= Mic / Line 2 = Inst / Line µPre ™ INPUTS (BALANC ED) 4 6 8 3 5 7 Aux 3 8 7 Aux 2 6 5 Aux 1 4 3 Main 2 1 OUTPUTS (BA LA NCE D ) K-M I X 8 In 10 O u t Au dio In t er f a ce P ro g ra mma b le Mix er K-MIX USER MANUAL
K-MIX Created by Keith McMillen, Evan Adams, Noah Ambrose, Evan Bogunia, Chuck Carlson, Emmett Corman, Dave Criss, Tom Ferguson, Mauricio Greene, Matt Hettich, David Hishinuma, Sarah Howe, Andrej Hronco, Conner Lacy, Kyle Lobedan, Dan McAnulty, Dennis Saputelli, Dustin Schultz, Chloe Stamper, Maxime Stinnett, Nick Wang, Carson Whitley, Greg Wille, Brian Wright, Stephen Wright, and Nathan Zorndorf. This reference manual was written and designed by Carson Whitley. Version 1.1.0, April 29, 2016.
T ABLE O F C ONTENTS 0. WELCOME ....................................................................................................................................................... 1 1. BEFORE YOU BEGIN ...................................................................................................................................... 2 1.1 What’s In The K-Mix Box? ..................................................................................................................... 3 1.
T ABLE O F C ONTENTS 2.3.6 – To A Computer ...................................................................................................................... 22 2.3.7 – To An iPad ............................................................................................................................. 23 2.3.8 – To MIDI Hardware ................................................................................................................. 25 2.4 – Mixing Audio ......................................
T ABLE O F C ONTENTS 3.8.3 – Bass Management ................................................................................................................ 37 3.9 – Presets............................................................................................................................................... 37 3.9.1 – Onboard Presets ................................................................................................................... 37 3.9.2 – Preset Library & Management ............
T ABLE O F C ONTENTS 4.2.6 – Preset ..................................................................................................................................... 48 4.2.6.1 – Selecting A Preset ..................................................................................................... 48 4.2.6.2 – Saving A Preset.......................................................................................................... 48 4.2.6.3 – Resetting A Preset .........................................
T ABLE O F C ONTENTS 4.2.14.2 – What Do The Controls Do? .................................................................................... 61 4.2.14.3 – [SHIFT] Functionality ............................................................................................... 62 4.2.14.4 – Output Channel Behavior ...................................................................................... 62 4.2.14.5 – Bass Management Crossover .........................................................................
T ABLE O F C ONTENTS 4.2.20.1 – Enabling/Disabling Test Tone ................................................................................ 74 4.2.20.2 – Changing Test Tone Frequency ............................................................................. 74 4.3 – MIDI & K-Mix ..................................................................................................................................... 75 4.3.1 – MIDI Ports .......................................................................
T ABLE O F C ONTENTS 5.1.1.5 – Delete Button ............................................................................................................ 89 5.1.1.6 – Send All Button ......................................................................................................... 90 5.1.1.7 – Receive All Button ..................................................................................................... 90 5.1.1.8 – Setlist ....................................................................
T ABLE O F C ONTENTS 5.2.4.4 – Save Globals Button ............................................................................................. 121 5.2.5 – USB Tab ............................................................................................................................... 122 5.2.5.1 – USB Pre/Post Switches ............................................................................................ 122 5.2.5.2 – Save Globals Button ........................................................
T ABLE O F C ONTENTS 5.4.3.4 – Copy Channel ......................................................................................................... 132 5.4.3.5 – Paste Channel.......................................................................................................... 133 5.4.3.6 – Auto-Populate Setlist .............................................................................................. 133 5.4.3.7 – Reset Preset To Default ...........................................................
W ELCOME WELCOME Hello, and welcome to the world of K-Mix! Taking the time to read this document is a huge step toward becoming a true K-Mix wizard! Put on your robe and wizard hat, wield your staff, and replenish your mana reserves before proceeding further. The purpose of this document is to provide a resource containing helpful information regarding the use of the K-Mix hardware and software.
Before You Begin
B EFORE Y OU B EGIN 1.1 WHAT’S IN THE K-MIX BOX? K-MIX For mixing. MICRO-USB CABLE For connecting K-Mix to a computer or tablet. MINI-USB CABLE For connecting K-Mix to a USB power supply or KMI MIDI Expander. USB POWER SUPPLY + CONVERTER BLADES +5V DC, 1.5A. For powering your K-Mix. Also includes international converter blades. Mixer Interface +5V DC 1.
B EFORE Y OU B EGIN 1.2 WHAT’S IN THE MIDI EXPANDER PACKAGE? MIDI EXPANDER For expanding. USB POWER SUPPLY + CONVERTER BLADES +5V DC, 500 mA Includes power converter blades for non-United States AC sockets. USB CABLE For connecting the Expander to the USB power supply. MINI-USB CABLE For connecting a KMI device to the Expander.
B EFORE Y OU B EGIN 1.3 – SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS 1.3.1 – HARDWARE MAC OS • Mac OS 10.6 (or greater) • Intel Core 2 Duo (or greater) • USB 2.0 (or greater) port WINDOWS • K-Mix is not supported on any Windows operating system. STANDALONE OPERATION • K-Mix • USB power supply (included with K-Mix) • USB cable (included with K-Mix). 1.3.2 – SOFTWARE MAC OS • Mac OS 10.7 or later • Intel Core 2 Duo (or greater) • USB 2.
B EFORE Y OU B EGIN 1.4 – MANUAL CONVENTIONS Here are a few important notes on the formatting of this document: • Links to external websites will appear in underlined, blue text — click on the text to open that web page in your computer’s default web browser. • Links to different sections of the manual will appear in black, bold, underlined text — click on the text to jump to that section of the manual.
Getting Started
G ETTING S TARTED This section covers information that will help you get started with the K-Mix. We will introduce the K-Mix hardware and the MIDI Expander hardware, discuss how to connect your K-Mix to the world, and go over basic operation of the mixer. More in-depth information is available in the K-Mix Hardware and K-Mix Editor sections.
G ETTING S TARTED 2.1 – K-MIX HARDWARE OVERVIEW The K-Mix hardware! 2.1.1 – FRONT PANEL The front panel of K-Mix looks like this: Mixer Interface 2.1.1.1 – FADERS The K-Mix faders are where the most important part of mixing occurs — level adjustment. Depending on the current mode K-Mix is in, the faders are in charge of controlling output levels, input trim levels, aux send levels, and reverb send levels. Underneath faders 1–8 are 12 LEDs (6 green, 3 yellow, 3 red) that provide visual feedback.
G ETTING S TARTED 2.1.1.2 – ROTARIES The K-Mix rotaries handle most of the parameter adjustments that aren’t covered by the faders. These include EQ, compressor, gate, panning, and reverb adjustments. The outer edge of each rotary, underneath the surface, is lined with 16 LEDs. These are used to display the current position of each rotary.
G ETTING S TARTED 2.1.1.5 – DIAMOND PAD The diamond buttons are used to select whether K-Mix is in the “Mix” bank, or one of three available MIDI banks (“1”, “2”, “3”); they can also be used to output MIDI notes and transport control messages. 2.1.1.6 – POWER BUTTON The [ ] is used to turn K-Mix on and off. 2.1.1.7 – MIXER/INTERFACE INDICATOR LEDS Two LEDs below K-Mix’s [ ] button show whether K-Mix is currently powered on or not. If on, these will be illuminated; if off, these will be off. 2.1.1.
G ETTING S TARTED 2.1.2 – BACK PANEL Outputs 1 3 5 Inputs 7 7 Outputs 2 4 6 5 3 2 1 Inputs 8 8 6 4 2.1.2.1 – OUTPUTS This is where all of the audio comes out! Each of the eight outputs provides a balanced, mono audio signal via 1/4” jacks. 2.1.2.2 – INPUTS This is where all of the audio signals you want to mix go in! K-Mix offers eight balanced, mono inputs, and is capable of accepting both XLR (inputs 1 & 2 only) and 1/4” connectors.
G ETTING S TARTED 2.1.2.3 – “AUDIO” MICRO-USB PORT The “Audio” micro-USB port is used for both powering K-Mix and connecting K-Mix to a computer or tablet. When connected to a computer or tablet, K-Mix can act as an audio interface or a MIDI control surface, passing audio and MIDI between the two devices. The connected device will provide power to K-Mix. K-Mix can also be powered from this port by connecting it to a USB power supply. When powered in this manner, K-Mix will operate as a standalone mixer.
