User Manual

CLARITY M
Desktop Audio Meter with 7" High Resolution Display and
USB Connection for Plug-In Metering

2018-05-10, Version 2.0

2 CLARITY M User Manual

Table of Contents
Important Safety Instructions....................................... 3
Legal Disclaimer.............................................................. 3
Limited warranty............................................................. 3
1. Introduction................................................................ 4
2. Mounting..................................................................... 4
3. Hook-up....................................................................... 4
4. Controls and Connectors........................................... 8
5. SUB-D Cable................................................................ 9
6. General Operation...................................................... 9
7. Editing Presets.......................................................... 12
8. Library....................................................................... 14
9. System....................................................................... 15
10. Plug-in Metering..................................................... 15
11. Firmware Updates................................................... 18
12. Specifications.......................................................... 19
13. DB15 Cable Pin Assignments................................. 19
3 CLARITY M User Manual

Important Safety 9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized 20. Please keep the environmental aspects of battery
Instructions or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades disposal in mind. Batteries must be disposed-of at a
with one wider than the other. A grounding-type plug battery collection point.
has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide 21. Use this apparatus in tropical and/or
blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. If the moderate climates.
provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an
electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
10. Protect the power cord from being walked on or Legal Disclaimer
pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, MUSIC Tribe accepts no liability for any loss which
Terminals marked with this symbol carry
and the point where they exit from the apparatus. may be suffered by any person who relies either
electrical current of sufficient magnitude
to constitute risk of electric shock. 11. Use only attachments/accessories specified by wholly or in part upon any description, photograph,
Use only high-quality professional speaker cables with the manufacturer. or statement contained herein. Technical specifications,
¼" TS or twist-locking plugs pre-installed. All other appearances and other information are subject to
12. Use only with the
installation or modification should be performed only change without notice. All trademarks are the property
cart, stand, tripod, bracket,
by qualified personnel. of their respective owners. MIDAS, KLARK TEKNIK,
or table specified by the
LAB GRUPPEN, LAKE, TANNOY, TURBOSOUND,
This symbol, wherever it appears, manufacturer, or sold with
TC ELECTRONIC, TC HELICON, BEHRINGER, BUGERA and
alerts you to the presence of uninsulated the apparatus. When a cart
COOLAUDIO are trademarks or registered trademarks
dangerous voltage inside the is used, use caution when
of MUSIC Tribe Global Brands Ltd. © MUSIC Tribe Global
enclosure - voltage that may be sufficient to constitute a moving the cart/apparatus
Brands Ltd. 2018 All rights reserved.
risk of shock. combination to avoid
injury from tip-over.
This symbol, wherever it appears,
13. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or Limited warranty
alerts you to important operating and
when unused for long periods of time.
maintenance instructions in the For the applicable warranty terms and conditions
accompanying literature. Please read the manual. 14. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. and additional information regarding MUSIC Tribe’s
Servicing is required when the apparatus has been Limited Warranty, please see complete details online at
Caution damaged in any way, such as power supply cord or plug musictri.be/warranty.
To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen
remove the top cover (or the rear section). into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed
No user serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has
qualified personnel. been dropped.
Caution 15. The apparatus shall be connected to a MAINS socket
To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, outlet with a protective earthing connection.
do not expose this appliance to rain and 16. Where the MAINS plug or an appliance coupler is
moisture. The apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping used as the disconnect device, the disconnect device shall
or splashing liquids and no objects filled with liquids, remain readily operable.
such as vases, shall be placed on the apparatus.
17. Correct disposal of this
Caution product: This symbol indicates that
These service instructions are for use this product must not be disposed
by qualified service personnel only. of with household waste,
To reduce the risk of electric shock do not perform any according to the WEEE Directive
servicing other than that contained in the operation (2012/19/EU) and your national
instructions. Repairs have to be performed by qualified law. This product should be taken
service personnel. to a collection center licensed for the recycling of waste
electrical and electronic equipment (EEE). The
1. Read these instructions.
mishandling of this type of waste could have a possible
2. Keep these instructions. negative impact on the environment and human health
3. Heed all warnings. due to potentially hazardous substances that are generally
4. Follow all instructions. associated with EEE. At the same time, your cooperation
in the correct disposal of this product will contribute to
5. Do not use this apparatus near water.
the efficient use of natural resources. For more
6. Clean only with dry cloth. information about where you can take your waste
7. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in equipment for recycling, please contact your local city
accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. office, or your household waste collection service.
8. Do not install near any heat sources such as 18. Do not install in a confined space, such as a book
radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus case or similar unit.
(including amplifiers) that produce heat. 19. Do not place naked flame sources, such as lighted
candles, on the apparatus.
4 CLARITY M User Manual

