Phonic HELIX BOARD 12 Plus User Manual

User’s Manual

Manual del Usuario

使用手册

HELIX BOARD 12 Plus

USB-enabled Mixing Console

Consola de Mezcla con Interfase USB

USB接口调音台

English / Español / 简体中文

HELIX BOARD 12 Plus

USB-enabled Mixing Console

Consola de Mezcla con Interfase USB

USB接口调音台

CONTENTS CONTENIDO

目录

Phonic preserves the right to improve or alter any information within this document without prior notice

Phonic se reserva el derecho de mejorar o alterar cualquier información provista dentro de este documento sin previo aviso

PHONIC保留不预先通知便可改变或更新本文件权利

V1.0 01/17/2009

INTRODUCTION 4
FEATURES  4
PACKAGE INCLUDES  4
INSTANT SETUP  5

Getting Strarted  5
Channel Setup  5

MAKING CONNECTIONS  6

Inputs and Outputs  6
Rear Panel  7

CONTROLS AND SETTINGS  7

Rear Panel  7
Channel Controls  8
Digital Effect Section  9
Master Section  9

USB INTERFACE  11

System Requirements  11
Driver Installation  11
Mac OSX Driver Installation 14
Channel Assignment  16
Operating With Daw Software

16
Windows Operation 17
MAC Operation 19

SPECIFICATIONS  21
DIGITAL EFFECT TABLE  63
APPLICATIONS 64
DIMENSIONS 66
BLOCK DIAGRAM 67

INTRODUCCIÓN



24

CARACTERISTICAS



24

EL PAQUETE INCLUYE



24

SETUP INSTANTE



25

Comenzando



25

Conguración de Canal



25

HACIENDO CONEXIONES



26

Entradas y Salidas



26

Panel Posterior



27

CONTROLES Y AJUSTES



27

Panel Posterior



27

Controles de Canal



28

Sección de Efectos Digitales



29

Sección Principal



29

INTERFASE USB



31

Requistos del Sistema



31
Instalación de los controladores31
Instalación de Driver Mac OSX34
Asignación del Canal



36
Operación Con Software DAW36
Operación Windows



37
Operación Mac



39

ESPECIFICACIONES



41

TABLA DE EFECTOS DIGITALES 63
APLICACIONES



64

DIMENSIONES



66

DIAGRAMA DE BLOQUE



67

简介 44
特色 44
包装清单 44
快速安装 45

开始设置 45
声道设置 45

连接设置 46

输入和输出 46
后面板 47

控制和设定 47

后面板 47
声道控制 48
数字效果控制区 49
主控制区 49

USB界面 51

系统要求 51
驱动程序安装 51
Macintosh OSX驱动安装

54
声道指定 56
使用DAW软件 56

Windows操作 57
MAC操作 59

规格 61
数字效果表 63
应用范例 64
尺寸 66
线路图 67

1. Read these instructions before operating this
apparatus.

2. Keep these instructions for future reference.

3. Heed all warnings to ensure safe operation.

4. Follow all instructions provided in this document.

5. Do not use this apparatus near water or in locations
where condensation may occur.

6. Clean only with dry cloth. Do not use aerosol or liquid
cleaners. Unplug this apparatus before cleaning.

7. Do not block any of the ventilation openings. Install
in accordance with the manufacturer

’

s instructions.

8. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators,
heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including

.

9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or
grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades
with one wider than the other. A grounding type plug
has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide
blade or the third prong is provided for your safety. If
the provided plug does not

into your outlet, consult

an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.

10. Protect the power cord from being walked on or
pinched particularly at plug, convenience receptacles,
and the point where they exit from the apparatus.

11. Only use attachments/accessories

by the

manufacturer.

12. Use only with a cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or
table

by the manufacturer, or sold with
the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution
when moving the cart/apparatus
combination to avoid injury from tip­over.

13. Unplug this apparatus during lighting
storms or when unused for long
periods of time.

14. Refer all servicing to

service personnel.
Servicing is required when the apparatus has been
damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or
plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects
have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has
been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate
normally, or has been dropped.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK,

DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK)

NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE

REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL

The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol, within an
equilateral triangle, is intended to alert the user to the
presence of uninsulated

“

dangerous voltage” within the

product

’

magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.

The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is in­tended to alert the user to the presence of important operat­ing and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature
accompanying the appliance.

WARNING: To reduce the risk of or electric shock, do
not expose this apparatus to rain or moisture.

CAUTION: Use of controls or adjustments or performance
of procedures other than those

may result in

hazardous radiation exposure.

The apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing and that no objects

with liquids, such as vases,
shall be placed on the apparatus. The MAINS plug is used as the disconnect device, the disconnect device shall
remain readily operable.

Warning: the user shall not place this apparatus in the

area during the operation so that the mains switch

can be easily accessible.

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

4 HELIX BOARD 12 PLUS

INTRODUCTION

Thank you purchasing the Helix Board 12 Plus, one of Phonic’s
newest mixers that sounds great and works hard both in and out
of the studio. The mixer features a USB 2.0 interface that can
stream up to 10 independent channels of audio to the computer
and return two tracks for monitoring, all at screaming fast transfer
rates of up to 24-bit/192 kHz. An onboard 40-bit digital multi-effect
processor provides 100 popular programs plus tap delay, test­tones and foot switch jacks.

There are 4 extremely low noise Mic preamps, each with phantom
power, spread across four mono channels and two stereo
channels, each featuring a 3-band EQ. Additional features include
two AUX sends, two stereo AUX returns, an extra ALT 3-4 stereo
mixing bus, Steinberg Cubase LE 4 digital audio workstation
software and an optional rack mounting kit.