G ETTING S TARTED 2.2 – MIDI EXPANDER OVERVIEW The KMI MIDI Expander is an optional accessory that allows K-Mix (and other KMI products) to connect to external MIDI hardware via MIDI cables. Keith McMillen MIDI Expander POWER MIDI In MIDI Out EXPAND (1) MIDI IN MIDI input to the Expander. Incoming MIDI will be passed through the K-Mix and up the USB connection to a connected computer or tablet (if present) — similar to a MIDI interface.
G ETTING S TARTED 2.3 – CONNECTING K-MIX... This section covers how you can connect K-Mix to your audio world. ar = 44100 kr = 4410 ksmps = 10 nchnls = 8 /*-------IVORY-------*/ instr 1 ifreq = cpspch(p5) aglis expseg 1, p8, 1, p3 - p8, p9 k1 k2 k3 a1 line oscil linseg oscil 0, p3, 5 k1, p7, 1 0, p3 * .7, p6, p3 * .3, 0 k3, (ifreq + k2) * aglis, 1 k4 k5 k6 a3 linseg oscil linen oscil 0, p3 * .6, 6, p3 * .4, 0 k4, p7 * .9, 1, 1.4 p6, p3 * .5, p3, p3 * .333 k6, ((ifreq + .009) + k5) * aglis, 9, .
G ETTING S TARTED 2.3.1 – TO POWER K-Mix can be powered in one of two ways: BUS-POWERED VIA COMPUTER The most convenient way to power K-Mix is via USB bus-power from a connected computer, tablet, or other USB host device. 1. Connect a micro-USB cable to K-Mix’s AUDIO port on the back panel. 2. Connect the other end of the micro-USB cable to a powered USB port on a computer. 3. Turn on K-Mix by pressing the [ ] button. It is possible that some devices will not be capable of bus-powering K-Mix on their own.
G ETTING S TARTED STANDALONE POWER VIA USB POWER SUPPLY It is also possible to power K-Mix from a standard AC power outlet using a 5V USB power supply (included with K-Mix). The power supply must be capable of putting out a minimum of 500mA of power to ensure K-Mix will work properly; the power supply that ships with K-Mix can output 1.5A. 1. Connect a mini-USB cable to K-Mix’s CONTROL port on the back panel. 2. Connect the other end of the mini-USB cable to a USB power supply. 3.
G ETTING S TARTED 2.3.2 – TO MICROPHONES Microphones can be connected to inputs 1 and 2 on K-Mix with XLR cables. 1. Connect the female end of an XLR cable to the microphone. 2. Connect the other end of the XLR cable to input 1 or input 2 on K-Mix.
G ETTING S TARTED 2.3.3 – TO LINE LEVEL INSTRUMENTS Line level instruments can be connected to any of K-Mix’s inputs. 1. Connect a 1/4” TS/TRS cable to your instrument. 2. Connect the other end of the cable to any of K-Mix’s eight inputs.
G ETTING S TARTED 2.3.4 – TO INSTRUMENT LEVEL INSTRUMENTS Hi-Z instrument level signals can be connected to inputs 1 and 2 on K-Mix with 1/4” TS/TRS cables. 1. Connect a 1/4” TS/TRS cable to your instrument. 2. Connect the other end of the cable to input 1 or input 2 on K-Mix.
G ETTING S TARTED 2.3.5 – TO PHONO LEVEL DEVICES Phono level signals can be connected to inputs 3–8 on K-Mix. Phono level devices, like turntables, typically have RCA connectors; it is likely you will need RCA to 1/4” TS adapters or and RCA to 1/4” TS cable in order to connect to K-Mix. The following instructions are written as though this is the case. 1. Connect an RCA cable to your phono level device. 2. Connect the other end of the RCA cable to an RCA to 1/4” TS adapter. 3.
G ETTING S TARTED 2.3.6 – TO A COMPUTER K-Mix can be connected to a computer with a micro-USB cable, allowing for audio to pass back and forth between the two devices. 1. Connect a micro-USB cable to K-Mix’s AUDIO port on the back panel. 2. Connect the other end of the micro-USB cable to a powered USB port on a computer.
G ETTING S TARTED 2.3.7 – TO AN IPAD K-Mix can be connected to an iPad with the help of the Apple Lightning to USB Camera Adapter (for iPads with Lightning connectors) or the Apple iPad Camera Connection Kit (for older iPads with 30-pin connectors). Apple does not allow iPads to provide as much power as a standard USB port does, so your K-Mix will also need an external power source to function properly; this can come in the form of a USB power supply or a powered USB hub. WITH USB POWER SUPPLY 1.
G ETTING S TARTED WITH POWERED USB HUB 1. Connect the Lightning to USB Camera Adapter to your iPad. 2. Connect the powered USB hub to a power outlet. 3. Connect the powered USB hub to the Lightning to USB Camera Adapter via USB. 4. Connect the K-Mix’s AUDIO port to the USB hub using a micro-USB cable.
G ETTING S TARTED 2.3.8 – TO MIDI HARDWARE K-Mix can send MIDI to and receive MIDI from external MIDI hardware devices using the optional KMI MIDI Expander (not included with K-Mix). To connect K-Mix to MIDI gear, simply: 1. Connect K-Mix’s CONTROL port to the Expander’s EXPAND port using a mini-USB cable. 2. Connect the Expander’s MIDI IN jack to the MIDI OUT jack on the MIDI hardware device. 3. Connect the Expander’s MIDI OUT jack to the MIDI IN jack on the MIDI hardware device. 4.
G ETTING S TARTED 2.4 – MIXING AUDIO If you want to start mixing as quickly as possible, take your K-Mix out of its box and do the following: 1. Power up K-Mix. 2. Connect your gear to K-Mix’s inputs. 3. Connect your speakers to K-Mix’s main outputs (outputs 1 & 2). 4. Enter “Main” mode by pressing K-Mix’s [MAIN] mode button. 5. Turn up the master fader. 6. Adjust faders 1–8 to taste.
Features Overview
F EATURES O VERVIEW This section is a general overview of the deep feature set offered by K-Mix — what they are, what they do, and what can be adjusted. It does not discuss how these features are controlled, it merely provides a brief introduction. The exact manner in which these features are accessed/adjusted via the K-Mix hardware and the K-Mix Editor will be discussed in the two subsequent sections: K-Mix Hardware and K-Mix Editor. 3.
F EATURES O VERVIEW 3.4 – FLEXIBLE INPUTS K-Mix is ready to accept a wide variety of audio signals. Microphone, line, instrument, and phono level signals will pose no problem. 3.4.1 – MICROPHONE INPUT Inputs 1 and 2 on K-Mix are XLR/TRS combo jacks, allowing for microphones to be connected via XLR connectors, and Hi-Z instrument / line level devices to be connected via 1/4” TRS connectors. 3.4.1.1 – PHANTOM POWER K-Mix provides full phantom power functionality for inputs 1 and 2.
F EATURES O VERVIEW 3.5 – ROBUST OUTPUTS You need outputs? K-Mix has them. K-Mix comes equipped with 10 outputs — 8 balanced 1/4” TRS outputs and one stereo headphone output. Outputs are grouped into stereo output “busses” or “bus pairs” — the main output bus, three aux output bus pairs, and the headphone output bus. 3.5.1 – MAIN OUTPUTS Outputs 1 and 2 are K-Mix’s “main outputs”, or “main output bus”. This is the default stereo pair that audio will go out of when mixing.
F EATURES O VERVIEW Below is a diagram illustrating the signal flow of pre-fader and post-fader sends: AUX PANNING Each aux send level is accompanied by an aux panning parameter. The aux panning parameter sets the left/right panning of the signal going to the selected aux output bus pair. • Audio can be sent out just a single output by panning to the extreme left or right.
F EATURES O VERVIEW 3.6 – ONBOARD DSP K-Mix is equipped with powerful DSP directly onboard — no computer necessary! 3.6.1 – EQ Each of the 8 input channels and the main output bus have their own 3-band, semi-parametric EQ available (low-shelf, mid-band, high-shelf) — similar to a standard channel strip EQ on most mixing consoles. This is extremely useful for sculpting your mix: making sure sounds don’t step on one another, removing troublesome frequencies, or emphasizing certain parts of your sounds.
