Re: Audio monitoring setup for Final Cut systems

If you are doing any kind of broadcast work, then i suggest you also invest in a good outboard audio meter. I use dual PPM meters to ensure that everything i do is within the strict parameters laid down by the broadcasters.

As for monitoring, I take the audio output from the Kona breakout box, using distribution amps to split the signal I send the audio to both the studio monitors and the digibeta deck.

I use Mackies Big Knob as a monitor volume control (its basically a mixers monitor control section), and then feed the signal into a pair of PMC DB1SA monitors (www.pmcloudspeaker.com)....cost about £1000 but are about as accurate a sound as i have ever heard. I tested a huge range before settling on these and i have not regretted it for an instant.

Think carefully about whether you really need a mixer. Many people install them because they have seen them in other suites, but the reality is they only ever get used as a volume control. If you are switching between a myriad of analogue sources, then you probably need one. If you just use digital sources, then you shouldn't really need to play around with the levels during the ingest/output phases of your process.

adam

Editor/Mixer
Character Options Ltd
Oldham, UK