We know how eager you are to get started – wanting to get the
mixer out and hook it up to your computer is probably your number
one priority right now – but before you do, we strongly urge you

to take a look through this manual. Inside, you will nd important

instructions and warnings on the set up, use and applications of
your brand new mixer. If you do happen to be one of the many

people who atly refuse to read user manuals, then we just urge

you to at least glance at the Instant Setup section. After glancing
at or reading through the manual (we applaud you if you do read
the manual in its entirety), please store it in a place that is easy for

you to nd, because chances are there’s something you missed
the rst time around.

FEATURES

• 12-input small-format analog mixer with extremely low noise

circuitry

• Onboard USB 2.0 interface for sending up to 10 independent

channels of audio to computer with near-zero latency

• Sampling rate selectable up to 192 kHz in 24-bit resolution

• A pre/post switch is available on each channel for swapping

channel sends to computer from pre-low cut, -EQ to post­EQ, post-fader signals

• DFX, our 32/40-bit digital multi-effect processor with 100

programs plus tap delay, tone generator and foot switch
jacks

• Two channels of monitoring from computer via USB

2.0 interface

• Channel 9/10 routed to computer can be selected from main

mix, ALT 3/4 and AUX 1/2

• Four mono Mic/Line channels

• Two stereo channels, two stereo AUX returns, two AUX

sends

• 3-band EQ on each channel

• 75 Hz low-cut lter on mono channel

• Inserts on channel 1 & 2

• +48V phantom power on Mic channels

• Stereo AUX send 1 cue for monitoring individual channel

• Master AUX section with EFX to Monitor

• Extra ALT 3-4 stereo bus

• Control room/Phones source matrix

• Balanced master output with 60 mm fader control

• High-volume headphone output

• Compatible with Mac OS X and Windows XP & Vista

• Steinberg's Cubase LE 4 workstation software included

PACKAGE INCLUDES

1 x Helix Board 12 Plus mixer
1 x USB cable
1 x DVD with drivers & Steinberg Cubase LE 4
1 x Power supply and cable
Optional: ER-12MUX rack mounting kit
If any items are missing from your package, please contact your
nearest Phonic dealer.

5HELIX BOARD 12 PLUS

INSTANT SETUP

Getting Started

1. Ensure all power is turned off on your mixer. To totally
ensure this, the power adapter should not be connected
to the unit.

2. All faders and level controls should be set at the lowest level
and all channels muted to ensure no sound is inadvertently
sent through the outputs when the device is switched on.
All levels can be altered to acceptable degrees after the
device is turned on using the channel setup instructions.

3. Plug any necessary equipment into the device’s various
inputs and outputs. This could include amplifiers and
speakers, monitors, signal processors, recording devices,
guitars, keyboards, microphones, and so on.

4. Plug the supplied power adapter into the power inlet on the
back of the device and then into a power outlet of a suitable
voltage.

5. Turn the power switch on and follow the channel setup
instructions to get the most out of your equipment.

Channel Setup

1. To ensure the correct audio level of the input channel is
selected, each of the level input controls of the Mixer should
be turned counter-clockwise or down as far as they will go
and the mute buttons should all be engaged.

2. No input other than the one being set should have any
device plugged in. This will ensure the purest signal is used
when setting channels.

3. Adjust the LEVEL and AUX 1 volume controls of the channel
you are setting to around the 2 o’clock mark. Also set the
Main L-R fader to the 0 dB mark.

4. Press the AUX 1 button on the Control Room Source section
down (making sure all others are released), allowing the
level meter to display the level of the channel being set.

5. Ensure the channel has a signal sent to it similar to the
signal that will be sent when in common use. For example,
if the channel is using a microphone, then you should speak
or sing at the same level the performer normally would
during a performance; if a guitar is plugged into the channel,
then the guitar should also be strummed as it normally
would be (and so on). This ensures levels are completely
accurate and avoids having to reset them later.

6. Set the channel’s gain so that the Level Meter indicates
the audio level is around 0 dB, ensuring the level never
reaches +5 dB.

7. This channel is now ready to be used; you can stop making
the audio signal.

8. You can now select another channel and repeat the same
process.

6 HELIX BOARD 12 PLUS

MAKING CONNECTIONS

Inputs and Outputs

1. XLR Microphone Jacks

These jacks accept typical 3-pin XLR
inputs for balanced and unbalanced
signals. They can be used in conjunction
with microphones – such as professional
condenser, dynamic or ribbon microphones

- with standard XLR male connectors, and

feature low noise preampliers, serving

for crystal clear sound replication. The
Helix Board 12 Plus mixers feature a
total of four standard XLR microphone
inputs.

NB. When these inputs are used with condenser microphones, the Phantom
Power should be activated. However, when Phantom Power button is
engaged, single ended (unbalanced) microphones and instruments should
not be used on the Mic inputs.

2. Line Inputs

This input accepts typical 1/4” TRS or TS inputs, for balanced or
unbalanced signals. They can be used in conjunction with various
line level devices, such as keyboards, drum machines, electric
guitars, and a variety of other electric instruments.

3. Stereo Channels

The Helix Board 12 Plus mixer features a couple
of stereo channels, thrown in for maximum

exibility. Each of these stereo channels features

two 1/4” TRS phone jacks, for the addition
of various line level input devices, such as
electronic keyboards, guitars and external signal
processors or mixers. These Stereo Channels
can also be used as Mono channels, where the
signal from any 1/4” phone jack plugged into the
Left stereo input will be duplicated to the Right
input due to the miracle of jack normalizing (this
does not work in reverse, however).

