AtlasIED Atmosphere™ AZM4

Features
Rear Panel
Front Panel
Signal Chain
Additional Features

Features

Overview: The AtlasIED AZM4 is a 6 input / 4 output audio processor that's part of the AtlasIED Atmosphere family of products. Each input channel features a full suite of DSP and dynamics options including Gates, De-Essers, Compressors, EQ, and Auto-Gain. Each of the output channels can be configured as 4 separate Zones and include 6-Band EQ, Automatic Noise Compensation, Limiter, along with speaker presets based on AtlasIED model speakers. Other features include 2 rear-panel RJ-45 ports that let you add up to 16 (total) AtlasIED plug-and-play Wall-Plate Accessories (sold separately) include Input and Source/Volume controllers for each Zone. A built-in web-based user interface lets you easily configure the AZM4 from a computer connected through an existing network. Built-in Wi-Fi provides easy access and control from a connected smartphone, tablet, or laptop. The AZM4 can also be used with an existing Wi-Fi network.

Rear Panel

Inputs: Four balanced inputs are provided on two 6-pin Phoenix (Euroblock) connectors, each accepting mic- or line-level signals. Two sets of stereo RCA jacks are provided for music playback from a CD, computer, or media device. Input signals on the RCAs are summed to mono. Each Input can be assigned to any/all of the Output Zones.

Outputs: Four outputs, on two 6-pin Phoenix connectors, provide balanced line-level signals for passing on to an amplifier or powered speakers.

GPIO (General Purpose Input/Output Ports): A 12-pin Phoenix connector contains the input and output connections for optional contact switches (sold separately).

• Common "C" (x3): Provides the common ground points for switches.
• Control Inputs "1-6" (x6): Can be configured in the User Interface for CC (Contact Closure), Normally Open, or 1.5-12VDC trigger. These can be used to Recall Scenes and triggering Message Playback.
• High Priority Input "F" (x1): This Input can be used to mute all zones, set all zones to a selected source, lock & alert any connected accessory controllers, play a message once or on a repeated basis.
•  Outputs (GPO-1 & GPO-2): Two individually assignable Voltage Trigger Outputs that can be configured for: Logic H, Logic L, Toggle, or Pulse - with Pulse Time adjustable in 50ms increments. These can be used to trigger functions such as changing Scenes or Message playback.

Network: An RJ-45 Ethernet port provides the connection to a LAN (Local Area Network) for configuration and control from a connected computer.

Accessory Ports: Two RJ-45 (non-Ethernet) bus-ports can be used for connecting optional Atmosphere Plug-and-Play accessories (sold separately). Up to 8 Control Accessories can be daisy-chained on each Accessory Port (16 total). If using an Audio Wall-Plate Accessory, only one per port can be connected along with up to 7 Control Accessories. Connections can be made using CAT5e or CAT6 cable (sold separately). The maximum distance from the last Accessory to the AZM4 is 1000'.

• Audio Wall-Plate Inputs: Three optional audio input accessories are available:
  • A-XLR: Balanced XLR input for mic- or line-level signals.
  • A-RCA: Features stereo RCA jacks along with a 3.5mm TRS input for music playback. Input signals are summed.
  • A-BT: Provides a connection to a Bluetooth-enabled playback device.
• Control Accessories:
  • C-V: Volume control.
  • C-ZSV: Volume control with Source Select, Scene Recall, and message playback.
  • X-ANS: Ambient noise sensor - provides ambient noise levels to the Ambient Noise Compensation algorithm in the AZM8. This feature allows the AZM8 to monitor the ambient noise level in a given area and compensate for it by raising or lowering the audio output volume accordingly.
  • X-ZPS: The X-ZPS Zone Paging Station features a 16" gooseneck microphone and a 4.3" touchscreen, letting you select paging zones, as well as controlling the Volume, Source Selection, Message Recall, and more for each selected zone.
  • GEM: A wall-mountable frame/placard that can hold a QR code printed from the user interface. User-control features for each output Zone can configured in the setup menu and printed out as a QR code that can be placed in a Zone, allowing anyone to scan the code with their smartphone and receive the assigned controls, without the need for downloading an app. One GEM QR code placard is included.
    • Note: The GEM does not require a connection to the AZM4.