F EATURES O VERVIEW 3.6.1.1 – LOW-SHELF The EQ’s lower band is a sweepable, dual-pole, low-shelving filter with control over frequency and boost/cut. Center Frequency Low-Shelf EQ Frequency Range: 20Hz-400Hz Boost/Cut: ±18dB 3.6.1.2 – MID-BAND The middle band is fully parametric, with control over frequency, boost/cut, and bandwidth (Q). Mid-Band EQ Frequency Range: 200Hz-6KHz Boost/Cut: ±18dB Q: 0.1-10.
F EATURES O VERVIEW 3.6.1.3 – HIGH-SHELF The high band is a sweepable, dual-pole, high-shelving filter with control over frequency and boost/cut. High-Shelf EQ Center Frequency Frequency Range: 3KHz-20KHz Boost/Cut: ±18dB 3.6.2 – NOISE GATE Each of the 8 input channels and the main output bus have their own noise gate with full control over threshold, gain reduction amount, attack time, and release time. Useful for getting rid of unwanted noise in quiet sections or making your drum tracks tighter.
F EATURES O VERVIEW 3.6.3 – COMPRESSOR Each of the 8 input channels and main output but have their own compressor with full control over threshold, makeup gain amount, compression ratio, attack time, and release time. Useful for evening out vocal performances, getting more sustain out of instruments, or creatively “slamming” your audio. All compressor parameters can be controlled via the mixer hardware or the editor. Ratio Threshold Compressor Threshold: -inf - 0dB Ratio: 1 - 10 Attack: 0.
F EATURES O VERVIEW 3.6.5 – “RUMBLE” FILTER Each of the 8 input channels has an optional high-pass filter at the beginning of the DSP chain. This is intended to be used as a “rumble filter”, removing microphone handling noise or the “thump” that may occur when bumping a turntable. The rumble filters can only be controlled from the K-Mix Editor. 3.7 – STEREO PANNING K-Mix allows you to individually set each channel’s left/right panning for each of the four output bus pairs (Main, Aux 1, Aux 2, Aux 3).
F EATURES O VERVIEW 3.8.3 – BASS MANAGEMENT K-Mix also offers an optional low frequency crossover when working in surround. • When enabled, all low frequency content will be routed out the headphone jack; higher frequency content will go out outputs 1–8 as normal. • When disabled, all audio will be routed out outputs 1–8 as normal. 3.
F EATURES O VERVIEW 3.11 – FADER GROUPS K-Mix’s faders can be “grouped” (or “linked”); when one fader is adjusted, the other faders in the same group follow along. There are four available fader groups on K-Mix. Fader group options may only be accessed through the K-Mix Editor. 3.12 – VU METERING Using the LEDs underneath each fader’s surface, K-Mix is able to display VU meters for a number of different points in the mixer signal flow. Different mixer “modes” will show you different VU meter readings.
K-Mix Hardware 1 = Mic / Line 2 = Inst / Line µPre ™ IN PUTS (B A L A N CE D ) 4 6 8 3 5 7 Aux 3 8 7 Aux 2 6 5 Aux 1 4 3 Main 2 1 OU T P U T S (BALANCED) K-M I X 8 In 10 Out Audio Inter fac e Pro grammable M ixer
K-M IX H ARDWARE This section covers everything related to the K-Mix hardware itself. If you’re looking to learn how the K-Mix hardware can be used to adjust all of the available parameters, look no further. This section also contains other general hardware-specific information. 4.1 – DIAMOND PAD K-Mix’s diamond pad is a multi-purpose control divided into four buttons. It is used for switching between K-Mix’s Mix and MIDI banks, and can also be used for sending transport control messages. 4.1.
K-M IX H ARDWARE 4.2 – K-MIX MODES & MODE BUTTONS K-Mix’s mode buttons are arguably the most important part of operating the K-Mix hardware; they allow you to traverse the vast array of editable features from K-Mix’s compact interface. Mastering the mode buttons is the first step toward K-Mix mastery! This section details the various K-Mix modes and mode buttons — what they do and how you can control the various options for each mode.
K-M IX H ARDWARE 4.2.1 – POWER The [ ] button is used to turn K-Mix on and off. 4.2.1.1 – TURNING K-MIX ON To turn K-Mix on, connect K-Mix to a USB power supply or powered USB port on a computer/tablet/ phone/etc., then press the [ ] button. It will take a few seconds for your K-Mix to completely power on. 4.2.1.2 – TURNING K-MIX OFF To turn K-Mix off, press and hold the [ ] button for 3 seconds. Once 3 seconds have elapsed, K-Mix will begin powering down.
K-M IX H ARDWARE 4.2.3 – BYPASS The [BYPS] button is used to turn effects on and off. This can be done on a per channel basis, or an effect can be bypassed globally (all instances of an effect). This button only has an effect on the compressor, gate, EQ, and reverb functionality. Nothing else has the ability to be bypassed. 4.2.3.1 – BYPASS EFFECTS ON INDIVIDUAL CHANNELS To bypass an effect on an individual channel: 1. Enter the mode for the effect you want to bypass.
K-M IX H ARDWARE 4.2.4 – FINE The [FINE] button is used to turn fine-tuning on and off, allowing for extra precision when adjusting parameters. This essentially “zooms in” on the current rotary and fader positions. 4.2.4.1 – FINE-TUNING THE FADERS To fine-tune a fader parameter, do the following: 1. Press and release the [FINE] button to toggle Fine-Tuning Mode on. The fader LEDs will instantly move to the center of the fader; this represents the original “coarse” value. 2.
K-M IX H ARDWARE effect; it allows for fine-tuning the extra functions that are normally accessed via the [SHIFT] button, like the attack time in Compressor Mode. EXAMPLE USE Here is an example of using [SHIFT] to fine-tune the attack time of a compressor. 1. Enter Compressor Mode by pressing the [COMP] button. 2. Press the [FINE] button to enter fine-tuning mode. 3. Press and hold the [SHIFT] button. Rotaries 1, 2, and 4 will go dark (they don’t control anything while [SHIFT] is held).
K-M IX H ARDWARE 4.2.5 – VU The [VU] button is used to toggle the fader LEDs between displaying VU meters and their actual fader location. 4.2.5.1 – ENABLING & DISABLING VU METERS To enable or disable VU metering: 1. Press the [VU] button to toggle the VU meters on/off. 2. The [VU] button will light up bright when VU metering is enabled, and will be dim when VU metering is disabled. 3. When enabled, the fader LEDs will display VU meters — when disabled, the fader LEDs will display fader position.
K-M IX H ARDWARE • Master fader: Aux output bus levels, post-output fader (Aux 1 = outputs 3 + 4; Aux 2 = outputs 5 + 6; Aux 3 = outputs 7 + 8) TRIMS MODE VU When in Trims mode, enabling VU meters will display the following: • Faders 1–8: Input channel trim levels, post-trim, pre-DSP, pre-fader • Master fader: N/A — no VU metering REVERB MODE VU When in Reverb mode, enabling VU meters will display the following: • Faders 1–8: Input channels 1–8 reverb send levels, post-reverb send • Master fader: Reverb o
K-M IX H ARDWARE 4.2.6 – PRESET The [PRESET] button is used to enter and exit “Preset Selection Mode”. This mode handles selecting, saving, and resetting K-Mix presets. 4.2.6.1 – SELECTING A PRESET Selecting a preset will load that preset’s settings on K-Mix, overwriting the current state of the mixer. To select a preset on K-Mix: 1. Press and release the [PRESET] button. The [PRESET] button and the currently selected preset’s button will light up bright. You are now in Preset Selection Mode. 2.
K-M IX H ARDWARE 4.2.6.3 – RESETTING A PRESET Presets can be reset directly from the K-Mix hardware. Resetting a preset will overwrite one of the 12 available preset slots with K-Mix’s default, “normalled” preset. To reset a preset on K-Mix: 1. Press and release the [PRESET] button. The [PRESET] button and the currently selected preset’s button will light up bright. You are now in Preset Selection Mode. 2. Press and hold the [BYPS] button. 3.
K-M IX H ARDWARE 4.2.7 – MAIN The [MAIN] button on K-Mix is used to enter “Mains Mode”, where you can set the audio levels going to the main outputs, outputs 1 & 2. This is the default mode of K-Mix; when powered on for the first time it will be in this mode. Plug in, turn up the faders, and sound will be going out the mains. 4.2.7.1 – WHAT DO THE CONTROLS DO? FADER BEHAVIOR In Mains Mode, faders 1–8 are used to control the amount of signal being passed to the main output bus for input channels 1–8.