4. Stereo AUX Return

These 1/4” TS inputs are for the return of audio to the Helix Board
12 Plus mixer, processed by an external signal processor. If really
needed, they can also be used as additional stereo inputs, with
a level control located on the face of the mixer. The Stereo AUX
Return can also accept Mono signals, where plugging the 1/4”
phone jack of any device into the Left input will cause the signal
to be duplicated to the Right input also (this does not work in
reverse, however). Signals processed by the built-in digital effects
processor are cut-off when any 1/4” phone jack is plugged into
the AUX return 2.

5. AUX / Effects Send

These 1/4” TS outputs may be used to connect to an external digital

effect processor, or even to an amplier and speakers (depending

on your desired settings), to the mixer. The AUX send is a pre­fader signal, suitable for sending to monitors to allow performers to
monitor their music. The EFX send signal is post-fader, suitable
for sending to external effect processors, and then return back to
the AUX returns.

6. Main L and R Outputs

These two ports will output the nal stereo balanced line level

signal sent from the main mixing bus. The primary purpose of
these jacks is to send the main output to external devices, which

may include power ampliers (and in-turn, a pair of speakers),

other mixers, as well as a wide range of other possible signal
processors (equalizers, crossovers, etcetera).

7. Control Room Outputs

These two 1/4” Phone Jack outputs feed the signal altered by the
Control Room / Submix control on the face of the mixer. This output
has extensive use, as it can be used to feed the signal from the
mixer to an active monitor, enabling, for instance, the monitoring
of the audio signal from within a booth.

8. Phones

This stereo output port is suited for use with headphones, allowing
monitoring of the mix. The audio level of this output is controlled
using the Control Room / Submix rotary control.

9. Record Out

These outputs will accommodate RCA
cables, able to be fed to a variety of
recording devices.

10. 2T Return

This stereo RCA input is used to connect
the mixer with external devices, such as
tape and CD players, and feeds the signal
to the Main L-R mixing bus.

7HELIX BOARD 12 PLUS

Rear Panel

11. Channel Inserts

Located on the rear of the Helix Board, the primary use for these
TRS phone jacks is for the addition of external devices, such
as dynamic processors or equalizers, to mono input channels
1 and 2. This will require a Y cord that can send (pre-fader and
pre-EQ) and receive signals to and from an external processor.
On this connection, the tip pin is for sending the signal, whereas
the ring pin is for return. The sleeve pin, on the other hand, is
the ground.

12. ALT 3-4 Output

The signal sent from these 1/4” outputs is fed from the ALT 3-4
mixing bus, and can be used in conjunction with a large array of
devices, including signal processors, other PA systems, recording
devices, and so on.

13. Foot Switch Jacks

These ports are for the inclusion of a foot switch, used to remotely
adjust properties of the built-in Digital Effect processor, to the mixer.
The left jack is used to adjust the tap delay properties, whereas
the right jack is used for turning the effects on and off.

14. USB 2.0 Connection

This USB 2.0 port is for connecting the Helix
Board to any PC or Macintosh computer. It
allows all 8 input channels to be streamed to
a computer, as well as an additional stereo
channel (when operating at 96 kHz or under).
A stereo audio channel from the computer
can also be returned to the Helix Board for
monitoring. The audio sent to the computer
can be either pre- or post-fader, depending on
the pre/post setting on each input channel. The
main left and right signal, AUX signal and ALT
3/4 (all of which can also be sent through the USB interface) are
pre-fader signals. The returned USB signal can be utilized in the
USB Return section on the face of the mixer.

15. Power Connector

This port is for the addition of a power cable and
supply, allowing power to be supplied to the mixer.
Please use the external power supply that is
included with this mixer only as using other adaptors
could damage the mixer. For a replacement supply,
contact your nearest Phonic dealer.

CONTROLS AND SETTINGS

Rear Panel

16. Power Switch

This switch is used to turn the mixer on and
off. Ensure you turn all level controls down
before activating.

17. Phantom Power Switch

When this switch is in the on position, it
activates +48V of phantom power for all
microphone inputs, allowing condenser microphones (well, the
ones that don’t use batteries) to be used on these channels.
Activating Phantom Power will be accompanied by an illuminated
LED above the left channel Level Meter. Before turning Phantom
Power on, turn all level controls to a minimum to avoid the
possibility of a ghastly popping sound from the speakers.

NB. Phantom Power should be used in conjunction with balanced
microphones. When Phantom Power is engaged, single ended (unbalanced)
microphones and instruments should not be used on the Mic inputs.
Phantom Power will not cause damage to most dynamic microphones,
however if unsure, the microphone’s user manual should be consulted.

16

17

8 HELIX BOARD 12 PLUS

Channel Controls

18. Low Cut Filter (75 Hz)

This button, located on channels 1 through
to 4, will activate a low-cut / high-pass

lter that reduces all frequencies below

75 Hz at 18 dB per Octave, helping to
remove any unwanted ground noise or
stage rumble.

19. Mic / Line Gain Control

This controls the sensitivity of the input signal of the Microphone
/ Line input. The gain should be adjusted to a level that allows
the maximum use of the audio, while still maintaining the quality
of the feed, based on the channel setup instructions. This can
be accomplished by adjusting it to a level that will allow the peak
indicator occasionally illuminate. All 4 mono channels feature
this control.

20. High Frequency Control

This control is used to give a shelving boost or cut of ±15 dB to high
frequency (12 kHz) sounds. This will adjust the amount of treble
included in the audio of the channel, adding strength and crispness
to sounds such as guitars, cymbals, and synthesizers.

21. Middle Frequency Control

This control is used to provide a peaking style of boost and cut
to the level of middle frequency (2.5 kHz) sounds at a range of
±15 dB. Changing middle frequencies of an audio feed can be

rather difcult when used in a professional audio mix, as it is

often more desirable to cut middle frequency sounds rather than
boost them, thereby soothing overly harsh vocal and instrument
sounds in the audio.