1. Introduction 3. Hook-up
The Clarity M provides a comprehensive set of precision tools essential to the
success of any audio producer. Ideally suited to stereo and 5.1 mixing, mastering
and post-production, Clarity M’s 7" high-resolution LCD display provides a wealth
of monitoring information at-a-glance via a single screen. Metering options
include the legendary LM6 Loudness Radar Meter, a state-of-the-art true peak Plug-in metering - connecting to a computer
meter, vector scope meter, downmix compliance, stereo/surround correlation
meters and an RTA (Real Time Analyzer).
Source inputs come in a vast array of options including: USB for hassle-free VST*,
Audio Units* and AAX* plug-in metering, 6 channels of unbalanced AES3 digital
audio on 75 Ohm BNC connectors for broadcast-grade 5.1 metering, and stereo
optical for maximum flexibility.
Continue through this manual to learn about the functionality and operation of
the Clarity M.

2. Mounting
The Clarity M includes a built-in stand that can be installed during use and
then reverted back to its storage/travel position. Follow these steps to
mount the stand:
• Remove the 2 hex screws that hold the stand flat against the back of the
unit. The screws are designed to be operated with a 2.5 mm hex key.
• Flip the stand around so that it sticks outward from the unit. The stand
has rubber pads to prevent it from scratching the surface where
it is placed.
• Replace the screws into the same holes to secure the stand.

RAM Mount
The Clarity M also has 2 holes that are ready to use with any compatible
mount solution. We recommend RAM mounts (www.rammount.com),
but others are also available. These allow convenient attachment to desks or
walls for easy access and ideal viewing. The M5 screws needed for installation
are not included, and vary in length depending on the mounting solution you
purchase. Follow the directions for your mounting solution to install.
5 CLARITY M User Manual

Hookup for external mixing desk, surround sound

USB connection for firmware updates and

preset exchange

Included cable that goes from SUB-D-15 to 3 AES

unbalanced inputs on BNC-female connectors,
plus a ¼" stereo (2 GPI) and 1⁄8" mono (GPO) connector.
Connect to an external mixing desk with AES
unbalanced outputs on BNC.
6 CLARITY M User Manual

Hookup for audio interface, digital S/PDIF input

USB connection for firmware updates and

preset exchange

Custom SUB-D-15 cable with included

BNC to RCA adapter connects to the
S/PDIF output of an audio interface

Audio interface
7 CLARITY M User Manual

Hookup for audio interface, digital TOS input, GPIO

Audio interface
Optical TOS cable

Indication of peaks
or overloads to
external equipment

USB connection for firmware updates and

preset exchange

2 button footswitch for

Play/Pause and Meter Reset
8 CLARITY M User Manual

4. Controls and Connectors (7) These selection buttons access the corresponding functions listed in the
LCD display. Holding the far right button turns the unit on and off.
(1) Radar loudness meter showing short-term loudness history and
momentary loudness. (8) The current source is displayed on the front page. In plug-in mode, the track
name and number where the plug-in is inserted will be indicated here.
(2) Detailed statistics overview for all key loudness measuring parameters.
The specific placement of parameters can be customized in the Edit menu (9) High-accuracy real time analyzer with 1/3 octave resolution and pr.
(see Chapter 7). band zoom.
(3) State-of-the-art true peak meter identifies clipping in DACs, CODECs and (10) The Vector Scope.
downstream filters.
(11) Holes (size M5) for mounting brackets such as RAM-mount (not included).
(4) Mono/Stereo Deviation meter based on TC ELECTRONIC’s industry-standard
(12) Kensington lock.
loudness measurement algorithm.
(13) Power connection.
(5) Left-Right or Left-Right/LS-RS Correlation Meter. This displays the phase
relationship of a stereo signal, where the far right (+1) position indicates (14) Connector for included breakout cable with 6 channels AES inputs
perfect phase, the center (0) position shows the widest acceptable and GPI/GPO.
divergence, and measurements below 0 indicate out-of-phase material.
(15) USB connection for plug-in metering, preset handling (copy, move,
(6) Adjustment knob allows various parameters to be controlled. rename, delete) and firmware updates.
(16) Stereo optical input.

(8) (2) (3)

(1)
(4)
(5) (9)

(6) (7)

(11) (10)

(12)
(13) (16)

(14) (15)
9 CLARITY M User Manual

5. SUB-D Cable (3) (4) (5)

A SUB-D-15 breakout cable is included with the Clarity M for connection to
external digital audio devices, as well as GPIO connection. 3 BNC connectors
accept signals from digital mixing consoles or from an audio interface via
S/PDIF by using the included BNC-to-RCA adapter. See Chapter 13 for pin (2)
assignment details.
To connect to an AES/EBU-based device, a BNC-to-XLR adapter will be necessary.
For surround sound use, 3 adapters will be needed. We recommend the Neutrik
NA2FBNC adapter for this purpose.
(1)
(6)
(7)
(8)

