Linear Acoustic UPMAX User manual

UPMAX
5.1-Channel Reference Upmixer
User Guide
Release Date: June 2013
Software Version: 0.98 and later
Linear Acoustic Inc.
Phone: [phone]
FAX: [phone]
Web: www.LinearAcoustic.com

Warranty Information
DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTIES: Products manufactured by Linear Acoustic are warranted
against defects in material and workmanship for a period of two (2) years from the date of purchase.
THERE ARE NO OTHER IMPLIED OR EXPRESS WARRANTIES AND NO WAR-
RANTY FOR MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.
During the warranty period Linear Acoustic Inc. will repair, or at our discretion replace, components
which prove to be defective, provided the unit is returned, shipped pre-paid to us directly with a return
authorization (RA) number clearly marked on the packaging. Please note, this RA number must be
present or package will be refused and returned to sender.
All requests for repairs MUST include the unit serial number to ensure quick and accurate service.
DEFECTS CAUSED BY UNAUTHORIZED MODIFICATIONS, MISUSE OR ACCI-
DENTS, UNAUTHORIZED CUSTOMER REPAIRS, OR ANY FURTHER DAMAGE
CAUSED BY INADEQUATE PACKAGING FOR SERVICE RETURN ARE NOT COV-
ERED BY THIS WARRANTY.
PLEASE SAVE THE SHIPPING CARTON AND ALL PACKING MATERIALS. FAILURE
TO RETURN UNIT IN ORIGINAL SHIPPING CARTON AND PACKING MATERIALS
WILL RESULT IN A CHARGE FOR NEW SHIPPING MATERIALS.
LIMITATION OF PERIOD OF ACTION ON CONTRACT: No action, regardless of form,
arising out of the transactions under this agreement may be brought by buyer, its successors, agents
and/or assigns, more than three years from date of purchase.
LIMITATION OF LIABILITY: It is understood and agreed that Linear Acoustic’s liability whether
in contract, in tort, under any warranty, in negligence or otherwise shall not exceed the cost of repair
or replacement of the defective components and under no circumstances shall Linear Acoustic be liable
for incidental, special, direct, indirect or consequential damages, or loss of use, revenue or profit even
if Linear Acoustic or its agents have been advised, orally or in writing, of the possibility of such damages.
This product contains Audyne technology and is manufactured under license.
Linear Acoustic, the “LA” symbol, UPMAX, AEROMAX, AERO.100, AERO.air, AutoNorm, Meta-
MAX, AutoMAX-II, AutoVoiceover, AutoVOX, AutoSAP, and CrowdControl, are trademarks or
registered trademarks of Linear Acoustic Inc., all other trademarks remain the property of their respec-
tive owners.

Regulatory Notices and Fusing Information
FCC
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device,
pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection
against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This
equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in
accordance with this instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.
Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference in which case
the user will be required to correct the interference at his or her own expense.
Canada
This Class A digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.
UL
WARNING: Troubleshooting must be performed by a trained technician. Do not
attempt to service this equipment unless you are qualified to do so.
Check that the correct fuses have been installed. To reduce the risk of fire, replace
only with fuses of the same type and rating.
Exposed portions of the power supply assembly are electrically “hot”. In order to reduce the risk
of electrical shock, the power cord MUST be disconnected when the power supply assembly is
removed.
The ground terminal of the power plug is connected
directly to the chassis of the unit. For continued protection
against electric shock, a correctly wired and grounded
(earthed) three-pin power outlet must be used. Do not use
a ground-lifting adapter and never cut the ground pin on
the three-prong plug.
UK
As the colours of the cores in the mains lead may not correspond with the coloured markings
identifying the terminals in your plug, proceed as follows:
xThe core that is coloured green and yellow must be connected to the terminal in the
plug identified by the letter E or by the earth symbol or coloured green or green
and yellow.
xThe core that is coloured blue must be connected to the terminal that is marked with t
letter N or coloured black.
xThe core that is coloured brown must be connected to the terminal that is marked with
the letter L or coloured red.
xThis apparatus must be earthed.

