Wiring Up - SoundCraft FX16II User Manual

WIRING UP

Mic Input
The MIC input accepts XLR-type connectors and is designed to suit a wide
range of BALANCED or UNBALANCED low-level signals, whether from delicate
vocals requiring the best low-noise performance, or drum kits needing
maximum headroom. Professional dynamic, condenser or ribbon mics are
best because these will be LOW IMPEDANCE. While you can use low-cost
HIGH IMPEDANCE mics, you do not get the same degree of immunity to
interference on the microphone cable and as a result the level of background
noise may be higher. If you turn the PHANTOM POWER on, the socket provides
a suitable powering voltage for professional condenser mics.
DO NOT use UNBALANCED sources with the phantom power
switched on. The voltage on pins 2 & 3 of the XLR connector may
cause serious damage. BALANCED dynamic mics may normally be
used with phantom power switched on (contact your microphone
manufacturer for guidance)
The input level is set using the input GAIN knob.
The LINE input offers the same gain range as the MIC input, but at a higher
input impedance, and is 20dB less sensitive. This is suitable for most line
level sources.
WARNING !
Start with the input GAIN knob turned fully anticlockwise when
plugging high level sources into the LINE input to avoid
overloading the input channel or giving you a very loud surprise!
Line Input
Accepts 3-pole 6.35mm (1/4") jacks, or 2-pole mono jacks which will
automatically ground the 'cold' input. Use this input for sources other than
mics, such as keyboards, drum machines, synths, tape machines or DI boxes.
The input is BALANCED for low noise and immunity from interference, but you
can use UNBALANCED sources by wiring up the jacks as shown, although
you should then keep cable lengths as short as possible to minimise
interference pick-up on the cable. Note that the ring must be grounded if the
source is unbalanced. Set the input level using the GAIN knob, starting with
the knob turned fully anticlockwise. Unplug any MIC connection when using
the LINE input.
Insert Points (Input Channels, Mix Outputs and Sub Outputs)
The unbalanced insert point is a break in the signal path, allowing limiters,
compressors, special EQ or other signal processing units to be added in the
signal path. The Insert is a 3-pole 6.35mm (1/4") jack socket which is
normally bypassed. When a jack is inserted, the signal path is broken.
The signal from the insert point appears on the TIP of the plug and is returned
on the RING, with the sleeve as a common ground.
On Input Channels, the Send may be tapped off as an alternative pre-fade,
pre-EQ direct output if required, using a lead with tip and ring shorted together
so that the signal path is not interrupted.
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