Allen and Heath WZ-3 Owners manual

MixWizard WZ316:2 and WZ312:2

USER GUIDE

Publication AP5331

Limited One Year Warranty

This product is warranted to be free from defects in materials or workmanship for
a period of one year from the date of purchase by the original owner.

To ensure a high level of performance and reliability for which this equipment has
been designed and manufactured, read this User Guide before operating. In the
event of a failure, notify and return the defective unit to ALLEN&HEATH Limited
or its authorised agent as soon as possible for repair under warranty subject to
the following conditions

Conditions Of Warranty

1. The equipment has been installed and operated in accordance with the
instructions in this User Guide

2. The equipment has not been subject to misuse either intended or accidental,
neglect, or alteration other than as described in the User Guide or Service
Manual, or approved by ALLEN&HEATH.

3. Any necessary adjustment, alteration or repair has been carried out by
ALLEN&HEATH or its authorised agent.

4. This warranty does not cover fader wear and tear.

5. The defective unit is to be returned carriage prepaid to ALLEN&HEATH or its
authorised agent with proof of purchase.

6. Units returned should be packed to avoid transit damage.

In certain territories the terms may vary. Check with your ALLEN&HEATH agent
for any additional warranty which may apply.

This product complies with the European Electromagnetic
Compatibility directives 89/336/EEC & 92/31/EEC and the
European Low Voltage Directives 73/23/EEC & 93/68/EEC.

This product has been tested to EN55103 Parts 1 & 2 1996 for use in
Environments E1, E2, E3, and E4 to demonstrate compliance with the
protection requirements in the European EMC directive 89/336/EEC.
During some tests the specified performance figures of the product
were affected. This is considered permissible and the product has
been passed as acceptable for its intended use. Allen & Heath has a
strict policy of ensuring all products are tested to the latest safety and
EMC standards. Customers requiring more information about EMC and
safety issues can contact Allen & Heath.

NOTE: Any changes or modifications to the console not approved by
Allen & Heath could void the compliance of the console and therefore
the users authority to operate it.

WZ316:2 and 12:2 User Guide AP5331 Issue 3

Copyright © 2005 Allen & Heath Limited. All rights reserved

ALLEN&HEATH Limited

Kernick Industrial Estate, Penryn, Cornwall, TR10 9LU, UK
http://www.allen-heath.com

2 WZ316:2 and 12:2 User Guide

Important Safety Instructions

WARNINGS

- Read the following before proceeding :

CAUTION

ATTENTION: RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE – NE PAS OUVRIR

Read instructions: Retain these safety and operating instructions for future reference. Adhere

to all warnings printed here and on the console. Follow the operating
instructions printed in this User Guide.

Do not remove cover: Operate the console with its covers correctly fitted. Disconnect mains

power by unplugging the power cord if the cover needs to be removed for
setting internal options. Refer this work to competent technical personnel
only.

Power sources: Connect the console to a mains power unit only of the type described in

this User Guide and marked on the rear panel. Use the power cord with
sealed mains plug appropriate for your local mains supply as provided with
the console. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet consult your
service agent for assistance.

Power cord routing: Route the power cord so that it is not likely to be walked on, stretched or

pinched by items placed upon or against it.

Grounding: Do not defeat the grounding and polarisation means of the power cord

plug. Do not remove or tamper with the ground connection in the power
cord.

WARNING: This equipment must be earthed.

Water and moisture: To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock do not expose the console to

rain or moisture or use it in damp or wet conditions. Do not place
containers of liquids on it which might spill into any openings.

Ventilation: Do not obstruct the ventilation slots or position the console where the air

flow required for ventilation is impeded. If the console is to be operated in
a rack unit or flightcase ensure that it is constructed to allow adequate
ventilation.

Heat and vibration: Do not locate the console in a place subject to excessive heat or direct

sunlight as this could be a fire hazard. Locate the console away from any
equipment which produces heat or causes excessive vibration.

Servicing: Switch off the equipment and unplug the power cord immediately if it is

exposed to moisture, spilled liquid, objects fallen into the openings, the
power cord or plug become damaged, during lightening storms, or if
smoke, odour or noise is noticed. Refer servicing to qualified technical
personnel only.

Installation: Install the console in accordance with the instructions printed in this User

Guide. Do not connect the output of power amplifiers directly to the
console. Use audio connectors and plugs only for their intended purpose.

WZ316:2 and 12:2 User Guide 3



Important Mains plug wiring instructions.

