The Boredbrain Music Monitr is a reliable and comprehensive audio output monitoring module that has been designed for Eurorack systems. This module is equipped with a stereo VCA-controlled input mixer that has CV per channel and master volume control, along with dual 5-segment VU meters and a powerful headphone section that can be used for both live performance and detailed monitoring.
One of the most notable features of the Monitr is its two stereo inputs, IN 1 and IN 2, which are AC-coupled specifically for audio signals. These input signals are mixed using stereo VCA circuits that not only reduce noise but also allow for external voltage control. The CHAN 1 and CHAN 2 parameters are available for manual adjustments of audio levels, while the VCA1 and VCA2 jacks accept control voltages.
In addition to the stereo inputs, the Monitr also features a master volume control that provides visual indication of the output volume using two 5-segment VU meters. These VU meters have been scaled specifically for +4 dBu professional line-level output. To optimize the signal's dynamic range when feeding into audio interfaces or amplifiers, it's recommended to keep the master signal volumes at or below +3 dBu (GREEN, YELLOW) and transient peaks occasionally reaching +6 dBu (RED).
The headphone circuit of the Monitr is designed to drive a wide range of headphones and comes with a level adjustment and 3-way selectable cue source. The headphone source is selected using a 3-way switch, which is useful for cueing during live performances. The LEVEL parameter adjusts the volume of the stereo headphones that are plugged into the PHONES jack, and the acceptable headphone impedance ranges from 32 Ω up to 600 Ω.
Overall, the Monitr is a versatile and powerful tool that offers low-noise balanced pro line-level outputs at +4 dBu. This module can be used to conveniently mute the output using the System mute switch and drive a wide range of headphones for both live performances and detailed monitoring.
Example Usage
If you're a novice user of the Boredbrain Music Monitr, the module's headphone circuit is the perfect way to monitor your sound output. To use it, simply plug your headphones into the PHONES jack and adjust the LEVEL parameter to adjust the volume. The 3-way switch allows you to select which audio source to monitor through the headphones - either the master output signal, or the signals coming from each input channel individually. This is especially useful for live performances when you need to cue specific channels to make sure everything is sounding just right.
An intermediate-level usage example for the Boredbrain Music Monitr module could be creating a live performance setup with a DJ mixer and a eurorack system. By connecting the two stereo outputs of the DJ mixer to the Monitr's two stereo inputs, IN 1 and IN 2 respectively, and adjusting the CHAN 1 and CHAN 2 levels, the mixed audio signal can be controlled by Monitr's master volume control. The 3-way headphone cue switch can be used to monitor either the master output signal or the two input signals separately, depending on the cue needs during the live performance. The mute output switch can be used to silence the main output during soundcheck without affecting the headphone cue section. Lastly, the balanced line-level outputs OUT L and OUT R can be connected to a PA system or audio interface using balanced TRS cables for optimal signal quality.
Further Thoughts
One possible usage example for the Boredbrain Music Monitr module would be in a live performance setup. The module's stereo VCA mixer would be used to combine the audio signals from two different instruments or sources, and the CHAN 1 and CHAN 2 controls could be adjusted to balance their levels. The mixed stereo signal would then be sent to the master volume control, which could be set at an appropriate level using the VU meters for reference. The headphone cueing section could be used to monitor the individual input sources separately, allowing the performer to hear each instrument clearly. Finally, the balanced output jacks would be used to send the mixed signal to the front-of-house audio system for the audience to hear. With its comprehensive set of features, the Boredbrain Music Monitr provides precise control over the output of a eurorack system and is an excellent addition to any live performance setup.