Phonic Helix Board 17 User Manual

Helix Board 17

COMPACT MIXER WITH USB INTERFACE

English

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

The apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing and that no objects ﬁlled 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 conﬁned area during the operation so that the mains switch can be easily accessible.

1. Re ad the se i ns tr uc ti on s be fo re o pe ra ti ng t hi s apparatus

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 occu

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 manufacture

8. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat ampliﬁers) that produce heat

9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type with has blade the an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet

r’s instructions.

registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including

plug. A polarized plug has two blades

one wider than the other. A grounding type plug

two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide

or the third prong is provided for your safety. If

provided plug does not ﬁt into your outlet, consult

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK,

T REMOVE COVER (OR BACK)

DO NO

NO USER SE

REFER SE

The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol, within an

equilateral

presence

produc

magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons

exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is in-

The

tended

and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature

ing

accompanying the appliance

WARNING: To reduce the risk of ﬁre or electric shock, do

not expose this apparatus to rain or moisture.

RVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE

RVICING TO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL

triangle, is intended to alert the user to the

of uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within the

t’s enclosure that may be of sufﬁcient

to alert the user to the presence of important operat-

10.

Protect the power cord from being walked on or

pinched and the point where they exit from the apparatus

particularly at plug, convenience receptacles,

11. Only use attachments/accessories speciﬁed by the manufacture

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

speciﬁed by the manufacturer, or sold with

table the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution

mov in g th e cart/apparatus

wh en combination

ove

to avoid injury from tip-

13. Unplug this apparatus during lighting

or ms o r when unused for lon g

st periods of time

14. Refer all servicing to qualiﬁed service personnel. Servicing damaged plug have been normall

is required when the apparatus has been in any way, such as power-supply cord or

is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects

fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate

y, or has been dropped.

CAUTION: Use

of controls or adjustments or performance

of procedures other than those speciﬁed may result in

hazardous radiation exposure.

HELIX BOARD 17

COMPACT MIXER WITH USB INTERFACE

TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION...........................................................................................................................4

FEATURES....................................................................................................................................4

GETTING STARTED .....................................................................................................................

Basic Setup .............................................................................................................................5

Channel Setup ..........................................................................................................................

MAKING CONNECTIONS.............................................................................................................6

CONTROLS AND SETTINGS .......................................................................................................7

USB INTERFACE ........................................................................................................................ 11

Precautions .............................................................................................................................11

Operating System ..................................................................................................................

APPLICATION ............................................................................................................................. 12

DIGITAL EFFECT TABLE ............................................................................................................ 13

SPECIFICATIONS ....................................................................................................................... 14

BLOCK DIAGRAM.......................................................................................................................16

.11

DIMENSIONS.............................................................................................................................. 17

Phonic reserves the right to improve or alter any information supplied within this document without prior notice.

V1.1 11/14. 2005

INTRODUCTION

FEATURES

Thank you for choosing one of Phonic’s many quality products. The Helix Board 17 Compact Mixers with USB interface – designed by the ingenious engineers that have created a variety of mixers fantastic in style and performance in the past – display similar proﬁ ciency that previous Phonic products have shown; with more than a few reﬁ nements, of course. The Helix Board 17 features full

ranges, amazingly low distortion levels, and incredibly

gain wide dynamic ranges, just showing the dominance these small machines will have in the mixing World.

We know how eager you are to get started – wanting to get the mixer out and hook it all up 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 ﬁ nd important facts and ﬁ gures on the set up, use and applications of your brand new mixer. If you do happen to be one of the many people who ﬂ 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 entire manual), please store it in a place that is easy for you to ﬁ nd, because chances are there’s something you missed the ﬁ rst time around.