The console is supplied with a moulded mains plug fitted to the AC
mains power lead. Follow the instructions below if the mains plug has
to be replaced. The wires in the mains lead are coloured in
accordance with the following code:

TERMINAL

L

LIVE BROWN BLACK

N

NEUTRAL BLUE WHITE

E

EARTH GND GREEN & YELLOW GREEN

The wire which is coloured Green and Yellow must be connected to the
terminal in the plug which is marked with the letter E or with the Earth
symbol. This appliance must be earthed.

The wire which is coloured Blue must be connected to the terminal in
the plug which is marked with the letter N.

The wire which is coloured Brown must be connected to the terminal in
the plug which is marked with the letter L.

Ensure that these colour codes are followed carefully in the event of
the plug being changed.

General Precautions

WIRE COLOUR

European USA/Canada

Damage : To prevent damage to the controls and cosmetics avoid placing heavy

objects on the control surface, scratching the surface with sharp objects,
or rough handling and vibration.

Environment : Protect from excessive dirt, dust, heat and vibration when operating and

storing. Avoid tobacco ash, smoke, drinks spillage, and exposure to rain
and moisture. If the console becomes wet, switch off and remove mains
power immediately. Allow to dry out thoroughly before using again.

Cleaning : Avoid the use of chemicals, abrasives or solvents. The control panel is

best cleaned with a soft brush and dry lint-free cloth. The faders, switches
and potentiometers are lubricated for life. The use of electrical lubricants
on these parts is not recommended. The fader and potentiometer knobs
may be removed for cleaning with a warm soapy solution. Rinse and allow
to dry fully before refitting them.

Transporting : The console may be transported as a free-standing unit or mounted in a

rack or flightcase. Protect the controls from damage during transit. Use
adequate packing if you need to ship the unit.

Hearing : To avoid damage to your hearing do not operate any sound system at

excessively high volume. This also applies to any close-to-ear monitoring
such as headphones. Continued exposure to high volume sound can



cause frequency selective or wide range hearing loss.

4 WZ316:2 and 12:2 User Guide

Introduction

Welcome to the Allen & Heath WZ
compact audio mixing consoles. We have tried to keep this user guide brief and to the point.
Please read it fully before starting. Included is information on installing, connecting and
operating the console, panel drawings, system block diagram and technical specification.
For further information on the basic principles of audio system engineering, please refer to
one of the specialist publications and resources available from bookshops, audio equipment
dealers and the Internet.

Whilst we believe the information in this guide to be reliable we do not assume responsibility
for inaccuracies. We also reserve the right to make changes in the interest of further product
development.

We are able to offer further product support through our world-wide network of approved
dealers and service agents. You can also access our Web site on the Internet for
information on our full product range, our company pedigree, assistance with your technical
queries, our contact details or simply to chat about matters audio. To help us provide the
most efficient service please keep a record of your console serial number, and date and
place of purchase to be quoted in any communication regarding this product.

3

, the latest generation of the popular MixWizard series of

www.allen-heath.com

Contents

Warranty ................................................ 2

General Precautions.............................. 4

Introduction to this Guide...................... 5

Front Panel Layout ................................ 6

Introducing the MixWizard .................... 7

Installing the Console............................ 8

Connecting Power................................. 9

Connecting a Backup Supply ...............9

Connection Pinouts and Cables .........10

Audio Connections.............................. 11

Connector Panel Layouts.................... 12

Mono Input Channel ............................15

Stereo Input Channel........................... 17

Stereo Effects Processor .....................18

Stereo Effects Return Channel ............19

MIDI......................................................20

Master Section..................................... 21

Gain Structure...................................... 23

Specifications ......................................24

System Block Diagrams ...................... 26

Effects Parameters ..............................28

User Options........................................30

Console Connectors ........................... 13

Cue Sheets ..........................................33

WZ316:2 and 12:2 User Guide 5

GAIN

HF

HM

LM

LF

AUX

1

AUX

2

AUX

3

AUX

4

AUX

5

AUX

6

PAN

PK!

- 10 10

700

45

0

20

-15

1k

500Hz

-15

70

35Hz

-15

-15

PRE

OO +6

OO +6

OO +6

OO +6

OO +6

OO

POST

L R

LAMP

0

-5

GAIN

GAIN

ON

ON

9-10

HF

HM

LM

LF

AUX

1

AUX

2

AUX

3

AUX

4

AUX

5

AUX

6

BAL

PK!

