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TouchControl 5

Metering meets Monitor Control

Software release 2.0 is available for download now.


Meet TouchControl 5, our Dante®- or RAVENNA®-based (now available) immersive monitor controller with metering.

Continuing our legacy of excellence in broadcast-grade monitor controllers, the TouchControl 5 redefines what’s possible by seamlessly uniting advanced metering with powerful monitor control - giving you the best of both worlds in a compact format with a small footprint.

It comes fully loaded with RTW’s trusted, loudness-compliant metering tools and an industry-leading monitor control engine that supports a wide range of speaker formats, speaker calibration, bass management, downmixing, and multiple input configurations.

Up Front

On the front of TouchControl 5, the integrated microphone feeds the SPL measurement, and it can also be used for talkback. The 5” touchscreen is user configurable, as is the pushable rotary knob.

Key Features

  • Immersive table-top monitor controller and meter with 5” touch display and 32 Dante® or RAVENNA® channels
  • Support for stereo- surround and -immersive speaker formats including 5.1 and 7.1.4
  • Support of array speaker layouts according to Dolby® guidelines
  • Comprehensive monitor control feature set with speaker calibration, SPL measurement, bass management and up to 4 sources/destinations
  • RTW precision metering with customizable bargraphs and support for international loudness standards
  • Audio Vectorscope, Real Time Analyzer, Loudness Chart
  • Toolbox with independently routable leveling and talkback
  • Customizable view pages
  • Built-in microphone preamp with +48 V phantom power
  • Built-in calibrated microphone for talkback and SPL measurement
  • Powerful Headphone Output: 1/4 inch Headphone output with the option of monitoring a user-defined downmix
  • Analog Speaker Output: 3.5mm speaker output with the option of monitoring a user defined downmix
  • Easy Setup with Web-based Interface
  • Power over Ethernet (PoE – IEEE 802.3af compliant)
  • Sample rate up to 96 kHz
  • Assignable knob press action: DIM, Mute, Recall of Calibrated Level
  • Lockable Operation Mode: Fool-proof setup with access only to relevant controls. Prevents unintentional operation during showtime 

Stereo, Surround, Immersive

With support for up to 32 AoIP channels in and out, TouchControl 5 can handle channel configurations from stereo to 22.2.
Among the many supported formats you will find 5.1 and 7.1 surround as well as 7.1.4 and 9.1.6 immersive.

Monitor Control. Tried. Tested. Approved.

Tried, tested, and approved by many broadcast engineers around the world, you find the very same monitor control engine that you might know from our legacy surround monitor controllers.

The list is long, but let’s emphasize downmix, DSP-powered speaker calibration (using the internal microphone OR manual set), SPL readout, 4 input sources, speaker set selection (up to 4), solo, cut, swap, phase, mono, dim, mute and test tone generator.

The source compare feature lets you toggle between sources for easy comparison and lets you set individual delays for each of the sources.

On the output side, you can set up four speaker sets and easily switch between them or you can listen to your work with your favorite headphones using the headphones output.

   The Creating a 7.1.4 Monitoring Preset video on our YouTube channel shows how to set up the Monitoring functions.
 

Controls and meters on your monitor page

The SPL meter shows the measured sound pressure level in your room, and you can show SPL either as a bar graph or as a number – or both.

The downmix instrument outputs your surround or immersive mix in stereo and mono.
The downmixed signal can be monitored on speakers or phones or sent to any destination in your audio network.


Each speaker can be muted or soloed, and you can invert polarity.
The talkback feature lets you talk to speakers or any destination in your Dante network.

LF Boost lets you boost your LFE channels with 10 dB and Surr. Att. attenuates the surround channels with 3 dB.

   The Creating a 7.1.4 Monitoring Preset video on our YouTube channel shows how to set up the Monitoring functions.
 

 

Speaker Level Calibration


 

The speakers in your setup can be calibrated with regards to level, delay and EQ. The support for measurement microphones, the built-in test tone generator and the live-input SPL meter is the optimal tool combination for calibrating your speaker levels to ensure they are perfectly aligned.

 

 

Loudspeaker DSP Section


 

Each speaker has a DSP section for ultimate control. You can set individual delay, gain and phase, and a 8-band EQ is available for each speaker in your setup. The Dolby Atmos® Music Curve can also be added to the EQ.

Calibrated speaker levels can easily be recalled by the press of a knob.

