KV2 audio SDD3 Super Digital Delay Line User Guide

July 15, 2024
KV2 audio

KV2 audio SDD3 Super Digital Delay Line

KV2-audio-SDD3-Super-Digital-Delay-Line-PRODUCT

Product Usage Instructions

  • Unpack the SDD3 and inspect for any damage.
  • If damage is found, notify the supplier immediately for a claim.
  • Retain the original packaging for potential shipping needs.
  • Mount the SDD3 in a standard 19-inch rack using four screws and washers.
  • Consider using a shock-mounted rack for touring applications to protect the device.
  • Connect the SDD3 to a mains socket with proper earthing.
  • The device operates in either 115V or 230V mode, preconfigured at the factory.
  • Ensure the power supply cord is easily accessible.
  • Operate within 90V to 130V in 115V mode or 180V to 260V in 230V mode at 50 or 60Hz.
  • If LEDs do not illuminate or the system does not respond, disconnect the power immediately and check the voltage.

FAQ

  • Q: What is the maximum delay time of the SDD3?
  • A: The maximum delay time is 393,216ms.
  • Q: Can the SDD3 be used for subwoofer applications?
  • A: Yes, the SDD3 has one dedicated channel for subwoofer delay lines.
  • Q: How should I handle shipping of the SDD3?
  • A: Use the original packaging for shipping and contact your supplier if replacements are needed.

The Future of Sound.
Made Perfectly Clear.
At KV2 Audio our vision is to constantly develop technologies that eliminate distortion and loss of information providing a true dynamic representation of the source.
Our aim is to create audio products that absorb you, place you within the performance, and deliver a listening experience beyond expectations.

Important Safety Instructions

Before using your SDD3, be sure to carefully read the applicable items of these operating instructions and the safety suggestions.

  1. Read all product instructions.
  2. Keep printed instructions, do not throw away.
  3. Respect and review all warnings.
  4. Follow all instructions.
  5. Do not use this unit near water, in unprotected outdoor areas or in rain or wet conditions.
  6. Clean only with dry cloth.
  7. Do not block any ventilation openings.
  8. Install by KV2 Audio’s recommended installation instructions.
  9. Do not install near any heat sources such as heat radiators, heat registers, stoves or other apparatus that produce heat.
  10. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the grounding type plug. A grounding-type plug has two blades and a third grounding connector. The third connector is provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for the replacement of the obsolete outlet.
  11. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched, particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles and the point where they exit from the SDD3. The AC mains plug or an appliance coupler shall remain readily accessible for operation.
  12. Only use accessories specified by KV2 Audio.
  13. The unit is intended for use in a 19″ rack. Follow the mounting instructions.
  14. Unplug SDD3 during lightning storms or when unused for long periods.
  15. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the SDD3 has been damaged in any way, such as when the power-supply cord or plug has been damaged; liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the SDD3; rain or moisture has entered the SDD3; the SDD3 has been dropped; or when for undetermined reasons the SDD3 does not operate normally.
  16. Do not remove top or bottom covers. Removal of the cover will expose hazardous voltages. There are no user serviceable parts inside and removable may void the warranty.
  17. An experienced user shall always supervise this professional audio equipment.

CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE THE COVER.
NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL.
WARNING: To prevent fire or electric shock, do not expose this equipment to rain or moisture.

