Filter
Top Products
Chapter 1 - Setting Up
10 Q20 Reference Manual
Interfacing to a Mixing Console
The Q20 handles mono or stereo sends at all system levels. The input circuitry of the
Q20 can easily handle +4 dBu levels (+17.5 dBu peaks), while having enough input
and output gain to interface with the lower -10 dBV signal levels of many recording
systems.
The Q20 may be connected to a mixing console in several ways. Usually, it is
connected to the auxiliary send and return controls of the mixer. Another method of
interfacing is to connect the unit directly to the insert send and return patch points
of the channel that is to be effected. Still another way of interfacing the Q20 to a
mixer or recording console would be in-line across the output of your mixing console.
This last setup would be used only if you needed to effect the entire mix.
Using the Aux Sends
Generally, mixing consoles provide two types of auxiliary sends: pre-fader sends for
creating a cue (headphone) mix, and individual, post-fader effect sends. Typically,
if a mixer has more than two sends per channel (4, 6 or 8, perhaps), the first two
sends are reserved for the cue sends, while the remaining sends are used to feed
effects. If you are using a mixer with more than two sends, connect the Q20 using
post-fader sends.
Using a mixerÕs aux sends poses a distinct advantage: each channel has its own
level control feeding the aux output (and eventually the Q20 input). This allows
you to make a mix of any channels you want to go to the effects by using the
individual channelsÕ aux send levels on the mixer. Most consoles also have aux
master controls, which set the overall level of each aux output.
Coming back from the Q20Õs outputs into the mixer, you have two options:
¥ connecting to dedicated return inputs, or
¥ connecting to channel inputs.
The former is good if your mixer provides dedicated inputs (called returns) for effect
devices like the Q20. If your mixer does not have these, or you have already used
them all, consider connecting the Q20 to channel inputs or unused tape returns. You
may also want to take advantage of better EQ, panning or automation options on
your consoleÕs channel inputs.