Manual
RackPack 4
Module Frame Model 1040
19“/3U Mounting Frame for four SPL RackPack Modules
Manual RackPack 4, Model 1040
Version 1.0 – 8/2010
Developer: Jens Gronwald
This user‘s guide 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 part or fully, without prior authorization by SPL.
SPL electronics GmbH
Sohlweg 80, 41372 Niederkruechten, Germany
Phone +49 (0)2163 983 40
Fax +49 (0)2163 983 420
E-Mail: info@spl.info
Internet: www.spl.info
CE Declaration of Conformity
The construction of this audio signal processor is in compliance with the standards and regulations of the European Community.
Notes on environmental protection
At the end of its operating life, this product must not be disposed of with regular
household waste but must be returned to a collection point for the recycling of
electrical and electronic equipment. The “wheelie bin“ symbol on the product,
user‘s manual and packaging indicates that. The materials can be re-used in
accordance with their markings. Through re-use, recycling of raw materials, or other forms
of recycling of old products, you are making an important contribution to the protection of
our environment. Your local administrative office can advise you of the responsible waste
disposal point.
WEEE Registration: 973 349 88
© 2010 SPL electronics GmbH. All rights reser ved.
Names of other companies and their products are trademarks of their respective owners.
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RackPack 4
Important Security Advices 4
Warnings, Symbols And Notes, Attention 5
Introduction 6
RackPack, RackPack Modules, Freedom As A Matter Of Principle 6
Hook Up 7
Scope Of Delivery, Recommendations on Module Configuration 7
Placement, Rack Mounting 7
Air Circulation, Power Connection, Signal Connections , On And Off 8
Rear Panel/Diagram 9
Fitting Modules 10
Content
Please Note, Step 1 (Top View) 10
Step 2 (Rear View), Step 3 (Front View) 11
Step 4 (Top View), Step 5 12
Link Cable Installation 13
Recommendations On Module Configuration 14
Power Supply 14
250 V Security Mode, Power Supply 14
Measurements And Weight 14
RackPack 4
3
Important Security Advices
Please note and retain this information. Carefully read and follow all of the safety and operating instructions before you use the machine. Be doubly careful to follow all warnings and
special safety instructions noted in this manual and on the unit.
This manual provides all information needed to fit or exchange RackPack modules. Module
manuals do not contain information on fitting and exchanging modules. You need this manual
everytime a module is to be fitted or exchanged.
If the manual is not at hand, you can download it like any other SPL product manual at
www.soundperformancelab.com.
Connections: Only use the connections as described. Other connections can lead to health
risks and equipment damage.
Water And Humidity: Do NOT use this machine anywhere near water (for example near a wash
basin or bath, in a damp cellar, near swimming pools, or the like). In such cases there is an
extremely high risk of fatal electrical shocks!
Insertion Of Foreign Objects Or Fluids: NEVER allow a foreign object through any of the
machine’s chassis openings. You can easily come into contact with dangerous voltage
or cause a damaging short circuit. NEVER allow any fluids to be spilled or sprayed on the
machine. Such actions can lead to dangerous electrical shocks or fire!
OPENING THE DEVICE: Open the device only to fit or exchange modules. The fitting and/or
exchange of modules should only be carried out by qualified persons. In the light of possible
physical damage or injuries any manipulation is at your own risk. In order to avoid exposure
to any residual voltage, the device should be disconnected from any power source at least 5
minutes before opening it. If you handle the device improperly or ignore the manual (part of
the delivery of the RackPack 4 frame) you risk to damage the device or expose yourself to an
electric shock. In these cases SPL electronics GmbH denies any responsibilit y.
Electrical Power: Run this machine ONLY from sources which can provide proper power at the
prescr ibed rating. When in doubt about a source, contac t your dealer or a professional electr ician. To be sure you have isolated the machine, do so by disconnecting the power cord from
your wall connection. Be sure that the power cord plug is always accessible. When not using
the machine for a longer period, make sure to unplug it from your wall power socket.
