Chapter 1 - Setting Up

Interfacing to a Mixing Console

The Q20 handles mono or stereo sends at all system levels. The input circuitry of the Q20 can easily handle +4 dBu levels (+17.5 dBu peaks), while having enough input and output gain to interface with the lower -10 dBV signal levels of many recording systems.

The Q20 may be connected to a mixing console in several ways. Usually, it is connected to the auxiliary send and return controls of the mixer. Another method of interfacing is to connect the unit directly to the insert send and return patch points of the channel that is to be effected. Still another way of interfacing the Q20 to a mixer or recording console would be in-line across the output of your mixing console. This last setup would be used only if you needed to effect the entire mix.

Using the Aux Sends

Generally, mixing consoles provide two types of auxiliary sends: pre-fader sends for creating a cue (headphone) mix, and individual, post-fader effect sends. Typically, if a mixer has more than two sends per channel (4, 6 or 8, perhaps), the first two sends are reserved for the cue sends, while the remaining sends are used to feed effects. If you are using a mixer with more than two sends, connect the Q20 using post-fader sends.

Using a mixerÕs aux sends poses a distinct advantage: each channel has its own level control feeding the aux output (and eventually the Q20 input). This allows you to make a mix of any channels you want to go to the effects by using the individual channelsÕ aux send levels on the mixer. Most consoles also have aux master controls, which set the overall level of each aux output.

Coming back from the Q20Õs outputs into the mixer, you have two options:

¥connecting to dedicated return inputs, or

¥connecting to channel inputs.

The former is good if your mixer provides dedicated inputs (called returns) for effect devices like the Q20. If your mixer does not have these, or you have already used them all, consider connecting the Q20 to channel inputs or unused tape returns. You may also want to take advantage of better EQ, panning or automation options on your consoleÕs channel inputs.

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Q20 Reference Manual