K-M IX H ARDWARE 4.2.7.3 – MUTING CHANNELS Muting audio channels is achieved with use of the [SHIFT] button. 1. Press and hold the [SHIFT] button. 2. Tap the bottom of a fader to mute that channel’s audio. 3. Tap the bottom of that fader again to unmute that channel’s audio. VISUAL FEEDBACK • When a channel is muted its channel select button will turn red and the fader LEDs will turn off to show that it is currently muted.
K-M IX H ARDWARE 3. Tap the top of the same fader to solo the channel. 4. Steps 2 and 3 can also be done in reverse order. VISUAL FEEDBACK When a channel is both muted and soloed, the channel select button will blink yellow. 4.2.7.6 – [SHIFT] FUNCTIONALITY When in Mains Mode, the [SHIFT] button is used for muting and soloing audio channels. • Hold down the [SHIFT] button and tap the bottom of a fader to mute the selected channel.
K-M IX H ARDWARE 4.2.8 – AUX1 The [AUX1] button is used to enter “Aux 1 Mode”; here you can adjust audio send levels to the first pair of auxiliary outputs, outputs 3 & 4. 4.2.8.1 – WHAT DO THE CONTROLS DO? FADER BEHAVIOR In Aux 1 Mode, faders 1–8 are used to control the amount of signal being passed to the Aux 1 output bus (outputs 3 & 4) for input channels 1–8. The master fader is used to control the overall output level of outputs 3 & 4 • Move a fader up to increase that channel’s send level.
K-M IX H ARDWARE By default all aux sends will be set to post-fader. 4.2.8.4 – MUTING IN AUX MODES It is not possible to mute the aux send level of an input channel (faders 1–8), but it is possible to mute the aux output (“Master” fader). To mute the aux output, do the following: 1. Press and hold the [SHIFT] button. The channel select button above the “Master” fader will display the current mute state of the aux output; red = muted, green = unmuted. All other channel select buttons will turn off. 2.
K-M IX H ARDWARE 4.2.11 – COMP The [COMP] button is used to enter K-Mix’s “Compressor Mode” — here you can adjust the compressor settings for each of the eight input channels and the main output bus. 4.2.11.1 – WHAT DO THE CONTROLS DO? FADER BEHAVIOR In Compressor Mode, the K-Mix faders continue to function as though they are in Mains Mode. Faders 1–8 control the level of input channels 1–8 and the master fader controls the level of the main output bus (outputs 1 & 2).
K-M IX H ARDWARE 4.2.11.2 – EDITING COMPRESSOR SETTINGS To edit a channel’s compressor settings, do the following: 1. Press the [COMP] button to go into Compressor Mode. 2. Press one of the channel select buttons to select a channel to edit. The currently selected channel will light up green — all others red. The rotary LEDs will immediately snap to the selected channel’s compressor settings. 3. Adjust any of the four rotaries to adjust the compressor’s settings.
K-M IX H ARDWARE 4.2.12 – GATE The [GATE] button is used to enter K-Mix’s “Gate Mode” — here you can adjust the noise gate settings for each of the eight input channels and the main output bus. 4.2.12.1 – WHAT DO THE CONTROLS DO? FADER BEHAVIOR In Gate Mode, the K-Mix faders continue to function as though they are in Mains Mode [link to section]. Faders 1–8 control the level of input channels 1–8 and the master fader controls the level of the main output bus (outputs 1 & 2).
K-M IX H ARDWARE 3. Adjust any of the four rotaries to adjust the gate settings. 4.2.12.3 – [SHIFT] FUNCTIONALITY In Gate Mode, the [SHIFT] button is only used for muting and soloing channels via the faders, just like in Mains Mode. There are no extra parameters to access via the rotaries.
K-M IX H ARDWARE 4.2.13 – PAN (STEREO) The [PAN] button is used to enter both of K-Mix’s “Pan Modes” — here you can adjust the stereo (left/right) panning settings for each of the eight input channels; it is also possible to pan audio in surround sound. The [PAN] button is different from other K-Mix mode buttons as it can be used to access two separate modes, Stereo Panning Mode and Surround Panning Mode. Both of these panning methods are accessed via the [PAN] button.
K-M IX H ARDWARE • Each input channel has its own pan settings, so channel select buttons 1–8 may be used. • The master channel select button is not used in Stereo Panning Mode; an output bus cannot be panned. The LED color of the channel select buttons is used to display the currently selected channel (or channels). • Green = currently selected • Red = not selected When selected, the rotaries will update to display the selected channel’s pan settings. 4.2.13.
K-M IX H ARDWARE 4.2.14 – PAN (SURROUND) In addition to stereo panning, K-Mix is able to leverage its outputs and rotary controls to spatialize audio in multiple surround sound formats. Surround Panning Mode does not have its own mode button associated with it. Instead, it is enabled and disabled by holding down the [SHIFT] button and pressing the [PAN] button.
K-M IX H ARDWARE Aux 1, Aux 2, Aux 3) simultaneously, not just the main outputs. This is to ensure even output levels when in Surround Panning Mode. ROTARY BEHAVIOR When panning in surround, the rotaries act as four surround panners. These are where you move the audio around in space. • Input channels can be assigned to one of the four rotaries (via the K-Mix Editor); the audio from the assigned channels will follow the rotary’s position in the surround field.
K-M IX H ARDWARE • All three of the Aux modes are completely disabled when panning in surround; the aux channel levels instead link to the Mains level to ensure even output levels across all channels. • Input channel aux sends are ignored when Surround Panning Mode is enabled. • The effects (compressor, gate, EQ) on the main output bus (outputs 1 & 2) are automatically bypassed when surround is enabled. They will return to their original state when you return to stereo panning.
K-M IX H ARDWARE 4.2.14.8 – FUNCTIONAL DIFFERENCES BETWEEN STEREO & SURROUND As detailed in this section, Pan (Surround), and the previous section, Pan (Stereo), there are some significant differences between Stereo Panning Mode and Surround Panning Mode. It is important to know these if you will be occasionally switching between the two modes.
K-M IX H ARDWARE 4.2.15 – EQ The [EQ] button is used to enter K-Mix’s “EQ Mode” — here you can adjust the equalizer settings for each of the eight input channels and the main output bus. 4.2.15.1 – WHAT DO THE CONTROLS DO? FADER BEHAVIOR In EQ Mode, the K-Mix faders continue to function as though they are in Mains Mode. Faders 1–8 control the level of input channels 1–8 and the master fader controls the level of the main output bus (outputs 1 & 2).
K-M IX H ARDWARE 4.2.15.2 – ADJUSTING EQ SETTINGS To edit a channel’s EQ settings, do the following: 1. Press the [EQ] button to go into EQ mode. 2. Press one of the channel select buttons to select a channel to edit. The currently selected channel will light up green — all others are red. The rotary LEDs will immediately snap to the selected channel’s EQ settings. 3. Adjust any of the four rotaries to adjust the EQ settings. 4.2.15.
K-M IX H ARDWARE 4.2.16 – VERB The [VERB] button is used to enter K-Mix’s “Reverb Mode” — here you can adjust the reverb settings for K-Mix’s global reverb send. 4.2.16.1 – WHAT DO THE CONTROLS DO? FADER BEHAVIOR In Reverb Mode, faders 1–8 are used to control the reverb “send level”, the amount of signal being passed into the global reverb effect for input channels 1–8. The master fader is used to control the overall level of the reverb that is mixed in to the main output bus, outputs 1 & 2.
K-M IX H ARDWARE 4.2.16.3 – ADJUSTING REVERB SEND LEVELS To adjust the reverb send levels, do the following: 1. Press the [VERB] button to go into Reverb Mode. 2. Move faders 1–8 up to increase the amount of signal going to the reverb. 3. Move faders 1–8 down to decrease the amount of signal going to the reverb. 4.2.16.4 – PRE/POST SEND SWITCHING To adjust whether the reverb sends are pre-fader or post-fader, do the following: 1. Press the [VERB] button to go into Reverb Mode. 2.
K-M IX H ARDWARE 4.2.17 – TRIM The [TRIM] button is used to enter K-Mix’s “Trim Mode” — here you can adjust the input trim levels for input channels 1–8. 4.2.17.1 – WHAT DO THE CONTROLS DO? FADER BEHAVIOR In Trim Mode, faders 1–8 are used to control the amount of trim (or “gain”) to apply to input signals. • Move a fader up to increase the trim level for that channel. • Move a fader down to decrease the trim level for that channel.
