Setting Levels - Peavey S 4 Operating Manual

SETTING LEVELS

To get proper performance (low noise and distortion) from the S-4
throughout the chain must be properly adjusted. There are two basic parts to this process: setting the S-4 operating
levels and the operating levels of the mix console or sound system. The S-4 channel gain controls should be adjusted
so that the output meter reads 0 during normal use with the channel and master controls set at 0 (maximum). The
back panel output level control and the mix console or sound system input controls are then adjusted for proper level
in the room.
N O T E ! An assistant will be required for most of the following adjustments. It will be assumed that whenever a microphone is
tested, the assistant is speaking into the microphone at a level typical of actual use.
Preparation
For all applications, except when used as an Automix
Connecting the microphones to the S-4 inputs.
Set all channel gains to minimum.
Set channel mix level to 0 (maximum).
Set the Mid Morph
Set the low-cut filter to 75 Hz.
Set the master level to 0 (maximum).
Set the rear panel output level to –30 dB (minimum).
Mute all inputs except one that will be used for the initial setup.
With the assistant speaking at the un-muted microphone, increase the S-4 preamp gain until the output meter reaches
0. The S-4 is now adjusted for proper level on the first channel and can be used for next step.
Now the output of the S-4 must be calibrated to the sound system equipment. Use the procedure below that fits your
application.
Main sound system mixer
A. If you have not done so already, connect the S-4 output to the main sound system input. The preferred
connection is to use the XLR balanced output.
B. Increase the back panel output level control until either the sound level in the room is at moderate-loud level
or ringing is heard on the end of words. Adjust until ringing is not audible. (A sound contractor may wish to
set the back panel level control to 0 and use the sound system level controls to make this adjustment.)
C. Proceed to "Completing the Setup" (below).
Sound system submixer
A. If you have not done so already, connect the S-4 output to an input on your mix console. You might want to
consider using an input channel near the master controls where it will be easy to find if needed. The preferred
connection is to use the XLR balanced output, but an unbalanced 1/4" connection to the channel line input
can be used.
B. Set the console channel gain control to minimum and the channel fader to 0.
C. Increase the S-4 back panel output level control until either the sound level in the room is at a moderate-loud
level or ringing is heard on the end of words. Reduce the level until ringing is not audible. If you are connected
to a console line input and have turned the S-4 output level all the way up but have not reached the proper
level, then set the S-4 output level at 0 and increase the console's channel gain to reach the proper level.
D. Proceed to "Completing the Setup" (below).
™ EQ to 0.
™ mixer and your sound system, the gain controls
™ controller using the console direct outputs, start by:
13