22. Low Frequency Control

This control is used to give a shelving boost or cut of ±15 dB to
low frequency (80 Hz) sounds. This will adjust the amount of bass
included in the audio of the channel, and bring more warmth and
punch to drums and bass guitars.

23. USB Pre/Post Switch

This switch is used to change the signal of the corresponding
channel that is sent to the Computer via the USB interface between
that of a pre-EQ, pre-fader, pre-low cut to that of a post-EQ, post­fader, post-low cut. In the uppermost position, the channel will be
pre, and in the lower position post.

24. AUX 1 (Monitor) Control

This control allows the user to send the corresponding signal
to the AUX 1 output, which can be used in conjunction with an

amplier and studio or stage monitors, or simply as an auxiliary

output for any means required. The control is pre-fader, therefore
any changes made to the corresponding channel level control do
not affect the AUX 1 send signal.

25. AUX 2 (Effects) Control

This control alters the signal level that is sent to the AUX 2 (or
EFX) send output, which can be used in conjunction with external
signal processors (this signal of which can be returned to mixer via
the AUX return input, or any stereo input channel), or simply as an
auxiliary output for any means required. This control is post-fader,
therefore any changes made to the corresponding channel level
control are also applied to the EFX signal. The EFX send signal
is also sent to the built-in effect processor for providing effects to
the main output and AUX 1 send, as required.

26. Pan / Balance Controls

This alternates the degree or level of audio that the left and right
side of the main mix should receive. On mono channels, this
control will adjust the level that the left and right should receive
(pan), where as on a stereo channel, adjusting the BAL control will
attenuate the left or right audio signals accordingly (balance).

27. Mute / ALT 3-4

This handy little button is basically a typical mute button – effectively
stopping any signal received by the channel from being sent to
the Main L/R or AUX 2 send mixing buses – however it does so
much more. Pushing this button routes the channel’s signal away
from the Main L/R and to its own “Alternate” stereo output (Alt
3-4), where the signal can be used at will. If you wish to use it to

connect an amplier and speakers, or simply patch it through to

an unused input channel, you can easily do so.

28. Peak Indicator

This LED indicator will illuminate when the device hits high peaks,
6 dB before overload occurs. It is best to adjust the gain of the
channel so that the PEAK indicator lights up on intervals only. This
will ensure a greater dynamic range of audio. This LED will light
up while the Mute button is pushed in.

29. Level Control

This rotary control will alter the signal level that is sent from the
corresponding channel to the Main or Alt. 3-4 mixing bus.

9HELIX BOARD 12 PLUS

30. +4 / -10 Switch

This button, located on both stereo input
channels, is used adjust the input sensitivity of
the corresponding channels, which will adapt the
mixer to external devices which may use different
operating levels. If the input source is -10 dBV
(consumer audio level), it is best to engage the
switch, allowing the signal to be heard. The +4
dBu level is suitable for Professional Audio signals, which are
considerably higher than the consumer level. However, if you
are unsure of the source’s operating level, we suggest leaving
the switch disengaged until you test the source’s signal. You
can then engage if necessary (if the level of the input signal is
obviously too low).

Digital Effect Section

31. Digital Effect Display

This 2-digital numeric display shows the program number that is
currently applied to your EFX audio signal. When you rotate the
Program control, you can scroll through different program numbers.
The display will revert back to the original program if a new program
is not selected within a few seconds. For a list of available effects,
please observe the Digital Effect Table.

32. Sig and Clip Indicators

Located within the Digital Effect Display are Clip and Sig LEDs.
The Sig LED will light up when any signal is received by the effect
processor, and the Clip LED will light up shortly before excessive
signals are dynamically clipped. If the Clip LED lights up too often,
it may be advisable to turn down the AUX 2/EFX control on one or
all input channels to ensure the signal level is not excessive.

33. Program Control

This control is used to scroll through the various effects. Turning
the control clockwise will allow users to ascend into higher program
numbers, and turning it counter-clockwise will allow users to
descend into lower program numbers. Pushing this control will
apply the new effect. When a tap delay effect is selected, pressing
this control will allow users to select the tap-delay time. By pushing
the button several times, the effect processor interprets the time
between last two pushes and remembers this as the delay time
– until the button is pushed again. This is kept (even after the
power is turned off). When the tap delay effect is selected, a

small LED will ash within the digital effect display window at the

selected intervals.

Master Section

34. AUX Stereo Return Controls

These controls adjust the signal level of audio fed through to
the AUX Stereo Return inputs, which will be added to the MAIN
L-R mix. The AUX Return 2 control also acts as a level control
for the EFX processor when no device is plugged into the AUX
2 Return inputs.

35. EFX to Monitor Button

This button allows users to select the destination of the AUX
Return 2 signal. Pushing it in sends the signal to the AUX Send
1 mixing bus.

Hint: Use this button to send your EFX signal to the AUX 1 mix. You can
then send your AUX 1 and 2 mix to the computer as your additional stereo
mix. This will allow you to record your EFX!

36. AUX Send 1 Master Control

This control will adjust the nal output level for the AUX send

output, the signal of which is taken from the AUX 1 controls on
each input channel.

37. USB Source Select

This switch determines which of the Helix Board’s signals will be
used for the 9th and 10th channels sent through the USB interface
to the computer. Users can choose to send the stereo signal from
AUX 1/2, ALT 3/4 or the Main mix through the USB interface.

38. USB Trim Control and Indicator

This trim control can be used to adjust the level of the outgoing USB
signal from channel 9/10 (which will be received by the computer).
If the input signals received by your computer are noticeably
excessive, using this control could help to attenuate the signal to
an acceptable degree. The accompanying LED will illuminate when
a connection is established through the USB interface.

