Operating Instruction Manual

TOA POWERED MIXER

Model MX-106R

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

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-106R.

Various descriptions are applied, depending on each manufacturer. In our

Operating and Instruction Manual explanation of components and f unctions is made according to our usage for them.

4

5

6

7

8

2

2

3

9

10

10

— 1 —

General Description

The MX-106R 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-106R. The rugged construction and specialized packaging ensure optimum performance and reliability under even the most demanding "on the road" applications.

The MX-106R 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 into 4, and 300 into a 2 ohm 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 3-band equalization, a "pre" foldback send, a "post" reverb/effects send, and program level control.

The master control section features a one-octave (9-band) graphic equalizer, high and low equalizer control of an internal reverberation unit, auxiliary input controls, fluorescent high-intensity 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)

3. 9-band graphic equalizer w/bypass switch

4. Auto Comp compression circuitry w/indicator

5. Built-in spring reverberation unit

6. High intensity fluorescent bar graph metering

7. Power amp protection circuitry w/indicator

8. Complete patch bay w/buss link

9. Aux input w/pan and level controls

10. Reverb-effects return to PGM and FB

11. Independent foldback mix

Each Channel

1. Input trim control w/ LED peak indicator

2. Pre EQ foldback send

3. 3-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.

High Equalizer Control

(HIGH EQ)

The high EQ control alters the high frequency response of the input channel, providing ±13dB at 10kHz, and ±15dB at 20kHz of continuously variable active shelving equalization. The "0" detented position provides flat audio response.

Middle Equalizer Control

(MID EQ)

The mid EQ control provides

±15dB of continuously variable active peaking equalization at

2kHz. and has a flat audio response when set to the "0" detented position.

Low Equalizer Control

(LOW EQ)

The low EQ control provides

±13dB at 100Hz and ±15dB at

50Hz of continuously variable active shelving equalization.

The "0" detented position provides flat audio response.

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.

Input Level Control

(INPUT 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 "10" 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 a d j u s t s the gain of the head-amp stage of the associated channel, providing

39dB of gain control. When t h e trim control is set to the "10" position, the nominal i n p u t levels of the low-Z and high-Z inputs are –55dB and –35dB respectively. At the "0" position the levels are –16dB and +4dB.

The trim of each channel should be adjusted so that the peak LED j u s t begins to l i g h t , or only flashes occasionally. This will ensure lowest distortion levels and optimum signal to noise ratio.

Foldback Master Control (FB)

The FB master control a d j u s t s the overall combined signal level of the six independent channel foldback sends, and thus the level of the e n t i r e onstage m o n i t o r mix.

Reverb/Effects to Foldback

Control (REV/EFF TO FB)

This control a d j u s t s the a m o u n t of r e v e r b / e f f e c t s signal t h a t is returned to the foldback buss and t h u s the level of reverb/ e f f e c t s contained in the on-stage m o n i t o r mix.

Reverb/Effects Send Control

(REV/EFF SEND)

This control a d j u s t s the overall signal level of the e f f e c t s mix t h a t is delivered to the internal reverberation u n i t , or to an external e ffe c t s device through the effects o u t p u t . The send control works in c o n j u n c t i o n 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 Low Equalizer

Control

(REV LOW EQ)

The low EQ control alters the low frequency response of the reverberation signal. The "0" detented position provides fl a t audio response.

Graphic Equalizer

(EQUALIZATION)

The graphic equalizer is 1/1 octave with 9 independent active bands ( f i l t e r s ) , providing

12dB of boost or cut at each center frequency. The "0" detented position provides fl a t 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 "10". When a plug is inserted into the high – Z i n p u t , 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 Level Control (AUX)

This control sets the overall level of the Aux input signal.

