Alesis MultiMix 6 FX Reference Manual - Page 19

2 A Tour of the MultiMix In this chapter, you'll learn all about the MulitMix-6FX's components (except for the digital effects processor, which is explained in the next chapter). Please refer to the diagrams as you read each section to see which components we're talking about. Patchbay At the rear portion of the top of the MultiMix-6FX, you'll find the patchbay. This is where you plug in instruments, signal processors, multitrack recorders and other devices. Whatever you need to connect to the mixer, this is where it's done. In the following paragraphs, we tell you all about the inputs, outputs, switches and knobs you see in this section of the mixer. Mic Inputs (Channels 1 - 2) The MultiMix uses standard XLR-type mic inputs. These provide +48V phantom power that you can turn on and off with the Phantom On switch located on the rear of the mixer. You probably will have to turn on the phantom power when you're using most condenser mics, as these usually require the extra voltage (unless the mic has its own power source, such as a battery). Dynamic and ribbon mics don't require phantom power and are unaffected when the power is on. These high-quality mic inputs also feature up to 50dB of preamp gain that you can adjust with the Gain knob. Line Inputs (Channels 1 - 2) The line inputs, marked LINE IN, are balanced 1/4" jacks that offer the same 50dB of preamp gain provided by the mic inputs (however, phantom power does not apply to line inputs). These inputs accept line-level instruments such as keyboards and drum machines. If you find that your instrument has a weak line signal, just plug it into channels 1 - 2 and crank it up with the Gain knob. Line Inputs (Channels 3 - 6) Unlike channels 1 - 2, the line inputs on channels 3 - 6 are stereo inputs that have left and right inputs. If you're using one of these channels as a mono input, plug your instrument into the left input. Channels 3 - 6 don't have the extra gain found on channels 1 - 2 because most line-level instruments don't require the extra boost. MIDI and other electronic instruments will work especially well on Although chances are your microphones will work fine with these mic inputs, we recommend that you do some checking up on the type of microphone you're using, especially if it's one of the older vintage models. Verify that your microphone requires phantom power and make sure its output is low impedance, balanced and floating. Always connect your microphones before activating phantom power. Microphones tend to be very sensitive, and the sudden power surge can do permanent damage to the mic's circuitry. It's also a good idea to lower mixer levels (slide those faders down a bit) before you activate phantom power. 17