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Sonifex Redbox RB-OA3 User Handbook Manual

Mixers & source selectors, microphone amplifiers, stereo to mono converters, general interfaces
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Redbox
User Handbook
Mixers & Source Selectors, Microphone
Amplifiers, Stereo to Mono Converters,
General Interfaces
RB-SS10
10 way stereo analogue source selector/mixer
RB-DSS10
10 way stereo digital source selector
RB-PMX4
10 input, 4 output analogue preset mixer
RB-SSML1
Mic/line source selector with compressor/limiter
RB-MA1
Microphone amplifier, single
RB-MA2
Microphone amplifier, dual
RB-DMA2
Dual digital microphone amplifier
RB-ML2
Microphone limiter, 2 channel
RB-SL2
Twin mono, or stereo limiter
RB-SM1
Stereo to mono converter, single
RB-SM2
Stereo to mono converter, dual
RB-LC3
3 way light/power controller
RB-MM1
Mix minus generator
RB-OA3
3 studio on-air switcher
RB-OA3R
Remote switch panel for RB-OA3
No3

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Summary of Contents for Sonifex Redbox RB-OA3

  • Page 1 Redbox User Handbook Mixers & Source Selectors, Microphone Amplifiers, Stereo to Mono Converters, General Interfaces RB-SS10 10 way stereo analogue source selector/mixer RB-DSS10 10 way stereo digital source selector RB-PMX4 10 input, 4 output analogue preset mixer RB-SSML1 Mic/line source selector with compressor/limiter RB-MA1 Microphone amplifier, single RB-MA2...
  • Page 2 Information in this document is subject to change without notice and does not represent a commitment on the part of Sonifex Ltd. Sonifex Ltd shall not be liable for any loss or damage whatsoever arising form the use of information or any error contained in this manual.

  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    Power Cable and Connection Ordering the Correct Mains Lead Installation Information Atmosphere Electromagnetic Radiation Fitting Redboxes WEEE & RoHS Directives - Sonifex Statement RB-SS10 10 Way Stereo Analogue Source Selector/Mixer Introduction System Block Diagram Front Panel Indicators & Controls Illuminated Push Buttons...
  • Page 4 CO NT ENTS Rear Panel Connections and Operation Outputs 1-4 Front Panel Controls Switch Banks Input Gain Controls Technical Specifications RB-PMX4 RB-SSML1 Mic/Line Source Selector with Compressor Limiter Introduction System Block Diagram Rear Panel Connections Stereo Monitor Inputs Stereo Monitor Pad & Volume Control Mic Input Mic Input Gain Using Phantom Powered Microphones...
  • Page 5 CON T EN TS Mic / Line Inputs Mic Input Gain Using Phantom Powered Microphones Using the LF Filter Mic / Line Outputs Mic / Line Output Gain Level Limiting Mode Select Switch Technical Specifications RB-ML2 RB-SL2 Twin Mono, or Stereo, Limiter Introduction System Block Diagram Rear Panel Connections and Operation...
  • Page 6 CO NT ENTS Setting the Unit’s Identity Using The Mode ID DIP Switches Setting The Boot Up Mode Force Last Used Studio Mode Force Studio 1 Mode Configuring for Operation Single (MASTER) Mode Studio Connections Control Panels Profanity Delay Connector Mix Input LSO Expansion Port Serial Ports...
  • Page 7 FI G U RE S Figures Fig A: Packing List. Fig 4-4: DIP Switch to Control Mic & Meter Features. Fig B: Mains Cable Wire Colours Fig 4-5: RB-SSML1 Front Panel. Fig C: Mains Lead Table. Fig 5-1: RB-MA1 & RB-MA2 Front Panel. 31 Fig D: RB-RK1Small Redbox Front Rack-mount Kit .
  • Page 8 FI GU RE S Figures (continued) Fig 11-2: RB-MM1 System Block Fig 12-15: RB-OA3 Transmission I/O Diagram. Connector Definitions. Fig 11-3: RB-MM1 Rear Panel. Fig 12-16: RB-OA3 Transmission Outputs Connector Details. Fig 12-1: RB-OA3 Front Panel. Fig 12-17: RB-OA3 Studio 1-3 Audio Fig 12-2: RB-OA3 System Block Connector Definitions.
  • Page 9 WARR AN T Y Warranty Warranty and Liability - important the purchaser is advised to read this clause The Company agrees to repair or (at its discretion) replace Goods which are found to be defective (fair wear and tear excepted) and which are returned to the Company within 12 months of the date of despatch provided that each of the following are satisfied: Notification of any defect is given to the Company immediately upon its...

  • Page 10: Warranty

    WAR R A NT Y (ii) For any breach by the Company of any statutory undertaking as to title, quiet possession and freedom from encumbrance. Subject to conditions (a) and (c) from the time of despatch of the Goods from the Company’s premises the Purchaser shall be responsible for any defect in the Goods or loss, damage, nuisance or interference whatsoever consequential economic or otherwise or wastage of material resulting from or caused by or to the Goods.

  • Page 11: Returning The Warranty Card

    In order to register the date of purchase so that we can keep you informed of any design improvements or modifications, it is important to complete the warranty registration document that is enclosed and return it to Sonifex Ltd in the UK, or register online at www.sonifex.co.uk/register For your own records you should write down the serial number (which can be found on the rear of the Redbox).

  • Page 12: Power Cable And Connection

    Fig B: Mains Cable Wire Colours Ordering the Correct Mains Lead When ordering a Redbox from Sonifex, it is helpful if you can specify your required operating voltage and mains lead. After the product code add: UK, for 230V, UK 3 pin to IEC lead...

