Mackie DX8 Using the Digital Signal Processors, Using Inputs, Using the BUS a and B Inputs

Bus A and B Input Trim

There is no metering after the BUS A and B input TRIM controls. These controls must be adjusted by ear. Start the program source playback for all sources connected to the BUS A or BUS B input. Slowly increase the TRIM control to the center position (12 o'clock), which is unity gain. Then adjust the TRIM control up or down to attain a balance within the total mix.

Using the Digital Signal Processors

The DX8 has five powerful floating-point 32-bit digital signal processors (DSPs) to implement the digital audio processing functions.

Channel 3-Band EQ

Each of the inputs is equipped with a 3-band equalizer. Use this to adjust the overall tonal quality of the input signal.

Note: The channel EQ gain and frequency are adjustable from the PC only.

Output 2-Band Shelving EQ

Each of the outputs is equipped with a 2-band shelving equalizer. Use this to make broad equalization adjustments to the output signals of the DX8. The output EQ gain can be adjusted from the front panel, and the EQ gain and corner frequency can be adjusted from the PC.

The center gain position (0 dB) is indicated when both "0" LEDs are lit on the meter.

Output 31-Band 1/3 Octave Graphic EQ/

5-Band Parametric EQ/Compressor

Each of the outputs is also equipped with a 31- band 1/3 octave graphic EQ. In addition, a 5-band true parametric EQ and a compressor are available on each output.

Note: These functions are adjustable from the PC only.

Software Updates

Check the Mackie website at www.mackie.com for new information and updates to the DX8 software and firmware.

Using Inputs 1-8

Connect the microphones or program sources to Inputs 1-8. Examples of program sources include a CD player, tape deck, tuner, satellite feed, TV audio, jukebox, or other audio source. Each input has a separate Phoenix-type connector for a mic or line- level input.

TRIM

Use the TRIM control to adjust the gain of the input preamp stage according to the level of the input signal. Refer to the "Quick-Start" section (Set the Levels) for instructions on how to set the TRIM controls.

LEVEL

The up/down arrow buttons on each channel are used to adjust the mix level for each channel. Use these to fine tune the mix or relative loudness of each input signal that is connected to the DX8.

When adjusting these buttons, the channel meter indicates the gain of the channel relative to the maximum gain of +10 dB. After 5 seconds, the meter reverts back to indicating the actual input signal level of the channel. This metering is pre-EQ and pre-LEVEL control.

Unity gain is indicated when the –10 and –7 dB LEDs are both lit on the meter (or "U" on-screen).

EQ

Each Input 1-8 has a 3-band EQ. This is adjustable from the PC only. It provides 15 dB of boost or cut with user selectable corner and center frequencies (LO: 20Hz-500Hz; MID: 20Hz-20kHz; HI: 500Hz-20kHz).

Using the BUS A and B Inputs

These inputs provide a direct analog connection to the BUS A and B buses. These input points are post-DSP and post-D/A converter, and accept a balanced analog line-level signal. Use these to connect an additional program source to a zone, or to connect the Zone A and B outputs from another DX8.

TRIM

Use the TRIM control to adjust the signal level at the BUS A and B inputs. Typically, this control would be set to the center detent position (unity gain). However, it can be adjusted up or down by 20 dB to achieve a balance between the signal at the BUS A and B inputs, and the signal on the internal A and B buses.

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