Press the 1st button to start or pause the loudness measurement. True-peak and
correlation will continue to be measured. The 2nd button provides a global reset,
and will reset all values across Clarity M. By default, the rotary knob adjusts the
radar speed, but can be changed to adjust resolution or target loudness in the
System (SYS) menu.
GPIO is connected via a dedicated 1/8" TS output and a stereo 1/4" TRS input. (1) The multicolor graphic shows short-term loudness history (S).
These can be used, for example, to trigger Stop/Play or Measurement RESET The colors (black, blue, dark green, light green, orange) mark the transition
commands remotely. between the circular rings. The short-term loudness values of these rings are
determined in the Edit Menu's Radar Resolution parameter.
The 2nd ring (see callout #4) is always Target Loudness. The distance
between the other rings is determined by the Radar Resolution parameter in
the Edit Menu.
Example:
Radar Resolution is set to 12 dB.
Target Loudness is set to -24 LUFS.
Ring 1 (Outer Ring) is -12 LUFS
Ring 2 (light green to orange) is -24 LUFS
Ring 3 (dark green to light green) is -36 LUFS
Ring 4 (blue to dark green) is -48 LUFS
Ring 5 (black to blue) is -60 LUFS
6. General Operation (2) The outer ring displays momentary loudness (M).
After the Clarity M has been mounted, audio connections have been made, and
The lights on the ring go from blue to green according to the Momentary
power is supplied, press the 6th button to power the unit on.
Range parameter. This parameter relates to the Target Loudness setting.
Note – to turn the unit off, hold the 6th button for 2 seconds, which brings up
If Target Loudness is -24 and Momentary Range is set to -9 LU, the outer ring
the power-off screen. You can either power off completely with the 6th button,
will go from blue to green at -33 LUFS. Since the numbers follow the ring,
reboot with the 5th button, or cancel the request with the 4th button.
this will always happen at the 9 o’clock position.
Main Section The lights go from green to orange according to the Target Loudness.
If Target Loudness is set to -24 LUFS, the ring goes from green to orange at
The main meter graphic on the left side of the screen can be viewed in either
-24 LUFS.
LM6 Loudness Radar, RTA (Real Time Analyzer), or Vector Scope, depending on
your audio environment. The RTA view is ideal for monitoring short-term results (3) True-peak indicator lights during peaks.
across the full frequency spectrum, while Radar view is great for long-term
(4) Target loudness appears at the top of the ring and in the 2nd radar ring
results. The Vector Scope can help identify important stereo balance and phase
(between green and orange measurements).
issues in your mix. Pressing the 3rd button flips between the 3 types of metering.
(5) The Loud indicator lights up when the Loud Alert level is reached. This is set
Radar in the Edit Menu as a distance from the target loudness.
The loudness radar meter is ideal for simultaneously monitoring short-term If target loudness is set to -24 LUFS, and Loud Alert is set to 6 LU, the Loud
loudness (S) history on the scope and momentary loudness (M) on the outer ring. indicator with light when the signal reaches -18 LUFS or louder. The Loud
The momentary loudness of your signal is based on a sliding 400 ms window, Alert setting is also indicated in the outer ring by red numbers.
which makes it a valuable aid in setting initial levels when you start a new mix.
(6) Loudness unit selection (LU, LUFS or LKFS).
The short-term loudness overview is especially important to keep an eye on
when mixing material on the fly, as it responds quickly when you adjust your mix, (7) Time since reset.
making it a helpful indicator of where your loudness is in relation to the
(8) Default logo, which can be changed (see page 14).
target value.
10 CLARITY M User Manual

RTA Loudness Descriptors Section

With its 1/3 octave resolution, the high-accuracy Real Time Analyzer (RTA)
provides a solid overview of the spectral distribution of your mix. The RTA's
individual band zoom lets you pinpoint exact frequencies, even outside your
hearing range, allowing problematic frequencies to be identified and
adjusted as necessary.

Regardless of the Main Section view on the left side, the screen will show
various levels and metering feedback on the right-hand side of the screen.
This information can be edited on a preset basis using the 6th button (Edit).
See the 'Editing Presets' section for more details.
Depending on the incoming audio, either a stereo meter or 5.1 surround
Press the 1st button to automatically set the scale top values of the level scale
meter will appear. The stereo meter shows the left and right levels as well as
(dB) of the RTA view according to the current audio source. Alternatively,
dedicated peak indicators for each channel. In 5.1 mode, separate meters for
both scale range and scale top values can be set automatically (see Chapter 7,
left, right, center, LFE (low frequency effects), left surround and right surround
callout 12). Setting the scale automatically will give you the best visual feedback
are displayed. Below the meters are indicators for deviation and correlation. The
and ensure that certain frequencies aren't rising beyond view. Note that this is
arrangement, appearance and function of this section can also be customized in
only effective while audio is being played.
the Edit menu.
The 2nd button provides a global measurement reset, and will reset all measured
values across Clarity M. The rotary knob can select a specific frequency for Loudness Descriptors
detailed information.
The loudness descriptors allow a quick statistical overview of mix details,
ensuring compliance with international loudness standards. The customizable
Vector Scope
readout gives you key parameters such as Program Loudness, True-Peak Max
Rather than plotting audio signal information over time, the Vector Scope and the ever-important PLR (Peak-to-Loudness Ratio). However, you can
measures the difference between the left and right channels and plots them on choose exactly which parameters appear and in which order (see Chapter 7:
an XY axis. Editing Presets).