U
s equipment complies with the EMC requirements of EN55103-1 and EN55103-2 when operated in an E2 environment
accordance with this manual.
IMPORTANT SAFETY NOTICE
unit complies with the safety standard EN60065. The unit shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing and no objects filled with liquids, such as
ee cups, shall be placed on the equipment. To ensure safe operation and to guard against potential shock hazard or risk of fire, the following must be
erved:
Ensure that your mains supply is in the correct range for the input power requirement of the unit.
Ensure fuses fitted are the correct rating and type as marked on the unit.
The unit must be earthed by connecting to a correctly wired and earthed power outlet.
The power cord supplied with this unit must be wired as follows:
Live—Brown Neutral—Blue Earth—Green/Yellow
IMPORTANT – NOTE DE SECURITE
materiel est conforme à la norme EN60065. Ne pas exposer cet appareil aux éclaboussures ou aux gouttes de liquide. Ne pas poser d'objets remplis de
ide, tels que des tasses de café, sur l'appareil. Pour vous assurer d'un fonctionnement sans danger et de prévenir
choc électrique ou tout risque d'incendie, veillez à observer les recommandations suivantes.
Le selecteur de tension doit être placé sur la valeur correspondante à votre alimentation réseau.
Les fusibles doivent correspondre à la valeur indiquée sur le materiel.
Le materiel doit être correctement relié à la terre.
Le cordon secteur livré avec le materiel doit être cablé de la manière suivante:
Phase—Brun Neutre—Bleu Terre—Vert/Jaune
WICHTIGER SICHERHEITSHINWEIS
ses Gerät entspricht der Sicherheitsnorm EN60065. Das Gerät darf nicht mit Flüssigkeiten (Spritzwasser usw.) in Berührung kommen; stellen Sie
e Gefäße, z.B. Kaffeetassen, auf das Gerät. Für das sichere Funktionieren des Gerätes und zur Unfallverhütung (elektrischer Schlag, Feuer) sind die
enden Regeln unbedingt einzuhalten:
Der Spannungswähler muß auf Ihre Netzspannung eingestellt sein.
Die Sicherungen müssen in Typ und Stromwert mit den Angaben auf dem Gerät übereinstimmen.
Die Erdung des Gerätes muß über eine geerdete Steckdose gewährleistet sein.
Das mitgelieferte Netzkabel muß wie folgt verdrahtet werden:
Phase—braun Nulleiter—blau Erde—grün/gelb
NORME DI SICUREZZA – IMPORTANTE
sta apparecchiatura è stata costruita in accordo alle norme di sicurezza EN60065. Il prodotto non deve essere sottoposto a schizzi, spruzzi e
ciolamenti, e nessun tipo di oggetto riempito con liquidi, come ad esempio tazze di caffè, deve essere appoggiato sul dispositivo. Per una perfetta
rezza ed al fine di evitare eventuali rischi di scossa êlettrica o d'incendio vanno osservate le seguenti misure di sicurezza:
Assicurarsi che il selettore di cambio tensione sia posizionato sul valore corretto.
Assicurarsi che la portata ed il tipo di fusibili siano quelli prescritti dalla casa costruttrice.
L'apparecchiatura deve avere un collegamento di messa a terra ben eseguito; anche la connessione rete deve
avere un collegamento a terra.
Il cavo di alimentazione a corredo dell'apparecchiatura deve essere collegato come segue:
Filo tensione—Marrone Neutro—Blu Massa—Verde/Giallo
AVISO IMPORTANTE DE SEGURIDAD
unidad cumple con la norma de seguridad EN60065. La unidad no debe ser expuesta a goteos o salpicaduras y no deben colocarse sobre el equipo
pientes con liquidos, como tazas de cafe. Para asegurarse un funcionamiento seguro y prevenir cualquier posible peligro de descarga o riesgo de
ndio, se han de observar las siguientes precauciones:
Asegúrese que el selector de tensión esté ajustado a la tensión correcta para su alimentación.
Asegúrese que los fusibles colocados son del tipo y valor correctos, tal como se marca en la unidad.
La unidad debe ser puesta a tierra, conectándola a un conector de red correctamente cableado y puesto a tierra.
El cable de red suministrado con esta unidad, debe ser cableado como sigue:
Vivo—Marrón Neutro—Azul Tierra—Verde/Amarillo
VIKTIGA SÄKERHETSÅTGÄRDER!
na enhet uppfyller säkerhetsstandard EN60065. Enheten får ej utsättas för yttre åverkan samt föremål innehållande vätska, såsom kaffemuggar, får ej
eras på utrustningen." För att garantera säkerheten och gardera mot eventuell elchock eller brandrisk, måste följande observeras:
Kontrollera att spänningsväljaren är inställd på korrekt nätspänning.
Konrollera att säkringarna är av rätt typ och för rätt strömstyrka så som anvisningarna på enheten föreskriver.
Enheten måste vara jordad genom anslutning till ett korrekt kopplat och jordat el-uttag.
El-sladden som medföljer denna enhet måste kopplas enligt foljande:
Fas—Brun Neutral—Blå Jord—Grön/Gul
BELANGRIJK VEILIGHEIDS-VOORSCHRIFT:
e unit voldoet aan de EN60065 veiligheids-standaards. Dit apparaat mag niet worden blootgesteld aan vocht. Vanwege het risico dat er druppels in
apparaat vallen, dient u er geen vloeistoffen in bekers op te plaatsen. Voor een veilig gebruik en om het gevaar van electrische schokken en het risico
brand te vermijden, dienen de volgende regels in acht te worden genomen:
Controleer of de spanningscaroussel op het juiste Voltage staat.
Gebruik alleen zekeringen van de aangegeven typen en waarden.
Aansluiting van de unit alleen aan een geaarde wandcontactdoos.
De netkabel die met de unit wordt geleverd, moet als volgt worden aangesloten:
Fase—Bruin Nul—Blauw Aarde—Groen/Geel
F
E
NL
S
I
D
GB