Audiophile-quality & ultra low noise

5 Mic/Line channels with inserts and phantom power

3 stereo channels with 4-band EQ

3-band EQ with swept mid-range plus low cut on each mono channel

2 Aux sends, one with Pre/Post switch

24-bit digital stereo multi-effect processor with 16 pro-

plus one main parameter control, tap control and

grams foot switch

2 true subgroups with main L and R routing switches

3 stereo aux returns, 2 with effect to monitor level control

Solo feature on each input and output

Record output with trim control for recording level matching

Convenient mini stereo I/O for MD, MP3 player/ recorde

Built-in switching power supply with universal connecto

Integrated USB Port to transfer audio directly between the mixer and your computer

16-bit stereo simultaneous inputs and outputs over USB

Plug and play operation under Windows and Mac OS, no additional drivers required

44.1 kHz S/PDIF digital out

Rack-mounting kit included

r, input with level control

r, 100-240VAC, 50/60Hz

HELIX BOARD 17

GETTING STARTED

Basic Setup

1. Ensure all power is turned off on your mixer. To totally

ensure this, the AC cable should not be connected to the unit.

2. All faders and level controls should be set at the lowest level and all channels switched off 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.

3. Plug all necessary instruments and equipment into the device’s various inputs as required. This may include line

signal devices, such as keyboards and drum machines, keyboards, etc.

4. Plug any necessary equipment into the device’s various outputs. This could include ampliﬁ ers and speakers, devices.

5. Plug the supplied AC cable into the AC inlet on the back of the device and a power outlet of a suitable voltage.

6. Turn the power switch on.

7. Insert the provided USB cord into the Helix Board 17's

USB jack, and your personal computer's USB jack. Provided your computer is switched on and complies with the requirements described later in this manual, your computer should automatically recognize your Helix interface, please refer to page 14 of this manual.

as well as microphones and/or guitars,

monitors, signal processors, and/or recording

Board 17. For more information on using the USB

Channel Setup

1. To ensure the correct audio level of the input channel

selected, each of the Mixer’s Channel’s ON but-

should be disengaged (which should turn the

tons corresponding and

try again), as well as the SOLO buttons on each channel "To Ctrl Rm" button.

2. Ensure it similar to the signal that will be sent when in

to common crophone

at the same level the performer normally would

sing during

a performance; if a guitar is plugged into the channel, it

normally would be (and so on). This ensures levels

completely accurate and avoids having to reset

are them late

3. Move

4. Turn the Channel ON.

5. Pushing

6. Set

7. This channel is now ready to be used; you can stop

the Channel fader and Maser fader to around

the 0 dB mark.

Pre/Post

fader signal of the activated channel to the Control

preRoom

/ Phones mixing bus and the Level Meter will

display the Control Room

the gain so the level meter indicates the audio

level is around 0 dB.

making the audio signal.

You can now repeat the same process for other channels if you wish.

LED indicator off – otherwise go back

and on the master section, and the 2T RTN

the channel you wish to set has a signal sent

use. For example, if the channel has a mi-

connected to it, then you should speak or

then the guitar should also be strummed as

the channel’s SOLO button and releasing the

button on the CTRL RM section will send the

’s signal properties.

HELIX BOARD 17

Making Connections

Inputs and Outputs

1. XLR Microphone Jacks

These jacks accept typical 3-pin XLR

for balanced and unbalanced

inputs signals. They can be used in conjunction professional condenser, dynamic or ribbon microphones – with standard XLR male connectors, and feature low noise preampliﬁ ers, serving for crystal clear sound replication. The Helix Board 17 mixer features ﬁ ve standard XLR microphone inputs.

NB. When these inputs are used with condenser microphones, the Phantom Power should be activated. However, when Phantom Power 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 balanced or TS unbalanced inputs, for balanced or unbalanced signals. They can be used in conjunction with a wide range of line level devices, such as keyboards, drum machines, electric guitars, and a variety of other electric instruments.

