X2 X2 manual Interfacing to a Professional +4 dBu Multitrack Recorder

Models: X2

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Connecting the X2

Interfacing to a Professional +4 dBu Multitrack Recorder

Professional recorders typically feature 3-pin XLR connectors on their inputs and outputs. The nominal signal level of these units is +4 dBu (1.23 volts). Depending on the model of recorder, these inputs and outputs may be balanced, servo-balanced (which automatically compensate if one side of the input is grounded), or unbalanced. Check the manual of the recorder to find out the true specification for the inputs and outputs.

The best method for connecting this type of recorder is to purchase an ELCO-to- XLR multipair cable, available from many different cable manufacturers. This will connect from the ELCO-type connector on the X2 on one end, fanning out to sixteen XLRs (eight female, eight male) on the other end. This method assure full-balanced inputs and outputs, with no level compensation needed as long as the recorder itself is truly balanced.

Alternatively, in a short-term situation you may use the 1/4" TAPE IN and TAPE OUT jacks on each channel. In this case, you need:

An XLR female to 1/4" TRS cable for each output of the tape recorder; and,

An XLR male to 1/4" mono cable for each send to the tape recorder.

This arrangement will give you a balanced connection on the monitor, but an unbalanced send from the X2 to the deck. Depending on the characteristics of the deck, metering levels may not match between the deck and the X2, or on the X2 between Tape Send and Tape Return meter modes (to change the meter mode, see page 39).

You may need to increase the X2’s fader level in order to get enough level on the multitrack’s meters. Some multitracks have high/low level input switches; follow the manufacturer’s instructions on settings these properly if you can’t get enough output from the X2’s 1/4" TAPE OUT jacks. If that is not possible, you will need to use the ELCO connectors instead of the 1/4" jacks.

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X2 Reference Manual

Page 33
Image 33
X2 X2 manual Interfacing to a Professional +4 dBu Multitrack Recorder