Using The Cherry Picker - Radial Engineering Cherry Picker User Manual

True to the Music
TESTING THE AUDIO
Once you have made connections and determined the proper phantom power setting for
your source you are set to turn up the level on your audio system and begin testing. Always
test at a low level as this reduces risk of equipment damage and feedback.
Start with testing output-1 by depressing the OUT-1 switch on the front panel. This will
automatically shut off the previously selected output, thus ensuring only one mic preamp
is on at any time. The LED indicator displays the active output. Turn it up and listen to the
preamp. If all is well, switch to output-2 and adjust the level so that both preamps play at the
same relative loudness. Repeat for outputs 3 and 4.
If you hear any hum or buzz try depressing the ground LIFT switch. This disconnects the
signal ground (pin-1) at the male XLR on each of the four outputs. This often helps eliminate
the noise caused by ground loops. If you hear excessive clicking or popping when you switch
between preamps, check to make sure that you have turned off the phantom power on all
your preamps. Note that there will always be a bit of clicking noise when switching audio.
This is normal.

USING THE CHERRY PICKER

Once the signal is tested and fl owing, increase the output levels so that you are at
a comfortable listening volume. You should then re-test to make sure the levels of each
preamp play at the same relative loudness. This is important as humans are easily fooled into
believing that the louder channel sounds better. This will result in a more honest conclusion.
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If after auditioning you are not 'convinced' of your mic selection, simply depress the front
panel MUTE switch and try another microphone. The mute function will turn off the signal
going to the outputs allowing you to switch mics without having to reset the relative volumes
between your preamps.
Getting the artist to participate
It is very benefi cial to have the artist participate in the mic and preamp selection process. Doing
this enables them to 'hear' what they expect and ultimately makes them more comfortable in
your studio. When the artist is relaxed, you can usually coax a better performance out of him
or her which ultimately means a better recording.
Radial Engineering Ltd.
PREAMP 4
PREAMP 3
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PREAMP 2
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PREAMP 1
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Cherry Picker™