Solid State Logic XLogic X-Rack Super-Analogue Owner's Manual

X-Rack Owner’s Manual

Super-Analogue™ Outboard

Owner’s Manual

82S6XR010E

Solid State Logic

S O U N D

V I S I O N

SUPERANALOGUE

X - R A C K

X-Rack Owner’s Manual

As research and development is a continual process, Solid State Logic reserves the right

to change the features and specifications described herein without notice or obligation

E&OE

Initial Release (Rev. 0A), September 2005

Added Mic Amp and EQ Modules (Rev. 0B), April 2006

Added Line Return and Master Modules (Rev. 0C), October 2006

Added 8 Input Summing Module (Rev. 0D), February 2007

Added E Series EQ and Dynamics Modules (Rev. 0E), October 2008

Minor updates to Line Return, Master and 8 Input Summing Modules (Rev. 0E), January 2009

Solid State Logic

S O U N D

| |

V I S I O N

Begbroke, Oxford, England, OX5 1RU • +44 (0)1865 842300

320 West 46th Street, 2nd Floor, New York, NY 10036, USA • +1 (1) 212 315 1111

Suite 401, 5757 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036, USA • +1 (1) 323 549 9090

3-55-14 Sendagaya, Shibuya-Ku, Tokyo 151-0051, Japan • +81 (0)3 5474 1144

7 bis, rue de la Victoire, le Blanc Mesnil, Paris 93150, France • +33 (0)1 48 67 84 85

Via Timavo 34, 20124 Milano, Italy • +39 (0)39 2328 094

Visit SSL at URL: http://www.solid-state-logic.com

Solid State Logic, SSL and XLogic are trademarks of Solid State Logic

All other product names and trademarks are the property of their respective owners

No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or

by any means, whether mechanical or electronic, without the

written permission of Solid State Logic, Oxford, England

Contents I

Contents

1. Introduction 1

1.1 Overview 1

1.1.1 This Manual 1

1.2 Warranty 1

1.2.1 Out of Warranty Repairs 1

1.2.2 All Returns 1

2. Safety Considerations 2

2.1 Definitions 2

2.3 Installation 2

2.2 Electrical Safety Warning 2

2.4 Graphical Symbols 3

3. X-Rack Installation 4

3.1 Assembling the X-Rack 4

3.2 Mounting 4

3.3 Connection 5

3.3.1 Power Connection 5

3.3.2 Audio Connection 5

3.3.3 Connection to an AWS 900 or Matrix Console 5

3.3.4 MIDI Connection 5

3.3.5 Mix Bus Link 5

4. Operation – Total Recall 6

4.1 Overview 6

4.2 Stand-alone Mode 6

4.2.1 Saving Stores to Internal Memory 6

4.2.2 Recalling and Displaying Stores 6

4.2.3 Exiting Display Mode 6

4.2.4 Copy/Swap 7

4.2.5 Deleting Stores 7

4.2.6 Delete All 7

4.3 Remote Mode 7

4.3.1 System Requirements 7

4.3.2 Operation 7

4.4 Setup/MIDI Mode 8

4.4.1 Overview 8

4.4.2 MIDI (m1) 9

4.4.3 Write Protect Mode (pr) 10

4.4.4 Remote Mode (re) 10

4.4.5 Address Setting (ad) 11

4.4.6 Record/Mix (rm) 11

4.4.7 Show Version (ve) 11

4.4.8 Test Mode (te) 12

4.4.9 Set DIM Level (d1) 12

4.5 Software Download and Installation 13

4.5.1 System Requirements 13

4.5.2 Software Update 13

5. Miscellaneous 15

5.1 X-Rack Internal Links and Fuses 15

Continued…

X-Rack Owner’s Manual

Contents II

5.1.1 Fuses (Mains Inlet) 15

5.1.2 Internal Fuses 15

5.1.3 Links 15

5.2 X-Rack Connector Details 15

5.3 Physical Specification 17

5.4 Environmental Specification 17

A. Mic Amp Module A-1

A.1 Connection A-1 A.2 Operation A-1 A.3 Performance Specification A-3 A.4 Calibration Information A-5 A.5 Connector Details A-6 A.6 Physical Specification A-6 A.7 Environmental Specification A-6

B. EQ Module B-1

B.1 Connection B-1 B.2 Operation B-1 B.3 Performance Specification B-3 B.4 Calibration Information B-5 B.5 Connector Details B-7 B.6 Physical Specification B-7 B.7 Environmental Specification B-7

D. Dynamics Module D-1

D.1 Connection D-1 D.2 Operation D-1 D.3 Performance Specification D-3 D.4 Calibration Information D-4 D.5 Connector Details D-6 D.6 Physical Specification D-6 D.7 Environmental Specification D-6

E. Line Return Module E-1

E.1 Introduction E-1 E.2 Connection E-1 E.3 Operation E-1 E.4 Performance Specification E-3 E.5 Calibration Information E-4 E.6 Connector Details E-5 E.7 Physical Specification E-6 E.8 Environmental Specification E-6

F. Master Module F-1

F.1 Introduction F-1 F.2 Connection F-1 F.3 Operation F-1 F.4 Configuration F-3 F.5 Performance Specification F-5 F.6 Calibration Information F-6 F.7 Connector Details F-7 F.8 Physical Specification F-8 F.9 Environmental Specification F-8

…Continued

Continued…

G. Summing Module G-1

G.1 Introduction G-1 G.2 Connection G-1 G.3 Operation G-1 G.4 Performance Specification G-2 G.5 Connector Details G-3 G.6 Physical Specification G-4 G.7 Environmental Specification G-4

H. VHD Mic Amp Module H-1

H.1 Connection H-1 H.2 Operation H-1 H.3 Performance Specification H-3 H.4 Calibration Information H-4 H.5 Connector Details H-6 H.6 Physical Specification H-6 H.7 Environmental Specification H-6

J. Stereo Compressor Module J-1

J.1 Connection J-1 J.2 Operation J-1 J.3 Performance Specification J-2 J.4 Calibration Information J-3 J.5 Connector Details J-4 J.6 Physical Specification J-4 J.7 Environmental Specification J-4

