Aphex Unveils New Model 204 Aural ExciterJul 02, 2001 
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Aphex Systems, which this year celebrates 26 years in the pro-audio industry, has unveiled a new, revitalized version of its world-famous Aural Exciter. The new Model 204, which replaces the older Model 104, features a new Optical Big Bottom for enhanced low-end response; two independent channels; new packaging with a revamped front-panel layout; internal power supply; XLR and 1/4-inch input and output connectors; plus updated circuitry for improved overall sound quality and user flexibility. Recommended user price within the US is $400.00. The announcement was made by Aphex president Marvin Caesar. The Model 204 Aural Exciter has a wide range of application in sound recording, broadcast and TV production, live sound reinforcement, nightclubs, discos and similar environments. "By extending the harmonics of an audio path, the 204 is able to restore the natural brightness, clarity, and presence that may have been lost during analog/digital conversions or 'less-than-perfect' audio equipment," Caesar states. "Now users can bring their sound back to life with a minimal investment." "The new Model 204 Aural Exciter with Optical Big Bottom increases presence and clarity of audio signals," Caesar says, "in addition to restoring natural brightness, providing greater perceived loudness plus improving 'sonic detail' and intelligibility. The Big Bottom circuitry provides deeper, more resonant bass with little or no increase in peak output." The Model 204 features a new-Millennium front-panel design and operator controls, plus a custom light-dependent resistor as the gain-control element. As a result, dynamic range is increased by 10 dB with increased flexibility. "The new Model 204 Aural Exciter with Optical Big Bottom will dramatically improve live, recorded and broadcast sound," Caesar offers. "The new Aural Exciter with tunable harmonics enhances the detail, clarity and presence of any instrument, voice or even an entire mix. The new Big Bottom with adjustable tune control provides deeper, more powerful bass performance. And users can enjoy all of these benefits without adding more power amplifier and loudspeakers." Since its introduction in 1975, the Aphex Aural Exciter has been used on thousands of hit albums and successful musical tours. The patented audio process recreates missing harmonics without generating significant changes in the actual signal level. "Because of the loss in harmonic detail, reproduced sound is audibly different from the original live sound," Caesar points out, "often sounding dull and lifeless. The Aural Exciter adds harmonics, restoring the sounds natural brightness, clarity and presence, effectively improving detail and intelligibility." Unlike equalizers and other brightness enhancers, which only boost the high frequencies and often alters the overall tonal balance, the Aural Exciter extends the high frequencies. The stereo image is enhanced with the unit, resulting in a greater perceived loudness without an introduction of noise into the audio path due to increased gain. "Vocals and instruments seem to stand out," Caesar says, "without raising individual volumes in the mix." The patented Big Bottom circuit dynamically shapes the bass response in the 20-120 Hz range, increasing the perception of low frequencies without boosting the maximum peak output. "The bass-frequency response is dynamically optimized to isolate and enhance the lowest bass frequencies," Caesar continues, "and provide a deeper and more resonant bass without overloading the sound system." Use of Big Bottom tightens the bass, allowing individual notes to be more articulated and recognizable. For more information, visit their web site at www.aphex.com. |
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