3. Stereo Channels

The Helix Board 17 features a few balanced stereo channels, channels features two 1/4" phone jacks, for the addition of various line level input devices, such as electronic keyboards, guitars and external signal processors or mixers. If monaura l a stereo input, simply plug ph on e left leave bare. The signal will be duplicated to the right due jack normalizing.

with microphones – such as

thrown in for maximum ﬂ exibility. Each of these stereo

you wish to use a

device on

the device’s 1/4"

j ac k into the

(mono) input and

the right input

to the miracle of

5. AUX Returns

These 1/4" TS inputs are for the return of audio to the

Board 17 mixers, processed by an external signal

Helix processo ditional using When

r. If really needed, they can also be used as ad-

inputs. The feed from these inputs can be adjusted

the AUX Return controls on the face of the mixer.

connecting a monaural device to the AUX Return 1 and 2 inputs, simply plug a 1/4" phone jack into the left (mono)

input, and the signal will appear in the right as

This, however, does not work for the AUX Return 3

well. input on the .

NB. When any device is plugged into the mixer’s corresponding EFX

inputs (AUX Return 3), the mixer’s internal digital effect engine

Return is then disabled.

6. Foot Switch Jacks

These ports are for the inclusion of a foot switch, used to

remotely adjust properties of the built-in Digital Effect

processo

r. The uppermost jack is used to turn the Digital Effects on and off, where the lower jack is used for adjusting tap delay properties.

7. 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 / Phones control.

8. Record Out

These outputs will accommodate RCA

able to be fed to a variety of

cables, recording mini recording ers,

devices. Also included is a

stereo jack for the addition of

devices such as MD play-

and even laptop computers. The

Trim Control ensures you can adjust

output level of these controls to

the match to your recording level.

9. 2T Return

These RCA inputs are used to con-

t the mixer with parallel external

nec devices, Cassette mini like portable CD, MD and MP3 players.

such as sub mixers or CD,

Players. Also included are

stereo jacks, for receiving signals from audio devices

4. AUX Sends

Th es e 1/4" TRS balanced outputs may be used to connect to an external signal processor, or even to an ampliﬁ er and speakers (depending on your desired settings) from the mixer. The

from the AUX Sends is controlled by the AUX master

signal controls (on the face of the mixer), which obtain their signal from the AUX controls located on each channel strip. The Helix Board 17 features 2 AUX sends.

NB. When sending unbalanced signals from this output, a 1/4" TRS stereo plugs must be used and have the ring-pin disconnected, as to avoid damaging this mixer.

10. Main Out

These two 1/4" TRS phone jacks will output the ﬁ nal balanced ing main ampli as

stereo line level signal sent from the main mix-

bus. The primary purpose of these jacks is to send the

output to external devices, which may include power

ﬁ ers (and in-turn, a pair of speakers), other mixers,

well as a wide range of other possible signal processors

(Equalizers, Crossovers, etcetera).

HELIX BOARD 17

Rear Panel

11. Channel Inserts

Located on the rear of the Helix Board 17, the primary use for these TRS phone jacks is for the addition of external devices, mono input channels 1 through to 5. This will require a Y cord and nals processor. The tip of the TRS end send the signal to an external device, used to return the signal back to the Helix Board 17.

such as dynamic processors or equalizers, to

that can send (pre-fader

pre-EQ) and receive sig-

to and from an external

of the Y cord is used to

whereas the ring is

15. S/PDIF Out

This RCA S/PDIF (Sony/Phillips Digital Interface - 16-bit, with

a 44.1 kHz sampling rate) output jack allows users

connect their Helix Board 17 mixer to a multitude of

to external recorders of without and

digital audio equipment, most commonly DAT

or digital processors. It allows the main signal

your Helix Board 17 to be sent to other digital devices

having to convert the signal from digital to analog,

back again, effectively reducing the degredation of

the audio signal.

16. USB Port

This port allows users to use a USB cord to connect to

Personal Computers or Laptops. This allows stereo,

their

communication between your Helix Board 17 mixer

2-way and your compute

12. Control Room Outputs

These two balanced 1/4" TRS phone jack outputs feed the

signal altered by the Control Room / Phones level 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, for the monitoring of the audio signal from within a booth, or, alternatively, for the addition of external signal processing devices or mixers, as well as acting as a “side ﬁ ll” output, supplying audio to indoor areas that the main speakers do not reach.