K. E Series EQ Module K-1

K.1 Connection K-1 K.2 Operation K-1 K.3 Performance Specification K-3 K.4 Calibration Information K-5 K.5 Connector Details K-7 K.6 Physical Specification K-7 K.7 Environmental Specification K-7

L. E Series Dynamics Module L-1

L.1 Connection L-1 L.2 Operation L-1 L.3 Performance Specification L-3 L.4 Calibration Information L-4 L.5 Connector Details L-6 L.6 Physical Specification L-6 L.7 Environmental Specification L-6

Contents III

…Continued

X-Rack Owner’s Manual

Solid State Logic

OXFORD • ENGLAND

ogic

SUPERANALOGUE

X - R A C K

SETUP/

MIDI

SAVE

Push to Select

COPY/

DEL

TOTAL RECALL

Empty

Wr Prot

SEL

XR621

MIC

INST

IMP

+48V

PAD

LINE

REC

GND

LIFT

INSTRUMENT

OUTPUT

SIGNAL

LO HI

+75+12

+20-20

KHz

9 6

350

30 4

30 600

160 300

SEL

XR621

MIC

INST

IMP

+48V

PAD

LINE

REC

GND

LIFT

INSTRUMENT

OUTPUT

SIGNAL

LO HI

+75+12

+20-20

KHz

9 6

350

30 4

30 600

160 300

SEL

XR625

HMF

LMF

- +

G-EQ

KHz

221.5

105

2 15

7.6

1 5

KHz

2.0.2

1.0.6

.3 1.6

60040

220

SEL

+10-30

COMPRESSOR

GATE/

EXPANDER

KEY

0.1

RELEASE

0.1

+10

THRESHOLD

-20

RATIO

RANGE

0 40

FAST

ATT

LINK

RELEASE

THRESHOLD

EXP

201410

HOLD

0 4

FAST

ATT

XR618

SEL

XR623

LEVEL

PAN

INS

REC

LINE 1

LEVEL

PAN

INS

REC

LINE 2

LEVEL

PAN

INS

REC

LINE 3

LEVEL

PAN

INS

REC

LINE 4

MONO

SEL

XR623

LEVEL

PAN

INS

REC

LINE 1

LEVEL

PAN

INS

REC

LINE 2

LEVEL

PAN

INS

REC

LINE 3

LEVEL

PAN

INS

REC

LINE 4

MONO

SEL

XR622

MIX LEVEL

AFL

LEVEL

MIX

REC

MONITOR

SUM

MON

SUM

INS

REC

MIX

EXT

ALT

SOLO

DIM

CUT

MONITOR

036

12151824303642

MONO

SEL

XR624

INS

INPUT 1/2

INS

INPUT 3/4

INPUT 5/6

INPUT 7/8

MONO

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

This equipment must be Earthed. Refer

to manual for installation instructions.

CAUTION! Disconnect all power sources

before removing any panel(s).

WARNING! Unearthed metal parts may be

present inside enclosure. Check for

hazardous voltages before touching.

For protection against risk of fire - replace

only with same type/rating of fuse.

Do not expose to rain or moisture.

No user-servicable parts inside - to be

serviced only by qualified personnel.

12345678

TOTAL RECALL

LINK IN

MIDI IN MIDI OUT

TOTAL RECALL

LINK OUT

This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules.

Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

(1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and

(2) This device must accept any interference received,

including interference that may cause undesired operation.

This class A digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003

MIX BUS LINK

OUT

LINE

OUT

LINE

OUT

+4dBu

-10dBV

OUT

+4dBu

-10dBV

KEY

LINE IN INSERT

SEND/

RTN

1 - 4

LINE IN INSERT

SEND/

RTN

1 - 4

INSERT

SEND/

RTN

1 — 4

LINE IN

1 — 8

INS RTN

EXT

MON

ALT MON

INS SND

MIX

REC

FOL MON

TESTED

DATE INITIALS

(IEC127)

Model

Serial No.

Solid State Logic

Oxford England

FUSErisk of fire, use same type

andrating

250V

Ratings:AC ~ 50/60Hz

Volts

Amps

629935X1

XRK001

100-240 0.5-0.2

NONE

Page 1

Introduction

1. Introduction

1.1 Overview

The Solid State Logic X-Rack unit has been developed from the successful range of XLogic outboard equipment and provides a flexible solution to those engineers requiring a larger number of processing units in a compact package.

The additional space provided by the X-Rack allows the processing modules to be vertically orientated, providing a more familiar interface to users of Solid State Logic’s renowned range of mixing consoles, and makes it possible to include Solid State Logic’s Total Recall system – the first time this has been available on an analogue outboard unit.

1.1.1 This Manual

The object of this manual is to provide purchasers of the X-Rack unit with information in the following areas:

• Operation of the unit

• Safety considerations

• Installation requirements

• Electrical connections and cabling

• Connector pin-outs

• Specifications and physical dimensions

This manual is applicable to X-Rack units from serial number XRK110 onwards and assumes that the X-Rack unit is running V1.4/2 or later software. Please refer to Section 4 of this manual for instructions on how to check the current software version and how to obtain and install a newer version if required.

1.2 Warranty

Pursuant to the Solid State Logic Terms and Conditions, under European consumer law the purchaser has full statutory warranty rights for two years from the date of delivery of the product. The warranty is valid only in those Member States of the European Union (EU) who have adopted the applicable EU law into their national legislation, otherwise a warranty term of one year will apply. The applicable national legislation governing the sale of consumer goods is not affected by this warranty. Warranty claims will only be accepted if the purchased product has been used for its intended purpose. Any purchased product used for an unintended purpose will not be eligible for warranty protection. For all warranty inquiries or claims please address the claim to us if the purchase was directly from us or otherwise to the dealer from which you purchased the product within a period of two months from the date on which you detected its lack of conformity with the terms of the warranty. Please include your original proof of purchase when

initiating the claim.

1.2.1 Out of Warranty Repairs

In the event of a fault arising after the warranty period has expired the unit should be returned to Solid State Logic either directly or via your local dealer. You will be charged for the time spent on the repair (at Solid State Logic's current repair rate) plus the cost of parts and shipping. Note that no units can be accepted for repair without prior arrangement (see below).