Up to 6 descriptors can be displayed in vertical fashion – program loudness,

Identical stereo channels (mono) will appear as a straight line, and any stereo true-peak max, loudness max, loudness range, peak to loudness, and sliding
separation will visible as a deviation from this line. 10 second window. Some of these can be hidden in the preset edit menu.
The rotary knob sets the input scaling from 0 to -24 dB, and fast or slow auto Program Loudness – The overall loudness of your entire program or track.
scaling is available.
True-Peak Max – The maximum true-peak measurement throughout
your material.
11 CLARITY M User Manual

Loudness Max – The maximum short-term loudness measurement throughout

your material.
Loudness Range – Your overall program material range from the softest point
to the loudest.
Peak to Loudness – Indicates the 'squash' factor/ratio of your overall material.
Sliding 10 sec – The maximum loudness measurement within
a 10 second window.

Balance-O-Meter A center-balanced mono signal with no width will appear as a single line.
This innovative new meter allows quick visual feedback of the left-right and
Source Section
mid-side balances of your mix. It can be activated by entering the Edit menu
and pressing the Layout button, then using the arrow buttons to select a location
where you want the Balance-O-Meter to appear. Turn the rotary wheel
(Adjust) to select this meter. Note that it will take up 2 slots in the Loudness
Descriptors list.
Above the descriptors is a display for the current audio source. A square box in
front of the source name will indicate the status of the connection. Red means no
connection (No Digital Lock), and green indicates successful connection
(Digital Lock).

Digital Inputs
When you use digital inputs, AES or Optical, the type of connection is displayed.
Options are AES 1, 2, 3, 1-3 (5.1 surround), and Optical.

Plug-in Mode
When using the plug-in as input (USB Mode set to Plug-in), the source section can
display the name and number of the track or bus where the plug-in is inserted in
the DAW.

To change the source, access the System (SYS) menu. Beware that changing the
source causes the meters to reset automatically.
The top of the triangle will point toward the top/center of the semi circle when a
perfect left-right balance is achieved. The width is indicated by how broad the True-Peak Meter
base of the triangle is.
Based on TC Electronic's highly-acclaimed true-peak technology, the True-Peak
Meter identifies potential clipping in codecs and digital-to-analog converters and
helps you avoid unwanted distortion.
The True-Peak Meter can alternatively be set to occupy the full screen height
by accessing the Edit menu and pressing the Layout button (see Chapter 7).
There are many PPM standard meter layouts available.

A wide, center-balanced mix will appear as a symmetrical triangle.

The top point will tilt either direction as the channels become less balanced, and
the base will appear narrower to indicate less width.
12 CLARITY M User Manual

Because loudness measuring is based on subjective perception, program 7. Editing Presets

material can overload if normalized using traditional techniques like quasi-peak
Pressing the 6th encoder brings up the preset Edit menu. The list is divided into
or sample-peak. For this reason, normalization has become a part of many
a meter-specific portion that will correspond to the current meter view (Radar/
broadcast standards that require a true-peak meter. A true-peak meter looks
RTA/V-scope), as well as a list of general parameters that are visible regardless of
at the actual samples as well as inter sample peaks, unveiling peaks that would
the meter selection.
otherwise cause distortion.
The Edit menu also allows the arrangement of descriptors and true-peak meter to
The meters will appear as stereo or 5.1 true-peak depending on the input
be customized, including the Balance-O-Meter.
selection. Several options are available to customize the function and appearance
of the meter. See Chapter 7 for details. Edit - Radar