13. Group Out

These balanced 1/4" TRS phone jacks output the ﬁ nal feed from the Group 1 and 2 Faders on the main mixer. These

can be used to feed a wide range of devices,

outputs such as mixers, signal processors, and even to connect an ampliﬁ er and speakers to be used along with the Main Speakers, for a more rounded audio experience.

NB. When sending unbalanced signals from this output, a 1/4" TRS stereo plugs must be used and have the ring-pin disconnected, as to avoid damaging this mixer.

14. Main Output

These two XLR ports will output the ﬁ nal stereo line level

sent from the main mixing bus. The primary purpose

signal of these jacks is to send the main output to external devices, which may include power ampliﬁ ers (and in-turn, a pair of speakers), other mixers, as well as a wide range of other possible signal processors (equalizers, crossovers, etcetera).

17. Power Connector

This port is for the addition of a power cable, allowing

to be supplied to the mixer. Please use the power

power cable that is included with this mixer onl

Controls and Settings

Rear Panel

18. Phantom Power Switch

When this switch is in the on position, it activates +48V of phantom denser to will channel turn of a ghastly popping sound from the speakers.

NB. Phantom Power should be used in conjunction with balanced microphones. (unbalanced) Mic microphones, be consulted.

19. Power Switch

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

power for all microphone inputs, allowing con-

microphones (well, the ones that don’t use batteries)

be used on these channels. Activating Phantom Power

be accompanied by an illuminated LED above the left

Level Meter. Before turning Phantom Power on,

all level controls to a minimum to avoid the possibility

When Phantom Power is engaged, single ended

microphones and instruments should not be used on the

inputs. Phantom Power will not cause damage to most dynamic

however if unsure, the microphone’s user manual should

HELIX BOARD 17

Channel Controls

20. Low Cult Filter (75 Hz)

This button will activate a high-pass ﬁ lter that reduces all frequencies below 75 Hz at 18 dB per Octave, helping to remove any unwanted ground noise or stage rumble.

21. Gain Control

This controls the sensitivity of the input signal of the Line/ Microphone 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. This can be accomplished by adjusting it to a level that will allow the peak indicator occasionally illuminate.

22. 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.

23. Middle Frequency Control

This control is used to provide a peaking style of boost and cut to the level of middle frequency sounds at a range of

±15 dB. These mixers also provide a sweep control, allowing you to select a center frequency between 100 Hz and 8 kHz. Changing middle frequencies of an audio feed can be rather difﬁ cult

used in a professional audio mix,

when as it is usually more desirable to cut middle frequency sounds rather than

t them, soothing overly harsh vocal

boos and instrument sounds in the audio.

stereo channels of the Helix Board

The 17 mixer feature a High-Mid and Low-Mid control instead of the typical controls described above. They provide a peaking the frequencies are set at 3 kHz and 800 Hz (High-Mid is set at 3 kHz and Low-Mid is set at 800 Hz).

24. 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 guitars.

25. AUX Control

This control alters the signal level that is being sent to the auxiliary 1 mixing bus, the signal of which is suitable for connecting stage monitors, allowing artists to listen to the music that is being played. Also included is a Pre/Post button (for AUX 1), which alternates the feed to the AUX mixing bus between a post and pre-fader feed.

style of boost and cut to middle frequencies, where

bring more warmth and punch to drums and bass

26. EFX Control

This control alters the signal level that is sent to the EFX send

(AUX 2) output and the built-in digital effect processor. The EFX send signal can be used in conjunction with external signal processors (this signal of which can be returned an additional auxiliary output.

to mixer via the AUX return input), or simply as

27. Pan / Balance Controls

This alternates the degree or level of audio that the left

right side of the main mix should receive. On mono

and channels, left channel, or right audio signals accordingly (balance).

the PAN control will adjust the level that the

and right should receive (pan), where as on a stereo

adjusting the BAL control will attenuate the left

28. On Button and Indicator

This turns the channel on, allowing the user to use the feed

the channel’s inputs to supply the MAIN L/R, GROUP

from 1/2,

AUX and EFX buses. The corresponding indicator will

be illuminated when turned on.

