User Manual

5
3 Hookup
3.1 Connections and Controls
StudioLive
™
ARc Series
Owner’s Manual
3 Hookup
3.1 Connections and Controls
3.1.1 Inputs
Microphone Inputs. Your StudioLive ARc-series mixer is equipped with high-gain
XMAX microphone preamplifiers for use with all types of microphones.
48-volt Phantom Power. The StudioLive ARc mixers provide global 48V phantom
power for all microphone inputs.
WARNING: Phantom power is required for condenser microphones but can
severely damage some dynamic mics, especially ribbon mics. Therefore, unless
the manufacturer of your dynamic mics clearly states that phantom power will not
damage them, you should use condenser mics only, with phantom power on, or
dynamic mics only, with phantom power off.
Power User Tip: Dynamic microphones and ribbon microphones are generally
lower-output devices and require no external power source. The most important
thing to note about ribbon microphones is that they very rarely require phantom
power. In fact, unless a ribbon microphone calls specifically for phantom power,
sending phantom power to it can cause severe damage. Condenser microphones
are generally more sensitive than dynamic and ribbon microphones and typically
require external +48V phantom power. Always review your microphone’s
documentation to ascertain the manufacturer’s recommended operating practices.
Line-level Inputs. Each channel of your StudioLive ARc-series mixer has a ¼-inch,
balanced TRS connection for line-level input. Typical examples of line-level
connections are synthesizer outputs, CD/DVD-player outputs, and (with exceptions)
signal-processor inputs and outputs.
Note: As with any mixer, plugging in a microphone or a line-level input device, or
turning phantom power on or off, will create a momentary spike in the audio output
of your StudioLive ARc mixer. Because of this, it is highly recommended that you mute
or turn down the channel trim before changing connections or turning phantom
power on or off. This simple step will add years to life of your audio equipment.
Instrument Inputs. Channels 1 and 2 are equipped with an input that can be
switched between line and instrument. Use these ¼-inch connections for
instruments that don’t have internal preamps (guitar, bass, etc.). See Input Source
button in Section 3.2 for more information.
Power User Tip: Active instruments have an internal preamp and a line-level
output. This type of instrument should be plugged into a line input, rather than
an instrument input. Plugging a line-level source into an instrument input risks
damage to the input and results in a very loud and often distorted audio signal.
Insert (AR16c and AR12c). Channels 1 and 2 on the StudioLive AR16c and AR12c
also have inserts. These unbalanced, ¼-inch connectors can be used to connect
external processors (such as compressors, EQs, de-essers, and filters) to the
channel inputs.