Application
Especially designed as a super high-quality audio delay line

  • Fixed installations
  • Live music and performance
  • Can be used to enhance the performance of third-party systems

Introduction

The SDD3 is a 2-channel full-range stereo audio delay line, with one dedicated channel subwoofer delay line.
Full range channels are specifically for delaying audio signals for main PA systems or side fills, with a maximum delay time of 393, 216ms (approx 134m / 442ft).
Each channel is equipped with a tunable high pass filter for easy side fills setup.
The full-range channels use super digital technology with wide bandwidth and enhanced dynamic range. For optimal analog to digital converter driving, the full range channels are equipped with ADC sensitivity control, which increases input level and reduces output level at the same time, so the level pass in the SDD3 does not change when adjusting the ADC sensitivity. The input level can be seen on the level meters. The output level can be set in the range from -10 to +10dB.
The subwoofer channel is dedicated for delaying subwoofers with a bandwidth of 0 to 120Hz and maximum delay time
of 10ms (approx 3,43m / 11,25ft).
The subwoofer channel has two independent outputs which can be linked together for easy cardioid setup. The subwoofer channel is designed like a digitally controlled analog unit. The output level can be set in the range from -10 to +10dB.
Each audio input has parallel outputs for easy audio device branching. Each audio output features line drivers to maintain audio signal integrity over long cable lengths. Each output is equipped with a phase reverse switch and a true bypass feature. When the device is switched off, all channels are bypassed.

Dimensions

Front Panel

KV2-audio-SDD3-Super-Digital-Delay-Line-FIG-1

Rear Panel

KV2-audio-SDD3-Super-Digital-Delay-Line-FIG-2

Side Panel

KV2-audio-SDD3-Super-Digital-Delay-Line-FIG-3

Unpacking
Unpack the SDD3 and check to see if there is any damage to it. If you find any damage notify your supplier immediately. Only the consignee may institute a claim with the carrier for any damage incurred during shipping. Be sure to save the carton and all packaging materials for the carrier’s inspection.
Should you ever need to ship the unit, only use the original factory packaging. If the shipping carton is unavailable, contact your supplier to obtain a replacement.
The SDD3 carton should contain

  • SDD3 Super Digital Audio Delay
  • User’s Guide
  • IEC Power Cable

Rack mounting
The SDD3 will be mounted in a standard 19” rack system. Use four screws and washers to mount the SDD3 to the rack rails.
We recommend using a shock-mounted rack for touring use to prolong the life of your SDD3.
To prevent accidental adjustment of settings, or unwanted tampering in a fixed installation, KV2 Audio provides an additional security panel as an accessory.
AC Power requirements
The SDD3 uses a standard IEC 3-pole AC connector. The device must be connected to a main socket outlet with a protective earthing connection. The SDD3 operates in either 115V or 230V mode. This setup is preconfigured at the factory. The mains plug of the power supply cord shall remain readily operable.
Voltage requirements
The SDD3 operates safely and without audio discontinuity if the AC voltage stays within the operating window of 90V to 130V in 115V mode or 180V to 260V when working in 230V mode at 50 or 60Hz.

IF ANY LED DOES NOT ILLUMINATE OR THE SYSTEM DOES NOT RESPOND TO AUDIO INPUT REMOVE AC POWER IMMEDIATELY. VERIFY THAT THE VOLTAGE IS WITHIN THE PROPER RANGE. IF THE PROBLEM PERSISTS, PLEASE CONTACT KV2 AUDIO OR AN AUTHORIZED SERVICE CENTER.

Connector wiring

XLR Balanced Input and Output connectors.

KV2-audio-SDD3-Super-Digital-Delay-Line-FIG-4

IF IT IS NECESSARY TO CONVERT BALANCED OUTPUT TO UNBALANCED, IT IS IMPOSSIBLE TO SHORT HOT(2) OR COLD(3) PINS WITH GROUND(1). IN THIS EVENT THE LINE DRIVERS WILL CAUSE PERMANENT DISCONNECTION.
FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE REFER

Features Front panel

Front Panel

KV2-audio-SDD3-Super-Digital-Delay-Line-FIG-5

Channels A and B
ADC sensitivity
For optimal analog to digital converter driving, the full range channels (A and B) are equipped with ADC sensitivity control which increases input level and reduces output level at the same time, so the level pass in the SDD3 does not change when adjustings the ADC sensitivity.
The input level can be seen on the level meters. For optimal ADC driving run the level meters so that the signal will exceed 0dB meter level, but never reaches clip level.