29. 1-2 and L-R Buttons

These handy buttons allow you to decide the audio path

the corresponding channel. Pushing the “1/2” button

of allows

the signal to be sent to the Group 1/2 mix, where

the “L-R” allows it to be sent to the Main L/R mix.

30. Peak Indicator

This LED indicator will illuminate when

the channel hits high peaks,

6 dB before overload occurs. It is

to adjust the channel level

best

so as to allow the PEAK

control

tor to light up on regular

indica intervals greater This Solo button is engaged.

only. This will ensure a

dynamic range of audio.

indicator also doubles as a

indicator, when the SOLO

31. Solo Button

The Solo button is pushed to allow the signal of a corresponding con selected Room or input Peak Peak peaks.

channel to be sent to the Control Room / Phones

trol (pre or post fader, depending on the properties

by the pre / post button, located by the Control

/ Phones control), for use with either headphones

studio monitors. This also allows easier setting of the

gain and tracking of audio by sound engineers. The

indicator above the Solo button also doubles as a

Indicator, illuminating when the signal reaches high

32. Channel Level Control (Fader)

This control will alter the signal level that is sent from

corresponding channel to the corresponding mixing

the buses.

HELIX BOARD 17

33. +4 / -10 Buttons

These buttons, located on each stereo input channel, are used

adjust the input sensitivity of the corresponding chan-

nel, which will adapt the mixer to external devices which

use different operating levels. If the input source is -10

may dBV (consumer audio standard), it is best to engage the switch, allowing the signal to be heard. If the input source is

+4 dBu (professional audio standard) the corresponding

channel’s button should be disengaged to ensure the

input integrity of the Mixer’s circuitry. If you are unsure of the source’s operating level,

suggest leaving the

disengaged until

switch you

test the source’s signal. You can then engage if necessary (if the le

vel of input is obviously

too low).

38. Parameter Control

This will adjust the one main parameter of the digital effect program the Digital Effects Table for more information on Effect parameters.

NB. The digital effect engine has a “memory” function, which allows you to adjust another be will be altered according to the control.

that is applied to the audio feed. Please refer to

the parameters of a program, then, if you change the parameters of

program and return to the original one, your parameter setting will

kept until the Parameter Control is turned once again, at which time it

39. Tap Delay Button and Indicator

When the tap delay program is selected, this button is

to determine the delay time. By pushing the button

used several

times, the effect engine interprets the time be-

last two pushes and remembers this as the delay

tween

until the button is pushed again. When the tap delay

time effect is selected, the corresponding LED will ﬂ ash at the intervals selected.

Digital Effect Engine

34. Digital Effect Display

This panel displays the titles of different effects that can be added to audio. When you select the effect,

name will illuminate, and the

the alteration be applied automatically. For a list of available effects, please observe the Digital Effect Table.

35. Program Control

This control is used to scroll through the various effects shown on the Digital Effect Display. Turning the control

automatically change the effect and apply it to the

will mix. To see the list of available programs, please check the Digital Effect Table.

36. Peak Indicator

This LED indicator will illuminate when the device hits high peaks. It is best to adjust the EFX Send Controls (on all Input Channels and the Master Section) so as to ensure the Peak indicator does not light up at all. This will ensure a greater dynamic range for audio.

Master Section

40. AUX Return Controls

These controls adjust the signal level of audio fed through to

the stereo AUX Return inputs. The “To AUX 1” control

the pre-fader level of the signal from the AUX Re-

adjusts turn controls to the

41. EFX Return Control

This control adjusts the signal level of audio fed through

stereo AUX Return 3 inputs. If no device is plugged into

AUX Return 3 inputs, this control then acts as the ﬁ nal

the level control of the built-in Digital E

42. Main L/R - Group 1/2 Button

This button changes the destination of the signal sent from

AUX Return 3 mixing buses between the Main L/R and

the Group 1/2 mixing buses.

AUX mixing buses.

ffect Engine.

37. Effect On Button and Indicator

This button is pushed to turn the corresponding effect panel on or off. When the effect processor is turned on, the corresponding LED illuminates.

HELIX BOARD 17

43. Return Solo Button

Pushing this buttons allows you to send the signal from the 3 AUX Returns to the Control Room / Phones mixing bus.

49. +48V Indicator

This indicator will illuminate

when Phantom

Power is activated.

44. AUX Send Master Control

This rotary control adjusts the ﬁ nal level of the AUX mixing

(as taken from the AUX level controls on each channel

bus

the audio of which is sent to AUX Send 1 output. The

strip), corresponding SOLO button allows you to send the AUX Send signal to the Control Room / Phones mixing bus.

45. EFX Send Master Control

This control adjusts the ﬁ nal level of the EFX mixing bus (as taken from the EFX level controls on each channel strip), the audio of which is sent to the AUX Send 2 outputs, as

as the built-in digital effect engine. The corresponding

well SOLO button allows you to send the signal to the Control Room / Phones mixing bus.

46. Control Room / Phones Controls

This control is used to adjust the audio level of the Phones feed, as well as the signal sent to the Control Room output, for use in monitoring and tracking of audio.

47. Pre / Post Control and Solo Indicator

This button alternates the Control Room / Phones source signals between those of post-fader and pre-fader feeds. When the Solo indicator, located beside the Level Meter, is

illuminated, one or more Solo buttons has been pushed, therefore the Level meter will display properties of the Solo, which is helpful with setting of channel levels. If Solo indicator illuminates green, this means the Solo feed is a pre-fader signal. If the solo indicator illuminates red, the feed is post-fader. If the no Solo buttons are activated, the 2T Return signal properties are displayed by the Level Meter, unless the "To Ctrl Rm" button is not pressed - in

case the Main L-R signal properties will be displayed.

which If this isn't clear enough, just check the table below.

Priority Signal

Highest From Solo

Medium 2T Return to Control Room

Lowest Main L/R

48. 2T Return Controls

Turning the 2T Return level control adjusts the signal level of the feed from the 2T Return inputs, as well as the return feed from the PC (when connected through the provided USB cable). Pushing either one of the buttons in the 2T Return Control Section selects the destination of the 2T Return signal. The uppermost button (“to Ctrl Rm”) sends the signal to the Control Room/Phones mixing bus, whereas the lower button (“to L/R”) sends the signal to the Main L-R mixing bus. These buttons can, of course, be

simultaneously, feeding the signal to both the Control

used Room/Phones and Main L/R mixing bus.

50. Power Indicator

Th e Power Indicator

light up when the

will

of the mixer is

power on;

in case you weren’t

too sure.

51. Level Meter

This dual 13 segment level meter gives an accurate indication reach

approximately equal to an output level of +4 dBu

is (balanced), dB for controls of audio, while still maintaining fantastic clarit

of when audio levels of the Main L/R output

certain levels. The 0 dB indicator illuminates

and the PEAK indicator illuminates about 1.5 before the signal is dynamically clipped. It is suggested the maximum use of audio to set the various levels

so that it sits steadily around 0 dB to make full use

52. Group 1/2 Controls

These two faders are the ﬁ nal level control

for the Group 1 and 2 audio

sent to the Group 1 and 2

feeds, outputs. signal stereo Returns, selections. way dB set all the way down, effectively mute the signal.