39. Control Room Buttons

Engaging any of these four buttons will enable you to use the
signal from any of the corresponding sources to send to the Control
Room mixing bus and the LED Level Meter for level monitoring.
For instance, pressing USB & 2T Rtn button will allow you to send
the 2 Track Return signal and the signal received through the USB
interface to the Control Room Outputs (the level of which will be
visible on the Level Meter), where as the Main L-R will allow you
to use the Main Left/Right signal, the AUX 1 allows you to use the
AUX 1 signal, and the ALT 3-4 allows you to use the “Alternate”
stereo mix bus signal. You can even use a combination of all these
signals, if need be.

10 HELIX BOARD 12 PLUS

40. Assign to Main Button

When the “Assign to Main” button is engaged, the USB/2T
Return and Alternative 3-4 signals can be selected by using the
corresponding buttons, and are, intern, sent to the Main L-R
and Control Room mixing buses via the Control Room / Submix
control. This can come in handy when you want play a CD during
intermission in a live show, as this allows users to send the signals
from the USB interface, 2T RTN and/or ALT 3-4 to the main left
and right outputs. If you have the Main L-R or AUX 1 buttons on
the Control Room Source section engaged, the corresponding
signals will not be sent to the control room and headphones output
by the use of this button.

41. Control Room / Submix Control

This control is used to adjust the audio level of the Control
Room feed, which is sent to both the Control Room outputs (for

monitoring, acting as side ll or other purposes) and Phones

outputs (to be used in conjunction with headphones for monitoring
purposes). It also acts as the “Submix” control, which allows the
user to adjust the level of the signals selected by the Control Room
Source when the Assign to Main button is engaged.

42. Main Level Fader

This 60mm fader is nal level control for the main left and right

audio feed, sent to the Main L and R output.

43. Level Meter

The stereo 8-segment level meter gives an accurate indication of
when audio levels of the selected Control Room source(s) reach
certain levels. It is suggested for the maximum use of audio to

set the various levels controls so that the Peak LEDs ash only

occasionally (and perhaps it is better if you ensure the level stays
around a pinch below that).

44. +48 Indicator

The +48 Indicator illuminates whenever the Phantom Power
switch is activated.

45. Power Indicator
The Power Indicator will light up when the power of the mixer
is on.

11HELIX BOARD 12 PLUS

USB Interface

System Requirements

The following are the minimum required specications for use with the Helix Board 12 Plus.

If your computer does not meet these requirements, you will experience lagging of audio and possible freezing of your computer when
attempting to operate the Helix Board.

Windows

• Microsoft® Windows® XP (with SP2 or SP3) or Microsoft® Windows® Vista

• Available USB 2.0 port

• Intel Pentium® 4 processor or equivalent AMD Athlon processor

• Motherboard with Intel or VIA chipset

• 5400 RPM or faster hard disk drive (7200 RPM or faster with 8 MB cache recommended)

• 256 MB or more of RAM (512 MB recommended)

Macintosh

• OS X Leopard 10.5.1 or later with USB support

• Intel Core 2 Duo or later processor (G4 processors are not supported)

• 256 MB or more of RAM (512 MB or more recommended)

Driver Installation

To use the Helix Board efciently (or at all) on any computer, it is important to install all the necessary drivers from the included DVD.

We advise that users read all instructions carefully before continuing on to each step of the installation process, as they will be asked to
disconnect and reconnect their Helix Board.

Windows XP (with Service Pack 2 or higher)

1. It is recommended that you quit all applications before starting the installation process.

2. Connect the Helix Board to the computer, leaving the power of the unit off.

3. Insert the installation DVD included with your Helix Board into the DVD-ROM drive of your computer. If the DVD does not automatically

start the installation process within a few moments, then navigate to “My Computer” → your DVD-ROM drive → “HelixBoard12Plus_Driver”
→ double-click “setup.exe” to begin the installation manually. The Helix Board Control Panel software also will be installed at this time.

4. Follow the on-screen installation instructions, turning the Helix Board on when asked to ‘disconnect and reconnect’ the unit.

Make sure no other programs are running on your PC and click “Next”.

12 HELIX BOARD 12 PLUS

Read and accept the terms of the License Agreement and click “Next” to continue.

Either select a new destination for the installation, or else click “Install” to accept the default directory.

The installation will then commence.

13HELIX BOARD 12 PLUS

Connect the Helix Board to the computer and push ‘Finish’ to complete the installation.

If a message is displayed indicating that the software has not passed

Windows Logo test, click “Continue Anyway.”

After installation is complete, an installation complete message

will appear on screen. Click ‘Finish’ to exit.

14 HELIX BOARD 12 PLUS

Mac OSX Driver Installation

1. It is recommended that you quit all applications before starting the installation process.

2. Do not connect the Helix Board to the Mac until after you have installed the driver.

3. Insert the installation disc into the DVD drive of your computer. If the DVD does not automatically start the installation process,

navigate to your DVD drive → “Phonic” → “Helix Board-USB” → then run “PHONIC_HelixBoardUSB.mpkg” to begin the installation

manually. The Helix Board Control Panel software also will be installed at this time.

4. Follow the on-screen installation instructions.

5. After installing the Mac driver, connect the Helix Board to the Mac’s USB port.

Select “Change Install Location...” to select a new destination for the Mac software. If not, the

software will automatically be installed to the default location.

15HELIX BOARD 12 PLUS

Click ‘Close’ once the installation has completed.