1.2.2 All Returns

• No unit will be accepted for repair by Solid State Logic unless accompanied by a valid RMA (Return Material Authorisation) number, obtainable from Solid State Logic prior to shipping.

• All units should be shipped to Solid State Logic in suitable rigid packaging – Solid State Logic cannot be held responsible for any damage caused by shipping units in other packaging. In such cases Solid State Logic will return the unit in a suitable box, which you will be charged for.

• Please include all items – such as this manual, cables etc. – originally provided with unit.

Page 2

X-Rack Owner’s Manual

2. Safety Considerations

This section contains definitions and warnings, and practical information to ensure a safe working environment. Please take time to read this section before undertaking any installation work.

2.1 Definitions

‘Maintenance’ All maintenance must be carried out by fully trained personnel. Note: it is advisable to observe suitable ESD

precautions when maintenance to any part is undertaken.

‘Non-User Adjustments’

Adjustments or alterations to the equipment may affect the performance such that safety and/or international compliance standards may no longer be met. Any such adjustments must therefore only be carried out by fully trained personnel.

‘Users’

This equipment is designed for use solely by engineers and competent operators skilled in the use of professional audio equipment.

‘Environment’

This product is a Class A product intended to form an integrated component part of a professional audio recording, mixing, dubbing, film, TV, radio broadcast or similar studio wherein it will perform to specification providing that it is installed according to professional practice.

2.3 Installation

Voltage Selection and Fusing

The X-Rack unit has an auto-sensing power supply that can operate on 100 – 230V without adjustment.

The X-Rack power supply module is internally fused. If the fuse should fail for any reason the unit should be returned to Solid State Logic for repair/replacement as appropriate.

Safety Earth Connection

Any mains powered item of Solid State Logic equipment that is supplied with a 3-core mains lead (whether connectorised or not) should always have the earth wire connected to the mains supply ground. This is the safety earth and grounds the exposed metal parts of the racks and cases and should not be removed for any reason. Note that the earth stud provided on the rear of the equipment is a functional earth not a safety earth.

2.2 Electrical Safety Warning

When installing or servicing any item of Solid State Logic equipment with power applied, when cover and/or blank panels are removed, HAZARDOUS CONDITIONS CAN EXIST.

These hazards include: High voltages

High energy stored in capacitors High currents available from DC power busses Hot component surfaces

Any metal jewellery (watches, bracelets, neck-chains and rings) that could inadvertently come into contact with uninsulated parts should always be removed before reaching inside powered equipment.

Page 3

Safety Considerations

Mains Supply and Phases

To ensure safe operation of this equipment, connect only to an ac. power source that contains a protective earthing (PE) conductor. This equipment is designed for connection to single phase supplies with the neutral conductor at earth potential – category TN or TT – and is fitted with a protective fuse in the live conductor only. This equipment is not designed for use with live and neutral connections reversed or where the neutral conductor is not at earth potential (IT supplies). This equipment should not be connected to a power system that switches open the return (neutral) lead when the return lead also functions as the protective earth (PE).

Mains cables will be coded with the following colour scheme:

LIVE: Brown

NEUTRAL: Blue

EARTH: Yellow/Green

Mains Isolation and Over-Current Protection

An external disconnect device is required for this equipment; a detachable power cord, as fitted to this equipment, is a suitable disconnect device. Note that the socket outlet used for the detachable power cord should be installed near the equipment and should be easily accessible.

An external over-current protection device is required to protect the wiring to this equipment which must be installed according to current wiring regulations. The fusing or breaking-current is defined in the environmental specification in Section 5.0 of this manual. In certain countries this function is supplied by use of a fused plug.

CE Certification

Note that the majority of cables supplied with Solid State Logic equipment are fitted with ferrite rings at each end. This is to comply with current European CE regulations and these ferrites should not be removed. If any of the equipment metalwork is modified in any way the CE certification status of the product may be adversely affected.

Note that a frame or chassis terminal stud (functional earth) has been fitted to this equipment to provide a convenient low impedance bonding point for interconnected equipment, should it be required.

FCC Notice

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at his own expense.

Instructions for Disposal of WEEE by Users in the European Union

The symbol shown here is on the product or on its packaging, which indicates that this product must not be disposed of with other waste. Instead, it is the user’s responsibility to dispose of their waste equipment by handing it over to a designated collection point for recycling of waste electrical and electronic equipment. The separate collection and recycling of your waste equipment at the time of disposal will help to conserve natural resources and ensure that it is

recycled in a manner that protects human health and the environment. For more information about where you can drop off your waste equipment for recycling, please contact your local city office, your household waste disposal service or where you purchased the product.

2.4 Graphical Symbols

The following symbols may be used either on the product or in this manual:

Protective Earth (ground).

Frame or Chassis terminal. (Functional Earth)

General hazard – refer to user or service manual for details.

Electrical hazard.

Page 4

X-Rack Owner’s Manual

3. X-Rack Installation

3.1 Assembling the X-Rack

The X-Rack unit is normally shipped either as an empty rack (SSL Part No. 729935X1), a part filled (custom) rack or as a fully loaded unit; for example, a unit fitted with eight 729618X1 Dynamics modules (SSL Part No. 729935X2) – if you have purchased a fully loaded unit you should skip the rest of Section 3.1.

In the case of empty or part filled racks, any empty module slots will be covered by blank panels which will need to be removed before fitting additional modules. Panels for module slots and the Total Recall/CPU are secured, top and bottom, by a ‘one piece’ floating threaded bar. The position of the bar is factory set so that there is adequate space to accommodate eight module panels. The correct position of the threaded bars is initially set when the Total Recall/CPU module is installed and screwed in position against the inside right edge of the rack.

Do not attempt to fit or remove modules with power applied. Always switch the rack off and remove the power cord prior to working on this unit. When fitting or removing modules, it is advisable to observe suitable ESD precautions. Take care when handling modules and blank panels; sharp corners may be present.

