Recording & Mixing Console Operator’s Manual 10-01-13 Written for Automated Processes Incorporated by Dan Pfeifer 2013 1
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual Table of Contents 1.0 Overview 2.0 Input Channels 1-4 2.1 Preamp 2.2 Filter, Routing, and Meter 2.2.1 High-Pass Filter 2.2.2 Compressor Routing 2.2.3 Insert 2.2.4 Output Routing and Pan-Pot 2.2.5 Meter and Meter Routing 2.3 Fader, Mute, Solo, and Solo-Safe 2.4 550A Equalizer – 500 Slot 2.4.1 550A Discrete 3-Band Equalizer 2.4.2 API 500 Series Slot 2.5 Auxiliary/Cue Sends 2.5.1 Mono Aux Sends 1/2 2.5.2 Stereo Aux Sends 3/4 2.5.3 Stereo Cue Sends 2.5.4 Aux Pre Jumper 2.
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual 6.0 527 Compressors 6.1 Input Channel Routing 6.2 Program Bus Routing & Link 6.3 Compressor Controls 6.3.1 Compressor Routing Controls 6.3.2 Compressor Configuration Controls 6.3.3 Compressor Parameter Controls 6.3.4 Gain Reduction Meter 7.0 Auxiliary Masters 7.1 Auxiliary Master Controls 7.1.1 Aux Master Solos 7.2 Auxiliary Master Rear Panel Connections 8.0 Cue Master 8.1 Cue Master Controls 8.1.1 Cue Master Solo 8.2 Cue Master Rear Panel Connections 9.0 Talkback 9.
API “The BOX” APPENDIX A.1 A.2 A.
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual Important Safety Instructions 1. Please read these instructions 2. Keep this Information in a safe place 3. Do not use this console near water 4. Clean only with a dry cloth 5. Do not block any ventilation openings 6. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other devices (including the power supply) that produce heat 7. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding type AC plug 8.
API “The BOX” 1.0 Operator’s Manual Overview Building on API's rich heritage of extremely high-quality recording consoles, we introduce “The BOX,” a small-format recording/mixing console designed for professional project studios, home studios, and production facilities of all kinds.
API “The BOX” • • • • • Operator’s Manual PFL, AFL, and solo-in-place solo modes with stereo solo bus Full-featured monitor section that supports two stereo monitor systems Talkback system Comprehensive rear panel connections with balanced inputs and outputs Integrated power supply Console Layout For recording, “The BOX” provides four (4) input channels. Channels 1 & 2 are equipped with preamp, filter, built-in 550A equalizer, insert, assignable compression, and output routing.
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual For mixing, “The BOX” provides sixteen (16) dedicated summing input channels, as well as the four (4) input channels, for a total of twenty (20) channels. Accordingly, all channels, input and summing, have a fader, mute, pan-pot, program bus assignment, insert, solo, solo safe, and aux/cue sends. Additionally, summing inputs have a “0dB” switch that bypasses the fader and delivers the input signal to the pan-pot at unity gain.
API “The BOX” 2.0 Operator’s Manual Input Channels 1-4 “The BOX” provides four (4) input channels that are designed primarily for recording, but can be used as additional channels while mixing. All four channels are identical except for equalization. Channels 1 & 2 have a built-in 550A equalizer. Channels 3 & 4 have a 500 series slot, instead of the built-in EQ. The slot can accept any 500 series module that conforms to the VPR 500 Alliance standards. http://apiaudio.com/vpr_alliance.
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual The basic signal flow through the input channels module is as follows: Preamplifier ⇒ compressor ⇒ EQ/500 slot ⇒ insert ⇒ fader/mute ⇒ filter ⇒ output The compressor can be moved to after the insert (COMP POST) to yield: Preamplifier ⇒ EQ/500 slot ⇒ insert ⇒ compressor ⇒ fader/mute ⇒ filter ⇒ output Input Channel Sections 10
API “The BOX” 2.1 Operator’s Manual Preamplifier The preamplifier section of the input channels provides a fully featured input stage that’s identical to the channel preamps in the API 1608. The preamp can accept the following input signals: • Microphone • Instrument • Line Microphone Input: Accepts balanced, low-impedance, microphonelevel signals from the MIC INPUT female XLR connector on the rear panel.
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual Preamp Controls: No switches engaged: LINE INPUT is selected by default 48V (Phantom Power): Applies 48 volt phantom power to the MIC INPUT XLR connector for use with condenser mics and active DI boxes • Illuminates in red when engaged (Phase Reverse): Inverts the polarity of the signal arriving at the MIC INPUT and LINE INPUT • Illuminates when engaged • Does not affect the instrument input PAD: Attenuates the MIC INPUT by 20dB and the LINE INPUT by 6dB • Illuminates whe
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual Rear Panel Preamp Connections All four input channels have the same preamp input connections on the rear panel.
API “The BOX” 2.2 Operator’s Manual Filter, Routing, and Meter Input channels provide a 50Hz high-pass filter, an 8-segment LED full-scale meter, and several routing possibilities. Routing possibilities include: • Compressor assignment to input channels • Compressor placement in signal flow • Insert • Direct output routing • Program bus assignment • Meter routing Filter, Routing, and Meter Controls: 2.2.
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual 2.2.2 Compressor Routing “The BOX” includes two API 527 compressor/limiters in the center section of the console. These compressors are assigned to the program bus by default for mixing, but can be routed to the input channels while recording. To use the compressors while recording, they need to be assigned to the input channels. Compressor 1 can be assigned to input channels 1 or 3. Likewise, Compressor 2 can be assigned to input channels 2 or 4.
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual 2.2.3 Insert A balanced insert with switch is provided on each input channel. INS (insert): Routes the insert return to the signal path • The insert return is active only when the INS switch is engaged • Illuminates when engaged The insert send is fed pre-fader from the output of the EQ/500 slot and is always active.
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual 2.2.4 Output Routing and Pan-Pot Direct Output Each input channel has a direct output intended to feed a DAW analog input while recording. The direct output is fed post-fader/mute by default, but can be fed by the preamp output. The direct output is always active except when the channel MUTE is engaged.
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual 2.2.5 Meter and Meter Routing Input channels are equipped with an 8-segment LED full-scale meter. The meter displays the post-fader output from the channel by default, but can be switched to display the output of the preamp. A calibration trim-pot is provided so 0dBFS on the meter matches 0dBFS in the connected DAW.
API “The BOX” 2.3 Operator’s Manual Fader, Mute, Solo, and Solo-Safe The fader module with blue fader caps contains the faders, MUTE and SOLO switches for input channels 1-4. These faders are the primary output level controls for the input channels.
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual INPUT FADER: Primary output level control • 100mm full-size audio-taper fader • -∞dB to +12dB range • 0dB is unity gain • Blue fader cap The input channel MUTE and SOLO switches are located just above the fader.
API “The BOX” 2.4 Operator’s Manual 550A Equalizer – 500 Slot Input channels 1 & 2 provide semi-parametric equalization using the legendary API 550A EQ. Input channels 3 & 4 provide two (2) 500 slots for modules that conform to the standards set forth by the API VRP Alliance. This combination provides the classic API sound as well as giving the owner modest means to customize their console with a very wide range of other API and third party products 2.4.
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual The combination of Walker's incomparable 2520 op-amp, and his "Proportional Q" circuitry gives the 550A user an uncomplicated way to generate acoustically superior equalization. With the long-awaited reissue of this unit, an EQ that has had such a part in the history of recording is continuing to make history in today's music.
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual IN: Places the EQ in the signal path when engaged • Silent operation • Illuminates when engaged High Frequency: • Center Frequency (knob & blue numbers): 2.5kHz, 5kHz, 7kHz, 10kHz, 12.
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual 2.4.2 API 500 Series Slot Input channels 3 & 4 are each equipped with an API 500 series slot that can accept any module that conforms the standards set forth by the API VPR Alliance. These 500 series slots are built to power and interface any API or JDK Audio 500 series module.
API “The BOX” 2.5 Operator’s Manual Auxiliary/Cue Sends “The BOX” is equipped with four (4) auxiliary sends fed by two (2) mono auxiliary sends (1/2), and one (1) stereo auxiliary/cue send (3/4). Each pair of sends has pre/post-fader routing and an on/off switch. The stereo aux send (3/4) can be routed to feed the stereo cue bus instead of aux buses 3 & 4. To support these sends, “The BOX” is equipped with four auxiliary buses, a stereo cue bus, and corresponding masters with balanced outputs.
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual 2.5.1 Mono Aux Sends 1/2 AUX 1 and AUX 2 are mono auxiliary sends that feed aux buses 1 and 2. These sends are commonly used as effects sends, but can be used for additional headphone feed or other purposes. A common on/off switch is used to silently engage both mono sends. The post-fader signal feeds AUX 1/2 by default, but the pair can be switched to the pre-fader signal.
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual 2.5.3 Stereo Cue Sends In addition to auxiliary buses 1-4, “The BOX” is equipped with a separate stereo cue bus, cue master, and balanced output. When recording, the primary purpose of this cue system is the creation of a headphone feed, so talkback and other sources can be routed to the cue master. When mixing, stereo send 3/4 can be routed to the cue bus instead of aux buses 3/4 to provide an alternate stereo effects send.
API “The BOX” 2.6 Operator’s Manual Input Channel Rear Panel Connections The rear panel provides a comprehensive and flexible set of input channel connections. Connections include: • Preamp inputs (mic, instrument, and line) • Insert sends and returns • Direct outputs / preamp outputs • Preamp output / 500 slot input (channels 3 & 4 only) 2.6.1 Input Channel Preamp Connections All four input channels have the same preamp input connections on the rear panel.
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual 2.6.2 Input Channel Insert Connections All insert sends and returns are balanced, low-impedance, line-level signals routed via ¼” tip-ring-sleeve jacks on the rear panel. The insert send is post-EQ on channels 1 & 2. EQUALIZER OUT- INSERT SEND: ¼” tip-ringsleeve, balanced, low-impedance, line-level INSERT RETURN: ¼” tip-ring-sleeve, balanced, low-impedance, line-level The insert send is post-500 slot on channels 3 & 4.
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual 2.6.3 Input Channel Direct and Preamp Output Connections The DIRECT OUTPUTS / PRE OUTPUTS connector carries direct or preamp outputs from input channels 1-4, as well as the insert send from input channels 1 & 2 and the preamp outputs from input channels 3 & 4.
API “The BOX” 3.0 Operator’s Manual Summing Input Channels 1-16 “The BOX” provides sixteen (16) summing input channels (summing inputs) that are optimized for mixing in a DAW environment. All sixteen summing inputs are identical. Along with their associated faders, each summing input provides a simple, but appropriately featured audio path for mixing applications.
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual 2-Channel Summing Input Strip Sections 32
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual Summing Input Controls 3.1 Input Routing Summing inputs accept balanced, low-impedance, line-level signals from the SUMMING INPUTS 1-8 and SUMMING INPUTS 9-16 DB-25 connectors on the rear panel. This line input is the primary summing channel input. Other than the insert return, it’s the only input available. 3.1.1 Insert A balanced insert with switch is provided on each summing input.
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual Rear Panel Insert Connections All summing input insert sends and returns are balanced, low-impedance, line-level signals routed via ¼” tip-ring-sleeve jacks on the rear panel. The insert send located immediately after the input on summing inputs 1-16. EQUALIZER OUT- INSERT SEND: ¼” tip-ring-sleeve, balanced, low-impedance, line-level INSERT RETURN: ¼” tip-ring-sleeve, balanced, lowimpedance, line-level 3.1.
API “The BOX” 3.2 Operator’s Manual Fader, Mute, Solo, and Solo-Safe The fader modules with white fader caps contain the faders, MUTE and SOLO switches for summing inputs 1-16 (1 & 2 shown). The summing input fader controls for each pair of channels are arranged in a side-byside configuration. These faders are the primary output level controls for the summing inputs.
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual SUMMING FADER: Primary output level control • 100mm full-size audio-taper fader • -∞dB to +12dB range • 0dB is unity gain • White fader cap The summing input MUTE and SOLO switches are located just above the fader.
API “The BOX” 3.3 Operator’s Manual Output Routing and Pan-Pot Each summing input can be routed to the program bus via the PGM assignment switch. The program bus is fed post-fader/mute and pan-pot.
API “The BOX” 3.4 Operator’s Manual Auxiliary Sends “The BOX” is equipped with four (4) auxiliary sends fed by two (2) mono auxiliary sends (1/2), and one (1) stereo auxiliary/cue send (3/4). Each pair of sends has pre/post-fader routing and an on/off switch. The stereo aux send (3/4) can be routed to feed the stereo cue bus instead of aux buses 3 & 4. To support these sends, “The BOX” is equipped with four auxiliary buses, a stereo cue bus, and corresponding masters with balanced outputs.
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual AUX 1-AUX 2: Level controls for AUX 1/2 • Knob = 1, ring = 2 PRE (pre-post): Routes the pre-fader signal to AUX 1/2 when engaged • AUX 1/2 are fed post-fader by default • Illuminates when engaged 1/2 (on/off): On/off switches for AUX 1/2 • Illuminates when engaged 3.4.2 Stereo Aux Send 3/4 AUX 3/4 is a stereo auxiliary send that feeds aux buses 3 and 4 by default.
API “The BOX” 3.5 Operator’s Manual Summing Input Rear Panel Connections The rear panel provides a comprehensive and flexible set of summing input connections. Connections include: • Line inputs • Insert sends and returns 3.5.1 Summing Input Line Input Connections The line inputs for the sixteen summing inputs are distributed across two DB-25 connectors.
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual 3.5.2 Summing Input Insert Connections All insert sends and returns are balanced, low-impedance, line-level signals routed via ¼” tip-ring-sleeve jacks on the rear panel. The insert send is fed immediately after the input on summing inputs 1-16.
API “The BOX” 4.0 Operator’s Manual Master Section The master section of “The BOX” is equipped with a comprehensive set of components needed to support a wide range of recording and mixing applications.
API “The BOX” The • • • • • • • Operator’s Manual master section includes the following facilities: Stereo program bus master: PGM SUM IN, PGM INSERT, and master fader Auxiliary bus masters: AUX MASTER 1-4 Cue master: CUE Solo master: SOLO MASTER Control room monitor master: CONTROL ROOM OUT Talkback master: TALKBACK Headphone master: HEADPHONES Subsequent sections of this manual will explore each component of the master section in detail.
API “The BOX” 5.0 Operator’s Manual Stereo Program Master “The BOX” stereo program bus employs the same “Active-Combining-Amplifier” (ACA) technology found in larger API consoles. This high-quality mix bus is a key feature of “The BOX” that offers depth, punch, and warmth that’s only possible with analog summing. The stereo program master is equipped with a comprehensive set of features that support a wide range of mixing applications.
API “The BOX” 5.2 Operator’s Manual Program Bus Compression “The BOX” includes two API 527 compressor/limiters in the center section of the console. These compressors are assigned to the program bus by default for mixing, but can be routed to the input channels while recording. To use the compressors while mixing, they need to be assigned to the program bus, with Compressor 1 assigned to Left side of the program bus and Compressor 2 assigned to the Right.
API “The BOX” 5.3 Operator’s Manual Program Bus Inserts The program bus is equipped with a stereo balanced insert with switch. PGM INSERT (program insert): Routes the program insert return to the signal path • The program insert return is active only when the PGM INSERT switch is engaged • Illuminates when engaged The program insert sends are fed pre-fader immediately after the PROGRAM SUM INPUTS and compressors and are always active.
API “The BOX” 5.5 Operator’s Manual Program Bus Outputs “The BOX” is equipped with stereo, balanced, low-impedance line-level program outputs terminated with XLR connectors. PROGRAM BUS OUTPUT (LEFT & RIGHT): 3-pin male XLR, balanced, low-impedance, line-level • Located post-master fader 5.6 Program Bus Rear Panel Connections The rear panel provides a comprehensive and flexible set of stereo program master connections.
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual 5.6.1 Program Sum Input Connections PROGRAM SUM INPUT (LEFT & RIGHT): 3-pin female XLR, balanced, low-impedance, line-level • Located pre-insert and compressor 5.6.2 Program Bus Outputs PROGRAM BUS OUTPUT (LEFT & RIGHT): 3-pin male XLR, balanced, low-impedance, line-level • Located post-master fader 5.6.
API “The BOX” 6.0 Operator’s Manual 527 Compressors “The BOX” is equipped with two API 527 compressor/limiters that are located above the master section of the console. These compressors are assigned to the program bus by default for mixing, but can be routed to the input channels while recording. The API 527 Compressor takes it's place alongside the family of API VCA based compressors, the 225L and the 2500 Stereo Bus Compressor. Anyone familiar with those units will immediately be at home with the 527.
API “The BOX” The • • • • • • • • • Operator’s Manual 527 compressors in “The BOX” have the following features: Feed-forward or feed-back compression Hard or soft knee compression Patented THRUST® switch for frequency dependent side chain control Continuously variable detented THRESHOLD control Continuously variable detented ATTACK and RELEASE controls Continuously variable detented RATIO control 5-segment gain reduction (GR) meter LINK switch for stereo compression Audio circuit uses the 2520 discrete op
API “The BOX” 6.2 Operator’s Manual Program Bus Routing & Link To use the compressors while mixing, they need to be assigned to the program bus, with Compressor 1 assigned to Left side of the program bus and Compressor 2 assigned to the Right. The compressors are located after the PROGRAM SUM INPUT and before the insert send. The compressors are assigned to the program bus by default. Assignment to the program bus is accomplished by disengaging the PGM-CHAN switches on the compressor.
API “The BOX” 6.3 Operator’s Manual Compressor Controls The 527 compressor provide a complete set of functions and parameters, including the unique THRUST® side-chain filter. 6.3.
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual 6.3.
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual Compressor Circuit Topologies The 527 compressors can be set to operate in two circuit topologies: • OLD: Feed-back: The RMS detector receives the signal from after the VCA • NEW: Feed-forward: The RMS detector receives the signal from before the VCA TYPE (NEW-OLD): Toggles between feed-back and feed-forward compressor topologies • OLD feed-back is selected when not engaged • NEW feed-forward is selected when engaged • Illuminates when engaged OLD: Feed-Back Compression In
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual THRUST® The 527 compressor includes API’s patented THRUST® circuit that can be switched in or out as needed. This places the THRUST® filter before the RMS detector that decreases the compressor’s reaction to low frequency content. The result is a noticeable increase of punch and low frequencies, but a uniformly compressed signal.
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual THRUST® filter response Stereo Link LINK: Activated DC link between compressions 1 and 2 • Stereo compression when engaged • Sums the DC gain reduction voltage of both units • Illuminates when engaged NOTE: Both compressors must be IN, assigned to the program bus, with the link engaged to apply proper stereo mix compression. When LINK is engaged the gain reduction control voltage is summed.
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual Attack and release times are fully variable on the 527 compressor and share a dual-concentric potentiometer for control. Attack time is adjusted using the outer ring of the pot and Release time is adjusted using the inner knob.
API “The BOX” 7.0 Operator’s Manual Auxiliary Masters “The Box” is equipped with four (4) auxiliary buses arranged as two mono buses (1 and 2) and one stereo bus (3/4). Accordingly, the console is fitted with matching aux masters in the same configuration. The aux system provides effects sends while mixing, additional headphone feeds while recording, and extra routable sends for other applications. The auxiliary signal flow is as follows: Channel sends ⇒ aux bus ⇒ aux master ⇒ output 7.
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual 7.1.1 Aux Master Solos Each aux master can be soloed using either the AFL or PFL solo mode. When AFL is the current solo mode, mono aux masters 1 & 2 feed the LEFT and RIGHT sides of the stereo AFL solo bus in mono. Stereo aux master 3-4 feeds the output of aux bus 3 to LEFT and aux bus 4 to RIGHT. The AFL solo bus is fed immediately after the aux master potentiometers. When PFL is the current solo mode, mono aux masters 1 & 2 feed the mono PFL solo bus in mono.
API “The BOX” 8.0 Operator’s Manual Cue Master In addition to the four auxiliary buses, “The BOX” is equipped with a separate stereo cue bus and associated cue master. The cue system supports headphone feeds while recording and can be used as an alternate stereo effects send while mixing. The cue system signal flow is as follows: Cue source selectors ⇒ cue source pot ⇓ Channel sends ⇒ cue bus ⇒ cue master pot ⇒ output ⇑ talkback The stereo cue bus is the primary source for the cue master.
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual 8.1.1 Cue Master Solo The cue master can be soled using either the AFL or PFL solo mode. When AFL is the current solo mode, the stereo cue master feeds the AFL solo bus in stereo, immediately after the CUE MASTER potentiometer. When PFL is the current solo mode, the stereo cue master output is summed together and fed to the PFL solo bus in mono. Even though the console in PFL, the PFL solo bus is fed immediately after the CUE MASTER potentiometer.
API “The BOX” 8.
API “The BOX” 9.0 Operator’s Manual Talkback “The BOX” is equipped with a complete talkback system for use when recording.
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API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual soloed audio is heard in the loudspeakers in stereo. The program bus outputs are unaffected when an AFL solo is engaged (non-destructive). The overall solo level is controlled with the solo TRIM pot. SIP (Solo-In-Place) Solo-In-Place (SIP) is a stereo, destructive solo mode. SIP is active when the SIP switch is engaged. SIP solo can be activated from input channels and summing inputs.
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual 11.0 Monitoring Systems “The BOX” is equipped with a comprehensive stereo control room monitoring system that supports two (2) sets of loudspeakers, In addition, the console provides a fully routable cue and headphone system for studio and control room monitoring. Both systems employ many of the features found on larger consoles. The program bus and up to four external stereo sources can routed to the loudspeaker, headphone, and cue outputs.
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual 11.2 Control Room Monitor Controls The CONTROL ROOM OUT master section provides a full set of controls for two (2) sets of loudspeakers.
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual Main and Alternate Control Room Monitors The selected C/R SOURCE can be routed to one of two sets of stereo loudspeakers. Main and alternate monitors are selected using the ALT switch, with the main system selected by default. The output level for the alternate monitors can be trimmed to match the mains.
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual Loudspeaker DIM Function DIM: Activates the control room loudspeaker DIM function when engaged • Monitor output is attenuated by the amount set with the DIM pot • DIM activates when the TALK button is engaged • Illuminates in orange when engaged DIM: Sets the control room loudspeaker DIM level • Controls the amount of attenuation applied loudspeaker outputs when DIM is engaged to the Stereo and Mono Monitoring The selected C/R SOURCE can be monitored in stereo or mono.
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual 11.3 Headphone Amplifier In addition to the two control room monitor controls, “The Box” is equipped with separate headphone amplifier and associated controls. The system supports a single stereo headphone feed to two (2) headphone jacks, one on the rear panel and one under the armrest. The cue feed is typically routed to the headphones while recording and the control room source (program bus) is sent while mixing.
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual 11.
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual 12.0 VU Meters “The BOX” come equipped with a pair of LEFT and RIGHT stereo VU meters mounted above the 527 compressors. These VU meters are back-lit and have an extended range to +5 to accommodate high output content. 0VU = +4dBu The meters are fed from the C/R SOURCE selectors above the control room monitors controls. The stereo VU meters display the levels of the sources selected for control room monitoring (C/R SOURCE). Refer to section 11.
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual 13.0 Rear Panel Connections “The BOX” rear panel contains all the connections needed to interface the console with other studio equipment.
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual 13.1 Input Channels 1-4 Connections The rear panel provides a comprehensive and flexible set of input channel connections. Connections include: • Preamp inputs (mic, instrument, and line) • Insert sends and returns • Direct outputs / preamp outputs • Preamp output / 500 slot input (channels 3 & 4 only) Input Channel Preamp Connections All four input channels have the same preamp input connections on the rear panel.
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual Input Channel Insert Connections All insert sends and returns are balanced, low-impedance, line-level signals routed via ¼” tip-ring-sleeve jacks on the rear panel. The insert send is post-EQ on channels 1 & 2. EQUALIZER OUT- INSERT SEND: ¼” tip-ringsleeve, balanced, low-impedance, line-level INSERT RETURN: ¼” tip-ring-sleeve, balanced, low-impedance, line-level The insert send is post-500 slot on channels 3 & 4.
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual Input Channel Direct and Preamp Output Connections The DIRECT OUTPUTS / PRE OUTPUTS connector carries direct or preamp outputs from input channels 1-4, as well as the insert send from input channels 1 & 2 and the preamp outputs from input channels 3 & 4.
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual The rear panel provides a comprehensive and flexible set of summing input connections. Connections include: • Line inputs • Insert sends and returns Summing Input Line Input Connections The line inputs for the sixteen summing inputs are distributed on two DB-25 connectors.
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual 13.3 Program Bus Connections The rear panel provides a comprehensive and flexible set of stereo program master connections.
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual Program Bus Insert Connections INSERT SEND (ACA OUTPUT) (LEFT & RIGHT): ¼” tip-ring-sleeve, balanced, lowimpedance, line-level INSERT RETURN (LEFT & RIGHT): ¼” tipring-sleeve, balanced, low-impedance, linelevel Program Bus Output Connections PROGRAM BUS OUTPUT (LEFT & RIGHT): 3-pin male XLR, balanced, low-impedance, line-level • Located post-master fader 13.
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API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual 14.0 Application Guide “The BOX” is a highly versatile audio production console and is at home with a wide variety of applications including: • Multitrack Recording • Overdubbing • Mixing • Broadcasting • Post Production • Live Sound (with the addition of external preamps) API realizes the owners of “The BOX” are professional users, so this section of the manual is designed to provide overviews of quick and easy setups for basic applications.
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual API 500 Series Slot Patches: Channels 3 & 4 only. In additional to the insert, external signal processor may be connected via the PREAMP OUTPUT and 500 SLOT INPUT connections on the rear panel. Refer to section 2.4.2 500 Slot.
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual If a desirable automated mix has already been created in the DAW, use the following procedure to return the automated tracks to the program bus: 1) Recreate the panning used in the DAW mix on the corresponding summing inputs. 2) Route the automated tracks in the DAW to the corresponding summing inputs. 3) Engage the 0dB switches. This will bypass the console faders. 4) Engage the PGM switch to route the DAW tracks to the program bus at unity gain.
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual 14.1.4 Cue and Headphones The cue system is designed to support headphone feeds while recording. The stereo cue master can be fed from the cue sends on all channels as well as the output of the CUE SOURCE selectors. Headphone Feeds From Program Bus/External Source 1) Route the program master outputs and/or up to 4 external 2-track sources to the cue master 2) Using the C/R SOURCE selectors, engage the PROGRAM switch.
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual “More Me” Headphone Feeds From Cue Sends and Program Bus When recording a simple overdub, the program bus is all that is needed in the headphone feed. However it is sometimes desirable to add more of the tracks being recorded to the headphone feed. This can be done using the cue sends on those summing inputs.
API “The BOX” 11) Operator’s Manual Engage the CUE talkback assignment switch and adjust the GAIN as needed. Headphone Feeds From DAW Via Summing Inputs or Input Channels Use the following procedure to return a DAW headphone mix to a pair of channels and add talkback. 1) Connect a pair of DAW outputs to the LINE INPUT connectors for a pair of channels 2) Route the headphone mix in the DAW to the corresponding DAW outputs.
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual 14.2 Mixing This setup uses summing inputs 1-16 and input channels 1-4 to return up to twenty (20) individual multitrack returns from the DAW, effects processors, and other sources. These returns can be routed to the program bus, as well as cue/aux sends for effects. Control room monitors and headphones are fed the program bus outputs.
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual 14.2.1 Program Bus Compression Use the following procedure to use stereo program bus compression: 1) Disengage the PGM-CHAN switches on compressors 1 and 2. 2) Engage the LINK switch on the compressor. This will sum the DC gain reduction control voltage for stereo processing. 3) Adjust for the desired compression and be sure to set the controls on both compressors exactly the same.
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual APPENDIX API Limited Warranty and Service Information A.1 a. Warranty Information: This product carries a one year labor and a five year parts warranty from date of purchase. API (Automated Processes, Incorporated) does not cover claims for damage due to alteration and/or abuse. This warranty is limited to failures during normal use, which are due to defects in material or workmanship.
File Date: 13 Sep 2013 20:34 C:\vutrax\WORK\api\Block Diagrams\api the box block rev d.dia API "The BOX" A.
API “The BOX” A.3 Operator’s Manual DB-25 Pin-Out Diagrams The DB-25 connectors use a typical 8-channel pin-out standard.
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual Summing Input Line Input Connections SUMMING INPUTS 1-8: Standard = API • 1 = Summing Line Input 1 • 2 = Summing Line Input 2 • 3 = Summing Line Input 3 • 4 = Summing Line Input 4 • 5 = Summing Line Input 5 • 6 = Summing Line Input 6 • 7 = Summing Line Input 7 • 8 = Summing Line Input 8 SUMMING INPUTS 9-16: Standard = API • 1 = Summing Line Input 9 • 2 = Summing Line Input 10 • 3 = Summing Line Input 11 • 4 = Summing Line Input 12 • 5 = Summing Line Input 13 • 6 = Summing
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual Direct/Preamp Output Connections DIRECT OUTPUTS/PRE OUTPUTS: Standard = API • 1 = Direct Output / Pre Output 1 • 2 = Direct Output / Pre Output 2 • 3 = Direct Output / Pre Output 3 • 4 = Direct Output / Pre Output 4 • 5 = Insert Send 1 • 6 = Insert Send 2 • 7 = Preamp Output 3 • 8 = Preamp Output 4 Auxiliary/Cue Output Connections AUX OUTPUTS / CUE OUTPUTS: API = Standard • 1 = Aux Output 1 • 2 = Aux Output 2 • 3 = Aux Output 3 • 4 = Aux Output 4 • 5 = Cue Output LEFT •
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual External 2-Track Input Connections 2 TRACK INPUTS 1-4: • 1 = 2-TRACK 1 Input • 2 = 2-TRACK 1 Input • 3 = 2-TRACK 2 Input • 4 = 2-TRACK 2 Input • 5 = 2-TRACK 3 Input • 6 = 2-TRACK 3 Input • 7 = 2-TRACK 4 Input • 8 = 2-TRACK 5 Input LEFT RIGHT LEFT RIGHT LEFT RIGHT LEFT RIGHT 96
API “The BOX” Operator’s Manual Dan Pfeifer is a Professor of Recording Industry at Middle Tennessee State University Automated Processes, Inc. 8301 Patuxent Range Road Jessup, MD 20794 USA http://apiaudio.
