Bettermaker MASTERING LIMITER 2.0

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Overview

Function Description
Important Technical Specifications
Usage Features
Maintenance Features

The Bettermaker Mastering Limiter 2.0 is a professional audio mastering device designed to provide precise control over audio dynamics and enhance the overall sound quality. It features a hybrid design, combining analog signal processing with digital control and recall capabilities, making it a versatile tool for mastering engineers.

Function Description:

The core function of the Bettermaker Mastering Limiter 2.0 is to act as a mastering limiter, preventing audio signals from exceeding a set threshold while maintaining sonic integrity. It incorporates several key modules:

Limiter: The primary limiting section offers control over input and output gain, attack, release, and an intelligent release (IREL) function for optimized limiting behavior. It also includes a "Link" feature to link input and output gain for optimal mastering levels.
Clipper: This module provides both Zener diode-based saturation and analog hard clipping. The saturation adds harmonic richness, while the hard clip ensures peak-free output, crucial for digital mastering. The "Trim" parameter allows for adjusting the amount of saturation and clip.
Sidechain Filters: The sidechain section allows for frequency-dependent limiting, preventing unwanted pumping or ducking effects. It includes a high-pass filter (HPF) with adjustable frequencies and a mid-boost option at 2kHz or 7kHz. A "GR Range" control sets the range for gain reduction.
Color: This unique module introduces harmonic coloration to the audio. It features two independent "Color" sections, A and B, which can generate odd or even harmonics. Controls for drive, frequency, and mix allow for precise shaping of the harmonic content.
M/S Processing: The device supports Mid/Side processing, enabling independent control over the center (Mid) and stereo width (Side) components of the audio signal. This is particularly useful for fine-tuning the stereo image during mastering.
Metering: Comprehensive input and output metering are provided, including peak, RMS, and gain reduction displays. The metering can be calibrated to match external AD/DA converters or DAW readouts.

Important Technical Specifications:

Gain Reduction: Maximum 20 dB.
Input Adjust Range: 0 to +20 dB.
Output Adjust Range: -10 to +12 dB.
Makeup Gain: Automatic with trim (-/+8 dB range), available when the clipper is enabled.
Attack Time: 0.1 – 250 ms (measured at 63% of 10 dB GR).
Release Time: 1 ms – 2 s (measured at 63% of 10 dB GR) + IREL (intelligent release).
Sidechain HPF: Off or 20-200 Hz (2nd order).
Sidechain Mid Boost: Off or 8 dB @ 2 kHz or 7 kHz.
Metering ADC Range: 60 dB.
Maximum Input Level: +24 dBu (balanced with 48 kΩ input impedance).
Maximum Output Level: +27 dBu (balanced with 50 Ω + 50 Ω output impedance).
Nominal Audio Level: +4 dBu.
Frequency Response: 6 Hz – 27 kHz (-0.5 dB, ISO-R40 sweep).
Frequency Flatness: +/- 0.1 dB (20 Hz – 20 kHz, ISO-R40 sweep).
Dynamic Range: 107 dB (20 kHz bandwidth, +24 dBu).
THD+N Ratio: 0.05 % (20 kHz bandwidth, +4 dBu, 1 kHz).
THD Ratio: 0.03 % (+4 dBu, 1 kHz).
CMRR: > 80 dB (20 Hz – 20 kHz, IEC 60268-3).
Crosstalk: > 76 dB (20 Hz – 20 kHz, +18 dBu, channel to channel).
Connections: Balanced XLR (audio), USB type B (PC/MAC), 5.5/2.1 center positive 12V only socket.
Power Consumption: Max 25W (<2W in standby, with included 100-240VAC power adapter).
Enclosure: 2U, 230mm deep.
Shipping Weight and Size: 5 kg, 62x37x21 cm.

Usage Features:

Intuitive User Interface: The device features a clear touch screen display and dedicated knobs for input level, output gain, and two assignable function knobs (P1 and P2).
On/Standby Button: A push button for powering the unit on or off.
Engage Button with True Bypass: Allows for A/B comparison of the processed and unprocessed signal.
USB Link for DAW Control: The USB connection enables seamless integration with a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) via a dedicated plugin. This allows for remote control of all parameters and recall of settings.
Snapshot Functionality: The device can store up to 32 snapshots of its settings, which can be triggered by DAW automation. Copy and Paste functions facilitate creating variations of settings.
Metering Calibration: Input and output metering can be independently calibrated to match external AD/DA converters or DAW readouts, ensuring consistent visual feedback.
Power Saving Mode: Available for reduced power consumption when not actively in use.
Mid/Side Mode: Provides true bypass and allows for processing the Mid and Side components of the stereo signal.
State Memory: Internal non-volatile memory restores all settings after a power loss and provides 400 slots for presets and user configurations, independent of the DAW plug-in.
Supported Plugin Formats: AAX Native, AU, VST3.
Supported Operating Systems: macOS 13 down to macOS 10.11 (Intel or Apple Silicon) and Windows 11 down to Windows 8 (x64-compatible CPU).
System Requirements: Display resolution of 1440 × 900px or 1280 × 960px or higher, and 2 GB RAM.

Maintenance Features:

Firmware Updates: The firmware can be easily updated using a dedicated macOS/Windows application available on the Bettermaker website. This ensures the device stays up-to-date with the latest features and improvements.
No User Serviceable Parts: The unit is designed without user-serviceable parts. Removing the top lid will void the warranty. In case of any issues, users are advised to contact their seller.
Ventilation: It is recommended to use the unit in a well-ventilated environment to prevent overheating, which could affect performance.
Power Supply: Only the provided AC/DC adapter should be used.
Environmental Protection: The device should not be operated in the presence of rain, liquids, or condensing moisture to prevent electric shock, fire, or permanent failure.