  • Page 13: Fig D: Rb-Rk1Small Redbox Front Rack-Mount Kit

    S A F E T Y & I N S TA L L AT I O N INFORMATION They can also be rack-mounted, with either the front, or rear of the Redbox positioned at the front of the rack: Front Mounting Redboxes: For rack mounting smaller (28cm) units the optional RB-RK1 (Red) or RB-RK1B (Black) kit can be used (which include 4 off M6 panel fixing screws).

  • Page 14: Weee & Rohs Directives - Sonifex Statement

    It gives a contact for individuals who are unsure about the correct procedure when the product has reached its “end of use”. Sonifex Ltd will be happy to give you information about local organisations that can reprocess the products, or alternatively all products that have reached “end of use” can be returned to Sonifex and will be reprocessed correctly free of charge.

  • Page 15: Rb-Ss10 10 Way Stereo Analogue Source Selector/Mixer

    MIXER & SOURCE SELEC TORS 1 RB-SS10 10 Way Stereo Analogue Source Selector/Mixer Introduction Fig 1-1: RB-SS10 Front Panel. The RB-SS10 10 Way Stereo Analogue Source Selector/Mixer is a 1U rack-mount unit that produces a stereo analogue audio output from 10 selectable stereo analogue sources. There are 10 illuminated front panel push buttons, which select and indicate the current channel selection.

  • Page 16: System Block Diagram

    MIXER & SOURCE SELEC TORS System Block Diagram Push Button Inputs Switches Remote Select/ Remote Switch Inputs Start I/O Audio Inputs Status Outputs Audio Inputs Input Gain Outputs Stage Volume Headphone Outputs Audio Inputs 7-10 Analogue Outputs Switches Fig 1-2: RB-SS10 System Block Diagram. Front Panel Indicators &...

  • Page 17: Front Panel Gain Controls

    MIXER & SOURCE SELEC TORS In mix mode, each button you press will select that source allowing multiple sources to be mixed to a single output. Pressing the button again will switch off a source. There is also a remote input to inhibit the front panel switches. When the front panel inhibit is active, pressing the front panel switches has no effect on the current channel selection.

  • Page 18: Rear Panel Connections And Operation

    MIXER & SOURCE SELEC TORS INPUT 1 button on Alternate mode INPUT 2 button on Latched mode INPUT 3 button on Protected Alternate mode Rear Panel Connections and Operation Master Additional Output Audio Input Remote Select/ Control Connects Switch Inputs Outputs Input 1 Input 2...

  • Page 19: Rb-Ss10 Additional Audio Input Connectors

    MIXER & SOURCE SELEC TORS RB-SS10 Additional Audio Input Connectors There are 2 off 25 way D-type sockets (female) used for the remaining audio inputs. The INPUTS 3 - 6 (upper) connector contains analogue inputs 3-6, and the INPUTS 7 – 10 (lower) connector contains analogue inputs 7-10.

  • Page 20: Rb-Ss10 Remote Start I/O

    MIXER & SOURCE SELEC TORS RB-SS10 Remote Start I/O This 25 way D-type plug (male) connector contains the remote start input connection and the corresponding 10 opto-isolated remote start outputs. This is intended to be used as a method for re-directing a remote start command using a single switch or mixer fader start output, to selected equipment, i.e.

  • Page 21: Remote Select/Switch Inputs

    MIXER & SOURCE SELEC TORS The collector connects to the start pin of the equipment, and the emitter connects to the common pin of the equipment. Start Output Play Collector 1 to 10 Command (Pins 1 to 10) Start Output Command Emitter 1 to 10 Common...

  • Page 22: Status Outputs

    MIXER & SOURCE SELEC TORS All of the active low signals have internal pull-ups. Remote Inputs 1 to 10 Front Panel Inhibit Mix Mode (Pins 1 to 12) Signal Ground (Pins 14 to 24) Fig 1-9: Connection Example. Status Outputs This 25 way D-type socket (female) connector contains the remote status tallies.

  • Page 23: Technical Specifications Rb-Ss10

    MIXER & SOURCE SELEC TORS (Pins 14 to 23) Remote Tally 1 to 10 (Pins 1 to 10) Fig 1-11: Connection Example. Technical Specifications RB-SS10 Audio Specifications Input Impedance: 20kΩ bridging Output Impedance: <50Ω Maximum Input Level: +28dBu Maximum Output Level: +28dBu Frequency Response: 20Hz to 20kHz ±0.1dB (600Ω...
  • Page 24 MIXER & SOURCE SELEC TORS Equipment Type RB-SS10: 10 way stereo analogue source selector/mixer Physical Specifications Dimensions (Raw): 48cm (W) x 10.8cm (D) x 4.2cm (H) (1U) 19” (W) x 4.3” (D) x 1.7” (H) (1U) Dimensions (Boxed): 53cm (W) x 20.5cm (D) x 6cm (H) 21”...

  • Page 25: Rb-Dss10 10 Way Stereo Digital Source Selector

    MIXER & SOURCE SELEC TORS 2 RB-DSS10 10 Way Stereo Digital Source Selector Introduction Fig 2-1: RB-DSS10 Front Panel. The RB-DSS10 10 Way stereo Digital Source Selector is a 1U rack-mount which produces an AES/EBU and S/PDIF level digital audio output from 10 selectable AES/EBU or S/PDIF digital input signals.

  • Page 26: System Block Diagram

    MIXER & SOURCE SELEC TORS System Block Diagram Remote Start I/O Remote Select/ Push Button Switch Inputs Switches Inputs Data Data Status Selector Selector Outputs Volume Control AES/ Receiver Outputs Head- phone Data Output Selector AES/ S/PDIF Transmitter Receiver S/PDIF Output Fig 2-2: RB-DSS10 System Block Diagram.

