LiLo 16 Channel Line Mixer 24 Channel Line Mixer Reference Manual speck electronics
ii Warranty Speck Electronics products are warranted to the original owner to be free of defects in material or workmanship. This warranty does not apply to any product subject to accident, misuse, neglect or failure to comply with normal maintenance procedures or if the serial number has been defaced, altered, or removed; nor will Speck Electronics accept responsibility for damages resulting from improper installation, alteration or unauthorized parts or repairs.
iii Contents Chapter 1 Introduction General ................................................................................. 1 Unpacking and inspection .................................................... 1 Repacking ............................................................................ 1 Standard Accessories............................................................. 2 Operator safety summary ..................................................... 2 LiLo general description .........................
Chapter 1 Introduction Section 1 Introduction General Thank you for purchasing our LiLo Mixer. The LiLo has operational features that are easy to understand and you should be up and running in no time. If you are unfamiliar with audio equipment or audio signal flow, it is recommended that you read this manual. If you have any questions regarding the LiLo or any Speck product, do not hesitate to contact Speck Electronics. Speck Electronics 341 E.
Chapter 1 Introduction Section Standard Accessories Operator Safety Summary 2 The LiLo is supplied with the following list of accessories: - External regulated power supply: Model PS5-3 for LiLo-16 Model PS5-5 for LiLo-24 - DC Power supply cable (10 foot, 7 conductor) - AC Power cord (NA version only) - Operations Manual This product and its power supply are intended to operate from a single phase AC power source that does not apply more than 240 Volts RMS between the supply conductors or between eithe
Chapter 1 Introduction Section LiLo Features 3 The LiLo is a modular mixer design with 16 or 24 input channels and a master module fit into a solid frame. All inputs, outputs, and bussing are fully balanced with transformers on the mix and group outputs. All input channels have secondary configuration switches as well as configuration jumpers on the circuit board. Each input module is designed with plug-in preamp PC boards for Line-A, Line-B, and direct out.
Chapter 1 Introduction Section Dual Path Signal Routing Feature 4 An important benefit of the LiLo is the ability to mix 32 line signals in “real time” from the standard 16 channel mixer (or 48 with the 24 channel LiLo). You could, for example, have the 16 outputs from D/A converters (Protools, Radar, etc.) connected to the 16 "Line-B's" and at the same time the "LineA's" can be used for 16 other line signals such as mic preamps, samplers, or additional outputs from D/A converters...
Chapter 1 Introduction Section 5 Dimensions 9.99" [253.7] 8.59" [218.2] 28.07" [712.9] 28.57" [725.6] 3.56" [90.3] 17.00" [431.8] 18.29" [464.6] 7.08" [179.7] 1.91" [48.5] 5.50" [139.7] 2.93" [74.5] 2.34" [59.4] Figure 4. Power supply dimensions 10.05" [255.3] 6.68" [169.5] 3.74" [95.0] 24.55" [623.6] Figure 3.
Chapter 1 Introduction Section 6 Specifications Line input impedance Line-A and Line-B Insert returns 2T, DAW, and Aux returns 15K ohms 30K ohms 20K ohms Maximum input level Line A Line B Channel insert return Mix insert return +28dBu +28dBu +28dBu +28dBu Output Impedance All Active-balanced outputs All transformer-balanced outputs 60 ohms 600 ohms Maximum output level (2k load) All Active-balanced outputs All transformer-balanced outputs +28dBu (Balanced) +24dBu (Balanced) Frequency Response (12
Figure 5. Input Channel signal Flow DIRECT OUT (LINE C) RTN CHANNEL INSERT SEND LINE B LINE A SWITCH LEGEND LINE AMP MODULE PLUG ACTIVATES RELAY LINE INPUT MODULE TRIM B LINE INPUT MODULE TRIM A (ACCESSABLE VIA TOP PANEL HOLES) CONFIGURATION SWITCH LOGIC CONTROL SIGNAL UNBALANCED SIGNAL BALANCED SIGNAL RELAY AUX 4 AUX 2 NORMAL LINE B LINE A LINE-B LINE-A DIRECT OUT CONFIG. JUMPER RELAY PLUG-IN MODULE INPUT SELECT O INSERT LINE-B A/B SELECT RELAY GROUP SWITCH CONFIG.
Figure 6. Master Module Signal Flow AUX BUS 2 TRK INPUTS DAW INPUTS AUX RTN INPUTS R L R L R L AUX SEND SWITCH SOLO BUS UNBALANCED SIGNAL S SOLO LEVEL 2 TRK LEVEL DAW LEVEL Typical of 2 PAN GRP 2 GRP 1 RIGHT LEFT GRP 1-2 MIX SOLO MI X DA W 2.T .
