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CONTENTS
DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY ........................................................................ 4
THANKS ............................................................................................................... 5
INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................... 5
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS ................................................................ 6
INSTRUCTIONS DE SECURITE IMPORTANTES ...................................................7
Installing Your MX36: Unpacking ....................................................................... 8
Additional Symbols and Warnings ............................................................................................ 8
Installing Your MX36: Electrical Considerations ............................................... 9
Installing Your MX36: Mechanical Considerations ........................................... 10
Connecting To Your MX36: Analogue Line Inputs and Outputs ......................... 11
Operating Your MX36: Initial Set-up and Switching On .................................... 12
Switching On… ......................................................................................................................... 12
Operating Your MX36: The Basics ..................................................................... 13
Outside Your MX36: Front Panel Controls and Indicators ................................ 14
Local Mic / Stereo Line Inputs ................................................................................................ 14
Input / Backup Source Select ................................................................................................. 16
Console Select ......................................................................................................................... 17
Line Monitoring ....................................................................................................................... 18
Outside Your MX36: Rear Panel Connections ................................................... 20
Inside Your MX36: Configurations and Routing ................................................ 21
Overview of Audio Routing ...................................................................................................... 21
Operating Your MX36: Working with Failover and Redundancy ....................... 23
Operating Your MX36: With and/or Without Redundancy ................................ 24
Example Setup ........................................................................................................................ 24
Conditions That Trigger a Source Change in Redundancy Mode ........................................... 25
Working without Redundancy ................................................................................................. 25
Operating Your MX36: Increase Console Capacity with Cascade Mode ........... 26
Operating Your MX36: Increase Channel Capacity with Parallel Mode ........... 27
Looking After Your MX36: Maintenance .......................................................... 28
Looking After Your MX36: Warranty ................................................................ 28
Performance Of Your MX36: Specifications ...................................................... 29
Appendix I: Microphone and Stereo Line Input DSP Filter Responses ............ 30
Appendix II: Upgrading Firmware ..................................................................... 31
Communications Set-up ......................................................................................................... 31
Download the Files ................................................................................................................. 31
Connect To The Unit ................................................................................................................ 32
Choose What To Load .............................................................................................................. 32
Start The Update! .................................................................................................................... 33
What If It All Goes Wrong… ..................................................................................................... 33
Appendix III: Dante I-O Channels Mapping ...................................................... 34
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DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
We, the manufacturer:
XTA Electronics Limited,
The Design House
Vale Business Park
Worcester Road
Stourport on Severn
Worcestershire
England
DY13 9BZ
acknowledge our responsibility that the following products:
Kind of equipment: Digital Signal Processing Apparatus
Commodity Code: 85437006
Type Designation: MX36
and all variants of this model
are manufactured:
in accordance with EMC Directive 2004/108/EC,
in compliance with the following norm(s) or document(s):
Technical Regulations: EN55103-1:1996, EN55103-2:1996
and
in accordance with the Low Voltage Directive 2006/95/EC,
in compliance with the following norm(s) or document(s):
Technical Regulations: EN/IEC60065:2002 7
th
Edition
Signed: ……………………………………………………………………
Name: Alex Cooper
Position: Research and Development Manager
Date: June 2019
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THANKS
Thank you for choosing an MX36 console switcher for your application.
Please spend a little time reading through this manual, so that you obtain the best possible
performance from the unit and become familiar with its operating requirements.
All XTA products are carefully designed and engineered for cutting-edge performance and
world-class reliability. If you would like further information about this or any other XTA
product, please contact us.
We wish you many years of service from this product and look forward to hearing from you in
the near future.
INTRODUCTION
The MX36 has been designed to offer a uniquely simple solution to the long-standing problem
of routing of multiple mixing consoles outputs to a speaker system / system processor.
Handling 36 inputs in 2U across analogue, AES and Dante networks, these are arranged in
sets of four (to typically support Left-Right-Front Fill and Sub feeds from an individual
console). All AES inputs have SRC. There is one set of four outputs, available simultaneously
across analogue, AES and Dante networks with Word Clock output sync available on AES.
All switching takes place in the digital domain with soft cross-fades primarily to switch up to
three consoles, each with up to three levels of redundancy. The primary and secondary
sources may be selected depending on the availability of support on the console (so AES or
Dante, or even just analogue) and the MX36 will automatically select the secondary source
should the primary fail.
If failover with redundancy is not required, then the MX36 can handle up to 9 consoles
(accommodating 3 each on analogue, AES and Dante feeds).
In addition to the quad channel sets for the consoles, there is a fully featured high quality
mono mic preamp for “Voice of God” announcements. This has selectable routing, as well as
clarity filtering in DSP, and switchable 48v phantom power.
There is also a stereo line input, again with “sweetening” filtering, selectable routing, and
fully balanced rear inputs, plus an unbalanced 3.5mm jack front panel input.
As important as the extensive switching and automatic routing capabilities, the MX36 also has
full headphone monitoring of EVERY line individually with extended metering.
Dante allows for units to operate in either cascade or parallel modes to extend the input set
sizes or number of consoles that may be simultaneously switched,
All of this is fully user configurable via the front panel — no need to connect a computer or
depend on an app with a wireless connection.
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IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
CAUTION: RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK.
DO NOT OPEN
The lightning flash with arrowhead
symbol within an equilateral triangle is
intended to alert the user to the presence
0f uninsulated “dangerous voltage”
within the product’s enclosure that may
be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a
risk of electric shock to persons.
The exclamation mark within an
equilateral triangle is intended to alert
the user of important operating and
maintenance (servicing) instructions in
the literature accompanying the
appliance.
WARNING: Apparatus with CLASS I construction shall be connected to a MAINS socket outlet with a protective
earthing connection.
WARNING: To prevent injury, this apparatus must be securely attached to the rack in accordance with the
installation instructions.
1. Read these instructions.
2. Keep these instructions.
3. Heed all warnings.
4. Follow all instructions.
5. Do not use this apparatus near water.
6. Clean only with a dry cloth.
7. Do not block any ventilation openings, install in
accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
8. Do not install near any heat sources, such as
radiators, heat registers, stoves or other apparatus
(including amplifiers) that produce heat.
9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or
grounding-type plug. A polarized 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.
10. Protect the power cord from being walked on or
pinched particularly at plugs, convenience
receptacles and the point where they exit from the
apparatus.
11. Only use attachments/accessories specified by the
manufacturer.
12. Use only with the cart, 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 a tip over.
13. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or
when unused for a long period of time.
14. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
Servicing is required when the apparatus has been
damaged in any way, such as if the power-supply cord or
plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have
fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been
exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally,
or has been dropped. This equipment contains a nonuser replaceable lithium battery for memory retention.
Should this battery fail and user settings be lost, do not
attempt to replace the battery yourself but return the
equipment to an authorised service centre.
15. Do not expose this equipment to dripping or
splashing and ensure that no objects filled with liquids,
such as vases, are placed on the equipment.
16. To completely disconnect this equipment from the
AC mains, disconnect the power cord from the mains
circuit breaker.
17. This unit is fitted with a 3-wire power cord. For
safety reasons, THE EARTH LEAD SHOULD NOT BE
DISCONNECTED IN ANY CIRCUMSTANCE.
18. Correct disposal of this product: This symbol
indicates that this product must not be disposed of with
household waste, according to the WEEE Directive
(2012/19/EU) and your national law. This product should
be taken to a collection center licensed for the recycling
of waste electrical and electronic equipment (EEE). The
mishandling of this type of waste could have a possible
negative impact on the environment and human health
due to potentially hazardous substances that are
generally associated with EEE. At the same time, your
cooperation in the correct disposal of this product will
contribute to the efficient use of natural resources. For
more information about where you can take your waste
equipment for recycling, please contact your local city
office, or your household waste collection service.
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INSTRUCTIONS DE SECURITE IMPORTANTES
ATTENTION: RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE.
NE PAS OUVRIR
Le symbole représentant un éclair fléché
dans un triangle
d’alerter l’utilisateur de la pr
d’une “tension dangeruese” non isol
l’intérieur du boitier, pouvant être d’une
force suffisante pour constituer un risqué
d’
électrocution.
ATTENTION: Appareils de construction de CLASSE I doit être raccordé au réseau électrique via une prise de courant
reliée à la terre.
ATTENTION: Pour éviter toute blessure, cet appareil doit être solidement fixé à la torture, conformément aux
instructions d'installation.
1. Lisez ces consignes.
2. Conservez ces consignes.
3. Respectez tous les avertissements.
4. Respectez toutes les consignes d’utilisation.
5. N’utilisez jamais l’appareil à proximité d’un liquide.
6. Nettoyez l’appareil avec un chiff on sec.
7. Veillez à ne pas empêcher la bonne ventilation de l’appareil
via ses ouïes de ventilation. Respectez les consignes du fabricant
concernant l’installation de l’appareil.
8. Ne placez pas l’appareil à proximité d’une source de chaleur
telle qu’un chauff age, une cuisinière ou tout appareil dégageant
de la chaleur (y compris un ampli de puissance).
9. Ne supprimez jamais la sécurité des prises bipolaires ou des
prises terre. Les prises bipolaires possèdent deux contacts de
largeur diff érente. Le plus large est le contact de sécurité. Les
prises terre possèdent deux contacts plus une mise à la terre
servant de sécurité. Si la prise du bloc d’alimentation ou du
cordon d’ali-mentation fourni ne correspond pas à celles de
votre installation électrique, faites appel à un électricien pour eff
ectuer le changement de prise.
10. Installez le cordon d’alimentation de telle façon que
personne ne puisse marcher dessus et qu’il soit protégé
d’arêtes coupantes. Assurez-vous que le cordon d’alimentation
est suffisamment protégé, notamment au niveau de sa prise
électrique et de l’endroit où il est relié à l’appareil; cela est
également valable pour une éventuelle rallonge électrique.
11. Utilisez exclusivement des accessoires et des appareils
supplémentaires recommandés par le fabricant.
présentoirs, des pieds et des surfaces de travail recommandés
par le fabricant ou livrés avec le produit. Déplacez
précautionneusement tout chariot ou diable chargé pour éviter
d’éventuelles blessures en cas de chute.
13. Débranchez l’appareil de la tension secteur en cas d’orage
ou si l’appareil reste inutilisé pendant une longue période de
temps.
12. Utilisez exclusivement des chariots, des diables, des
équilatéral a pour but
ésence
ée à
Le point d’exclamation dans un triangle
équilatéral a pour but d’alerter
l’untilisateur de la pr
d’instructions importantes concernant le
fonctionnement et la maintenance, dans
la documentation qui accompagne
l’appariel.
14. Les travaux d’entretien de l’appareil doivent être eff ectués
uniquement par du personnel qualifié. Aucun entretien n’est
nécessaire sauf si l’appareil est endommagé de quelque façon
que ce soit (dommages sur le cordon d’alimentation ou la prise
par exemple), si un liquide ou un objet a pénétré à l’intérieur du
châssis, si l’appareil a été exposé à la pluie ou à l’humidité, s’il
ne fonctionne pas correctement ou à la suite d’une chute. Pour
la mémorisation des paramètres, cet appareil contient une pile
au lithium non remplaçable par l’utilisateur. En cas de
défaillance de la pile et perte des réglages, n’essayer pas de
remplacer la pile par vous-même. Retourner votre appareil vers
une station technique habilité.
15. N'exposez pas cet équipement au fait de tomber goutte à
goutte ou au fait d'éclabousser et garantissez qu'aucun objet
rempli des liquides, comme les vases, n'est placé sur
l'équipement.
16. Pour complètement débrancher cet équipement de la
conduite principale de courant alternatif, débranchez la corde de
pouvoir du disjoncteur de conduite principale.
17. Cette unité est correspondue avec une corde de pouvoir de 3
fils. Pour les raisons de sécurité, L'AVANCE DE TERRE NE
DEVRAIT ÊTRE DÉBRANCHÉE DANS AUCUNE CIRCONSTANCE.
18. Mise au rebut appropriée de ce produit: Ce symbole
indique qu’en accord avec la directive DEEE (2012/19/EU) et les
lois en vigueur dans votre pays, ce produit ne doit pas être jeté
avec les déchets ménagers. Ce produit doit être déposé dans un
point de collecte agréé pour le recyclage des déchets
d’équipements électriques et électroniques (EEE). Une mauvaise
manipulation de ce type de déchets pourrait avoir un impact
négatif sur l’environnement et la santé à cause des substances
potentiellement dangereuses généralement associées à ces
équipements. n même temps, votre coopération dans la mise au
rebut de ce produit contribuera à l’utilisation efficace des
ressources naturelles. Pour plus d’informations sur ’endroit où
vous pouvez déposer vos déchets d’équipements pour le
recyclage, veuillez contacter votre mairie ou votre centre local
de collecte des déchets.
ésence
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Installing Your MX36: Unpacking
After unpacking the unit, please check it carefully for any damage. If any is found,
immediately notify the carrier concerned - you, the consignee, must instigate any claim.
Please retain all packaging in case of future re-shipment.
The Design House
Vale Business Park
Worceste r Road
Stourport on Severn
Worcs.
England
Tel +44 (0) 1299 879977
Fax +44( 0) 1299 879 9969
THIS WAY UP
Additional Symbols and Warnings
只有在高海拔地区使用不超过2000米。
Meaning of the symbol: Evaluation for apparatus only based on altitude not exceeding 2000m,
therefore it is the only operating condition applied for the equipment. There may be some potential
safety hazard if the equipment is used at altitude above 2000m.
只适合于非热带气候地区使用
Meaning of the symbol: Evaluation for the apparatus only based on temperate climate condition,
therefore it is the only operating condition applied for the equipment. There may be some potential
safety hazard if the equipment is used in tropical climate region,
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Installing Your MX36: Electrical Considerations
The MX36 has been manufactured to comply with your local power supply requirements, but
before connecting the unit to the supply, ensure that the voltage (printed on the rear panel) is
correct.
The MX36 is fitted with a pair of universal power supplies that operate in a dual redundant
configuration — should either one fail or become disconnected, the other supply is fully
capable of operating the unit indefinitely.
Make sure power outlets conform to the power requirements listed on the back of the unit.
Damage caused by connecting to improper AC voltage is not covered by the warranty.
SAFETY WARNING
Where a MAINS plug or appliance coupler is used as the disconnect device, it should remain
readily operable.
For safety reasons,
THE EARTH LEAD SHOULD NOT BE DISCONNECTED IN ANY CIRCUMSTANCE.
If ground loops are encountered consult the section on connecting your unit on page 11.
The wiring colours are:
230V AREAS: EARTH = GREEN AND YELLOW
NEUTRAL = BLUE
LIVE = BROWN
DO NOT USE THE UNIT IF THE ELECTRICAL POWER CORD IS FRAYED OR BROKEN. The
power supply cords should be routed so that they are not likely to be walked on or pinched by
items placed upon or against them, paying particular attention to cords and plugs and the
point where they exit from the appliance.
ALWAYS OPERATE THE UNIT WITH THE AC GROUND WIRE CONNECTED TO THE ELECTRICAL
SYSTEM GROUND. Precautions should be taken so that the means of grounding of a piece of
equipment is not defeated.
DO NOT REMOVE THE LID. Removing the lid will expose you to potentially dangerous
voltages. There are no user serviceable parts inside.
ESD strikes to the unit’s front panel that are in excess of 4000 volts may cause disturbance to
the status LEDs on the unit. This will not affect audio performance and will be corrected on
the next power up cycle.
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Installing Your MX36: Mechanical Considerations
To ensure that this equipment performs to specification, it should be mounted in a suitable
rack or enclosure as described below. Like all sensitive signal processing equipment, it
should be kept away from other equipment which is sensitive to magnetic fields. Also, this
unit may suffer a substantial reduction in performance if it is subjected to or mounted close
to equipment which radiates high RF fields.
Warning: To prevent injury, this apparatus must be securely attached to the rack in
accordance with the installation instructions
When mounting in a rack or enclosure:
- Ensure that there is adequate ventilation.
- Make sure that the rack unit has a separate earth connection (technical earth).
- Please also see the notes regarding maintenance on page 28.
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Connecting To Your MX36: Analogue Line Inputs and Outputs
The inputs are made via 3-pin XLR connectors, which are electronically balanced and should
be connected via a high-grade twin core screened cable, as follows:
PIN1: Screen (see note below)
PIN2: Hot (signal +)
PIN3: Cold (signal -)
The unit is designed to operate with fully balanced equipment and ground loops or loss of
performance may be experienced if connected to unbalanced sources. If it is unavoidable
however, the following wiring should be used. The cable should still be twin core plus screen.
PIN1: Screen - connected to the chassis of the unbalanced equipment - or left disconnected
at the unbalanced end.
PIN2: Hot (signal +)
PIN3: Cold (ground 0V)
NOTE: This unit is wired to the latest industry recommendations. PIN1 is connected directly
to the chassis/mains earth. If ground loops (mains hum) are encountered remove the screen
connection from the other end of the cable and leave it open circuit. If problems persist,
consult your dealer/supplier.
DO NOT TAMPER WITH OR ALTER ANY GROUND (EARTH) CONNECTIONS INSIDE THE UNIT.
Additionally, there is a front panel unbalanced stereo 3.5mm jack socket for connection to a
line source (such as a laptop/tablet/mobile phone).
1: Screen
2: Left
3: Right
Outputs are also made via 3-pin XLR connectors wired as follows:
PIN1: Screen (see note above)
PIN2: Hot (signal +)
PIN3: Cold (signal -)
Note that the rear panel outputs are electronically balanced and so are not galvanically
(electrically) isolated. Front panel outputs are transformer balanced and so are isolated.
The headphone socket (6.4mm) is stereo, but audio is always mono — do NOT use a mono jack
as the output is balanced:
1: Screen
2: Left (mono)
3: Right (mono)
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Operating Your MX36: Initial Set-up and Switching On
Please read all documentation before operating your unit and retain all documentation for
future reference.
Do not spill water or other liquids into or on the unit and do not operate your unit while
standing in liquid.
Do not ventilation outlets or operate the unit in an environment that could impede the free
flow of air around the unit.
If your unit is used in an extremely dusty or smoky environment, it should be cleaned of any
collected debris at regular intervals. Please also see the notes regarding maintenance on
page 28.
Switching On…
The previous settings of all controls will be recalled, and the audio will fade up after initial
boot-up. Note that if the outputs are being fed from a Dante source, this will take longer to
reconnect than analogue and AES sources and may start suddenly (after the output fade).
A note about the analogue controls
As these are normal potentiometers and not rotary encoders, their physical position
determines their setting. As it’s entirely possible they may have been adjusted when the unit
is powered down, be aware that their new position will be used when next powered up, so
please check the gains and headphones level before engaging!
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Operating Your MX36: The Basics
1) Connect a source of up to four channels to inputs A or B or C on the rear — any format
(analogue, AES or Dante via the Network Audio Ethernet ports). In the case of Dante
inputs, make sure they are correctly subscribed from the upstream device. A list of
all the Dante channel names is in Appendix III on page 34.
L-R-FF-SUB L/R FF/SUB LEFT RIGHT F.FILL SUB
ANALOGUEAESNETWORK AUDIO
2) For the chosen input sets, A or B or C, make sure the correct input source has been
selected in the PRIMARY Input Source section on the front panel. Make sure the
BACKUP Source Selection is set to OFF (if the button is not illuminated, that is
because the PRIMARY source has been set to Analogue — this is by design).
INPUT SOU RCE
PRIMA RY
3) If the Input Source Select button starts to flash, the chosen digital source is not
connected correctly — see page 25 for more information.
4) Connect up to four outputs of any format (Analogue, AES or Dante) to the downstream
device (amplifiers or system processor). In the case of a Dante connection, ensure
that the channels are correctly subscribed through Dante Controller.
5) If required, plug in headphones and use the Line Monitoring section to check the
integrity of the connected sources by sequencing through the input sets’ sources and
individual channels — the meter shows the input level.
6) Press the Console Select sections A or B or C buttons to switch the source channels
to the outputs. The selections are not mutually exclusive so more than one can be
active.
And that’s it! You should now be able to switch between different sets of inputs through to the
main outputs!
BACKUP
DANTE
ANALOG
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Outside Your MX36: Front Panel Controls and Indicators
Local Mic / Stereo Line Inputs
1: Microphone Input: Plug in a balanced mic to use for announcements — this socket is
mirrored on the rear panel (both sockets are connected in parallel).
2: Microphone Gain: The gain range has been designed to cater for passive, active and
wireless mic systems. The 12 o’clock position is 0dB gain and should be used when
connected to the output of a wireless microphone receiver. Turn the control clockwise from
12 o’clock to increase the gain for use with passive microphones. Turn the control anticlockwise from 12 o’clock to adapt the input to line levels.
3: Microphone Send to Outputs Selects: Use the up and down buttons to cycle through preset
routings to the main outputs, as shown on the LED column.
4: 48V phantom power: Press and HOLD to enable phantom power on both front and rear
mic XLR sockets.
5: Microphone Filter: Enable a high pass filter and sweetening EQ for the mic input. This
effect can be previewed via the listen function. The filter’s response is shown in Appendix I on
page 30.
6: Microphone Listen: Press to hear the microphone signal through the headphones. Set the
gain accurately by using the meter in Line Monitor section. Note that this will interrupt the
current line signal being monitored. The button will flash to show this is active.
7: Microphone ON: Toggle the Microphone signal to the outputs as selected by 3.
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8: Stereo Line Input: This unbalanced stereo input is mirrored on the rear panel with a pair
of fully balanced XLR inputs. Use to connect a laptop or mobile sourced sound source for
background music feeds, or even another stereo console.
9: Stereo Line Level: The gain range has been designed to act like a “fader” so this can be
used for accurate control of background music level. The minimum position is “OFF” and the
12 o’clock position is 0dB.
10: Stereo Line Send to Outs Selection: 1+2: Toggle whether the stereo input will be sent to
main outputs 1+2 when the ON button is enabled. 3+4 / Mono to 3+4: These two buttons are
mutually exclusive and will send either a stereo feed to main outputs 3+4, or a mono sum of
the stereo signal to 3+4.
11: Stereo Line Filter: Enable a high pass filter to prevent excessive LF from background
music sources. This effect can be previewed via the listen function. The filter’s response is
shown in Appendix I on page 30.
12: Stereo Line Listen: Press to hear a mono mix of the stereo line feed through the
headphones. Set the gain accurately by using the meter in Line Monitor section. Note that
this will interrupt the current line signal being monitored. The button will flash to show this
is active.
13: Stereo Line ON: Toggle the Stereo Line signal to the outputs as selected by buttons 5.
14: Locked/Safe LED: If the padlock button is active, the corresponding locked/safe LEDs
show which sections cannot be adjusted. Only the LISTEN buttons remain operative when the
panel is locked.
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Input / Backup Source Select
1: Primary Input Source Selections: Choose Analogue, AES or Dante for the main source for
each input set (A/B/C). Works in conjunction with 2.
2: Backup Source Selection: Choose a backup source which will be automatically routed to
the particular set’s outputs (pre-console selects) should the primary source fail. There is an
OFF state if redundancy/failover operation is not required on this set.
Not available if primary source is analogue.
3: Locked/Safe LED: If the padlock button is active, the corresponding locked/safe LEDs
show which sections cannot be adjusted. All Line Monitoring functions always remain
accessible, as do the Listen functions in the MIC / Line section.
4: Meter Outs Scaling: When the METER OUT button is enabled, the middle four columns of
LEDs show real time output levels for the main outputs as designated by these labels.
Pressing any source select button will cancel this and switch back to show input source
selections.
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Console Select
1: Console Select: The Main Event! These three switches route the output of each quad
channel set (depending on the Primary/Backup source settings for each set) to the main
outputs. They may be mixed (so more than one may be active) and there is a brief
programmed fade on enable/disable.
2: Lock/Safe: Press and HOLD to disable adjustment on all panel sections with the red
locked/safe LEDs. All Line Monitoring functions always remain accessible, as do the Listen
functions in the MIC / Line section.
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Line Monitoring
1: Source Select: Choose to monitor the A, B or C input sets, or the final outputs (monitor
point in green in diagram below) and then…
2: Type Select: …chosen source type (Dante, AES, Analogue) for the set. When “OUTS” is
selected, source type is disabled as all three types are fed simultaneously. There is an “OFF”
state for this selection which selects monitoring from the “Pre Console Select” points in red
in the signal path as below:
This point allows monitoring of the actual choice of Primary and Failover selections and
verification that the failover is working as expected (by deliberately disconnecting/inducing a
failover situation and listening to the swap to the backup source).
3: Channel Select:…within the chose A/B/C (or outputs), the channel from the set.
4: Headroom Meter: This meter shows the level of the currently selected channel.
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5: Headphone Level Control: The headphone output is mono and controlled by this rotary.
6: Headphones Socket: This is a stereo socket but headphone output is mono — please use a
stereo jack to ensure the output is not shorted to ground.
7: Meter Outs: This temporarily swaps the centre columns of LEDs in the Input/Backup
Source Select section to show the levels on the four main outputs, using the scaling shown in
the boxed legend. The blue switch LEDs will extinguish to show that this mode is active.
Pressing any source/backup select button or the Meter Outs button again will cancel this.
8: PSU OK LEDs: Confirmation of the internal supplies being connected and functioning is
shown. If the LED is extinguished, the supply has not been connected. If the LED is flashing
then the supply has been connected but is now not functioning or has become disconnected.
9: External Word Clock Out Lock LED: If this is illuminated then a valid word clock signal is
present on the BNC connector and this is being used to sync the AES outputs ONLY (AES
inputs all have independent sample rate converters). If this is not illuminated, then no valid
WCLK has been present since power up. If it is flashing, then previously valid WCLK has been
lost.
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Outside Your MX36: Rear Panel Connections
1: Mains Inlets: The IEC mains inlets are unswitched, and feed two independent power
supplies operating in redundancy mode. Either power supply is capable of powering the
entire unit indefinitely, but we recommend using both, connected to different mains circuits in
mission-critical situations!
2: Main AES Outputs: These two XLRs carry the four main output channels as two AES pairs
formatted as 1+2 and 3+4.
3: AES Outputs Wordclock Sync Input: Connect an external wordclock source to synchronise
the AES outputs. Front panel LED shows when valid clock is present and in use.
3: A/B/C AES Inputs: Digital audio inputs arranged in three groups of two pairs each for A, B
and C sets; 1+2, 3+4. Independent sample rate conversion on every input socket.
4: Main analogue output XLR sockets: These carry the four main output channels - the sum
of the A-B-C selectors.
5: Microphone Input: Plug in a balanced mic to use for announcements — this socket is
mirrored on the front panel (both sockets are connected in parallel).
6: Stereo Line Input: This pair of XLRs is a balanced stereo input is mirrored on the front
panel with an unbalanced 3.5mm stereo jack (unbalanced) run in parallel. Use to connect a
laptop or mobile sound source for background music feeds, or even another analogue stereo
console.
7: A/B/C Analogue Inputs: Balanced inputs arranged in three groups of four each for A, B
and C sets.
8: Dante Primary and Secondary Ports: Networked audio connections — 1: Primary, 2:
Secondary. See page 34 for details of Dante I-O channel mapping.
9: Control Ethernet Port: Connection to this port is currently limited to firmware updates
only.
11: GPIO Port: For future expansion.
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Inside Your MX36: Configurations and Routing
Overview of Audio Routing
The MX36 offers three sets four inputs, each of which can be analogue, AES or Dante audio.
L-R-FF-SUB L/R FF/SUB LEFT RIGHT F.FILL SUB
ANALOGUEAESNETWORK AUDIO
These are designated as sets A, B and C, and each set can switch automatically between
either the analogue, AES or Dante inputs, depending on the settings of the front panel source
selection.
INPUT SOU RCE
PRIMA RY
The “output” of each of the sets is controlled by the set of three console switching selectors
on the front panel which will then route these onto the main four-channel output bus.
BACKUP
DANTE
ANALOG
The output bus is available simultaneously as four analogue outputs, a pair of two channel
AES outputs, and four transmitter channels on the Dante network.
1-2-3-4 1- 2 3-4 -1- -2- - 3- -4-
ANALOGUEAES DIGITALNETWORK A U D IO
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Additionally, there is a stereo line input (unbalanced front 3.5mm stereo jack in parallel with
balanced rear panel XLRs) which can be routed to either outputs 1+2, 3+4 or both pairs. It can
also be fed in mono to outputs 3+4.
LOCAL STEREO LINE INPUT
(parallel un balanc ed front, balan ced rear)
0
+20
SEND TO
OUTS 1+2
MONO
TO 3+ 4
SEND TO
OUTS 3+4
FI LTER
STER EO LI NE
LEVEL
8
ON LI STEN
Finally, a high quality microphone preamp is provided with flexible routing to a variety of
output combinations. There are front and rear fully balanced connections, with 48V phantom
power.
LOCAL MICROPHONE INPU
(parallel front/rear)
MIC GAIN
0
-50 +50
ON LI STEN
SEND TO
OUTPUTS
1
FI LTER
2
3
4
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Operating Your MX36: Working with Failover and Redundancy
The MX36 is capable of operating with up to 3 levels of redundancy on any of the three main
quad channel input sets. There are therefore 36 channels available (3 x source type x 4
channels x 3 sets = 36).
The priority of the input sources is chosen for each set using the Input Source / Backup keys
for each of banks A, B & C. Analogue is always the lowest priority - your “if all else fails”
option. If a Dante subscription is removed or the network is lost, the MX36 will switch to the
backup (normally AES). If AES is lost then the MX36 will switch to the Analogue (on a 4
channel basis to maintain latency timings).
Working in this full redundancy/failover mode, the MX36 will handle three sets x four
channels (typically Left, Right, Front Fill, Sub).
Not all consoles will provide all three source types, so the Input Source Priority should be set
accordingly — if only Analogue and AES is available then the typical setting would be Primary =
AES and Backup = Analogue.
If only a single source type is available then redundancy can simply be switched off — for
example, if only AES is available then Primary = AES and Backup = OFF.
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Operating Your MX36: With and/or Without Redundancy
Each of the three “sets” of four inputs can be considered as having a switched sub-mixer to
select either the Dante streams, the AES pairs or the analogue inputs for the quad mix that
appears at the “top” of the console select switch, A, B or C. The switched sub-mixer can
either be used automatically (so with redundancy/failover) where the MX36 decides what
selection to use based on the Primary and Backup settings chosen, or, if redundancy is
disabled (so either Primary = Analogue, or Backup = OFF), then the Primary selection
manually determines which source appears at the “top” of the console select switch.
Example Setup
Consider a scenario where there is a warm-up act, support, and the main act.
The warm-up is a singer with an acoustic guitar, mixed onstage with a small analogue desk. This is connected to the
analogue inputs for set C, and the INPUT SOURCE
PRIMARY set to ANALOG. Note that selecting analogue as
the primary source will automatically disable the choice of
a backup source, and the button for BACKUP will
extinguish.
The support is a full band with a four bus analogue desk
which also has AES outputs. Making use of both the
analogue and digital outputs, they are connected to set B,
and the INPUT SOURCE PRIMARY set to AES. To use the
analogue inputs as the fallover source, the INPUT SOURCE
BACKUP is set to ANALOG.
The main act use a digital console with a Dante card fitted and
also supporting AES and analogue outputs. For the main act, all
three sources are utilised so there are two levels of failover,
Dante > AES > Analogue.
INPUT SOURCE PRIMARY is set to DANTE, BACKUP is set to AES
and , in this mode, ANALOGUE is automatically chosen as the
third failover source.
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Conditions That Trigger a Source Change in Redundancy Mode
If using Dante, then obviously if the audio network cable is disconnected, the unit will switch
to the backup source, and indicate this by flashing the Primary or Backup selector button for
the appropriate set A/B/C like this:
All four Dante inputs in a set MUST have a subscription for the unit to
consider this as valid signal conditions. If any channel of the set has
its subscription removed (it can be changed but not removed) then all
four are considered as lost and the unit will switch the set to the
backup source (if one is selected).
In AES mode, the same holds true but for pairs of AES inputs — BOTH
AES streams (forming the four inputs) must have a valid AES streams
— loss of clock, or total disconnection of EITHER stream will be seen as
source lost and the unit will switch the set to the backup source. It will
indicate the loss of signal by flashing the Primary or Backup selector
button beneath the AES selection on the appropriate set.
So, in the case of losing both Dante and AES (and so automatically
selecting Analogue), both the Primary and Backup source selector
buttons will be flashing like this:
If the source is restored, the unit will automatically switch back to
the higher priority source and return to normal operation.
Working without Redundancy
If alternate signal formats are not available for your sources, the
unit can be run entirely without redundancy or of course it can be mixed - some sets with or
without as explained the previous example on page 24.
If redundancy is not being used, the other inputs can be used to operate the unit in a different
way, and to simply switch between more sets of four channels, allowing connection of up to 9
x 4 channel sources (assuming 3 of each in analogue/AES/ Dante).
Backup sources are disabled (via the front panel — Backup = Off) and the Primary source
switching is used to cycle between the three signal types to select one of three consoles.
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Operating Your MX36: Increase Console Capacity with Cascade Mode
If it is necessary to manage more than three consoles that require redundant failover
support, units can be connected in cascade. This requires an audio network connection and a
control network connection from both units (even if Dante is not being used as a source type
by any of the consoles).
The Dante (audio network) connection is required, as the Dante outputs from one unit must be
connected to the “Aux” Dante inputs of the other unit so that it can provide a single set of four
outputs across all 6 possible console quad mixes.
The control network connection is required to send switching information (locking, solo etc.)
between both units.
The Console Select switches and failover source selection remain independent across the
units but the use of the Dante “Aux” bus means that all consoles’ audio is output from the unit
designated as the master. The set-up of the “Aux” bus to provide this routing is simply
achieved through Dante Controller.
As the stereo line input and mic channels are only over routed direct to the main outputs,
these will also cascade across both units.
Please note that in this initial release, parallel and cascade modes are disabled. They will
be activated in the next feature release of firmware.
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Operating Your MX36: Increase Channel Capacity with Parallel Mode
If it is necessary to manage more than four outputs per console and maintain redundant
failover support, units can be connected in parallel. This requires an audio network
connection and a control network connection from both units (even if Dante is not being used
as a source type by any of the consoles).
The Dante (audio network) connection is required to provide a bus for the stereo line feed and
mono mic channels across all outputs. The control network connection is required to send
switching information (locking, solo etc.) between both units, as well as Console Select, which
is automatically synchronised.
Any redundancy and failover set up on the system will be synchronised across all outputs.
Please note that in this initial release, parallel and cascade modes are disabled. They will
be activated in the next feature release of firmware.
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Looking After Your MX36: Maintenance
The casework of the unit may be cleaned with a lightly dampened cloth — do not use any
solvents as they will damage the paint finish and could remove printing.
The unit contains a memory backup battery to maintain current front panel settings when
powered down. This is a non-rechargeable coin cell type CRO32 and is fitted to a holder that
allows it to be easily replaced without soldering. The battery should last 3 years. All factory
calibration settings are stored in Flash ROM and will not be lost should the battery fail.
If you have any doubts about carrying out maintenance, please refer to a service engineer or
contact your local dealer.
Looking After Your MX36: Warranty
Your MX36 is guaranteed for a period of five (5) years from the date of manufacture.
Please note that this does not apply to OEM versions of the amplifier — please consult your
manufacturer for their warranty terms. We hope that it gives you many more years of reliable
service than this, but should anything go wrong, please contact us to advise you about repairs
or any spares you might require.
Please do not attempt to repair the unit yourself as doing so will invalidate the warranty.
Our contact details are:
XTA Electronics Limited,
The Design House
Vale Business Park
Worcester Road
Stourport on Severn
Worcestershire
England
DY13 9BZ
Tel: +44(0)1299 879977
Fax: +44(0)1299 879969
email: sales@xta.co.uk for general enquiries
Our website is a great place to get started if you have any questions regarding the general use
of your unit or need copies of this manual in digital form, or datasheets and photographs.
www.xta.co.uk
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Performance Of Your MX36: Specifications
Audio Specifications
Parameter (Units) MX36
Analogue line inputs (incl stereo line input)
Channels (3 x 4) + (1 x 2)
Input impedance (Ohms) 10k
Max input level (dBu) +22
CMR @ 100Hz (dB) >70
THD 20-20k (%) <0.002
Analogue microphone input
Channels 1
Input impedance (Ohms) 10k
Max input level (dBu) +22
Equivalent Input Noise @ 150R Impedance (dBu) -127
CMR @ 100Hz (dB) >80
Analogue outputs
Output source impedance (Ohms) 70
Min load impedance (Ohms) 300
Max output level (dBu) +22
Headphone output (stereo jack — mono signal)
Min load impedance/Ch. (Ohms) 8
THD 20-20k (%) <0.013
Max output power (W) ~1.5
Frequency Response, +0/0.2dB (Hz) 20 — 20k
AES digital outputs
Channels @ 96kHz (or External clock fs) 2 x 2
Voltage @ 110R termination balanced (V) 2.5
AES digital inputs
Channels 3 x (2 x 2)
Sample rate (kHz) 44.1 — 192
Sample Rate Converters 6 x 2Ch.
External word clock input1
Impedance termination (Ohms) 150
Accepted voltage range (V) 0.2 — 7.0
Dante network Audio I-O
Input channels available 12+4 aux2
Output channels available 4+4 aux1
Sample rates supported (kHz) 48/96
System Specifications
Parameter (Units) MX36
Mains supply (V AC) 100-240
Power Consumption (W) <50W3
Dimensions H x W x D (mm)
Unit (excl. connectors) 88 x 482 x 335
Boxed 230 x 580 x 560
Boxed Shipping — all except UK 250 x 610 x 600
Weight (kgs)
Unit 5.1
Boxed 6.3
Due to continuing product improvement, the above specifications are subject to change.
1
External word clock input is used to synchronise AES outputs only
2
Auxiliary Dante channels are only accessible when units operate in cascade or parallel mode
3
Maximum with both PSUs connected
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Appendix I: Microphone and Stereo Line Input DSP Filter Responses
Stereo Line Input:
12dB/Oct. Butterworth HPF @ 80.3Hz;
12dB/Oct. Butterworth LPF @ 16kHz
Microphone Input:
24dB/Oct. Butterworth HPF @ 66.2Hz;
500Hz PEQ -3.3dB, Q = 0.84;
1kHz PEQ 2.2dB, Q = 0.4;
Channel gain +1.5dB
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Appendix II: Upgrading Firmware
Loading new firmware uses the “Flash Loader” utility that is bundled with the firmware “bin”
(binary) file. Firmware (or Program) files have the prefix “LTAM”.
Communications Set-up
Updates can be performed through the Ethernet CONTORL port connection. This is fitted to
all versions of MX Series units and is separate to the Dante Audio Ports.
Download the Files
Go to the Support > Latest Software section of the XTA website to find the latest firmware —
this will be bundled with the “Flash Loader” application that is used to connect and update
your unit.
Unzip the files — you will have the loader application, and the firmware file as appropriate.
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Connect To The Unit
To avoid any confusion, we recommend only connecting one MX Series unit to the network at
a time when performing firmware updates, or power down any other devices temporarily.
Start the loader application:
Press the “Connect” button to scan Ethernet connections.
After a few seconds, the unit should be located and its status and type should be displayed,
along with the current firmware and some other information.
Choose What To Load
Locate the firmware file by pressing the “…” button and then from the drop-down list choose
“program” (firmware).
The file type will have been filtered for you — LTAM*.bin for firmware (program) files.
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Start The Update!
Just before you press the “Load” button — please close any other applications running on the
PC — interruptions in the process could render your unit inoperable. Do not disconnect the
cable, turn off the power or attempt to close the loader app once loading has begun!
Now that you have been warned (!) — press the “Load” button. Confirm the load, and the unit
will mute and begin to load the new firmware. Progress of the loading is indicated on the LED
sections within the Line Monitoring section.
Upon completion, the app will close, and your unit will restart — that’s it!
What If It All Goes Wrong…
Don’t panic! Your unit can be recovered, but please be aware that this will involve taking the
top cover off and exposing potentially dangerous mains voltages. If you are unsure about
doing this, then please do nothing and email us for further information.
Otherwise, disconnect your unit completely from the incoming mains supply.
It is now safe to remove the top cover - be careful not to drop any screws inside!
Locate the “Rescue” link CN1 — between ICs U2 and U3 on the front circuit board - and remove
it. This will make your unit run in recovery mode — the original firmware version loaded at the
factory will now be active.
Replace the top cover temporarily, reapply mains power and switch on. Once booted, perform
a program update again using the Flash Loader application.
Upon completion, the app will close. Disconnect the power and remove top cover and replace
the “Rescue Recovery” link once more.
Replace top cover and screw into place.
Your unit should now be fully operational again — no settings will have been lost in the
process.
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Appendix III: Dante I-O Channels Mapping
The MX36 appears in Dante Controller as “XTADPC-XXXXX” by default but this can be changed
to a more friendly name if required.
Individual receiving channels are labelled as follows:
“Input A Ch 1”
“Input A Ch 2”
“Input A Ch 3”
“Input A Ch 4”
“Input B Ch 1”
“Input B Ch 2”
“Input B Ch 3”
“Input B Ch 4”
“Input C Ch 1”
“Input C Ch 2”
“Input C Ch 3”
“Input C Ch 4”
Individual transmitting channels are labelled as follows:
Main outputs:
“Output Ch 1”
“Output Ch 2”
“Output Ch 3”
“Output Ch 4”
Additionally, there is an auxiliary 4 channel bus which is for use in Cascade and Parallel
modes (available in the next feature release of firmware). The transmitter bus is available for
routing with the following channels:
“Output Mic” —microphone channel output, post “ON” switching, Filter and Gain
“Output Line L”, “Output Line R” — stereo line channels, post “ON” switching, Filter and Gain
“Output Monitor” — the audio currently on the headphones, pre Level control
The four receiver channels labelled “Input Aux Ch 1” to “Input Aux Ch 4” are currently muted
in the MX36, and are reserved for use in the Cascade and Parallel modes.
©XTA Electronics Ltd 2019
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