Operating Instruction Manual

POWERED MIXER
Model MX-601

Toa Electric Co., Ltd.

KOBE, JAPAN

Contents

General Description Features Front Panel [Names of components & their usage] Rear Panel [Names of Components & their usage] Connection Examples Input Connections How to get a good mix Block and Level Diagrams Specifications Characteristics Diagrams Appearance

2 2 3 4 5 6
7

8 9 10 10

Precautions

1. XLR Type Audio Connector The connectors are wired as follows. The pin 1 is ground (shield,) the pin 2 cold (low, minus), the pin 3 hot (high, plus.) 2. Description of components and functions on the MX-601 Various descriptions are applied, depending on each manufacturer. In our Operating and Instruction Manual explanation of components and functions is made according to our usage for them.

General Description
The MX-601 is a compact self-powered mixer with a wide array of sophisticated features many of them unavailable on any competitive models. An examination of performance levels and specifications will reveal the truly professional nature of the MX-601. The rugged construction and specialized packaging ensure optimum performance and reliability under even the most demanding "on the road" applications. The MX-601 features 6 input channels; 1 program, 1 foldback, and 1 effects output. The internal power amplifier is rated at 120 watts into 8 ohms, 200 watts into 4 ohms, and 300 watts into 2 ohms load. Each input channel features an electronically balanced XLR connector, and a high impedance unbalanced 1/4" phone jack. An input trim control is provided to accommodate a wide range of input source levels. A peak indicator LED detects excessive input signal (either pre or post EQ), aiding in proper settings of the trim control to avoid input clipping. Each channel also features 4-band equalization, a "pre" foldback send, a "post" reverb/effects send, and program level control. The master control section features a one-octave (10-band) graphic equalizer, high and low equalizer control of an internal reverberation unit, auxiliary input controls, LED bargraph output meters, and a full patch bay with our exclusive Bus-Link capability. All master level controls, and effects return to program and foldback busses are also contained in this section.

Features

1. Six Input channels

2. 300 watts RMS (@ 2 ohms)

7. Power amp protection circuitry w/indicator

8. Complete patch bay w/buss link

9. AUX and TAPE inputs w/pan and level controls

3. 10-band graphic equalizer w/bypass switch 4. Auto Comp compression circuitry w/indicator 5. Built-in spring reverberation unit
6. LED bargraph metering

10. Reverb-effects return to PGM and FB 11. Independent foldback mix

12. Input Channels 5 and 6 have electronically balanced XLR mic input connector with switchable 40 volts phantom power

Each Channel
1. Input trim control w/LED peak indicator
2. Pre EQ foldback send
3. 4-band EQ