K-M IX H ARDWARE 4.2.18 – +48V The [+48V] button is used to adjust K-Mix’s phantom power settings. Similar to the [BYPS] button, the [+48V] button must be held down while performing any adjustments. 4.2.18.1 – WHAT DO THE CONTROLS DO? FADER BEHAVIOR The faders are not used when the [+48V] button is held down; they will not respond to touch and their LEDs will be off. ROTARY BEHAVIOR The rotaries are not used when the [+48V] button is held down; they will not respond to touch and their LEDs will be off.
K-M IX H ARDWARE VISUAL FEEDBACK In addition to the channel select button LEDs, there are also two blue LEDs above the master channel select button. These show the current on/off state of phantom power for input channels 1 and 2. 4.2.18.3 – SWITCHING PHANTOM POWER VOLTAGE LEVEL To switch the phantom power voltage level between +48V and +15V, do the following: 1. Press and hold the [+48V] button. 2. Press the master channel select button to toggle between +48V and +15V.
K-M IX H ARDWARE 4.2.19 – PHONES The [ ] button is used to enter “Phones Mode” — here you can adjust the headphone output level and the headphone monitoring point. 4.2.19.1 – WHAT DO THE CONTROLS DO? FADER BEHAVIOR In Phones Mode, the master fader is used to adjust the final output level of the stereo headphone output on K-Mix. • Move the fader up to increase the output level. • Move the fader down to decrease the output level.
K-M IX H ARDWARE 4.2.19.3 – CHANGING THE HEADPHONE MONITORING POINT You can set the headphone output to monitor any of the eight input channels or any of the four stereo output bus pairs. MONITORING AN INPUT CHANNEL When monitoring an input channel, the signal will be tapped post-DSP (EQ, Comp, Gate) and prefader. To monitor one of the eight input channels via the headphone output, do the following: 1. Enter Phones Mode by pressing the [ ] button. 2.
K-M IX H ARDWARE 4.2.20 – TEST TONE* K-Mix’s test tone generator does not have its own mode button associated with it. It is instead enabled and disabled by pressing and holding the [SHIFT] + [FINE] + [BYPS] + [VU] buttons for 2 seconds. 4.2.20.1 – ENABLING/DISABLING TEST TONE To enable the test tone, do the following: 1. Press and hold the [SHIFT] button. 2. While the [SHIFT] button is still held down, press and hold the [BYPS], [FINE], and [VU] buttons. 3. Hold all four buttons for two seconds.
K-M IX H ARDWARE 4.3 – MIDI & K-MIX In addition to functioning as both a mixer and audio interface, K-Mix speaks MIDI. K-Mix allows for bidirectional MIDI communication with USB host devices (computer, tablet), and with external MIDI hardware (via the optional KMI MIDI Expander). K-Mix is fully capable of both outputting MIDI to control other devices/ software, and receiving MIDI for control of its own parameters. This section details what you need to know for successful MIDI communication with K-Mix. 4.3.
K-M IX H ARDWARE 4.3.1.3 – PORT 3: K-MIX CONTROL SURFACE The K-Mix Control Surface port is used for receiving MIDI from and sending MIDI to K-Mix’s MIDI banks. This is the port that audio applications should listen to in order to receive MIDI coming directly from K-Mix. • Any MIDI sent to this port from a connected computer will allow you to control the faders, rotaries, and buttons in K-Mix’s MIDI banks.
K-M IX H ARDWARE switches or toggle switches. • Buttons always output MIDI notes. • The specific MIDI note each button outputs, and whether the button is a momentary switch or toggle switch, is set in the K-Mix Editor’s MIDI Tab. • When set to “momentary”, the button will output a MIDI note with a velocity of 127 when pressed, then output a MIDI note with a velocity of 0 when released.
K-M IX H ARDWARE 4.3.3 – EXTERNAL MIDI CONTROL OF MIX BANK The Mix bank parameters on K-Mix are controlled by sending specific MIDI messages to the K-Mix Audio Control port. MIDI sent to the K-Mix Expander or K-Mix Control Surface ports will not do anything related to the Mix bank. When automating K-Mix parameters, MIDI data response can get backlogged if too many messages occur simultaneously.
K-M IX H ARDWARE 4.3.3.2 – INPUT CHANNEL PARAMETERS All input channel parameters are controllable via MIDI, the exceptions being Fader Group, Solo, and Aux Pre/Post switches. As stated in the previous section, 4.3.3.1 – MIDI Channel, each input channel’s MIDI controllable parameters are separated by MIDI channel; sending messages on MIDI channel 1 will control input channel 1, MIDI channel 2 will control input channel 2, and so on.
K-M IX H ARDWARE 4.3.3.3 – MAIN OUTPUT BUS PARAMETERS The main output bus parameters can be controlled via external MIDI in the same way as the input channels; the only difference is there is no panning, aux send levels, or input trim levels (since these do not exist on the mains bus). All main output parameters are controlled via MIDI CC messages sent on MIDI channel 9. The following list details the parameters that may be controlled and the MIDI CCs that are used to control them.
K-M IX H ARDWARE 4.3.3.4 – MISC. PARAMETERS (REVERB/SURROUND/AUXES) All other K-Mix parameters that do not fall under the input channels or main output bus are controlled via MIDI CC messages sent on MIDI channel 10. The following list details the parameters that may be controlled and the MIDI CCs that are used to control them. External MIDI messages for controlling Aux 1–3 output levels and mutes will be ignored when surround panning is enabled; these parameters are not accessible when using surround.
K-M IX H ARDWARE 4.3.4 – EXTERNAL MIDI CONTROL OF MIDI BANKS The MIDI bank parameters on K-Mix are controlled by sending MIDI messages to the K-Mix Control Surface port. MIDI sent to the K-Mix Audio Control or K-Mix Expander ports will not do anything related to the MIDI banks.
K-M IX H ARDWARE the LED state to turn off, thus overtaking the last message that was sent to change the state of the momentary button. A physical press will always take priority over the control messages. 4.3.4.4 – MIDI CONTROL WHEN NOT IN A MIDI BANK All MIDI bank parameters may be controlled via external MIDI regardless of the bank K-Mix is currently in.
K-Mix Editor
K-M IX E DITOR This section covers the use and behaviors of the K-Mix Editor. The K-Mix Editor allows you to edit all mixer parameters in real time (including a few that aren’t available directly from the mixer itself) and manage your preset library. Bi-directional communication between the editor and mixer provides synchronous feedback — changes made in the editor will be reflected immediately on the mixer; changes made on the mixer itself will be reflected immediately in the editor.
K-M IX E DITOR 5.1 – MAIN WINDOW The K-Mix Editor’s main window is where almost all editing activity occurs. ONE EQUALIZER HI Input Trim Thresh GATE 3.24 kHz Freq 0.00 dB Level Ratio MID Rumble Filter Q -70.00 dB -24.00 dB 0.00 dB Attack Release Pan 2 4 Attack 1 3 276 Hz Freq 4 AUX 2 10 ms 5 6 7 8 AUX 1 -4.00 dB -4.00 dB -4.00 dB -4.00 dB -4.00 dB S S S S S S S S M M M M Send Level Pan POST -4.00 dB M 50 ms 50 ms -4.00 dB M AUX 3 SAVE -4.
K-M IX E DITOR 5.1.1 – PRESETS SECTION This is where all of the preset storage, management, and selection happen. 5.1.1.1 – PRESET LIBRARY The Preset Library displays all presets currently saved in the editor. Presets in this library do not have to be loaded on the mixer itself; the library is more so a “pool” of presets to choose from. Up to 999 presets may be stored in the editor’s Preset Library; you are free to load up to 12 of them on the mixer itself.
K-M IX E DITOR CONNECTION SYNC PRESET CONNECTION SYNC is a preset that cannot be modified, reordered, or deleted, and is always at the top of the preset list. It is used to store K-Mix’s current state when the mixer is initially connected to the K-Mix Editor. It is also used when you change presets from the board while connected to the editor. This exists so you don’t lose any unsaved changes you may have made on the mixer before connecting to the editor.
K-M IX E DITOR to indicate that changes have been made. 5.1.1.3 – SAVE AS BUTTON The SAVE AS button is used to save the currently selected preset settings to a new preset slot. When clicked, a dialog box will appear, prompting you to enter a name for the new preset. • This can be cancelled by clicking the CANCEL button. • You can type in a name and click the SAVE AS button to go ahead with the new preset creation.