16 HELIX BOARD 12 PLUS

Channel Assignment

When using a Digital Audio Workstation on a PC, and within the
included Phonic Helix Board control panel software, the following
names have been attributed to the input channels of the Helix
Board.

If you would like to use the Helix Board as your default audio output
device on your PC, simply go into the Windows control panel and
select “Sound and Audio Devices.” Select the Audio tab, and use
the pull-down menu to select one of the Helix Board’s inputs from
the list of available output devices. The Helix Board can also be
selected as the default output device for individual programs by
editing said programs’ settings / options.

Operating With DAW Software

After successfully completing the installation process, the following

process must be followed to work efciently with the Helix Board.

In the following example, we are using Cubase LE 4 (included
with the Helix Board 12 Plus) - however most other DAW software
should be similar.

1. Open the program.

2. Go to the ‘Devices’ pull-down menu and select ‘Device Setup’.

On the left, select ‘VST Multitrack’.

3. From the ASIO Driver drop-down list select the ‘Helix Board

ASIO Driver’. A pop-up box will ask you if you want to switch
to the ASIO driver. Click ‘Switch’. This completes the basic
setup.

4. The following steps should be followed to activate audio tracks

received from or sent by the Helix Board.
a. Go to the “devices” pull-down menu and select ‘VST Inputs’.

This will display the various inputs (“Analog In 1”, “Analog
In 2”, etc.)

b. Activate channels by clicking the “Active” button located next

to each channel name.

5. For further instructions on the operation of Cubase, please

consult the owner’s manual by pressing F1 while the program
is open.

If you wish to reset the Helix Board ASIO driver, simply go to
the ‘devices’ pull-down menu and select ‘device setup’. Simply
click ‘reset’ and select the ‘Helix Board ASIO Driver’. Click ‘ok’
to continue and the Helix Board should once again become
functional.

Computer Input Channel Name Mixer Channel
HB 12 Plus CH 1 Channel 1
HB 12 Plus CH 2 Channel 2
HB 12 Plus CH 3 Channel 3
HB 12 Plus CH 4 Channel 4
HB 12 Plus CH 5 Channel 5 (Stereo L)
HB 12 Plus CH 6 Channel 6 (Stereo R)
HB 12 Plus CH 7 Channel 7 (Stereo L)
HB 12 Plus CH 8 Channel 8 (Stereo R)
HB 12 Plus Main L
HB 12 Plus Main R

17HELIX BOARD 12 PLUS

Windows Operation

The Helix Board control panel on the PC can be accessed at
any time by entering choosing the shortcut from your Programs
menu. This program will not only allow users to alter their device
and channel names and properties, but will also let them adjust
buffer settings, change sampling rates, and so forth.

Sample Rate

In this menu, users are able to adjust the sampling rate of the
Helix Board. The sampling rate can be chosen between 44.1, 48,

88.2, 96, 176.4 and 192 kHz. Press ‘apply’ once a new sampling
rate is selected.

Buffer Settings

The Buffer Settings menu is used to adjust the Streaming Buffer,
as well as the buffer settings when using the ASIO and WDM
drivers.
The ‘Streaming Buffer’ can be adjusted between Minimum (1
millisecond), Small (2 milliseconds), Large (4 milliseconds) and
Maximum (8 milliseconds). The selection of the Streaming Buffer
size will determine the size of the ASIO and WDM buffer sizes,
as displayed in the table at the bottom of this page.
When selecting a new buffer size, users can click ‘Apply’ to apply
the newly selected buffer setting to the device.

Devices / Device0

In the Devices section, users are able to view and edit the name
of any Phonic USB Devices connected to the computer. There are
also two driver-integrated mixers that users are able to utilize to
better customize their input/output levels to suit their computer.

Hardware Inputs Mixer

This software-based mixer allows users to adjust levels and routing
options of all input signals received from the Helix Board. All of
the outputs from this mixer can then be utilized by DAW and other
suitable applications.

Level meters are incorporated into the mixing software. Users are
given visual depictions of current incoming and outgoing signals
from this software mixer.

18 HELIX BOARD 12 PLUS

Software Inputs Mixer

This mixer allows users to monitor and adjust the levels (and
routing) of the output signals from the PC to the Helix Board. Like
the Hardware Inputs Mixer, users are able to adjust volume levels
and mute output tracks as necessary. Also like the Hardware
mixer, level meters are provided on the software mixer’s inputs
and outputs.

Input Channels

The Input Channels section allows users to view and edit the
name of the various input channels received from the USB input.
Please note that the channel names used in the picture below
may differ from your unit’s.

Output Channels
By entering the Output Channels section, users can view and edit

the names of the two analog output channels that are sent from
the computer to the Helix Board.

Driver Information

This section allows users to check the version of their currently
used driver and the interface. New drivers will be made available
from time to time on the Phonic document center, and an
announcement will usually be made on the Phonic home page.

19HELIX BOARD 12 PLUS

Mac Operation

After installing the Helix Board driver and software to your Mac
computer, enter the Audio MIDI Setup application and you should
be able to select the Phonic Helix Board as your default input and
output device.

Also in the Audio MIDI Setup, you will be able to adjust volume
levels of your various input and output signals, as well as the
sampling rate and resolution you want to use. Users are able to
select between 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4 and 192 kHz sampling
rates. Resolution can be selected between 24-bit, 20-bit and 16­bit. Both the sampling rate and resolution can be adjusted in your
DAW software as well (depending on what software you use).

Also in the Audio MIDI Setup, tracks can be muted at will. The
input and output channel names listed correspond with each of
the Helix Board’s input and outputs. Channels 1 to 8 on the input
correspond, naturally, with inputs 1 through 8 on the Helix Board.
Input 9 and 10 will correspond with the stereo signal selected
using the USB source select switch (“AUX 1/2, ALT 3/4, MAIN”)
on the Helix Board.