  • Page 27: Power Indicator

    MIXER & SOURCE SELEC TORS Power Indicator The LED on the front panel is used to indicate that power is present on the unit. However, it also has a secondary role to indicate whether the selected channel is routing the AES/EBU or S/PDIF input: Red indicates AES/EBU input.

  • Page 28: Rear Panel Connections And Operation

    MIXER & SOURCE SELEC TORS buttons will display the current operating mode (as shown below). To change the mode, simply press the input 10 and the buttons will indicate the newly selected mode. Once the required operating mode has been set the unit will restart within five seconds from the last button press.

  • Page 29: Digital Audio Inputs & S/Pdif Output

    MIXER & SOURCE SELEC TORS Digital Audio Inputs & S/PDIF Output This connector contains the other two remaining professional AES/EBU input connections, and the 10 S/PDIF input connections. It also has the S/PDIF digital output. The S/PDIF digital inputs and the output have an impedance of 75Ω. Pin No.

  • Page 30: Remote Start I/O

    MIXER & SOURCE SELEC TORS Remote Start I/O This 25 way D-type plug (male) connector contains the remote start input connection and the corresponding 10 opto-isolated remote start outputs. Pin No. Description Pin 1 Start output 1 collector Pin 2 Start output 2 collector Pin 3 Start output 3 collector...

  • Page 31: Fig 2-7: Connection Example

    MIXER & SOURCE SELEC TORS Start Output Play Collector 1 to 10 Command (Pins 1 to 10) Start Output Command Emitter 1 to 10 Common (Pins 14 to 23) Fig 2-7: Connection Example. Remote Select/Switch Inputs This 25 way D-type socket (female) connector contains the front panel inhibit input connection and the remote switch inputs to control the channel selection.

  • Page 32: Status Outputs

    MIXER & SOURCE SELEC TORS Status Outputs This 25 way D-type socket (female) connector contains the remote status tallies. Pin No. Signal Name Description Pin 1 REMTALLY1 Internal open collector to ground for output 1 Pin 2 REMTALLY2 Internal open collector to ground for output 2 Pin 3 REMTALLY3 Internal open collector to ground for output 3...

  • Page 33: Technical Specifications Rb-Dss10

    MIXER & SOURCE SELEC TORS Technical Specifications RB-DSS10 Audio Specifications Input Impedance: 110Ω ±20% balanced (AES/EBU) Input Impedance: 75Ω ±5% unbalanced (S/PDIF) Output Impedance: 110Ω ±20% balanced (AES/EBU) Output Impedance: 75Ω ±5% unbalanced (S/PDIF) Signal Level: 3V/10V peak to peak min/max (AES/EBU) 0.5V ±20% peak to peak (S/PDIF) Sample Freq Range: 30-100kHz (i.e.
  • Page 34 MIXER & SOURCE SELEC TORS Equipment Type RB-DSS10 10 way stereo digital source selector Physical Specifications Dimensions (Raw): 48cm (W) x 10.8cm (D) x 4.2cm (H) (1U) 19” (W) x 4.3” (D) x 1.7” (H) (1U) Dimensions (Boxed): 53cm (W) x 20.5cm (D) x 6cm (H) 21”...

  • Page 35: Rb-Pmx4 10 Input, 4 Output Analogue Preset Mixer

    MIXER & SOURCE SELEC TORS RB-PMX4 10 Input, 4 Output Analogue Preset Mixer Introduction Fig 3-1: RB-PMX4 Front Panel . The RB-PMX4 is a high performance 10 mono input to 4 mono output preset mixer. Each of the four outputs has a 10 way DIP switch associated with it to select which of the 10 inputs are routed to it.

  • Page 36: System Block Diagram

    MIXER & SOURCE SELEC TORS System Block Diagram Balanced XLR Input 1 Gain Balanced XLR Input 2 Gain Balanced XLR Input 3 Gain Output 1 Output 2 Balanced XLR Switch Bank Switch Bank Input 4 Gain Balanced XLR Balanced XLR Balanced XLR Output 1 Output 2...

  • Page 37: Front Panel Controls

    MIXER & SOURCE SELEC TORS Inputs 1-10 The XLR-3 input sockets can take balanced professional levels, or unbalanced by using the front panel gain controls, and by connecting the non-phase to the signal ground screen. The XLR 3 pin input has the following connections: Pin 1: Screen Pin 2: Phase Pin 3: Non-phase...

  • Page 38: Technical Specifications Rb-Pmx4

    MIXER & SOURCE SELEC TORS Technical Specifications RB-PMX4 Audio Specifications Maximum Input Level: +28dBu Input Impedance: >20kΩ balanced bridging Maximum Output Level: +28dBu Output Impedance: <50Ω Frequency Response: 20Hz to 20kHz ±0.1dBu (600 Ω load, @ 1kHz) Input Gain Range: Adjustable 8dBu loss to 18dBu gain.

  • Page 39: Rb-Ssml1 Mic/Line Source Selector With Compressor Limiter

    MIXER & SOURCE SELEC TORS 4 RB-SSML1 Mic/Line Source Selector with Compressor Limiter Introduction LED Metering Line Threshold Headphone Volume Volume Control Outputs Mic/Line Bypass Compression Headphone Select Switch Switch Control Volume Fig 4-1: RB-SSML1 Front Panel. The RB-SSML1 is a 1U rack-mountable source selector for compressing or limiting an incoming microphone or stereo line signal and mixing this signal with a stereo monitor input, which can then be metered and mixed to two headphone outputs.

