Soundcraft LIVE 8 USER GUIDE

User Guide

IMPORTANT

Please read this manual carefully before using

your mixer for the first time.

Parts of the design of this product may be protected by worldwide patents.

Part No. ZM0335-02

Soundcraft is a trading division of Harman International Industries Ltd. Information in this manual is subject to change without notice and does not represent a commitment on the part of the vendor. Soundcraft shall not be liable for any loss or damage whatsoever arising from the use of information or any error contained in this manual.

No part of this manual may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, electrical, mechanical, optical, chemical, including photocopying and recording, for any purpose without the express written permission of Soundcraft.

Harman International Industries Limited Cranborne House Cranborne Road POTTERS BAR Hertfordshire EN6 3JN UK

Tel: +44 (0)1707 665000 Fax: +44 (0)1707 660742 http://www.soundcraft.com

Contents

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS 4 SAFETY SYMBOL GUIDE 6

Introduction 7

Installation 8

DPS-3 POWER SUPPLY 8 MAINS INSTALLATION 9 WORKING SAFELY WITH SOUND 10 INTERNAL JUMPER SETTINGS 11 AUDIO CONNECTOR PINOUTS 12 TYPICAL CONNECTING LEADS 13 DIMENSIONS 15

Block Diagram 16

Using The Console 17

MONO INPUT CHANNEL 17 STEREO INPUTS 20 GROUP SECTION 23 MASTER SECTION 24 METERBRIDGE 25

Applications 26

APPLICATION 1 - LIVE SOUND REINFORCEMENT 26 APPLICATION 2 - LIVE SOUND WITH CENTRE CLUSTER 27 APPLICATION 3 - ADDITIONAL STEREO INPUTS 28 APPLICATION 4 - THEATRE SOUND 29

Typical Specifications 30

Mark-up Sheets 31

Warranty 34

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

Read these instructions.

Keep these instructions.

Heed all warnings.

Follow all instructions.

Do not use this apparatus near water.

Clean only with a dry cloth.

Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.

Do not defeat the safety purpose of a polarised or grounding type plug. A polarised plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet

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

Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.

Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket or table specified by the manufacturer, or sold with the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury from tip-over.

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

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

Note: It is recommended that all maintenance and service on the product should be carried out by Soundcraft or its authorised agents. Soundcraft cannot accept any liability whatsoever for any loss or damage caused by service, maintenance or repair by unauthorised personnel.

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

Do not expose the apparatus to dripping or splashing and do not place objects filled with liquids, such as vases, on the apparatus.

No naked flame sources, such as lighted candles, should be placed on the apparatus.

Ventilation should not be impeded by covering the ventilation openings with items such as newspapers, table cloths, curtains etc.

THIS APPARATUS MUST BE EARTHED. Under no circumstances should the safety earth be disconnected from the mains lead.

The mains supply disconnect device is the mains plug. It must remain accessible so as to be readily operable when the apparatus is in use.

If any part of the mains cord set is damaged, the complete cord set should be replaced. The following information is for reference only.

The wires in the mains lead are coloured in accordance with the following code:

Earth (Ground): Green and Yellow (US - Green/Yellow)

Neutral: Blue (US - White)

Live (Hot): Brown (US - Black)

As the colours of the wires in the mains lead may not correspond with the coloured markings identifying the terminals in your plug, proceed as follows:

The wire which is coloured Green and Yellow must be connected to the terminal in the plug which is marked with the letter E or by the earth symbol.

The wire which is coloured Blue must be connected to the terminal in the plug which is marked with the letter N

The wire which is coloured Brown must be connected to the terminal in the plug which is marked with the letter L

Ensure that these colour codes are followed carefully in the event of the plug being changed

This unit is capable of operating over a range of mains voltages as marked on the rear panel.

NOTE: 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.

This Class A digital apparatus meets the requirements of the Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment Regulations.

Cet appareil numérique de la Classe A respecte toutes les exigences du Règlement sur le matériel brouilleur du Canada.

For your own safety and to avoid invalidation of the

warranty please read this section carefully.

SAFETY SYMBOL GUIDE

For your own safety and to avoid invalidation of the warranty all text marked with these symbols should be read carefully.

