Eurorack Overview, Architecture, Metering

EURORACK MX2642A

2. EURORACK OVERVIEW

The configuration is 26 into 4 into 2. This means that there are 26 inputs in total (8 mono and 4 stereo channels, 4 stereo line inputs, and an extra 2-track stereo input which can also be routed to the main mix. 2 stereo (or 4 mono) subgroups are provided for connecting to multitrack tape recorders, or for use as an aid during mixdown or a live concert mix.

2.1Architecture

Mono Input Channels

Channels 1 - 8 are mono, with a choice of balanced mic or line inputs. The vintage-style high-current discrete mic amps are of the same incredible quality as those found on the acclaimed BEHRINGER EURODESK MX9000, while a large external power supply ensures low noise and superior transient response at all times. Insert points and direct outputs are also provided, giving “big console” functionality to the mono input channels.

Stereo Input Channels

A further 8 line inputs on the MX2642A are configured as 4 stereo input channels, accepting line level signals at -10 dBV (semi-pro) as well as at +4 dBu (professional) operating levels. These are ideal for multitrack tape returns, or for accepting outputs from MIDI and other electronic instruments.

Channel Outputs

A high-quality true-logarithmic 60 mm fader feeds the main via a constant-power channel PANORAMA control.

On your MX2642A, subgroup buses are fed via SUBGROUP and MIX ASSIGN switches, too. Here the channel PANORAMA control also selects between odd and even-numbered subgroup buses.

Subgroups

For ease and flexibility of mixing, four mono (two stereo) assignable subgroups are provided on your MX2642A.

Aux Sends

There are six aux send buses on the MX2642A, each with PFL.

Stereo Line Inputs

Four stereo line inputs, each with Solo/PFL, lie above the subgroup faders. These inputs are each assigned to two aux send buses. When these are used for returning tape tracks, these aux sends could be used as cue feeds to the performers’ headphones, or as effects sends for “wet” monitoring. Alternatively, the stereo line inputs could be used for MIDI instruments etc.

Main Mix Output

Main mix output level is via a high-quality true-log 60 mm stereo fader, and is monitored by a pair of accurate 12 segment bargraph peak meters, surrounded by four status LED’s. Other functions of the main section include headphones output with gain, and a 2-track tape return, which doubles as an extra stereo line input available to the mix with its own level control, completing the 26 input channels of the innovative MX2642A.

2.2Metering

Channels 1 - 8 on your MX2642A have overload LED’s, while the L and R outputs have 12 segment bargraph meters. The L/R meters double up as mono PFL or stereo solo meters.

+The master bargraph meters should average around 0 dB during loud passages. If they read persistently higher, or are peaking above +10 dB (top segment of the main L/R LED display), reduce either the main L/R fader, the subgroup faders and/or channel faders, or (as a last resort) channel input gain. Maybe it’s time to do a round of PFL metering.

2. EURORACK OVERVIEW