Soundcraft SM16 USER GUIDE

SOUNDCRAFT

USER GUIDE

16

 Soundcraft Electronics Ltd. 1993
All rights reserved
Parts of the design of this product may be protected by worldwide patents.

Part No. ZM0035
Issue 1

Information in this manual is subject to change without notice and does not
represent a commitment on the part of the vendor. Soundcraft Electronics Ltd.
shall not be liable for any loss or damage whatsoever arisin g 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 rec ording, for any purp ose
without the express written permission of Soundcraft Electronics Ltd.

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

Soundcraft Electronics Ltd.
Cranborne House
Cranborne Industrial Estate
Cranborne Road
Potters Bar
Herts.
EN6 3JN
England

Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]

&RQWHQWV

Introduction 1

Introduction 2
Precautions and Safety Instructions 4
General Precautions 4
Handling and Transport 4
Power Supplies and Cables 4
Signal Levels 5

Installation 7

Installation 8
Wiring Considerations 8
Power Supply (CPS900) 8
Connections 9
Wiring Conventions 9

Module Block Diagrams 11

Input Module 15

Module Description, Operation and Specification 16
Jumper Options (RH PCB) 19

Group Output Module 23

Module Description, Operation and Specification 24

Master Module 29

Module Description, Operation and Specification 30
Jumper Options 34

Appendices 37

Specification Notes 38
Performance Specifications 39
Dimensions 40
Warranty 41
Glossary 42

Introduction

Introduction 1

,QWURGXFWLRQ

The SM16 is a 16 bus dedicated monitor console to complement the Vienna and
Europa FOH desks.

The key features of the SM16 are:

• 16 mono sends

• stereo send

• individual ON and PRE/POST fade switching on all sends

• 4 programmable mute groups

• 4 band sweep EQ

• linear faders on all inputs and outputs

• sophisticated solo system with autocancel, central global clear and

switchable input priority.

• metering for all inputs

• external inputs for all group and stereo mix buses, with leve l c ontrol and

solo facility

Frame Sizes

Power Supplies

• balanced inserts on all outputs with bypass switching, and preinser t solo

facility

The SM16 is available in three frames sizes, 32, 40 and 48 channels. The frames
are configured, from left to right:

• inputs 1 - 24

• master

• groups 1 - 8

• inputs 25 - 32 (32 channel)

• inputs 25 - 40 (40 channel)

• inputs 25 - 48 (48 channel)

All frame sizes will use the CPS900 PSU. Connection to the console is via an 8way
and a 16-way SRC connector below inputs 21-24. The SRC panel also carries a
ground binding post.

Lamps

Three BNC connectors for lamps are fitted to all frame sizes - one on the master
module, and one at either end of the console on the infill panels. These are suitable
for Littlite or similar 12V lamps taking up to 330mA each. The voltage supply to
the lamps can be varied betwee n 1.5v (dim) and 12v (bright) by the dimmer control,
mounted under the armrest in front of the master module.

2 Introduction

Metering

Each input module has its own bargraph meter in the overbridge. The groups are
metered by bargraphs which are next to the faders on the output modules.

The stereo mix/solo metering is by two illuminated VU meters, with integral peak
LEDs, in the overbridge above the master module.

Introduction 3

3UHFDXWLRQVDQG6DIHW\,QVWUXFWLRQV

General Precautions

Caution!

Handling and Transport

Power Supplies & cables

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 brush is ideal. Use only
water or ethyl alcohol to clean the trim and scribble strips. Other solvents may c ause
damage to paint or plastic parts.

Avoid using the console close to strong sources of electromagnetic radiation (e.g.
video monitors, highpower electric cabling): this may cause degradation of the audio
quality due to induced voltages in connecting leads and chassis. For the same
reason, always site the power supply away from the unit.

In all cases, refer servicing to qualified personnel.

The console is supplied in a wooden crate. 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 regula rly moved we
recommend that it is installed in a foamlined flightcase. At all times avoid applying
excessive force to any knobs, switches or connectors.

Always make sure that the power supply unit (PSU) has been set to the same voltage
as the mains supply

Warning!