WARNINGS

The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol, is

intended to alert the user to the presence of un-

insulated “dangerous voltage” within the product’s

enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to

constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.

CAUTIONS

The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle

is intended to alert the user to the presence of

important operating and maintenance (servicing)

instructions in the literature accompanying the

appliance.

NOTES

Contain important information and useful tips on

the operation of your equipment.

HEADPHONES SAFETY WARNING

Contain important information and useful tips on

headphone outputs and monitoring levels.

Recommended Headphone Impedance >= 200 Ohms.

Introduction

Congratulations on your purchase of a LIVE 8 mixer. Owning a Soundcraft console brings you the expertise and support of one of the industry’s leading manufacturers and the results of over 22 years experience supporting some of the biggest names in the business.

Designed by engineers who understand the individual needs of musicians, LIVE 8 has been built to the highest standards using quality components and employing automated assembly techniques beyond the reach of most manufacturers of compact mixers.

A rugged steel chassis is combined with moulded side trims to give protection and distinctive appearance. Custom moulded controls, designed for the best `feel’ and visual clarity complement the styling, resulting in a truly professional product which is ideal for both touring and fixed PA installations.

LIVE 8 is available in 24, 32 & 40 channel frame sizes. All frame sizes incorporate removeable side cheeks to enable the console to be fitted compactly in a flight case.

LIVE 8 incorporates circuit technology identical to that used on some of the most sophisticated Soundcraft consoles, including new surface mount component techniques. The input channels are able to accept a wide range of Microphone and Line level signals from separate input sockets. Every channel features the UltraMic+™ input with wide range gain control, Phase switch, 4-band Equalisation with swept Hi and Lo Mid ranges, plus a Hi-Pass Filter, 6 Auxiliary Sends (2 pre-fade, 2 pre or post and 2 post-fade), PFL(Pre Fade Listen), Peak LED, Panning to a Stereo Bus and routing in pairs to eight Output Groups. Each channel has a separate Direct Output and is controlled by a high-quality long throw fader. All input channels may be assigned to a choice of four Mute Groups.

All frame sizes are provided as standard with 2 dedicated stereo inputs. Each stereo input comprises two separate input sections, one provided with comparable facilities to the mono inputs, and one more basic input for a cassette or CD player which routes to the stereo mix and two of the Aux outputs only.

The eight Output Groups provide submixing to the Mix L/R, either as stereo pairs or as mono sends to L & R. The Group outputs are available on separate connectors to feed external equipment directly. Each Group section incorporates matrix sends, PFL monitoring & bargraph metering. Eight external Stereo Return inputs are provided for effects or submixing from external sources and these route to Mix or to a pair of Groups.

Two Matrix outputs receive sends from each Group or Mix L & R as required.

The Master section provides master level control for the Left, Right, Matrix and Auxiliary Send buses, with separate AFL monitoring on each Matrix and Auxiliary output.

The Mix L/R and Group outputs all have insert points for the connection of external signal processing or graphic equalisation.

Comprehensive Talkback facilities are provided, which allow a talkback microphone to be routed to Mix L/R, Groups and Auxes 1-2 or 3-4. Ten 12-segment, 3-colour peak reading LED bargraph meters provide clear display of Mix L/R, Group and PFL signals. Pressing any PFL or AFL switch puts the selected signal onto both sides of the headphones output and the L & R bargraph meters in place of the Mix signal. Two LEDs monitor the status of the console power supply.

LIVE 8 is designed to be as user-friendly as possible, but a few minutes spent reading through this manual will help you become familiar with the product away from the pressure of a live session, and allow you to gain full benefit from the superb performance offered by your new mixer.

Above all, remember that your Soundcraft mixer is designed to extend your creativity. The more you explore the controls and the effect they have on the sound output, the more you will appreciate how you can influence and enhance the final sound.

For your own safety and to avoid

Installation

invalidation of the warranty please

read this section carefully.

General Precautions

Avoid storing or using the mixing console in conditions of excessive heat or cold, or in positions where it is likely to be subject to vibration, dust or moisture. Do not use any liquids to clean the fascia of the unit: a soft dry cloth is ideal.