Channel Measures

1. Adjusts the speed of the radar from 1 minute to 24 hours.

2. Adjusts the radar resolution (distance between each circle in the radar)
This section has 2 horizontal bar graphs that appear in the lower right corner of from 3 to 12 dB.
the screen. The upper graph shows the downmix deviation meter, and the lower
3. Adjusts the target loudness from -36 to -6 LUFS or LKFS, depending on the
shows correlation.
Loudness Unit setting (see #19).
These meters can also be moved to the loudness descriptors column by accessing
4. Sets the level at which the loud alert engages, or turns this function off.
the Edit menu and pressing the Layout button (see Chapter 7).
The triggering of the LOUD alert depends on this setting in combination with
Stereo mixes typically have a very strong mono component. Clarity M simulates the Target Loudness. If Target Loudness is set to -24 LUFS and this parameter
mono downmix (from stereo to mono) as a sum of L and R. Therefore, the mono is set to 6 LU, the LOUD alert will be triggered when the sound reaches
downmix deviation of such mixes tend to be around +3 dB. Being close to +3 dB -18 LUFS.
is therefore not considered a problem at all.
5. Sets the "zoom" scale on the momentary ring on the radar by setting the
Many users will find that the deviation meter is most useful in surround distance between Target Loudness and the highest value to be displayed on
applications, while the correlation meter is more useful when working with the Momentary ring. Toggles between +9 LU and +18 LU. If Target Loudness
stereo material. is set to -24 LUFS and Momentary Range is set to +18 LU, the highest value
(3 o’clock position on the ring) shown on the momentary ring is 6 LUFS.
Deviation
Edit - RTA
Downmix Deviation shows you how the source performs when downmixed.
This is essential in ensuring your surround mix also sounds good when played
back through stereo speakers. Internally, a behind-the-scenes downmix
is prepared and a comparison between the loudness of your source to the
downmixed version is displayed in the graph. In Stereo mode, we compare the
stereo source to mono (Mono Deviation). In 5.1 mode, we compare the 5.1 source
to stereo (Stereo Deviation).
In the Preset Edit menu, select either Short-term or Program to determine the
span (time) used to determine the deviation figure.

Correlation
6. Selects the channels displayed in the RTA. Options are L, R, L+R for stereo
In Stereo mode, the Correlation meter compares the left and right channels with mode, plus L+R+C, C, Ls, Rs, Ls+Rs, LFE, and ALL for surround mode.
a single bar graph. In 5.1 mode, it compares left/right as well as left surround/
7. Selects between 10-band or 31-band RTA resolution.
right surround with 2 bar graphs.
8. Adjusts the RTA response time:
Phase issues can result in audible loss of low frequencies, unintended alterations
to a mix, among many other problems. Readings toward the positive end of the Slow - shows a 1 second response, providing a more stabilized and averaged
meter indicate proper phase alignment (indicated in blue), and phase problems response for use with highly dynamic audio.
are shown in orange to the left of the meter.
Fast - 125 ms response for monitoring fairly constant audio.
Impulse - asymmetrical averaging, responding very quickly (35 ms) to increasing
audio, and a slow decay of 1.5 seconds for decreasing audio.
9. Adjusts how long the small peak indicator dashes for each band hold
their position.
10. Determines the level range of the RTA (Y-Axis), adjustable from 10 to 60 dB.
This can set automatically by pressing the AUTO button, depending on the
Auto Scale setting (see item #12).
13 CLARITY M User Manual

11. Determines the top level shown on the RTA (Y-Axis). This will be set 19. Sets which loudness unit Clarity M uses. In Europe, this would normally be
automatically by pressing the AUTO button. set to LUFS, while in the US, LKFS is the most common unit. LKFS and LUFS
give you absolute Loudness value, while “LU” is used by most territories to
12. Determines whether the AUTO button sets the Range and Top parameters,
describe relative loudness values (relative to Target Loudness).
or only the Top.
20. Surround Downmix coefficients used for the Deviation and
Edit - Vector Scope
Correlation meters.
21. Selects between raw summing level (sum) or compensated level (-3 dB).
Sum is intended for specific broadcast situations where, for example, a mono
signal is presented in both left and right channels.
22. Sets the Loudness metric used for the Deviation meter. If Short-term (S)
is selected, the Deviation meter shows deviation “live” while playing. If
Program (I) is selected, the Deviation meter shows deviation since last reset.
13. Determines which signals are analyzed by the Vector Scope. L/R, Ls/Rs,
or 5.1 > L vs R Downmix are the available options. 23. Adjusts the peak alert level (causes the PEAK indicator on the Radar page to
light up) from -12 to 0 dBTP, or turns this function off. Peak alert values differ
14. Sets the response rate of the Vector Scope.
between the available Peak Meter Scales and refer to the standards.
15. Sets the scale from 0 to -24 dB, and fast or slow auto scaling is available. This
24. Adjusts the long the PEAK indicator lights after the threshold is reached.
is adjustable with the rotary knob even when the Edit menu is not visible.
25. Selects the type of Peak Meter:
16. Selects the color of the graphic response.
True-peak Meter, 60/30/20 dB
Edit - General
Digital PPM, IEC 60268
DIN, IEC Type I
Nordic, IEC Type I
BBC, IEC Type IIa
EBU, IEC Type IIb
26. Selects between EBU (-18 dBFS) or SMPTE (-20 dBFS) standard. The PPM
Alignment Level parameter defines the dBu/dBFS relation according to the
standards. The IEC Type I and II standard scales use EBU (-18 dBFS) while
Digital PPM, IEC 60268 uses SMPTE (-20 dBFS). This parameter is irrelevant
for Peak Meter Scale set to True-peak meter 60, 30 or 20 dB.
Edit - Layout
The specific arrangement of loudness descriptors and true-peak meter can be
17. Selects which loudness descriptor appear in the main screen center
customized in the Edit menu.
column list. Selecting Custom allows the list to be tailored as desired.
When the screen is rearranged using the Edit - Layout function, the Custom
selection is automatically chosen.
1 2 3 4 5 6