Fusing Information
WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire, replace fuses only with the same type
and rating.
Both units use a universal switching power supply that handles the full range of
nominal mains voltages between 90 and 264 VAC and any frequency between 50 Hz
and 60 Hz.
Check Main Fuse
The Main fuse rating is:
T 1A L (1 Amp, 250 V, 20 mm, time-lag, low breaking capacity) for all operating
voltages.
WARNING: The power to the unit must be off when the following steps are
p
erformed. Ensure that the main power cable to the unit is not connected to a
p
ower source.
1. Open the fuse compartment door in the AC power input housing with a small flat-
blade screwdriver (Figure 1). Carefully pull out the fuse carrier.
2. Check that the replacement fuse has the correct rating. The fuse carrier must be
inserted into the compartment carefully. Do not force the carrier into the
compartment or both could be damaged.
3. Snap the fuse compartment door closed.
Figure 1 Checking the Main Fuse
Internal Fuse
The switching power supply contains a separate fuse. Most fault conditions should be
protected by the main fuse.
If you find it necessary to replace the internal fuse, be certain to replace it with a fuse
of the same type and rating as printed on the switching power supply board.

Linear Acoustic UPMAX User Guide
1
Table of Contents
List of Figures..........................................................................................................................................3
Chapter 1: Introduction.................................................................................................................5
1.1 Principles of Operation..........................................................................................5
1.2 Warranty and Feedback .........................................................................................7
Chapter 2: Connections and Quick Setup.....................................................................9
2.1 Unpacking and Inspection ....................................................................................9
2.2 Installation ...............................................................................................................9
2.3 Rear Panel ..............................................................................................................10
2.3.1 Connection Ports .................................................................................10
2.4 Quick Setup Notes ...............................................................................................11
Chapter 3: Applications..............................................................................................................13
3.1 Typical Scenarios ..................................................................................................13
3.1.1 Two-Channel Commercials and Interstitial Programming............14
3.2 Factory Presets ......................................................................................................16
Chapter 4: Detailed Operation...............................................................................................17
4.1 Menu Navigation ..................................................................................................17
4.1.1 Output and Upmix Status...................................................................17
4.1.2 Statistics .................................................................................................17
4.1.3 UPMAX Setup......................................................................................17
4.1.4 I/O Menu..............................................................................................18
4.1.5 Communication ....................................................................................19
4.1.6 System ....................................................................................................19