Chapter 2 Installation & Setup 9 Installation & Setup General The following information should give you the basics on how to install the LiLo mixer and power supply. The proper installation of the LiLo requires a clear understanding of audio wiring, AC distribution, grounding, and shielding techniques. If the LiLo is being installed into a larger studio or as a sidecar/expander to a host console, it may be necessary to retain the services of someone experienced in these matters.
Chapter 2 Installation & Setup 10 In the unlikely event that a fuse blows, it is EXTREMELY important that a fuse of the same type and current rating be replaced. The chart below in Figure 7 lists the fuse current ratings to be used for your countries mains voltage. All fuses are 20mm x 5mm slow blow type. 100 VAC 5 Amp Fuse Chart for PS5-3 Power Supply 120 VAC 220 VAC 230 VAC 5 Amp 3 Amp 3 Amp 240 VAC 3 Amp Figure 7.
Chapter 2 Installation & Setup 11 Due to the high performance of the LiLo, it is recommended that you use only the highest quality audio cable. A high quality cable by definition is a cable that provides good mechanical strength, high microphonic noise immunity, high frequency response, low crosstalk, and 100% shielding ability. All audio cable used with the LiLo should be a 3 conductor foil shield type (2 inner conductors and a shield drain conductor).
Chapter 2 Installation & Setup Cleaning 12 The module and chassis are a high quality painted surface and the panel lettering is applied using a silkscreen printing technique. To clean the top or rear panel, wipe the surface gently using a soft lint-free cloth to avoid scratching the panel or markings. Paper towels are not recommended.
Chapter 3 Operation Section Mixer Operation Overview In this section we hope to give you basic information on the operation of the LiLo and adequately describe its controls, switches, and connectors. The information in this section of the manual is intended to help with the technical process when using your LiLo. Words alone could not adequately describe how to adjust the controls for every situation you might encounter with the Lilo.
Chapter 3 Operation Section Input Channel Signal Flow Diagram 14 Use this input channel signal flow diagram shown below in Figure 8 as a reference when reading the descriptions of the controls, switches, and connectors [1] through [24] in this chapter.
Chapter 3 Operation Section 15 Input Channel 1. Line Input Select The Lilo has separate line amp modules for each input as well as separate trim controls. This switch selects the Line-A or Line-B line amp module. Two yellow LED's display the 3 status of the switch. 2 2. Line-A Gain Trim This control provides up to 12dB of gain for the Line-A input. The factory setting is fully counter-clockwise (0 dB). A small flat blade screwdriver can be used to adjust this pot. 3. Line-B Gain 4. Insert Select 5.
Chapter 3 Operation Section 10. Mix Assign 11. Group Assigns 12. Group Select The Mix Assign switch, in conjunction with the Pan control, allows an input channel to be mixed to the left/right main output. The GRP 1 and GRP 2 pushbutton switches allow an input channel to be assigned and mixed to the two individual subgroups.
Chapter 3 Operation Section 17 Aux Sends Each input channel has four aux sends that can be switched pre or post the faders. The Pre/Post functions can be configured to accommodate different mixing applications. 16. Aux Sends 1&2 17. Aux Post/Pre Select Adjusts the level to the Aux busses 1 and 2. Aux 2 can be configured to send a signal to the direct output. (See jumper configuration Figure 9b on Page 19) This switch selects the source of Aux Sends 1 & 2.
Chapter 3 Operation Section 18 Input Channel I/O Connectors Each of the input channels has a balanced XLR Line-A input connector, balanced XLR and TRS connectors for Line-B, balanced ¼" TRS connectors for the Inserts, and a balanced ¼" TRS Direct Out. The pin configuration for all XLR connectors is: Pin 1=Ground, Pin 2=High (+), Pin 3=Low (-) The pin configuration for all ¼" TRS jacks is: Tip=High (+), Ring=Low (-), Sleeve=Ground 21.
Operation Section 19 Note - All active-balanced output circuits of the LiLo were designed for balanced lines and should only be connected to balanced inputs. If that is not possible and it is necessary to connect to an unbalanced input, care must be taken not to connect the low (-) terminal to ground. If the low (-) terminal of these outputs is connected to ground, the result will be a high level of audio distortion.
Operation Section Master Module Signal Flow Diagram 20 Use the master section signal flow diagram shown below in Figure 10 as a reference when reading the descriptions of the controls, switches, and connectors [25] through [54] in this chapter.