Modules are fitted from the front of the X-Rack, normally starting from the left hand end. Note that it is recommended that any required blank panels (SSL Part No. 729618X2) are fitted prior to fitting modules. Each module plugs into the backplane; use the two 8mm M3 counter sunk screws supplied with the module or blank to fix the item to the front of the rack – a 2mm AF hex key is supplied with the X-Rack unit. The rear connector panel or blank should be screwed to the rear of the case using the two 8mm M3 button head screws supplied with the module. The end result should be a unit that is fully loaded with modules and/or blank panels. For ease of fitting, do not tighten the screws until all modules and/or blank panels have been fitted.

To ensure peak operating performance, please ensure all front and rear panel fixing screws are securely tightened; slight warping on the rear of the chassis may be observed – this is no cause for concern.

Generally, any module may be fitted in any position but with the following provisos:

• To use the Dynamics Link function, Dynamics modules must be placed in adjacent slots.

• The Dynamics Link function should only be used with similar types of Dynamics module!

• Only one Master module should be fitted in any one X-Rack.

• When fitting a Master module to X-Rack serial no. XRK0110 or earlier, the module should be fitted immediately to the right of any modules which use either the Mix, Record or Solo/AFL Buses. This limitation does not apply to later X-Rack units.

3.2 Mounting

The X-Rack unit is designed to be rack mounted or free standing. It is 4RU (178mm/7 inches) high. Its depth is:

• 180 mm/7.2 inches

• 255 mm/10.2 inches including connectors

The unit does not require rack shelves. A 1RU space should normally be provided above the unit.

The unit is supplied fitted with both feet and rack ears. If the unit is to be rack mounted the feet should be removed using the supplied 2.5 mm AF hex driver. The same driver can be used to remove the rack ears if the unit is to be free standing.

Feet and rack ears are fixed using M4 x 8mm screws – do not replace them with longer screws as this may damage the rack electronics.

Page 5

3.3 Connection

3.3.1 Power Connection

The X-Rack unit has an auto-sensing power supply that can operate on 100 – 230V without adjustment. The power connection is made via a standard IEC mains cord to an un-switched IEC mains socket on the rear panel and a latching power switch is provided on the front panel of the unit.

3.3.2 Audio Connection

Generally, each module will have an input connector (normally a female XLR) and an output connector (normally a male XLR). Depending upon the type of module other connectors, such as key inputs, may be present also. Connect the module inputs to the insert sends of your console or to your workstation outputs. Connect the module outputs to the corresponding insert returns or to your workstation inputs.

Once the unit is connected switch it on, then route a signal to each channel in turn and check that it is returned to the correct input on your console or workstation.

Some module input and output gains can be set to operate at a nominal level of +4dBu or –10dBV using a switch on the connector panel. Select the appropriate level for the equipment you are connecting to. If in doubt either refer to the section of this manual specific to the particular module or experiment!

3.3.3 Connection to an AWS 900 or Matrix Console

If the X-Rack is being used with an AWS 900 or AWS 900+, connect the TOTAL RECALL LINK IN connector (a 9 pin D- type) to Serial Port 1 on the conole’s connector panel using the supplied 2 metre cable. If connecting to a Matrix console, connect the cable to the X-RACK/DIAG connector. For either console, this cable may be extended to a maximum of 15 metres using a suitable pin to pin extension cable.

If you have more than one X-Rack unit connect the

TOTAL RECALL LINK IN connector on the second unit to the TOTAL RECALL LINK OUT connector on the first unit using

the supplied cable. Further units may be connected in the same manner up to a maximum of four (AWS 900/900+) or six (Matrix).

3.3.4 MIDI Connection

The MIDI port can be used for several functions:

• Archiving of the 32 internal stores as SysEx (System Exclusive) dumps

• Remote control of the ‘soft’ functions of the XR622 Master module

• Updating the system software

If you wish to use this facility connect the X-Rack MIDI IN connector to a spare MIDI out connector on your MIDI interface and the X-Rack MIDI OUT connector to the corresponding MIDI input.

A separate connection is required for each X-Rack.

3.3.5 Mix Bus Link

Some X-Rack modules can route signals onto the X-Rack’s internal mix busses. This 25-way ‘D’ type connector is provided to enable access to these buses and, using this connector, multiple X-Racks may be connected together enabling a large stereo mix system to be constructed. The pinout for this connector is detailed in Section 5.2.

TOTAL RECALL

LINK IN

MIDI IN

MIDI OUT

TOTAL RECALL

LINK OUT

X-Rack Installation and Operation

Page 6

X-Rack Owner’s Manual

4. Operation – Total Recall

4.1 Overview

The Total Recall computer stores all of the switch and rotary control positions for each X-Rack module in one of thirty two internal stores. These can be recalled and compared with the current settings using front panel LEDs to show which controls do not match. If the module layout has changed since the snapshot was taken, only the modules that match will be recalled.

The contents of all the stores can be archived and restored as a MIDI system exclusive data dump.

Additionally, the X-Rack can interface with the Total Recall system on AWS 900, AWS 900+ or Matrix consoles. This allows the settings of up to four (AWS 900/900+) or six (Matrix) X-Rack units to be stored along with the console settings.

4.2 Stand-alone Mode

4.2.1 Saving Stores to Internal Memory

A maximum of 32 stores can be saved in internal non-volatile memory, provided the stores have not been write-protected – indicated by the ‘Wr Prot’ LED being illuminated.

First select a store by turning the D-Pot , then press SAVE to store all of the current control positions.

If the store has already been used the SAVE LED will flash. Press the

SAVE switch a second time to overwrite the store.

4.2.2 Recalling and Displaying Stores

To select a store using the D-Pot then press the D-Pot to select that store.

The current store is displayed on the dual 7-segment display .

If the selected store is empty the ‘Empty’ LED lights and the unit will not switch to display mode.

With a valid store selected, the X-Rack module SEL LEDs will light if the module type in the store (EQ, Dynamics etc.) matches the module currently fitted in that slot. A flashing SEL LED indicates that some controls on that module do not match the stored positions. A steady LED shows that all controls are matched. The switch LEDs will light if the current switch position does not match the stored positions. Press or release the switch as required to extinguish the LED.