K-M IX E DITOR 5.1.1.6 – SEND ALL BUTTON The SEND ALL button is used to send all presets in the Setlist down to the mixer. This is essentially a less cumbersome way of clicking every individual SEND button. 5.1.1.7 – RECEIVE ALL BUTTON The RECEIVE ALL button is used to copy all presets currently stored on the connected K-Mix hardware into the editor. Similar to the SEND ALL button, the RECEIVE ALL button is a less cumbersome way of clicking every individual RECEIVE button. 5.1.1.
K-M IX E DITOR • Setting a slot to [OFF] will not delete any preset that may have already been present in the selected slot on the K-Mix hardware. It will remain there unaltered; it is solely the sending/ receiving/syncing that will have been disabled. [DEFAULT] [DEFAULT is the second of two special options available in the setlist drop-down menus. • Selecting [DEFAULT] sets that preset slot to K-Mix’s default preset (a blank or “normalled” preset).
K-M IX E DITOR • You must enter a name for the preset before the save happens. • Once saved, the new preset is added to the Preset Library and the corresponding Setlist slot is switched over to the new preset. COPY INTO SLOT [A–L] The “Copy Into Slot [A–L]” option is more like a normal “Save” behavior. • When this is selected, the preset settings from the mixer will be loaded into whatever preset is currently in the corresponding setlist slot (in the editor).
K-M IX E DITOR 4. Click the RECEIVE button to initiate the preset receiving process. 5. All of the settings from the mixer’s slot D preset are copied to the preset in the editor’s slot D drop-down menu. 6. Setlist slot D’s preset (in the editor) now becomes the currently active/selected preset. 7. The SAVE button lights up magenta (because unsaved changes have now been made to the preset). 8. To keep these changes, click the SAVE button. To abandon these changes, click the REVERT button. 5.1.1.
K-M IX E DITOR 5.1.1.10 – “GLOBAL” PARAMETERS VS. “PER PRESET” PARAMETERS It is important to note that there are two different types of K-Mix parameters: “global” parameters and “per preset” parameters. PRE PRESET PARAMETERS As the name suggests, “per preset” parameters are stored on a per preset basis. • Per preset parameters can differ between presets. • When changing presets, all per preset parameters will update with the values stored in the newly selected preset.
K-M IX E DITOR 5.1.2 – FADER SECTION The Fader Section of the editor houses all of the basic level-related functions of the mixer. This is where fader levels are adjusted, tracks are soloed or muted, and where channels are selected for more in-depth editing. This section is visible at all times so you can always see what your levels are set to. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 -4.00 dB -4.00 dB -4.00 dB -4.00 dB -4.00 dB -4.00 dB -4.00 dB -4.
K-M IX E DITOR PHONES OUTPUT FADER The stereo headphone output has its own fader. • Range: -∞ – +6dB • The headphone output fader is blue. • The headphone output fader controls the final output level of the headphone output. MAIN OUTPUT FADER The main output stereo pair has its own fader. • Range: -∞ – 0dB • The main output fader is blue. • The main output fader controls the final output level of the main output channels (outputs 1 & 2). 5.1.2.
K-M IX E DITOR 5.1.2.4 – SOLO BUTTONS The solo buttons are used to “solo” a channel. • Click a solo button to engage; click it again to disengage. S • An engaged solo button will light up with a yellow background; a disengaged solo will appear with a black background. • When solo is engaged on a channel, only sound from the soloed channel will be audible; any nonsoloed channels will effectively be muted. • It is possible to solo multiple channels at the same time.
K-M IX E DITOR 5.1.3 – MAIN TAB AREA The main tab area is where the more advanced mixing features of K-Mix are located. It is home to all available Channel Strip, Reverb, Surround, MIDI, and USB options. These tabs will be discussed in the next section of the manual, 5.2 – Tabs. ONE Input Trim EQUALIZER HI Thresh 0.00 dB Level MID 224 Hz GATE 3.24 kHz Freq Ratio Q 0.00 dB Send Level -70.00 dB -24.00 dB Attack Release 0.00 dB Attack LOW 3 AUX 2 Send Level 10 ms 0.
K-M IX E DITOR 5.2 – TABS The top of the K-Mix Editor window houses the tab switching buttons. There are five available tabs: Channel Strip, Reverb, Surround, MIDI, and USB. Clicking one of these will display related parameters in the main tab area. 5.2.1 – CHANNEL STRIP TAB The Channel Strip tab houses all of the trims, DSP, and routing options available for each input and output channel, just like on a traditional mixing console.
K-M IX E DITOR INPUT TRIM Input Trim The input trim knob controls the input trim level of the currently selected channel. • Turn clockwise to increase the value; turn counterclockwise to decrease the value. 1.50 dB • A specific value may be entered into the accompanying number box as an alternative way of setting the trim level.
K-M IX E DITOR FADER GROUP Fader Group The Fader Group option allows you to place the currently selected channel’s fader into one of four “groups”. • All faders in the same group will follow each other if any of them are adjusted. 1 2 3 4 • Only fader levels are grouped; all other parameters will stay independent from each other. • To put a fader in a group, simply click on one of the four buttons labelled “1”, “2”, “3”, or “4”; the button will light up white if enabled.
K-M IX E DITOR • Clicking the button will toggle the state of the bypass. • The button will light up blue when enabled (EQ on). • The button will go dark when disabled (EQ bypassed). LOW The EQ’s lower band is a sweepable, dual-pole, low-shelving filter. FREQUENCY KNOB & NUMBER BOX The low frequency knob controls the center frequency of the low-shelf filter. • Turn clockwise to increase the frequency; turn counterclockwise to decrease the frequency.
K-M IX E DITOR • Range: ±18dB Q KNOB & NUMBER BOX The Q knob controls the amount of Q (or “bandwidth”) for the mid-bandpass filter. • Turn clockwise to increase (narrower bandwidth); turn counterclockwise to decrease (wider bandwidth). • A specific value may be entered into the accompanying number box as an alternative way of settings the Q. • Range: 0.1 – 10 HI The EQ’s higher band is a sweepable, dual-pole, high-shelving filter.
K-M IX E DITOR THRESHOLD KNOB & NUMBER BOX The threshold knob controls the volume level at which the compressor will engage. • Turn clockwise to increase (higher threshold); turn counterclockwise to decrease (lower threshold). • A specific value may be entered into the accompanying number box as an alternative way of setting the threshold. • Range: -70dB – +10dB • When the effect is enabled, any audio above the threshold will cause the compressor to engage.
K-M IX E DITOR The release knob controls the release time of the compressor — the amount of time it takes to return to zero gain reduction once the input signal drops below the threshold. • Turn clockwise to increase (longer release); turn counterclockwise to decrease (shorter release). • A specific value may be entered into the accompanying number box as an alternative way of setting the release time.
K-M IX E DITOR gain reduction once the input signal goes below the threshold. • Turn clockwise to increase (longer attack); turn counterclockwise to decrease (shorter attack). • A specific value may be entered into the accompanying number box as an alternative way of setting the attack time. • Range: 1ms – 5000ms RELEASE KNOB & NUMBER BOX The release knob controls the release time of the gate — the amount of time it takes to go back to zero gain reduction once the input signal goes above the threshold.
K-M IX E DITOR ROUTING SECTION The Routing section of the channel strip is where panning and sending audio to the aux outputs are handled. ROUTING MAIN AUX 1 MAINS Send Level The mains (outputs 1 & 2) only have a single parameter in the routing section — panning. Pan Pan POST PAN KNOB The mains pan knob sets the left/right panning of the signal going to the main outputs. • Full left (counterclockwise) sends to just output 1 (output 2 is silent).
K-M IX E DITOR the level going to the aux; the send level fader will be the only level control. • When set to “Post”, the currently selected channel’s volume fader will have an effect on the audio going to the aux. Both the send level fader and the input channel’s volume fader are in control of audio going to the aux. If the send level fader is all the way up, but the volume fader for the selected channel is all the way down (or muted), no audio will be sent to the auxes.
K-M IX E DITOR 5.2.1.2 – AUX OUTPUT CHANNEL STRIP The Aux Output Channel Strips are where parameters related to the aux output busses are located. The panning, send level, and pre/post switch for each input channel is available in the aux channel strips. These parameters are also available in the routing section of the Input Channel Strips, but the aux channel strips allow you to see the settings for all eight input channels simultaneously.