The output channels 1 to 2 are the stereo mix from the
computer.

Helix Board Control Panel

As many of the Helix Board’s features are adjustable through the
Audio MIDI Setup section, the Helix Board Control Panel serves

a few very specic purposes. As seen in the image below, the

main page of the software allows users to view a few important
details on the product, including the driver version, serial number,
etc. Users can also select one of the two internal mixers that the
Helix Board’s software offers.

Monitor Mixer

The Monitor Mixer, in essence, allows you to adjust your Helix
Board’s input signals before sending them off to your DAW
software. All of the inputs are listed. You can opt to adjust
your device’s input signals in this mixer, or you can just opt to
leave it alone all together and rely on your DAW software’s level
controls.

20 HELIX BOARD 12 PLUS

Playback Mixer

The control panel software also offers a Playback Mixer. This is
the ‘software mixer’, allowing users to adjust the signal they send
out to the Helix Board’s outputs. All of the output signals from your
DAW software can be adjusted individually before being sent out
their respective outputs on the Helix Board.

As with the Monitor Mixer, each of the listed output channels is
representative of one of the Helix Board’s output channels.

S/PDIF Pass Through

Also included on the Helix Board Control Panel is the SPDIF Pass
Through function. This basically allows you to send your S/PDIF

input signals directly out through from the computer to the Firey’s

S/PDIF outputs.

21HELIX BOARD 12 PLUS

SPECIFICATIONS

Inputs

Total channels 6
Balanced Mono Mic/Line channel 4
Balanced Stereo Line Channel 2
AUX Return 2 Stereo
2T Input Stereo RCA

Outputs

Main L/R Stereo 2 x 1/4” TRS, Bal.
ALT 3-4 2 x 1/4” TRS, Bal.
Rec Out with trim control Stereo RCA
CTRL RM L/R 2 x 1/4” TS
Phones 1

USB 2.0 Interface

10 in & 2 out, 24-bit / 96 kHz
8 in & 2 out, 24-bit / 192 kHz

Channel Strips 6
Insert Points 2
AUX Send 2

Pan/Balance Control Yes
Volume Controls Rotary

Master Section

Stereo AUX Returns 2
Effects Return to Monitor 1
Control Room/Phones Level Control Yes
Faders Main L/R, 60mm fader

Metering

Number of Channels 2
Segments 8
Phantom Power Supply +48VDC
Switches Master

Effect Processor

100 programs plus tap delay;
foot switch (effect on/off, tap)

Frequency Response (Mic input to any output)

20Hz ~ 60KHz +0/-1 dB
20Hz ~ 100KHz +0/-3 dB
Crosstalk (1KHz @ 0dBu, 20Hz to 20KHz bandwidth, channel in to main L/R outputs)
Channel fader down, other channels at unity <-90 dB

Noise (20Hz~20KHz; measured at main output, Channels 1-4 unit gain; EQ at; all channels on main mix;

channels 1/3 as far left as possible, channels 2/4 as far right as possible. Reference=+6dBu)
Master @ unity, channel fader down -86.5 dBu
Master @ unity, channel fader @ unity -84 dBu
S/N ration, ref to +4 >90 dB

22 HELIX BOARD 12 PLUS

Microphone Preamp E.I.N.
(150 ohms terminated, max gain)

<-129.5 dBm

THD (Any output, 1KHz @ +14dBu, 20Hz to 20KHz,
channel inputs)

<0.005%

CMRR (1 KHz @ -60dBu, Gain at maximum) 80 dB

Maximum Level

Mic preamp input +10 dBu
All other input +22 dBu
Balanced output +28 dBu

Impedance

Mic preamp input 2 K ohms
All other inputs (except insert) 10 K ohms
RCA 2T output 1.1 K ohms
Equalization 3-band, +/-15 dB
Low EQ 80 Hz
Mid EQ 2.5 KHz
Hi EQ 12 KHz
Low cut lter 75Hz (-18dB/oct)

Power Requirement

(external power supply, depends on region)

100VAC, 120VAC, 220~240VAC, 50/60Hz

Physical

Net Weight 2.9 kg (6.4 lbs)
Dimensions (WxHxD)

245.4 x 86 x 271.3 mm
(9.7” x 3.4” x 10.7”)

66 HELIX BOARD 12 PLUS

measurements are shown in mm/inches

DIMENSIONS DIMENSIONES 尺寸

Todas las medidas están mostradas en mm/pulgadas.

尺寸是以毫米

mm/英寸inch

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245.4/9.7
240/9.5

86/3.4

81.5/3.21
66/2.6

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62

67HELIX BOARD 12 PLUS

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[e-mail] http://www.phonic.com

CÓMO COMPRAR EQUIPO ADICIONAL
Y ACCESORIOS DE PHONIC

Para comprar equipos y accesorios opcionales de
Phonic, póngase en contacto con cualquiera de los
distribuidores autorizados de Phonic. Para una lista
de los distribuidores de Phonic visite nuestra página
web en www.phonic.com y entre a la sección Get
Gear. También, puede ponerse en contacto directa

­mente con Phonic y le ayudaremos a encontrar un
distribuidor cerca de usted.

SERVICIO Y REPARACIÓN

Para refacciones de reemplazo y reparaciones, por
favor póngase en contacto con nuestro distribuidor
de Phonic en su país. Phonic no distribuye manuales
de servicio directamente a los consumidores y, avisa
a los usuarios que no intenten hacer cualquier
reparación por si mismo, haciendo ésto invalidará
todas las garantías del equipo. Puede encontrar un
distribuidor cerca de usted en

http://www.phonic.com/where/.

