Allen&Heath ML3000 Application Guide

ALLEN&HEATH ML3000 SYS-LINK AP4722 issue 1

Applications Note

The SYS-LINK option allows the
consoles to expand the number of channels in the mix. The option is available from Allen &
Heath as a kit with part number ML3000-SLV2. Fitting requires the removal of connector
blanking plates and the installation of two internal circuit cards. Both consoles being linked
must be fitted with the correct SYS-LINK option. This work is detailed in Fitting Instructions
AP4721 and should be carried out by qualified service personnel.

How SYS-LINK Works

Two consoles are linked via SYS-LINK as a master / slave combination so that one acts as a
sidecar expander to the other. The mix outputs of the slave are fed into the busses of the
master. The slave console master section is not used as the signals are taken before its main
inserts and output faders. The slave signals mix into the master console busses so expanding
the number of channels feeding the mix without using up valuable input channels. The
interconnection is made using a few multiway cables.

All the console mix busses are linked. This includes the auxes, groups and main LR and C
busses but not the matrix mix. The PFL/AFL system is linked so that pressing a PFL or AFL
switch on the slave console actions PFL on the master. You can listen to and meter the slave
signals using the master console. All the audio signals are line level and balanced to avoid
interference pickup.

The two console logic systems are also linked. This allows the mute and VCA group functions
to act as one. The slave ML3000 is put into ‘slave’ mode so that its group functions are taken
over by the master. The slave console group controls are disabled. One MIDI connection to
the master console can access both the master and slave MIDI functions.

The Benefits of Using SYS-LINK

ML3000

console to be easily linked to other

ML Series

1. Two ML3000 consoles can be linked together as a master / slave combination to expand
the number of channels in the mix to a maximum of 80 mono plus 4 stereos. This is great
in a rental situation where the consoles can be hired separately one day, and then
together for a bigger job the next day.

2. The ML3000 can be linked to an ML4000 or ML5000 console as a channel expander
similar to a sidecar. Once again useful in the hire situation where both consoles can
produce regular income rather than having dedicated sidecar expanders used just
occasionally.

3. The number of cables required to connect the two consoles is reduced. Two 37way
audio and one 9way logic cables are all it takes to interconnect the full mix system
between the consoles.

4. The slave signals are mixed directly into the master console busses. All channels are
available to the user for the input sources.

The Limitations

1. The ML Series consoles feature SYS-LINK Version 2. This is not directly compatible with
the SYS-LINK Version 1 used on earlier Allen & Heath consoles such as the GL Series.
For details on the conversion required to link between the two contact Technical Support.

2. SYS-LINK is intended for local interconnection. Standard 2.9 metre long cables are
provided. The system is not guaranteed to operate correctly over longer distances.

AP4722 ML3000 SYS-LINK Applications Note 1

Connecting Two ML3000 Consoles

MASTER ML3000 CONSOLE SLAVE ML3000 CONSOLE

INPUT

A B

SLAVE (TO MASTER)MASTER (FROM SLAVE)

1. Connect the slave console SYS-LINK A and B outputs to the master console SYS-LINK A
and B inputs using the two 37way cables provided. Connect the slave console SLAVE (to
master) logic port to the master console MASTER (from slave) logic port using the 9way
cable provided. Make sure the cables are correctly plugged in and secured using their
locking screws.

2. Use a pointed object to select the underpanel SLAVE MODE switch above the LRC
faders on the slave console. Make sure this switch is in its normal up position on the
master console. If you have changed the setting of the switch turn power off and on
again to boot the console into its new mode.

Connecting the ML3000 to an ML4000 or ML5000 Console

MASTER ML4000 OR ML5000 CONSOLE

INPUT

A B

1. Connect the ML3000 slave console SYS-LINK A and B outputs to the master ML console
SYS-LINK A and B inputs using the two 37way cables provided. Connect the ML3000
SLAVE (to master) logic port to the ML SIDECAR LOGIC 1 or 2 logic port using the 9way
cable provided. Make sure the cables are correctly plugged in and secured using their
locking screws.

2. Use a pointed object to select the underpanel SLAVE MODE switch above the LRC
faders on the ML3000. If you have changed the setting of the switch turn power off and
on again to boot the console into its new mode. It is not necessary to change any mode
on the ML4000 or ML5000.

SLAVE ML3000 CONSOLE

SLAVE (TO MASTER)SIDECAR 1 EXPANDER LOGIC

The Connections

OUTPUT

A B

OUTPUT

A B

Audio cables: Male 37way D-type plug

BA

both ends. Shielded 36 core cable. The
cables are wired one to one with shield
connected to pin 19.

Logic cable: Male 9way D-type plug both

13 GRP 4+

12 AUX 1+

11 AUX 2+

10 AUX 3+

9 AUX 4+

8 AUX 5+

7 AUX 6+

6 PFL+54 nc

3 PFL DC

2 AFL DC

16 GRP 1+

17 R+

18 L+

19 0V (CHS)

14 GRP 3+

15 GRP 2+

1 0V (PAFL)

19 0V (CHS)

17 AFL L+

18 C+

13

141516

12 AUX 7+

11 AUX 8+109

8 nc

7 nc

6 nc

5 nc

4 nc

3 nc

2 nc

1 nc

ends. RS422 cable.
Audio signals are balanced with low

impedance outputs and high impedance
inputs. Operating levels are 0dBu except
for PFL/AFL which is –8dBu.

For custom application of these
connectors make sure any unused audio

nc 21

nc 20

inputs are linked to 0V to prevent
interference pickup via the cable.

L- 37

R- 36

GRP 1- 35

GRP 4- 32

GRP 3- 33

GRP 2- 34

AUX 1- 31

AUX 2- 30

AUX 3- 29

AUX 4- 28

AUX 5- 27

AUX 6- 26

24

PFL- 25

nc 23

nc 22

nc 21

nc 20

C- 37

AFL L- 36

28

272625

33

32

AUX 7- 31

29

AUX 8- 30

35

34

24

nc 23

nc 22

AP4722 ML3000 SYS-LINK Applications Note 2