Front Panel

Display & Control: A front-panel multi-colored display is provided for quick visual verification of functions and selections when a computer, tablet, or smartphone isn't available for connection. A corresponding rotary/push-button control lets you navigate and select from the following menu options:

• Zone Control: Change Volume, Sources, and Mute functions in any Zone. Also lets you recall Scenes. This can only be accessed after being configured in the User Interface setup menu.
• Network: Lets you see the network status and settings; switch between Access Point, Wi-Fi, and Ethernet; change the connection to any available network based on signal strength; and enter as SSID.
• I/O Signals: Select Inputs or Outputs individually and see signal activity.
• Accessories: See any Accessories connected to the Accessory ports. Also lets you see the Menu for an Accessory as well as display its location.
• Faults: Displays any "live" faults in the system.
• Sensor Data: Displays temperature data from Inputs & Outputs, the CPU, and the power supply (PSU).
• System Clock: Provides Time and Date.
• Firmware Info: Displays current firmware version and last update.
• Lock: Lets you Lock/Unlock the display.

Signal Chain

Input Processing: Each Input Channel can have the following options applied, including any optional Wall-Plate Accessory input (A-XLR, A-RCA, A-BT). Settings for Wall-Plate Accessories will vary based on their type of input.

• Preamp Gain: Provides 0dB to +60dB of gain for either Mic- or Line-level sources.
• Phantom Power: Lets you apply +48V of phantom power to an input when using a condenser microphone.
• HPF: An 80Hz high-pass filter (-12dB/oct) can be used to roll-off the low-end frequencies of the incoming signal.
• Gate (Noise Gate): Reduces noise on an input when no signal is present. This is handy for keeping an open mic "quiet" when no one is speaking into it. Parameters include: Threshold, Attack Time, Hold Time, Release Time, and Range which lets you adjust the amount of gain reduction.
• De-Esser: Helps eliminate high-frequency sibilance ("S" sounds) in speech.
  • Frequency: Lets you set the frequency where the sibilance is more pronounced.
  • Sensitivity: Sets the level of the target frequency for the De-Esser to engage.
  • Amount: Sets the amount of gain reduction applied.
  • Hold Time: The amount of time the De-Esser is held after the signal level is reduced.
  • Release Time: Sets the amount of time for the De-Esser to fully disengage after the hold time has expired.
• Compressor: Automatically reduces peaks in volume for a smoother, less fluctuating signal level. Settings include: Threshold, Ratio, Knee, Attack Time, Hold Time, Release Time, and Makeup Gain.
• Parametric EQ: A 4-band parametric equalizer lets you assign each band to a frequency between 20Hz and 20kHz, along with setting the "Q" or width of each band. Other adjustments include the Gain for each band, High- and Low-Shelving, and a Notch Filter. Band 1 includes a High-Pass Filter, with 6-, 12-, and 24dB slopes available. Band 4 features a Low-Pass Filter with same available cutoff slopes.
• Auto-Gain: This setting tries to maintain a consistent output level regardless of the variations in the input signal level. This is helpful when multiple people will be using the same microphone, all having differing vocal levels. This feature is also helpful in leveling out inconsistent background music tracks.
  • Threshold: The signal level where the Auto-Gain feature will become active.
  • Target Level: This is the signal level the Auto-Gain will attempt to maintain.
  • Target Window: The output level where the Auto-Gain doesn't modify the signal, helping avoid the function being over-active.
  • Max Boost/Cut: Lets you dictate how much gain this feature will boost or cut to maintain the required output level.
  • Speed: Determines how fast the Auto-Gain feature makes its adjustments. A higher Speed setting is ideal for vocals, while a slower Speed is best for background music.
• Virtual Mix: Up to four Inputs can be combined into a sub-mix, letting you use a single fader to adjust the level of all simultaneously. Up to 4 Virtual Mixes can be saved.
• Signal Generator: A built-in signal generator lets you setup, test, and troubleshoot zones with a consistent audio source. Three signal types are available - Sine Wave, which lets you choose the frequency of the signal, White Noise, and Pink Noise.

