The Trident Hi-Lo 500 is a revolutionary adaptive analogue Hi-Cut/Lo-Cut filtering module for the 500 Series format, offering dynamic frequency tracking, adjustable resonance, selectable slopes, linked stereo tracking, and compatibility with advanced configurations to deliver unmatched control and signal enhancement.

Hi-Cut Filter

The Hi-Cut filter in the Trident Hi-Lo 500 is a versatile low-pass filter that provides unity gain within the passband and a selectable roll-off slope of either 12dB or 24dB per octave outside it. Users can adjust the cutoff frequency from 75Hz to 24kHz. Activating the resonance control introduces a resonant peak at the cutoff frequency, adjustable up to +12dB, which enhances filtering precision and creates distinct audio effects. At maximum resonance, the filter approaches self-oscillation without crossing into instability. The Hi-Cut Enable switch allows precise monitoring of individual filter bands, while a red Peak LED alerts users to signal levels exceeding +16dBu, ensuring adequate headroom for dynamic control.

Hi-Cut Dynamic Tracking

The Hi-Cut filter incorporates dynamic tracking to adaptively reduce noise based on the high-frequency content of the signal. The filter’s cutoff frequency dynamically follows the program material by enabling the Track Signal function, reducing unwanted high-frequency noise in real time. This functionality leverages psychoacoustic masking, making noise imperceptible by blending it with louder signals. Adjusting the frequency control allows fine-tuning of the filter's response for optimal noise suppression while retaining high-frequency detail. Higher resonance settings can make the filter’s movements audible, enabling unique sound-design possibilities.

Frequency-Domain Fades with Hi-Cut

The Hi-Cut filter’s extensive sweep range from subsonic to the full audible spectrum allows innovative applications like frequency-domain fading. Users can creatively fade tracks in and out by altering the frequency range, offering a unique alternative to conventional amplitude fades.

Lo-Cut Filter

The Lo-Cut filter mirrors the flexibility of the Hi-Cut with a high-pass design offering unity gain in the passband and selectable roll-off slopes of 12dB or 24dB per octave. Its cutoff frequency is adjustable from 15Hz to 16kHz, and activating the resonance control introduces a resonant peak at the cutoff frequency, adjustable up to +12dB. This feature enhances low-end precision and psychoacoustically emphasises the bass response. The Low-Cut Enable switch provides isolated control over the filter, while the Peak LED ensures users monitor signals effectively, avoiding distortion.

Lo-Cut Dynamic Tracking

The Lo-Cut filter’s dynamic tracking excels in reducing low-frequency rumble or hum. Enabling the Track Signal function allows the filter’s cutoff frequency to adaptively follow the program material's low-frequency content. Users can fine-tune the response to eliminate noise without significantly affecting low-end presence. The combination of steep slopes, resonance control, and dynamic tracking supports exceptional noise reduction and creative sound shaping.

Frequency-Domain Fades with Lo-Cut

The Lo-Cut filter’s sweeping range from ultrasonic to audible frequencies provides similar opportunities for frequency-domain fading, offering unique ways to sculpt audio beyond traditional amplitude-based techniques.

Peak Indicators for Monitoring

Both filter sections feature independent Peak LED indicators. The Hi-Cut Peak LED monitors signals at the Hi-Cut stage, while the Lo-Cut Peak LED oversees signals through both stages, ensuring precise clip monitoring. The output supports high headroom, driving up to +27.5dBu into a 600-ohm load, with Peak LEDs triggering at +16dBu to allow ample headroom.

Dynamic Linking for Stereo Applications

Pairing two Trident Hi-Lo modules enables linked stereo tracking for precise control over left and right signals. Activating the stereo link switches and synchronising the frequency controls allows the modules to dynamically track stereo signals. With racks supporting stereo pairing, such as the Trident Deca-Dent, users can unlink the modules for independent mono operation without needing hardware adjustments.

Integration with the API Radial Workhorse

An onboard jumper allows integration with the API Radial Workhorse, enabling the Hi-Lo to feed its output to the mix bus. This functionality, combined with stereo linking, enhances versatility for complex signal routing and stereo applications.

Expandable Slope Options

Connecting multiple Hi-Lo modules in series offers increased roll-off slopes of up to 48dB per octave by combining the slope settings of individual modules. Adding additional units increases the steepness incrementally, providing unparalleled flexibility for advanced filtering needs.

The Trident Hi-Lo 500 redefines adaptive audio filtering with its dynamic tracking, precise controls, stereo linking, and integration options, setting a new standard in audio processing for professionals.