Linear Acoustic UPMAX User Guide
2
Chapter 5: Troubleshooting....................................................................................................23
5.1 Problems and Possible Causes............................................................................23
5.1.1 Unit won’t power on............................................................................23
5.1.2 Output Audio Clicks and Pops..........................................................23
5.1.3 Unit is Not Upmixing..........................................................................24
5.1.4 Cannot Manually Control Upmixing.................................................24
Chapter 6: Specifications..........................................................................................................25

Linear Acoustic UPMAX User Guide
3
List of Figures
1-1 Audio Block Diagram .........................................................................................................................6
2-1 Rear Panel ...........................................................................................................................................10
3-1 UPMAX in a commercial upmixing application ...........................................................................14
3-2 UPMAX with Dolby DP572 Dolby E Decoder ...........................................................................15
6-1 Electrical .............................................................................................................................................25

Linear Acoustic UPMAX User Guide
4

Linear Acoustic UPMAX User Guide
5
Chapter 1: Introduction
The Linear Acoustic UPMAX produces a 5.1 channel audio signal that is perfect for even-
tual transmission via Dolby Digital (also known as AC-3) to all consumers. The unit ac-
cepts a 2-channel input and “upmixes” it to fill as many of the 5.1 output channels as the
user selects. Any input signal from mono to LtRt (Left Total/Right Total) surround en-
coded audio can be applied to the Main Input and an output will be produced that main-
tains consistency with other 5.1 channel programming.
The UPMAX provides the following features:
• Advanced upmixing algorithm for stable, convincing surround experience.
• The only Upmixer fully downmix compatible with Dolby Digital (AC-3).
• Upmixed surround field is infinitely adjustable.
• External inputs allow crossfaded bypassing of upmixing to enable discrete 5.1 channel
audio to automatically pass untouched.
• Built-in independent LoRo/LtRt encoder
• Relay bypassed digital inputs for “mission critical” broadcast applications.
• Dual redundant auto-ranging power supplies
1.1 Principles of Operation
The UPMAX contains two paths for audio signals. The first path contains an upmixer, a
bass extension filter to create the LFE (Low Frequency Effects) or subwoofer channel, and
a simple but powerful set of mix controls to vary each element of the surroundfield. The
second path provides discrete inputs for the Center, LFE, Ls (Left Surround), Rs (Right
Surround), Lf (Left Front) and Rf (Right Front) channels. The upmixed and discrete out-
puts can be crossfaded between to allow smooth transitions between upmixed and discrete
audio.
Please refer to Figure 1-1. It should be noted that this diagram is a general representation
of signal flow. Please consult the appropriate section of this manual for an accurate de-
scription of actual functionality.

Linear Acoustic UPMAX User Guide Introduction
6
Figure 1-1 Audio Block Diagram
Main In
Lt/Lo
Left
Center
Right
UPMAX
Surround
+
+
Byp In
Center
Center
Width
80 Hz
+
Byp In
LFE
+
+
Byp In
Ls
Byp In
Rs
Surround
Depth
Main
Out Rs
Main
Out Ls
Main
Out LFE
Main
Out C
Main
Out Rf
Main
Out Lf
Main In
Rt/Ro
Lf
Rf
Main Out
Lo/Lt
1/2 In
3/4 In
5/6 In
7/8 In 7/8 Out
5/6 Out
3/4 Out
1/2 Out
+
+
+
+
Upmix
On/Off
0% 100%
C,LFE,Ls,Rs
LoRo/LtRt
Encoder
Lf/Lt
Rf/Rt
Enc. Lf/Rf src=
1/2 or 7/8
Main Out
Ro/Rt
DOWNMIX ENCODER
0%
100%
Upmix On=
Mute
CPU
(FPUI, I/O, PSU Mon,
System Control)
PSU
100-240
50/60Hz PS
Mon
GPIO
Metadata
ETHERNET
Ctrl

Linear Acoustic UPMAX User Guide Introduction
7
1.2 Warranty and Feedback
Please take a moment to fill out the postage-paid warranty card included with the unit and
drop it in the mail. This will enable us to contact you if there are any software or documen-
tation issues. Also, we are very interested in your feedback. This unit was designed based
on input gathered from many broadcast engineers and it will evolve further thanks to on-
going suggestions and comments from users.
We look forward to hearing from you!

