Allen&Heath XONE 92 User Manual

USER GUIDE

Publication AP5345

Limited One Year Warranty

This product is warranted to be free from defects in materials or workmanship for 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 e quipment 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 necessar y adjustme nt, alteration or rep air has bee n carr ied out b y ALLEN & HEATH or its authorised agent.

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

5. T he defective unit is to be r et urned carri age prep aid t o ALL EN & HEAT H 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.

XONE:92 User Guide AP5345 Issue 4

Allen & Heath Limited Kernick Industrial Estate, Penryn, Cornwall, TR10 9LU, UK

http://www.allen-heath.com

2 XONE:92 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 conso le. Follo w the o per ating instructi ons 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 only of the type describe d 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 outl et 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 me ans 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 th e consol e to rai n 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.

XONE:92 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:

L N E

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

European USA/Canada LIVE BROWN BLACK NEUTRAL BLUE WHITE EARTH GND GREEN & YELLOW GREEN

WIRE COLOUR

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

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 spill age, 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.

Transporting : The console may be transported as a fre e-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 t o high volume sound can cause

!

frequency selective or wide range hearing loss. Make sure that your system complies with any venue sound level and noise regulations which may apply.

4 XONE:92 User Guide

Introduction

This user guide presents a quick reference to the XONE:92. We recommend that you read this fully before starting. Included is information on installing, connecting and operating the console, panel drawings, system block diagram and technical specification. For further information o n the basic principles of audio system engineering, please refer to one of the specialist publications available from bookshops and audio equipment dealers.

Whilst we believe the information in this guide to be relia ble 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 product range, assistance with your technical queries 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 d ate and place of purchase to be quoted in any communication regarding this product.

Check out our web site for information on the company and its pedigree, our full product range and our design philosophy. We also have a site dedicated to the exciting XONE console range.

www.xone.co.uk

www.allen-heath.com

Contents

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

Important Safety Instructions ................ 3

Precautions ........................................... 4

Front and Rear Panel Drawings............ 6

Welcome to the XONE:92..................... 7

The Application ..................................... 9

Quick Start........................................... 10

Gain and Operating Levels ................. 13

Connecting Mains Power.................... 14

Earthing ............................................... 14

Replacing the Crossfader....................23

LFO Modulation ................................... 24

Filters Type Select ...............................25

Master Mix and Monitor System.......... 26

MIDI Control of External Devices ........28

MIDI Control Codes ............................. 29

MIDI Implementation Chart .................30

Glossary...............................................31

Specifications ......................................34

Block Diagram .....................................35

Plugging up the System...................... 15

Cables and Connectors ...................... 16

MIC/RTN Input Channel ...................... 18

PHONO/LINE Input Channel............... 20

Glossary...............................................27

Installer Link Options ...........................36

Cue Sheet ............................................ 39

Internet Site............................Rear Cover

Crossfader and VCF............................ 22

XONE:92 User Guide 5

CAUTION

AVIS: RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE - NE PAS OUVRIR.

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

OFF

SERIAL No:

WARNING: FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST RISK OF FIRE REPLACE FUSE WITH SAME TYPE AND RATING.

MIDI OUT

AC MAINS IN ~

100 - 240V~

47-63Hz ~ 30W MAX

100 - 240V~ T500mAL 250V 20mm

INPUT

L BOOTH

FUSE

PHONO

LINE

ATTENTION: REMPLACER LE FUSIBLE AVEC UN DES MEMES CARACTERISTIQUES.

PHONORL RL

INPUT INPUT

LINELR

R L

MIX2 R

LEFT RIGHT

MIX 1

PHONO R PHONOL R

RLINE

RECORD

INPUT

AUX 2 AUX 1

RLINEL

MIC

RETURN

L/M

MIC

RETURN

L/M

MADE IN THE UK BY ALLEN & HEATH LIMITED

Channel faders for Rotary version.

6 XONE:92 User Guide

Welcome to the XONE:92

The Allen & Heath XONE:92 presents a unique combination of performance tools for the professional DJ in a stylish and solidly built club format. Above all, it features sound quality second to none. XONE:92 has been designed and constructed using the same rigorous standards we apply to our large format professional consoles used and respected by top engineers throug hout the world.

XONE:92 provides 6 dual stereo channels, two offering mic inputs, addi ng up to a massive 10 stereo and 2 microphone inputs. A full range of connectors means that you can connect up to 4 turntables, 2 mics, CD players, MD players, drum machines, samplers, a nd pretty much anything else you might want to bring into the mix.

MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) allows featured front panel controls to transmit MIDI data to enable remote control of external effects, samplers, sequencers etc. T ap Tempo related MIDI clocks are also transmitted to provide synchronisation of MIDI sound modules to pre-recorded sources playing through the mixer.

