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

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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