Operating Manual - PROTEA SYSTEM II 4.24C Crossover / System Processor

A Note About Input Signal Levels:

There are no analog gain trim adjustments on the Protea 4.24C, therefore all the processing (including gain) is done in the digital domain. As a consequence of this design philosophy, it is important to feed the Protea processor with the proper nominal signal level to achieve good signal to noise performance as well as headroom before clipping. The Protea 4.24C is designed to clip at signal levels above +20dBu = 7.75Vrms which places the noise floor lower than -90dBu. The optimum input signal level which should be fed into the Protea processor is 0dBu = .775Vrms. This input level will allow 20dB of headroom while giving a nominal signal that is >90dB above the noise floor.

5.2 MIDI Connections

The Protea family of products include five additional audio processors, the 4.24G Graphic Equalizer/Processor, 2.24S and 4.24S Graphic Equalizer slaves, and 2.24P and 4.24P Parametric Equalizer Slaves. For simultaneous system control of several Protea products which include the 4.24C, it is necessary to use MIDI cables to communicate program changes from the 4.24C to or from other Protea products. The most common instance of Protea MIDI control would be the use of Protea System Software, where a PC connects to one Protea product (through the RS-232 jack) and that unit connects to other Protea units via its Data In and Data Out jacks.

MIDI Pin-Out

31 524

Pin # Function

1NC

2Out & Thru - Ground, In - NC

3NC

4Data +5V

5 Data Signal

MIDI channel assignment within the 4.24C is done in the Util menu, and should match the MIDI channel selected within the crossover section of Protea System Software. Note: If the 4.24C is connected to the PC (RS-232 Dataport) and looped to another unit(s) via both MIDI jacks (Data In/Out), then the RS-232 switch on the back panel must be pushed in. If the 4.24C is any other part of the MIDI chain, or stands alone, the RS-232 switch on the back panel should be left out.

5.3 RS-232 Data Connections

Protea System Software for Windows communicates to the Protea 4.24C via the front panel RS-232 Dataport, using the computer's serial port (usually COM 1-4). COM port assignment is done in the software under the COMMUNI- CATIONS menu, and the 4.24C uses a D-Sub 9 pin female RS-232 connector, fully compatible with a PC serial COM port.

The 4.24C also has an RS-232 mode switch on the back panel which is normally left out. The only time to push in the RS-232 mode switch is when a PC is connected to the front panel RS-232 Dataport, and other units are looped into the back panel Data In and Data Out jacks.

D-Sub 9 Pin Female

RS-232 Pin-Out

5 4 3 2 1

9 8 7 6

Pin # RS-232 DCE Name

1Not Connected

2Transmitted Data

3 Received Data

4 Data Terminal Ready (tied to pin 6)

5Ground

6Data Set Ready (tied to pin 4)

7 Not Connected

8 Not Connected

9 Not Connected

 

AC

1/4A Max

On

 

 

Ashly Audio Inc.

D igital Audio Products

 

 

Made In USA

 

 

 

4. 24C

 

 

 

RS-232

 

 

 

 

 

 

CAUTION

 

 

 

 

 

Data In

Data Out

Risk of Electric

Standard Mode

5

6

7

8

Multiple Slave Mode

 

 

Shock. Do

80-240VAC 50-60Hz 20W

(1st Unit Only)

 

 

 

 

Not Open

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Ashly 4.24C manual Midi Connections, RS-232 Data Connections

4.24C specifications

Ashly 4.24C is a versatile and powerful audio processor that has gained popularity among sound engineers and audio professionals for its robust features and innovative technology. Designed specifically for live sound reinforcement, installed sound systems, and broadcast applications, this digital signal processor stands out in a crowded market by combining flexibility, performance, and ease of use.

One of the key features of the Ashly 4.24C is its comprehensive digital signal processing capabilities. With 24 individual input channels and 24 outputs, the device supports extensive routing options, enabling audio engineers to manage complex setups with ease. The processor includes a 4-band parametric equalizer, compressor, limiter, and noise gate on every channel, allowing for precise sound tailoring. Additionally, the inclusion of 16 built-in presets makes it easy to switch between different audio settings in live sound environments.

The Ashly 4.24C utilizes cutting-edge technologies to achieve superior sound quality. D/A and A/D converters are of high fidelity, ensuring that the audio signals remain clear and detailed throughout the processing chain. The device also features 24-bit resolution at sample rates up to 96 kHz, ensuring that even the most demanding audio applications are handled with professional quality. This emphasis on audio fidelity is particularly important in live sound and broadcast applications, where every nuance of sound can significantly impact the overall experience.

Ease of use is another standout characteristic of the Ashly 4.24C. The unit comes equipped with a user-friendly interface that includes an intuitive touchscreen, which simplifies the navigation of its numerous controls and settings. This graphical interface allows for greater visual feedback, making it easier for sound engineers to make adjustments during performances or broadcasts without needing to memorize complex configurations.

In terms of connectivity, the Ashly 4.24C offers a variety of inputs and outputs, including analog XLR, digital AES/EBU, and even optional Dante networking capability for seamless integration into modern networked audio systems. This flexibility ensures that the processor can fit into various setups, from small venues to large concert halls.

Overall, the Ashly 4.24C combines advanced audio processing technology with user-centric design, making it an excellent choice for professionals seeking high-quality sound solutions. Its multitude of features and capabilities ensure it meets the demands of contemporary audio applications while maintaining an accessible and manageable interface for users.