  • Page 40: System Block Diagram

    MIXER & SOURCE SELEC TORS The metering is carried out after the compressor/limiter section and consists of two rows of 12 round LEDs showing levels between -17dB and +11dB. An internal jumper allows the metering to follow either the stereo output, or the headphone monitor outputs and a rear panel DIPswitch can disable the peak hold display.

  • Page 41: Stereo Monitor Inputs

    MIXER & SOURCE SELEC TORS Stereo Monitor Inputs The 2 x XLR 3 pin sockets used for the monitor input are electronically balanced. They have the following connections: Pin 1: Screen Pin 2: Phase Pin 3: Non-phase Note: The monitor input can not be mixed to the stereo line output, it is only used for headphone monitoring.

  • Page 42: Using The Lf Filter

    MIXER & SOURCE SELEC TORS Using the LF Filter This switch provides control for a high pass filter on the mic input with low frequency roll off at 125Hz. The roll-off filter is in circuit when the switch is down (towards the arrow). Compression Active on Mic Input Only With this feature enabled, the compressor/limiter will only operate when the microphone input is selected.

  • Page 43: Mic & Line Volume Controls

    MIXER & SOURCE SELEC TORS Mic & Line Volume Controls The front panel MIC VOLUME reduces the volume to –80dB. The line input channel with the LINE VOLUME control fully up, has a gain of +6dB. Mic/Line Select Switch To select between microphone or stereo line inputs, use the Mic/Line select switch; stereo line is in the up position.

  • Page 44: Technical Specifications Rb-Ssml1

    MIXER & SOURCE SELEC TORS Technical Specifications RB-SSML1 Audio Specifications (Bypass Mode) Maximum Input Level: -10dBu (mic), +28dBu (line), electronically balanced Input Impedance: 20kΩ nominal balanced Maximum Output Level: +28dBu Output Impedance: <50Ω Headphone Output Level: Drives 150mW into 32Ω to 600Ω headphones Low Frequency Roll-Off: 125Hz @ 6dB/octave Gain Range (mic):...

  • Page 45: Rb-Ma1 Single & Rb-Ma2 Dual Microphone Amplifiers

    MICROPHONE AMPLIFIERS & LI MI TE R S RB-MA1 Single & RB-MA2 Dual Microphone Amplifiers Introduction Fig 5-1: RB-MA1 & RB-MA2 Front Panel. The RB-MA1 consists of an independent low-noise microphone pre-amplifier for converting microphone level signals to line level, or for driving long lines from microphones to mixing equipment.

  • Page 46: Rear Panel Connections And Operation

    MICROPHONE AMPLIFIERS & LI MI TE RS Rear Panel Connections and Operation Input Gain Phantom power Control Mic Input LF Filter Output Fig 5-3: RB-MA1 Rear Panel. Input Gain Phantom Power Control Switch Mic Input LF Filters Stereo Outputs Fig 5-4: RB-MA2 Rear Panel. Mic Inputs The XLR 3 pin sockets used for the microphone are electronically balanced.

  • Page 47: Using Phantom Powered Microphones

    MICROPHONE AMPLIFIERS & LI MI TE R S On On Channel 1 Low Frequency (LF) Filter Channel 1 Phantom Power Channel 2 Phantom Power (only applies to MA2) Channel 2 Low Frequency Fig 5-5: Switch to Control LF Filter and Phantom Power. Using Phantom Powered Microphones For the input channel there are independent switches to provide phantom power at +48V to the connected microphones.

  • Page 48: Technical Specifications Rb-Ma1 & Rb-Ma2

    MICROPHONE AMPLIFIERS & LI MI TE RS Technical Specifications RB-MA1 & RB-MA2 Audio Specifications Maximum Input Level: -10dBu Maximum Output Level: +28dBu Input Impedance: 20kΩ nominal balanced Output Impedance: <50Ω Low Frequency Roll-Off: 125Hz @ 6dB/octave Gain Range: Adjustable 36dB to 75dB gain E.I.N: 130dB Distortion:...

  • Page 49: Rb-Dma2 Dual Digital Microphone Amplifier

    MICROPHONE AMPLIFIERS & LI MI TE R S RB-DMA2 Dual Digital Microphone Amplifier Introduction Fig 6-1: RB-DMA2 Front Panel. The RB-DMA2 consists of two independent low-noise microphone pre- amplifiers for converting microphone level signals to digital AES/EBU, or S/PDIF, and analogue line level outputs. The RB-DMA2 can be used as a front end for digital mixing desks or routers, which do not have microphone inputs.

  • Page 50: System Block Diagram

    MICROPHONE AMPLIFIERS & LI MI TE RS For the digital output, there is a switch available to define the content of the channel status bits embedded within the digital audio stream. The channel status bits will be forced to Professional Mode for sample rates above 48kHz, as they are not supported by the Consumer Mode.

  • Page 51: Sync & Power Indicator

    MICROPHONE AMPLIFIERS & LI MI TE R S Sync & Power Indicator The LED on the front panel is normally red to indicate that power is present on the unit. However, it also has a secondary role to indicate the status of the digital inputs: Fast flashing between red and amber indicates a loss of digital input signal, or that the unit is being calibrated.

  • Page 52: Rb-Dma2 Inputs

    MICROPHONE AMPLIFIERS & LI MI TE RS RB-DMA2 Inputs Mic Inputs The XLR 3 pin sockets used for the microphone inputs are electronically balanced. They have the following connections: Pin 1: Screen Pin 2: Phase Pin 3: Non-phase AES/EBU Sync Input The digital AES/EBU synchronisation input XLR 3 pin socket has an impedance of 110 Ω...