Avoid using the console close to strong sources of electromagnetic radiation (e.g. video monitors, high-power electric cabling): this may cause degradation of the audio quality due to induced voltages in connecting leads and chassis.

Caution! In all cases, refer servicing to qualified personnel.

Handling and Transport

The console is supplied in a strong carton. If it is necessary to move it any distance after installation it is recommended that this packing is used to protect it. Be sure to disconnect all cabling before moving. If the console is to be regularly moved we recommend that it is installed in a foam lined flightcase. At all times avoid applying excessive force to any knobs, switches or connectors.

Power Cable

Always use the power supply cable supplied with the mixer: the use of alternative cables may cause damage and voids the warranty.

W a r n i n g ! In the event of an electrical storm, or large mains voltage

fluctuations, immediately switch off the mixer and unplug from the mains.

Signal Levels

It is important to supply the correct input levels to the console, otherwise signal to noise ratio or distortion performance may be degraded; and in extreme cases, damage to the internal circuitry may result. Likewise, on all balanced inputs avoid sources with large common mode DC, AC or RF voltages, as these will reduce the available signal range on the inputs. Note that OdBu =0.775V RMS.

Refer to the Specifications section for details of input and output levels.

DPS-3 POWER SUPPLY

The LIVE 8 is supplied with a DPS-3 power supply unit. Consult the DPS-3 manual before making any connections. Always use the power supply which is supplied with the console.

Ensure that the DPS-3 power supply is NOT connected to the Mains and is turned OFF.

The power supply can be positioned anywhere within reach of the LIVE 8 and an available power socket, but it is best rack-mounted in a position where airflow through the vents is not obstructed, and where the power switch or cables cannot be accidentally knocked.

Connect the multi-way power cable between the DPS-3 and the LIVE 8 power connector. Screw the connector locking rings clockwise on both units to secure the cable. The locking rings should be firm, but not tight. Connect the IEC type mains cable to the mains input socket on the DPS-3. Connect the other end to the nearest plug socket and switch on the power to the DPS-3.

MAINS INSTALLATION

General Wiring Procedures

To take full advantage of the excellent signal to noise ratio and low distortion of Soundcraft consoles, care must be taken to ensure that incorrect installation and wiring does not degrade the performance of the desk. Hum, buzz, instability and Radio Frequency interference can usually be traced to earth loops and inferior earthing systems. In some areas, especially heavily industrial areas, the incoming mains earth will not be adequate and a separate technical earth for all the audio equipment must be supplied. However, check with your local electricity supply company to ensure that safety regulations are not infringed or negated.

The successful, hum free, installation of a system requires forethought, and the establishment of a set of ground rules, which must be consistently adhered to at all stages of installation.

Initial Wiring Considerations

For optimum performance, it is essential for the earthing system to be clean and noise free, as all signals are referenced to this earth. A central point should be decided on for the main earth point system, and all earths should be 'star fed' from this point. It is common electrical practice to `daisy chain' the earths to all electrical outlets but this method is unsuitable for

audio installations. The preferred method is to run an individual earth wire from each outlet, back to the system star point to provide a safety earth screen reference for each piece of equipment.A separate earth wire should also be run from each equipment rack and area, to the star point. This may or may not be used depending on circumstances, but it is easier to install in the first place, than later when problems arise.The location of the star point should be a convenient, easily accessible place, preferably at the rear of the console or in the main equipment rack.

Install separate 'clean' and 'dirty' mains outlets, wired individually back to the incoming mains distribution box. Use the 'clean' supply for all audio equipment and the `dirty' supply for all lighting, etc. Never mix the two systems.

If necessary, to provide sufficient isolation from mains borne interference, install an isolating transformer. This should be provided with a Faraday Shield which must be connected with earth.

Never locate the incoming mains distribution box near audio equipment, especially tape recorders, which are very sensitive to electromagnetic fields.

Ensure that all equipment racks are connected to earth, via a separate wire back to the star point.

Equipment which has unbalanced inputs and outputs may need to be isolated from the rack to prevent earth loops.

Audio Wiring

Having provided all equipment with power and earthing connections, consideration must be given to the method of

providing audio interconnection and adequate screening of those interconnections. This must be done in a logical

sequence to avoid problems and assist in the localisation of problem equipment.

