CONTENTS
f.
CONGRATULATIONS!
INTRODUCTION 3
Block Diagram 5
PRECAUTIONS
INSTALLATION 7
AC Mains Supply 7
Audio Connections 8
Mic Inputs 8
Line Inputs 9
Insertion Points 9
Direct Output 10
Main Stereo Output 10
Monitor Outputs 10
Aux Outputs 11
Stereo 2T Returns 11
Effects Return 11
Headphone Outputs 12
Meter Calibration 12
Digital Modules 12
OPERATION 13
Input Selection 13
Input Gain Control 13
Line Input 13
Microphone Input 13
2
Phase Reverse 14
High Pass Filter 14
30dB Pad 14
Equalisation 14
Insertion Points 15
6
Aux Sends 15
Direct Output 15
Track Level Control 15
Pan Control 15
Mute Switch 16
PFL Switch 16
Channel Fader 16
Drive and Peak LEDs 16
Stereo Mix 16
Aux Masters 16
Effects Return 17
Monitor and 'phones Level 17
PFL Balance Level 17
2-Track Returns 17
Loudspeaker Mute 18
Metering 18
Digital Output Option 18
Wordclock Input 18
A Final Word! 19
SERVICE 20
SPECIFICATIONS 21
1
~
CONGRA TULA TIONS!
Congratulations on you purchase of a TL Audio M 1 Tubetracker Mixer, the perfect
solution for the modem day studio. Anyone who has used or heard our outboard
equipment, will be familiar with its ability to create a warm, smooth, and clean sound
that can inject wonderful 'feel' into your recordings.
Our acclaimed VTC and M4 consoles have also now been accepted as a great
sounding must have in the professional recording environment, with many high profile
users. The Ml offers you the TL Audio quality, in a desk that is modular, yet more
compact and affordable than the VTC and M4 - and still offers you the same great
sound.
The M 1 Tubetracker is ideal for the home and project studio as well as broadcast and
recording applications where space is limited.
The Ml offers you quality valve mic preamps on each channel, 3 band musical EQ
with sweepable mid on each channel, 2 auxiliary sends per channel as well as effects
returns and alternate monitoring options!
It has been designed to maximise today's recording techniques, with the addition of an
optional ADA T interface for easy digital connection to your recording device and
software. It makes the perfect front end to any digital recording set up, taking away
that 'clinical, sterile' sound whilst adding warmth and depth to your recordingsgiving you the sound that you have been longing for.
The M I Tubetracker is compact in size and features all its connectors on the back of
the top panel for easy connectivity and quick cable changes!
Available in 8 and 12 channel options the Ml combines that classic valve sound with
modern functionality.
2
INTRODUCTION
The T L Audio Ml Tube Console combines classic valve techniques with low noise
solid state circuitry to construct a mixing console offering high specification signal
paths with the unique valve sound quality. 8 or 12 input channels are provided, all with
mic and line inputs, switchable 48V phantom power, three band EQ, balanced
insertion send and return, 2 Aux sends, Pan and lOOmm Fader. Each channel also
features a balanced Direct Output, which is pre EQ and independent of the channel
fader.
Mixing is via balanced busses to valve mix amplifiers. The stereo output is controlled
by a stereo lOOmm fader, and monitored by illuminated moving coil VU meters. A
stereo effects return, two 2-track returns and independent headphone output complete
the monitoring facilities.
The M 1 Tube Console is an ideal compliment to a digital audio workstation, but may
also be used for direct to stereo recording, as outboard analogue EQ during mixdown,
and as a complete studio, stage or PA mixer. The console is table-top mounting and
supplied with a free standing power supply. There are no fans in either the power
supply or console.
The block diagram of the M I Tube Console is shown in fig. 1. A discrete solid state,
electronically balanced input amplifier is used, to achieve state of the art performance
with very low noise, low distortion and wide bandwidth. The mic input is via an XLR
socket and is suitable for low impedance (150-600 ohm) microphones, with a gain
control range of + 16 to +60dB plus a 30dB pad. A front panel switch selects 48V
phantom power. The line input has an effective overall gain range of -20 to +20dB,
allowing the valve stages to be fully driven from line level signals in the range -20 to
+20dBu. The input stage is directly coupled to a second stage triode valve amplifier.
Increasing the gain at the input stage allows the unique overdriven valve sound to be
gradually introduced, as indicated by the "Drive" and "Peak" LEDs. Phase reverse and
90Hz high pass filter switches complete the input section.
A balanced insertion point is provided enabling the connection of external equipment
(a compressor, for example) into the channel. The insert send socket may also be used
as an independent output. The Direct Output from the channel is pre-fade and
balanced. It is taken after the valve stage, insertion point and EQ, but is unaffected by
the channel fader.
The equaliser section provides shelving LF and HF filters and swept frequency mid
peaking filter. The EQ stages may be bypassed for easy A-B comparison.
Mixing to the stereo bus is via 100mm linear faders with rotary pan control. PFL and
channel MUTE switches are also provided. Two Aux sends are available; Aux 1 is
switchab1e pre or post fade, with Aux 2 permanently post fade. The stereo return can
also send to Aux 1. The busses are balanced, with hybrid solid state / triode valve mix
3
amplifiers on the stereo buss and solid state mix amplifiers on the Aux and PFL
busses. .
The monitoring outputs normally follow the stereo output, but may be switched to the
2 track return inputs, for example to check workstation outputs. Any PFL signal
automatically over-rides the monitor output. The PFL level relative to the stereo level
may be adjusted, and the overall monitor level is controlled by a high quality matched
pot with 29mm diameter knob.
Dual moving coil VU meters follow the monitor outputs. The meters are factory set for
OdB indication = +4dBu, but may be recalibrated using presets accessible from the
front panel.
The Aux outputs are controlled by master level controls, and the stereo effects return
provides a line level input, with gain and balance controls. All are equipped with PFL
switches.
Optional digital modules are available, providing multiples of 8 inputs and outputs for
the channel sections, plus the stereo main output.
Please read this manual fully before installing or operating the Ml Tube Console.
4
PRECAUTIONS
As with all electrical equipment, care must be taken to ensure reliable, safe operation
of your mixer. The following points should always be observed:
- All mains wiring should be installed and checked by a qualified electrician,
- The mixing console is heavy, and may require more than one person to
lift and place in position,
- Ensure the correct operating voltage is selected on the power supply
before connecting to the mains supply,
- Connect the power supply to the mixer before switching on,
- Never operate the mixer or power supply with any cover removed,
- Do not expose to rain or moisture, as this may present an electric
shock hazard.
- Replace the fuses with the correct type and rating only,
- Refer any service requirement to qualified personnel.
Warning: This equipment must be earthed.
Caution: Ensure adequate ventilation of the power supply and mixer.
Failure to observe these precautions may invalidate your warranty.
6
AC Mains Supply.
The mixer should be placed on a solid, flat surface. Adequate ventilation must be
provided, with free space behind the cooling slots in the rear panel and immediately
above the ventilation slots along the top of the front panel. Care must be taken to
provide appropriate support for the mixer and the cables which will be connected to it.
Do not locate the mixer near a source of heat, or where it may be subjected to
interference from other electrical or radio frequency generating equipment (e.g. mobile
telephones).
Brown: Live.
Blue:
Neutral.
Green/Yellow: Earth (Ground).
All mains wiring must be performed by a qualified electrician with all power switched
off, and the earth connection must be used.
The power supply generates a certain amount of heat during use, which must be
allowed to dissipate from the ventilation slots in the sides of the unit. Never cover the
power supply or locate it near a source of heat, for example a radiator or power
amplifier.
7
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