 

Bass Management

The bass management system allows for up to two LFE channels with adjustable crossover frequencies to be tailored to your specific needs. Full-range and compact speakers can be precisely matched and integrated within the same system. Additionally, high-pass filters for bass-managed speakers, all-pass filters for others, and an extra SUB output channel for formats without an LFE track are all supported.

 

Dedicated Bass Management Outputs

Traditionally, in a 7.1.4 setup, the LFE channel handles both the dedicated LFE signal and the redirected low-frequency content from bass management. With dedicated BM outputs, you can route bass-managed low frequencies to separate subwoofers, allowing the LFE sub to handle only the LFE signal – a major step forward in flexibility and precision.

Beyond the dedicated BM outputs, the enhanced Bass Management system offers even greater flexibility to meet the demands of any setup. A new expert mode empowers advanced users to fully bypass the Bass Management filters for complete manual control. Plus, with precise signal routing, you can now fine-tune exactly how much signal is sent from each individual speaker to the BM outputs - putting ultimate customization at your fingertips.


 

 

 

Dolby Atmos® Music Curve


 

TouchControl 5 supports Dolby Atmos® Music Curve, which can be enabled with just one click.

 

 

RTW Metering inside


 

As you know, metering plays a significant role in any RTW device, and so it does in the TouchControl 5.

The PPM metering engine is taken from our high-end TouchMonitor meters, and you get a wealth of ways to tailor your own metering experience, including scales, color settings and more.

True Peak metering is of course part of the metering story, as well as VU and ‘British PPM’.
 

   The Adding Metering to the 7.1.4 Monitoring Preset video on our YouTube channel shows how to add Metering functions to a Monitoring preset for example.
 

 

PPM

So beside the level control fader instrument, TouchControl 5 also comes with a comprehensive equipped PPM meter for reliable measurement of any network channel.
TouchControl 5 supports all the different scale types need for a professional production environment.
 

TP20: +3..-30 dB
Dig60: 0..-60 dB
Dig40: +20..-40 dB
Dig20: 0..-20 dB
Dig0: 18..0 dB
Dig18: +18..-18 dB
ARD9: +9..-60 dB
DIN5, +5..-50 dB

DIN10: +10..-50 dB
Nordic: +12..-42 dB
BRIIa: 7..1
BRIIb: -12..+12
BRIIa ext: 7..1
BRIIb ext: -12..+12 dB
ZOOM1: +1..-1 dB
ZOOM10: +10..-10 dB

The switchable peak hold indicator, peak memory and over indicator complete the functionality.
Between the bargraphs of a Stereo-PPM, there is a correlation indicator that helps identifying stereo correlation problems.

   The The PPM Instrument video on our YouTube channel explains the setting options of the PPM instrument.
 

Moving Coil

The Moving Coil instrument is available in 2-channel stereo mode.

It provides several scales and setting options. The PPM (British) or VU displays can be shown as single or combined, vertical or horizontal instruments.

Loudness scales or a combined PPM and Loudness display (BBC mode) are also available.

   The The Moving Coil Instrument video on our YouTube channel describes the variety of needle instruments and shows some examples.
 

Stereo Correlator

The Stereo Correlator enables you to analyze and display the phase relationship between the two channels of a stereo signal, offering valuable insights into its stereo compatibility resp. playback compatibility on mono systems.

A high positive correlation indicates good phase alignment, contributing to a clear and cohesive stereo image, while a negative or low correlation may signal potential phase issues, such as phase cancellation or poor stereo imaging.

 

Audio Vectorscope

The 2-channel Audio Vectorscope provides a real-time visualization of the phase relationship between two channels of a stereo pair using a Lissajous display on a coordinate plane tilted 45°. This tool is instrumental in understanding and diagnosing the stereo image and phase interactions within an audio signal.

Audio engineers use the Vectorscope extensively in tasks like mixing, mastering, and broadcast production to ensure proper stereo imaging, phase alignment, and compatibility with mono playback systems.
 

   The The Vectorscope video on our YouTube channel shows how to work with the Audio Vectorscope.
 


 

 

The Real Time Analyzer


 

Visualize energy distribution across the frequency spectrum with the RTW Real Time Analyzer.

