DR66 & DR128 Digital Audio Mix Processors INSTALLER USER GUIDE Publication AP4333
Limited One Year Warranty This product has been manufactured in the UK by ALLEN & HEATH and is warranted to be free from defects in materials or workmanship for period of one year from the date of purchase by the original owner. To ensure a high level of performance and reliability for which this equipment has been designed and manufactured, read this User Guide before operating.
Introduction This user guide refers to the Allen & Heath DR128 and DR66 digital mix processors loaded with Version 2 or later operating software. Units loaded with earlier versions can be updated to take advantage of the features available from Version 2. Further information and the software itself can be downloaded from our Web site: http://www.allen-heath.com This guide is intended for the technical engineer in charge of the installation and configuration of the audio system.
Important Safety Instructions WARNINGS - Read the following before proceeding: CAUTION ATTENTION: RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE – NE PAS OUVRIR Read instructions: Retain these safety and operating instructions for future reference. Heed all warnings printed here and on the equipment. Ensure that the operating instructions printed in this user guide are adhered to. Removing the cover: Operate the unit with its top cover correctly fitted.
The Mains Voltage Setting Before starting check that the mains voltage setting on the DR unit is correctly set for the local mains supply. Check that the correct mains lead with moulded mains plug and IEC connector has been supplied with your unit. Read and understand the warnings and instructions printed on the facing page and on the rear panel. It is advised to turn connected power amplifiers down or off before switching the DR unit on or off.
Welcome to the DR Series DR66 6 In 6 Out Digital Audio Mix Processor DR128 12 In 8 Out Digital Audio Mix Processor The DR66 and DR128 are part of the Allen & Heath Contractor Series designed for installed sound such as public announcement, conference and background music systems in hotels, restaurants, government buildings, sports and leisure facilities and so on.
Main Features • DR66 Desktop or 19” rack mount DR128 1U 2U Removable rack ears and feet for rack, plinth or freestanding operation. • Balanced XLR Mic/Line inputs 2 8 Built in preamp stage for directly plugging in microphones and line equipment. Internal links for phantom power and rear panel gain trimmers. • Unbalanced dual RCA phono Line inputs 4 4 Sums L+R to convert the stereo source for typical mono zoning application. Internal trim to match connected source.
System Block Diagram 8 DR66 & DR128 Installer User Guide
Basic Principles Audio Inputs and Outputs The DR66 and DR128 audio mix processors accept any level of microphone or line level input signals. These are pre-amplified and adjusted to the correct internal operating level required by the processor using the rear panel and internal gain trimmers and pad jumper links. If required phantom power can be independently selected for each mic input using internal links.
Front Panel 2 1 9 4 3 1 5 6 7 8 3 4 2 5 8 6 9 7 1 Ident Blocks Space is provided for writing on or adhering a label to identify the function of the associated front panel key. The installer can remove the DR128 front panel plate so that the label can be fitted behind the window. Do this by removing the four corner hex fixing screws. A template with instructions is provided in this user guide and in electronic format with the WinDR software.
6 ◄ESC Key Press and hold this key while in normal mode to view the operating software version number. Press ESC while in Setup mode to exit a menu or return to normal operation. 7 ►SET Key This key only functions in Setup mode. Press to advance the menu while setting up a parameter.
Rear Panel 11 12 15 14 13 16 11 16 12 14 18 19 20 17 15 17 20 19 13 18 11 POWER On/Off Switches mains power to the unit. Make sure that WinDR editing software running on connected PCs is shut down first before switching the unit on or off. WinDR should be started after the unit has completed its boot up routine to ensure communication is established. 12 MAINS INPUT Fused IEC mains socket with integral voltage selector for the internal power supply.
17 REMOTE Connections This provides opto-isolated switch closure inputs and opto-isolated output lines for remote control, for example using wall plates for volume and patch selection. The DR66 uses a 25-pin D-type female socket providing 12 inputs and 4 outputs. It also includes the battery input described above. The DR128 uses a 9-pin D-type female socket providing 8 inputs. It does not provide any outputs. The remote functions are assigned in a similar way to the front panel keys and indicators.
Installation This section describes how the unit should be installed into the system furniture, connection to the mains and battery backup supplies, and cable plugging and routing. Rack or Desk Mount The unit is shipped with its rack ears and desk feet fitted. To 19” rack mount, secure the unit into the rack using 4x M6 bolts with protective cup washers. These are usually supplied with the rack system. The rack should provide a minimum side to side opening of 445mm.
Connecting Mains Power Before starting check that the mains voltage setting on the DR unit is correctly set for the local mains supply. Check that the correct mains lead with moulded mains plug and IEC connector has been supplied with your unit. It is advised to turn connected power amplifiers down or off before switching the DR unit on or off. Ensure that the IEC mains plug is pressed fully into the rear panel socket before switching on.
Earthing The connection to mains earth (ground) in an audio system is important for two reasons: Safety - To protect the operator from a high voltage shock associated with the AC mains supply feeding the system. Audio Performance - To shield the audio signals from interference pickup and to minimise the effects of ground loops which result in audible hum and buzz.
Configuring the Hardware Once the system is installed and plugged together the DR can be configured and the levels calibrated according to the application. Much of the preparation could be done at the earlier planning stage with the WinDR editing software configured off-line and the settings saved as a configuration file to be loaded into the unit later. The DR is shipped with a Default configuration already loaded so that on-site testing and calibration can proceed before the PC is connected.
Calibration Adjustments Available DR66 Parameter Adjust Factory Default Setting Mic Input Gain 1-2 Internal trimmer Gain minimum Fully anti-clockwise Mic/Line Pad 1-2 Pair of internal links Pad disabled (Mic) Links fitted Mic Phantom Power 1-2 Internal link Phantom Power On Link fitted Line Input Level 3-6 Internal link -10dBV sensitivity Link not fitted Line Output Level 1-6 Internal link +4dBu nominal Link not fitted DR128 Parameter Adjust Factory Default Setting Mic Input Gai
Labelling the Function Keys DR66 Write-on blocks are provided above each of the 8 function keys. Use permanent pen or pre-prepared adhesive labels to identify the key functions. A log sheet to keep a record of the functions is provided at the rear of this user guide. DR128 The front panel facia plate can be removed so that a label can be fitted behind the window above the 12 function keys. This ensures that the key identification is tamperproof.
XLR Mic/Line Input Connections You can plug in microphone or line level sources. Internal trimmers and jumpers are provided for setting gain, attenuator pad and phantom power. Use balanced connections wherever possible. If you are plugging in unbalanced sources wire the plug as shown on the right. Use high grade shielded cable for audio connections.
Calibrating Mic/Line Input Gain DR66 Adjust the internal calibration trimmer to set the input gain to match the connected source. DR128 Use a small flat bladed screwdriver to adjust the recessed rear panel gain trimmer. It is necessary to assign the front panel LED indicators as input signal meters before setting gain. The default configuration loaded into the DR when shipped does this. Alternatively, connect a PC and use the WinDR System Manager application to view the signal meters.
XLR Output Connections Differentially balanced, low impedance line level outputs are provided on XLR. These are capable of driving long cable runs to the amplifier racks without loss or interference pickup. Use balanced connections wherever possible. To drive unbalanced equipment inputs wire the plug as shown on the right. Use high grade shielded cables for audio connections.
Remote Switches The DR66 provides 12 opto-isolated remote switch inputs on a 25-way D-type female socket. The DR128 provides 8 inputs on a 9-way D-type female socket. These are typically used to connect momentary action switch contact closures to control the DR unit if required by the application. For example, simple up/down volume and patch select controls could be mounted on a remote wall plate.
Remote Switch Examples The first shows the DR128 wired to two switches providing a remote wall plate volume up/down function. The second shows the same wall plate duplicated so that the volume can be controlled from two or more positions. Simply wire the switches in parallel. Remote Outputs The DR66 provides 4 opto-isolated output control lines. None are available on the DR128.
Fitting the DSPx Expander Option The DSPx option card is available from Allen & Heath. It plugs into a slot on the CPU motherboard and provides additional DSP processing power. One card can be fitted to the DR66, two to the DR128. Each card adds two PE’s (processing engines) which can be loaded with additional resource racks in the usual way. Configuration of these resources is carried out using the WinDR System Manager application running on a PC.
Configuring the Software Once the hardware is plugged and calibrated the DR resource architecture, settings and patch memories can be configured using the WinDR System Manager application running on a PC. Much of the preparation could be done at the earlier planning stage by editing the settings off-line and saving them to a configuration file to be loaded into the unit later.
Installing the WinDR System Manager The WinDR self-extracting .exe file for PC’s running Windows® is supplied on CD ROM with the DR unit, or can be downloaded from the Allen & Heath Web site. Run this file to install this on your PC. Check the Web site for the latest version and installation instructions.
Using WinDR The WinDR display has three main windows. The DR Unit Simulation Window presents a picture of the front panel controls and display together with a set of controls and indicators representing the remote connections. You can click on the key icons to simulate and test the actions of the soft key and LED assignment, ideal for configuring the system off-line. This window is only available when you work off-line. The Input and Output Channel Windows show the controls for each channel.
Configuring Control There are several ways to control the DR unit. Once the system is configured, the installation PC can be disconnected and the DR operated on a day-to-day basis using the front panel keys, remote keys, networked computer system or industry standard remote controller.
Using the DR The DR is designed to be configured by the installer and used by the day-to-day operator. The installer or engineer in charge of the system is expected to have a good audio system knowledge and technical capability and is provided with a powerful set of editing tools to set and maintain the system architecture and parameters to best suit the specific installation. Once configured these settings are saved to the unit and archived to disk.
If the current configuration has had only partial patches recalled or available then the display indicates this as shown here. ‘00’ and ‘No Patch’ shows that no full patches have been recalled. However, ‘25’ shows that patch 25 was the last partial patch recalled. 00/25 No Patch Mon 19:03:26 01/00 Daytime If the current configuration has only had full patches recalled or there are no partial patches available then the display indicates as shown here.
Mic 1 Lev 45 ████▌_____ ↑ Mic 1 Lev 45 ████▌_____ ↓ Level Up Here, the function key has been assigned to increment the level of the associated input, output channel or matrix crosspoint when pressed. Each press increases the level and the displayed bar by a value of 5. Holding down the key automatically scrolls the value up. A minimum and/or maximum value may be assigned.
The Function LEDs The DR66 and DR128 function LEDs above the function keys may be independently assigned by the installer according to application required. The switch and LED functions do not need to be related. For example, the LED may be assigned as an input channel signal meter while its associated key is a level select, or the switch could be unassigned while its LED provides a status indication.
The Setup Keys The front panel setup keys SETUP, ◄ESC, and SET► work with the ▲ and ▼ keys to navigate and select the menu parameters available. With the increased functionality of Version 2 DR software and more flexible WinDR PC configuration these setup functions have been reduced to just LCD contrast, change the clock or change the day of week. This prevents the day-to-day operator tampering with the system settings.
*** SETUP *** *1 LCD Contrast *1 LCD Contrast Contrast: 08 *** SETUP *** *2 Clock *2 Clock TIME: 09:55:17 *2 Clock TIME: 10:55:17 LCD Contrast Scroll to this menu item and press ►SET to enter the next screen. Press the ▲ and ▼ keys to increase or decrease the display contrast as preferred. Values range from 01 (light) to 16 (dark). Press ◄ESC to exit without change. Press ►SET to accept and return to the setup menu. Clock Adjust The second menu item is time adjustment for the system clock.
Appendix A : Earlier Version 1 Operating Software This user guide refers to the newer Version 2 operating software for the DR66 and DR128. The DR unit hardware is the same for both versions (except for SysNet). The last release of Version 1 at the time of print was V1.83. This can be loaded into the DR unit in place of earlier versions or the later Version 2. Version V2.00 and later software releases are not compatible with V1.83 and earlier.
Version 1 Menu Map (Reprinted here for reference. Not the same as Version 2) Menu Items Menu Settings 19 Set Security [Password] [On/ Off] 18 New [Current [New Password] 17 LCD Contrast Contrast [0..10] 16 Clock Time [HH:MM:SS] 15 Day of Week [Day] 14 Remote Keys Key Number [1..8] 13 Soft Keys Key Number [1..12] Function - Unused - Level Control - Patch Change Function - Unused - Level Change - Patch Change - Patch Select 12 Matrix I/P Channel [1..12] O/P Channel [1..
Version 1 – Resetting the Password (Not available in Version 2) The Front Panel Setup Menu can be password protected to prevent unauthorised tampering. If you lose or forget this password it can be reset using the procedure below. First remove power from the DR and then remove the top cover. Locate and fit the password reset link on the CPU circuit board. The link is marked JP2 on the circuit board. Then turn on the DR unit again.
Appendix B : Technical Specification Headroom +12 or +16dB (according to operating level) Max Output +16dBu (0 or+4dBu nominal operating level) Frequency Response 20Hz - 20kHz +0/-1dB (+4dBu into 600 ohms) THD 0.
Appendix C : DR66 Architects Specification The unit shall be a digital mix processor with 6 analogue inputs and 6 analogue outputs. The unit shall have a full crosspoint matrix, comprising 36 points, allowing any input, or combination of inputs, to be routed to any output or combination of outputs. All crosspoints shall have a variable level. The 2 mic/line inputs and 6 line level outputs shall be on balanced XLRs. The 4 stereo line inputs shall sum to mono and be on RCA phono connectors.
Appendix D : DR128 Architects Specification The unit shall be a digital mix processor with 12 analogue inputs and 8 analogue outputs. The unit shall have a full crosspoint matrix, comprising 96 points, allowing any input, or combination of inputs, to be routed to any output or combination of outputs. All crosspoints shall have a variable level. The 8 mic/line inputs and 8 line level outputs shall be on balanced XLRs with level trims.
Installation Log Sheet SHEET : of INSTALLATION : DATE : CONFIGURATION FILE : PATCH : NOTES : 42 DR66 & DR128 Installer User Guide
DR128 Front Panel Label Template This file is provided with the Allen & Heath WinDR software. ® File: DR128label.dot template for Microsoft Word application. Edit the text boxes within the Word application and print the label. Alternatively, photocopy the template shown here and write in the names. Add install information across the top if required. Cut out along the outline. Overall size including tab is 261x21mm. Remove the DR128 front panel facia using a 2mm hex driver.
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