LEEDH Processing
Volume control is the most common signal processing operation in audio.
Whether digital or analogue, it is a process that aims to change the amplitude of the signal without further impact.
In fact, this modification inevitably has collateral effects...
Volume control occurs many times in the audio processing chain, primarily during the recording, mixing and mastering stages. However, its impact is also significant during playback.
Any volume control affects the dynamic range of the signal and thus leads to a loss of information. No matter how small, this form of alteration is felt in the nuances and depth of the musical message.
In the digital domain, conventional systems bring a particular distortion, linked to quantization noise, which is associated with a certain coldness and hardness of listening. For this reason, many audiophiles prefer to use an analogue control, which however has disadvantages of a different nature.
LEEDH Processing ✕ Wattson Audio
The patented LEEDH Processing volume control concept, which has been acclaimed by many experts, is based on a clever mathematical calculation that minimises quantization errors and guarantees the integrity of the signal. With this process, the amplitude of the digital signal can be modified without any deterioration effect and without coloring the sound. In many ways, this system combines the advantages of analogue and digital control.
Wattson Audio products with LEEDH Processing allow the digital-to-analog converter to be connected directly to a power amplifier or active loudspeakers, without the need for an analogue preamplifier to control the volume. This topology offers the advantage of an extremely short signal path, ensuring dynamic and accurate sound.
Need more information?
In May 2020, as part of an AES convention, SUPSI's Institute of Information Systems published an analysis that will tell you more about the technical aspects of this process.
You can also find all the information on the official website dedicated to the LEEDH Processing.