4 BAND EQ controls rather than the usual 3 for greater creativity. Each band has a safe +6dB boost. The HI and LO bands have infinite attenuation (total kill) with a sharp 12dB/oct roll-off and the MID bands have a massive -30dB of cut, enough to sha pe your sound well beyo nd normal EQ range, and without overloading your system.

Stereo channels use high quality tw in rail linear or rotary VCA faders. These control the audio using DC voltages meaning that they can take a huge amount of pun ishm ent without the ban gs and crackles that inevitably creep in on regular audio faders. The high spec Penny & Giles VCA crossfader is easily removable from the to p panel for quick replacement should it become worn. The curve can be swept between dipped r esponse, id eal for seamless beat mixing, and fast-attack, suitable for scratch or cut mixing.

Unique to XONE, two stereo state variable Voltage Controlled Filters provide the DJ with a ne w level of live performance creativity. These are very similar to those found on classic analogue synths but benefit from modern, quiet and stable technology. Use these to sweep the sound by accentuating or cutting frequencies from 30Hz to 20kHz. The 3 filter t ypes HPF, BPF an d LPF can be combined to create many more amazing effects. Low Frequency Oscillator controls enable cyclic LFO changes to be applied to each filter. A large Resonance control changes the ‘Q’ or sharpness of the filter effect from subtle to extreme. Each VCF has its own ‘ON’ switch.

Combined with the extensive output and monitoring features, colour c oded indicators, styl ish layout and clear graphics visible in all lighting situations, you have an un beatable performance console equally at home in dance clubs, home set-ups, live venues, and on the road.

• 6 Dual stereo inputs, 2 with mic inputs

• RIAA preamps for up to 4 turntables

• Input selectors with 2 colour indicators

• Smooth action level controls

• 2 Stereo aux sends with pre/post switching

• 4 band EQ - high definition of frequency bands,

with ‘infinite kill’ on HF and LF; wide Q for cut, narrow Q for boost

• MIDI output from VCF 1+2, crossfader, LFO 2 (MIDI clock), dedicated data control and start/stop button

• Large ‘light-pipe’ illuminated cue switches

• 9 led 3 colour channel ‘bulls eye’ LED meters

• Crossfader and Filter assign switches

• Either smooth travel 60mm VCA faders or

rotary VCA faders (Linear or Rotary versions)

• Active Penny & Giles VCA crossfader allowing contour to be set from smooth to scratch mix

• Cue/Mix monitor balance control

• 2 Independent mix outputs

• 2 Rotary master level controls

• Dual stereo analogue VCF effects

• 3 Filter modes combine for more effects

• Independent frequency sweep controls

• Resonance control for subtle or wild effects

• Filter LFO Depth and tempo controls

• Illuminated Filter switches punch effect in or out

• Powerful headphones monitor with auto cue

• Headphones split cue and Aux 1 & 2 monitoring

• Stereo music only booth monitor output

• Booth mono and mute switching

• 9 led 3 colour main ‘bulls eye’ LED meters

• Balanced +4dBu XLR stereo Mix 1 output

• Impedance balanced Line stereo Mix 2 output

• Pre-fade recording output

XONE:92 User Guide 7

CAUTION

AVIS: RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE - NE PAS OUVRIR.

WARNING: THIS APPARATUS MUST BE EARTHED. TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT EXPOSE APPARATUS TO RAIN O R MOISTURE.

OFF

0 I

SERIAL No:

WARNING: FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST RISK OF FIRE REPLAC E FUSE WITH SAME TYPE AND RATING.

MIDI OUT

AC MAINS IN ~

100 - 240V~

47-63Hz ~ 30W MAX

100 - 240V~ T500mAL 250V 20mm

INPUT

L BOOTH

PHONO

FUSE

PHONORL RL

INPUT INPUT

LINE

R L

LEFT RIGHT

MIX 1

ATTENTION: REMPLACER LE FUSIBLE AVEC UN DES MEMES CARACTERISTIQUES.

LINELR

MIX2 R

PHONO R PHONOL R

RLINE

RECORD

INPUT

AUX 2 AUX 1

RLINEL

MIC

L/M

MIC

RETURN

L/M

RETURN

MADE IN THE UK BY ALLEN & HEATH LIMITED

8 XONE:92 User Guide

The XONE:92 Application

This diagram shows an example hook-up to demonstrate how the XONE:92 can be co nnected in a typical DJ application. Note that you do not need to connect the chan nels in the order shown, als o that the connector types on the equipment you c onnect to may be different to that shown. Use cables appropriate to your application. Pl ease read Plugging Up The System before connecting to your equipment. The following describes how the console is used in this example application:

Microphone sources: The DJ microphone is plugged into MIC 1. A second mic is plugged into MIC 2, typically for MC. These signals route to the mix outputs and headphones. They are not routed through the crossfader, nor to the booth monitor, so avoiding potential acoustic feedback.