Normal Program True-Peak Normal Normal -- Sliding 10

Loudness Max sec

Full List Program True-Peak Loudness Loudness Peak to Sliding 10

Loudness Max Max Range Loudness sec

Basic Program True-Peak Loudness -- -- --

Loudness Max Max
After accessing the Edit menu, press the 2nd button to bring up the Layout
customization controls. Pressing the up and down arrows moves the gray
Live Sliding 10 -- -- -- Program Loudness
highlight bar to the 6 descriptor slots and the true-peak meter. After selecting
Production sec Loudness Range
the desired slot, turn the rotary wheel (Adjust) to select the descriptor that will
appear in that slot. Note that if the Balance-O-Meter is selected, it will occupy
Single Sliding 10 -- -- -- -- --
2 slots. Some items can appear twice in the list, while others, such as the
Sliding sec
Correlation Meter, can only appear once.
Single Program -- -- -- -- -- The true-peak meter can be extended to occupy the full height of the screen,
Program Loudness allowing greater detail to be viewed. This view causes the Deviation and
Correlation meters to disappear, but they can be manually assigned to one of the
6 descriptor slots.
18. Sets the metric used to determine the Loudness Max value in the
Loudness Descriptors section. Choose between Momentary (m)
or Short-term (s) Loudness.
14 CLARITY M User Manual

8. Library Likewise, files can be deleted by right clicking and selecting “delete”.

Factory presets 1-5, which normally cannot be altered from Clarity M itself, can
be edited, moved or deleted when connected to a computer.

Note – if the factory presets are accidentally deleted, they can be

downloaded from the product page on tcelectronic.com. The factory preset
collection is regularly updated, so it is always a good idea to check out
tcelectronic.com/p/P0C7T/Downloads for updated presets.

Adding Folders

While connected to a computer, navigate to the Presets folder where you will see
a list of the existing folders (Default, Film, Music, etc.)
Presets are composed of parameters found on the Edit page. Both RTA and Radar
parameters are stored in a preset. Press the 4th button to access the Library
menu. Scroll through the available folders with the rotary knob to select the most
appropriate category.

Saving a Preset
The first 5 presets in each folder are locked and cannot be overwritten. To save a
new preset, select a slot with the arrow buttons and then press the 3rd button
to store. Confirm the save with the 5th button, or cancel with the 4th button. If
connected to a computer, eject the Clarity M before saving. Once confirmed, a
new name such as Auto #06 will appear in that slot. Preset names can be changed
by connecting to a computer and accessing the Presets folder. On the Radar page,
an unedited preset will appear as Preset: Name. If changes are made in the Edit
Menu, this text will read Edited: Name.

Loading Presets
To load a new preset, navigate to the folder where the preset is stored using
the rotary knob, then use the arrow buttons to select the preset. Press the 2nd
button (Recall) to automatically load the settings stored in that preset. The Radar Simply create a new folder and give it a name, and this will appear in Clarity M.
page will confirm that the new preset has been loaded.
Logo
Accessing Folders and Preset Management
A custom logo can be loaded into Clarity M, appearing on the Radar screen in the
Saved presets can be renamed by connecting to a computer and accessing the bottom right corner. To do this:
Presets folder. Only FAT16 characters are accepted. In order for the files to be
- Place a .png image file in the Logo folder while connected to a computer
viewed on a computer, the USB Mode must be set to Disk Drive in the System
(SYS) menu. A new hard drive will appear called “Clarity M”, and within this you - The .png file can have any name. If more .png files are placed in the logo folder,
will find folders for Firmware, Logo, Presets, Compliance, and if any screenshots the top one alphabetically will be chosen.
have been taken, a dedicated folder will appear for those files.
- If you are placing a logo for the first time, you can toggle RTA/Radar to load the
logo on the radar page.
Preset names have the following structure:
- In case you need to replace the logo, you'll need to reboot the unit.
##_NAME
Requirements for the logo:
## indicates 2 digits, such as 06 for preset #6, and an underscore must be placed
- .png with or without transparency
between the number and name with no spaces. The actual name, such as MY
PRESET, can have a space in the middle, but not after the name. - Native resolution is 164x35
- If the image is larger than this resolution, it will be reduced while keeping the
Presets can also be dragged from one folder to another if you want to change the
aspect ratio. It will always be aligned at the bottom right.
location, just as you would change the location on your local hard drive.
15 CLARITY M User Manual

