General Precautions and Considerations, Output, Input

15. OUTPUT

Two types of connectors are provided for the

outputs — male XLR and 1/4” TRS (Tip-Ring-Sleeve). These balanced outputs are in parallel, and provide exactly the same signal.

You can connect either a balanced TRS connector or an unbalanced TS connector to the 1/4” output jack. See “Appendix B: Connections” on page 14 for information on output connection wiring.

16. INPUT

Two types of connectors are provided for the inputs

—female XLR and 1/4” TRS (Tip-Ring-Sleeve). These balanced inputs are in parallel, so do not connect more than one signal at a time to the input jacks for each channel.

You can connect either a balanced or an unbalanced signal to the 1/4” input jack. A servo-circuit detects when there is an unbalanced signal and automatically adjusts the input level by 6 dB to compensate for the lower level. See “Appendix B: Connectors” on page 14 for information on output connection wiring.

17. SIDE CHAIN

This 1/4” TRS connector serves as an insert point to control the compressor. When a 1/4” TRS plug is connected to the SIDE CHAIN jack, the tip sends out a pre-compressor version of the signal, which can be passed through a processor like an equalizer or de-esser, and then returned via the ring of the plug. Special “Insert” Y-cords are available for this type of Send/Return insert jack.

It’s important to note that the signal at the SIDE CHAIN SEND (Tip) is not the actual signal passing through the compressor, but a buffered duplicate of the signal that can be processed externally to tailor the control signal.

Here are some examples of common ways to use the SIDE CHAIN connection:

Frequency-dependent compression: Connect the SIDE CHAIN SEND to the input of a graphic equalizer, and the output of the equalizer to the SIDE CHAIN RETURN. Boost the low frequencies with the graphic equalizer to trigger the compressor off the bass drum.

Time-shifted compression: Split the audio signal prior to the SQ•2 and route one signal directly

to the SIDE CHAIN RETURN (no connection to the SIDE CHAIN SEND). Route the other signal through a delay processor and then to the SQ•2 input. By experimenting with the delay time, the compressor can anticipate the signal at its input and trigger the compression slightly ahead of the actual peaks.

Ducking: Use a microphone to trigger the compressor and reduce the level of the audio signal while an announcement is being made over a PA system. Connect the microphone signal to the SIDE CHAIN RETURN (no connection to the SIDE CHAIN SEND).

GENERAL PRECAUTIONS AND CONSIDERATIONS

Rack Mounting

The SQ•2 is designed to be mounted in a standard rack. It requires only a single rack space (1U = 1.75”). It also requires 7.5” depth inside the rack, not counting the front knobs or rear connectors. When designing your rack, put the heavier items at the bottom and the lighter items toward the top.

Secure the front panel of the SQ•2 to the front of the rack using four screws with soft washers to prevent scratching the panel.

Thermal Considerations

Avoid mounting the SQ•2 directly over devices

that produce heat, such as power ampliﬁers. As with all electronic components, it is best to provide cool air circulation around the SQ•2 to avoid overheating. The ambient temperature should not exceed 113˚ F (45˚ C).

AC Power Considerations

Be sure the SQ•2 is plugged into an AC outlet that is able to supply the speciﬁed voltage, and the AC Select switch is set to the correct voltage.

Be sure the AC outlet can supply enough current to allow full power operation of all the components plugged into it, especially if there are power ampliﬁers plugged in. The outlet should be a three-prong socket that matches the power cord.

WARNING: Bypassing the plug’s safety ground pin can be dangerous. Don’t do it!