High Pass Filter

  • The full range channels (A and B) are equipped with a tunable high pass filter filter from 0 to 160Hz. It has a slope of 12dB/octave and it is used for easy and optimal setup for side fills, or to protect your subwoofer system from the frequencies that cannot reproduce efficiently and may cause damage.

Output level

  • The output level can be set in range from -10 to +10dB.

Phase

  • Each output is equipped with a phase reverse switch, which reverses the phase of the output signal.

Subwoofer channel C
Output level

  • The output level can be set in range from -10 to +10dB.

Phase

  • Each output is equipped with a phase reverse switch, which reverses the phase of the output signal.

Front Panel

KV2-audio-SDD3-Super-Digital-Delay-Line-FIG-8

Display

  • Indicates the input levels for each channel separately. Shows the set delays and allows settings of various functions in the menu.

KV2-audio-SDD3-Super-Digital-Delay-Line-FIG-9

Function / Exit button

  • Allows the operator to toggle between three main screens – LEVELS, DELAY, MENU. When you are inside the menu, the button serves as exit.

Channel / Next button

  • This button switches between channels, the selected channel is indicated by green LED indicators. When you are inside the menu, this button serves as a skip to the next menu item.

Rotation encoder with Enter pushbutton

  • The encoder serves as the main way for increasing (clockwise), or decreasing (counterclockwise) values and menu positions.
  • The encoder also serves as the ENTER button, allowing the operator to enter/leave the submenu in the main menu.
  • When the DELAY main screen is selected, the Enter button changes the math point digits.

Bypass button

  • When the bypass button is pressed, all channels are bypassed, (true bypass). When bypassed, the function is indicated by the red LED light above this button.

Rear Panel

KV2-audio-SDD3-Super-Digital-Delay-Line-FIG-10

Power Connection

Plug power connector

  • For connection to a standard IEC 3-pole AC connector.
  • Before connecting make sure that the mains voltage corresponds to the SDD3’s voltage requirements as stated on the unit.

Power switch

  • Used to turn the SDD3 on or off.

Subwoofer Channel Connectors
Input

  • Balanced female – XLR connector for connecting the subwoofer signal. The audio input circuit presents a 20kΩ balanced input impedance.

Output
The through / output balanced male – XLR connector, wired in parallel to the audio input, will continue to provide the input signal if the SDD is turned off.
Delay output
Two separated subwoofer outputs with balanced male-XLR connectors. The max. allowed output frequency is 120Hz.
When using the subwoofer channel in normal mode SUB1 and SUB2 delay outputs are separated. When using the subwoofer channel in cardioid mode, output SUB1/FRONT serves as the front subwoofer output and SUB2/REAR serves as the rear cardioid subwoofer output. In cardioid mode the delay setup is linked together for a determined and easy cardioid setup.
For more information about cardioid setup, please refer to the Cardioid setup part of this guide.

Full Range Channels (A and B) Connectors
Input
Balanced female – XLR connector for connecting full range signal. The audio input circuit presents a 20kΩ balanced input impedance.

Output
The through / output balanced male – XLR connector, wired in parallel to the audio input, will continue to provide the input signal if the SDD is turned off.
Delay output
Delayed output with balanced male – XLR connectors.
Reset
Pressing this button resets the SDD3 to factory setup.

Using the System

Delay for additional PA/fill-in delay, with mono cardioid subwoofers in the center
The main PA works directly, without delay. The left and right channels of the secondary or side-fill PA work through the full range channels of the SDD3, (channel A and B) for proper time alignment with the main PA. Subwoofers are in the center and work in mono, cardioid mode.
When using this system, it is possible to move in time (change the distance) of side fills and the mono subwoofers in cardioid mode compared to the main PA.

KV2-audio-SDD3-Super-Digital-Delay-Line-FIG-14

Delay for main mono PA, delay for additional PA/mono fill-in delay, with stereo cardioid

  • One SDD3 controls one channel of the system, the second channel controls the second SDD3 unit.
  • The main PA works through SDD3 channel A to delay the PA for optimal time alignment with the stage position.
  • The secondary, or side-fill PA works through the full range channel B of SDD3 for proper time alignment with the main PA.
  • Subwoofers work in stereo, cardioid or normal mode.
  • When using this system, it is possible to move separately in time, (change distance) of the main PA, side fills and subwoofers compared to the stage position.

KV2-audio-SDD3-Super-Digital-Delay-Line-FIG-15

Digital part description
The SDD3 has three main display screens for setup and input levels indication. Main screens are: LEVEL – for input levels indications, DELAY for delay setup and MENU for attributes settings. For switching between these screens use FUNC/EXIT button.

Level

  • For optimal analog to digital converter driving the full range channels (channels A and B) are equipped with ADC sensitivity control which increases input level and reduces the output level at the same time, so the level pass in the SDD3 is not change when adjusting the ADC sensitivity. ADC sensitivity allows the optimal setup of signal-to-noise ratio.
  • The input level can be seen on the input level meter indicators. For optimal ADC driving run the level meters so that the signal will exceed 0dB meter level, but never reach clip level. Level meters are equipped with peak memory and 2 2-second auto reset.

Delay

  • Delay can be set for each channel individually, delays can be set in time or distance. Required delay is set by changing numbers on the math point position. Delay numbers are changed by rotating the rotary encoder. Math position is changed by pushing the rotary encoder (ENTER). Delay changes are reflected in real-time.
  • The current selected channel can be switched by pressing the CHAN/NEXT button. The selected channel is indicated by an LED.
  • The subwoofer channel can be set in 32 fixed steps, with step increments of 0.31ms. The subwoofer channel has two outputs, these outputs can be set individually in normal mode or linked in cardioid mode.
  • In normal mode, delay can be set in time or distance, in cardioid mode, delays are set in distance. The distance between the front and rear cardioid subwoofer is precalculated by a set cardioid frequency. Cardioid frequency can be set in the range of 40 to 100Hz. In cardioid mode cardioid delay is set for the entire cardioid pair.

Setup

Menu
Units mode

  • Delay mode
  • Delay can be set in time (miliseconds) or in distance (meters or feet depending on unit setup). When switching between time and distance, the delay time is kept and recalculated to each other. The delay distance depends on the ambient temperature.

Units

  • It is possible to switch between metric (meters, °C ) and imperial (feet, °F) units, when switching between each other, the distance is maintained.

Link AB

  • It is possible to link channel A and B delay setup when both delays are the same. When switching to Link AB, the delay of both channels is set by channel A.

Subwoofer mode
Cardioid setup
Bass is usually omnidirectional but by using a cardioid bass array you can reduce bass feedback on stage and also minimise noise pollution from events. When using cardioid mode, the front subwoofer is 1/4 wavelength of the tuned cardioid frequency in front of the rear subwoofer. The front subwoofer is fed with a 1/4 wavelength delay compared to the rear sub. This configuration results in a cardioid polar response,(because of addition and subtraction of the subwoofer signals).

Cardioid calculation – example
Subwoofers distance (d) corresponds to 1/4 wavelength (λ) of the tuned cardioid frequency (f ).
Speed of sound (v) varies with temperature, for 20°C is approx 343m/s.

  • λ = 1 / 4f
  • d = v * λ

Subwoofer mode

  • For cardioid setup, you can calculate and set the delay for each subwoofer manually, or you can use cardioid setup in the SDD3 menu.
  • For manual – independent sub outputs setup, use the normal mode. For cardioid setup use the cardioid mode. When the cardioid mode is selected, the subwoofer outputs are linked together with λ/4 distance between the front and rear subwoofer outputs.
  • In cardioid mode, the selected cardioid-tuned frequency can be operated in the range from 40Hz to 120Hz with 10Hz steps.
  • The subwoofer pair’s polar characteristics are cardioid on this frequency, whilst uder and above this frequency the polar characteristics of the subwoofer pair are omnidirectional with increasing differences from cardioid frequency.
  • The cardioid distance is shown on the cardioid frequency setup screen.

KV2-audio-SDD3-Super-Digital-Delay-Line-FIG-24

Memory
New memory

  • SDD3 is equipped with a dynamic memory list with up to 30 memory positions. New memory can be created when pressing ENTER at New in the memory list.
  • When a new memory is created, it is marked with a position number from 1 to 30 whilst the memory function select is switched to the rename position.

Rename memory

  • Memory names can contain up to 8 letters, spaces or numbers.
  • To rename a memory select the memory position to rename and select rename at the memory function list, press ENTER.
  • When renaming, the renaming letter flashes, select the required letter by rotating the encoder. Switch between A – Z, a – z , and spacebar 1 – 9 using the CHAN/NEXT button.
  • To jump to the next letter position, press ENTER.
  • To exit renaming press FUNC/EXIT button.
  • When new memory is created the actual setup is automatically saved.

Save to memory

  • All delays, units, delay mode, and cardioid setup are saved into the memory.
  • To save to memory, select the memory position to save in and select save from the memory function list, press ENTER.
  • When saved, the memory number, is shown in the top right corner.

Memory recall

  • To recall from memory, select the memory position to recall and select recall at the memory function list, press ENTER.
  • When recalled, the memory number is shown in the top right corner.

KV2-audio-SDD3-Super-Digital-Delay-Line-FIG-27

Delete memory

  • To delete a memory, select the memory position to delete and select delete in the memory function list, press ENTER.

Lock
The SDD3 is equipped with an option to lock the setup of the digital control part. The SDD3 can be locked using four arbitrary capital letters. When the SDD3 unit is locked, it is not possible to change digital parameters. LEVEL meters and delay settings are still visible.

Set the Lock password

  • To set the lock password enter the Lock menu, select the Password position and select set at the Lock function list, press ENTER. Set the requested letter by rotating the encoder.
  • To jump to the next letter position press ENTER.
  • To exit renaming press FUNC/EXIT button.
  • The password must be set complete, with all 4 letters.
  • The password consists only of capital letters.

Lock now

  • When the password is set, the SDD3 can be locked automatically using the Autolock function, or manually using Lock now function.

KV2-audio-SDD3-Super-Digital-Delay-Line-FIG-29

Autolock

  • The automatic lock function can be selected between 1min, 10mins, 1 hour, or can be switched off. After this time, when the SDD3 parameters are not being changed, the SDD3 unit is automatically locked.

Unlock

  • When locked, the MENU is replaced with an unlock screen.
  • To unlock, set the LOCK screen and set the correct password letter by rotating the encoder. To jump to the next letter position press ENTER. When all 4 letters are entered correctly, the SDD3 will unlock..

KV2-audio-SDD3-Super-Digital-Delay-Line-FIG-30

Forgotten password

  • A forgotten password can be deleted by using the RESET switch at the back of the SDD3. Pressing the RESET button resets the SDD3 to the factory default setup and all previous memory settings will be deleted back to the factory default!

Display

  • The SDD3 is equipped with a high-contrast organic – LED display.

Contrast

  • The contrast of the display can be set in the range from 10% to 100% for comfortable use, depending on ambient lighting.KV2-audio-SDD3-Super-Digital-Delay-Line-FIG-31

Autodim

  • To ensure the long life of the display, the display automatically reduces the contrast when the unit is not currently used.

Temperature

  • The SDD3 calculates delay distances using the speed of sound. Speed of sound varies with temperature.
  • The SDD3 allows the user to set the ambient temperature to calculate accurate delay settings.

Ambient

  • The ambient temperature can be set in the range from -20°C to +40°C with 5°C steps. When the SDD3 units are set to imperial, the temperature is displayed in °F.
  • When the SDD3 unit is switched to distance mode, and the ambient temperature changed, you can select the new temperature, the delay time is then recalculated to keep the most consistent distance.

KV2-audio-SDD3-Super-Digital-Delay-Line-FIG-34

Block Diagram

KV2-audio-SDD3-Super-Digital-Delay-Line-FIG-35

Dimensions

KV2-audio-SDD3-Super-Digital-Delay-Line-FIG-36

Input Cables and Output Cables

  • SDD3 Input Cables

XLR output – XLR input

  • Pin 2 – Pin 2 (Hot)
  • Pin 3 – Pin 3 (Cold)
  • Pin 1 – Pin 1 (Shield)

Jack output (balanced) – XLR input

  • Tip – Pin 2 (Hot)
  • Ring – Pin 3 (Cold)
  • Sleeve – Pin 1 (Shield)

Jack output (unbalanced) – XLR input

  • Tip – Pin 2 (Signal)
  • Sleeve – Pin 3 (Shield)
  • Sleeve – Pin 1 (Shield)

SDD3 Output Cables

XLR output – XLR input

  • Pin 2 – Pin 2 (Hot)
  • Pin 3 – Pin 3 (Cold)
  • Pin 1 – Pin 1 (Shield)

XLR output – Jack input (balanced)

  • Pin 2 – Tip (Hot)
  • Pin 3 – Ring (Cold)
  • Pin 1 – Sleeve (Shield)

XLR output – Jack input (unbalanced)

  • Pin 2 – Tip (Signal)
  • Pin 3 – No Connection
  • Pin 1 – Sleeve (Shield)

Specifications

System Acoustic Performance

  • 1dB Response: 2Hz to 40kHz
  • 10dB Response: 2Hz to 100kHz
  • Sampling Frequency: 20MHz, PDM
  • Dynamic Range: >105dB
  • Channel Crosstalk: 90dB
  • Signal to Noise Ratio: 105dB
  • Total Harmonic Distortion: <0.005%

Signal Input

  • Input Channels: 2 Full range + 1 Subwoofer
  • Input Impedance: 20kΩ (balanced)
  • Max. Input voltage: +14dBu
  • Line input: XLR

Signal Output

  • Signal Output Channels: 2 Full range + 2 Subwoofer
  • Output Impedance: 50Ω
  • Through Signal Output: XLR
  • Delay Signal Output: XLR

Features

  • Level Control: -10 / +10dB
  • Subwoofer Level Control: -10 / +10dB
  • System setup: Normal / Cardioid mode
  • Delay Range: 0.012ms to 393.216ms, step 0.003ms
  • Full Range Mode: 2 channels
  • Phase: 0° / 180°
  • High Pass Filter: OFF to 260Hz
  • Indicators: OLED Display
  • Memory: 30

Power Requirements

  • Power Connector: IEC 320
  • Operating Voltage: 115V / 230V
  • Operating Voltage Range: 90 to 130V@60Hz | 180 to 260V@50Hz

Physical Dimensions

  • Height: 44 mm (1.75″)
  • Width: 482.6 mm (19.0″)
  • Depth: 203 mm (7.9″)
  • Weight: 3.6 kg (7.94lbs)

Warranty

  • Your SDD3 is covered against defects in material and workmanship.
  • Refer to your supplier for more details.

Service

  • In the unlikely event that your SDD3 develops a problem, it must be returned to an authorized distributor, service centre or shipped directly to our factory. Because of the complexity of the design and the risk of electrical shock, all repairs must be attempted only by qualified technical personnel.
  • If the unit needs to be shipped back to the factory, it must be sent in its original carton. If improperly packed, the unit may be damaged.
  • To obtain service, contact your nearest KV2 Audio Service Centre, Distributor or Dealer.

CONTACT

KV2 Audio International

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