PreSonus Monitor Station User Manual

Download

Page 1

MONITOR

STATION

Studio Control Center

User’s Manual v1.0

Page 2

PRESONUS LIMITED WARRANTY

PreSonus Audio Electronics Inc. warrants this product to be free of defects in material and workmanship for a period of one year from the date of original retail purchase. Th is warranty is enforceable only by the original retail purchaser. To be protected by this warranty, the purchaser must complete and return the enclosed warranty card within 14 days of purchase. During the warrant y period PreSonus shall, at its sole and absolute option, either repair or replace, free of charge, any product that proves to be defective on inspection by PreSonus or its authorized service representative. To obtain warranty service, the purchaser must first call or write PreSonus at the address and telephone number printed belo w to obtain a Return Authorization Number and instructions of where to return the unit for service. All inquiries must be accompanied by a description of the problem. All authorized returns must be sent to the PreSonus repair facility postage prepaid, insured and properly packaged. PreSonus reserves the right to update any unit returned for repair. PreSonus reserves the right to change or improve the design of the product at any time without prior notice. This warranty does not cover claims for damage due to abuse, neglect, alteration or attempted repair by unauthorized personnel, and is limited to failures arising during normal use that are due to defects in material or workmanship in the product. Any implied warranties, including implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose, are limited in duration to the length of this limited warranty. Some states do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts, so the above limitation may not apply to you. In no event will PreSonus be liable for incidental, consequential or other damages resulting from the breach of any express or implied warranty, including, among other things, damage to property, damage based on inconvenience or on loss of use of the product, and, to the extent permitted by law, damages for personal injury. Some states do not allow the exclusion of limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitation or exclusion may not apply to you. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights, which vary from state to state. This warranty only applies to products sold and used in the United States of America. For warranty information in all other countries please refer to your local distributor.

PreSonus Audio Electronics, Inc. 7257 Florida Blvd. Baton Rouge, LA 70806 www.PreSonus.com

Page 3

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1 OVERVIEW

1.1 Introduction ........................................................................................................................................... 2

1.2 Features ................................................................................................................................................ 3

1.3 What is in the Box ................................................................................................................................. 4

2 OPERATION

2.1 Quick Start ............................................................................................................................................ 5

2.1.1 Connect the power .......................................................................................................................... 5

2.1.2 Connect the input sources ............................................................................................................... 5

2.1.3 Calibrate the LED meter ................................................................................................................ 6

2.1.4 Calibrate the input sources ............................................................................................................. 6

2.1.5 Connect the speakers ...................................................................................................................... 7

2.1.6 Calibrate your speaker levels .......................................................................................................... 7

2.1.7 Calibrate the talkback microphone ................................................................................................ 10

2.1.8 Connect the Cue and Main outputs ................................................................................................. 10

2.2 Sample Hookup Diagram ..................................................................................................................... 11

2.3 Advanced Modes .................................................................................................................................. 12

2.3.1 Speaker Select Modes .................................................................................................................. 12

2.3.2 Main and Cue Source Modes ........................................................................................................ 12

2.3.3 Input LED Meter Modes .............................................................................................................. 13

2.3.4 Reset All Modes to Factory Default .............................................................................................. 13

3 CONTROLS & CONNECTIONS

3.1 Front panel Layout .............................................................................................................................. 14

3.1.1 Talkback ...................................................................................................................................... 14

3.1.2 Headphones ................................................................................................................................. 15

3.1.3 Aux/Cue Control ........................................................................................................................... 15

3.1.4 Source Control ............................................................................................................................. 16

3.1.5 Speaker Control ........................................................................................................................... 17

3.1.6 Main Level Control ...................................................................................................................... 18

3.2 Back Panel Layout ............................................................................................................................... 19

3.2.1 Inputs .......................................................................................................................................... 19

3.2.2 Outputs ........................................................................................................................................ 20

3.2.3 Power .......................................................................................................................................... 20

4 TECHNICAL INFORMATION

4.1 Frequently Asked Questions .................................................................................................................. 21

4.2 Troubleshooting ................................................................................................................................... 22

4.3 Specifications ...................................................................................................................................... 23

4.4 Block Diagram ..................................................................................................................................... 25

Page 4

1.1 INTRODUCTION

OVERVIEW

Thank you for purchasing the Monitor Station. PreSonus Audio Electronics designed the Monitor Station using high-grade components to ensure optimum performance that will last a lifetime. The Monitor Station is the ultimate desktop monitoring and communications system for your recording studio. Based on the award-winning Central Station, the Monitor Station provides talkback, speaker switching, input source switching and four ultra loud and clear headphone amplifiers to deliver everything you need to control your recording environment.

Please contact us at 225-216-7887 with any questions or comments you may have regarding your Monitor Station. PreSonus Audio Electronics is committed to constant product improvement, and we value your suggestions highly. We believe the best way to achieve our goal of constant product improvement is by listening to the real your Monitor Station.

Please pay close attention to how you connect your Monitor Station to your syst em. We suggest you use this manual to familiarize yourself with the features, applications and correct connection procedure for your Monitor Station before trying to connect it to your studio equipment. This will hopefully alleviate any unforeseen issues that you may encounter during installation and set up.

Thank you, once again, for buying our product, and we hope you enjoy your Monitor Station!

experts

, our valued customers. We appreciate the support you have shown us through the purchase of

Page 5

OVERVIEW

1.2 FEATURES

The Monitor Station is the ultimate studio control center complete with everything needed for real-world, modern studio applications. The Monitor Station comes complete with a built-in talkback mic, three source inputs, three speaker outputs, four headphone amplifiers and control over the routing and level of every element connected to the Monitor Station – effectively giving you complete control over your entire studio environment.

Its stereo inputs are ready to accommodate virtually any input sources – such as Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs), analogue and digital mixing consoles, CD players, DJ Turntables, etc. Each of the five inputs features individual monitoring, which means you can quickly and easily toggle between them for a quick comparison or reference. The Monitor Station’s three stereo outputs with individual Speaker Level Adjust knobs and Master Mute, Dim, Mono and Level controls allow you to connect three sets of reference monitors and easily compare your mix on each of them. The four headphone amplifier outputs with individual source and level controls give you the ability to feed custom headphone mixes to you or any of the artists in your studio. All this combined with the built-in talkback microphone make the Monitor Station the cleanest, most powerful piece of gear custom-tailored to bring your studio together under your complete control.

Summary of features

• Three stereo inputs (two balanced ¼” TRS; one unbalanced RCA)

• Built-in phono preamp on RCA aux input

• Main input source selector for comparing/referencing inputs

• Cue source selector for tailoring headphone and cue mixes

• Three balanced ¼” TRS stereo outputs

• Variable Speaker Level Adjustment for fine-tuned calibration of output levels

• Speaker Select for quick A/B’ing of input source between reference monitors

• Dim button with variable attenuation level

• Mono, Mute and Main Level Control

• Built-in talkback microphone with variable input gain

• External talkback microphone input (balanced XLR)

• Four built-in headphone amplifiers (stereo unbalanced ¼” TRS)

• Individual level adjust knobs for each headphone output

• Main/Cue Source selector for each headphone output

Page 6

OVERVIEW

1.3 WHAT IS IN THE BOX

Your Monitor Station package contains the following:

• Monitor Station Studio Control Center

• Monitor Station Power Source

• PreSonus Warranty Card

Page 7

OPERATION

2.1 QUICK START

The Monitor Station Quick Start guide was written to help get your Monitor Station connected to your system as quickly as possible. The following step-by-step instructions are based on a common studio environment. Your actual setup may change based on your needs and applica tio ns.

2.1.1 Connect the power

Before connecting any power supply to the Monitor Station, ensure the power supply meets the input voltage requirements of the region or country you are using it in. PreSonus only supports the power supply shipped along with your Monitor Station. If it does not meet your requirements or yo u wish to purchase an additional power supply, please contact your local dealer or distributor.

1) “Zero” the Main, Cue and Phones level knobs by turning them fully counterclockwise.

If you have speakers or gear connected to the Main L/R outputs, you should also Zero them.

2) Ensure the power switch is set to the ‘OFF’ position ( O down = off ).

3) Connect the included power supply to the Monitor Station’s power input connector and to the appropriate wall socket.

4) Flip the power switch to the ‘ON’ position ( | down = on ).

2.1.2 Connect the input sources

1) “Zero” the Main, Cue and Phones level knobs by turning them fully counterclockwise.

2) Connect your primary audio source (such as a DAW or Mixer Main Outputs) to the Left and Right TRS inputs of ST1 on the back of your Monitor Station.

[Optional]:

(such as the auxiliary outputs of your interface or Mixer) to the Left and Right TRS inputs of ST2 on the back of your Monitor Station.

[Optional]:

RCA inputs of Aux/Phono.

Connect your secondary audio source (such as a CD or mp3 player) or cue audio source

Connect another secondary or Cue audio source or a DJ turntable to the Left and Right

Page 8

OPERATION

2.1.3 Calibrate the LED meter

By default, the Monitor Station’s LED meters are calibrated so the red 0 dBVU LED illuminates when the selected source signals reach +10 dBu. This can be changed so that 0 dBVU references +4, +10 or +18 dBu.

+4 dBu

0 dBVU should reference +4 dBu if any of your monitoring devices have a maximum input of +4 dBu or if none of your input devices have a maximum (or nominal) output level greater than +4 dBu.

+10 dBu

0 dBVU should reference +10 dBu if any of your monitoring devices have a maximum input of +10 dBu or if none of your input devices have a maximum (or nominal) output level greater than +10 dBu.

+18 dBu

0 dBVU should reference +18 dBu if any of your monitoring devices have a maximum input of +18 dBu or if none of your input devices have a maximum (or nominal) output level greater than +18 dBu.

2.1.4 Calibrate the input sources

1) Press and hold the Cue Source ST1 button while powering on your Monitor Station.