Chapter 3 Operation Section 21 Master Module 25. Stereo Master This 100mm dual slider is the master volume to the transformer balanced mix outputs. The VU meters will display any adjustment to this Stereo Master control when the Meter Select switch is set to the "Mix L-R" position. Under normal operating conditions the fader should always be set at maximum. If it has to be pulled down a significant distance it indicates that the levels at the input channels are too high and should be reduced. 26.
Chapter 3 Operation Section 29. DAW Return Level This trim pot adjusts the level of any external stereo source connected to the DAW returns on the rear panel. This could be the stereo mix of a DAW or any other stereo source. This return is selected with the DAW, or the Mix+DAW Monitor Source Select switch. 22 32 33 The factory setting for this pot is about the 2 o'clock position. A small flat blade screwdriver can be used to adjust this pot. 30. 2 Track Return Level 31.
Chapter 3 Operation Section 23 Aux Return Section There are two aux return sections incorporated into the LiLo. Each stereo return includes a stereo Return Level control, Pan control, Mix Assign, Group Assign, and in-place Solo switch. 34. Aux Return Level 35. Pan/Balance Control 36. Mix Assign 37. Group Assign This dual pot simultaneously and equally adjusts the left and right aux return level.
Chapter 3 Operation Section 24 Group Section There are two group master sections on the LiLo mixer. Each section includes a Group Master level that controls a balanced XLR output on the rear panel. Each group section also includes a Pan control, Mix Assign that in conjunction with the pan control assigns the group mix to the main left/right mix, and In-place Solo. 39. Group Master Level 40. Pan Control 41. Group Mix Assign 42. Solo 43.
Chapter 3 Operation Section VU Meters 25 The LiLo may be ordered with a choice of two types of VU meters: A dual LED style, or dual analog style. Both types are calibrated to indicate 0VU for an output level of +4dBu. LED Style The LED style meter pod uses two 18 segment LED arrays and are sensitive from -31db to +5db. This circuit is designed to approximate the ballistics of a "taut band" analog style VU meter. Analog Style The Analog style meter pod uses two high quality illuminated Sifam VU meters.
Chapter 3 Operation Section 26 Master Module I/O connectors The master section has a full compliment of XLR and 1/4" TRS jacks for the main Mix Outputs, Group Outputs, Monitor Outputs, Aux sends and Aux returns, the stereo DAW Return and 2 Track Return, and a external V.U. Meter Output.
Chapter 3 Operation Section 46. Group Output Connectors 27 The balanced group outputs are adjusted by the Group 1 and Group 2 masters [39] on the master module. Active-Balanced outputs are standard on the group outputs but may be ordered with transformer-balanced outputs. 47. Group Insert Jacks Each group channel has ¼" TRS send and return insert jacks. The insert jack provides line level inter-stage access to the group bus before (pre) the Group Master level control.
Chapter 3 Operation Section 50. VU Meter Output 28 This ¼” TRS jack is available as an unbalanced output for an external stereo VU meter and is selected with the VU Meter Select switch on the master module. The tip of the stereo jack is the left VU signal, and the ring of the jack is the right VU signal. 51 52 The use of this output connector does not affect the operation of the VU meter pod on the LiLo. 51. Aux Send Jacks 52. Aux Return Jacks 53.
Chapter 3 Operation Section 54. Chassis Ground Lift 29 When depressed, this switch disconnects the chassis ground of the LiLo from the power DC common. This can reduce the chance of ground loops and eliminate unwanted hums or buzzes. A few words about hums, buzzes, and the role of a ground lift. Not to suggest that the reasons for hums in an audio system can't be explained…they can… but the explanation, cure, and costs are very often out of the reach of the average project studio.
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Chapter 4 Wiring and Other 31 Wiring & Other General The following information is not specific to the operation of the LiLo, but rather general information regarding the “care and feeding” of an audio system. A general discussion about AC, AC grounding, audio grounding, EMI, and quality wiring is discussed in this section. These subjects are very often overlooked or misunderstood, and should be given consideration when interfacing your equipment to any audio product.
Chapter 4 Wiring and Other Clock noise and AC 32 Clock noise is one of the greatest enemies of the audio racks AC system. If a computer or any microprocessor based device (most samplers and effects are) emits or somehow couples its clock signal with the neutral or earth of its own power cable, it will contaminate your AC system and carry the clock noise into other equipment; almost always with undesirable results.
Chapter 4 Wiring and Other 33 If a patchbay is utilized in your mixing system, the rules for shielding change. With a patchbay, normally all shields are connected at the patchbay jacks, and not connected at the mixer or external audio equipment. EMI and RFI The occurrence of EMI (Electro Magnetic Interference) and RFI (Radio Frequency Interference) in a contemporary studio system should be of great concern and not overlooked when installing the LiLo.