The Left, Group Room / Phones mixing buses, respectivel

These faders can be fed a

from the various mono and

channels, as well as EFX

depending on the your

When pushed all the

up, these faders provide 10

of gain to the signal, and, when

Group Controls also feature

Right and Solo buttons, which allow you to send the

1/2 signal to the Main Left and Right, and the Control

53. Main L/R Faders

These two faders are the ﬁ nal level control

the Main Left and Right audio feeds,

for

to the Main L and R outputs. These

sent

are possibly fed by the various mono

faders

stereo channels, as well as AUX and

and

returns and 2T inputs, depending on

EFX

your selections. When pushed all the

the

up, these faders provide 10 dB of gain

way

the signal, and, when set all the way

to down, e

ffectively mute the signal.

HELIX BOARD 17

USB INTERFACE

By simply connecting the USB cable provided along with your Helix Board 17 to the device and your Personal Computer or Laptop, you are able to send CD quality (16-bit stereo, with a 44.1 kHz sampling rate) signal to and from your Helix Board 17. By doing this, you are actually turning your Helix Board 17 into a highly useful plug'n'play soundcard for your computer.

The USB sends an audio stream of the Main Left and Right (record out) signal of your mixer to the computer, as well as the 2T Return Left and Right signals. You can use almost any recording program to record the signal, or dedicated Digital Workstation software to use the signal from the USB device in any way you desire.

The USB interface also returns the audio signal from your computer back to the 2T Returns of the Helix Board 17, the signal of which is controlled by the 2T return control. If there are both digital and analog signals being sent to the 2T return, the two signals are combined and controlled simultaneously by the 2

T return control.

Precautions

When connection and disconnection the Helix Board 17 to and from your computer, ensure the Helix Board 17 is turned on before you do so. If the USB cable is already connected to your PC, turn your Helix Board 17 on before

your PC on, and shut your PC down before turning

turning your USB device off.

Furthermore, it is advisable to avoid using USB hubs or extension leads, as the signal from the PC or Helix Board 17 will deteriorate somewhat. If you require a USB cable to carry over a great distance, purchase a new, longer USB cable to help maintain a clear signal.

Operating Systems

The Helix Board 17 is compatible with the following Mac and Microsoft operating systems:

Microsoft™ Windows™ 98, 98 SE, and ME™

Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional

Microsoft Windows XP Home and Professional,

using the latest audio drivers available from the

Microsoft™ website

Apple™ Mac™

Apple Mac OS 10.0 or later

After the USB device has been recognize by a Windows operating Panel, Inside, “USB playback device.

For may tems Helix Board 17.

When using a Mac operating system, simply select “USB

Audio Codec” in the sound area of System preferences.

Please note, Mac OS 9.0 and below are not supported.

systems, it is important to open the Control

then select the Sounds and Audio Devices menu.

you should go to the Audio tab and select the

Audio Codec” as your default sound recording and

Windows ME and earlier editions, the Windows CD

be needed to ﬁ nd the correct driver. Operating sys-

later than this should automatically recognize the

OS 9.1 or later

HELIX BOARD 17

Application

On the following couple of pages you will ﬁ nd a wide range of possible uses for the Helix Board 17 mixers. Of course these are far from the only applications that can be attributed to the mixers’ use; however they should give you an idea of the possible uses that the various inputs and outputs have. The right combination of microphones, guitars, drum machines, keyboards, as well as recording devices, signal processors, ampliﬁ ers and speakers, can make for the

perfect live performance, home-studio recording session or even a basic public address, to name a fe

HELIX BOARD 17

Digital Effect Table

Parameter Controllability

Program Name Program Description

HALL

ROOM

PLATE

REVERB VOCAL 1 Ideal for Reverb of vocals Reverb Time 0.3 – 10.0 sec

REVERB VOCAL 2 Ideal for Reverb of vocals Reverb Time 0.3 – 10.0 sec

ECHO 1 Ideal for Echoing vocals Delay Time 0 – 800 ms

ECHO 2 Ideal for Echoing vocals Delay Time 0 – 800 ms

DELAY 1 Delays the audio signal Delay Time 0 – 800 ms

This reverb simulates a large, expanse setting, such as a concert hall

Creates acoustics similar to those of a small room

Si mu la tes a P la te Reverb d ev ic e, creating hard sounding Reverberation

Parameter

Reverb

Time 0.3 – 10.0 sec

Reverb

Time 0.3 – 3.2 sec

Reverb

Time 0.3 – 10.0 sec

Variable

Range

DELAY 2 Delays the audio signal Delay Time 0 – 800 ms

EARLY REF.

