1: Introduction; About The X2 - Alesis X2 Reference Manual

About the X2

The X2 is an extremely flexible, 24-channel, 8-group output, in-line monitor
professional mixing console. The monitor path of each channel has its own 45mm
linear fader, automated mute, and access to EQ and Aux sends, so you can mix or
monitor one input while the main path mixes another. This flexible design allows
full mix control of 48 sources, plus 16 aux returns, for a total of 64 sources at
mixdown. For this reason, the X2 is perfectly suited for professional project studios
with a large number of MIDI sequencer-controlled sources that are synchronized
with 24 tracks of ADAT.
Each channel features a high-quality 4-band equalizer with two midrange bands
that are fully parametric, not just sweep EQ. The midrange Q (bandwidth) can be
set as narrow as 1/6th of an octave, or as wide as several octaves, for boosting or
cutting any frequency range desired. The two shelving bands may be split from the
main channel path and switched into the monitor path. An EQ IN/OUT switch
permits the entire EQ circuit to be bypassed when desired, maintaining the
minimum signal path. A switchable high-pass filter removes low frequency rumble
and noise. The EQ section uses film capacitors in a gyrator filter design, with plenty
of headroom available so that boosting a band doesn't cause distortion.
The X2 uses fully balanced +4 dBu inputs and outputs on 1/4" jacks, plus three 56-
®
pin ELCO
direct to the ELCO connector on each ADAT. The X2 may also be interfaced with -
10 dBV level unbalanced equipment. A DIRECT switch on each channel connects
the Direct Out (instead of the corresponding Group Out) to the channel's Tape Out
jack, so that simultaneous 24-track recording is possible without repatching.
All 24 channels have a high-quality, low noise balanced microphone preamp with
individually switchable 48 V phantom power for condenser microphones. Each
input channel is individually modular, using glass epoxy circuit boards. The 24/8/2
meter bridge is integral, not an optional add-on. It provides peak metering on each
channel, group and the stereo master outputs.
Effects and headphone mixes are handled by 8 Aux sends. Aux 1–2 is a pre-fader,
pre-mute, stereo send that can be used to provide a cue mix from either the main or
monitor path; Auxes 3–8 are post-fader intended for effects sends. Eight Stereo Aux
Returns are provided, each with its own 2-band EQ, Stereo Separation control, Solo
switch, and automated Mute. Returns may be routed to the stereo mix, the groups,
and the cue mix, so that effects can be added to the final mix, printed to multitrack,
monitored on headphones, or any combination desired. The X2 provides insert
points on each channel, each group, and the stereo master for use with compressors
and graphic equalizers.
Alesis Dynamic Mute Automation™ is built-in, providing control of 72 mute points
X2 Reference Manual
C
HAPTER
I
NTRODUCTION
multipin connectors for quick, reliable +4 dBu balanced connection
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Introduction
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