4. Post effects send

5. Lo-Z balanced XLR input 6. Hi-Z unbalanced 1/4" input

Front Panel
Peak Indicator (PEAK) The peak indicator lights when the pre or post EQ signal level reaches 3dB below clipping, giving a visual reference for optimum setting of the trim control. Foldback Control (FB) The Foldback control determines the level of signal assigned to the foldback mixing buss, thus setting the level of that channel in the on-stage monitor mix. Reverb/Effects Control (REV/EFF) This control determines the level of signal assigned to the reverb effects buss. Rotating the control clockwise increases the amount of reverb effect in that channel. High Equalizer Control (High) The high EQ control provides 15dB of continuously variable shelving equalization at 20 kHz. and has a flat audio response when set to the "0" detented position. High-Mid Equalizer Control (HIGH MID) The high-mid EQ control provides 13dB of continuously variable peaking equalization at 3kHz. and has a flat audio response when set to the "0" detented position. Low-Mid Equalizer Control (LOW MID) The low-mid EQ control provides 13dB of continuously variable peaking equalization at 300Hz. and has a flat audio response when set to the "0" detented position. LOW Equalizer Control (LOW) The low EQ control provides 15dB of continuously variable shelving equalization at 30Hz. and has a flat audio response when set to the "0" detented position. Input Level Control (LEVEL) The level control provides continuously variable adjustment of the channel output to the program mixing buss, thus determining the level of that channel in the main sound system mix. Since the reverb/effects signal is "post" this control, an increase in the level of the channel's output will also result in a corresponding increase in the reverb effect of that channel. The nominal level of the input level control is at the "0" position. Low Impedance Connectors (LOW Z) The XLR connectors are low impedance, electronically balanced inputs with an input impedance of 1k ohms. Input Trim Control (TRIM) The input trim adjusts the gain of the head-amp stage of the associated channel, providing 39dB of gain control. When the trim control is set to the "0" position, the nominal input levels of the low-Z and high-Z inputs are -55dB and -35dB respectively. At the "-30" position the levels are -16dB and +4dB. The trim of each channel should be adjusted so that the peak LED just begins to light, or only flashes occasionally. This will ensure lowest distortion levels and optimum signal to noise ratio. Foldback Master Control (FB) The FB master control adjusts the overall combined signal level of the six independent channel foldback sends, and thus the level of the entire onstage monitor mix. Reverb/effects to Foldback Control (REV/EFF TO FB) This control adjusts the amount of reverb/effects signal that is returned to the foldback buss and thus the level of reverb/ effects contained in the onstage monitor mix. Reverb/Effects Send Control (REV/EFF SEND) This control adjusts the overall signal level of the effects mix that is delivered to the internal reverberation unit, or to an external effects device through the effects output. The send control works in conjunction with the REV/EFF to PGM and the REV/ EFF to FB controls to set the overall level of reverb/effects in the main and monitor sound systems. Reverberation High Equalizer Control (HIGH EQ) The high EQ control alters the high frequency response of the reverberation signal. The "0" detented position provides flat audio response. Reverberation Low Equalizer Control (LOW EQ) The low EQ control alters the low frequency response of the reverberation signal. The "0" detented position provides flat audio response. Equalization LED Indicator (EQUALIZATION) The LED indicator lights when the equalization switch is set to "IN" position. Graphic Equalizer In/Out Switch (IN/OUT) The in/out switch enables comparison between a flat response (out) and the equalized response (in). The "out" position completely removes the equalizer from the MX-601 circuitry. LED Bargraph Peak Meters (PGM/FB) The high intensity meters enable visual monitoring of the program and foldback output signal levels Power LED Indicator (POWER) The LED indicator lights when the power switch is set to "ON" position. Power Amp Protection Indicator (PROJECT) The indicator LED lights if the power amplifier output is shorted, if the temperature of the unit rises above acceptable levels, or if DC is drifted to the speaker outputs. If the LED should light, speaker wiring and ambient temperature of the MX601 should be checked. If the LED remains lighted, the unit should be referred to qualified service personnel for repair. Note: The MX-601 protection circuitry will (1) detect faulty conditions within the power amplifier, (2) give a visual indication, and (3) automatically shut down until the fault condition is alleviated. This special circuitry ensures maximum reliability and virtually eliminates equipment damage due to unsafe or fault conditions. Please refer to fault protection table on page 7 for full explanation of this important feature.

Graphic Equalizer (EQUALIZATION) The graphic equalizer is 1/1 octave with 10 independent active bands (filters), providing 12dB of boost or cut at each center frequency. The "0" detented position provides flat audio response. High Impedance Connectors (HIGH Z) These connectors are unbalanced, standard 1/4" phone jacks with an input impedance of 50k ohms, and an input level of -35dB when the trim control is set to "0". When a plug is inserted into the high-Zinput, the corresponding XLR connector is automatically switched out of the input circuitry. Program Master Control (PGM) The PGM control adjusts the overall combined signal level of the six independent channel level controls, and thus the level of the main sound system. Reverb/Effects to Program Control (REV/EFF TO PGM) This control adjusts the amount of reverb/effects signal that is returned to the program buss and thus the level of reverb/ effects contained in the main sound system. Aux/Tape Level Control (AUX/TAPE) This control sets the overall level of the AUX/TAPE input signal

Buss Link Jack (BUSS LINK) Patching Jack (PATCH BAY/OUT) Patching Jack (PATCH BAY/IN)

Aux/Tape Panpot (AUX/TAPE PAN) This control assigns the auxiliary and tape input signal (a tapedeck, etc., connected to the aux input jacks) to either the program or the foldback mixing busses. At the center position, the signal is routed equally to both busses. Panning from one side to the other gradually assigns the signal to either independently. Power Amp Compression Indicator (COMP) The Comp LED lights when the internal compressor is activated The compressor is provided to protect speaker systems by compressing the input signal level of the power amplifier when clipping occurs in the output stage. Frequent flashing of the LED is not reason for alarm. However, a constant or steady light indicates that the MX-601 is being overdriven and that the internal power amplifier is possibly "under powered" for that application. The output level of the MX-601 should be decreased until the LED only flashes intermittently.

Front Panel, Patch Bay & Buss Link

Power Amplifier Input Jack (PWR AMP)
The PWR Amp input jack allows the internal power amplifier to be used with external equipment. When a plug is inserted, the power amp is automatically disconnected from the MX-601 mixer section. The nominal input level is +4dB with an input impedance of 10k ohms.

Effects Return Jack

(EFF/RET) The EFF/RET jack is provided to connect an external effects device to the MX-601. When a plug is inserted the internal reverberation unit is automatically switched out of the MX-601 circuitry, being replaced by the external unit. This jack should be connected to the output of the external effects unit. Nominal input level is -20dB with an impedance of 50k ohms.

Program Output Jack

(PGM OUT) The PGM Out jack is provided for connection to external equalizers and/or power amps, deriving its signal prior to the internal GEQ and power amp. Nominal output level is +4dB with an impedance of 600 ohms.

Graphic Equalizer Input Jack (GEQ) The CEQ input jack allows the graphic equalizer to be used independently of the MX-601 with other external equipment, or the internal power amplifier and the graphic equalizer with external equipment When a plug is inserted, the main mix from the program buss is disconnected from the graphic equalizer and the power amplifier. The nominal input level is +4dB with an input impedance of 50k ohms.

AUX, AUX2, TAPE Input (AUX 1, AUX 2, TAPE IN) -20dB 10k

Program Buss Link Jack

(PGM) (+4dB 22k )

Fold Back Buss Link (FB) +4dB 22k

Reverb/Effects Jack
(EFF) +4dB 22k

Buss

Link

Buss Link Jacks The buss link provides direct access to the PGM, FB, and effects mixing busses, and is provided for easy input expansion with additional MX-601 units or other auxiliary equipment. All jacks have an input level of +4dB with an impedance of 22k ohms.

Effects Output Jack (EFF OUT) The EFF Out jack used in conjunction with the EFF/RET jack allows use of an external effects device in place of the internal reverberation unit. The effects out jack should be connected to the input of the external effect unit. Nominal output level is -10dB with an impedance of 600 ohms.

Graphic Equalizer Output Jack (GEQ OUT) This jack allows the MX-601 and the internal graphic equalizer to be used with an
external power amplifier, or in conjunction with the GEQ in jack, to be used independently of all other MX-601 circuitry. Nominal output level is +4dB with an impedance of 600 ohms.

Foldback Output Jack (FB OUT) This jack is for connection to external power amplifiers and/ or equalizers for the on-stage monitoring system. Nominal output level is +4dB with an impedance of 600 ohms. If the internal power amp and equalizer are to be used for the on-stage monitor system, the FB output should be connected to the CEQ input jack.

Recording Output RCA Jack (REC OUT) The Rec Out jack obtains its signal prior to the program master output, and is intended for connection to external recording equipment Nominal output level is -10dB with an impedance of 1k ohms.

Rear Panel
Power Switch (POWER) The power switch is a threeposition type with the middle position being the "off" position. The MX-601 should be operated in the switch position which produces the lowest amount of system hum.
Cord Wrap The cord wrap is provided for convenient storage of the power cord when the MX-601 is not in use Caution - The power cord should always be completely removed from the cord wrap prior to operation of the unit. This will insure maximum cooling of the MX-601 For the same reason, adequate clearance should be maintained between the rear panel and any other surface (4-6 inches should do) The vents on the bottom and top of the MX-601 are also provided for convection cooling These vents should be kept clear and open Failure to do so may cause thermal shut-down of the unit.

Phantom Power Switches

(PHANTOM CH5, CH6)

The Phantom power switch on both 5 and 6 input channels permits the user to supply 40V DC through the input connectors to a condenser microphone. If phantom power is not required, the switch must be in the "off" position. Speaker Jacks (SPEAKERS) The speaker outputs are standard 1/4" phone jacks wired in parallel. Speaker cables (recommend at least #18 gauge wire) should be connected between the MX-601 and the speaker system prior to applying power to the unit. Caution - The MX-601 should never be operated into less than a 2 ohm speaker load:
Earth Terminal (GND)
AC Fuse

AC Power Cord The power cord is the three-wire type with proper grounding facilities. Caution - The ground pin should not be removed under any
circumstances. If the MX-601 must be used without proper grounding facilities, a suitable grounding adapter should be utilized. Operation of the MX-601 with proper grounding techniques will result in less system noise and greatly reduced shock hazard.

Warning - To avoid possible equipment damage and/or personnel injury, the fuse should always be replaced with same type and rating. Using improper fuses will also void the warranty The MX-601 should always be disconnected from AC outlet prior to changing fuses If fuse repeatedly fails, the unit should be referred to qualified service personnel for repair.

Connection Examples
Low Z input should be connected with low impedance (50 ohm ~ 600 ohm) microphone

SUB MIXER (MX-601) Built in Power Amplifier for

Foldback
From Speaker Jack on Rear Panel

WIRELESS TUNER such as WT-740U and WT-840U

From Speaker Jack on Rear Panel

Line Out
KEYBOARD

Line Out

CASSETTE TAPE DECK for recording

MUSICAL INSTRUMENT

SPEAKER SYSTEM

MAIN SPEAKER SYSTEM

for foldback

Input Connections
Generally speaking, there are two rules to follow when connecting equipment outputs to the inputs of other equipment. 1. Properly match the impedances of the outputs and inputs. 2. Connect low impedance outputs to high impedance inputs. It goes without saying that not only input and output impedance matching but also level matching should be taken into consideration. Each input channel of the MX-601 is provided with an input TRIM control, so the usable signal level range is very wide. Input impedances and levels are shown in the following table.

INPUT SPECIFICATIONS
CONNECTION INPUT ACTUAL LOAD IMPEDANCE
OPEN

FOR USE WITH NOMINAL

50 to 250 MICROPHONES

TRIM POSITION
0 -30 0 -30

SENSITIVITY (PGM OUTPUT LEVEL +4dB)

-55dBm (1.38mV)

MAX BEFORE CLIP INPUT LEVEL

-34dBm (15mV)

CONNECTOR

CH1

LOW Z

XLR TYPE NC3F

-16dBm (123mV) -35dBm (13.8mV)

+4dBm (1.23V)

+ 1.7dB (0.94V)

CH6

HIGH Z

50k

50k OR LOWER IMP LINES

10k OR

-14dBm (150mV)
PHONE JACK +20dB (7.75V) -2dBm (0.61V) PHONE JACK

AUX (1~2)

10k.

LOWER IMP, LINES

50k OR LOWER IMP, LINES 50k OR LOWER IMP, LINES

-20dBm (77.5mV)

EFF/RET

50k

-20dBm (77.5mV)

-2dBm (0.61V)

PHONE JACK

GEQ

50k

+4dBm (1.23V)

PHONE JACK

PWR/AMP

10k

10k OR LOWER IMP 10k OR LOWER IMP, LINES

+4dBm (1.23V)

PHONE JACK

TAPE

10k

-20dBm (77.5mV)

-2dBm (0.61V)

PCA PIN JACK

*Sensitivity is the level required to produce a program out level of +4dBm. *0dBm is referenced to 0.775V RMS. All XLR Type connectors are electronic balanced. Phone jack is unbalanced.
If the line going from one piece of equipment to another is long (more than 5m), we recommend that balanced outputs be connected to balanced inputs.

As is described in the beginning of the Operating Instructions Manual, the connectors of the MX-601 are wired as follows: Pin 1 is ground (shield). Pin 2 is cold (low, minus). Pin 3 is hot (high, plus).

How to get a good mix

Before connecting other equipment to Powered mixer, check the impedance and level of both. If the impedances and levels do not match, mixing will be very difficult and the S/N ratio will also be adversely affected.
Each input channel of the MX-601 is provided with a TRIM control. Thorough understanding of the function of a TRIM control will make mixing easier.

Trim Control

Input

HEAD AMP

Output

The function of the TRIM control is to control the negative feedback volume of the head-amp so that the gain of the head-amp can also be changed. Because of this, enough dynamic range, even for high level signals is ensured. Also, the S/N ratio will be better by decreasing the gain of the head-amp.

For example, a keyboard, a musical instrument and a dynamic microphone with output levels of -10dBm, -20dBm and -40dBm respectively are connected to the MX-601.

If the trim control is set as shown in the left figure, the input level controls can be set to the same position.

The input level controls are used in general between -5 and -15. The peak indicator LED illuminates if the head amplifier or equalizer is clipping. The gain of the head-amplifier must be decreased by turning the trim control counterclockwise.

Key Board in -10dBm level Musical Instrument in -20dBm level Dynamic Microphone in -40dBm level

Fault Protection Table

Fault

Protection

Indication
Compressor LED illuminates

Action

Restoration
Automatic restoration after normal loads are obtained

Excessive current due to overloads

Current limiter activates at less than 1 ohm.

Remove excessive lords. Minimum speaker loads 2 ohms Check speaker lines/ systems for shorts

Short circuits (less than 0.4-ohm)

Current limiter activates, input signal is lowered, unit shuts down. Input signal is lowered Unit shuts down

Amp protection LED illuminates

Turn off power switch Turn on into operational loads.

Temperature rise of heat sink (more than 105C)

DC drift

Amp protection LED illuminates.

Check for adequate ventilation.

Automatic restoration after temperature lowers (to 75C - 95C)

Input signal is lowered Unit shuts down.

Amp protection LED illuminates

Refer to qualified service personnel.

Automatic restoration after normal bias is regained

Block and Level Diagrams

BLOCK DIAGRAMS

LEVEL DIAGRAM

Specifications
MIXER SECTION Frequency Response
+0, -3dB 30Hz~20kHz (HIGH Zinput TRIM at "-30" position.)

Total Harmonic Distortion

0.05% +4dBm at 1kHz.

Hum and Noise (Open)

Equivalent Input Noise Equivalent Input Noise All level Controls Minimum -130dBm (20Hz~20kHz) -133dBm (IHF A) -102dBm (IHF A) -93dBm (IHF A) -72dBm (IHF A)

INPUT to FB out INPUT to REC out INPUT to GEQ out AUX to PGM out TAPE to PGM out EFF/RET to PGM out

59dB 45dB 59dB 24dB 24dB 24dB

Equalization
32Hz12dB Peaking 63Hz12dB Peaking 125Hz12dB Peaking 250kHz12dB Peaking 500Hz12dB Peaking 1kHz12dB Peaking 2kHz12dB Peaking 4kHz12dB Peaking 8kHz12dB Peaking 16kHz12dB Peaking

PGM Master at MAX and all

input level controls minimum

PGM Master at MAX and one

input level control at MAX

Maximum Voltage Gain

INPUT to PGM out INPUT to EFF out 59dB 45dB

Peak Indicators
Red LED on each input channel LED's turn on at 3dB

below clipping. INPUT SPECIFICATIONS

OUTPUT SPECIFICATIONS

POWER AMPLIFIER SECTION Frequency Response

+0, -1dB 5Hz to 40kHz (200W RMS 4 )

Damping Factor
Greater than 200 (1kHz 4 )

Rated Power & Load

300W RMS (2 ) 200W RMS (4 ) 120W RMS (8 )

Input Sensitivity
+4dBm (1.23V)

Power Output at Clipping

1% THD, 1kHz
348W RMS (2 ) 238W RMS (4 ) 140W RMS (8 )

Input Impedance
10k

Total Harmonic Distortion

Less than 0.1% (200mW~200W RMS, 20Hz~20kHz)

Output Connector Phone Jack x2 Dimensions

588(W)x265(H)x302(D) (23.15x10.43x11.89) inch.

Typically below 0.05% Compresser Dynamic Range Greater than 26dB Hum and Noise
At least 110dB S/N ratio, 20Hz~20kHz

Weight
18.5kg (40.79 Ibs)

*0dBm is referenced to 0.775V RMS. *Specifications are subject to change without notice.
9

At least 113dB S/N ratio IHF-A weighted

Characteristic Diagrams s
HIGH Z IN. TRIM/MIN. & INPUT EQ GEQ

POWER AMP POWER BAND WIDTH

POWER AMP TOTAL HARMONIC DISTORTION

POWER AMP COMPRESSOR

REVERBERATION FREQUENCY RESPONSE

Appearance

10