  • Page 53: Rear Panel Controls

    MICROPHONE AMPLIFIERS & LI MI TE R S Rear Panel Controls Status Select Switches These switches are used to determine the status or content of the digital output signals. The type of information encoded in the channel status bits of a digital audio signal can be professional or consumer and is determined by switch 1.
  • Page 54 MICROPHONE AMPLIFIERS & LI MI TE RS Digital Sync & Output Select Buttons These buttons are used to switch the digital connection between the AES/EBU XLR connector (button out) and the S/PDIF phono connector (button in) independently for the digital sync input and the digital output. Note: There is no switch to select the Word Clock as a sync input.

  • Page 55: Fig 6-7: Rb-Dma2 Frequency And Sync Rotary Switch Selections

    MICROPHONE AMPLIFIERS & LI MI TE R S Frequencies and Sync Modes Rotary Mode Sample Switch Frequency Number (kHz) Master Master 44.1 Master Master Master 88.2 Master Auto Auto 44.1 Auto Auto Auto 88.2 Auto Auto Lock Slave Calibration Fig 6-7: RB-DMA2 Frequency and Sync Rotary Switch Selections. Test/Calibration Mode For optimum performance of the RB-DMA2, the unit should be calibrated when it has been powered up for approximately 10-15 minutes.

  • Page 56: Technical Specifications Rb-Dma2

    MICROPHONE AMPLIFIERS & LI MI TE RS Technical Specifications RB-DMA2 Connections Analogue Mic Inputs: 2 x XLR 3 pin (balanced) Analogue Line Outputs: 2 x XLR 3 pin (balanced) Digital Sync Inputs: 1 x AES/EBU XLR 3 pin female 1 x S/PDIF RCA phono 1 x TTL BNC female (sync) 50 ohm impedance Digital Outputs: 1 x AES/EBU XLR 3 pin plug...
  • Page 57 MICROPHONE AMPLIFIERS & LI MI TE R S Sync Modes: Master, Slave, Auto, Auto-Lock via rotary switch Digital Input Select: AES/EBU or S/PDIF, via push-switch Channel Status Bits: Set to consumer or professional mode via DIP switch Output Routing: Set dual mono output via dipswitch Led Level: Green ind.

  • Page 58: Rb-Ml2 Stereo Microphone & Line Level Limiter

    MICROPHONE AMPLIFIERS & LI MI TE RS 7 RB-ML2 Stereo Microphone & Line Level Limiter Introduction Fig 7-1: RB-ML2 Front Panel. The RB-ML2 is a stereo microphone and line level limiter. The unit is mainly used where assistance with level control is required, for protection of mixer inputs and to prevent distortion.

  • Page 59: System Block Diagram

    MICROPHONE AMPLIFIERS & LI MI TE R S System Block Diagram Gain LF Filter Mic/Line Limiter Output Gain Mic/Line Stage Input 1 Phantom Power (48V) Gain and Limit Line Control Gain LF Filter Mic/Line Gain and Input 2 Limit Control Phantom Power Mic/Line...

  • Page 60: Mic / Line Inputs

    MICROPHONE AMPLIFIERS & LI MI TE RS Mic / Line Inputs The XLR 3 pin sockets used for the mic/line inputs are electronically balanced. They have the following connections: Pin 1: Screen Pin 2: Phase Pin 3: Non-phase Mic Input Gain Recessed pre-set potentiometers allow for adjustment of the gain of the microphone inputs.

  • Page 61: Mic / Line Output Gain

    MICROPHONE AMPLIFIERS & LI MI TE R S Mic / Line Output Gain The output gain is adjustable from -54dB to -24dB when mic is selected and adjustable between -8dB to +22dB for line, with reference to 0dBu line input. The gain is adjusted via two potentiometers on the rear panel of the unit, although it is pre-set in production.

  • Page 62: Technical Specifications Rb-Ml2

    MICROPHONE AMPLIFIERS & LI MI TE RS Technical Specifications RB-ML2 Audio Specifications Maximum Input Level: -6dBu (mic), +28dBu (line), electronically balanced Input Impedance: >20kΩ balanced bridging Input Gain Range: Adjustable +22dB to +67dB gain (mic) Via 2 x pre-set potentiometers (L&R), 0dB gain (line) Maximum Output Level: -18dBu (mic), +28dBu (line), electronically balanced Output Impedance:...
  • Page 63 MICROPHONE AMPLIFIERS & LI MI TE R S Equipment Type RB-ML2: Stereo microphone & line level limiter Physical Specifications Dimensions (Raw): 28cm (W) x 10.8cm (D) x 4.2cm (H) (1U) 11” (W) x 4.3” (D) x 1.7” (H) (1U) Dimensions (Boxed): 36cm (W) x 20.5cm (D) x 6cm (H) 14.2”...

  • Page 64: Rb-Sl2 Twin Mono, Or Stereo, Limiter

    MICROPHONE AMPLIFIERS & LI MI TE RS 8 RB-SL2 Twin Mono, or Stereo, Limiter Introduction Power LED & Limit Indicator Fig 8-1: RB-SL2 Front Panel. The RB-SL2 is a stereo, or twin independent mono, VCA limiter for use in news-rooms and other locations where the correct level into recording equipment is required, but not necessarily under the control of an engineer, for example, for overload protection.

  • Page 65: Rear Panel Connections And Operation

    MICROPHONE AMPLIFIERS & LI MI TE R S Rear Panel Connections and Operation Stereo Outputs Stereo Stereo/Mono Stereo Input Switch Input Fig 8-3: RB-SL2 Rear Panel. Outputs The XLR 3 pin plug connectors are electronically balanced and can be wired unbalanced to accept an output from domestic equipment.

  • Page 66: Technical Specifications Rb-Sl2

    MICROPHONE AMPLIFIERS & LI MI TE RS Technical Specifications RB-SL2 Audio Specifications Maximum Input Level: +28dBu Maximum Output Level: +28dBu Input Impedance: >20kΩ bridging Output Impedance: <50Ω Input Gain: Adjustable -8dBu to +18dBu gain Limit Threshold: Adjustable -8dBu to +28dBu Frequency Response: 20Hz to 20kHz ±0.1dB (600Ω...

  • Page 67: Rb-Sm1 Single & Rb-Sm2 Dual Stereo To Mono Converter

    ST EREO TO M ON O CON VE RT E RS 9 RB-SM1 Single & RB-SM2 Dual Stereo To Mono Converter Introduction Fig 9-1: RB-SM1 & RB-SM2 Front Panel. The RB-SM1 consists of an independent converter that will produce a fully buffered and balanced mono line output from a stereo input.

  • Page 68: Rear Panel Connections And Operation

    STE R E O TO MO NO CONVE RT E R S Rear Panel Connections and Operation Stereo Inputs Output Mono Gain Control Output Fig 9-3: RB-SM1 Rear Panel.. Stereo Stereo Inputs Inputs Mono Mono Output Output Output Gain Control Fig 9-4: RB-SM2 Rear Panel.

  • Page 69: Stereo Inputs 1 (& 2)

    ST EREO TO M ON O CON VE RT E RS Stereo Inputs 1 (& 2) The input’s are a stereo pair consisting of two XLR 3 pin sockets electronically balanced with an impedance of 20kΩ bridging. They can be wired unbalanced to accept an output from domestic equipment.

  • Page 70: Technical Specifications Rb-Sm1 & Rb-Sm2

    STE R E O TO MO NO CONVE RT E R S Technical Specifications RB-SM1 & RB-SM2 Audio Specifications Maximum Input Level: +28dBu Maximum Output Level: +28dBu Input Impedance: >20kΩ balanced bridging Output Impedance: <50Ω balanced Frequency Response: 20Hz to 20kHz ±0.1dB (600Ω load, ref 1kHz) Gain Range: Adjust 8dB loss to 18dB gain, ref 0dB input on L and R Common Mode Rejection:...

  • Page 71: 10 Rb-Lc3 3 Way Light/Power Controller

    GE N ER AL I N T E RFACE S 10 RB-LC3 3 Way Light/Power Controller Introduction Fig 10-1: RB-LC3 Front Panel. The RB-LC3 is a triple output switching unit for controlling external mains indicators, primarily studio status lights for broadcasting applications, such as On-Air, Mic-Live and Rehearsal/Live lights.

  • Page 72: System Block Diagram

    GE N E R AL IN TERFACES System Block Diagram Zero Cross-point Switch Mains Output 1 Zero Cross-point Switch Mains Mains Input Output 2 Remotes Zero Cross-point Switch Settings Mains Control Output 3 Status Detection & Ring Mute Telephone Telephone Line Input Handset Output Fig 10-2: RB-LC3 Block Diagram.

  • Page 73: Switched Mains Outputs

    GE N ER AL I N T E RFACE S Switched Mains Outputs The 3 off IEC connectors provide the switched mains outputs. Each output is rated at 1A and is individually fused. A neon indicator shows when the output is live. The outputs are driven by zero cross-point drivers.

  • Page 74: Configuration Switches

    GE N E R AL IN TERFACES Configuration Switches The configuration switches are used to set the flash mode for each output separately. The selections allow the outputs to be controlled by a remote input, a telephone call, or a combination of remote inputs, say, for example to control 2 lights such as “Rehearsal”...

  • Page 75: Fig 10-4: Output 1 Configuration

    GE N ER AL I N T E RFACE S Output 1 On when Remote 1 asserted and Remote 2 asserted Reserved for future assignment Latching Mode selection for Output 1 Momentary Mode selection for Output 1 Fig 10-4: Output 1 Configuration Setting. The available settings for output 2, configured using switches Sw5 to Sw8, are detailed below: Setting...

  • Page 76: Flash Rate Preset Potentiometer

    GE N E R AL IN TERFACES The available settings for output 3, configured using switches Sw9 to Sw12, are detailed below: Setting Sw10 Sw11 Sw12 Description Flash Output 3 when telephone rings. Output 3 On when telephone is off-hook Output 3 On when telephone is off-hook Flash Output 3 when telephone rings Output 3 On when Remote 1 asserted...

  • Page 77: Technical Specifications Rb-Lc3

    GE N ER AL I N T E RFACE S Technical Specifications RB-LC3 Connections Mains Input: Non-filtered IEC, 110V-240V auto-adjusting, fused, 6W maximum Fuse Rating (Mains Input): Anti-surge fuse 100mA 20 x 5mm (230VAC) Anti-surge fuse 250mA 20 x 5mm (115VAC) Mains Outputs: 3 x Non-filtered IEC plugs, 1A fused Fuse Rating (Mains Outputs):...

  • Page 78: 11 Rb-Mm1 Mix Minus Generator

    GE N E R AL IN TERFACES 11 RB-MM1 Mix Minus Generator Introduction Fig 11-1: RB-MM1 Front Panel. Whenever programming originates from outside of the studio, or if listeners/viewers are calling up a phone-in using telephone hybrids or codecs, mix-minus feeds are required. Most telephone lines incur delays which prohibit off-air monitoring, because the caller, or remote talent, would hear their own voice in delay which is very disconcerting.

  • Page 79: Front Panel Indicator

    GE N ER AL I N T E RFACE S Front Panel Indicator The LED on the front panel is normally red to indicate that power is present on the unit. Rear Panel Connections and Operation Null Adjustment LF Full- From Mixer Output Band...

  • Page 80: Band Pass Filter Switch

    Operation of the RB-MM1 Before you receive your RB-MM1, it is calibrated at Sonifex by using two signals of equivalent amplitude and frequency. In some cases it may require recalibrating for use on a mixer to match the properties of that mixer. In order to do this make the following connections: 1.
  • Page 81 GE N ER AL I N T E RFACE S Common Mode Rejection: >60dB Band Pass Filter Range: 200Hz to 4kHz, 12dB/octave LF Null Adjustment: Better than 40dB at 100Hz Mix-Minus Null: Better than 40dB at 1kHz Frequency Response: 20Hz - 22kHz ± 0.1dB Distortion: 0.01% THD @ 1kHz, ref +8dBu output (C-Message weighted)

  • Page 82: 12 Rb-Oa3 3 Studio On-Air Switcher

    15 way D-types, connecting to an external control unit such as the Sonifex S2-MTBS mixer control panel or the RB-OA3R remote switcher panel. A transmission mix connection is included to mix into the transmission path audio which is generic to all studios.

  • Page 83: System Block Diagram

    GE N ER AL I N T E RFACE S The RB-OA3 can be expanded to switch between up to 5 studios or up to 6 stereo pairs by connecting a multiple of units together. With the addition of a single unit, expansion in studio mode allows for 2 additional studios to take control of the transmission path and additional equipment.

  • Page 84: Rear Panel Connections And Operation

    GE N E R AL IN TERFACES Rear Panel Connections and Operation Transmission Studio 2 Control Serial Serial Output Connector Connector Port 1 Port 2 LSO Expansion Fuse Studio 1 Audio Connector Connector Studio 1 Control Mix Input Studio 2 Audio Profanity Delay IEC Mains Connector...

  • Page 85: Force Last Used Studio Mode

    GE N ER AL I N T E RFACE S This will set the unit to Force Last Used Studio mode This will set the unit to Force Studio 1 mode Fig 12-5: RB-OA3 Unit Identity Reset Settings. Force Last Used Studio Mode When a studio is selected, the value of that studio is stored in the unit.

  • Page 86: Lso Expansion Port

    GE N E R AL IN TERFACES LSO Expansion Port Leave disconnected. Serial Ports DIP Switch Settings Leave these disconnected. Studio Expansion Master Transmission Fig 12-6: RB-OA3 Studio Expansion Diagram. Connect two units to allow the switching of 3 stereo busses between 5 studios giving the user control over more studios.

  • Page 87: Bus Expansion

    GE N ER AL I N T E RFACE S Bus Expansion DIP Switch Settings Master Transmission Fig 12-7: RB-OA3 Bus Expansion Diagram. Connect two units to allow the switching of 6 stereo busses between 3 studios so that the studios can share more peripheral devices. To achieve this configure one unit as the MASTER and one unit as the BUS EXPANSION SLAVE: Studio Connections Connect three studios to the MASTER unit and connect the MASTER TRANSMISSION...

  • Page 88: Studio & Bus (4 Unit) Expansion

    GE N E R AL IN TERFACES Studio & Bus (4 Unit) Expansion DIP Switch Settings DIP Switch Settings Master Transmission B&S Fig 12-8: RB-OA3 Studio & Bus Expansion Diagram. Connect two units to allow the switching of 6 stereo busses between 3 studios allowing the studios to share more peripheral devices.

  • Page 89: Serial Ports

    GE N ER AL I N T E RFACE S (available in the RB-OA3C cable pack). For the BUS EXPANSION SLAVE and STUDIO & BUS EXPANSION SLAVE, there is no need to connect the LSO expansion cables since the LSO is not used in bus expansion.

  • Page 90: Control Panel Leds

    GE N E R AL IN TERFACES in. When the unit is operating as a STUDIO EXPANSION SLAVE, if one of the MASTER unit’s studios is routed to the transmission path, STUDIO 1 LED will always be illuminated. If one of SLAVE’S studios is selected, the MASTER unit’s studio indications will all be extinguished.
  • Page 91 GE N ER AL I N T E RFACE S control to take transmission back from it. Think of it as a studio which has no Offer and Accept controls of its own, but which can still be put to and from transmission by the other studios.

  • Page 92: Fig 12-10: Offer & Accept Button

    GE N E R AL IN TERFACES Transmission Studio Other Studio OFFER ACCEPT OFFER ACCEPT ACCEPT STATE Press OFFER to offer control OFFER STATE Press OFFER to Press ACCEPT take back control to take control Studio 3 Always Other Studio Transmission Studio OFFER ACCEPT...

  • Page 93: Rear Panel Connections & Operation

    GE N ER AL I N T E RFACE S Rear Panel Connections & Operation LSO Expansion The connector is 9 a pin female D-type and is used to transfer the last studio to offer channel between units, when used in multiple unit mode. LSO Expansion Connector Details LSO Input Left Phase LSO Input Right Phase...

  • Page 94: Fig 12-13: Rb-Oa3 Mix Input Connector

    GE N E R AL IN TERFACES Mix Input Selection The interface is a 9 pin female D-type and is used to mix a stereo feed into the transmission path by using the MIX INPUT ON/OFF SWITCH, push button (rear panel, located next to the mix input).

  • Page 95: Transmission Outputs And Studio 1-3 Audio Connection Details

    GE N ER AL I N T E RFACE S Transmission Outputs and Studio 1-3 Audio Connection Details There are three studio interfaces to connect three individual studios to the unit. There is also a transmission interface which carries the main transmission output and 2 balanced stereo connections for interfacing with external units such as hybrids, or codecs, which you may want to share between studios.

  • Page 96: Fig 12-17: Rb-Oa3 Studio 1-3 Audio

    GE N E R AL IN TERFACES Studio 1-3 Audio Connection Details Transmission Left Phase (Input) Transmission Right Non Phase (Input) external unit Left Phase (Input/Output) external unit Right Non Phase (Input/Output) external unit Left Phase (Input/Output) external unit Right Non Phase (Input/Output) Last Studio to Offer Left Phase (Output) Last Studio to Offer Right Non Phase (Output) Transmission Left Non Phase (Input)

  • Page 97: Studio 1-3 Control Port Connection Details

    Each studio can be controlled externally via the optional RB-OA3R rack control system or, if the studio uses the Sonifex S2 mixer, the S2-MTBS panel which can be connected to the unit via these control ports. Each control panel enables control of the Offer, Accept and Sustain functions as well as Dump and Delay.

  • Page 98: Profanity Delay Control

    GE N E R AL IN TERFACES Profanity Delay Control A profanity delay unit can be attached and controlled to the unit via this interface. The control is achieved using a relay. Each function has an input pin and two possible output pins.

  • Page 99: Technical Specifications Rb-Oa3

    GE N ER AL I N T E RFACE S Technical Specifications RB-OA3 LSO Path: Input Impedance: >20kΩ Output Impedance: <50Ω Gain Range: Unity gain Frequency Response: 20Hz to 20kHz ±0.1dB Common Mode Rejection: < -52dB typically Distortion: 0.01%THD @ 1 kHz Noise: ~ -87dB unity gain, ref +8dBu Mix Audio Transformer Specifications:...

  • Page 100: Rb-Oa3R Remote Switch Panel For Rb-Oa3

    GE N E R AL IN TERFACES RB-OA3R Remote Switch Panel For RB-OA3 Introduction Power On Offer Button Dump Button Indicator Accept Button Delay Button Fig 12-23: RB-OA3R Front Panel. The RB-OA3 has been designed for installation in a central technical area with cabling to custom panels, or selection switches, in each studio.

  • Page 101: Fig 12-26: Rb-Oa3R Pin Out Definitions

    GE N ER AL I N T E RFACE S The connections are as follows: Offer Switch Offer Lamp Accept Switch Accept Lamp Delay Switch Delay Lamp Dump Switch Dump Lamp Ground Fig 12-26: RB-OA3R Pin Out Definitions. Fig 12-27: RB-OA3R Pin Out Positions. The 15V supply is fed through resistors to the LEDs.

  • Page 102: Technical Specifications Rb-Oa3R

    GE N E R AL IN TERFACES Technical Specifications RB-OA3R Connections: Studio Control: 1 x 15 way D type plug (male) Equipment Type RB-OA3R: Remote switch panel for RB-OA3 Physical Specification Dimensions (Raw): 48cm (W) x 10.8cm (D ) x 4.2cm (H) (1U) 19”...

  • Page 103: Rb-Oa3C Expansion Unit Cable Kit For Rb-Oa3

    GE N ER AL I N T E RFACE S RB-OA3C Expansion Unit Cable Kit For RB-OA3 Introduction If you add another RB-OA3 to an existing unit to expand either the number of busses or studios, you need additional cables to connect it which are contained in this kit: 1 x Transmission output expansion cable, 25 pin D-type male to 25 pin D-type male, 30cm lead, wired pin to pin.

  • Page 104: 13 Connectors & Cabling

    CON NE C TO RS & C AB LING 13 Connectors & Cabling Many of the problems associated with installing and maintaining studio equipment are due to the use of poor cables or faulty connections. It is recommended that, wherever possible, pre-wired cables are purchased from recommended manufacturers.

  • Page 105: D-Type Connectors

    CON NE C TOR S & C ABL IN G D-Type Connectors The following diagram shows the connection details for the D-type connectors as viewed from the rear of a Redbox : Pin 1 Male Pin 13 Pin 13 Female Pin 1 Pin 14 Pin 25...

  • Page 106: Glossary

    GLOS SA RY Glossary 1kHz 1000Hz or 1 kilohertz tone of 1kHz is often used for line-up and testing. ADSL Asynchronous Digital Subscriber Link - a broadband delivery system over standard telephone lines (between the exchange and the user). Audio Engineering Society. AES/EBU Professional digital audio standard covering frame format, connections and interfaces.
  • Page 107 GLOS SARY Digital Audio Tape. dB (decibel) A ratio of two voltages or signal levels, expressed by the equation dB=20LOG(V1/V2) Adding the suffix “u” denotes that the signal is relative to 0.775V RMS. Adding the suffix “v” denotes that the signal is relative to 1V RMS. This is radio code signal sourced from Mainflingen, near Frankfurt in Germany, which can be used to automatically synchronize the Sentinel+ audio logger and PC time to an accurate atomic clock,...
  • Page 108 GLOS SA RY kbps Kilo-bits per second - the number of 1s or 0s transmitted or transferred in one second. Kilo Hertz (samples per second). Local Area Network - scheme where several computers on the same premises are connected together so that they can exchange data. Liquid Crystal Display (grey displays e.g.
  • Page 109 In most European countries, including the UK, the TBU must be approved for connection to telephone company lines. Sonifex TBU’s carry British Telecom and pan European approval. The Total Harmonic Distortion is the percentage presence of signals outside the measured reference frequency.
  • Page 110 N OTE S Redbox User Handbook No 3...
  • Page 111 N OTE S Redbox User Handbook No 3...
  • Page 112 w w w . s o n i f e x . c o . u k t:+44 (0)1933 650 700 f:+44 (0)1933 650 726 s a l e s @ s o n i fe x . co. u k...

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