INFORMACIÓN DE LA GARANTIA

Phonic respalda cada producto que hacemos con
una garantía sin enredo. La cobertura de garantía
podría ser ampliada dependiendo de su región.
Phonic Corporation garantiza este producto por un
mínimo de un año desde la fecha original de su
compra, contra defectos en materiales y mano de
obra bajo el uso que se instruya en el manual del
usuario. Phonic, a su propia opinión, reparará o
cambiará la unidad defectuosa que se encuentra
dentro de esta garantía. Por favor, guarde los recibos
de venta con la fecha de compra como evidencia de
la fecha de compra. Va a necesitar este comprobante
para cualquier servicio de garantía. No se aceptarán
reparaciones o devoluciones sin un número RMA
apropiado (return merchandise autorization). En
orden de tener esta garantía válida, el producto
deberá de haber sido manejado y utilizado como se
describe en las instrucciones que acompañan esta
garantía. Cualquier atentado hacia el producto o
cualquier intento de repararlo por usted mismo,
cancelará completamente esta garantía. Esta
garantía no cubre daños ocasionados por acciden­tes, mal uso, abuso o negligencia. Esta garantía es
válida solamente si el producto fue comprado nuevo
de un representante/distribuidor autorizado de
Phonic. Para la información completa acerca de la
política de garantía, por favor visite
http://www.phonic.com/warranty/.

SERVICIO AL CLIENTE Y SOPORTE
TÉCNICO

Le invitamos a que visite nuestro sistema de ayuda
en línea en www.phonic.com/support/. Ahí podrá
encontrar respuestas a las preguntas más frecuen

­tes, consejos técnicos, descarga de drivers, instruc

­ciones de devolución de equipos y más información
de mucho interés. Nosotros haremos todo el
esfuerzo para contestar sus preguntas lo antes
posible.

TO PURCHASE ADDITIONAL
PHONIC GEAR AND ACCESSO­RIES

To purchase Phonic gear and optional
accessories, contact any authorized
Phonic distributor. For a list of Phonic
distributors please visit our website at
www.phonic.com and click on Get Gear.
You may also contact Phonic directly and
we will assist you in locating a distributor
near you.

SERVICE AND REPAIR

For replacement parts, service and repairs
please contact the Phonic distributor in
your country. Phonic does not release
service manuals to consumers, and advice
users to not attempt any self repairs, as
doing so voids all warranties. You can
locate a dealer near you at

http://www.phonic.com/where/.

WARRANTY INFORMATION

Phonic stands behind every product we
make with a no-hassles warranty.
Warranty coverage may be extended,
depending on your region. Phonic Corpo

­ration warrants this product for a minimum
of one year from the original date of
purchase against defects in material and
workmanship under use as instructed by
the user’s manual. Phonic, at its option,
shall repair or replace the defective unit
covered by this warranty. Please retain the
dated sales receipt as evidence of the date
of purchase. You will need it for any
warranty service. No returns or repairs will
be accepted without a proper RMA number
(return merchandise authorization). In
order to keep this warranty in effect, the
product must have been handled and used
as prescribed in the instructions accompa

­nying this warranty. Any tempering of the
product or attempts of self repair voids all
warranty. This warranty does not cover
any damage due to accident, misuse,
abuse, or negligence. This warranty is
valid only if the product was purchased
new from an authorized Phonic
dealer/distributor. For complete warranty
policy information, please visit
http://www.phonic.com/warranty/.

CUSTOMER SERVICE AND
TECHNICAL SUPPORT

We encourage you to visit our online help
at http://www.phonic.com/support/. There
you can find answers to frequently asked
questions, tech tips, driver downloads,
returns instruction and other helpful
information. We make every effort to
answer your questions within one business
day.

购买Phonic产 品 及其周边

器材

使用者如需购买Phonic产品及其周边
器材，请与Phonic授权的经销商取得
联 系 。 访 问 我 们 的 网 站
www.phonic.com，点击 Get Gear 即
可查询 Phonic地 区经销 商的联 系方
式。您也可直接联系Phonic公司，我
们将协助您快速定位离您最近的经销
商。

服务与维修

订购替换零件或维修事宜，请与您所
在地区的Phonic经销商联系。Phonic
不对使用者发行维修手册，且建议使
用者切勿擅自维修机器，否则将无法
获 得 任 何 保 固 服 务 。 您 可 登 录
http://www.phonic.com/where/定位离
您最近的经销商。

产品保固资讯

Phonic承诺对每项产品提供最完善的
保固服务。我们将根据客户群体所在
的地区来拓展我们的服务所涵盖的范
围。自原始购买日起，Phonic即对在
严格遵照使用说明书的操作规范下，
因产品材质和做工所产生的问题提供
至少 1年的 保固服务。 Phonic可在此
保固范围内任意地选择维修或更换缺
陷产品。请务必妥善保管购买产品的
凭证， 以 此获得 保固服 务 。未获 得
RMA号的将不受理退货，以及保固服
务。保固服务只限于正常使用情况下
产生的问题。使用者需严格遵照使用
说明书正确使用，任何肆意损坏或擅
自维修机器，意外事故，错误使用，
人为疏 忽 ，都将 不在保 固 受理范 围
内。此外，担保维修只限于在授权经
销商处的有效购买。欲知全部的保固
政 策 资 讯 ， 请 参 考
http://www.phonic.com/warranty/。

客户服务和技术支持

欢 迎 您 访 问 我 们 的 网 站
http://www.phonic.com/support/。从
该网站上，您可获得各种常见问题的
答案， 技 术指导 ，并可 下 载产品 驱
动，获得有关退货指导以及其它帮助
资讯。我们竭尽全力在一个工作日内
回复您的询问。