Screenshots 5. Select the function of GPI 1 and 2. Each can trigger pause or reset commands
from a remote device.
Press buttons 1 and 3 simultaneously to create a screenshot. A prompt will allow
you to cancel or confirm the screenshot. If you are connected to a computer, eject 6. Select the function of the GPO. This can send either the Peak, Loud, or 'Peak or
Clarity M before confirming. The image will appear in the Screenshots folder Loud' indications to an external device. See Chapter 6 - Radar section for details.
when connected to a computer.
7. Adjust the LCD brightness.
8. Adjust the LCD contract.
9. System 9. Scroll through a list of system information.
Press the 5th button to access the System menu. This allows several global
10. V iew the relevant FCC and CE compliance information by scrolling with
adjustments and preferences to be set.
the rotary knob.

10. Plug-in Metering

Download the Clarity M plug-in installer from
tcelectronic.com/p/P0C7T/Downloads.
Installation on a Mac
Open the zip folder and double click the installer icon.

1. When the Clarity M is connected to a computer via USB, it can operate in two
modes (USB Modes):
Disk Drive Mode
Use this setting to:
Proceed through the prompts, accept the license agreement and
- Organize presets: Rename, copy, delete or move begin installation.
- Add your company's logo to the front screen of Clarity M
- Transfer screenshots from Clarity M to your computer’s hard drive
- Update firmware

Plug-in Mode
Use Plug-in Mode if you want to use the Clarity M plug-in as a sound source for
the Clarity M meter.
When switching from Disk Drive mode to Plug-in Mode, Clarity M will no longer
be a USB drive, and to prevent data loss you will be prompted to use the eject
feature of your computer to eject the Clarity M USB Drive from
your computer.
2. Select the input source. When using digital inputs, AES or optical, the options
are AES 1, 2, 3, 1-3 (5.1 surround), and optical. When USB Mode is set to
Plug-in, the input will automatically be changed to Plug-in. Note that
Installation on PC
changing the input causes the meters to reset.
Open the zip folder and double click the executable file.
3. In case you work in surround, this parameter determines in which order the
channels are displayed. This parameter has no effect on the routing of the
channels; the audio channel routing of Clarity M is fixed to the ITU routing
matrix (L-R-C-LFE-LS-RS). It affects only the order the channels are displayed.
The options are:
Film: L-C-R-LS-RS-LFE
ITU: L-R-C-LFE-LS-RS
4. Select the function of the rotary knob when using the radar meter.
16 CLARITY M User Manual

Accept the license agreement and click 'Next'. Verify the install locations, then click 'Install'.

Select which VST and/or AAX components you want to install. Only select the 64 Click “Finish” when the installation is complete.
bit versions if you run a 64 bit system. Pro Tools uses AAX and most other DAW
programs use VST.

Select the install location for each of the plug-ins, and choose the
start menu folder.
17 CLARITY M User Manual

Plug-in Operation Connection

Connect the Clarity M to your computer with the included USB cable. On the Connection status is indicated on the right side of the plug-in window. Successful
Clarity M unit, press the 5th button to access the System (SYS) menu, then make connection is indicated with a green circle and “Connected to Clarity M” text.
sure that the USB Mode is set to Plug-in. When you switch from Disk Drive to
There are 2 conditions that will result in a “Not connected” status. If another
Plug-in Mode, a prompt will appear to advise that you eject the Clarity M from
instance of the plug-in already exists on another track, a yellow circle will appear
your PC. The prompt on Clarity M will only occur the first time after Clarity M has
and the text box will notify you where the plug-in is currently active. Click the
been switched on.
“Take Over” button to connect the hardware unit to the new plug-in location.
The yellow circle may also appear while the connection is being made between
the Clarity M unit and the plug-in, accompanied by “Connecting...” text.
All other connection problems are indicated by a red circle. This could be happen
if the USB cable is disconnected, the Clarity M unit is powered off, USB Mode is set
to Disk Drive, or other issues.
Most DAWs offer the ability to move or drag plug-ins from one track/bus to
another, and Clarity M supports this as well.
Most DAWs automatically offer an on/off switch for plug-ins, accessible inside
the plug-in window and/or the track itself. Muting the plug-in will stop the data
stream, but will not shut down the connection.

Controls

Open your DAW and insert the plug-in on the track or bus of your choice. Keep in
mind where it falls in relation to other plug-ins that might affect the metering.
The exact process varies depending on your software.

