Alesis 7-51-0121-A manual Connecting to equipment with XLR inputs and outputs, About audio cables

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Connecting to equipment with XLR inputs and outputs:

If you are connecting the Smashup to a product with XLR balanced inputs and outputs, you will need to convert this signal to a 1/4” unbalanced connector. Make sure that Pin 2 of the XLR connector is connected to the Tip of the 1/4” adapter or cable.

Watch out for high levels, however: some XLR sources put out levels close to the maximum the Smashup can accept (about +12 dBu) even when its trim is at minimum. Lower the level of the source if the [SIGNAL] LED flashes red.

About audio cables

The connections between the Smashup and your studio are your music’s lifeline, so use only high quality cables. These should be low-capacitance shielded cables with a stranded (not solid) internal conductor and a low-resistance shield. Although quality cables cost more, they do make a difference.

Route cables to the Smashup correctly by observing the following precautions:

Do not bundle audio cables with AC power cords.

Avoid running audio cables near sources of electromagnetic interference such as transformers, monitors, computers, etc.

Do not place cables where they can be stepped on. Stepping on a cable may not cause immediate damage, but it can compress the insulation between the center conductor and shield (degrading performance) or reduce the cable’s reliability.

Avoid twisting the cable or having it make sharp, right angle turns.

Never unplug a cable by pulling on the wire itself. Always unplug by firmly grasping the body of the plug and pulling directly outward.

Connections 2

Don't use line transformers:

Many XLR-to-1/4" adapters sold at electronics stores are NOT adapters, but transformers (and very low quality transformers at that). Don't use these on the output of the Smashup—they're unnecessary and generally sound awful because they don't have the headroom to handle the Smashup's output. Get a hard-wired adapter or cable from your professional audio dealer, or make one yourself from components.

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Contents Reference Manual Page Table of Contents Table Of Contents Welcome IntroductionAbout the Smashup Important features of your SmashupIntroduction Smashup Key Features How to Use This Manual Please follow these precautions when using this product Safety Instructions/NoticesImportant Safety Instructions English Safety symbols used in this productImportant Safety Instructions FCC Compliance Statement CE Declaration Of ConformityInstructions de Sécurité Importantes French Symboles utilisés dans ce produitImportant Safety Instructions Lesen Sie bitte die folgende Sicherheitshinweise German Sicherheit Symbole verwendet in diesem ProduktImportant Safety Instructions This page intentionally left blank Hook it up to a synthesizer If youre new to signal ProcessingQuick Start Guide If you can’t wait to get startedRear Panel Quick Start GuideQuick overview of the controls Unpacking and Inspection Installing in a RackPower ConnectionsTurn up the trim Connecting audioConnections In-line connectionConnecting to the Channel Inserts of a mixing console Connecting to the inserts on an instrument amplifier Connecting to the Main Outputs of a mixing consoleDont use line transformers Connecting to equipment with XLR inputs and outputsAbout audio cables What about the input and output jacks on the slave units? Using the ModLinkWhat is a compressor? Using the SmashupAttack/Release times vary by Type Using the SmashupWhat the controls do How the Smashup goes beyond just compression About stereo compression Operational adviceSetting Levels Gain structureGraph of compression Description of ControlsThreshold Graph of input levelPumping Breathing AttackLook Ahead ReleaseSizzle FAT mode and SizzleOutput Transparent Type Select SwitchClassic OptoFat De-EssPump Bypass Using the Foot SwitchDe-Ess Sample SettingsThreshold and Output settings may need changing ClassicPump Sample SettingsFat OptoBlank TransparentBlank Settings Templates Troubleshooting Index TroubleshootingTroubleshooting Avoiding ground loop noise Keep Audio Wiring AS FAR Away from AC Wiring AS PossibleLine conditioners and spike protectors Refer all servicing to Alesis Care and MaintenanceCleaning Customers outside the USA and Canada Obtaining repair serviceCustomers in the USA and Canada Mechanical SpecificationsAudio Input Audio OutputSpecifications Index Foot SWITCH, 16Alesis Limited Warranty Warranty / Contact AlesisAlesis Contact Information Warranty/Contact Information