TM2
INTEGRATED EAR-SIMULATOR (COUPLER) FOR IEM TEST AND MEASUREMENT
The TM2 is an Integrated Ear-Simulator (coupler) specifically designed for test and measurement in the professional sound industry.
Ear simulator “couplers” are the measurement devices used by manufacturers of IEMs for capturing key metrics during research and development, final production and quality control of IEMs. Using patent-pending technology, the TM2 incorporates these features into an integrated compact package that is ideally suited for sound and studio engineers who want a simple, yet effective way to test IEM performance.
Monitor engineers are often faced with questions from performers regarding the functionality of their IEMs with no reliably consistent method to test them in their environment. With the TM2 and readily available measurement software such as Rational Acoustic’s SMAART or Studio Six Digital’s Audio Tools, a monitor engineer can easily confirm the functionality of each performer’s IEMs as part of a pre-show checklist.
Features
- Durable, compact design
- Calibration file included
- 3-year warranty
Applications
- Live Performances
- Broadcast, TV & Radio
- House of Worship
Model Variations
- TM2SP – TM2 stereo pair w/ mounting base
Transducer Type | Pre-polarized condenser |
---|---|
Frequency Response | 20 Hz – 20 kHz |
Output Impedance | 200 Ohms |
Sensitivity | Nom 6.5mV /Pa @ 1k (sensitivity for each unit included with calibration data) |
Maximum SPL | 130 dB |
Signal to Noise Ratio | 68 dB |
Equivalent Noise Level | 26 dB (A weighted) |
Dynamic Range | 104 dB |
Connector | 3-pin XLRm |
Power Requirements | 24 – 48 V Phantom |
Power Consumption | 9 mA @ 48 Volts |
Polarity | Positive pressure produces positive voltage on pin 2 relative to pin 3 of output XLR connector |
Materials / Finish | Precision-machined components with nickel and anodized finish |
Weight (without adapters) | 190 g |
Dimensions | 57 mm x 41 mm |
Package Weight | 564 g |
Package Dimensions | 243 mm x 147 mm x 97 mm |
Professional Ear Simulator Design Principles
Similar to loudspeaker measurement with microphones, ear simulators measure the acoustical response of earphones and headphones that are placed in or over the ear. Lab and Pro Ear Simulators such as the TM2 incorporate a series of chambers and passages, the IEM tip is inserted into the opening of the main chamber A, which is connected by B, 500-micron passages to chambers C, D, E, which simulate the dampening and impedance of the average human ear canal. At the base of the main chamber is the transducer which acts similar to the human eardrum and converts the acoustic signal of the IEM. (See diagram below)
Ear Simulator Response VS T&M Microphone
When we measure a loudspeaker with a theoretical flat response, we expect to see the red curve. When we measure the same speaker with an ear simulator, the response will be similar to the yellow graph. For this reason, IEM and headphone measurements utilizing an ear simulator are not flat.
Audix Invariable™ Adaptors
Audix Invariable™ adaptors are designed to provide fast and repeatable measurements. They will not match the curves provided by the IEM manufacturer. In order to duplicate the manufacturer’s test results, utilize their recommended adaptor with the TM2. The graph below shows an example of the same IEM measured with an IEC 711 adaptor and an Audix Invariable adaptor.
Setup and Initial IEM Measurement
- Select software that includes transfer function measurement such as Rational Acoustic’s SMAART, AFMG’s Systune, Studio Six Digital’s AudioTools and an audio interface.
- Within the selected software, configure the TM2 as a reference mic.
- Connect TM2 output into a “mic level” input of the audio interface with phantom power.
- When testing with a bare nozzle, use the appropriate adaptor size. With IEM tips attached, use the ear simulator adaptor.
- Connect IEMs to sound source.
- Ensure that sound source is also assigned as a reference within test-and-measurement software.
- Measure the response of your IEM.
General Tips
- On a regular or as-needed basis, retest IEMs to ensure performance is consistent. If the new measurement shows any major changes:
- Gently insert the IEM and turn slightly for a good acoustic seal.
- Make sure there is no change in EQ settings.
- Modern digital mixing consoles with USB output for recording can be used for the TM2 in conjunction with Mac / PC-based software noted above. All that is needed is an available channel for the TM2 input. Configure software I/O to coincide with TM2 input channel and pink noise output for IEM device under test (DUT).
- Studio Six AudioTools for iOS requires the transfer function module “in-app purchase”. Audix has verified operation of the Studio Six iAudioInterface2 with the TM2. Headphone output from the iAudioInterface2 is sufficient to drive IEM levels necessary for testing.