GATE REVERB Produces effect by cutting the reverberation Room Size 0.01 – 5.0

DOUBLER Creates an effect simulating 2 vocalists Pitch Fine 0 – 50

SYMPHONIC Adds richly layered depth to the sound Depth 0 – 100%

FLANGE Adds a sense of pitch to the sound

DISTORTION Used to distort the sound Drive 0 – 99%

TAP DELAY

Modiﬁ es early reﬂ ections, creating a deeper sound or an echo-like effect

Allows

you to select the delay time by cl icking fo ot switch. T he am ou nt of fe ed ba ck is adjusted using th e PAR AM ET ER control.

a button twice or by use of a

Room Siz

Modulation

Frequency

Feedback Gai

Delay

e 0.1 – 10.0

Time

0.05 – 4.00 Hz

n 0 – 99%

100 ms

(600bpm) – 2690 ms

(22.3bpm)

HELIX BOARD 17

SPECIFICATIONS

Inputs

Total Channels 8

Balanced Mono Mic / Line channel 5

Balanced Stereo Line Channel 3

Aux Return 3 stereo

2T Input Mini stereo and stereo RCA

Outputs

Main L/R Stereo 2 x 1/4” TRS, Bal. & 2 x XLR

Rec Out with Trim Control Mini stereo and stereo RCA

CTRL RM L/R 2 x 1/4” TS

Phones 1

Channel Strips 8

Aux Sends 2

Pan/Balance Control Yes

Volume Controls 60mm fader

Master Section

Aux Send Masters 2

Master Aux Send Solo 2

Stereo Aux Returns 3

Aux Return Assign to Subgroup 1

Effects Return to Monitor 2

Global AFL/PFL Solo Mode Yes

Phones Level Control Yes

Faders 2 subgroups, Main L & R (60 mm fader)

Metering

Number of Channels 2

Segments 13

Phantom Power Supply +48V DC

Switches Master

Effect Processor 16 effects with one main parameter control, tap

delay control, 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 ﬂ 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

HELIX BOARD 17

S/N ratio, ref to +4 >90 dB

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

<-129.5 dBm

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

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 Input (except insert) 10 K ohms

RCA 2T Output 1.1 K ohms

Equalization 3-band, +/-15dB

Low EQ 80 Hz

Mid EQ (mono channel) 100 Hz - 8 kHz, sweepable

LMid EQ (stereo channel) 800 Hz

HMid EQ (stereo channel) 3 kHz

Hi EQ 12 kHz

Low cut ﬁ lter 75 Hz (-18 dB/oct)

Built-in Power Supply 100-240 VAC, 50/60 Hz

Weight 9.25 lbs (4.2 kg)

Dimensions (WxHxD) 300 x 104.5 x 340 mm (11.8” x 4.1” x 13.4”)

<0.005%

HELIX BOARD 17

BLOCK DIAGRAM

HELIX BOARD 17

DIMENSIONS

HELIX BOARD 17

All measurements are shown in mm/inch

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

Phonic has over 100 service centers worldwide. 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 www.phonic.com.

WARRANTY INFORMATION

Phonic stands behind every product we make with a no-hassles warranty. Warranty coverage

may be extended, depending on your region. Phonic Corporation warrants this product for a

minimum of one year from the original date of purchase against defects in material and workman

ship 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 accom

panying 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.

CUSTOMER SERVICE AND TECHNICAL SUPPORT

We encourage you to visit our online help at http://www.phonic.com/help/. 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.

Phonic America Corporation

6103 Johns Road, #7

Tampa, FL 33634

(813) 890-8872

support@phonic.com

http://www.phonic.com

Phonic Helix Board 17 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual