Spl MIXDREAMXP User Manual

MixDream XP

Discrete Class A

16 in 2 summing mixer

1/2 3/4 5/6 7/8

Mono Mono Mono Mono

Manual

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4

7

-

Variable

Output

0

2

1

-

3

1

-

7

4

1

-

dB

Output

3

5

9/10 11/12 13/14 15/16

Mono Mono Mono Mono

Expansion

Input

POWER

Model

2591

MixDream XP

Model 2591

Analog 16:2 summing unit

Manual MixDream XP

Version 1.0, 5/20 05

Designer: Ruben Tilgner

This manual contains a description of the product. It in no way
represents a guarantee of particular characteristics or results
of use. The information in this document has been carefully
compiled and verified and, unless otherwise stated or agreed
upon, correctly describes the product at the time of packaging
with this document.

Sound Performance Lab (SPL) continuously strives to improve
its products and reserves the right to modify the product
described in this manual at any time without prior notice. This
document is the property of SPL and may not be copied or repro­duced in any manner, in par t or fully, without prior authorization
by SPL.

CE Declaration of Conformity

Manufacturer: SPL electronics GmbH

Typ e of Equipment: Audio Signal Processor

Product: MixDream XP, Model 2591

Model 2591

Compliance Engineer: Wolfgang Neumann

Tes t Basis:
EN 50081-1:1992, EN 50082-1:1992, EN 60065:1993 , EN 61000 ­3-3:1995, EN 60065:2002, EN 55013:2001, EN 55020:2002,
EN 61000-3-2:2000, 73/23 EWG; 93/68 EWG.

We herewith declare, that the construction of the MixDream XP,
model 2591, is in compliance with the standards and regulations
mentioned above.

SPL electronics GmbH

Sohlweg 55, 41372 Niederkruechten, Germany
Tel. [phone], Fax [phone]
EMail: [e-mail]
Internet: www.soundperformancelab.com

© 2005 SPL el ectronics GmbH. All rights reserved. Names of other companies

2

and their products are trademarks of their respective owners.

Introduction .................................................................... 4

Analog vs. Digital Summing ............................................ 4

Advantages And Special Features ................................... 5

MixDream XP Advantages—An Over view ......................... 5

Connection of Samplers, Keyboards etc. ......................... 5

Mono Switches ................................................................ 5

Before You Begin ............................................................ 6

Rear Panel/Connections ................................................. 7

Wiring ............................................................................. 7

General advices .............................................................. 8

Input Channels ................................................................ 9

Main Outputs ......................................................................

Monitor Outputs ............................................................. 9

Control Elements ............................................................ 10

Output Control ................................................................ 10

Variable Output Switch ................................................... 10

Mono Switch ................................................................... 10

Expansion Input Switch ................................................... 10

GND-Lift Switch ............................................................... 11

Applications and Modes of Operation ............................. 11

Summing ........................................................................ 11

Summing of Subgroups ................................................... 11

MixDream XP in Mastering Applications ........................... 12

Linking Several MixDream XP ........................................... 12

9

Contents

Block Diagram ................................................................. 13

Measurements ................................................................ 14

Power Supply .................................................................. 16

Specifications, Dimensions and Weight ........................... 17

Warranty ......................................................................... 18

MixDream XP

3

Introduction

The MixDreamXP design plan provides for stereo mixdown at the
analog level. This concept offers high-grade analog summing
without panorama and fader controls, in turn allowing an engi­neer to retain the entire scope of his computer automation. In
use, the MixDreamXP requires almost no departures from an
engineer‘s usual working mode, so that all his trusted DAW
features and familiar working routines remain available while
the MixDreamXP seamlessly expands his aural mixing palette.

One MixDreamXP can sum up to 16 audio tracks to a stereo
signal, and should the need arise for more than 16 tracks,
several MixDreamXP may be linked together. Owners of a
MixDream, model 2384, can expand this unit with the cost effec­tive MIxDreamXP at an identical quality level and by the way,
that‘s where the suffix “XP“ comes from (=Expansion).

The MixDreamXP discrete class A technology is based on the
same 60-volt rails (+/- 30V) of the MixDream model 2384.
Newly developed circuitry, based on the most modern analog
components, guarantees an extremely high slew rate, a very
low noise level of -97 dBu and a dynamic range of 125 dB. Thus
the MixDreamXP easily reaches the technical level of the best
analog consoles.

Analog vs. Digital Summing

Nowadays, many are asking whether analog summing is better
than digital summing. But perhaps the real question is whether
digital summing better than analog summing? We at SPL don‘t
know of anyone who says so. We do know that summing with
the MixDreamXP creates an amazing signal depth, precise local­ization and a wonderful stereo imaging. Moreover, the addition
of individual instruments results in soft and pleasant transi­tions.

These are analog summing results that we appreciate from
past decades of the best analog technology. The MixDreamXP
now allows DAW users to exploit this potential with maximum
comfort and uncompromising quality, ensuring that nothing can
stand in the way of the engineer ‘s having the best of both analog
and digital worlds.

4

MixDream XP

MixDreamXP Advantages—An Overview

• Hig h-grade analog summing on just 1U rack space for amaz ing
signal depth, precise localization and a wonderful stereo
imaging

• No analog mixing console necessary

• No loss of computer automation

• Lower DAW processor utilization rates

• Latency free monitoring

• Surround capable (from up to 3 MixDream XP units)

• Channel capacity expandable through linked units

• Cost-effective expansion for the MixDream model 2384

Special Features

Connection of Sampler, Keyboards etc.

Along with DAW audio tracks and effects machines or proces­sors in the insert loops, samplers, keyboards and expanders
may also be connected directly to the MixDreamXP. Then the
Midi tracks need only be added in the DAW project, the outputs
(for example, from a keyboard) are then routed directly to the
MixDreamXP.

Advantages

Mono Controls

To save conver ter c hannels, all channels may be switched to
Mono so that two signals can be converted by a paired D/A.

In this case such signals are characteristically chosen which
would receive a more central placement in the stereo mix (e.g.
kick, snare, lead vocal, bass). All channel pairs must otherwise
be panned hard left/right in the mix (see „mono switches“ on
page 10).

MixDream XP

5

Before You Begin

It makes good sense to think about where you place your
MixDream XP before connecting it. It should be positioned so
that you can easily reach it, but there are other considerations.
Try not to place it near heat sources or in direct sunlight,
and avoid exposure to excessive vibrations, dust, heat, cold
or moisture. It should also be kept away from transformers,
motors, power amplifiers and digital processors.

IMPORTANT: Adjust the voltage setting on the rear panel so

230 V – 50 Hz/315 mA
115 V – 60 Hz/630 mA

VOLTAGE/FUSE

that it corresponds to your local power conditions! Before
connecting the MixDream XP or any other equipment turn off
all power!

• Do not open the case. You may risk electric shock and damage

• Leave repairs and maintenance to a qualified service techni-

• To avoid electric shock or fire hazards, do not expose your

to your equipment.

cian. Should foreign objects fall inside the case, contact your
authorized dealer or support person.

unit to rain or moisture.

• In case of lightning, unplug the unit.

• Always unplug the cable by pulling on the plug only; never
pull on the cable.

• Never force a switch or knob.

• Use a soft, lint-free cloth to clean the case. Avoid cleaning
agents as they may damage the unit. if necessary, use an
acid-free cleaning oil instead.

6

MixDream XP