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23
Setting the Correct Gain
Structure
You’re now ready to establish the correct gain structure—the key to
getting the best performance from the MIXPAD, or from any mixer, for
that matter. This is a simple procedure that ensures optimum input and
output levels so that no unnecessary noise (caused by too low a signal)
or overload distortion (caused by too high a signal) is created. Here’s a
step-by-step description of how to do so:
a. With all connections made (as described above) but with the power
amplifier and MIXPAD powered
off
, set the power amplifier volume to
minimum. On the MIXPAD, turn all channel Trim and Level controls fully
counterclockwise, and set the Main Level control to its “0” position.
b. If you are using a MIXPAD 4 and either or both connected
microphones require 18 volts phantom power, press in the corresponding
phantom power switch.
c. Set all channel equalizer and pan/balance knobs to their center
detented “0” positions.
d. Set all channel Aux send knobs and all Aux return level knobs fully
counterclockwise.
e. Turn on all devices connected to channel line inputs and Aux returns
and set their level controls to unity gain or, if there is no unity gain indi-
cated on their output control, to maximum. If you’ve got effects proces-
sors connected to Aux returns, make sure they are sending completely
“wet” (processed) signal, with no “dry” (unprocessed) signal mixed in.
f. Press the MIXPAD Power switch in order to turn the unit on. Finally,
turn on the power amplifier and set it to a moderate listening level.
g. Play an instrument connected to one of the MIXPAD’s line inputs*
and, while doing so, slowly raise the corresponding channel Level control
to the 2 o’clock “0” position (for most line-level signals, the Trim control
should remain fully counterclockwise). Listen for signs of any distortion.
If you hear any, you may need to lower the output level of the instrument,
though this will rarely occur. Conversely, if the signal is too low,
something’s wrong: in all likelihood, the connecting audio cable is faulty.
* If you’re using an instrument such as electric guitar or bass, we
recommend that you connect it to the MIXPAD with a direct injection box
to ensure correct impedance.