1) Press and hold the Cue Source ST2 button while powering on your Monitor Station.

1) Press and hold the Cue Source Aux button while powering on your Monitor Station.

1) “Zero” the Main, Cue and Phones level knobs by turning them fully counterclockwise.

2) Turn the outputs of your primary audio source (connected to ST1) to their lowest setting.

3) Remove all effects processors (i.e. EQs, compressors, reverbs, etc.) from the signal path and play a clean 0 dB test tone (i.e., a 1 kHz sine wave) through the outputs of your primary audio source.

Select only ST1 as the Main Source, and begin turning up the outputs of your primary audio source to their Unity Gain setting or until the Monitor Station’s LED meter’s red 0 dBVU LED comes on. If you are not able to reach Unity Gain (or very close to it) without the red 0 dBVU LED coming on, ensure you have properly calibrated the LED meter (

section 2.1.3

) then repeat this step.

“Unity Gain” is the level or setting which does not boost or attenuate the signal level and is usually marked by a “0” on the audio device’s level fader or knob. In many digital interfaces and digital devices, its maximum level is often also its Unity Gain setting. Please consult your audio device’s user’s manual or manufacturer’s Website for more information on its levels and adjustments.

[Aux/Phono only]:

maximum level. Instead, engage the Phono preamp (if necessary) and increase the Aux Input Level knob starting from -80 until the red 0 dBVU LED meter just comes on (and no higher).

4) Repeat steps 1 through 3 for the secondary / cue audio sources connected to ST1 an d A ux/P h o no.

Do not adjust the output level of your audio device if it is set at its optimum or

Page 9

OPERATION

2.1.5 Connect the speakers

1) “Zero” the Main level knob by turning it fully counterclockwise.

2) Connect your primary monitoring system (such as a pair of nearfield reference monitors) to the Left and Right outputs of Speaker A.

[Optional]:

different make or model) to the Left and Right out puts of Speaker B.

[Optional]:

or subwoofer) to the Left and Right outputs of Speaker C.

2.1.6 Calibrate your speaker levels

The essential purpose of speaker calibration is to ensure a specific metered audio level (typically 0 dBVU) equals a certain acoustic level (measured in dB SPL) in your studio environment. Depending upon the method and reference levels used during calibration, proper calibration can help reduce unwanted noise, minimize the risk of damage to your speaker cones and to your ears, maximize the reference capabilities of different speaker types and ensure you and/or your listeners are he ari ng the au dio a s the engineer intended.

There are many different methods for calibrating studio monitors. The methods discussed here should not be misconstrued as the different gear, clientele and audio mixes may ultimately benefit more from one of the many other methods available. PreSonus does not suggest the calibration methods provided here are in any way the best or only recommended methods of calibration when using the Monitor Station. If you wish to calibrate your studio monitors using a different method, we encourage you to do so.

Every calibration method has something in common, though: test tones. The most commonly used te st tones are 100 Hz, 1 kHz and 10 kHz sine waves, 40-80 Hz and 500 Hz -2.5 kHz bandwidth-limited pink no ise and 20 Hz - 20 kHz pink noise and white noise. Test tone CDs can be purchased from your local electronics or entertainment retailer or downloaded off the Internet from a variety of free Websites for use in many calibration and testing procedures. As a less technical, more subjective and not otherwise idea l alternative, the chorus of a modern commercial Rock song can be substi tu ted for ful l-b a ndw i dt h pi n k noise.

When calibrating reference monitors in a studio, the acoustic level or sound pressure level (SPL) should be measured from the mix position at seated ear height. The SPL meter should be held at arms’ length with the microphone pointed at the center point between the left and right speakers, angled at 45 degrees to ensure an accurate reading. You should also calibrate the left and right monitors independently; pan the test tone hard left, calibrate the left monitor, then repeat for the right channel.

When monitoring systems are calibrated using the same method, each system should generate the same acoustic level when given the same input source. This is especially important when referencing your mix on different monitoring systems (such as toggling between Speaker A and Speaker B for comparison), because in an incorrectly calibrated studio, the acoustic level will “jump” when toggling the different systems.

(For example, when calibrated properly, playing an audio through Speaker A then turning Speaker A ‘OFF’ and Speaker B ‘ON’ should not cause a change in level – though it may result in a slight tonal variance due to the different acoustic properties of the monitoring systems.)

Connect your secondary monitoring system (such as a pair of reference monitors of a

Connect another secondary monitoring system (such as a pair of large studio monitors

only

method or even the

best

method, because different studio environments with

Page 10

OPERATION

Maximum Loudness Reference

This method references a 0 dBVU meter reading to the loudest level you or your studio can handle or desire. This is the least technical, most subjective method and is good for environments where there is such a thing as “too loud” (i.e. an apartment, school, OSHA-regulated venue, etc.) or when a certain level of “louder” needs to be attainable (i.e. for entertaining guests at parties, clubs, live venues, etc.).

1) “Zero” the Speaker, Main, Cue and Phones levels by turning them fully counterclockwise.