-10

-20

-10

-20

O

O

(ST1+ST2)TO

-5

O

O

-15

-15

-15

-15

PRE

OO +6

OO +6

OO +6

OO +6

OO +6

OO

POST

L R

5

10

16

LRTO

0

5

10

16

+15

+15

+15

+15

POST
PRE

+6

=

MUTE

PFL

+48V

PAD

(LINE)

30

40

50

60 40

HPF

GAIN

- 10 10

+48V

PAD

(LINE)

0

30

40

20

50

60 40

HPF

HF

+15

3k

4k

6k

15k

+15

180

250

400

1k

+15

+15

POST
PRE

+6

=

MUTE

PFL

HM

LM

LF

AUX

AUX

AUX

AUX

AUX

AUX

PAN

700

1

2

3

4

5

6

PK!

-15

1k

500Hz

-15

70

45

35Hz

-15

-15

PRE

POST

3k

180

OO +6

OO +6

OO +6

OO +6

OO +6

OO

=

L R

PFL

+15

15k

+15

+15

+15

MUTE

4k

6k

250

400

1k

POST
PRE

+6

0

-5

GAIN

5

-10
10

-20

O

O

16

ON

TO LR

TO

(ST3+ST4)

11-12

0

-5
5

GAIN

-10
10

-20

O

O

16

ON

HF

+15

-15

HM

+15

-15

LM

+15

-15

LF

+15

-15

PRE

AUX

1

+6OO

AUX

2

+6OO

AUX

3

+6OO

AUX

4

+6OO

POST
PRE

AUX

5

+6OO

AUX

6

+6

OO

POST

=

BAL

RL

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

MUTE

PK!

PFL

FACTORY
PRESETS

SINGLE

STAGE

ROOM

HALL

PLATE

CHAMBER

CATHEDRAL

ARENA

GATED REV

KARAOKE

PING PONG

CHORUS

SLAP+REV

DLY+REV

ECHO+REV

CH+REV

PH+REV

DUAL

STAGE

ROOM

HALL

PLATE

CHAMBER

CATHEDRAL

ARENA

GATED REV

STAGE

ROOM

HALL

SLAP DLY

DELAY

ECHO

CHORUS

PHASER

ST5 / FX

AUX

1

AUX

2

AUX

3

AUX

4

OO

2

3

5

6

816

/ FX

ST5

LEV

PRE

AUX

1

AUX

2

AUX

3

AUX

4

AUX

5

AUX

6

AUX5 = 1-8
AUX6 = 9-16

AUX5 = 1-16

+6OO

+6OO

+6OO

BANK

SEL

+6OO

MUTE

+4OO

+4OO

+4OO

+4OO

+4OO

+4OO

SINGLE FX
DUAL FX

PHONES

ST6

LEV

OO

9+61

10

11

124

13

14

157

0

TO LR

+16
+9
+6
+3

0

-3

-6

-9

-12

-16

-20

-30

R

L

PFL

PHONES

10

0

AUX 1

1-2

AUX 2

AUX 3

3-4

AUX 4

AUX 5

5-6

AUX 6

ST5

/ FX

ST6

M

ALL UP = LR

ALT LR OUT
MONITOR

AB

0

+10

OO

L+R
AUX 6

RL

M

SIG

10

5

0

5

10

20

30

OO

SIG

10

5

0

5

10

20

30

OO

SIG

10

5

0

5

10

20

30

OO

SIG

10

5

0

5

10

20

30

OO

10

5

0

5

10

20

30

OO

10

5

0

5

10

20

30

OO

AUX6

6 WZ316:2 and 12:2 User Guide

Introducing the MixWizard

The Allen & Heath MixWizard series of consoles includes several models. This user guide
describes the WZ

3

16:2 and WZ312:2 stereo models. The 4 group WZ314:4:2 and stereo

input WZ20S consoles are described in separate publications. For further information on the
MixWizard series please refer to the Allen & Heath web site.

The MixWizard is a compact console designed for
professional live sound mixing. It is built to the same
high standards as our top of the range consoles, with
individual circuit cards, potentiometers nutted to the
panel for absolute strength, steel chassis, and no
compromise circuit design ensuring the finest sonic
performance.

The console can be operated free standing or in a
19” rack or flightcase. It is supplied with protective
side trims fitted. These can be removed for rack
mounting. The rear connector pod can be easily
rotated for rear facing or underside connectors when
rack mounted.

Both models feature a 4 band semi-parametric EQ
and high pass filter per mic/line channel, 6 aux sends
with combinations of pre/post switching, 100mm
faders, a built-in dual effects processor with
parameter control using Allen & Heath PC software,
dedicated mono output with separate fader and
innovative operating mode for aux fed sub systems,
additional AB stereo output, comprehensive metering
and engineers monitoring, dual redundant backup
supply input, and a lamp socket.

The WZ
stereo return inputs, a total of 20 input connections.
The WZ

3

16:2 provides 16 mono mic/line inputs and 2

3

12:2 provides 10 mono mic/line inputs, 2 full

channel dual stereo inputs, and 2 stereo return
inputs, a total of 22 input connections.

The base of the console can be removed to access a
host of internal option jumpers. These set user
preference for the aux, direct output and AB sources.

The aux outputs are impedance balanced but may
be electronically balanced if required by fitting an
optional part. A kit is also available to fit the optional
Sys-Link II output card which allows the console to
be linked to other Allen & Heath consoles.

Software for editing the effects parameters using a
PC computer can be downloaded free from the Allen
& Heath web site.

Other accessories available include the Allen &
Heath MPS12 backup power supply and LEDlamp
gooseneck lamp with built-in dimmer.

WZ316:2 and 12:2 User Guide 7

Installing the Console

Free Standing

The console is supplied ready for free standing operation with its side trims fitted and
connector pod positioned for rear access. If you are converting from rack to free standing
then make sure the pod is correctly rotated and secured, and the side trims fitted as shown
below:

5

5

194

RELEASE M4 POZI SCREW EACH SIDE

ROTATE POD AND REFIT SECURING SCREWS

19” Rack Mount

FIT SIDE TRIMS - 4x M4 POZI SCREWS PER SIDE

514

530

CONSOLE WIDTH = 507mm

1

2

58

For rack mounting, remove the two side trims and rotate the pod into the connector position
preferred. Allow enough space for the cables and connectors behind the console.

193

122

193

101.6165.1101.637.7

497

(11.2U)

444

(10U)

SECURE IN RACK USING 8x M6 BOLTS
USE PLASTIC CUP WASHERS TO PROTECT THE PANEL

482.6 (19" RACK)

Do not transport the console with its connector pod securing screws removed.
Do not attempt to remove the connector pod from the console. Do not obstruct
the ventilation slots. Allow adequate space around the console for air flow.

8 WZ316:2 and 12:2 User Guide

Connecting Power

EXTERNAL DC IN

RECOMMENDED ALLEN&HEATH POWER SUPPLY
REFER TO USER GUIDE FOR DET AILS

Read and understand the Important Safety Instructions printed at the start of this guide,
and the warnings printed on the rear of the console. Check that your local mains supply is
within the 100-240V operating voltage range allowed. Check that the correct mains lead
with moulded plug has been supplied with your console. Make sure that the IEC mains plug
is pressed fully into the panel socket before switching on.

Grounding

The connection to ground in an audio system is important for two reasons:

1. SAFETY - To protect the operator from high voltage electric shock, and

2. AUDIO PERFORMANCE - To minimise the effect of ground (earth) loops which result in
audible hum and buzz, and to shield the audio signals from interference.

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

AVIS: RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE - NE PAS OUVRIR.

CAUTION: FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST RISK OF FIREREPLACE FUSE WITH SAME TYPE AND RATING.
ATTENTION: REMPLACER LE FUSIBLE AVEC UN DES MEMES CARACTERIS TIQUES.

REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.

ENGINEERED IN ENGLAND BY ALLEN & HEATH LIMITED

DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPARATUS TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

Serial No.

T630mA L 250V 20mm

FUSE

AC MAINS IN ~

100 - 240V~ 47-63Hz 45W MAX

WARNING: THIS APPARATUS MUST BE EARTHED

ON

OFF

0

I

For safety it is important that all equipment grounds are connected to mains ground so that
exposed metal parts are prevented from carrying high voltage which can injure or even kill
the operator. Do not disconnect the ground connection in the mains lead. It is
recommended that the system engineer check the continuity of the safety ground from all
points in the system including microphone bodies, turntable chassis, equipment cases, rack
metalwork and so on.

Switching the console on and off

It is good practice to turn power amplifiers off before switching the console and any other
connected equipment on or off. This prevents any unexpected clicks or thumps when the
equipment is powered up.

Turn amplifiers and powered speakers on last and off first.

To turn the console on, press the ON/OFF switch next to the IEC mains input socket. To
turn the console off, press this switch again.

Connecting a backup supply

A socket is included for plugging in an optional backup power supply. This provides the
reassurance of power supply dual redundancy, a feature usually found only in expensive top
end consoles. The console uses diode combining technology so that both supplies can be
powered at the same time. One will automatically take over should the other stop working.
The recommended backup supply for the MixWizard is the Allen & Heath MPS12 power unit.
Refer to the user guide which comes with this supply.

Only plug the recommended Allen & Heath power unit into this socket. Do not
attempt to modify any other power unit to work with the console. Do not attempt to modify or
extend the DC power cable that comes with the supply.

The console can work with just the internal supply powered by mains, or just the backup
supply, or with both powered at the same time. To ensure uninterrupted performance in the
unlikely event of a failure, we recommended that both supplies are powered.

WZ316:2 and 12:2 User Guide 9

13 GRP 4+

12 AUX 1+

11 AUX 2+

10 AUX 3+

9 AUX 4+

8 AUX 5+

7 AUX 6+

6 PFL+

5 AFL+

4 nc

3 PFL DC

2 AFL DC

14 GRP 3+

15 GRP 2+

16 GRP 1+

17 R+

18 L+

19 0V (CHS)

L- 37

R- 36

AUX 1- 31

GRP 4- 32

AUX 2- 30

GRP 3- 33

GRP 2- 34

GRP 1- 35

PFL- 25

AFL- 24

AUX 4- 28

AUX 5- 27

AUX 3- 29

AUX 6- 26

1 0V (PAFL)

nc 21

nc 23

nc 20

nc 22

10 WZ316:2 and 12:2 User Guide

Audio Connections

The MixWizard uses professional grade 3 pin XLR and 1/4" TRS (3 pole) jack sockets. To
ensure best performance, we recommend that you use high quality audio cables and
connectors, and take time to check for reliable and accurate cable assembly. It is well
known that most audio system problems are due to faulty or sub standard interconnecting
leads. The following mating plugs may be used to connect audio signals to the console:

Avoid reversing + and - on balanced connections as this will result in reversed polarity (out
of phase) signals which may cause signal cancellation effects.

Where long cables runs are required, balanced interconnections should be used. However,
line level interconnections between more affordable 2-wire (signal, ground) unbalanced
equipment and the console are unlikely to cause problems if the cables are kept shorter than
10 meters or so. Refer to the wiring diagrams on the opposite page.

Dealing with Ground Loops, Buzz and Interference

For optimum performance all audio signals should be referenced to a solid, noise-free
ground (earth) point, frequently referred to as the ‘star point’ or ‘clean earth’.

A ground loop is created when potential differences exist between grounds at different
points in the system, and the signal has more than one path to ground. In most cases
ground loops do not result in audible problems. Should you experience hum or buzz caused
by a ground loop, check first that each piece of equipment has its own separate path to
ground. If so, operate ground lift switches on connected equipment in accordance with the
instruction manuals. Alternatively disconnect the cable screen at the destination end only.
This breaks the offending loop while keeping the signal shielding down the length of cable.

WARNING For operator safety do not remove the ground (earth) connection

in the power lead of the console or connected equipment.

To avoid interference pickup keep audio cables away from mains power units and cables,
thyristor dimmer units, computer equipment and mobile phones. Where this cannot be
avoided, cross the cables at right angles to minimise interference

A note about balanced connections

A differentially balanced connection has two signal wires, signal + (hot) and signal - (cold)
and a shield. The signal source generates positive going polarity down the + wire and
negative polarity down the – wire. The destination input stage accepts the + signal on its
non-inverting (+) input pin, but it inverts the – signal, adding it to the + signal. The result is
that the wanted signal is boosted. Now examine what happens when unwanted interference
(hum and noise) is induced into the cable. The noise is induced equally and with the same
polarity into both wires. At the destination input the – wire signal gets inverted and added to
the + signal. Because the polarity is the same on both input wires the noise cancels itself
out at this input. For this interference rejection to work it is important that the source, the
cable and the destination input are all balanced. Balancing provides greatest advantage
with low level signals such as those produced by microphones.

An impedance balanced
drive on the - wire. It does not generate a negative polarity signal at its – output. Instead,
the – wire has no signal but is held at the same impedance as the + wire. This means that
both wires pick up the noise equally resulting in cancellation as described above.

output provides similar interference rejection, but without the signal

WZ316:2 and 12:2 User Guide 11