Output Processing: Each of the 4 Zone Outputs provides additional processing and configuration.

• Name: Output Zones can be named for easy identification.
• Input Source: Determines which Input(s) will be routed to that Output.
• Output Level: A virtual fader lets you adjust the output level for that zone. The fader also acts as a signal meter, displaying Blue when a signal is present, and Red if the signal starts to clip.
• Mute: Each Output can be individually muted.
• Priority Ducker: Lets you select and fine-tune which input signal(s) will override or "duck" the selected output when active.
• Message Player: Audio files can be uploaded and saved in the AZM4's message storage library where they can be selected by the system to play a message, tone, bell, or chime through any of the Output Zones. Messages can be saved to the AZM4 as .WAV files (mono or stereo) up to 48kHz at any bit rate. Messages can be up to 15 minutes long.
• Speaker Presets: Provides pre-configured settings for a variety of Atlas speaker models, with the EQ tuned for that specific speaker type.
• Delay: The currently selected output signal can be delayed, if necessary, to sync with other speakers. Delay time can be from 0 to 500ms.
• Parametric EQ: A 6-band parametric equalizer lets you assign each band to a frequency between 20Hz and 20kHz, along with setting the "Q" or width of each band. Other adjustments include the Gain for each band, High- and Low-Shelving, and a Notch Filter. Band 1 includes a High-Pass Filter, with 6-, 12-, and 24dB slopes available. Band 6 features a Low-Pass Filter with same available cutoff slopes.
• Ambient Noise Compensation: This feature works in conjunction with the X-ANS Ambient Noise Sensor Accessory (sold separately). The system monitors the ambient noise level of a zone and can raise or lower the audio level accordingly. Ambient Noise Sensors only provide data back to the AZM4, so it can't be "listened" to, avoiding any privacy concerns. ANC parameters include:
  • Slope: Determines how much gain will be applied to the output signal based on the change in noise level.
  • Attack: Amount of gain increase in dB or Seconds.
  • Release: Amount of gain decrease in dB or Seconds.
  • Sensitivity: Sets the level at which the ANC will start working.
• Limiter: The Output Limiter is used for taming transient peaks, keeping the output signal below a specified level. This can help prevent damage to speakers in the event of a sudden loud signal, like someone speaking too closely into a microphone or a mic is accidentally dropped. Adjustable parameters include: Threshold, Knee, Attack Time, Hold Time, and Release Time.

Additional Features

Scenes: Groups of settings can be named and saved as a Scene that can quickly and easily be recalled. Scenes can manually be selected from the configuration dashboard, or scheduled for automatic switching. GPO-1 & 2 (General Purpose Outputs) can be assigned to a Scene, allowing automatic trigger activation of an external function, such as activating a motorized screen in a certain zone. Scenes can be named for easy identification of which zone or area they pertain to.

QR Codes: The AZM4 lets you assign specific parameters that can be controlled by any user in a zone, such as changing sources, volume, music playback, etc. Once configured, QR codes can be created, printed, and mounted to an optional placard in that zone, allowing users to simply scan the QR code with their device and operate the pre-defined functions, without having to download any apps.

Scheduler: Specific event actions can be scheduled to take place automatically in the Scheduler. Similar to a meeting calendar, an Event Time/Date/Start-Stop can be entered in the configuration dashboard, allowing zone configuration to switch automatically at the specified date and time. The Event log will show scheduled events that have taken place or are currently taking place, to confirm the operation.