2) Select only the ST1 Main Source and Speaker A selections.

3) Turn your primary monitoring system (connected to ST1) input level to its lowest setting. On many powered monitors, this is the “Input Sensitivity”. Consult your monitor system’s user’s manuals or manufacturers’ Websites for more information about adjusting the input or amplification level.

Remove all effects processors (i.e. EQs, compressors, reverbs, etc.) from the signal path and play

500 Hz – 2.5 kHz bandwidth-limited pink noise at 0 dB through your primary audio source outputs.

If you are calibrating a subwoofer, use 40 Hz – 80 Hz bandwidt h-li mi te d pi nk nois e.

You should not hear the test tone. If you do, repeat step 1 and turn down the speakers playing it.

5) If you are using an SPL meter, pan the test tone so it only plays in the left speaker (hard left). NOTE: When both speakers play simultaneously, the overall SPL will increase by about +3 dB. To

account for this, subtract -3 dB when calibrating the left and right channels. (For example, if your overall acoustic level cannot exceed 90 dB SPL, calibrate each speaker to reach only 87 dB SPL.)

6) Turn the Main level knob to Unity Gain by turning it fully clockwise.

7) Begin turning the Speaker Level Adjust A knob to Unity Gain by turning it fully clockwise. You should begin hearing the test tone playing through your primary speakers. If the acoustic level reaches your desired maximum level (as measured by your ears or an SPL meter), stop increasing the Speaker Level and skip step 8.

8) Begin slowly increasing the input sensitivity (volume) of your primary monitoring system’s left speaker until the acoustic level of the test tone playing reaches the desired maximum SPL.

9) Repeat steps 4, 5, 6 and 8 for the right channel.

10) If you are calibrating a monitoring system with independent subwoofer level control (such as a 2.1 or 2-way speaker system), repeat steps 4, 5, 6 and 8 for the subwoofer level.

11) Repeat steps 1 through 9 for the monitoring systems connected to ST2 and Aux/Phono.

12)

[Test]

: Play audio through Speaker A only. toggle Speaker A ‘OFF’ and Speaker B ‘ON’. You may hear a slight tonal variance due to the different acoustic properties of the monitoring systems, but the loudness should remain the same.

If the loudness varies drastically, you may wish to repeat this calibration procedure from step 1.

In most cases, you should not reach your maximum level yet.

Without adjusting any of the Monitor Station’s levels

Page 11

OPERATION

85 dB SPL “Standard” Reference

This method references a specific “standard” meter reading to a certain acoustic level. This method is the most technical, least subjective method and is good for studios where a specific type of audio is produced or where an industry standard audio level exists (such as for film or broadcast). One of the most common calibration standards (and the one presented here) is -20 dBFS referenced to 85 dB SPL.

dBFS means “decibels full scale” and is associated with decibel amplitude levels in digital systems where there is a finite maximum available level (such as in standard PCM encoding). The maximum level possible is referred to as “0 dBFS”. In digital systems with analogue outputs (such as digital interfaces), its analogue-to-digital and digital-to-analogue converters (ADCs & DACs) are referenced so 0 dBFS equals a certain amount of analogue voltage. (For example, a 0 dBFS tone playing at Unity Gain from a FireBox measures +18 dBu, while a 0 dBFS from a FireStudio Project at Unity Gain measures +10 dBu.) It is important to know your digital devices’ 0 dBFS reference to prevent clipping and to aid in proper calibration.

1) “Zero” the Speaker, Main, Cue and Phones levels by turning them fully counterclockwise.

2) Select only the ST1 Main Source and Speaker A selections.

4) Remove all effects processors (i.e. EQs, compressors, reverbs, etc.) from the signal path and play 500 Hz – 2.5 kHz bandwidth-limited pink noise at -20 dBFS through your primary audio source outputs.

You should not hear the test tone. If you do, repeat step 1 and turn down the speakers playing it.

5) Pan the test tone so it only plays in the left speaker (hard left).

6) Turn the Main level knob to Unity Gain by turning it fully clockwise.

7) Begin turning the Speaker Level Adjust A knob to Unity Gain by turning it fully clockwise. You should begin hearing the test tone playing through your primary speakers. Increase the level until the SPL meter reads 85 dB.

8) Begin slowly increasing the input sensitivity (volume) of your primary monitoring system’s left speaker until the acoustic level of the test tone playing reaches 85 dB SPL.

9) Repeat steps 4, 5, 6 and 8 for the right channel.

10) If you are calibrating a monitoring system with independent subwoofer level control (such as a 2.1 or 2-way speaker system), repeat steps 4, 5, 6, 8 and 9 for the subwoofer level.

11) Repeat steps 1 through 10 for the monitoring systems connected to ST2 and Aux/Phono.

12)

[Test]

toggle Speaker A ‘OFF’ and Speaker B ‘ON’. You may hear a slight tonal variance due to the different acoustic properties of the monitoring systems, but the loudness should remain the same.

If the loudness varies drastically, you may wish to repeat this calibration procedure from step 1.

If you are calibrating a subwoofer, use 40 Hz – 80 Hz bandwidt h-l imi ted pink noise.

In most cases, you should not reach 85 dB SPL yet.

: Play audio through Speaker A only.

Without adjusting any of the Monitor Station’s levels

Page 12

OPERATION

2.1.7 Calibrate the talkback microphone

1) “Zero” the Main, Talkback, Cue, Phones and Dim knobs by turning them fully counterclockwise.

[Optional]

3) Connect headphones to any one of the headphones connections and select ‘CUE’ as its source.

4) Play audio common to your studio’s productions (such as a commercial CD or existing project) and set that audio source as the only input to the Cue bus (

5) Wear the headphones connected in step 3 and turn them up to a comfortable listening level.

6) Engage the talkback microphone by pressing the Talk button.

The headphones level should dim. If the amount of level decrease is more than you feel is comfortable, slowly increase the Dim Attenuation knob until the diminished level is acceptable.

7) Begin speaking into the talkback microphone and slowly turn up the Talkback Level knob until you can adequately hear yourself speaking through the headphones.

2.1.8 Connect the Cue and Main outputs

: Connect a dynamic microphone to the external mic XLR input connection.

section 3.1.4

Cue outputs

The Cue L/R outputs are typically used for connecting additional headphone amplifiers. Their source is set by the Cue bus Source (

1) “Zero” the Main and Cue level knobs by turning them fully counterclockwise.

2) Connect the inputs of the additional cue device to the Cue L/R outputs.

3) Calibrate the device’s audio levels.

section 3.1.4

Website for more information on its recommended calibration process.

), and their level is determined by the Cue Output level (

Please consult the device’s user’s manual or manufacturer’s

section 3.1.3

If the device does not have a recommended calibration process, increase the Cue Output level to Unity Gain by turning the Cue Output level knob fully clockwise.

Main outputs

The Main L/R outputs are essentially a “thru” which copies the input sources directly. They are typically used for devices needing a constant full-strength input signal (such as tape machines or CD recorders). Their source is set by the Main bus Source (

1) “Zero” the input of the device to be connected by turning down its input and output levels.

2) Connect the inputs of the Main device to the Main L/R outputs.

3) Calibrate the device’s audio levels.

section 3.1.4

), and their output level is equal to the input source level.

Please consult the device’s user’s manual or manufacturer’s

Website for more information on its recommended calibration process.

Page 13

OPERATION

2.2 SAMPLE HOOK UP DIAGRAM

With the Monitor Station, you can simultaneously record and play back up to 10 channels. Since it is loaded with eight preamplifiers, you can plug in eight microphones to the Monitor Station along with S/PDIF digital input to record a full band. This makes recording extremely easy. All you need are a few microphones, some cables to connect them, a musician (or two or three or more) and the creative energy to bring it all together.

This is a typical rock band setup. Your needs may vary depending upon the number and variety of sources you are recording. Feel free to adapt the sample setup below to your precise needs.

Page 14

OPERATION

2.3 ADVANCED MODES

To enhance the Monitor Station’s functionality, the behavior of the input LED meter and Speaker Select, Main Source and Cue Source buttons can be changed to best suit your studio environme nt.

Enter the following modes by pressing and holding the specified buttons while powering on the Monitor Station. Only one mode can be set at a time. The Monitor Station remains in the selected modes until another is selected.

2.3.1 Speaker Select Modes

• Combo

• Toggle

• Toggle A/B

2.3.2 Main and Cue Source Modes

The default Speaker Select mode.

In Combo mode, all Speaker Select buttons can be active simultaneously.

Restricts Speaker selection. In Toggle mode, only one Speaker Select button can be

active. This mode is primarily used when referencing your audio

source across different sets of studio monitors. Restricts Speaker A & Speaker B selection.

In Toggle A/B mode, Speaker A and Speaker B cannot be active simultaneously. Speaker C can remain active at all times.

This mode is primarily used if Speaker C is a subwoofer.

• Input Sum

The default Source mode.

In Input Sum mode, all Main and Cue Source buttons can be active simultaneously.

• Input Toggle

Restricts Source

In Input Toggle mode, only one Main Source and one Cue

selection.

Source button can be active. This mode is primarily used when comparing the Monitor

Station’s audio sources to each other (such as when A/B’ing your mix against a commercial CD).

Page 15

OPERATION

2.3.3 Input LED Meter Modes

• +4 dBu

• +10 dBu

• +18 dBu

References 0 dBVU to +4 dBu.

0 dBVU should reference +4 dBu if any of your monitoring devices have a maximum input of +4 dBu or if none of your input devices have a maximum (or nominal) output level greater than +4 dBu.

The default LED meter reference level: 0 dBVU = +10 dBu.

0 dBVU should reference +10 dBu if any of your monitoring devices have a maximum input of +10 dBu or if none of your input devices have a maximum (or nominal) output level greater than +10 dBu.

References 0 dBVU to +4 dBu.

0 dBVU should reference +18 dBu if any of your monitoring devices have a maximum input of +18 dBu or if none of your input devices have a maximum (or nominal) output level greater than +18 dBu.

2.3.4 Reset All Modes to Factory Default

• Factory Reset

References 0 dBVU to +4 dBu.

0 dBVU should reference +4 dBu if any of your monitoring devices have a maximum input of +4 dBu or if none of your input devices have a maximum (or nominal) output level greater than +4 dBu.

Page 16

NTR

CTI

3.1 F

3.1.1

ONT PA

Talkback

EL LAY

•

Talkback

is position

•

Talkback

•

Talk. En routes to feature for

•

External

icrophone.

d just above t

evel. Adjust

ages and dis he Cue bus

both the Mai

ic. Disables

he built-in t

he Talkback the gain leve

ngages the t

nly. Engagi

and Cue bus

he built-in tal

lkback micro evel knob.

of the talkba lkback micro

g the talkba

s (

see 3.1.6

kback microp

hone is an el

k microphon hone pream

k microphon

or more deta

hone and eng

ectret conden

preamplifier

lifier. The t

automatical

s on the Dim

ges the XLR

ser micropho

+15 to +55

lkback micr

ly engages th

eatur

icrophone in

e and

B. phone

Dim

put.

Page 17

‘C

NTR

CTI

3.1.2

•

3.1.3

Headpho

Phones. C

Level.

Source.

will use th and the Cu

Only the h

Aux/Cue

nnects headp

usts the outp

Adj

hanges the in

selected Ma Source whe

adphones wit

ontrol

hones to the

t level of the

ut source of

in source wh

the associate

a source of

onitor Stati

ssociated he

the associate n the associa

d Phones Sou

ue’ will hea

n’s four head

dphone ampli

headphone ed Phones S

rce button is i

the talkback

hone amplifi

ier.

mplifier. A

urce button i

n the down po

icrophone.

rs.

eadphone am s in the up p sition.

plifier

sition

•

Aux Input.

Cue Outpu

Phono. E

the Phono when the s

Turn the

Adjusts the i

. Adjusts the

gages and dis

button to eng

urce of the A

ux Input leve

put level of t

level of the C

engages the

ge the Phon

ux input is a

knob down b

e Auxiliary (

e L/R output

onitor Statio

preamp. Th

inyl record pl

fore engagin

RCA) input.

n’s built-in ph

phono prea

yer, such as

the phono p

ono preampli

plifier is typi

DJ turntable

amp: it adds

ier. Press an

cally only nec

. .

+32 dB gain

d hold essary

Page 18

CONTROLS & CONNECTION

3.1.4 Source Control

• Main Source.

outputs, Main L/R outputs and any headphone amplifiers whose sou rce is set to ‘Main’.

By default, the Main and Cue Source buttons are in Input Sum mode and can all be selected simultaneously. For more information on changing the Source Control mode, please refer to section 2.3 of this User’s Manual.

• Cue Source.

and any headphone amplifiers whose source is set to ‘Cue’.

• Input LED Meter.

By default, the Input LED Meter has a reference level of 0 dB = +10 dBu. For more information on changing the Input LED Meter’s reference level, please refer to section 2.3.

Sets the Main bus’ input sources. The Main bus is the source for the Speaker

Sets the Cue bus’ input sources. The Cue bus is the source for the Cue L/R outputs

Shows the input level of the Main bus.

Page 19

NTR

CTI

3.1.5

Speaker

ontrol

•

Speaker L

these knob attenuate

•

Speaker S

typically u speaker p nuances in

By default For more User’s Ma

vel Adjust.

s fully clock

our speaker o

Activ

elect.

ed to quickl

ir is likely t

the mix you

the Speaker

information

ual.

ine tunes the

ise (Unity G

utputs during

tes the Spea

compare yo

have differ

ight not have

Select button n changing t

output level o

in). Ideally,

the calibratio ker Outputs

r mix on dif nt output ch

noticed other

are in Com e Speaker S

each stereo

these should

process. , B and C.

erent sets of

aracteristics

ise.

mode and

lect mode,

utput pair. only be adju

The Speaker reference m

nd quality,

an all be sele

lease refer t

he optimum l

ted below U

Select butto

nitors. Sinc

ou will ofte

ted simultan

section 2.3

vel of ity to

s are each hear

ously.

f this

Page 20

)

NTR

CTI

3.1.6

•

Main Lev

Main Leve

Mono. C

outputs). bus is help and right application application

Mute.

Dim. Atte

Dim Atten

l Control

l. Adjusts the

nverts the st

he mono su

ul when mixi

hannels. T s (such as a s, etc.).

es the Main

uates the Ma

ation. Adjus

output level

reo Main b

ming bus is g in stereo to is is especial

ell phone rin

us (does not

in bus by the

s the amount

f the active S

s source to

nly active wh determine if

ly useful whe

tone, teleph

ffect the Mai

mount set by

of attenuatio

eaker sets (

mono signa

en the Mono

our mix has

n your stere

ne message s

L/R outputs

the Dim Atte

applied by th

, B and C).

(does not a

utton is lit. ny phasing is mix is also

stem, certai

uation knob.

e Dim feature

fect the Mai

The mono su

ues between t

intended for

Internet bro

n L/R

ming

he left

mono

dcast

Page 21

CONTROLS & CONNECTION

3.2 BACK PANEL LAYOUT

3.2.1 Inputs

• Talkback Mic.

• ST1.

• ST2.

Connects a stereo source to the Stereo 1 input bus.

Connects a stereo source to the Stereo 2 input bus.

Connects a dynamic microphone to the built-in talkback microphone preamplifier.

• Aux / Phono. Connects an unbalanced stereo source to the Auxiliary input bus.

Page 22

3.2.2 Outputs

• Main.

from the Main Source selection and are not affected by any of the Main bus level controls.

• Cue.

from the Cue Source selection and are only affected by the Cue Input Level control knob.

• A.

active when the Speaker A button is active.

• B.

active when the Speaker B button is active.

• C.

when the Speaker C button is active.

3.2.3 Power

CONTROLS & CONNECTION

Connects the Main bus to a stereo device. The Main L/R outputs derive their signal directly

Connects the Cue bus to a stereo device. The Cue L/R outputs derive their signal directly

Connects the Main-Speaker A bus to a stereo device. The Speaker A L/R outputs are only

Connects the Main-Speaker B bus to a stereo device. The Speaker B L/R outputs are only

Connects the Main-Speaker C bus to a stereo device. The Speaker C L/R outputs are only active

• AC Power Input.

• Power.

in the up position ( | depressed ) and off when this switch is in the down position ( O depressed ).

16VAC 10Watts

Connects the Monitor Station’s included 16 VAC power supply.

Turns the Monitor Station On or Off. The Monitor Station is on when the Power switch is

Page 23

TECHNICAL INF ORMATIO N

4.1 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Why can’t I hear the talkback microphone?

•

Remember, only headphones with a Phones Source of ‘CUE’ can hear the talkback microphone.

• Connect and/or calibrate your talkback microphone according to section 2.1.7.

• Verify your external mic does not require phantom power.

• If you are not using an external microphone, disconnect anything connected to the XLR input.

Why do I see levels on the LED meter but not hear anything thro u gh t h e spe ake rs?

The LED meter only measures the Monitor Station’s input, so seeing level is only half the battle.

•

• Connect and calibrate your speakers according to sections 2.1.5 and 2.1.6.

• Ensure the correct Speaker Select button is lit and its Speaker Level Adjust knob is turned up.

• Disengage the Talk, Mono, Mute and Dim buttons. Then slowly turn up the Main Level knob.

• Move your speakers to a different output to verify the outputs are functioning prope rl y.

• Connect the input source directly to your speakers to verify the speakers are functioning properly.

I have everything turned all the way up, but my speakers still aren’t loud enough … what gives?

•

The Monitor Station is not an amplifier, so please do not try to use it as one.

• The only inputs with any preamp gain are the Aux/Phono and exte rn al mi croph o ne inpu ts.

• The only outputs with any gain are the headphone amplifi ers.

Why doesn’t the Main Level knob control the Main Outs?

•

Because the Monitor Station was not design ed to fu nc ti o n th at way.

• The Main Outs should be used for devices needing an unaffected signal, such as a CD recorder.

Why won’t the Monitor Station change modes for me?

Remember, you can only set one mode per power up, so do not try to hold two buttons down.

•

• You must be holding down the mode-changing button the instant the power switch is flipped on.

• Set the mode according to section 2.3.

Page 24

TECHNICAL INF ORMATIO N

4.2 TROUBLESHOOTING

Please note that many technical issues can arise when connecting different components in a studio environment. PreSonus can only provide support for issues directly related to the Monitor Station Studio Control Center. It may be necessary to contact the manufacturer(s) of your other studio equipment to obtain additional technical support. PreSonus does not provide support for issues in regards to non-PreSonus hardware or software.

Please check our website, www.PreSonus.com If you experience any difficulty with your Monito r Station, please try the follo wing before Contacting PreSonus

Customer Support:

1) Check our Web site at www.PreSonus.com troubleshooting techniques specific to the Monitor Station.

2) Power cycle and disconnect / reconnect your Monitor Station power cable.

3) Check your connection cables and audio source(s).

4) Check your headphones and speakers.

5) Isolate the problem to your Monitor Station by disconnecting your input sources and monitor systems and testing them independently to ensure they are functioning properly.

