User Manual

ULTRALINK PRO MX882

Ultra-Flexible 8-Channel Splitter/Mixer
2 ULTRALINK PRO MX882 User Manual

Table of Contents
Important Safety Instructions....................................... 3
Legal Disclaimer.............................................................. 3
Limited warranty............................................................. 3
1. Introduction................................................................ 4
2. The Design Concept................................................... 4
2.1 High quality components and design......................... 4
2.2 Inputs and outputs............................................................. 4
2.2.1 Balanced inputs and outputs.................................... 4
3. Installation.................................................................. 5
3.1 Rack mounting...................................................................... 5
3.2 Mains voltage........................................................................ 5
3.3 Audio connections.............................................................. 5
4. Control Elements........................................................ 6
4.1 The front panel control elements.................................. 6
4.2 The rear panel elements................................................... 6
5. Block Diagram............................................................. 7
6. Applications................................................................ 8
6.1 Application as a mixer........................................................ 8
6.2 Application as a splitter..................................................... 9
6.2.1 The ULTRALINK PRO as a 4-channel
stereo splitter............................................................................. 9
6.3 Application as a matching amplifier........................... 10
7. Specifications............................................................ 11
3 ULTRALINK PRO MX882 User Manual

Important Safety 9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized TO BIND MUSIC GROUP BY ANY EXPRESS OR IMPLIED
Instructions or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades UNDERTAKING OR REPRESENTATION. THIS MANUAL
with one wider than the other. A grounding-type plug IS COPYRIGHTED. NO PART OF THIS MANUAL MAY
has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide BE REPRODUCED OR TRANSMITTED IN ANY FORM
blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. If the OR BY ANY MEANS, ELECTRONIC OR MECHANICAL,
provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an INCLUDING PHOTOCOPYING AND RECORDING OF ANY
electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet. KIND, FOR ANY PURPOSE, WITHOUT THE EXPRESS
10. Protect the power cord from being walked on or WRITTEN PERMISSION OF MUSIC GROUP IP LTD.
pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles,
Terminals marked with this symbol carry ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
electrical current of sufficient magnitude © 2013 MUSIC Group IP Ltd.
to constitute risk of electric shock. 11. Use only attachments/accessories specified by Trident Chambers, Wickhams Cay, P.O. Box 146,
Use only high-quality professional speaker cables with the manufacturer. Road Town, Tortola, British Virgin Islands
¼" TS or twist-locking plugs pre-installed. All other 12. Use only with the
installation or modification should be performed only cart, stand, tripod, bracket,
by qualified personnel. LIMITED WARRANTY
or table specified by the
manufacturer, or sold with For the applicable warranty terms and conditions
This symbol, wherever it appears,
the apparatus. When a cart and additional information regarding MUSIC Group’s
alerts you to the presence of uninsulated
is used, use caution when Limited Warranty, please see complete details online at
dangerous voltage inside the
moving the cart/apparatus www.music-group.com/warranty.
enclosure - voltage that may be sufficient to constitute a
risk of shock. combination to avoid
injury from tip-over.
This symbol, wherever it appears,
13. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or
alerts you to important operating and
when unused for long periods of time.
maintenance instructions in the
accompanying literature. Please read the manual. 14. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
Servicing is required when the apparatus has been
Caution damaged in any way, such as power supply cord or plug
To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen
remove the top cover (or the rear section). into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed
No user serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has
qualified personnel. been dropped.
Caution 15. The apparatus shall be connected to a MAINS socket
To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, outlet with a protective earthing connection.
do not expose this appliance to rain and 16. Where the MAINS plug or an appliance coupler is
moisture. The apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping used as the disconnect device, the disconnect device shall
or splashing liquids and no objects filled with liquids, remain readily operable.
such as vases, shall be placed on the apparatus.
Caution
These service instructions are for use
by qualified service personnel only.
To reduce the risk of electric shock do not perform any
servicing other than that contained in the operation
instructions. Repairs have to be performed by qualified
service personnel.
1. Read these instructions.
LEGAL DISCLAIMER
2. Keep these instructions.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS AND APPEARANCES
3. Heed all warnings.
ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE AND
4. Follow all instructions. ACCURACY IS NOT GUARANTEED. BEHRINGER,
5. Do not use this apparatus near water. KLARK TEKNIK, MIDAS, BUGERA, AND TURBOSOUND
6. Clean only with dry cloth. ARE PART OF THE MUSIC GROUP (MUSIC-GROUP.COM).
ALL TRADEMARKS ARE THE PROPERTY OF THEIR
7. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in
RESPECTIVE OWNERS. MUSIC GROUP ACCEPTS NO
accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
LIABILITY FOR ANY LOSS WHICH MAY BE SUFFERED
8. Do not install near any heat sources such as BY ANY PERSON WHO RELIES EITHER WHOLLY OR
radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus IN PART UPON ANY DESCRIPTION, PHOTOGRAPH
(including amplifiers) that produce heat. OR STATEMENT CONTAINED HEREIN. COLORS AND
SPECIFICATIONS MAY VARY FROM ACTUAL PRODUCT.
MUSIC GROUP PRODUCTS ARE SOLD THROUGH
AUTHORIZED FULLFILLERS AND RESELLERS ONLY.
FULLFILLERS AND RESELLERS ARE NOT AGENTS OF
MUSIC GROUP AND HAVE ABSOLUTELY NO AUTHORITY
4 ULTRALINK PRO MX882 User Manual

1. Introduction Typical applications

With the BEHRINGER ULTRALINK PRO you have purchased an ultra-flexible The ULTRALINK PRO MX882 is one of the most flexible systems of its type.
“problem solver” in signal distribution applications, designed to meet The following applications can be realized:
highest requirements: professional recording, broadcast and television
2 IN/8 OUT splitter, 8 IN/2 OUT mixer, 6 IN/6 OUT matching amplifier or any
studios, CD and digital production facilities, etc. Much like an all-in-one tool,
other combination.
it provides virtually unlimited configurations. Be it the distribution of a stereo
signal to several outputs (splitter); the combination of separate signals to • Keyboard submixer
one stereo output (mixer), or the specific level adaption of individual signals
• Distribution amplifier for P.A. systems, discotheques, theatres, churches,
(buffer amplifier): the ULTRALINK PRO can perform all of these functions
hotels, communication systems, etc.
easily - and simultaneously.
• Add-on module for mixer channels
Future-oriented BEHRINGER technology
• Add-on module for effect and monitor paths
Our ULTRALINK range of devices has been a hit ever since we introduced our
• Level translator from -10 dBV to +4 dBu etc.
first model several years ago. This splitter/mixer is based on many years of
experience and findings in mixing technology and is used throughout the world By combining several ULTRALINK PROs you can set up, for instance, a 24-channel
in renowned studios, sound reinforcement systems as well as in broadcast and mixer or splitter.
television studios.
◊ The following operational manual will introduce you to the BEHRINGER
It was a real challenge to improve the well-known ULTRALINK even further, ULTRALINK PRO and its various functions. After reading the manual
and we are proud of our success. Compared to its predecessor models, carefully, make sure it is always on hand for future reference.
the ULTRALINK PRO not only has additional features, but also comes with
dramatically improved functionality. For example, it now has input and output
level meters and balanced in- and outputs. 2. The Design Concept
The architecture of the ULTRALINK PRO 2.1 High quality components and design
Basically, the unit consists of six mono channels, which can be used either as a The philosophy behind BEHRINGER products guarantees a no-compromise circuit
splitter or as a mixer. For instance, a stereo program source can be inserted via design and employs the best choice of components. The operational amplifiers
the main input to be subsequently routed to any of the mono channels that are NJM4580 which are used in the ULTRALINK PRO, are exceptional. They boast
set to SPLIT mode. Using the individual BALANCE/PAN control, you can—for each extreme linearity and very low distortion characteristics. To complement this
channel—determine the ratio between the left and right main input signals that design the choice of components includes high tolerance resistors and capacitors,
are routed to the corresponding output of the channels. Thus, the stereo input detent potentiometers and several other stringently selected elements.
signal coming from the main input section can be distributed selectively among
For the first time, the ULTRALINK PRO MX882 uses SMD technology
the six mono output channels.
(Surface Mounted Device). These sub-miniature components known from
In MIX mode, the input signals from the respective channel(s) can be mixed at aerospace technology allow for an extreme packing density and improved
the stereo main output, with the individual BALANCE/PAN control determining reliability. Additionally, the unit is manufactured in compliance with a ISO9000
the signal ratio between the left and right main outputs (pan function). It is of certified management system.
particular advantage that, in MIX mode, the stereo input signal from the main
input section is alternatively routed to the main outputs. By using this feature a 2.2 Inputs and outputs
total of up to 8 single signals can be combined.
2.2.1 Balanced inputs and outputs
In MIX mode, the mono input signals are simultaneously applied to the
respective mono outputs, which permits each channel to be used as an individual As standard, the BEHRINGER ULTRALINK PRO is installed with electronically
matching amplifier. The LEVEL controls in the corresponding channels enable servo-balanced inputs and outputs. The new circuit design features automatic
the user to adapt the levels at will, with a maximum gain of +15 dB. Levels used hum and noise reduction for balanced signals and thus allows for trouble-free
in home-recording can therefore be converted into studio levels (+4 dBu), operation, even at high operating levels. Externally induced mains hum etc.
and vice versa. will be effectively suppressed. The automatic servo-function recognizes the
presence of unbalanced connectors and adjusts the nominal level internally to
avoid level differences between the input and output signals (correction 6 dB).
5 ULTRALINK PRO MX882 User Manual

3. Installation Balanced ¼" TRS connector

Your BEHRINGER ULTRALINK PRO was carefully packed in the factory and strain relief clamp

the packaging was designed to protect the unit from rough handling. sleeve
ring
Nevertheless, we recommend that you carefully examine the packaging and its tip
contents for any signs of physical damage, which may have occurred in transit.
◊ If the unit is damaged, please do not return it to us, but notify your
dealer and the shipping company immediately, otherwise claims for sleeve
damage or replacement may not be granted. Shipping claims must be ground/shield
made by the consignee.
ring
cold (-ve)
3.1 Rack mounting tip
hot (+ve)
The BEHRINGER ULTRALINK PRO fits into one standard 19" rack unit of space For connection of balanced and unbalanced plugs,
(1 3/4"). Please allow at least an additional 4" depth for the connectors on the ring and sleeve have to be bridged at the stereo plug.

back panel. Be sure that there is enough air space around the unit for cooling
and please do not place the ULTRALINK PRO on high temperature devices such as
power amplifiers etc. to avoid overheating. Balanced use with XLR connectors

3.2 Mains voltage 2 1

3
Before you connect your ULTRALINK PRO to the mains, please make
sure that your local voltage matches the voltage required by the input
unit! The fuse holder on the female mains connector has 3 triangular markers, 1 = ground/shield
with two of these triangles opposing each other. Your ULTRALINK PRO is set to 2 = hot (+ve)
3 = cold (-ve)
the operating voltage printed next to these markers, and can be set to another
voltage by turning the fuse holder by 180°. CAUTION: this instruction 1 2
does not apply to export models exclusively designed, e.g. for 3
115 V operation!
output
3.3 Audio connections For unbalanced use, pin 1 and pin 3
have to be bridged
The audio inputs and outputs on the BEHRINGER ULTRALINK PRO are fully
balanced. If possible, connect the unit to other devices in a balanced Fig. 3.1: Different plug types
configuration to allow for maximum interference immunity.
◊ Please ensure that only qualified persons install and operate the
Unbalanced ¼" TS connector ULTRALINK PRO. During installation and operation the user must have
strain relief clamp sufficient electrical contact to earth. Electrostatic charges might affect
sleeve
the operation of the ULTRALINK PRO!

tip

sleeve
(ground/shield)

tip
(signal)
6 ULTRALINK PRO MX882 User Manual

4. Control Elements

Fig. 4.1: ULTRALINK PRO front panel

The Behringer ULTRALINK PRO has six identical channels. Each channel is of +15 dB—allows for converting, e.g., home recording levels (-10 dBV)
equipped with two rotary controls, one button and eight LEDs. Moreover there is into studio levels (+4 dBu).
a main section with two rotary controls, one button and eight LEDs.
(8) The 8-digit OUTPUT LEVEL meter informs you about the output level of each
channel within a range from -24 to +18 dB.
4.1 The front panel control elements
(9) With the BALANCE/PAN control you can set the balance between the left
(2) (5) (8) and right main signals. In SPLIT mode, the main input signal is routed to the
mono output, with the BALANCE control determining the balance beween
the left and right main signal portions. In MIX mode, the mono inputs are
mixed and routed via the LEVEL control to the main outputs, with the PAN
controls determining the allocation of the mono inputs to the left and right
main outputs.

4.2 The rear panel elements

(10) FUSE HOLDER / VOLTAGE SELECTOR. Please make sure that your local
(1) (3) (4) (6) (7) (9) voltage matches the voltage indicated on the unit, before you attempt to
connect and operate the ULTRALINK PRO. Blown fuses may only be replaced
Fig. 4.2: Control elements on the front panel
by fuses of the same type and rating.
(1) The MAIN INPUT LEVEL control sets the main input gain, before the (11) MAINS CONNECTION. Use the enclosed power cord to connect the unit to
signal reaches the input bus. In SPLIT mode, the MAIN INPUT LEVEL control the mains. Please also note the instructions given in chapter 3 “Installation”.
determines the common output level for all mono outputs.
(12) MAIN INPUTS. These are the main audio inputs of your ULTRALINK PRO,
(2) The 4-digit INPUT LEVEL meter informs you about the input level of the available as balanced XLR connectors. They may feed the mono outputs of all
main input within a range from -24 to +6 dB. channels which are operated in SPLIT mode.
(3) By depressing the MAIN LINK switch you can route the MAIN INPUT signal (13) MAIN OUTPUTS. These are the main outputs, available as balanced XLR
to the MAIN OUT. This way it is possible to route a maximum of eight input connectors. They may be fed either by the left and right main inputs or by
channels to the main mix. any of the six mono inputs (or a combination of both).
(4) The MAIN OUTPUT LEVEL control adjusts the output level applied to the (14) MONO INPUTS (channel 1 to 4). These are the mono inputs.
main outputs. The levels present at the six mono outputs are not affected. Connection takes place via balanced XLR connectors.
Summing the signal levels of several mono channels can overload the main
(15) MONO OUTPUTS (channel 1 to 4). These are the mono outputs, available as
output stage. The MAIN OUTPUT LEVEL control is therefore used to adjust the
balanced XLR connectors.
overall output level.
(16) MONO INPUTS (channel 5 to 6). These are the mono inputs.
(5) The 4-digit OUTPUT LEVEL meter informs you about the output level of the
Connection takes place via balanced phone jacks.
main input within a range from -24 to +6 dB.
(17) MONO OUTPUTS (channel 5 to 6). These are the mono outputs, available as
(6) This SPLIT/MIX switch sets the respective channel to SPLITTER or MIXER mode.
balanced phone jacks.
(7) The LEVEL control determines the signal level of the individual channels.
◊ Please take the time to fill in and return the warranty card within
In SPLIT mode, the LEVEL control sets the output level of the mono channels.
14 days after the date of purchase, so as to benefit from our extended
In MIX mode, however, it controls the amount of the mono channel’s input
warranty. Or use our online registration option available on the World
signal feeding into the main output section; at the same time, the level of
Wide Web at behringer.com.
the mono channel can be determined, which—owing to the maximum gain

(10) (17) (16) (15) (14) (13) (12)

(11)
Fig. 4.3: Rear panel elements
7 ULTRALINK PRO MX882 User Manual

5. Block Diagram

Fig. 5.1: Block diagram of the BEHRINGER ULTRALINK PRO MX882

MAIN Section MIX Mode

Both main inputs interface via the MAIN INPUT LEVEL control with the input In MIX mode, the input signals of the mono channels are “collected” via the
bus as well as with the main outputs. The MAIN OUTPUT LEVEL control LEVEL and PAN controls and are routed to the output bus. In this mode, the LEVEL
determines the output level of the signals which are summed by the second bus control determines the amount of each channel at the output bus, while the PAN
(i.e., the output bus) and are subsequently routed to the main outputs. control is responsible for the allocation of the input signal to the left and right
main outputs.
SPLIT Mode
Additionally, the input signal is routed to the respective mono outputs,
In SPLIT mode, the main input signal is sent via the BALANCE control to i.e., the circuit acts as a matching amplifier. The LEVEL control allows for level
the output buffer amplifiers of the mono channels, with the LEVEL control compensation of up to +15 dB.
determining the output level of the respective channel. The maximum gain
is +15 dB.
8 ULTRALINK PRO MX882 User Manual

6. Applications
6.1 Application as a mixer

Fig. 6.1: Block diagram of the MIXER function

When the mono channels are operated in MIX mode, a maximum of 8 (6+2) Since the two main inputs are alternatively routeable to the main outputs,
mono input signals can be summed and routed to the main outputs. In this mode, two additional input signals can be added using the main inputs. For this you
the individual signal sources are connected to the mono inputs on the BEHRINGER have to depress the MAIN LINK switch. However, as these inputs do not feature
ULTRALINK PRO. Each channel has a LEVEL knob to control the amount of its a PAN control, the left main input will always be routed to the left main output;
signal relative to others in the main section. Via the corresponding PAN control, similarly, the right main input can only be sent to the right main output. A total
each mono input signal can be routed either to the left or right main output. of 8 mono channels can thus be routed to two main outputs.
Of course, any intermediate pan settings can be achieved as well. The MAIN
OUTPUT LEVEL control determines the overall level of the main output signal.
9 ULTRALINK PRO MX882 User Manual

6.2 Application as a splitter

Fig. 6.2: Block diagram of the SPLITTER function

A splitter is a distribution amplifier which allows for splitting a specific input 6.2.1 The ULTRALINK PRO as a 4-channel stereo splitter
signal to several outputs. This function is of use, e.g., in a large-scale sound
For this special application, the splitter function configures the unit as a
reinforcement system where the mixer’s output signal needs to be allocated
4-channel stereo splitter. Here, the stereo signal source is connected to the two
to several power amplifiers. Another field of application is in tape duplication
main inputs. If all mono channels are operated in SPLIT mode, the BALANCE
systems, where one master tape machine is to be interfaced with several tape
controls of channels 1, 3, and 5 are set to “LEFT”, and the BALANCE controls of
duplication recorders.
channels 2, 4, and 6 to “RIGHT”: thus, the corresponding stereo output pairs
In this mode, the output signal from the mixer is applied to the main inputs of are routed through channels 1+2, 3+4, and 5+6. This kind of application is
the BEHRINGER ULTRALINK PRO. If the SPLIT/MIX switches are set to “SPLIT”, particularly useful for tape duplication systems.
the mono outputs of the respective channels provide either the left or the right
main signal. Depending on the setting of the BALANCE control, any balance
between left and right main signal can be adjusted.
At the same time, the main input signal is also sent to the left or right main
output, so that here two additional splitter outputs are available. Please note
that these outputs do not feature a balance routing function. The left main input
is routed exclusively to the left main output; similarly, the right main input feeds
the right main output only.
10 ULTRALINK PRO MX882 User Manual

6.3 Application as a matching amplifier

Fig. 6.3: Block diagram of the MATCHING AMPLIFIER function

The BEHRINGER ULTRALINK PRO can also be used as a multiple matching In this application, the ULTRALINK PRO is operated in MIX mode. The output
amplifier. The task of a matching amplifier is to convert the level of a signal of the signal source is connected to the mono input of the ULTRALINK PRO.
source into another level. For instance, a cassette recorder with home recording The corresponding mono output provides the resulting output signal which can
level (-10 dBV) can be raised to studio level (+4 dBu). Of course, this process can be raised or lowered in level. Each of the six mono channels is equipped with a
also be reversed (level attenuation). LEVEL control. The control range is from -∞ (full attenuation) to a maximum gain
of +15 dB.
11 ULTRALINK PRO MX882 User Manual

7. Specifications
Audio Inputs Power Supply

Connectors XLR and 1/4" TRS Mains Voltages

Type RF filtered, servo-balanced input USA/Canada 120 V~, 60 Hz
Impedance 50 kOhms balanced, U.K./Australia 240 V~, 50 Hz
25 kOhms unbalanced
Europe 230 V~, 50 Hz
Nominal operating level -10 dBV to +4 dBu
General Export Model 100 - 120 V~, 200 - 240 V~, 50 - 60 Hz
Max. input level +21 dBu balanced and unbalanced
Power Consumption max. 35 Watts
CMRR Typ. 40 dB, > 55 dB @ 1 kHz
Fuse 100 - 120 V~: T 630 mA H
200 - 240 V~: T 315 mA H
Audio Outputs
Mains Connection Standard IEC receptacle
Connectors XLR and 1/4" TRS
Type Electronically servo-balanced Physical/Weight
output stage
Dimensions (H x W x D) approx. 8.5 x 1.75 x 19"
Impedance 60 Ohms balanced, approx. 217 x 44.5 x 483 mm
30 Ohms unbalanced
Net Weight approx. 2.38 kg
Max. output level +22 dBu balanced and unbalanced
Shipping Weight approx. 3.5 kg
System Specifications BEHRINGER is constantly striving to maintain the highest professional standards. As a result of these efforts,
modifications may be made from time to time to existing products without prior notice. Specifications and
Frequency response 5 Hz to 200 kHz, +/-3 dB appearance may differ from those listed or shown.
S/N ratio >95 dBu, unweighted, 22 Hz to 22 kHz
THD 0.002% typ. @ +4 dBu, 1kHz, gain 1

Function Controls

Main input level variable

Main ouput level variable
Level variable for each channel
Balance/pan placing in the stereo field

Function Switches

Main Link links the main input signal to the

main output
Split/mix changeover from split to mix mode for
each channel

Indicators

Input level (main) 4-digit LED display: -24/-12/0/+6 dB

Ouput level (main) 4-digit LED display: -24/-12/0/+6 dB
Input/output level 8-digit LED display:
-24/-18/-12/-6/0/+6/+12/+18 dB
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