Buss Link Jack

(BUSS LINK)

Patching Jack

(PATCH BAY/IN)

Patching Jack

(PATCH BAY/OUT)

Aux Panpot (AUX PAN)

This control assigns the auxiliary input signal (a tapedeck, etc., connected to the aux input j a c k s ) 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 i n p u t signal level of the power a m p l i f i e r when clipping occurs in the output stage. Frequent flashing of the LED is not reason for alarm.

However, a constant or steady light indicates t h a t the MX-106R is being overdriven and t h a t the internal power amplifier is possibily "under powered" for that application. The o u t p u t level of the MX-106R should be decreased u n t i l the LED only flashes i n t e r m i t t e n t l y .

Reverberation High Equalizer

Control

(REV HIGH EQ)

The high EQ control alters the high frequency response of the reverberation signal. The "0" detented position provides flat audio response.

Graphic Equalizer In/Out

Switch (IN/OUT)

The i n / o u t switch enables comparison between a flat response

( o u t ) and the equalized response

( i n ) . The "out" position completely removes the equalizer from the MX-106R circuitry.

Fluorescent Bargraph Peak

Meters (PGM/FB)

The high intensity meters enable visual monitoring of the program and foldback output signal levels.

Power Amp Protection

Indicator (PROTECT)

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 drif ted to the speaker o u t p u t s . If the LED should light, speaker wiring and ambient t e m p e r a t u r e of the MX-106R should be checked. If the LED remains lighted, the unit should be referred to qualified service personnel for repair.

Note:

The MX-106R protection circuitry will (1) detect 'faulty conditions' w i t h i n the power ampl i f i e r , (2) give a visual indication, and (3) automatically shut down u n t i l the fa u l t condition is alleviated. This special c i r c u i t r y ensures maximum reliability and v i r t u a l l y eliminates equipment damage due to unsafe or f a u l t conditions. Please refer to f a u l t protection table on page 7 for f u l l explanation of this i m p o r t a n t feature.

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-106R mixer section. The nominal input level is +4dB with an input impedance of 10k 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.

Effects Return Jack (EFF/RET)

The EFF/RET j a c k is provided to connect an external effects device to the MX-106R. When a plug is inserted the internal reverberation unit is automatically switched out of the MX-

106R circuitry, being replaced by the external unit. This j a c k should be connected to the output of the external ef f ects u n i t .

Nominal input level is –20dB with an impedance of 50k ohms.

Graphic Equalizer Input Jack

(GEQ)

The GEQ i n p u t jack allows the graphic equalizer to be used independently of the MX-106R 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 1, AUX 2 Input Jack

(AUX 1, AUX 2)

–20dB 10k

Program Buss Link Jack

(PGM) (+4dB 22k

)

Fold Back Buss Link (FB)

(+4dB 22k

Reverb/Effects Buss Link Jack

(EFF) +4dB 22k

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-106R 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 ef f ects 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-106R and the internal graphic equalizer to be used with an external power amplifier, or in conjunction with the GEQ in j a c k , to be used independently of all other

MX-106R circuitry. Nominal output level is +4dB with an impedance of 600 ohms

Rear Panel

Power Switch (POWER)

The power switch is a threeposition type with the middle position being the "off" position.

The MX-106R should be operated in the switch position which produces the lowest amount of system hum.

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-106R and the speaker systems prior to applying power to the unit.

Caution - The MX-106R should never be operated into less than a 2 ohm speaker load.

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-106R must be used without proper grounding facilities, a suitable grounding adapter should be utilized. Operation of the MX-

106R with proper grounding techniques will result in less system noise and greatly reduced shock hazard.

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 onstage monitor system, the FB o u t p u t should be connected to the GEQ input jack.

Recording Output 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.

Earth Terminal (GND)

Cord Wrap

The cord wrap is provided for convenient storage of the power cord when the MX-106R 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-106R. 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-

106R 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.

AC Fuse

Warning - To avoid possible equipment damage and/or personnel i n j u r y , the f use should always be replaced with same type and rating. Using improper fuses will also void the warranty. The MX-106R 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) microphones

WIRELESS TUNER

SUCH AS WT-02,

WT-06

MAIN MIXER (MX-106R)

From Speaker Jack on Rear Panel

KEYBOARD

Line Out

Line Out

MUSICAL INSTRUMENT

MAIN SPEAKER SYSTEM

- 5 -

CASSETTE TAPE DECK

for recording

SPEAKER SYSTEM

for foldback

SUB MIXER (MX-106R)

Built in Power

Amplifier for

Foldback

From Speaker Jack on Rear Panel

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-

106R 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.

CONNECTION INPUT

CH1

CH6

AUX (1~2)

EFF/RET

GEQ

PWR/AMP

LOW Z

HIGH Z

ACTUAL

LOAD

IMPEDANCE

50k

10k

50k

50k

10k

FOR USE

WITH

NOMINAL

INPUT SPECIFICATIONS

TRIM

POSI-

TION

SENSITIVITY

(PGM OUTPUT

LEVEL +4dB)

50

TO 250

MICRO-

PHONES

50k OR

LOWER IMP

LINES

10k

OR

LOWER IMP,

LINES

50k

OR

LOWER IMP,

LINES

50k

OR

LOWER IMP,

LINES

10

0

10

0

-55dBm (1.38mV)

-16dBm (123mV)

-35dBm (13.8mV)

-4dBm (1.23mV)

-20dBm (77.5mV)

+20dBm (77.5mV)

+4dBm (1.23V)

10k OR

LOWER IMP

+4dBm (1.23V)

MAX BEFORE

CLIP INPUT

LEVEL

-34dBm (15mV)

+1.7dB (0.94V)

-14dBm (150mV)

+20dB (7.75V)

-2dBm (0.61V)

-2dBm (0.61V)

CONNECTOR

XLR TYPE NC3F

PHONE JACK

PHONE JACK

PHONE JACK

PHONE JACK

PHONE 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-106R 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 the 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.

Input

Each input channel of the MX-106R is provided with a TRIM control. Thorough understanding of the f unction of a TRIM control will make mixing easier.

Trim Control

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-

106R.

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

The input level controls are used in general between 6 and 8.

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

Fault

Excessive current due to overloads.

Short circuits

(less than 0.4-ohm)

Musical Instrument in

–20dBm level

Protection

Current limiter activates at less than 1 ohm.

Dynamic

Microphone in

–40dBm level

Fault Protection Table

Indication

Action

Compressor

LED illuminates.

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

Amp protection

LED illuminates.

Remove excessive lords.

Minimum speaker loads 2ohm.

Check speaker lines/systems for shorts.

Temperature rise of heat sink

(more than 105° C)

DC drift

Input signal is lowered.

Unit shuts down.

Input signal is lowered.

Unit shuts down.

Amp protection

LED illuminates.

Amp protection

LED illuminates.

Check for adequate ventilation.

Refer to qualif ied service personnel.

Restoration

Automatic restoration a f t e r normal loads are obtained.

Turn off power switch.

Turn on into operational loads.

Automatic restoration a ft e r temperature lowers (to 75° - 95° C)

Automatic restoration a ft e r normal bias is regained.

Block and Level Diagrams

BLOCK DIAGRAMS

LEVEL DIAGRAM

— 8 —

Specifications

MIXER SECTION

Frequency Response

+0, -3dB 30Hz~20kHz (HIGH Z input TRIM at "0" position.)

Total Harmonic Distortion

0.05% +4dBm at 1kHz.

Hum and Noise (Open)

Equivalent Input Noise –130dBm (20Hz ~ 20kHz)

Equivalent Input Noise –133dBm (IHF A)

All level Controls Minimum –102dBm (IHF A)

PGM Master at MAX and all input level controls minimum –93dBm (IHF A)

PGM Master at MAX and one input level control at MAX –72dBm (IHF A)

Maximum Voltage Gain

INPUT to PGM out

INPUT to EFF out

INPUT to FB out

INPUT to REG out

INPUT to GEQ out

AUX to PGM out

EFF/RET to PGM out

59dB

45dB

59dB

45dB

59dB

24dB

24dB

Equalization

63Hz ±12dB Peaking 2kHz ±12dB Peaking

125Hz ±12dB Peaking 4kHz ±12dB Peaking

250kHz ±12dB Peaking 8kHz ±12dB Peaking

500Hz ±12dB Peaking 16kHz ±12dB Peaking

1kHz ±12dB Peaking

Peak Indicators

Red LED on each input channel LED's turn on at 3dB below clipping.

CONNECTION

CH1

CH6

AUX (1~2)

EFF/RET

GEQ

PWR/AMP

INPUT

LOW Z

HIGH Z

——

——

——

——

ACTUAL

LOAD

IMPEDANCE

OPEN

50k

10k

50k

50k

10k

INPUT SPECIFICATIONS

FOR USE

WITH

NOMINAL

50

TO 250

MICRO-

PHONES

50k OR

LOWER IMP

LINES

10k OR

LOWER IMP,

LINES

50k OR

LOWER IMP,

LINES

50k OR

LOWER IMP,

LINES

TRIM

POSI-

TION

10

0

10

0

—

—

—

SENSITIVITY

(PGM OUTPUT

LEVEL +4dB)

+20dBm (77.5mV)

+4dBm (1.23V)

10k OR

LOWER IMP

—

+4dBm (1.23V)

CONNECTION

PGM

EFF

GEQ

FB

REG

ACTUAL LOAD

IMPEDANCE

600

600

600

600

1k

MAX BEFORE

CLIP INPUT

LEVEL

+1.7dB (0.94V)

+20dB (7.75V)

———

———

OUTPUT SPECIFICATIONS

FOR USE WITH

NOMINAL

NOMINAL

OUTPUT LEVEL

MAX. BEFORE

CLIP

600

OR HIGHER

IMP. LINES

600

OR HIGHER

IMP. LINES

600

OR HIGHER

IMP. LINES

600

OR HIGHER

IMP. LINES

1k OR HIGHER

IMP. LINES

+4dB (1.23V)

+10dB (775V)

+4dB (1.23V)

+4dB (1.23V)

–10dB (7.75V)

+20dB (7.75V)

+8dB (1.9V)

+20dB (7.75V)

+20dB (7.75V)

+8dB (1.9V)

POWER AMPLIFIER SECTION

Frequency Response

+0, –1dB 5Hz to 40kHz (200W RMS 4

Rated Power & Load

300W RMS (2

) 200W RMS (4

)

) 120W RMS (8

)

Power Output at Clipping

1% THD, 1kHz

348W RMS (2 ) 238W RMS (4 ) 140W RMS (8

)

Total Harmonic Distortion

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

Typically below 0.05%

Compresser Dynamic Range

Greater than 26dB

Hum and Noise

At least 110dB S/N ratio, 20Hz~20kHz

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

Damping Factor

Greater than 200 (1kHz 4

Input Sensitivity

+4dBm (1.23V)

Input Impedance

10k

Output Connector

Phone Jack X2

Power Requirement

600 W 120V AC 50/60Hz

Dimensions

5 8 5 ( W ) × 3 3 3 ( H ) × 3 0 2 ( D ) (23.03×13.11×11.89) inch

Weight

21 kg (46.3 l b s )

*0dBm is referenced to 0.775V RMS.

*Specifications are subject to change without notice.

CONNECTOR

XLR TYPE NC3F

PHONE JACK

PHONE JACK

PHONE JACK

PHONE JACK

PHONE JACK

CONNECTOR

PHONE JACK

PHONE JACK

PHONE JACK

PHONE JACK

PHONE JACK

Characteristics Diagrams

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

302 11.89"

585 23.03"

TOA ELECTRIC CO., LTD.

KOBE, JAPAN

Printed in Japan

133-02-690-80