For technical assistance, visit our Web site at www.PreSonus.com 6pm CST (GMT -06:00) or e-mail us at techSupport@PreSonus.com

When contacting technical support, please have the following information at hand:

¾ A brief description of what equipment and connections are being made to your Monitor Station. ¾ The desired application of your Monitor Station in your studio environment. ¾ Your Monitor Station serial number

, regularly for information, updates and technical support.

for answers to frequently asked questions and for

, call us at 225.216.7887 between 9am and

(located on the bottom of your unit)

Page 25

TECHNICAL INF ORMATIO N

4.3 SPECIFICATIONS

Audio Inputs

Talkback Microphone

Gain Range ..................................................................................................................... +15 to +55 dB

Internal Microphone

Type ...................................................................................................................... electret condenser

Sensitivity .............................................................................................................................. -42 dB

External Input

Type ............................................................................................................... XLR Female Balanced

Input Impedance (Balanced) ................................................................................................. 1200 Ω

Maximum Gain ....................................................................................................................... 50 dB

Maximum Input Level .......................................................................................................... -10 dBu

Frequency Response .................................................................................... 10 Hz to 40 kHz, ±1 dB

Stereo 1 and Stereo 2 Inputs

Type ............................................................................................................... ¼” TRS Active Balanced

Input Impedance (Balanced) ......................................................................................................... 10 kΩ

S/N Ratio (1 kHz @ 0 dBu, Unity Gain) ................................................................................... >110 dB

THD+N (unwtd, 1 kHz @ 0 dBu Output, Unity Gain) ............................................................ <0.0075%

Frequency Response (±0.5 dB) ..................................................................................... 10 Hz to 65 kHz

Noise Floor (20 Hz to 20 kHz, 150 Ω input termination) ........................................................... -96 dBu

Maximum Input Level (Minimum Gain, 1 kHz @ 0.5% THD+N) .............................................. +22 dBu

Auxiliary Inputs

Type ................................................................................................................. RCA Active Unbalanced

Input Impedance .......................................................................................................................... 47 kΩ

S/N Ratio (1 kHz @ 0 dBu, Unity Gain) ................................................................................... >115 dB

THD+N (unwtd, 1 kHz @ 0 dBu Output, Unity Gain) ................................................................ <0.01%

Frequency Response (±0.5 dB) ..................................................................................... 10 Hz to 50 kHz

Gain Range ................................................................................................................. -80 dB to +10 dB

Phono Mode Gain .......................................................................................................... 32 dB @ 1 kHz

Phono Mode THD+N ................................................................................................................ <0.05%

Phono Mode Noise Floor (40 dB gain, inputs shorted) ............................................................... -72 dBu

Input Meters (ST1, ST2 & Aux only)

Type .................................................................................................. Dual 8-segment LED w/ peak hold

Sensitivity Range ............................................................................................................ -24 dB to 0 dB

Page 26

TECHNICAL INF ORMATIO N

Audio Outputs

Type .................................................................................................................... ¼” TRS Active Balanced

Output Impedance (Balanced) ............................................................................................................ 51 Ω

THD+N (unwtd, 1 kHz @ 0 dBu, Unity Gain) ............................................................................... <0.003%

Frequency Response (±0.5 dB) .......................................................................................... 10 Hz to 50 kHz

Speaker A, B and C

Trim Range .................................................................................................................... -80 dB to 0 dB

Main Level Range .......................................................................................................... -80 dB to 0 dB

Dim Attenuation Range ................................................................................................. -30 dB to -6 dB

Cue

Main Level Range .......................................................................................................... -80 dB to 0 dB

Dim Attenuation (Talkback activated ........................................................................................... -20 dB

Headphones

Type ................................................................................................................... ¼” TRS Active Stereo

Maximum Output (60 Ω load) ................................................................................... 150 mW / channel

Frequency Response (±1.0 dB) ..................................................................................... 10 Hz to 50 kHz

Power

Power Supply Type ....................................................................... External AC Transformer / Internal Line

Input Connector Type .......................................... Barrel, 5.5 mm outside diameter, 2.1 mm inside diameter

Monitor Station Input Voltage Range ............................................................................................. 16 VAC

Power Requirements (Continuous) ....................................................................................................... 10W

As a commitment to constant improvement, PreSonus Audio Electronics, Inc. reserves the right to change any specification stated herein at an y time without notification.

Page 27

TECHNICAL INF ORMATIO N

4.4 BLOCK DIAGRAM

Mic rophone

Internal

External

PHON O

RIAA

ST1

ST2

RIGHT CHANNEL INPUTS

( Same as Left Channel )

Talkback

Level

INT/EXT

Level

TALKBACK

AUX

Left I nput B us

LEFT CHANNEL INPUTS

TALK

Cue Input Bu s

Main Input Bus

Cue Out put Bu s

Main Ou tput Bus

CUE/MAIN

PHON ES

Level

HEAD PHONE # 4

Level

CUE/MAIN

PHON ES

Level

HEAD PHONE # 3

CUE/MAIN

PHON ES

Level

HEAD PHONE # 2

CUE/MAIN

PHON ES

HEAD PHONE # 1

Cu e O utpu t Bu s

Level

CUE

Level

CUE

CUE OUTPUT

Main Output Bus

DIM

MUTE

Level

DIM

Level

CUE

MONO

Attenuators

MAIN

Meters

MAIN OUTPUT

MASTER

SPKR O utput Bus

HEADPHONES

SPKR C

SPKR B

SPKR A

SPEAKERS

PreSonus Monitor Station User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual