Behringer XENYX X1222USB Manual - Page 5

5 XENYX X1222USB User Manual 1. Introduction FBQ Feedback Detection System The FBQ Feedback Detection System, integrated into the graphic equalizer, is one of the most outstanding characteristics of this mixing console. This ingenious circuitry lets you immediately recognize and eliminate feedback frequencies. The FBQ Feedback Detection System uses the LEDs in the frequency band faders of the graphic EQ to indicate the critical frequencies. This way, what once used to be a labor-intensive search for feedback frequencies is now an activity that even a child could master. The microphone channels feature high-end XENYX Mic Preamps that compare well with costly outboard preamps in terms of sound quality and dynamics and boast the following features: • 130 dB dynamic range for an incredible amount of headroom • A bandwidth ranging from below 10 Hz to over 200 kHz for crystal-clear reproduction of even the finest nuances • The extremely low-noise and distortion-free circuitry guarantees absolutely natural and transparent signal reproduction • They are perfectly matched to every conceivable microphone with up to 60 dB gain and +48 volt phantom power supply • They enable you to use the greatly extended dynamic range of your 24-bit/192 kHz HD recorder to the full, thereby maintaining optimal audio quality "British EQ" The equalizers used for the XENYX Series are based on the legendary circuitry of top-notch consoles made in Britain, which are renowned throughout the world for their incredibly warm and musical sound character. Even with extreme gain settings these equalizers ensure outstanding audio properties. Multi-effects processor Additionally, your XENYX mixing console has an effects processor with 24-bit A/D and D/A converters included, which gives you 16 presets producing first-class reverb, delay and modulation effects plus numerous multi-effects in excellent audio quality. The XENYX mixing consoles are equipped with a state-of-the-art switched-mode power supply (SMPS). Unlike conventional circuitry an SMPS provides an optimum supply current regardless of the input voltage. And thanks to its considerably higher efficiency a switched-mode power supply uses less energy than conventional power supplies. !!CAUTION! ◊ We would like to draw your attention to the fact that extreme volumes may damage your hearing and/or your headphones or loudspeakers. Turn the MAIN MIX faders and the PHONES control in the main section fully down before you switch on the unit. Always be careful to set the appropriate volume. 1.1 General mixing console functions A mixing console fulfils three main functions: • Signal processing: Preamplification Microphones convert sound waves into voltage that has to be amplified several-fold; then, this voltage is turned into sound that is reproduced in a loudspeaker. Because micro­phone capsules are very delicate in their construction, output voltage is very low and therefore susceptible to interference. Therefore, mic signal voltage is amplified directly at the mixer input to a higher signal level that is less prone to interference. This higher, interference-safe signal level has to be achieved through amplification using an amplifier of the highest quality in order to amplify the signal and add as little noise to it as possible. The XENYX Mic Preamp performs this role beautifully, leaving no traces of noise or sound coloration. Interference that could take place at the preamplification level could affect signal quality and purity, and would then be passed on to all other devices, resulting in inaccurate sounding program during recording or playback. Level-setting Signals fed into the mixer using a DI-box (Direct Injection) or the output of a sound card or a keyboard, often have to be adjusted to the operating level of your mixing console. Frequency response correction Using the equalizers found in each channel strip, you can simply, quickly and effectively adjust the way a signal sounds. Effects mixing In addition to the effects processor contained in your mixer, using the insert connectors on the mono channels and both aux busses lets you insert additional signal processors into your signal path. • Signal distribution: Individual signals adjusted at each channel strip are laid out at the aux sends and returns, and are either fed into external effects processors or fed back to the internal effects processor. Then, the signals are brought back into the main mix either via the aux return connectors or via direct internal wiring. The mix for the on-stage musicians is also created using the aux sends (monitor mix). Similarly, for example, signals for recording equipment, power ampli­fiers, headphones and 2-track outputs can also be taken. • Mix: All other mixing console functions fall under this vital category. Creating a mix means primarily adjusting the volume levels of individual instruments and voices to one another as well as giving them the appropriate weight within the overall frequency spectrum. Likewise, you'll have to sensibly spread individual voices across the stereo image of a signal. At the end of this process, adjusting the level of the entire mix to other equipment in the signal path is required (e.g. recorder/crossover/amplifier). The interface of BEHRINGER mixing consoles is optimized for these tasks, enabling you to easily keep track of the signal path.