Power Cord Protection: Make sure that your power cord is arranged to avoid being stepped
on or any kind of crimping and damage related to such event. Do not allow any equipment or
furniture to crimp this power cord.
Power Connection Overloads: Avoid any kind of overload in connections to wall sockets,
extension or splitter power cords. Always keep manufacturer warnings and instructions in
mind. Overloads create fire hazards and risk of dangerous shock s!
Lightning: Before thunderstorms or other severe weather, disconnect the machine from wall
power (but to avoid life threatening lightning strikes, not during a storm). Similarly, before
any severe weather, disconnect ALL the power connections of other machines and antenna
and phone/internet cables which may be interconnected so that no lightning damage or overload result s from such secondary connections.
Air Circulation: Chassis openings offer ventilation and serve to protect the machine from
overheating. NEVER cover or otherwise close off these openings. NEVER place the machine
on a soft surface (carpet, sofa, etc.). Make sure to provide for a mounting space of 4-5 cm/2
inches when mounting the machine in racks or cabinets.
Controls and Switches: Operate the controls and switches only as described in the manual.
Incorrect adjustments outside safe parameters can lead to damage and unnecessary repair
costs. Never use the switches or level controls to effect excessive or extreme changes.
Repairs: Unplug the machine and immediately contact a qualified technician when you think
repairs are needed – or when moisture or foreign objects may accidentally have gotten in to
the housing, or in cases when the machine may have fallen and shows any sign of having been
damaged. This also applies to any situation in which the machine has not been subjected to
any of these unusual circumstances but still is not functioning normally or its performance is
4
RackPack 4
substantially altered. In cases of damage to the power cord or its plug, first consider turning
off the main circuit breaker before unplugging the power cord.
Spare Parts: Be sure that any service technician uses original spare parts or those with identical specifications as the originals. Incorrectly substituted parts can lead to fire, electrical
shock, or other dangers, including further equipment damage.
Safety Inspection: Be sure always to ask a service technician to conduct a thorough safety
check and ensure that the state of the repaired machine is in all respects up to factory standards.
Cleaning: In cleaning, do NOT use any solvents, as these can damage the chassis finish. Use
a clean, dry cloth (if necessary, with an acid-free cleaning oil). Disconnect the machine from
your power source before cleaning.
Important Security Advices
Warnings
DO NOT PLACE THE MACHINE IN SUCH A WAY THAT IT MIGHT COME INTO CONTACT WITH OR SIT
ON ANY FLUIDS. AVOIDING SUCH CONTACT WILL AVOID HAZARDS FROM FIRE, DANGEROUS
ELECTRICAL SHOCK OR MACHINE DAMAGE. DO NOT OPEN THE MACHINE.
Symbols And Notes
ALSO IN THIS MANUAL A LIGHTNING SYMBOL WITHIN A TRIANGLE WARNS YOU ABOUT THE
POTENTIAL FOR DANGEROUS ELECTRICAL SHOCKS – WHICH CAN ALSO OCCUR EVEN AF TER
THE MACHINE HA S BEEN DISCONNECTED FROM A POWER SOURCE.
AN EXCLAMATION MARK (!) WITHIN A TRIANGLE IS INTENDED TO MAKE YOU AWARE OF
IMPORTANT OPERATIONAL ADVICE AND/OR WARNINGS THAT MUST BE FOLLOWED. BE
ESPECIALLY ATTENTIVE TO THESE AND ALWAYS FOLLOW THE ADVICE THEY GIVE.
The symbol of a lamp directs your attention to explanations of important functions or applications.
Attention
Do not attempt any alterations to this machine without the approval or supervision of SPL
electronics GmbH. Doing so could nullify completely any and all of your warranty/guarantee
rights and claims to user support.
RackPack 4
5
Introduction
RackPack
The RackPack 4 modular system system allows you to set up a very compact, customized
analog rack on only 3 U rack space – equipped with both approved and new SPL specialties
providing you one-of-a-kind processing, highly effective handling and superior audio quality.
RackPack Modules
The Transient Designer opens a new dimension in dynamic processing with its unique levelindependent signal processing. Imitated especially by several software applications, the
original Transient Designer remains the state-of-the-art ... well, transient designer.
The DynaMax x compressor is incomparably musical and easy to handle. Thanks to its signaldependent automation it is the perfect “set’n’forget” compressor for demanding studio and
live applications.
Just as efficient and advanced in quality is SPL’s Dual-Band De-Esser module. It has been the
first device of its kind to use phase cancellation as a means to reduce sibilants. Much more
unobtrusive than the common frequency-based compression, the SPL DeEsser has proven
it’s technological prominence all over the world.
Further highlights are the two preamp modules Preference Mic Pre and Premium Mic Pre. As
an alternative to our tube preamps they are based upon the proven design of our Atmos®
multi-channel recording system. The Premium Mic Pre provides the same triple stage design
with transformer in- and outputs like the Atmos® system, thus ensures the same referenceclass results. The Preference Mic Pre offers a superior price/performance ratio to meet the
highest demands in all areas of miking, and while a continuous preamp quality is of immeasurable value especially with multichannel recordings, it is impressively economical as well
now with the Preference Mic Pre module.
Further modules complete the RackPack system that includes the whole range of analogue
peripheral equipment and allows for perfect integration into any live and studio environment:
From the passive equalizers Bass Ranger and Vox Ranger, which are specialized to certain
instrument groups, through tube saturation and harmonics effects with the TwinTube module,
the RackPack system builds a frame to cover the whole set of SPL’s expertise in analog signal
processing technology.
Freedom As A Matter Of Principle
Whether you need an effects rack or individual channel strips: The RackPack system offers
the maximum freedom to compose customized setups for varying challenges in any live or
studio environment.
Internally we have purposely dispensed with a bus system for connections to and between
modules. Instead each module provides balanced XLR in- and outputs, so free routing
between modules is ensured. Furthermore each module can also be integrated into any
studio- or live- environment just like a stand-alone device. And since two outputs are available simultaneously on each module, you can route from any module additionally while
it is connected already to another module (or elsewhere). If you have for example built a
RackPack 4 as a channel strip, you can still pick up a signal from any stage.
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RackPack 4
Scope Of Delivery
• The RackPack 4 frame including all blind panels and the front panel (if modules are not
fitted already). Please note that all modules are shipped without the aluminum front
panel. You need it when you fit a module into the frame. Therefore make sure that you
handle the aluminum front panels with the same care and prudence as any other unit
surface. All screws holding front and rear blind and front panels are needed for the fitting
of modules. Two additional screws are shipped with every module.
• The AC power cord to feed the IEC-spec, 3-prong connector
• This manual
• 4-mm-Allen key required for the fitting of the module
• Please save the original packaging. In service cases the original packaging ensures a
safe shipping and handling. It is also useful for your own transports if you don’t use a
special housing or rack.
Recommendations On Module Configuration
Do not place preamp modules in the slot next to the internal power supply to avoid interference. If more than three preamp modules are required, we recommend to use the RackPack 8
frame, model 2710, with external power supply.
The tube module TwinTube is supplied with very high currents. Therefore, two TwinTube
modules are the maximum for one RackPack 4 frame.
Hook Up
Placement
Place the unit on a level and stable surface. The unit’s enclosure is EMC-safe and effectively
shielded against HF interference. Nonetheless, you should carefully consider where you place
the unit to avoid electrical disturbances. 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 vibrations, dust, heat, cold or moisture. It should also be kept away
from transformers, motors, power amplifiers and digital processors. Always ensure suff icient
air circulation by keeping a distance of 4-5 cm/2 inches to other units and to the sides of the
unit.
Rack Mounting
Be sure that both above and below the machine you maintain a distance of 4-5 cm/2 inches
in order to eliminate electromagnetic or high frequency interference from other equipment.
Moreover, this will ensure adequate air circulation to prevent overheating. Do NOT locate
other machines that produce excessive heat below the unit. The rear side of the machine
should be properly supported – especially when transport is involved.
RackPack 4
7
Hook Up
Air Circulation
Always ensure suff icient air circulation in any installation or setup: always keep a distance of
about 4-5 cm (1 U rack space or about 2 inches) to the next device. This concerns especially
the space above and below the device because louvers are cut into top and bottom panels for
optimal heat removal.
For free placement outside of a rack please always use a level and stable surface. Never place
it on a soft surface such as a blanket or a cushion etc.
If the RackPack 4 is mounted into a rack, do not place units below the RackPack 4 that produce
excessive heat.
Power Connection
Always make sure that the position of the voltage selector on the back of the RackPack 4
corresponds to the voltage of your local power supply (115 V position: 110-120 V, 230 V position: 220-240 V). In case of doubt please ask your dealer, a professional electrician or your
local power supplier.
Before you make or change any power or signal connections, turn off all connected devices
including the RackPack 4, and mind all security advices on pages 4 and 5.
Signal Conn ections
Before first connecting any other equipment – and in all other cases where you are connecting
cables with or from other sources – you should be sure to shut the unit and all machines to be
connected off. Otherwise you risk to damage the unit, connected gear or your ears.
On And Off
In switching on and off, you do not need to follow any particular sequence with connected
devices in the periphery of the RackPack 4. There is, however, the general rule for a chain of
devices in the audio processing to always turn on power amplifiers last and to turn them off
first. If specified sufficiently you can also switch the external power supply on and off through
a multiway connector or other main switches.
8
RackPack 4
Make sure that the voltage selector
setting reflects the correct local power
line voltage.The setting shown here
corresponds to operation
with 230V voltage.
POWER switch
The GND LIFT switch eliminates hum by separating the internal ground from the unit’s housing ground.
The switch is usually deactivated to retain the shielding of the housing (press to activate).
Rear Panel/Diagram
RackPack 4
9
Fitting Modules
Step 1
Please Note
Fitting and/or exchanging modules should only be done by qualified persons. In the light of
possible physical damage or injuries any manipulation is at your own risk. SPL is not liable
for any physical damage or injury. Before opening the device please read all security advices
(pages 4 and 5) and the “Hook Up” information (pages 7 and 8).
If the device is already in use and you want to expand it with further modules: Turn off the
device before you open it, disconnect any power and signal connections and wait at least five
minutes to make sure no residual current is left.
This instruction explains how to fit a module into the third slot. In this example, modules have
already been fitted into slot #1 and #2.
You will need the following tools: a Phillips screwdriver and a 4 mm Allen key (the Allen key is
part of the scope of delivery of the RackPack frame).
10
Step 1 (Top View)
Unscrew all 12 Phillips screws which fix the top panel with the Phillips screwdriver and remove
the top panel.
RackPack 4
Step 2 and 3
Step 2 (Rear View)
Unscrew the two Phillips screws holding the cover panel of slot #3 on the rear. Remove the
cover panel. As long as slot #3 is fitted with a module, the cover will not be needed anymore.
You may want to store it for future use.
Fitting Modules
Step 3 (Front View)
Unscrew the two Allen screws (socket screws) of slot #3 on the front of the RackPack frame
with the Allen key and remove the silver decoration panel as well as the blank black panel.
Keep the decoration panel and handle it with care, it is needed for the new module. You will
not need the black cover anymore as long as slot #3 is fitted with a module. You may want to
store it for future use.