Always use the power supply and cable supplied with the mixer: the use of
alternative supplies may cause damage and voids the warranty; the extension of
power cables may result in malfunction of the mixing console.

Always switch the power supply off before connecting or
disconnecting the mixer power cable, removing of installing
modules, and servicing. In the event of an electrical storm, or large
mains voltage fluctuations, immediately switch off the PSU and
unplug from the mains.

Always ensure that you use the correct PSU for your mixer. The SM16 uses a
CPS900 power supply.

4 Introduction

Signal Levels

It is important to supply the correct input levels to the console, otherwise signalto
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 commonmode DC, AC or RF voltages, as these will reduce the
available signal range on the inputs. Note that 0dBu = 0.775V RMS.

The microphone inputs are designed for use with balanced low impedance (150 or
200 ohms) microphones.

Caution!

DO NOT use unbalanced microphones or battery powered
condenser microphones without isolating the +48V phantom power:
degraded performance or damage to the microphone may result.

The sensitivity of the XLR inputs is variable from -2dBu to -70dBu and +10dBu to

-20dBu in two ranges (for +4dBu at the Mix outputs). The maximum input level is
+28dBu.

The Hi-Z inputs have a sensitivity variable between +10dBu and -20dBu. The
maximum input level is +30dBu.

The main outputs of the console (stereo mix, groups, wedge and mix and group
insert sends) are balanced at a nominal level of +4dBu, with a maximum output
level of +26dBu.

The input insert sends and direct outputs are ground co mpensated at a nominal level
of -2dBu, with a maximum output level of +20dBu.

All external inputs and mix and group insert returns have a nominal level of + 4dBu,
and a maximum input level of +26dBu.

Input insert returns have a nominal level of -2dBu, and a maximum input level of
+20dBu.

Introduction 5

6 Introduction

Installation

Installation 7

,QVWDOODWLRQ

The SM16 is designed for reliability and high performanc e, and is built to the highest
standards. Whilst great care has been taken to ensure that installations are made as
troublefree as possible, care taken at this stage, followed by correct setting up will
be rewarded by a long life and reliable operation.

Wiring Considerations

Power Supply (CPS900)

Warning!

A For optimum performance it is essential for the earthing system to be clean and
noisefree, as all signals are referenced to this earth. A central point should be
decided on for the main earth point, and all earths should be ’star-fed’ from this
point. It is recommended that an individual earth wire be run from each electrical
outlet, back to the system star point to provide a safety earth re ference for each piece
of equipment.

B Install separate mains outlets for the audio equipment, and feed these
independently from any other equipment.

C Avoid locating mains distribution boxes near audio equipment, especially tape
recorders, which are very sensitive to electroma gn etic field s.

D Where possible ensure that all audio cable screens and signal earths are
connected to ground only at their source.

Always ensure that you use the correct PSU for your mixer. The SM16 uses a
CPS900 power supply.

Before switching on your SM16 console, check that the mains
voltage selectors on the power supply unit is set to the correct
mains voltage for your area, and that the fuse is of the correct rating
and type. This is clearly marked on the case of the power supply.
Do not replace the fuse with any other type, as this could become a
safety hazard and will void the warranty.

8 Installation

&RQQHFWLRQV

Wiring conventions

MICROPHONE INPUTS

TALKBACK INPUTS

EXTERNAL RETURNS

The SM16 uses two different types of audio connec tor: 3-pin XL R a nd
jacks. The latter are used in several configurations, as shown below.

MIX L, R & WEDGE OUTPUTS

GROUP & TB OUTPUTS

1

/4" ‘A’ Gauge Stereo Jack Plug used as balanced input:

Line inputs, insert returns

AFL & PFL OUTPUTS

1

⁄

" 3-pole

4

1

/4" ‘A’ Gauge Stereo Jack Plug used as ground compensated output:

Input insert sends, Input direct outputs

1

/4" ‘A’ Gauge Stereo Jack Plug used as balanced output:

Mix insert sends, Group insert sends

1

/4" ‘A’ Gauge Stereo Jack Plug used as stereo output: Headphones

Installation 9

10 Installation