QSC Audio CMX 500V, CMX 800V, CMX 300V user manual Features and setup, Back Panel, Clip Limiter

Back Panel

1.Barrier strip input

2.XLR inputs, Channels 1 and 2

3.Configuration dip switches

4.TRS inputs, Channels 1 & 2

5.Fan

6.Speakon™ output, Channel 1 and 2

7.Terminal block connector outputs, Channels 1 and 2

8.Circuit Breaker

9.Serial number label

10.Configuration switch chart

11.IEC power inlet (power cord connector)

1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	11
					– Figure 2 –

Features and setup

Clip Limiter

What it is

When the audio signal drives the amplifier's output circuit beyond its power capability, it clips, flattening the peaks of the waveform. The clip limiter detects this and reduces the gain to minimize the amount of overdrive. To preserve as much of the program dynamics as possible, limiting reduces the average program level until peaks barely clip.

Each channel has its own clip limiter, and you can switch it on or off independently, as shown in (Figure 3).

When to use it (or not)

When driving full-range speakers, clip limiting reduces high-frequency distortion caused by bass overloads. It also protects higher frequency drivers from excess overdrive and harsh clipping harmonics.

When driving subwoofers, some users let the amplifier clip without limiting because it gives extra “punch” to kick drums and similar sounds.

CAUTION: In bi-amp systems, excessive limiting will affect the frequency balance.

– Figure 3 –

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