Mix music sources: Stereo channels 1 and 2 are used for turntables. Stereo channels 3 and 4 line are used for CD decks. The turntable magnetic cartridges plug into the RIAA equipped phono inputs, the CD into the line i nputs. T his gives the DJ the ch oice of both vinyl and CD.

Drum machine: It is increasingly popular for the DJ to cut in additional sources ov er the mix. A drum machine provides a creative instrument, ideal for enhancin g the beat and bass line. This is shown plugged into stereo channel 1 line input. It can be assigned to either side of the crossfader or direct to the mix as required. The MIDI out from the XONE:92 provides the master MIDI clock to allo w synchronisation to the pre recorded sources and enables remote Start/Stop of this device.

Dynamic Effects Controller/ Delay Unit: The stereo Aux 1 & 2 sends are used to feed selected channels to external effects units, such as a DJ effects and Delay units. They are typically set pre-fader so that the effects can be set up whil e the channel faders are down. The devices outputs are returned into stereo retur n line inputs and can b e added to the mix using the return faders. MIDI control of both of these devices is possible from the XONE:92 depending on MIDI controller compatibility. Refer to each devices user guide for details of its MIDI setup. The stereo return On switches can be used to drop a n effect or delay into the mix by pushing the On switches up t o the DUCK position; this will bring the effect into the mix and automatically lower the level of the source by 15dB.

Laptop PC: Increasingly computer based sequencing is being used during a live set, running dedicated sequencing software. The MIDI out from the XONE:92 is used to provide master tempo and remote control of certain parameters within the software by mapping it to the controller codes generated by the mixer.

Mix 1 outputs: These outputs feed the main house PA system. The connections are balanced pro level +4dBu to feed long cable runs to th e amplifier system. They may plug into system processors such as protection limiters, EQ and crossovers which in turn connect to the amplifiers.

Mix 2 outputs: These outputs feed an external amplifier providing sound to an additional zone. They may plug into external signal processors or even be used as additional auxiliary outputs.

MIDI output: Featured front panel controls output MIDI data to an external device such as a computer sequencer or effects controller. This capability enables the DJ to additionally control MIDI compatible equipment during the performance.

Recording the set: A dedicated music only stereo outp ut connects to a recorder such as the CDR shown to record the performance. Typically the mic signals are not recorded. The signal is not affected by the master mix controls.

Booth monitor: A stereo speaker system provides the DJ with a music only local monitor. This can be checked or worked in mono if required, or muted if the DJ wishes to check the main PA sound or work with headphones only.

Headphones: Closed ear stereo headphones are recommended allowing the DJ to check and cue the music sources. Split-cue keeps the program in one ea r while cueing with the other to synchronise the beat before introducing the source into the mix. T wo front panel connections; 1/4” jack and a standard mini-jack headphone socket are provided for your convenience.

XONE:92 User Guide 9

Quick Start 

We recommend that you read through all sections of this U ser Guide before starting. H owever, we provide these notes so that you can plug up and experiment with sounds from your XONE:92 immediately if you prefer to read the full guide later. P lease note that you should first read and understand the Important Safety Instructions printed at the beginning of this guide. The following simple procedure requires a CD player and headphon es. Alternatively you can connect a pair of turntables and start mixing right away. Please read the rest of this guide before connecting to your amplifier and speaker systems.

1 Set all controls to their starting condition. Set all FADERS (rotary and linear), LEVEL, AUX, FREQ, RESONANCE, LFO DEPTH, HEADPHONES and BOOTH MONITOR controls to minimum. Set EQ controls to their detented centre position. Set all press switches to their up position. Set all toggle switches to their centre position.

2 Plug in a CD player. This provides a good stereo audio source as a starting point. Plug into stereo channel 1 line input as shown. Do not use the phono input for CD or other line level sources as this is intended for turntables with magnetic cartridges requiring RIAA equalisation.

AC MAINS IN ~

100 - 240V~

47-63Hz ~ 30W MAX

OFF

0 I

SERIAL No:

WARNING: FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST RISK OF FIRE REPLACE FUSE WITH SAME

100 - 240V~ T500mAL 250V 20m

3 Plug in the headphones. Plug into either of the top panel headphones sockets. Use the best headphones you can afford for your application. We recommend the professional grade closed-ear type of 30 to 100ohms impedance, and with ¼” TRS jack plug.

4 Connect AC mains power. Check first that the correct mains lead with sealed plug suitable for your local supply has been provided with your console. Plug into the AC MAINS IN socket making sure the connector is pressed fully in.

5 Switch the console on. Press the rear panel ON/OFF switch. You may notice that the console meters and various other LEDs flash briefly. This is normal during power up.