Linear Acoustic UPMAX User Guide Introduction
8

Linear Acoustic UPMAX User Guide
9
Chapter 2: Connections and Quick Setup
This chapter covers all required connections for the UPMAX.
2.1 Unpacking and Inspection
Before unpacking the unit, inspect the outer carton for shipping damage. If the carton
shows damage, inspect the unit in those areas. Please save the carefully designed shipping
carton and packing materials. In the unlikely event that the unit needs to be returned to the
factory, alternate cartons or packing materials may not be adequate and can cause damage
not covered by warranty.
The following essential items are provided with the unit:
• Bag containing:
• Quick-start sheet to get you up and running
• Two IEC power cords (style matches country of order);
• this manual, and a handy black pen.
• Warranty information: Please fill out and return the warranty card to Linear Acoustic
to ensure your software and documentation are kept up to date.
2.2 Installation
UPMAX installation requires:
• One standard rack space unit with ADEQUATE VENTILATION (the unit relies on
convection cooling from side-panel vents);
• standard 75-Ohm BNC cables for digital signal connections;
To connect to digital equipment with 110-Ohm XLR connectors, use impedance-
matching transformers (available from Canare, Neutrik and other manufacturers).
• Proper reference. The unit will default to internal 48kHz with no signals applied, but
either AES 1/2 or 3/4 can be used as the reference. For proper plant timing, it is
strongly recommend that one of these two AES inputs be supplied with a 48kHz AES
signal and used for reference.

Linear Acoustic UPMAX User Guide Connections and Quick Setup
10
2.3 Rear Panel
The rear panel of the UPMAX contains its electrical I/O.
2.3.1 Connection Ports
All UPMAX connections are on the rear panel and are described in detail below. See Chap-
ter 5: Specifications for specific pinouts.
Figure 2-1 Rear Panel
•Metadata I/O: RS-485 connection accepts the metadata output of any Dolby equip-
ment (DP572, DP570, etc...) or any Dolby-compatible metadata source. Used to con-
trol upmixing and other functions.
•SDI Input/SDI Output: Allows access to all 16 audio channels for HD and SD-SDI
embedding and de-embedding.
•GPI/O: Connect dry contact closures here to control upmixing on/off. Note that
GPI functions require held closures for the duration of the desired function. Status of
upmixing will be reflected on the corresponding GPO pin.
•ETHERNET: Used for firmware upgrades.
•Main Audio Input (1/2): Connect the two channel source for upmixing to this input.
In many cases the first pair of a 5.1 channel signal (LfRf) is also the stereo signal that
needs to be upmixed (L/R).
•External Mix Inputs (3/4 and 5/6): Audio from C/LFE and Ls/Rs applied to these
connectors will be passed through when upmixing is disabled, allowing a 5.1 channel
program to pass through 1/2, 3/4 and 5/6. In parallel, these inputs also feed the LoRo
encoder, with Left Front/Right Front from 7/8, allowing simultaneous encoding and
upmixing of a single or different programs.
NOTE: Appropriate reference should be applied to Input 1/2 for proper operation.
•Main Audio Outputs: Main 48kHz processed digital audio outputs. 1/2 = Left
Front/Right Front, 3/4 = Center/LFE, 5/6 = Left Surround/Right Surround.