  • Compatible with All Speaker Formats
  • Offers 1/3, 1/6, or 1/12 Octave Resolution
  • Supports Single, Group, or Block Layouts
  • Enhanced Color Scheme for Improved Visualization
  • Low Frequency Zoom: 5 Hz to 5 kHz
  • Filter Options: Linear, A-weighted, or C-weighted
  • Utilizes IIR Filter Technology
  • High Band Display for Frequencies Above 20 kHz

 

Built-in Microphone for SPL or Talkback

TouchControl 5 features a built-in microphone that can be used for calibrated monitoring.

Alternatively, it can be used for intercom talkback and can address any node in the audio network .

 

Loudness, SPL and LRA


 

For many years, RTW has taken part of forming the international loudness standards in ITU and EBU. Loudness is key to us, so in TouchControl 5 we have implemented the full loudness engine known from our high end broadcast meters.
TouchControl 5 supports all international loudness standards such as EBU R128, ITU-R BS.1770-4/1771-1, ATSC A/85, ARIB, OP-59, AGCOM, CALM, LEQ(M), TASA and SAWA.

On top of the ITU/EBU loudness standards, you’ll find support for Dialog Gated Loudness Measurement, enabling compliance with dialog-based specifications, which are aligned with Netflix delivery standards.
 

   The The Vectorscope video on our YouTube channel explains the settings to meet the loudness standards.
 

 

Loudness Sum

With the Loudness Sum instrument you get a bargraph display of the summed Loudness values M, S, and/or I of a Loudness measurement acc. to EBU R128, ITU BS.1770-4/1771-1, ARIB, ATSC A/85, OP-59, AGCOM, CALM Act, LEQ(M), TASA, SAWA, or specified by customer.
An SPL meter is also included.

Loudness Num

With the Loudness Num instrument you can monitor some or all relevant values of a loudness measurement on a numerical display:

  • Momentary (M)
  • Short-term (S)
  • Integrated (I)
  • Loudness Range (LRA)
  • True-peak Max (TPmax)
  • Momentary Max (Mmax)
  • Short-term Max (Smax)
  • Integrated Duration (Itime)
  • Short-term, Dialog Gated (SD)
  • Integrated, Dialog Gated (ID)
  • Loudness Range, Dialog Gated (LRAD)
  • Dialog Percentage (D%)

LRA (Loudness Range)

The LRA (Loudness Range) instrument displays a graphical representation of the loudness variances within short time periods.
These are measured against the Loudness Range (LRA) descriptor specified in EBU R 128.

It is used to show whether a program has a continuously constant loudness or a high variation between low and high level components.
It allows for making assumptions on whether the program has seen or requires dynamic processing with regard to the intended distribution path.

Dialog Gated Loudness Measurement

The TouchControl 5 supports dialog-gated measurements, ensuring compliance with dialog-based specifications that for example adhere to Netflix delivery standards.

The Loudness Number instrument provides metrics such as ID (Dialog-Based Integrated), SD (Dialog-Based Short-Time), and D (Dialog Content Percentage).

The LRA instrument displays the Dialog-Gated Loudness Range, while the Dialog Detector identifies when dialog is present. This detector can be resized, ranging from a small overlay to covering the entire screen.

Users can specify which channels contain dialog, typically assigning it to the Left, Center, and Right channels.

 

Loudness Chart


 

The loudness chart provides a detailed visual representation of audio loudness levels over time, offering a clear and comprehensive overview of your audio’s loudness dynamics. It is a crucial tool for analyzing and maintaining consistent loudness in various audio production contexts, including broadcasting, streaming, and post-production.
 

   The The Loudness Chart video on our YouTube channel explains the special features of the Loudness Chart instrument.
 

 

 

 

Intercom Functionality


 
 

For facilities with multiple TouchControl 5 units installed, Version 2 introduces intercom capability via the new Input Instrument.

This feature allows you to mix an external audio source into your current monitoring signal. The Input Instrument also provides input trim control and can be muted when needed - making it ideal for streamlined, in-room communication between workstations.

 

Network Level Control with Fader Instrument


 

The Fader instrument allows level control of any channel in your network, and you can freely configure each fader to control the number of channels you wish.
 More faders can be combined, so you can control multiple groups of channels, and if you do so, levels are controlled relatively, using TouchControl 5's knob.

TouchControl 5's touch screen can of course also be used to control each fader, and you can create up to 4 faders each controlling single channels, stereo-, surround- or immersive formats.

Toolbox instruments also include a Talkback feature that lets you talk to any audio channel in you network. Talkback sources include the built-in mic, the external XLR input or any audio network channels.

 

Faders can be based on any of the support channel formats. Here you see a 7.1.4 and a stereo.
 

Examples of different fader groups: mono, stereo or 4-channel. These can be expanded to 32 channels.
 

 

Design Your Own View Pages


 

TouchControl 5 lets you design your own view pages.

For each instrument you can decide on size, ratio and placement, and several instruments can be rotated to fit your needs.

Buttons can be placed anywhere on the screen, those that are placed in the swipeable side bar are available across view pages.
 

   The The 2025 New View Editor video on our YouTube channel shows how to create views for TouchControl 5.
 

 

Extensive Routing


 

The Routing page lets you route your audio channels to and from TouchControl 5.

With support for 32 network channels plus the physical I/Os, there is a lot of possibilities. For instance you could use the same channels for monitor control and metering, or split them so metering is independent from monitor control.

 

Built for Audio over IP networks

TouchControl 5 is built for Dante® or RAVENNA® Audio over IP networks.

It supports 32 channels in and out, up to 96 kHz.

Plugged In

TouchControl 5 is born and raised as a network device. Therefore, it does not need many connections to the outside world, which is how we have been able to build a device with a very small footprint.
The network port not only provides the audio channels, 32 in and 32 out, but also includes power.  On top of that, you’ll also find a pristine 24 bit/96 kHz IO section.

 

Two Versions

TouchControl 5 comes in two versions, one for Dante® networks and one for RAVENNA® networks.It supports 32 channels in and out, up to 96 kHz.
 

  • Made for Dante® Audio over IP networks
  • AES 67 (48 kHz only)

Order-no.: 320517ND

  • Made for RAVENNA® Audio over IP networks
  • AES 67
  • SMPTE ST 2110-30 (one port)
  • PTP Slave-only Mode
  • NMOS
  • Supports unicast streams

Order-no.: 320518ND

 

Easy Setup with Web-based Interface

Being a true network device, the setup of TouchControl 5 is done through the network, using a standard web browser.

This is where you make the overall settings, manage presets and more.

You can also control the access to the device, including limiting operation to only certain features, avoiding un-intentional use during showtime.

   The Creating a 7.1.4 Monitoring Preset video on our YouTube channel shows how to set up the Monitoring functions for example.
 

Mounting the TouchControl 5

The TouchControl 5 is designed to be versatile in its mounting options:
 

1.

Direct Desk Placement: The TouchControl 5 fits comfortably in front of you on your desk, providing a straightforward setup.

2.

Mounting with RTW 1166 Metal Mounting Plate:

  • The bottom of the TouchControl 5 features two mounting holes compatible with the RTW 1166 Metal Mounting Plate.
  • This plate has a 3/8” internal thread, allowing you to mount the TouchControl 5 onto a standard microphone stand.

3.

Using a Camera Mount:

  • To mount the TouchControl 5 on a 1/4” camera mount, simply add a 1/4” internal to 3/8” male thread adapter.
  • For example, you can mount the TouchControl 5 on a mini tripod camera stand with a magnetic foot using the RTW 1166 Metal Mounting Plate and a 1/4” to 3/8” thread adapter.

This setup offers flexibility for various environments, whether you need a different viewing angle or prefer to mount it on different stands.


Monitoring Controller in a New Shape

Watch our TouchControl 5 video

 

Built on the Power of RTW Legacy

TouchControl 5 is built on our long and proud history of making high-end monitoring controllers. Many SurroundControl 31900 and 31960’s are still in use at large broadcast stations around the world.

On the outside, you can clearly see the similarities when comparing with the 30050 Remote Control.

On the inside, you will find even more similarities, as the monitoring engine of TouchControl 5 is built on the monitoring engine from 31900.

TouchControl 5 (2024) and Remote Control 30050 (2004)

SurroundControl 31900

Accessories

Ethernet Power Injector

Many ethernet switches provide Power over Ethernet (PoE), so in many cases, an additional power supply (ethernet power injector) is not needed for TouchControl 5.

In cases where you do need it, we offer the Power Injector with mains cable for different regions.

Europe or similar: Order number 14554-EU
US or similar: Order number 14554-US
Australia or similar: Order number 14554-AU
UK or similar: Order number 14554-GB
International (all cables): Order number 14554-IN

1166 - Metal Mounting Plate

Using the mounting plate, TouchControl 5 can be mounted on a mic stand or similar (3/8").

Downloads