Setting the Correct Gain Structure | Samson MIXPAD manual

Setting the Correct Gain

Structure

You’re now ready to establish the correct gain structure—the key to getting the best performance from the MIXPAD, or from any mixer, for that matter. This is a simple procedure that ensures optimum input and output levels so that no unnecessary noise (caused by too low a signal) or overload distortion (caused by too high a signal) is created. Here’s a step-by-step description of how to do so:

a.With all connections made (as described above) but with the power amplifier and MIXPAD powered off, set the power amplifier volume to minimum. On the MIXPAD, turn all channel Trim and Level controls fully counterclockwise, and set the Main Level control to its “0” position.

b.If you are using a MIXPAD 4 and either or both connected microphones require 18 volts phantom power, press in the corresponding phantom power switch.

c.Set all channel equalizer and pan/balance knobs to their center detented “0” positions.

d.Set all channel Aux send knobs and all Aux return level knobs fully counterclockwise.

e.Turn on all devices connected to channel line inputs and Aux returns and set their level controls to unity gain or, if there is no unity gain indi- cated on their output control, to maximum. If you’ve got effects proces- sors connected to Aux returns, make sure they are sending completely “wet” (processed) signal, with no “dry” (unprocessed) signal mixed in.

f.Press the MIXPAD Power switch in order to turn the unit on. Finally, turn on the power amplifier and set it to a moderate listening level.

g.Play an instrument connected to one of the MIXPAD’s line inputs* and, while doing so, slowly raise the corresponding channel Level control to the 2 o’clock “0” position (for most line-level signals, the Trim control should remain fully counterclockwise). Listen for signs of any distortion. If you hear any, you may need to lower the output level of the instrument, though this will rarely occur. Conversely, if the signal is too low, something’s wrong: in all likelihood, the connecting audio cable is faulty.

*If you’re using an instrument such as electric guitar or bass, we recommend that you connect it to the MIXPAD with a direct injection box to ensure correct impedance.