Moni Cough is a single channel desktop commentator unit intended for 'foolproof' operation. Two versions are available offering the choice of a snap action fader or large pushbutton to interrupt the audio feed temporarily. All other controls are positioned along the front, back and base of the unit so they can be preset by engineers during setup, without the risk of being inadvertantly readjusted by an inexperienced operator.

The high quality microphone amplifier features 30dB of trim and switched 48V phantom powering. High headroom circuitry ensures trouble-free remote operation. A signal present LED indicates correct operation along with sidetone monitoring via a preset control to the internal headphone amplifier. This output also mixes in feeds from an external line source and reverse talkback. Secure 6.5mm and 3mm headphone sockets are provided - or the unit may be supplied with a multipin XLR connector to accept most of the popular microphone/ headset combinations. Follow this link for full specifications.

The front panel features two buttons - one for talkback (see below) the other for muting. An oversized, momentary push button triggers a silent, soft mute on the main output. The bright red "ON" indicator LED indicates the current status. By setting switches on the base of the unit, three different modes may be configured:
Push off - traditional cough-box use, signal mutes while puhbutton is pressed down.
Push on - normally muted, use where ambient noise is high such as a comms terminal unit for broadcasting outside sports events. Button turns microphone on.
Alternate - repeated pushes move from lock on to lock off. A further failsafe, preset option selects microphone on or off after initial power-up.
The key design brief for this product was 'easy to use' functionality so these 'instant off' options have been provided to accommodate any announcer's personal preferences.

The second front panel button is a talkback key, illuminated when on. For normal operation, when pressed, it mutes the main audio output and feeds the microphone signal to the talkback output. Alternatively, if the bottom panel 'bypass' switch is used, a lazy talkback signal is always applied to the buffered talkback output.
Recognising that Moni Cough will be used for broadcast remote situations, direct communications compatibility has also been provided for both Clear-Com and RTS intercom systems, emulating typical terminal functionality. No extra interfaces, it hooks up directly!

Firstly, Moni Cough is the ideal freestanding single commentary unit which can easily be linked into any remote hookup. But in addition, its complement of discrete, individually circuit blocks, adds up to a highly versatile audio tool for all remote applications.