continue as follows:
• Raise the Band Gain controls to 0dB (no processing occurs)
• Adjust the Band Gain controls to suppress the noise
You should always attempt to suppress the noise with the minimum of damage to
the desired signal.
Page 16 Page 17
In all likelihood, you will find that the leftmost Band Gain controls are pulled down
significantly, whereas the central and rightmost are close to 0dB. This tells you
that the problem does not lie in the upper frequencies, so you should use the
Range Selectors to select Low+Mid. Then repeat the steps marked “•”.
If you now find that you are using all six faders in similar fashion, it is likely that
the noise is distributed across the entire Low+Mid range. However, if the
suppression is still heavily biased towards the left hand faders, you should now
select the Low range alone and repeat the procedure.
If you select Low alone and cannot suppress the noise, it is probable that there is
considerable noise energy in the Mid band, so you should return to using
Low+Mid ranges.
For many problems such as traffic noise, the noise will lie primarily in the range
50Hz - 1.5kHz. In this case, Low+Mid will be the correct choice.
Second, optimise the Level control.
Listening carefully to the audio, refine the Level setting so that the noise is
correctly identified without introducing audible artefacts. If this proves difficult,
you can return the Band Gain controls to -24dB for this stage.
The DNS2000 takes a short period to settle after moving the Level control
(especially in the lower ranges) so you should not adjust it rapidly.
Third, refine the Band Gain controls for optimum suppression.
Set all six Band Gain controls to 0dB. Now increase and decrease the Gain in
each band separately while
listening to the effect that
each has on the noise. This
will identify the bands that
contain the majority of the
noise. (Do not be alarmed
if all six bands contain
significant noise. This is not
unusual.)
The final configuration may
look like this:
CASE STUDIES
The following case studies describe just three of the ways in which you can use
the DNS2000. You can apply the DNS2000 equally to recorded signals and to
‘live’ signals at the point of recording or transmission.
Suppressing traffic noise and other ambient sound
The DNS2000 can suppress background noises such as road traffic, aircraft, air
conditioning, wind, rain, and many other common soundstage, location, and
outside broadcast (remote) problems that contaminate audio. If your signal
exhibits any of these problems, you can suppress them as follows.
First, identify the frequency range(s) in which the noise lies.
You should be able to do this by listening to the problem. However, if this proves
difficult, you can use the following method.
It is not important that you find the perfect settings at the first attempt. In
particular, you will be able to refine your Level and Band Gain settings once you
have found the correct range.
Begin as follows:
Ensure that the DNS2000 is not in Bypass
Select Full Range
• Set all six Band Gain controls to -24dB
• Raise the Level control until the noise disappears
At this point you have determined an approximate setting for the Level. This is
necessary for determining the range but it is likely that you will refine this later in
the procedure.
When the Level is close to the ideal setting, you should see the Activity LED Bar
Graphs in the Remote Control Software, and the LEDs on the DNS2000 processor
front panel, flicker in response to the signal content.
Now continue as follows:
• Raise the Band Gain controls to 0dB (no processing occurs)
• Adjust the Band Gain controls to suppress the noise
You should always attempt to suppress the noise with the minimum of damage to
the desired signal.
Page 18 Page 19
Suppressing excessive reverberation
In many situations, the DNS2000 can suppress excessive reverberation. This can
be useful in TV production when you need to match the audio from a large
recording studio or soundstage to visual images set in a small room or other
enclosed space. Suppressing reverberation can also be beneficial in increasing
the intelligibility of poor dialogue recordings.
The method used to suppress reverberation is quite different from that applied in
cases 1 and 2, and is as follows:
First, set the range in which the reverberation lies.
In general, reverberant spaces include soft materials that absorb high
frequencies more rapidly than middle and lower frequencies. Even bare rooms
with hard walls include these materials; they are the people who are speaking.
Consequently, you will find that Low+Mid is almost always the most appropriate
combination of ranges for suppressing reverberation.
Second, set the Band Gain controls.
You should set all six Band Gain controls to -24dB. This will ensure that (if the
Level is set correctly) the DNS2000 applies maximum suppression to the tails of
the sound.
Third, optimise the Level control.
Starting at its minimum position (-80dB) increase the Level control slowly. At
some point before full noise
suppression becomes
apparent, you will hear the
tails of louder sounds
become truncated.
You can adjust the amount
of truncation of the reverb
using the Level control
rather than the Band Gain
controls.
The final configuration may
look like this:
Suppressing tape hiss
The DNS2000 can suppress the tape hiss that mars many older recordings. It will
also improve the signal/noise ratio of dialogue tapes that have been poorly
copied as well as those that are many generations old.
First, identify the frequency range(s) in which the noise lies.
You should follow the procedure laid down in case 1 to determine the range(s) in
which the problem lies. For most instances of tape hiss, you will find that the
Mid+High ranges are most appropriate. In a few cases you may find that the
High range alone is most suitable.
It is not as common to require suppression in the Low range because hiss is
usually less prominent at lower frequencies, and it may also be masked by the
genuine audio in the range.
Second, optimise the Level control.
To determine the correct Level, you should again follow the procedure described
in case 1.
Third, refine the Band Gain controls for optimum suppression.
As in case 1, you should start with all six Band Gain controls at 0dB. You should
then increase and decrease each control individually to find the bands that
contribute most hiss to the signal. Because tape hiss often exhibits a white profile
at Mid and High frequencies, you may find that satisfactory results are achieved
with the Band Gain controls set in a horizontal line.
However, hiss is generally
less annoying at very high
audio frequencies.
Consequently, you may be
able to reduce the amount
of processing in the
uppermost bands. This will
help to ensure that any low
amplitude signal
components lying at high
frequencies (which provide
much of the “air”,
“ambience” or “life” in a
signal) are passed with little
or no attenuation.
The final configuration may
look like this:
Page 18 Page 19
Suppressing excessive reverberation
In many situations, the DNS2000 can suppress excessive reverberation. This can
be useful in TV production when you need to match the audio from a large
recording studio or soundstage to visual images set in a small room or other
enclosed space. Suppressing reverberation can also be beneficial in increasing
the intelligibility of poor dialogue recordings.
The method used to suppress reverberation is quite different from that applied in
cases 1 and 2, and is as follows:
First, set the range in which the reverberation lies.
In general, reverberant spaces include soft materials that absorb high
frequencies more rapidly than middle and lower frequencies. Even bare rooms
with hard walls include these materials; they are the people who are speaking.
Consequently, you will find that Low+Mid is almost always the most appropriate
combination of ranges for suppressing reverberation.
Second, set the Band Gain controls.
You should set all six Band Gain controls to -24dB. This will ensure that (if the
Level is set correctly) the DNS2000 applies maximum suppression to the tails of
the sound.
Third, optimise the Level control.
Starting at its minimum position (-80dB) increase the Level control slowly. At
some point before full noise
suppression becomes
apparent, you will hear the
tails of louder sounds
become truncated.
You can adjust the amount
of truncation of the reverb
using the Level control
rather than the Band Gain
controls.
The final configuration may
look like this:
Suppressing tape hiss
The DNS2000 can suppress the tape hiss that mars many older recordings. It will
also improve the signal/noise ratio of dialogue tapes that have been poorly
copied as well as those that are many generations old.
First, identify the frequency range(s) in which the noise lies.
You should follow the procedure laid down in case 1 to determine the range(s) in
which the problem lies. For most instances of tape hiss, you will find that the
Mid+High ranges are most appropriate. In a few cases you may find that the
High range alone is most suitable.
It is not as common to require suppression in the Low range because hiss is
usually less prominent at lower frequencies, and it may also be masked by the
genuine audio in the range.
Second, optimise the Level control.
To determine the correct Level, you should again follow the procedure described
in case 1.
Third, refine the Band Gain controls for optimum suppression.
As in case 1, you should start with all six Band Gain controls at 0dB. You should
then increase and decrease each control individually to find the bands that
contribute most hiss to the signal. Because tape hiss often exhibits a white profile
at Mid and High frequencies, you may find that satisfactory results are achieved
with the Band Gain controls set in a horizontal line.
However, hiss is generally
less annoying at very high
audio frequencies.
Consequently, you may be
able to reduce the amount
of processing in the
uppermost bands. This will
help to ensure that any low
amplitude signal
components lying at high
frequencies (which provide
much of the “air”,
“ambience” or “life” in a
signal) are passed with little
or no attenuation.
The final configuration may
look like this:
Page 20 Page 21
SPECIFICATIONS
General
Power supply: 85–260VAC; 50–60Hz
Dimensions: 1U rackmount, 20cm depth
Audio
I/O type: Digital PCM Sample rates: 44.1, 48 kHz
I/O resolution: 24 bits Data formats: SPDIF or AES/EBU
Processor power: 198MFLOPS Process resolution: 40 bits
Latency: <10 samples
EMC REGULATIONS
In order to comply with EMC regulations, you must connect the DNS2000 using
metal-shelled connectors and good quality shielded cable suitable for digital
audio.
Declaration of conformity
Date of issue 1 April 2002
Equipment CEDAR DNS2000
Manufacturer CEDAR Audio Ltd
Address 20 Home End, Fulbourn, Cambridge CB1 5BS, UK
This is to certify that the aforementioned equipment, when used in accordance
with the instructions in this manual, fully conforms to the protection requirements
of the following EC Council Directives: on the approximation of the laws of the
member states relating to:
■89/336/EEC Electromagnetic Compatibility
Applicable standards: EN 55103-1:1996 EN 55103-2:1996
■73/23/EEC Low Voltage Equipment
Applicable standard: EN 60065:1998
E&OE. The Company reserves the right to change specifications without notice.
TROUBLESHOOTING NON-CEDAR
COMPONENTS
If you encounter problems with your Macintosh, MacOS, or Pro Tools, please refer
to the relevant Apple or Digidesign manuals, or contact the dealer that supplied
these systems to you.
Unless appointed independently as authorised dealers for the following products,
CEDAR Audio’s dealers will not attempt to provide technical support for:
• Macintosh computers
• Mac OS9.xx or OS-X
• Digidesign hardware
• Digidesign software.
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