Linear Acoustic UPMAX User Guide Connections and Quick Setup
11
• Downmix Output: An LoRo or LtRt encoded version of the main inputs (Ch. 1-6) is
available from this connector at all times. Optionally, the LfRf source can come from
7/8 to allow separate upmixing and downmixing (see I/O Settings)
2.4 Quick Setup Notes
The Linear Acoustic UPMAX is configured at the factory and is ready to go on the air after
making the proper input and output connections and determining if upmixing is desired.
• Apply a two channel (stereo or LtRt) signal to Main Input 1/2
• The Reference and Main Input front panel indicators should be green.
• The main menu will default to showing output meters, and you should see activity on
some or all of the first six meters.
• Upmixed audio will be output from the Main Out 1-6 AES outputs in the following
format: 1/2 = Left Front/Right Front, 3/4 = Center/LFE, 5/6 = Left Surround/
Right Surround
• Note that 7/8 is the downmix output and will show activity and produce output only
when signals are applied to the LoRo/LtRt encoder inputs.
The best way to learn the processor is to explore the different settings with audio applied
and monitored. There are several factory presets to support many different tastes. Some
presets may not sound much different at first, but will perform very depending on program
content. When in doubt, try turning the upmixing process off or as a last resort use the
Master Bypass feature which will remove the UPMAX completely from the signal path.

Linear Acoustic UPMAX User Guide Connections and Quick Setup
12

Linear Acoustic UPMAX User Guide
13
Chapter 3: Applications
The UPMAX is intended to be used either in the production or distribution stages of 5.1
channel programming, and also selectively in transmission environments. For transmission
applications such as at DTV stations, the Linear Acoustic AERO line of products may be
more appropriate as they also contain requisite loudness processing and additional useful
features such as voiceover and EAS insertion.
The Linear Acoustic UPMAX is not a substitute for a good, discrete multichannel
mix (if one is available), however it is a useful tool to help create one.
That being said, the UPMAX is an excellent tool useful in either creating a 5.1 channel ver-
sion of a program when few or no other elements exist, and also for creating a solid foun-
dation for a true discrete multichannel mix.
This chapter discusses several applications of the UPMAX:
• Integrating 2-channel commercials into a 5.1 channel program
• Creating a 5.1 channel sports program from stereo plus natural sources
• Use for music programming
• Discussion of presets stored in the unit
3.1 Typical Scenarios
Below are some application examples to give users some guidance in real-world situations.
However, before continuing, it is absolutely imperative that a proper multichannel moni-
toring environment be set up and calibrated before every mix. If the mix cannot be heard
properly, then it cannot be created properly. Users are advised to obtain copies of ATSC
A/85 (www.atsc.org/standards) for detailed, accurate information on modern monitoring
practices.
The Linear Acoustic UPMAX is useful almost anywhere a multichannel mix must be cre-
ated. From hands-on adjust-as-you-go environments like a music awards program to set-
and-forget applications like helping two-channel commercials fit into 5.1-channel pro-
gramming, the UPMAX is the answer.

Linear Acoustic UPMAX User Guide Applications
14
3.1.1 Two-Channel Commercials and Interstitial Programming
One of the largest complaints viewers of digital and high definition television program-
ming is the annoying fact that stereo commercials don’t seem to “fit” into the 5.1-channel
program. This is because in many cases, the commercials are simply transmitted on the
Left and Right channels of a 5.1-channel program. The net result is that during the pro-
gram, dialogue comes from the center speaker, but at commercial or station breaks, all of
the dialogue comes from the left and right speakers. It can be a jarring experience.
The first application is one where the UPMAX 2251 processes the stereo material allowing
it to fit nicely within a 5.1 channel program. Figure 3-1 shows this scenario.
Figure 3-1 UPMAX in a commercial upmixing application
Note that the two channel material is simply input to the UPMAX and a 5.1 channel signal
is available at the output. Either of the Commercial or Music presets can be chosen, and
are explained in detail at the end of this chapter.
Linear Acoustic
UPMAX
MainInput
Lt/Rt
(REF)
Byp/Enc
Input
C/LFE
Byp/Enc
Input
Ls/Rs
X
X
Main Out
Lf/Rf
Main Out
C/LFE
Main Out
Ls/Rs
Encoder
Out
LoRo/LtRt
5.1 Channel
Main Output
Two-Channel
UtilityOutput
Two-Channel
Local Plant
Byp/Enc
Input
Lf/Rf
X