Product details

The SPL Audio SMC 5.1 is a professional analog surround monitor controller designed for accurate 5.1 surround and stereo monitoring in music production, film post-production, broadcast, and multimedia studios. Combining six-channel analog volume control with flexible source selection and comprehensive loudspeaker management, it enables engineers to compare multiple audio sources and control monitoring levels independently of their DAW. Its transparent analog signal path preserves audio detail while providing essential tools for reliable surround mixing and stereo reference checks.

Key Features

6-Channel Analog Volume Control: Adjusts the overall level of a 5.1 surround system through a single master control.
Multiple Source Selection: Accommodates two 5.1 surround sources and two stereo sources for convenient comparison between mixes and reference material.
5.1 and Stereo Monitoring: Supports surround workflows alongside dedicated stereo monitoring, making it suitable for hybrid production environments.
Balanced Multichannel Connectivity: A DB25 input supports balanced multichannel connections from compatible audio interfaces and DAW systems.
Stereo RCA Inputs: Connect consumer audio equipment, including CD, DVD, and Blu-ray players.
Individual Speaker Switching: Switch each loudspeaker output on or off independently to check specific channels and configure monitoring setups.
Mono Monitoring: Switch the front or rear stereo pair to mono for checking mono compatibility and identifying potential mix issues.
Mute All Function: Quickly silences the speaker outputs when unwanted signals or playback problems occur.
Consumer-Level Compensation: Compensates for the nominal level difference between consumer-level −10 dBV sources and professional studio-level signals to facilitate fair comparisons.
DB25 Slave Output: Passively routes the input signals to an external multichannel meter or compatible monitoring device.
Transparent Analog Signal Path: Maintains a direct analog monitoring workflow without requiring digital conversion inside the controller.
Internal Linear Power Supply: Uses an internal linear power supply with a toroidal transformer for stable operation.
Compact Studio Construction: A durable desktop design manufactured in Germany.

Technical Specifications

Product Type: Analog 5.1 surround and stereo monitor controller
Surround Volume Control: 6-channel analog
Input Sources: 2 × 5.1 surround and 2 × stereo
Balanced Input Connector: DB25, Tascam-standard pinout
Additional Inputs: Stereo RCA connections
Speaker Outputs: 6 balanced 6.35 mm (¼-inch) TRS outputs for 5.1 surround, plus a stereo output pair
Slave Output: DB25 passive input loop-through
Maximum Input Level: +21 dBu (manufacturer specification)
Input Impedance: 50 kΩ (DB25/TRS); 10 kΩ (RCA)
Output Impedance: Less than 600 Ω (balanced TRS)
Frequency Response: 10 Hz – 100 kHz (−3 dB)
THD + N: 0.002% at 18 dBu, 10 Hz–22 kHz
Noise: −98 dBu, A-weighted
Dynamic Range: 119 dB
Common-Mode Rejection: 70 dB at 1 kHz (manufacturer specification)
Analog Operating Voltage: ±15 V
Internal Supply Voltage for Relays and LEDs: +12 V
Mains Supply: 230 V AC / 50 Hz or 115 V AC / 60 Hz, factory-set configuration
Power Consumption: Maximum 10 W
Dimensions (W × H × D): 272 × 91 × 220 mm
Unit Weight: Approximately 2.3 kg
Manufacturing Origin: Germany