Behringer UB1202FX General mixing console functions, The user’s manual, Before you get started

EURORACK UB1002FX/UB1202FX

CAUTION!

+We should like to draw your attention to the fact that extreme volumes may damage your hearing and/or your headphones or loudspeakers. Turn the MAIN MIX control and PHONES control in the main section fully counterclockwise before you switch on the unit. Always be careful to set appropriate volume levels.

1.1 General mixing console functions

A mixing console fulfils three main functions:

sSignal processing:

Preamplification

Microphones convert sound waves into voltage that has to be amplified several-fold; then, this voltage is turned into sound that is reproduced in a loudspeaker. Because micro- phone capsules are very delicate in their construction, output voltage is very low and therefore susceptible to interference. Therefore, mic signal voltage is amplified directly at the mixer input to a higher signal level that is less prone to interference. This higher, interference-safe signal level has to be achieved through amplification using an amplifier of the highest quality in order to amplify the signal and add as little noise to it as possible. The IMP “Invisible” Mic Preamp performs this role beautifully, leaving no traces of noise or sound coloration. Interference that could take place at the preamplification level could affect signal quality and purity, and would then be passed on to all other devices, resulting in inaccurate sounding program during recording or playback.

Level-setting

Signals fed into the mixer using a DI-box (Direct Injection) or the output of a sound card or a keyboard, often have to be adjusted to the operating level of your mixing console.

Frequency response correction

Using the equalizers found in each channel strip, you can simply, quickly and effectively adjust the way a signal sounds.

sSignal distribution:

Individual, processed signals from the channel strips are compiled on busses and are fed into the main section for further processing. Connections for recording equipment, power amplifiers, headphones as well as CD/tape connectors are available here. The mix is sent to the internal FX processors or external effects processors via aux sends and returns. Similarly, a mix can be created for the musicians on the stage (monitor mix).

sMix:

All other mixing console functions fall under this vital category. Creating a mix means primarily adjusting the volume levels of individual instruments and voices to one another as well as giving them the appropriate weight within the overall frequency spectrum. Likewise, you’ll have to sensibly spread individual voices across the stereo image of a signal. At the end of this process, adjusting the level of the entire mix to other equipment in the signal path is required (e. g. recorder/crossover/amplifier).

The interface of BEHRINGER mixing consoles is optimized for these tasks, enabling you to easily keep track of the signal path.

1.2 The user’s manual

The user’s manual is designed to give you both an overview of the controls, as well as detailed information on how to use them. In order to help you understand the links between the controls, we have arranged them in groups according to their function. If you need to know more about specific issues, please visit our website at http://www.behringer.com. Additional information and explanations about various music industry/audio technology terminology can be found on individual product pages as well as in the glossary area of www.behringer.com.

+The block diagram supplied with the mixing console gives you an overview of the connections between the inputs and outputs, as well as the associated switches and controls.

For the moment, just try and trace the signal path from the microphone input to the FX SEND connector. Don’t be put off by the huge range of possibilities; it’s easier than you think! If you look at the overview of the controls at the same time, you’ll be able to quickly familiarize yourself with your mixing console and you’ll soon be making the most of all its many possibilities.

1.3 Before you get started

1.3.1 Shipment

Your mixing console was carefully packed in the factory to guarantee safe transport. Nevertheless, we recommend that you carefully examine the packaging and its contents for any signs of physical damage that may have occurred during transit.

+If the unit is damaged, please do NOT return it to us, but notify your dealer and the shipping company immediately, otherwise claims for damage or replacement may not be granted.

+To assure optimal protection of your EURORACK during use or transport, we recommend utilizing a carrying case.

+Please always use the original packaging to avoid damage due to storage or shipping.

+Never let unsupervised children play with the EURORACK or with its packaging.

+Please dispose of all packaging materials in an environmentally-friendly fashion.

1.3.2 Initial operation

Be sure that there is enough space around the unit for cooling purposes and to avoid overheating please do not place your mixing console on high-temperature equipment such as radiators or power amps.

+Never connect the EURORACK to the power supply unit when the latter is connected to the mains! First connect the power supply unit to the console, then connect the power supply unit to the mains.

+Please make sure that all units have a proper ground connection. For your own safety, never remove or disable the ground conductor from the unit or on the AC power cord. The unit should always be connected to a mains socket outlet with a protective earthing connection.

+When installing the product, ensure the appliance coupler or power cord is easily accessible for disconnecting the unit from mains.

4 1. INTRODUCTION