Above each rotary control is a bi-colour LED:

The LED extinguishes when the control matches the stored position.

If a store is already being displayed when you select a different store the display will flash and the new store will not become active until you press the D-Pot for a second time.

4.2.3 Exiting Display Mode

Push the D-Pot a second time to exit display mode.

All SEL LEDs will extinguish and the channel switch LEDs will now show the position of their respective switches.

The LED lights red if the control needs turning anti-clockwise.

The LED lights green if the control needs turning clockwise.

4 5

ush to Select

SAVE

ETUP/

MIDI

AVE

Push to Select

OPY/

DEL

TOTAL RECALL

Empty

Wr Prot

5 6 7

Page 7

X-Rack Installation and Operation

4.2.4 Copy/Swap

While displaying a TR setup pressing and holding a module SEL switch and then pressing a second SEL switch will swap the setting of the two channels.

Selecting COPY/DEL and then doing the same will copy settings from the first channel to the second.

Note that Copy/Swap is only allowed between similar modules; the unit will not allow you to swap settings between an EQ module and a Dynamics module for instance!

4.2.5 Deleting Stores

Stores can be cleared (to remove unwanted stores before a SysEx dump) by holding down COPY/DEL till it’s LED flashes and pressing the D-Pot switch (while still holding down the COPY/DEL switch). Additional stores can be deleted by holding down the COPY/DEL switch, selecting the second store with the D-Pot and pressing the D-Pot again.

4.2.6 Delete All

All stores can be cleared by holding down all three switches until their LEDs flash, then pressing the D-Pot switch.

4.3 Remote Mode

4.3.1 System Requirements

The X-Rack ‘TOTAL RECALL LINK IN’ connector must be connected to either AWS 900 serial port 1 or the X-RACK/DIAG connector on Matrix using the pin-to-pin serial lead supplied with X-Rack – see Section 3.3 for more details. If more than one X-Rack is connected each X-Rack must have a different address – refer to the Setup/MIDI Mode Section.

The AWS 900 must be running V1.2/6 or higher software and have Total Recall enabled for this to function. Current AWS 900 software can be downloaded from the SSL website.

4.3.2 Operation

Pressing the Total Recall STORE switch on the console will send a message to all attached X-Racks asking for the current control settings to be returned. The returned settings are appended to the console’s Total Recall stores and are automatically archived and restored as part of the console Total Recall system.

Similarly, displaying a Total Recall setup on the console will return the selected Total Recall setup to the XRack unit(s). The remote load command will always replace the current setup and the X-Rack display will read ‘re’.

To display the new settings, press the D-Pot as in ‘Stand-alone’ mode and to exit display mode press the D-Pot a second time. If the console store does not contain valid data (for example if it was saved on a console not connected to an X-Rack) the ‘Empty’ LED will light and it will not be possible to select display mode.

Settings can be saved to X-Rack’s local store and recalled at any time by turning the D-Pot (though see the Remote option in the Setup menu section). Storing the Total Recall settings on the console will always save the current state of the X-Rack and displaying a Total Recall setup will replace the store to be displayed with the store from the console.

See the Remote and the Address options in the Setup/MIDI Mode Section.

SETUP/

MIDI

SAVE COPY/

DEL

Push to Select

OPY/

DEL

Push to Select

COPY/

DEL

SEL+SEL

SEL

Page 8

X-Rack Owner’s Manual

4.4 Setup/MIDI Mode

4.4.1 Overview

Enter SETUP/MIDI mode by holding down SETUP/MIDI until the display reads ‘5e’. The SETUP/MIDI LED flashes to show you are in this mode. Press and hold the same switch to return to normal operation.

Navigating in the Setup menu

The setup menu contains a number of options. These each contain a number of sub-options. Turn the D-Pot to scroll through the main list of options and push the D-Pot to select an option for editing. The DPot will now scroll through the available list of possible settings for that option. Pressing the D-Pot again will save the currently selected setting and return to the normal option menu. The options are:

Option Display Setting Notes

Enter Setup 5e None

MIDI m1 MIDI Channel (ck) Select the MIDI channel to listen to for

remote control of the XR622 Master module (01 to 16 or al for all)

MIDI Learn (le) Define which MIDI controls operate

the XR622 Monitor module controls

Save (sa) and Load (l0) Send or receive SysEx data to save or

load all internal stores to a MIDI sequencer or librarian

Write Protect pr Off (0f) and On (0n) Toggles write protect on and off

Remote re Off (0f), On (0n) or MIDI (m1) Toggles remote Total Recall mode on

and off or enables MIDI remote control of the XR622 Monitor module controls

Set Address ad a1, a2, a3, a4 Sets X-Rack address for AWS Total

Recall interface

Record/Mix rm Sum (su) or Alternate (al) Record/Mix mode setting for the

XR623 Line Return module.

Show Version ve Displays software version

Test te Test LEDs (tl) All module LEDs flash

Test switches (t5) Press TR computer switches to light

corresponding LEDs

Test pots (tp) Shows position of pots

Update Software fl Program upgrade mode (te) The only exit from this mode, without

updating the X-Rack software, is to power-cycle the unit.

Dim Level d1 –3 (03) to –30 (30) dB Sets the ‘DIM’ level for the XR622

Monitor module

ETUP/

MIDI

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X-Rack Installation and Operation

4.4.2 MIDI (m1)

Under this menu it is possible to set the MIDI controls which can control parts of the X-Rack XR622 Master module and also to save and load all internal stores to and from a MIDI sequencer or librarian as a SysEx dump.

MIDI Remote Channel (ck)

Under the MIDI menu, use the D-Pot to select MIDI Channel. Then press the D-Pot and turn it to select the required channel (‘01’ to ‘16’ or ‘al’ for all/any channel). This is the MIDI channel that will be used for remote control of the XR622 Master module. By default X-Rack will listen on all channels.

MIDI Remote Learn (le)

Under the MIDI menu, use the D-Pot to select MIDI Learn (le) and press SAVE. The green ‘Wr Prot’ LED will flash to indicate you are in MIDI Learn mode. Operating any one of the ‘soft’ controls on the XR622 Master module will cause the LED of the selected control to flash (the module ‘SEL’ LED will flash if either of the potentiomenters have been chosen) – indicating it has been chosen. Assign a MIDI controller to the selected function by operating the required MIDI controller. To cancel or change the assignment either operate the Master module control again, or operate a different control. A successful assignment will be indicated by the flashing LED changing to just being illuminated steadily.

Only single controls can be mapped to a MIDI controller. Therefore, mapping an X-Rack control to a MIDI controller which is already in use will remove the previous mapping. The original X-Rack control will require re-mapping itself before it can be controlled again.

To exit MIDI Learn mode, press the D-Pot – the green ‘Wr Prot’ LED will stop flashing. Switch assignments can be reset to the system defaults by pressing COPY/DEL when in MIDI Remote Learn mode; the ‘Empty’ LED indicating when the assignments have been deleted.

MIDI Save and Load

In order to use the MIDI save and load utility the X-Rack must be connected to a computer running a suitable sequencer or MIDI librarian package.

All the stored setups can be saved as a System Exclusive dump to any software package that supports MIDI SysEx dumps. In practice this includes most packages and you would normally save the TR setups to an additional track in your current DAW project so that your setups are stored with the rest of the project.

Default MIDI Controller Mapping

MIDI Controller Master Module Control

1 MIX 2 REC 3 EXT 4 ALT 5 MONO 6 DIM 7 CUT 8 AFL Level 9 Monitor LEVEL

SAVE

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X-Rack Owner’s Manual

Saving Setups to a Mac or PC (sa)

With the X-Rack in Setup Mode, saving TR setups to Mac or PC can be achieved as follows:

• Under the MIDI menu, use the D-Pot to select MIDI Save.

• The display will show ‘5a’ and both the ‘SAVE’ LED and display flash.

• Create an additional MIDI track in your DAW program. Select its input and output to be the MIDI port connected to your X-Rack.

• If available select the track to store System Exclusive data and record enable the MIDI track.

• Press Play and Record on the DAW to put the MIDI track into record.

• Press the SAVE switch to start transmission of all saved Total Recall setups. A ‘rotatingsegment’ display will start and run until all data has been transmitted

• Once the display changes to ‘m1’ stop the DAW to end recording.

An unlimited number of Total Recall setups can be stored in this way.

Loading Setups from a Mac or PC (l0)

Restoring setups from a Mac or PC is even simpler:

• Enter MIDI mode as before, and turn the D-Pot until the display changes to ‘l0’ and begins to flash.

• Locate the DAW to just before the SysEx data containing the setups you wish to load.

• Play through the SysEx block of data. The display will show a rotating segment while data is received. As soon as the X-Rack detects the start of valid data it will delete all the current setups and replace them with the stored ones from the MIDI track.

4.4.3 Write Protect Mode (pr)

Write Protect prevents existing stores being over written or deleted, providing an extra level of protection for units that have been programmed with particular settings.

When set to ‘0n’ the Save and Delete functions are disabled. When set to ‘0f’ they are enabled. The ‘Wr Prot’ LED lights to show this mode has been selected.

4.4.4 Remote Mode (re)

This mode enables remote control of X-Rack, either from a console for saving and recalling Total Recall snapshots or from a MIDI controller for control of the XR622 Master module.

When Remote Mode is ‘0n’, selecting a TR setup on the console will change the current X-Rack setup to the one saved in the console. The X-Rack display will change to read ‘re’ (remote) and pressing the D-Pot will display the TR setup as normal. When Remote Mode is ‘0f’, turning the D-Pot will change the current

or or

SETUP/ MIDI

SAVE COPY/

DEL

ush to Select

AVE

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X-Rack Installation and Operation

X-Rack setup to one of the internal stores but when Remote Mode is set to ‘0n’ the D-Pot is disabled once the X-Rack has received a setup from the console. This also prevents saving or deleting of local stores.

When Remote Mode is set to MIDI (‘m1’), the ‘soft’ controls on the XR622 Master module may be remotely operated as MIDI controls. The Master module controls will continue to function until a valid MIDI packet has been received, after which all of the ‘soft’ controls will be locked out – this condition will be indicated by illumination of the right-hand decimal point in the X-Rack display. Which MIDI channels and controls are used is set through the MIDI learn process (see above).

Setting Remote Mode to MIDI will disable the console Total Recall connection.

4.4.5 Address Setting (ad)

If more than one X-Rack is to be connected to an AWS 900 then each must have a different address. Enter Address mode and turn the D-Pot so the display reads ‘a1’, ‘a2’, ‘a3’ or ‘a4’ then press the D-Pot to save the address:

The order of addressing is not important, but we recommend you address the racks in the order they are connected to the AWS 900. This will increase the chances of data being correctly mapped if you move to a different facility.

4.4.6 Record/Mix (rm)

This function is applicable only to X-Rack units fitted with one or more XR623 Line Return module(s). The ‘rm’ setting allows the REC switches on these modules to opperate in either ‘Alternate’ mode where the switches flip between the Record and Mix busses or ‘Sum’ mode where the Mix bus is permanently fed with signal routed to the Record bus only when the REC switch is pressed.

Select Record/Mix by turning the D-Pot till the display shows ‘rm’.

To select ‘Alternate’, turn the D-Pot to show ‘al’ then press the D-Pot to set it.

To select ‘Sum’, turn the D-Pot to show ‘su’ then press the D-Pot to set it.

4.4.7 Show Version (ve)

Select Show Version by turning the D-Pot till the display shows ‘ve’.

Press the D-Pot to show the software version in three blocks. As an example, software version ‘V1.3/1’ will display in this sequence before returning to display ‘ve’.

or or or

4.4.8 Test Mode (te)

This mode is used for testing the front panel switches and LEDs.

There are three test modes available, selected using the D-Pot as for the other Setup functions:

Test LEDs (tl)

This toggles the bi-colour LEDs above the pots between red and green.

Test Switches (t5)

This mode flashes all the channel switch LEDs. Pressing any switch (apart from SEL) should make the corresponding LED flash out of time with the other LEDs on the front panel.

Pressing a SEL switch should light the corresponding LED.

Pressing any of the switches on the TR computer section should flash the corresponding LED. Pressing the D-Pot should turn off the flashing ‘Empty’ LED and flash the ‘Wr Prot’ LED.

Test Pots (tp)

This mode scans all the modules from the top left to the bottom right of the unit and displays the value of the last rotary control not turned fully counter clockwise. If all controls are turned counter clockwise then the display shows ‘tp’.

To use this diagnostic first turn all controls fully counter clockwise. The module SEL LEDs will flash on all modules with a control not in the correct position and the individual pot LEDs will light green on all controls not in the correct position. Turning any control should make the display change from ’02’ to ‘255’. Note that ‘02’ is the lowest value that can be read before the pot is skipped.

The decimal points on the two displays are used to show numbers greater than ‘99’. The left hand decimal point lights to indicate that you should add a 100 to the displayed value and both decimal points light to show that you should add 200 to the displayed value, hence:

4.4.9 Set DIM Level (d1)

Select DIM Level by turning the D-Pot till the display shows ‘d1’.

Press the D-Pot to show the current DIM level. The level can be varied from –3dB (‘03’) to –30dB (‘30’). Press the D-Pot once more to change the DIM level.

‘101’ will display like this: whilst ‘201’ will display like this:

Page 12

X-Rack Owner’s Manual

Page 13

X-Rack Installation and Operation

4.5 Software Download and Installation

Software to upgrade your X-Rack unit should be downloaded from the SSL website (www.solid-state-

logic.com/support/utilities.html).

The X-Rack software is packaged as a 50kB (approximately) java archive, the format of which is compatible with both PC and Macintosh (PowerPC and Intel but OS X only) platforms. Some users may need

to install additional files on their computer before continuing – see System Requirements below.

4.5.1 System Requirements

PC users should ensure that they have the latest version of Java installed. This can be downloaded from

www.java.com

. There is a link to this address on the download page.

To enable Java to access external MIDI devices, Mac OS X users may need to download and install either ‘Plumstone’ (PowerPC) or ‘MandolaneMIDI’ (Intel) from www.mandolane.co.uk

. Drag this file into the

‘

/Library/Java/Extensions

’ folder then restart the Macintosh before running the upgrade utility.

4.5.2 Software Update

Once the software package has been downloaded, it will need to be moved onto a Mac or PC that is connected to the X-Rack via MIDI after which you will be ready to install the new software. The following steps detail this process:

1. Ensure that the X-Rack is turned on and connected to a MIDI port on your PC/Mac.

2. Enter Setup mode and turn the D-Pot until the display shows ‘fl’ (‘Flash’). Press the D-Pot and the display should change to read ‘te’ (‘Test’).

To exit from this mode without updating software turn the unit off and on.

3. Close all current applications on your PC/Mac.

4. If upgrading from V1.0/0 or V1.1/0 double click on the

xrack_flash.jar

file. If upgrading from V1.2/0 or

later, double click on the

xrack_vn_n_n.jar

file (where ‘

n_n_n

’ denotes the new version number). You

should see the SSL X-Rack Software Update Utility window appear:

5. Go to the In MIDI Port menu. Select the MIDI IN port which is connected to your X-Rack from the drop down list. In the example shown below this was ‘port 1’ on an 8-Port interface. If nothing appears in the list check that you have installed the files listed in the System Requirements section opposite.

Page 14

X-Rack Owner’s Manual

6. Go to the Out MIDI Port menu. Select the MIDI OUT port which is connected to your X-Rack:

Note that a PowerPC Macintosh (ie. using Plumstone Server) will show all MIDI Inputs at the top of the list, MIDI Outputs at the bottom. You must scroll to the middle of the list to see the MIDI Out ports.

7. Click on the Test button. This transmits a packet of data to the X-Rack which should return an acknowledgment to the computer. If the test was successful the message ‘Comms test passed, now use send’ will be displayed and the display on the X-Rack should change to read ‘se’.

If the test fails check that the correct MIDI port has been selected and that the X-Rack is in software download mode, then repeat the test.

8. Once you have established a valid connection click on the Send button. The new code will now be transferred to memory on the X-Rack. This process will take approximately 20 seconds. A progress bar and transfer counter will be displayed on screen to enable you to observe the transfer progress and the X-Rack displays will show a rotating segment.

During this time it is important that power to the X-Rack is not interrupted.

9. Once the software has been saved the X-Rack will re-boot. If you ran the ‘real’ X-Rack updater (a file named

xrack_vn_n_n.jar

where ‘

n_n_n

’ relates to the software version) go to step 10. If however you ran

the

xrack_flash.jar

updater, the X-Rack will automatically switch to programming mode ready to accept

the real X-Rack software. Double click on the

xrack_vn_n_n.jar

file and repeat steps 5 through 8.

10. Once the new software has been saved a message will appear ‘Software update completed’ and the XRack will re-boot using the new software. Click on ‘Exit’ to close the Update Utility.

Page 15

X-Rack Installation and Operation

5. Miscellaneous

5.1 X-Rack Internal Links and Fuses

5.1.1 Fuses (Mains Inlet)

The power supply module is internally fused. In the event of this fuse failing the entire unit should be returned to your nearest SSL Service agent.

5.1.2 Internal Fuses

The internal power rail fuses will automatically reset once a fault condition has been removed and should not need to be replaced.

5.1.3 Links

There are no user settable links.

5.2 X-Rack Connector Details

MIDI In

Location: Rear Panel

Conn’ Type: 5-pin DIN Female

Pin Description

1 n/c

2 0V

3 n/c

4 Signal +ve

5 Signal –ve

MIDI Out

Location: Rear Panel

Conn’ Type: 5-pin DIN Female

Pin Description

1 n/c

2 n/c

3 n/c

4 Signal +ve

5 Signal –ve

Total Recall Link In

Location: Rear Panel

Conn’ Type: 9-pin 'D' Type Male

Pin Description

1 Carrier (linked to 0V)

2 Rx

3 Tx

4 DTR (linked to DSR)

5 0V

6 DSR (linked to DTR)

7 RTS (linked to CTS)

8 CTS (linked to RTS)

9 RI (linked to 0V)

Total Recall Link Out

Location: Rear Panel

Conn’ Type: 9-pin 'D' Type Female

Pin Description

1 Carrier (linked to 0V)

2 Tx

3 Rx

4 DTR (linked to DSR)

5 0V

6 DSR (linked to DTR)

7 RTS (linked to CTS)

8 CTS (linked to RTS)

9 RI (linked to 0V)

Please note that the ‘D’ type connector binding posts fitted to the X-Rack chassis are all 4-40 UNC thread.

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X-Rack Owner’s Manual

5.2 X-Rack Connector Details (cont.)

Mix Bus Link

Location: Rear Panel

Conn’ Type: 25-pin ‘D’ Type Female

Pin Description

1 Chassis

14 AFL/Solo Bus Left (–ve)

2 AFL/Solo Bus Left (+ve)

15 Chassis

3 AFL/Solo Bus Right (–ve)

16 AFL/Solo Bus Right (+ve)

4 Chassis

17 Mix Bus Left (–ve)

5 Mix Bus Left (+ve)

18 Chassis

6 Mix Bus Right (–ve)

19 Mix Bus Right (+ve)

7 Chassis

20 Record Bus Left (–ve)

8 Record Bus Left (+ve)

21 Chassis

9 Record Bus Right (–ve)

22 Record Bus Right (+ve)

10 Chassis

23 AFL/Solo Enable

11 n/c

24 n/c

12 n/c

25 n/c

13 n/c

Please note that the ‘D’ type connector binding posts fitted to the X-Rack chassis are all 4-40 UNC thread.

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X-Rack Installation and Operation

5.3 Physical Specification

Depth: 180mm / 7.2 inches excluding front panel knob(s) and connectors

255mm / 10.2 inches including connectors, excluding front panel knob(s)

Height: 178mm / 7 inches (4 RU) excluding feet

Width: 440mm / 17.4 inches excluding rack ears

483mm / 19 inches including rack ears

Weight: 2.8kg / 6.2 pounds without modules fitted

3.5kg / 7.7 pounds with blank panels fitted

5.0kg / 11 pounds with modules fitted

Power: 50 Watts / 60VA with 8 modules fitted

Boxed size: 540mm x 300mm x 270mm / 21.25" x 12" x 10.63"

Boxed weight: 4.3kg / 9.5 pounds without modules fitted

5.0kg / 11 pounds with blank panels fitted

6.5kg / 14.3 pounds with modules fitted

* All values are approximate

5.4 Environmental Specification

Temperature Operating: 5 to 30 Deg. C

Non-operating: –20 to 50 Deg. C Max. gradient: 15 Deg. C/Hour

Relative Humidity Operating: 20 to 80 %

Non-operating: 5 to 90 % Max. wet bulb: 29 Deg. C (non-condensing)

Vibration Operating: < 0.2 G (3 - 100Hz)

Non-operating, power off: < 0.4 G (3 - 100Hz)

Shock Operating: < 2 G (10mSec. Max.)

Non-operating: < 10 G (10mSec. Max.)

Altitude Operating: 0 to 3000m (above sea level)

Non-operating: 0 to 12000m

Page 18

X-Rack Owner’s Manual

Page A-1

X-Rack Mic Amp Module

A. Mic Amp Module

A.1 Connection

The rear panel of the module carries the Mic (‘IN’) and Line input (‘LINE’) XLRs along with a single output (‘OUT’) XLR. The Line input and output operate at a nominal level of +4dBu although the gain of the Line input can be varied by a front panel control. Also contained on the front panel is an additional mono Jack socket for a high impedance Instrument input.

A.2 Operation

The X-Rack Mic module contains three seperate input amplifiers; a Microphone amplifier, an Instrument input and a Line input, any one of which may be selected at any one time. A set of High and Low Pass filters are also provided.

A.2.1 MIC Section

Normally, the Microphone input on the rear of the module will be selected (‘LINE’ and ‘INST’ switches released); pressing the ‘INST’ switch selects the mono jack instrument input on the front of the module. This is a very high impedance unbalanced input intended to be used with guitar pickups etc. To help alleviate ‘hum’, a ground lift (‘GND LFT’) switch has been provided which places a 1k2Ω impedance in series with the sleeve of this connector and audio ground in the module. The gain of these inputs is continuously variable between +12dB and +75dB.

The impedance of the Microphone input can be varied between ≈1k2Ω and ≈10kΩ by selecting the ‘IMP IN’ switch and adjusting the ‘Z’ control. This allows the connection of line level signals to the Microphone input if required, and provides an alternative input impedance for some dynamic microphones.

The ‘PAD’ switch reduces the signal level of both the Microphone or Instrument inputs by 20dB. Phantom power, for microphones requiring this, can be switched on using the ‘+48V’ switch. Please note that X-Rack units prior to serial number XRK0110

are not normally enabled for +48V. However, a field retrofit kit (629620XR) is available for these units. Any in-warranty X-Rack units can be upgraded free-of-charge; for units out of warranty a charge will be made. Please contact your local distributor to order this kit, if required.

Note. Please note that connecting a microphone to the X-Rack Mic module with phantom power

switched on is not advised as it may cause damage to either the microphone or the input stage of the X-Rack module. Take care not to connect line level sources (keyboards etc.) to the microphone input with phantom power switched on as this may damage the output stage of the connected unit.

A.2.2 LINE Section

The Line input on the rear of the module is selected by pressing the ‘LINE’ switch. The gain of this input can be varied by ±20dB from the nominal 0dB.

The Ø (Phase) switch reverses the phase of the selected input.

SEL

R621

MIC

INST

+48V

PAD

LINE

REC

GND LIFT

INSTRUMENT

OUTPUT

SIGNAL

LO HI

+75 +12

+20 -20

KHz

9 6

30 4

30 600

160 300

OUT

INE

+ 61 hidden pages

Solid State Logic XLogic X-Rack Super-Analogue Owner's Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual