Allen&Heath iDR10 User Manual

ALLEN&HEATH

iDR10

iLive System DSP MixRack

USER GUIDE

Publication AP6525

Limited Two Year Warranty

This product has been manufactured in the UK by ALLEN & HEATH and
is warranted to be free from defects in materials or workmanship for a
period of two years 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 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. The defective unit is to be returned carriage prepaid to ALLEN &
HEATH or its authorised agent with proof of purchase.

5. 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.

Any changes or modifications to the power supply unit not approved
by Allen & Heath could void the compliance of the product and
therefore the users authority to operate it.

iDR10 User Guide AP6525 Issue 1.

Copyright © 2008 Allen & Heath. All rights reserved

Manufactured in the United Kingdom by Allen & Heath Limited

Kernick Industrial Estate, Penryn, Cornwall, TR10 9LU, UK

http://www.allen-heath.com

2 iDR10 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 equipment. Follow the operating
instructions printed in this User Guide.

Do not remove covers: Operate the equipment with its covers correctly fitted. Refer any service work

on the equipment to competent technical personnel only.

Power sources: Connect the equipment to a mains power supply only of the type described

in this User Guide and marked on the rear panel. Use only the power cord
with sealed mains plug appropriate for your local mains supply as provided
with the equipment. 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 equipment to

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

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

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

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

sunlight as this could be a fire hazard. Locate the equipment away from any
devices which produce heat or cause 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 equipment in accordance with the instructions printed in this User

Guide. Use the equipment connections for their intended purpose only.

iDR10 User Guide 3

Important Mains plug wiring instructions.

The unit 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:

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.

Precautions

TERMINAL

WIRE COLOUR

European USA/Canada

Damage : To prevent damage to the equipment cosmetics, avoid placing heavy

objects on the unit, scratching the surface with sharp objects,
subjecting the unit to 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 equipment becomes wet, switch
off and remove power immediately. Allow to dry out thoroughly
before using again.

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

best cleaned with a soft brush and dry lint-free cloth. If the ventilation
grilles become blocked with dust use a vacuum cleaner to suck the
dirt out. Do not remove the cover to clean the unit.

Transporting : The equipment should be transported in the original packing or

purpose built flightcase to protect it from damage during transit.

or

Cables: Plan the location of the equipment so that the connecting cables are

not fully extended. Full extension of the cables can stress the
equipment and cables and may result in undesired performance.
Ensure that the cables are located such that they cannot be stood on
or tripped over.

Modules: Do not remove the modules from the unit while power is applied.

4 iDR10 User Guide

Introduction

This is the user guide for the Allen & Heath iDR10 ‘MixRack’. We recommend that you
read this fully before starting. Included is information on installing, connecting and
operating the unit. 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 worldwide network of approved
dealers and service agents. You can also access our Web site (www.allen-heath.com)
for information on our company and its pedigree, our full product range and our design
philosophy. To help us provide the most efficient service please keep a record of your
unit serial number, and date and place of purchase to be quoted in any communication
regarding this product. The serial number is located on the rear panel.

For further information on using the iLive system please refer to:

iLive System Reference guide AP6526

iLive Getting Started Guide AP7260

Allen & Heath Resource CD AP4742

Allen & Heath web site www.allen-heath.com

Firmware Release Notes Downloadable from web site

Help file within system firmware

Check the packing contents

Retain the product packing should you need to ship the product in future. You should find the
following components:

ALLEN&HEATH iDR-64

MIX ENGINE

1x IEC MAINS LEAD with moulded plug. Check that the plug
is suitable for connection to your local mains supply.
iDR10/n where n = mains voltage 120 (USA), 220 (EU), 240
(UK)

1x CAT5 CABLE 1.8m RJ45 EtherCon connections.

Part number AH7001. Connects the iDR10 to the iLive
Surface or another MixRack. Note that the second cable
required is shipped with the iLive Surface.

DOCUMENTATION including the User Guide AP6525, Safety
Sheet AP3345, Registration Card AP3594, and sticker
AP4943.

1x iDR10 MixRack. Depending on the order
configuration, the MixRack is either shipped
in a carton or a touring grade, shock
mounted flightcase.

1x MODULE EXTRACTOR TOOL AA6869.
This is fitted in clips at the rear of the
flightcase or packed in the carton.

iDR10 User Guide 5

Welcome to the iDR10 MixRack

The iDR10 is the heart of the iLive mixing system. It is called the ‘MixRack’ as it houses the iDR-64
DSP mix engine, the CPU module which manages and allows remote control of the mix functions,
and the RAB (remote audio) module which provides up to two audio networking interfaces (currently
both EtherSound). It is the mixer itself, configurable and controllable via Ethernet using an iLive
Surface or PC. It is called the iDR10 because it includes 10 additional slot positions to fit the required
combination of audio input and output modules. This means the MixRack may be positioned on
stage near its sources and controlled remotely from up to 100 metres away using a control surface
connected via a CAT5 cable. Local audio required at the mix position can be transported to and from
the MixRack via a second CAT5 cable, therefore doing away with the need for a bulky traditional
copper multicore snake. Audio may be further distributed around the venue using the EtherSound
audio networks. Systems may be linked for split FOH/Monitor/Recording applications using
EtherSound as a digital mic splitter.

The iDR10 features a 64 input x 32 mix bus architecture with full processing on all input and mix
channels. You do not need to allocate or share processing. The iDR-64 ‘Rack Extra’ module
provides enough DSP for all the channel processing to be available all the time, together with 8
stereo internal effects devices. Input processing includes high-pass filter, noise gate, parametric EQ,
compressor, limiter/de-esser and delay. Mix processing includes both parametric and graphic EQ,
compressor, limiter and delay. The module is called ‘RackExtra’ because it includes a virtual 8 slot
rack which can be loaded with up to 8 additional processors from a library of many emulations of
high quality effects devices. The effects can add an extra 8 ‘short returns’ complete with parametric
EQ bringing the total number of sources feeding the mix to 72.

The user has a choice of input and output modules to fit into the 10 available MixRack card slots.
The same module types may be loaded into the 4 slots available at the rear of the iLive surface.
Unused slots may have blanking plates fitted. Each module handles 8 signals, either inputs or
outputs. These modules may be fitted anywhere within the available MixRack and Surface card slots.
Choices currently available include analogue mic/line inputs, XLR line out, and digital inputs and
outputs with a variety of optional formats including SPDIF, optical, AES, ADAT and more.

The iDR10 does away with the need for cumbersome outboard processing and I/O racks letting you
configure a full spec mix system in a compact footprint comprising just the MixRack and Surface. If,
however, you wish to insert favourite outboard devices you can do this by configuring any number of
channel and mix inserts patched to sockets anywhere in the system. Virtual patchbays are provided
too letting you map any input source to any channel, and any output signal to any socket.

The RAB module provides a local headphones output, the networked audio options and digital clock
source if synchronisation with external devices is required. Up to 2 EtherSound network card options
may be fitted to transport audio to and from locations remote from the MixRack. ESA replaces the
traditional analogue multicore providing audio at the surface and distributed to other EtherSound
equipped break in/out boxes. ESB provides a digital mic splitter for FOH/Monitor systems, multitrack
recording and system expansion.

The CPU module allows TCP/IP over Ethernet control from network devices such as the iLive Surface
or PC running iLive application software. A 3-port switcher is built in for control from multiple devices
accessing the same network, for example both a Surface and a laptop. The module also allows
control via MIDI and PL-Anet for the Allen & Heath PL Series remote controllers.

The iDR10 is well equipped for the stage environment with a lamp socket for low lighting conditions,
LED status indicators for phantom power, mute and PAFL active, ideal for helping the stage tech find
the right socket. The MixRack may be shipped in a touring grade, shock mounted flight case, and be
configured to include two internal universal voltage power supply modules, one for redundant supply
backup. Full protection and thermal management is provided.

Sound quality has been one of the key objectives behind the design of the iLive system. The
architectural design and choice of components ensure a high performance, very low latency system.
DSP algorithms developed by Allen & Heath over many years have been tailored for the demands of
live sound. The iDR10 uses a top of the range preamp design and features very high headroom
throughout the signal path to cope with the busiest and most dynamic live mix.

Please take the time to read through the rest of this guide before starting. Also refer to the iLive
System Reference Guide which has more information of configuring and using the iLive system.

6 iDR10 User Guide

DSP ‘RackExtra’ module

The DSP mix engine, the heart
of the iLive mixing system.
64x32 mix architecture plus 8x
internal FX racks.

REMOTE AUDIO module

With system clock, headphones
and remote audio distribution. Fit
up to 2 audio network option
cards. EtherSound interface is
available here.

CPU module

Manages the MixRack
system and allows remote
control via Ethernet, MIDI
and PL-Anet. Also provides

iDR10

MixRack

Audio modules

10 slots available.
Slots A to J

MIC/LINE IN module

8x mic preamps with remote
gain control.

LINE OUT module

8x balanced line out sockets.

Note: You can choose any combination of input, output and blank

modules to load into the 10 available slots. The format above shows all
the options available at the time of print and is not representative of a
typical user setup. The photo below shows a popular configuration with
48 mic inputs and 24 line outputs loaded. Further inputs and outputs
would typically be available at the rear of the surface.

DUAL MIC/LINE IN module

Connect 16x inputs on screw
terminal plugs. 8x mic
preamps each with remote
selection of A and B inputs.

System
modules

Slots K, L, M

Ethernet switch

3x network ports.

ESA

EtherSound digital
snake. Surface
and break out/in
audio.

ESB

EtherSound digital
mic split, system
expansion, record.

PL-Anet

Connect to Allen &
Heath PL-Series
remote controllers.

MULTI DIGITAL OUT module

16x outputs in digital format. ADAT, Aviom,
HearBack, iDR Expander. Uses 2 slots.

DIGITAL OUT module

4x pairs of digital outputs simultaneously
available AES, SPDIF or OPTO.

DIGITAL IN module

4x pairs of digital inputs selectable
either AES, SPDIF or OPTO.

FLIGHT CASE

Touring grade case on
wheels. Shock mounted
rack. Front and rear
covers.

Module extractor tool

To help pull out modules if you
need to reconfigure the module
format.

Note: Do not remove or plug

in modules while power is
applied. The iLive system is not
‘hot pluggable’.

POWER SUPPLY module

Universal mains input. One
required. Fit second as redundant
supply backup.

iDR10 User Guide 7

Installation

Free standing

The iDR10 can be operated as a freestanding unit for shelf or floor operation. Ensure adequate air
flow around the unit. It must not be covered in any way. Always stand the unit on a firm flat surface
away from any soft furnishings or carpet.

Rack mounting

The iDR10 is designed as a 19 inch rack mount unit and will occupy 9U of rack space. Ensure
natural convection of airflow around the unit by allowing good ventilation below, in front of and
behind the unit. Rack equipment known to produce a significant amount of heat should not be
mounted directly below the unit. Forced convection by means of a rack mounted fan-tray may be
desirable in situations where space is restricted and the ambient air temperature is high.

Flight casing

The iDR10 may be ordered with a suitable touring grade flight case. If you have a case made we
recommend that you use only a professional grade specification with shock mounted internal rack
frame. Ensure adequate ventilation in front of and behind the unit when it is powered. Make sure the
wheel locks are engaged when the unit is stationary.

Cables

Make sure the cables are not stretched in any way and are routed to avoid becoming kinked or
damaged. Allow enough service loop for access and removal of the unit. Ensure all connectors are
fully plugged in and locked.

Dimensions and weights

SIDE FRONT

669 mm / 26.34"

730 mm / 28.75"

142 mm / 5.6"

643 mm / 25.3"

HEATHALLEN

ALLEN&HEATH iDR-64

MIX ENGINE

482 mm / 19"350 mm / 13.8"

MIXRACK WEIGHT = 26kg / 57lb

Do not obstruct the ventilation

slots. Ensure adequate air flow
around the iDR10.

Ensure proper grounding. Do
not remove the IEC mains cord earth
(ground) connection.

400 mm / 15.75" 9U

MIXRACK IN FLIGHTCASE = 68kg / 150lb
MIXRACK IN CARTON = 27kg / 60lb

8 iDR10 User Guide