Click the Play/Pause icon to manually start and stop the metering. This button
overrules the 'Follow Transport' function. Click RESET to perform a manual reset
of the meter.
The “Follow Transport” option automatically starts the measurement when the
DAW is in Play mode, and stops it when the DAW stops.
“Reset on Play” automatically resets the meters when the Play icon is pressed,
or when the DAW starts to play in “Follow Transport” mode. Note that the Reset
parameter can also be automated using the DAW's automation feature.
This process will vary depending on your software.
A track information section displays the track number, name, and channel
configuration. Some DAW programs can automatically supply this information
to the plug-in. In cases where this is not supported, the track name and number
Once the plug-in is inserted in the signal chain in the desired location, can be entered manually. The number and name are stored within the project,
you can begin metering on the Clarity M hardware unit. allowing them to be recalled when the project is opened again.
The track configuration mode will also be listed in this section (mono, stereo, 5.1):
18 CLARITY M User Manual

Take Over 11. Firmware Updates

We may periodically update or improve the functionality in the Clarity M.
Go to tcelectronic.com/p/P0C7T/Downloads to check for the latest firmware.
You can check the current firmware on your device by accessing the
System menu.
Download the firmware file to your PC. Connect the Clarity M to your PC with
the included USB cable and turn the unit on. Make sure that the USB Mode is set
to Disk Drive in the System (SYS) menu. The unit should appear as a connected
device similar to a hard drive.

Take over on focus - When this is selected, a newly-created instance of the

plug-in within a DAW project will automatically be connected to the hardware
unit. Otherwise, an instance of the plug-in that was already active will take
priority and remain connected.
Take over on insert - When selected, this allows any instance of the plug-in that is
currently in focus to be automatically connected to the hardware unit.

Sample Rate
The Clarity M supports 44.1, 48, 88.2 and 96 kHz sample rate, both with the
digital inputs as well as plug-in metering. However, when monitoring surround
sound material with the physical inputs, sample rates are limited to 44.1
and 48 kHz.

Offline Plug-in Mode

By importing your track into the DAW of your choice, you can get a quick overview
of the levels without letting the entire track play in real time.

Navigate to the firmware folder and drag the new firmware file into the folder.
The Clarity M should automatically detect the new file.

Offline bouncing/rendering/processing is different with each DAW. Pro Tools

has a dedicated Audio Suite menu, and if you use Logic Pro X, Selection-Based
Processing can be used. With other DAWs, the Clarity M plug-in will need to be
inserted on a track and then that track can be bounced. Consult the manual of
your DAW for further instructions on how to make offline processing in that DAW. Eject the Clarity M from your computer first, then either press cancel to abort the
update, or press reboot or off to apply. When you turn the unit on again it will be
When Clarity M goes into offline mode, a pre-set fixed screen layout will be
running the new firmware.
displayed. Only metering types that are relevant for offline mode will be shown,
so no real time meters will appear. The offline mode screen layout can not be
altered by the user.
Once the offline measuring has finished, the result is displayed on the screen.
To reset and exit offline mode, press Reset. Upon exiting offline mode, the screen
layout will revert back to the configuration prior to entering offline mode.
19 CLARITY M User Manual

12. Specifications 13. DB15 Cable Pin Assignments

Pin
Connections Signal Name Included SUB-D-15 Breakout Cable
Assignment
Digital Audio Inputs Input 1 – BNC (AES3id, S/PDIF) Input 1 – AES3id, S/PDIF BNC Input 1 4
Input 2 – BNC (AES3id, S/PDIF) Ground 11
Input 3 – BNC (AES3id, S/PDIF) Input 2 – AES3id, S/PDIF BNC Input 2 5
Input 4 - TOSLINK (EIAJ optical)
Ground 12
GPIO 2 external switch inputs, 1 relay output Input 3 – AES3id, S/PDIF BNC Input 3 6
(100 mA max, optically isolated)
Ground 13
1/8" mono female (GPO)
¼" stereo female (2x GPI) GPI 1 - external switch input ¼" TRS female GPI 1 (1/4" Jack Tip) 2
GPI 2 - external switch input GPI 2 (1/4" Jack Ring) 3
USB USB 2.0 (Micro type B)
Ground (1/4" Jack Sleeve) 9

Display and Controls GPO - (normally open relay) 1⁄8" TS female GPO (1/8" Jack Tip) 7
GPO (1/8" Jack Sleeve) 14
User controls Rotary encoder, 6 selection buttons
Power Input +12 V DC none 8
Display 7" TFT color 800 x 480 Power Input Ground none 15

Sample Rate

Standalone mode Stereo: 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96 kHz

Surround: 44.1, 48 kHz
Plug-in Stereo: 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96 kHz
Surround: 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96 kHz

Power

Power consumption 12 V DC, 0.5 A

Physical

Dimensions 140 x 182 x 38 mm (5.5 x 7.2 x 1.5")

Weight 1.2 kg (2.6 lbs)

Accessories

Included accessories AC adapter

DB15 cable assembly
BNC female to RCA male adapter
USB cable type A male to micro B male,
1 m long

Compliance

Compliance with all worldwide standards

ITU BS.1770-4, ATSC A/85, EBU R128,
TR-B32 and OP-59