Refer servicing to qualified technical personnel only. Installation: Install console accordance with instructions printed in this User Guide. Do not connect the output of power amplifiers directly to the console. Use audio connectors and plugs only for their intended purpose. GL4800 User Guide...
The wire which is coloured Brown must be connected to the terminal in the plug which is marked with the letter L. Ensure that these colour codes are followed carefully in the event of the plug being changed. GL4800 User Guide...
Introduction Welcome to the Allen & Heath GL4800, the latest generation of the popular GL series of multi-function audio mixing consoles. We have tried to keep this user guide brief and to the point. Please read it fully before starting. Included is information on installing, connecting and operating the console, panel drawings, system block diagram, technical specification and cue sheets.
LAMP LAMP +48V +48V 2TRK RETURN POLARITY POLARITY POLARITY GL4800 LINE LINE 30 10 +10dB GAIN GAIN MULTI FUNCTION AUDIO MIXING CONSOLE LINE LINE 40dB REPLAY 40dB TO L-R 50Hz 50Hz OUT REV OUT REV OUT REV OUT REV OUT REV...
PFL/AFL system. The GL4800 Sys-Link V2 option is an input-only version, which allows the console to act as a master console but not as a slave. Connections can be made using two standard 37way D-type cables to any other console fitted with a Sys-Link V2 output.
Introducing the Allen & Heath GL4800 The GL4800 offers the professional user an uncompromised feature set and performance for the latest techniques in live sound engineering and recording. The console is available in 24, 32, 40 and 48 channel sizes with an external 3U rack power unit.
Page 9
Capability We know a thing or two about ‘Dual Functionality’ having pioneered this innovative feature back in the early 90’s. The GL4800 takes this an important stage further. Tamperproof recessed switches configure the console safely for optimum FOH or stage monitor operation, or for mixing monitors from FOH. In MONITOR mode the ‘M’ fader becomes the engineer’s monitor wedge control, you get all 10 aux masters available on...
4 segment LED (signal, 0, +6, peak) Mix meters 4 segment LED (signal, 0, +6, peak) Output meters 12 segment LED LED meter response peak reading Peak indicators on 5dB before clipping Signal indicators on -20dBu Meterpod Illuminated VU moving coil meters GL4800 User Guide...
Mode Switching Protected underpanel mode switches set the console architecture according to the required application, for example FOH or stage monitor. Select these using a pointed object. GL4800 SYSTEM BLOCK DIAGRAM PEAK DIR OUT routes the channel direct out 4-BAND FULL SWEEP...
Page 13
MONO / LISTEN WEDGE MONO MIX TB DIM MONO PEAK MONO OUT 2 = + FADER SEND +4dBu INSERT MTX 1 RETURN POST 0dBu MTX 2 MUTE POST MATRIX MTX 3 SAFE/PREVIEW SENDS POST MTX 4 PRE-MUTE GL4800 User Guide...
LINE DC POWER IN LINE LINE MTX4 MTX3 MTX2 MTX1 LINE LINE (MAIN) (BACKUP) GL4800 LISTEN WEDGE MONITOR 10 MONITOR 9 MONITOR 8 MONITOR 7 MONITOR 6 MONITOR 5 MONITOR 4 MONITOR 3 MONITOR 2 MONITOR 1 STAGE MONITOR MODE...
Page 15
MIX/AUX REV underpanel mode switch - Note that while the front panel LISTEN WEDGE control sections are swapped when the reverse mode switches are pressed, the signals always appear at their related connectors, ie. the connectors do not swap. GL4800 User Guide...
The standard power supply is the RPS11. Plug in a second RPS11 if a redundant backup is required. A chassis ground terminal post is provided. This connects to mains earth (MAIN) (BACKUP) through the power cable. GL4800 User Guide...
Use professional quality cables and connectors and check for correct wiring and reliable solder joints. If you are not sure ... Have your system checked by a competent engineer, or contact your local Allen & Heath agent for advice. GL4800 User Guide...
Connect only the Allen & Heath power unit specified for the console. The standard unit for GL4800 is the RPS11. This is an external 3U 19" rack mounted unit that connects to the console via the separate DC cable supplied. The RPS11 is a low noise linear design that converts AC mains voltage to the DC voltages required to power the console.
'yellow'. Reduce the gain if the red peak indicators flash. The GL4800 produces a standard XLR output level of +4dBu for a meter reading of 0VU. It is advisable to adjust the power amplifier input gain or fit an attenuator pad if normal console operation results in an output level too high for the connected amplifier.
Q switch to a Q of either 1 (wide band) or 2.4 (narrow band). Use wide band when you want to add presence or warmth to the sound. Use narrow band to control problem frequencies for example when notching out acoustic resonances. GL4800 User Guide...
Page 21
(5dB below clipping) and should be reduced using the GAIN control to prevent possible overload distortion. Press PFL to listen to the pre-fade signal on headphones or engineers monitor without affecting the main outputs. GL4800 User Guide...
The meter indicates the pre-fade left and right signals combined. PFL operates in stereo so that you can hear the image of the stereo source and check the relative levels on the L and R meters. GL4800 User Guide...
POLARITY difference channels. When combined the WIDTH MONO stereo content is cancelled out leaving STEREO GAIN true mono. Balance the two faders to DIRECT achieve the desired image. STEREO STEREO GL4800 User Guide...
TALKBACK TO AUX - This switch enables talkback to the related aux mix. When selected, pressing the large TALK switch routes talkback to the aux. When not selected, pressing GRP REV TALK does not affect the aux. TB TO AUX1 GL4800 User Guide...
Page 25
THE CONSOLE MATRIX - The GL4800 includes a versatile 11 x 4 output matrix. This comprises four independent outputs each with level control, ON switch and AFL monitoring. Each matrix mix is created from the desired combination of group (x8), L (left), R (right) and M (mono) signals.
THE CONSOLE LR AND LR2 OUTPUTS - In addition to the main L and R outputs the GL4800 includes a secondary pair of outputs called L2 and R2. These follow the LR mix and may be selected either pre or post LR faders. As with the...
'safe' during the show. You can talk to the 10 auxes in any combination, to the TALK M mix, LR mix, all 8 groups together, and all 4 matrix together. GL4800 User Guide...
Page 28
THE MONO MIX - The GL4800 includes an independent mix buss for the M (mono) output. Each channel and group can be routed direct to this buss by pressing the related M routing switch. The signal is sourced pre PAN control so that the mono mix is not affected when the stereo mix image is adjusted.
Page 29
It is recommended that these are the standard 12V 2.5 watt type. THE CONSOLE MONITOR - The GL4800 offers a comprehensive signal monitoring system. Apart from the extensive metering facilities there is a monitor section which operates independently of the main outputs.
MODE ACTIVE or off. CHANNEL PATCH The GL4800 provides a 'soft' mute system controlled by a built-in microprocessor which gives far greater control and versatility than the SOLO IN-PLACE conventional systems found in other consoles. A ramped FET audio element on each channel provides silent muting under control of the microprocessor.
Page 31
The display flashes CLr Press SHIFT + RECALL again. The display flashes SEt AUTO Press any other key to cancel or INCREMENT Press RECALL to confirm. RECALL The LED will turn off. All console mutes will turn on. DISABLE GL4800 User Guide...
The GL4800 includes 8 mute groups controlled by a bank of large buttons to the right of the master faders. These may be selected one at a time or together depending on the mode of operation preferred.
Page 33
Press a MUTE GROUP (1 to 8) to turn the group on. The red LED indicates that the group is selected. The channels programmed into the group are muted. Press MUTE GROUP again to turn the group off. GL4800 User Guide...
Page 34
SCENE GROUPS Press MUTE GROUP All green LEDs turn off. The mutes are cleared (or set) in the group. To edit another mute group press MUTE GROUP or Press EDIT GROUP again to exit 'edit mode'. DISABLE GL4800 User Guide...
Snapshots can be archived and recalled via MIDI. The GL4800 includes 128 mute snapshot memories. The snapshot number is simply dialled up on the 3 segment display and its contents recalled or overwritten with the current console settings. Recalling a snapshot does not overwrite any active groups.
The display indicates the console MIDI channel number selected. This can be channel to 16 or OFF Software Version Number Refer to the section on TECHNICAL SUPPORT. Error Codes Displays the error number and code referenced in the section on TECHNICAL SUPPORT. GL4800 User Guide...
Page 38
DISABLE Recall a Mute Snapshot Scroll to select the required snapshot Press RECALL The console mutes are overwritten with the contents of the selected snapshot. Channels made 'safe' are not affected. Active mute groups are not affected. GL4800 User Guide...
Page 39
The red LED and the display both flash to warn that all snapshots will be overwritten. Press any other key to cancel or Press STORE again to confirm the overwrite function. The display scrolls automatically through all 128 snapshot numbers as the snapshot memory is overwritten. GL4800 User Guide...
The GL4800 Solo-In-Place system lets you quickly solo selected channels using a two key press that prevents accidental operation during a live performance. You can toggle between your last selected solo setting and the full mix to compare the effect.
The GL4800 includes a 'solo safe' facility so that selected mutes can be disabled from the solo system. This works in the same way as the 'mute safes' described earlier but affects solo and not the mute groups or snapshots.
Sophisticated recording and live sound control is now possible by interfacing sound consoles with other MIDI equipment. The GL4800 includes a full opto-isolated Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) system. Standard 5-pin IN, OUT, THRU sockets allow...
Page 43
Release SHIFT + PREVIEW to exit. Disable the Console MIDI System Enter 'MIDI mode' as above. While holding SHIFT + PREVIEW scroll through the MIDI channel numbers using Leave the display set to OFF PREVIEW Release SHIFT + PREVIEW to exit. DISABLE GL4800 User Guide...
Page 44
= console MIDI channel number <packet no.> = packet number from 0 to 127 <data> 7 bit block of console data followed by a number of 00 pad bytes. <checksum> = checksum to allow error detection. GL4800 User Guide...
Page 45
This is ideal when you want to archive settings and recall them at a later date, for example a re-run of a previous performance. You can also use the dump facility to program additional GL4800 consoles, for example when setting up duplicate shows or swapping consoles around.
Technical Support Should you have any queries about the GL4800 console automation system please quote the console model, serial number and software version number in any communication with Allen & Heath or appointed service agent. The system has been designed and tested to be reliable under the harsh conditions typical of live sound 'on the road'.
Front-of-House with recording STAGE MONITOR WEDGE SPEAKERS POWER AMPLIFIERS EFFECTS 2TRK REPLAY to broadcast DELAY inserts DELAY MULTITRACK RECORDING GL4800 MODE MONITOR STAGE MONITOR MONITOR MONITOR MONITOR MONITOR MONITOR MONITOR MONITOR MONITOR MONITOR WEDGE LISTEN (BACKUP) (MAIN) LINE MTX1 MTX2...
Page 49
You may also be required to provide separate recording, broadcast and zone feeds, and even record the show for the performers. This application demonstrates the versatility of the GL4800. Here, the console controls a LCR + delay fill speaker system, stage monitors, stereo broadcast feed, with 2-track and multitrack recording.
Page 50
Turn off L-R MIX to keep the monitors quiet unless AFL or PFL is selected. This prevents unnecessary distraction during a live performance. Check the mono compatability of a stereo signal by pressing MONO. The L, R and M meters also provide a visual check. GL4800 User Guide...
Page 51
A simultaneous stereo recording can be made of the performance by feeding additional console outputs to a 2-track such as a cassette or DAT recorder. The GL4800 offers several methods depending on the application. In each case a separate output level trim is provided so that you can match the console to the operating level of the recorder, usually +4dBu (high level) or -10dBV (low level).
Mixing system on-stage control performers monitor GRAPHIC EQ loudspeakers (wedges). Provides 12 monitors (10 wedges + LR sidefills) and a dedicated engineers 'listen' wedge output. insert INPUTS GL4800 MODE MONITOR STAGE MONITOR MONITOR MONITOR MONITOR MONITOR MONITOR MONITOR MONITOR MONITOR...
Page 53
Using the GL4800 as a Monitor Console The GL4800 can be easily configured to function as a dedicated 12 buss on-stage monitor console (10 wedges plus side fills), 14 buss (10 wedges plus 4 IEM), or many other combinations. In this example, the console is positioned at the side of the stage giving the monitor engineer a clear view of the performers on stage.
Page 54
ENABLE. Recording From the Monitor Console The GL4800 provides the unique facility to record the show from the monitor console rather than additional dedicated recording console. This significantly adds to the value of the service offered to the performers in situations where the front-of-house engineer is overworked or budget and time are tight.
Provides output balance and level trim independent of the mix levels. All outputs are balanced XLR with inserts for EQ, delay or other signal processors. POWER AMPLIFIERS GRAPHIC EQ inserts DELAY GL4800 MODE MONITOR STAGE MONITOR MONITOR MONITOR MONITOR MONITOR...
Internal Link Options The GL4800 is configured to satisfy most applications that should be encountered. However, the following internal link options are offered for those applications that may require alternative settings. These options require access to the internal circuit assemblies and resoldering of circuit board links.
Cue Sheet 1 of 5 Master GL4800 Copy and use this page to record your console settings. LAMP LAMP 2TRK RETURN GL4800 +10dB MULTI FUNCTION AUDIO MIXING CONSOLE REPLAY TO L-R OUT REV OUT REV OUT REV OUT REV OUT REV...
Cue Sheet 2 of 5 GL4800 Copy and use this page to record your console settings. +48V +48V +48V +48V +48V +48V +48V +48V POLARITY POLARITY POLARITY POLARITY POLARITY POLARITY POLARITY POLARITY LINE LINE LINE LINE LINE LINE LINE LINE...
Page 59
Cue Sheet 3 of 5 GL4800 Copy and use this page to record your console settings. +48V +48V +48V +48V +48V +48V +48V +48V POLARITY POLARITY POLARITY POLARITY POLARITY POLARITY POLARITY POLARITY POLARITY LINE LINE LINE LINE LINE LINE LINE...
Page 60
Cue Sheet 4 of 5 GL4800 Copy and use this page to record your console settings. +48V +48V +48V +48V +48V +48V +48V +48V POLARITY POLARITY POLARITY POLARITY POLARITY POLARITY POLARITY POLARITY LINE LINE LINE LINE LINE LINE LINE LINE...
Page 61
Cue Sheet 5 of 5 GL4800 Copy and use this page to record your console settings. +48V +48V +48V +48V +48V +48V +48V +48V POLARITY POLARITY POLARITY POLARITY POLARITY POLARITY POLARITY POLARITY LINE LINE LINE LINE LINE LINE LINE LINE...
Need help?
Do you have a question about the GL4800 and is the answer not in the manual?
Questions and answers