Connect the FOH or Monitor system to the console and check for any hum, buzz, or RFI. Only when you are satisfied with the quietness of the console and the PA system should you proceed with the next step.

Connect stereo or Multitrack Tape recorders, FX and foldback sends one at a time, checking and isolating any connection which degrades performance.

Connect all other peripheral devices.

Connect all microphone lines.

By following this sequence much time and future trouble will be saved, and the result will be a quiet, stable system.

Shielding

Audio equipment is supplied with a variety of input and output configurations, which must be taken into consideration when

deciding where the screen connections should be made. There are three sources of unwanted signal being impressed on

the screen, which are as follows:

Extraneous electrostatic or electromagnetic fields.

Noise and interference on the earth line.

Capacitive coupling between the screen and signal wires.

To minimise the adverse affects of the unwanted coupling to the signal wires, it is important that the screen is connected at one end only, i.e. the screen must not carry any signal current. Any signal on the wires within the screen will be capacitively coupled to the screen. This current will ultimately be returned to the source of the signal, either directly, if the screen is connected at the signal source end, or indirectly via the earthing system, if the screen is connected at the signal destination end. The indirect connection will cause an increase in high frequency cross-talk, and should be avoided wherever possible.

Therefore, in general, always connect the shield only at the signal source end. In high RF areas, the screen can also be connected to earth via a 0.01 mF capacitor. This will present a short circuit at RF frequencies, thus lowering the effective shield impedance to ground. However, at low audio frequencies the reactance of the capacitor will be sufficiently high not to cause an earth loop problem.

Points to Remember

In all cases, use good quality twin screened audio cable. Check for instability at the output.

Always connect both conductors at both ends, and ensure that the screen is only connected at one end.

Do not disconnect the mains earth from each piece of equipment. This is needed to provide both safety and screen returns to the system star point.

Equipment which has balanced inputs and outputs may need to be electrically isolated from the equipment rack and/or other equipment, to avoid earth loops.

It is important to remember that all equipment which is connected to the mains is a potential source of hum and interference and may radiate both electrostatic or electromagnetic radiation. In addition, the mains will also act as a carrier for many forms of RF interference generated by electric motors, air-conditioning units, thyristor light dimmers etc. Unless the earth system is clean, all attempts to improve hum noise levels will be futile. In extreme cases there will be no alternative but to provide a completely separate and independent `technical earth' to replace the incoming 'noisy earth'. However, always consult your local electricity supply authority to ensure that safety regulations are not being infringed.

WORKING SAFELY WITH SOUND

Although your new console will not make any noise until you feed it signals, it has the capability to produce sounds which when monitored through an amplifier or headphones can damage hearing over time.

The table below is taken from the Occupational Safety & Health Administration directive on Occupational noise exposure (1926.52):

PERMISSIBLE NOISE EXPOSURE

DURATION PER DAY, HOURS SOUND LEVEL dBA SLOW RESPONSE

890 692 495 397 2 100

1.5 102 1 105

0.5 110 <0.25 115

Conforming to this directive will minimise the risk of hearing damage caused by long listening periods. A simple rule to follow is the longer you listen the lower the average volume should be.

Please take care when working with your audio - if you are manipulating controls which you don’t understand (which we all do when we are learning), make sure your monitors are turned down. Remember that your ears are the most important tool of your trade, look after them, and they will look after you.

Most importantly - don’t be afraid to experiment to find out how each parameter affects the sound - this will extend your creativity and help you to get the best results.

Recommended Headphone Impedance 200-600 ohms.

INTERNAL JUMPER SETTINGS

MONO INPUT CHANNELS

The Mono Input channels are provided with three selectable options, using push-on jumpers on the circuit board.

To change the settings, simply pull off the jumper and replace on the adjacent pair of pins. The default settings are shown as shaded on the diagram below.

AUXILIARY PRE SOURCE

Default is POST-EQ, optionally Pre-EQ

DIRECT OUTPUT SOURCE

Default is POST-FADE, optionally Pre-fade

DIRECT OUTPUT PRE SOURCE

Default is POST-EQ, optionally pre-EQ

The diagram below shows the location of the jumpers on the circuit board, and with care can be changed without removing the circuit board from the mixer.

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