6 Select the line source. Press the stereo channel 1 source select switch. This lights red to indicate that the line source is selected.

7 Adjust the channel level. Start the CD player. Adjust stereo channel 1 LEVEL control until the average music level lights the channel meter blue 0 led with loudest peaks lighting the blue +6 led. If no signal is present check that the music source is playing and the correct input is selected.

Reduce LEVEL if the red +10 Led lights. This

indicator is a warning that the signal is approaching clipping and that distortion may result if the level increases further.

10 XONE:92 User Guide

8 Check the sound using the Cue system. With the music

playing press the large CUE switch. The switch lights as well as the CUE ACTIVE led to show that the cue monitor is active. The channel signal is now sent to the headphones. Slowly turn up the headphones level control until you hear the music.

Avoid listening to loud headphones levels for long

periods as this may damage your hearing.

The channel signal is now displayed on the main monitor meters. Note that the cue system lets you monitor the channel signals pre-fader. In other words you can check or cue any source before you raise its fader to bring it into the mix.

9 Route the signal to the main Mix 1 output. Release the CUE switch. The CUE light-pipe turns off and the headphones and monitor meters go quiet. Raise stereo channel 1 fader to its top position. With the XFADE toggle switch in its central position ‘OFF’ the signal is routed direct to the mix. The signal is now displayed on the main meters at the same level as the channel meter. The level is now the same throughout the console signal path, as set by the channel gain control. T his is the ideal setting with meters averaging 0dB so giving the best signal-to-noise performance while maintaining plenty of headroom to avoid clipping.

10 Li sten to the main MIX 1 output. The music should be heard in the headphones. If not, then check that the AUX 1 and AUX 2 switches are released and that no CUE switches are selected.

11 Check the effect of th e Stereo EQ. Try the effect of each of the 4 frequency bands on stereo ch annel 1. The EQ is designed for creative live performance control and provides a safe +6dB boost, and cut from a massive –30dB to infinity. Experiment with cutting rather than boosting frequencies to create dramatic effects.

12 Route through the Crossfader. Using the XFADE toggle switch, select X to route the signal through the crossfader rather than direct to the mix. The green 1 led l ights indicating that stereo channel 1 is assigned to the crossfader.

13 Using the Crossfader. This lets you fade between signals routed to either side, typically to fade smoothly into a new music track or to creatively layer sounds when scratch or cut mixing. Experiment further by connecting two CD decks or turntables and assigning one to X, the other to Y. The channel(s) assigned to the crossfader are indicated by the green leds above.

XONE:92 User Guide 11

14 Changing the crossfader cur ve. The control knob to

the left of the crossfader sets the crossfader curve. In the normal fully anticlockwise position the signal dips by 5dB at the middle position for smooth fading between tracks. Turn the knob clockwise gradually for an increas ingly dipless response; whereby the signal starts to dip only once the fader has passed the mid position. This is better suited to scratch or cut mixing where you layer the sounds.

15 Crossfader mixing. At this point you may wish to plu g in a pair of turntables and experiment with DJ mixing. Plu g into stereo channel 1 and channel 2 phono in puts if your turntables require RIAA equalisation. If not, plug into the line inputs. Remember to connect the turntable earth leads to the console chassis earth terminal. Use CUE to set up the channel level as you did in step 7. Route channel 1 to X and channel 2 to Y of the crossfader.

16 Adding VCF filter effects. Each side of the crossfader features a stereo Voltage Controlled Filter which presents the DJ with a unique set of live performance tools to create subtle or startling tonal effects. Route the channel to either of the two filters using the three way toggles; push the toggle to the left for filter 1 and to the right for filter 2. Activate the filter by pressing the FILTER ON switch. The blue led light-pipe lights to show that the filter is active. Check that the large LPF switch is illuminated indicating that the power up default lo-pass filter type is active. The sound should change to a rumbling bass line with higher frequencies removed.

17 Sweep the filter frequency. Turn the FREQ control clockwise and you should progressively hear higher audio frequencies returning to the mix. This control sweeps the effect from low to high frequency.

18 Adjust the filter resonance. Slowly turn the RESONANCE control clockwise as you sweep the frequency and you should hear the ‘Q’ or ‘sharpness’ of the effect changing from subtle to drastic as the roll-off knee sharpens and frequency boost is added.

Increasing resonance boosts a narrow band of selected frequencies. Make sure you reduce the channel gain if the red peak meters start to flash.

19 Change the filter type. Press one or any combination of

the large HPF, BPF and LPF filter type switches to experiment with different performance effects. For example pressing HPF and LPF together produces a notch effect. Once you are familiar with the creative power of these filters you can apply them to your performance. More information is available later.

Now…continue to read through the rest of this User Guide.

12 XONE:92 User Guide

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