RackPack 4
11
Fitting Modules
MODULE 1 MODULE 2
Step 4 and 5
4x
Broad
flat ribbon cable:
Module power
supply.
12
Decoration panel
2x
Step 4 (Top View)
Insert the new module into the slot from the front side of the RackPack 4. Fix the back of the
new module with the four Phillips screws to the rear of the frame (two of the Phillips screws
needed here came with the new module, two further screws remained from unscrewing the
rear cover panel, see Step 2).
Now tighten the two M4 socket screws. Put them through the holes on the top and bottom of
the aluminum panel first, then through the top and bottom holes of the module‘s front panel.
Fix the panel and the front of the module by tightening the M4 screws into the threads of the
housing.
Step 5
Finally plug the multi-pin connector of the ribbon cable into the corresponding slot of the new
module. Make sure that the connection is safe and tight by plugging the connector completely
into the socket.
IMPORTANT: Only pull or push the connector, never the cable! Otherwise you risk damaging
the cable. Subsequent damages can affect one or more modules!
RackPack 4
LINK Cable Installation
Narrow
flat ribbon cable:
Connecting two modules
with link function.
MODULE 1 MODULE 2
Fitting Modules
Link Cable Installation (Top View)
Two modules supporting the LINK feature (i. e. Transient Designer and DynaMaxx) can be
run as stereo pairs. In LINK mode, the master module controls the slave module and allows
a coherent processing of stereo programs over both channels. Besides coherent stereo operations the LINK mode offers further interesting applications, please refer to the individual
manuals of the modules for further details.
IMPORTANT: You have to specify the master or slave configuration of a module before you fit
a module into the RackPack 4 frame. The module manuals explain how to configure a module
for master or slave mode.
All modules supporting LINK mode have a 10-pin socket on the top of their circuit board. A flat
ribbon cable with two 10-pin connectors is part of the module’s scope of delivery.
Plug one of the two multi-pin connectors of the ribbon cable into either one of the multi-pin
sockets of the modules to be connected. Make sure that the connections are safe by plugging
the connector completely into the socket.
IMPORTANT: Only pull or push the connector, never the cable! Otherwise you risk to damage
the cable. Subsequent damages can affect one or more modules!
RackPack 4
13
Recommendations On Module Configuration
Do not place preamp modules in the slot next to the internal power supply to avoid interference. If more than three preamp modules are required, we recommend to use the RackPack 8
frame, model 2710, with external power supply.
The tube module TwinTube is supplied with very high currents. Therefore, two TwinTube
modules are the maximum for one RackPack 4 frame.
Power Supply
250 V Security Mode
The TwinTube module requires 250 V power supply. This current is automatically activated
only when a TwinTube module is present. Otherwise this high current is switched off in order
to reduce power supply load and risk potentials.
The power supply module is equipped with two LEDs indicating the 250 v Security Mode
status. The LEDs are also visible through the louvers of the top panel.
• Green LED illuminates: 250 V current activated
• Rote LED illuminates: Error – 250 V current deactivated though tube module is present
• No LED illuminates: 250 V current not activated (no tube module present)
Power Supply
The transformer is dimensioned lavishly (46 VA) to supply all modules sufficiently an any
case.
We use exceptionally low noise voltage regulators, extremely fast diodes and very high
capacities to ensure stable and fast power supply.
48 V phantom power supply is derived with a dedicated voltage regulator for high precision
and stability.
A discrete circuitry supplies constant 250 V current for the tube modules to compensate for
any possible influences from the line voltage. The tube current slowly runs up in a warm-up
mode of about 10 seconds to protect transformer and tubes.
Measurements And Weight
Height x Width x Depth 256 x 132 x 296 mm (housing only)
263 x 149 x 235 mm (including handle, feet, and sockets)
Weight (without modules): 4,95 kg/ ca. 10,91 lbs
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RackPack 4
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RackPack 4
15
‹ Manual RackPack 4
Model 1040
RackPack 4
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