K-M IX E DITOR PRE/POST SWITCHES The aux pre/post switches set whether audio is going to the aux outputs pre-fader or post-fader. The audio is either tapped before or after the input channel’s volume fader. • When set to “Pre”, the currently selected channel’s volume fader will have no effect on the level going to the aux; the send level fader will be the only level control. • When set to “Post”, the currently selected channel’s volume fader will have an effect on the audio going to the aux.
K-M IX E DITOR • Aux 3 = Monitoring outputs 7 & 8 • Ch. 1–8 = Monitoring input channels 1–8 • Discrete Stereo Output = Act as its own output bus (outputs 9 & 10) Click one of the buttons to change the headphones monitoring point. Only one option may be selected at a time. It is not possible to select multiple monitoring points simultaneously. 5.2.1.4 – MAIN OUTPUT CHANNEL STRIP The main output bus (outputs 1 & 2) has its own channel strip.
K-M IX E DITOR REVERB LEVEL SECTION The Reverb Level section houses a single parameter. You guessed it! It’s Reverb Level. REVERB LEVEL & NUMBER BOX Sets the overall level of the reverb to be sent out K-Mix’s main outputs. The reverb gets mixed back into the mains at the end of the signal chain, just before the main output bus’ fader and mute. • Range: -∞dB – +6dB The Reverb Level parameter can also be adjusted from the Reverb tab.
K-M IX E DITOR 5.2.2.1 – BYPASS BUTTON The bypass button enables or disables the reverb effect. • Clicking the button will toggle the state of the bypass. • The button will light up green when enabled (reverb on). • The button will go dark when disabled (reverb bypassed). 5.2.2.2 – CHANNEL SEND LEVELS Sets the amount of signal to send into the reverb. Each input channel has its own send level. SEND LEVEL KNOBS & NUMBER BOXES Sets the reverb send levels for each of the eight input channels.
K-M IX E DITOR 5.2.2.3 – REVERB PARAMETERS This section of the Reverb tab is home to all of the settable options for the reverb effect itself. PREDELAY Adjusts the amount of time between the dry audio and the initial reverb reflections. • Lower values result in more instantaneous reflections. • Higher values result in an audible delay before the reverb begins. • Range: 0.5ms – 250ms DECAY TIME Adjusts the length of the reverb tail. • Lower values create a short reverb decay.
K-M IX E DITOR 5.2.2.4 – REVERB LEVEL The Reverb Level section of the Reverb tab houses a single parameter, the overall reverb level. REVERB LEVEL FADER & NUMBER BOX Sets the overall level of the reverb to be sent out the main outputs (outputs 1 & 2). • The reverb gets mixed back into the mains at the end of the signal chain, just before the main output bus fader and mute. • Range: -∞dB – +6dB The Reverb Level parameter can also be adjusted from the mains channel strip.
K-M IX E DITOR 5.2.3 – SURROUND TAB The Surround tab holds all of the surround panning-related parameters. SURROUND SPEAKER LAYOUT: Quad BASS MANAGEMENT: OFF SAVE GLOBALS 40 Hz 1 2 1 2 1 2 1 2 4 3 4 3 4 3 4 3 CH. 1 CH. 2 CH. 3 CH. 4 CH. 1 CH. 2 CH. 3 CH. 4 CH. 1 CH. 2 CH. 3 CH. 4 CH. 1 CH. 2 CH. 3 CH. 4 CH. 5 CH. 6 CH. 7 CH. 8 CH. 5 CH. 6 CH. 7 CH. 8 CH. 5 CH. 6 CH. 7 CH. 8 CH. 5 CH. 6 CH. 7 CH. 8 5.2.3.
K-M IX E DITOR 5.2.3.2 – SPEAKER LAYOUT SELECTOR Quad Selects the surround speaker format that will be used to output audio when surround panning is enabled. The surround modes offered are as follows: QUAD OCTAGON -22.5º -45º 1 2 1 45º -67.5º 2 7.1 0º -30º 1 8 3 7 4 -112.5 4 5.1 22.5º 2 0º 3 30º 1 5 112.5 135º 6 -157.5 SUB (BASS MANAGEMENT MUST BE ENABLED) 5 30º 3 67.5º 4 -110º 7 110º 3 -135º 2 -30º 4 -110º 110º 6 -150º 157.
K-M IX E DITOR CROSSOVER FREQUENCY Sets the center frequency of the crossover. • Audio below the crossover frequency will be routed out the headphone jack. • Audio above the crossover frequency will be routed out outputs 1–8 as normal. • Range: 40Hz – 160Hz These are editor-only parameters. They may not be adjusted from the mixer. 5.2.3.4 – SURROUND PANNERS 1 2 4 3 The surround panners are used to spatialize/move sounds between speakers in the selected surround sound format.
K-M IX E DITOR 5.2.3.6 – SAVE GLOBALS BUTTON SAVE GLOBALS Used to save the current state of all global settings to the K-Mix hardware’s internal memory. Any changes made in the editor to “global” parameters (parameters that are not stored on a per preset basis) will be immediately reflected and heard on the connected mixer, but they will not be stored in its internal memory. If power is lost and the K-Mix is turned on again, all changes will be lost; it will boot up with its last saved state.
K-M IX E DITOR 5.2.4.2 – MIDI PARAMETERS SECTION Displays and sets the editable MIDI parameters for the currently selected fader/button/rotary. • Each sensor can be set to output a different MIDI message for each of the three available MIDI banks. • Duplicate MIDI messages are not allowed. Sensors may not be set with the same CC/Note and MIDI channel.
K-M IX E DITOR TOGGLE/MOMENTARY SWITCH Sets whether the currently selected button behaves as a momentary or toggle button. ROTARIES Each of the K-Mix rotaries can output a CC message when in one of the three available MIDI banks. ROTARY 1 • The rotaries can be set to output any MIDI CC from 0–127. BANK 1 CC# Sets the CC number the currently selected rotary will send when in bank 1.
K-M IX E DITOR 5.2.5 – USB TAB This tab is where all of K-Mix’s USB-related options are housed. All USB options are editor-only parameters. They may not be adjusted from the mixer. USB ROUTING SAVE GLOBALS USB INPUT (Mixer Audio to Computer) CH. 1 CH. 2 CH. 3 CH. 4 CH. 5 CH. 6 CH. 7 CH. 8 PRE PRE PRE PRE PRE PRE PRE PRE USB OUTPUT (Computer Audio to Mixer) CH. 1 CH. 2 CH. 3 CH. 4 CH. 5 CH. 6 CH. 7 CH. 8 POST POST POST POST POST POST POST POST 5.2.5.
K-M IX E DITOR The exact audio tap points can be found in the K-Mix Signal Flow Diagram. USB OUTPUT (COMPUTER AUDIO TO MIXER) Input channels 1–8 each have their own “USB Output” pre/post switch. The output pre/post switch sets where audio going out to the mixer (from a USB connected computer) gets inserted into the K-Mix’s signal path. • Pre = Beginning of the signal path, just before the DSP effects. This allows you to send computer audio through K-Mix’s channel strip effects.
K-M IX E DITOR 5.3 – PREFERENCES SAVE GLOBALS AUDIO SETTINGS HARDWARE SETTINGS PHANTOM POWER Input Limiter Ch #1 Phantom Ch #2 Phantom Backlighting EDITOR SETTINGS Editor + Mixer View Linking Reset Receive Preset Behavior Phantom Voltage Pass Thru LINE/PHONO SWITCHES LED Brightness Tone Generator The K-Mix Editor’s Preferences window contains lesser used options pertaining to the behavior of K-Mix’s audio, the K-Mix hardware, and the K-Mix Editor.
K-M IX E DITOR 5.3.1.3 – PHANTOM VOLTAGE Sets whether the phantom power provided on channels 1 and 2 is operating at +12V or +48V. • +12V = Phantom power is providing +12V when enabled • +48V = Phantom power is providing +48V when enabled 5.3.1.4 – CHANNELS 3–8 LINE/PHONO SWITCHES Sets whether channels 3–8 are expecting line level or phono level signals.
K-M IX E DITOR 5.3.2 – HARDWARE SETTINGS The Hardware Settings section of the Preferences window contains options related to the behavior of the K-Mix hardware itself. HARDWARE SETTINGS 5.3.2.1 – INPUT LIMITER ON/OFF* Input Limiter Enables or disables the input protection limiter, a limiter circuit designed to prevent overloading K-Mix’s ADCs. This switch is global for all inputs; you cannot enable/disable this for specific input channels.
K-M IX E DITOR • Higher values = brighter LEDs • Lower values = dimmer LEDs 5.3.2.5 – TONE GENERATOR* Two controls for the K-Mix’s tone generator are provided in the editor: ON/OFF SWITCH Turns K-Mix’s test tone generator on or off. • Click to toggle the test tone on/off. FREQUENCY NUMBER BOX Sets the test tone’s frequency. • Range: 40Hz – 4000Hz * Available in a future update.
K-M IX E DITOR 5.3.3 – EDITOR SETTINGS The Editor Settings section of the Preferences window contains options related to the behavior of the K-Mix Editor. EDITOR SETTINGS Reset Receive Preset Behavior 5.3.3.1 – RESET RECEIVE PRESET BEHAVIOR If you checked the option to “Remember Decision” in the pop-up dialog when receiving a preset from K-Mix, clicking this button will reset that. The next time you receive a preset from K-Mix you will again be presented with the pop-up dialog.
K-M IX E DITOR internal memory. If power is lost and the K-Mix is turned on again, all changes will be lost; it will boot up with its last saved state. When you have found settings you would like to keep, it is wise to use the Save Globals button to make sure your global settings are not forgotten. The other method to make sure your global settings are remembered between power cycles is to power down your K-Mix by holding down the [ ] for three seconds.
K-M IX E DITOR 5.4 – MENU BAR OPTIONS These are options/actions available via the menu bar at the top of the screen. 5.4.1 – K-MIX EDITOR The K-Mix Editor menu has the following options: K-Mix Editor About K-Board Editor 5.4.1.1 – ABOUT K-MIX EDITOR Preferences... Displays an About screen for the K-Mix and K-Mix Editor. Services EXPECTED FW Displays the firmware version that is included in the editor.
K-M IX E DITOR 5.4.2 – FILE The File menu contains the following options: File Export Preset Export All Presets 5.4.2.1 – EXPORT PRESET Import Preset Allows for exporting the currently selected preset as a file. Import Global Mappings Export Global Mappings • Each preset in the Preset List will be available in the Export Preset submenu. • Select any preset in the list to export it as a file. • The preset is saved with the “.kmixpreset” file extension. 5.4.2.
K-M IX E DITOR 5.4.2.5 – IMPORT GLOBAL MAPPINGS Imports a .kmixglobalmap file to the editor. • After selecting a file, the editor’s current MIDI, Surround, USB, and Preferences settings will be replaced by the settings specified in the .kmixglobalmap file. • Importing global mappings while a K-Mix is connected to the editor will also update the MIDI, Surround, USB, and Preferences settings on the mixer itself.
K-M IX E DITOR • When multiple channels are selected simultaneously, the Copy Channel function will copy whatever the last selected channel was (the one displayed in the Channel Strip view). • Input trims are not included when copying/pasting channel strip settings. This is due to the differing trim ranges between channels 1–2 and channels 3–8. Auxes, Phones, and Mains cannot be copied or pasted. 5.4.3.5 – PASTE CHANNEL Pastes copied channel strip settings to the currently selected channel or channels.
K-M IX E DITOR 5.4.4 – HARDWARE The Hardware menu contains the following options: 5.4.4.1 – FORCE FIRMWARE UPDATE Force Firmware Update This option allows for manually initiating a firmware update for the connected K-Mix. Once selected, you will be asked to confirm that you would indeed like to update the firmware on your K-Mix. • Select “OK” to proceed with the firmware update. The process will automatically commence. • Select “Cancel” to cancel the firmware update. 5.4.
K-M IX E DITOR 5.5 – FIRMWARE UPDATING Each version of the K-Mix Editor is compatible with a specific version of K-Mix firmware. Occasionally, new features in a K-Mix Editor update will require a firmware update to your K-Mix before the two can properly function together. If the firmware on your K-Mix is not compatible with the K-Mix Editor currently in use, you will need to update the firmware before you can use the editor.
Appendix
A PPENDIX 6.1 – K-MIX TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS AUDIO MIC PREAMPS I NPUT C HANNELS • 8 Balanced Inputs • Signals up to +28dBu N UMBER • 2 µPre™ mic pres O UTPUT C HANNELS • 10 Outputs (8 balanced) P HANTOM P OWER • +48V or +12V phantom power B IT D EPTH • 24-bit AKM Converters • 110dB dynamic range G AIN • +60db additional gain S AMPLE R ATE • 44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz, 96kHz I NTERNAL L ATENCY • ~2.5ms @ 96kHz • ~2.75ms @ 88.2kHz • ~5ms @ 48kHz • ~5.5ms @ 44.
A PPENDIX 6.2 – SIGNAL FLOW BLOCK DIAGRAM The K-Mix signal flow block diagram is too large to properly fit on a standard sized page. As such, the signal flow diagram is provided as a separate PDF document. The PDF is included in the K-Mix Editor package and can also be downloaded directly from the KMI website at this link here: http://www.keithmcmillen.
A PPENDIX 6.3 – DEFAULT MIDI OUTPUT VALUES Below is a diagram detailing the exact MIDI messages K-Mix is set to output by default. It is a very simple mapping, all faders and rotaries (pink in the image below) output a CC message, while all buttons (blue in the image below) output a MIDI note. Each MIDI bank is set up with the same CC and note messages, but each is set to transmit on a different MIDI channel.
A PPENDIX 6.4 – MIDI NOTE NAMING REFERENCE MIDI notes are represented by numbers between 0–127, while music notes are lettered A through G# (in traditional Western notation) — there must be a way to convert between the two. There are actually multiple standards for naming MIDI note numbers, which can make things tricky. KMI follows the C3 = 60 standard for naming/numbering notes.
Troubleshooting
T ROUBLESHOOTING 7.1 – AN IMPORTANT NOTE ABOUT USB CABLES We always recommend using the USB cables that shipped with your K-Mix. These cables were created to ensure they meet the specs required for proper K-Mix operation. Sadly, not all USB cables are created equal. If you are having troubles powering your K-Mix or connecting to a computer, please make sure you are using the USB cables that came with your K-Mix.
T ROUBLESHOOTING If you’re using K-Mix’s audio interface capabilities to send audio to/from a computer, all audio travelling over USB will stop while the disconnect occurs. The audio device will briefly disappear from your DAW or other audio software, which could cause issues; you may have to restart your DAW to get things back in working order. It’s possible that there may be other computers that exhibit this issue, but we have only encountered it when using Mac Minis.
T ROUBLESHOOTING 4. Name your new configuration when prompted. The name does not have to be anything specific. 5. Click OK. Any devices that were connected but not listed should now appear. 7.6 – K-MIX APPEARING AS “USB MIDI DEVICE” K-Mix will show up as “USB MIDI Device” when connected to some computers running Mac OS 10.9 (Mavericks). It’s possible this also happen on other versions of Mac OS, but so far we have only experienced this issue with 10.9 systems.
F.A.Q.
F.A.Q. DO I NEED A COMPUTER TO USE K-MIX? No, K-Mix can function as a completely standalone mixer. All EQs, compressors, noise gates, reverb, etc. live on the board. Just power up K-Mix via a USB power supply and you’re good to go! Please note that while most parameters can be accessed directly from the K-Mix hardware, there are some parameters that can only be accessed via the K-Mix Editor software, which does require connection to a computer to function.
F.A.Q. CAN I PLUG TURNTABLES DIRECTLY INTO MY K-MIX? Yes. Inputs 3–8 are capable of accepting phono level signals (in addition to line level signals). You will likely need to adjust the line/phono switches and set them to “Phono” (this can only be done via the K-Mix Editor); by default they are set to Line. Once the inputs you want to plug turntables into have been set to accept phono level signals simply plug in your turntables and turn up the K-Mix faders.
F.A.Q. CONNECTING K-MIX The first part of the process is hooking up your K-Mix to your computer and powering them up. 1. Connect the Audio USB port on K-Mix #1 to an available USB port on your computer using a microUSB cable. I recommend using the cable that shipped with your K-Mix as it was created to ensure it meets the specs required for proper K-Mix operation. Sadly, not all USB cables are created equal. 2. Power up K-Mix #1 by pressing its power button. 3.
Safety Precautions
S AFETY P RECAUTIONS MEDICAL DEVICES K-Mix may emit electromagnetic fields. These electromagnetic fields may interfere with pacemakers or other medical devices. If you wear a pacemaker, maintain at least 6 inches (approximately 15cm) of separation between your pacemaker and K-Mix. If you suspect K-Mix is interfering with your pacemaker or any other medical device, stop using K-Mix and consult your physician for information specific to your medical device.
