® ® System Processor with Advanced Feedback Suppression 220i User Manual
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS WARNING FOR YOUR PROTECTION PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING: CAUTION RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT OPEN A T T E N T I O N : RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE - NE PAS OUVRIR W A R N I N G : TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT EXPOSE THIS EQUIPMENT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE The symbols shown above are internationally accepted symbols that warn of potential hazards with electrical products.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS U.K. MAINS PLUG WARNING ELECTROMAGNETIC COMPATIBILITY This unit conforms to the Product Specifications noted on the Declaration of Conformity. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: • this device may not cause harmful interference, and • this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. Operation of this unit within significant electromagnetic fields should be avoided.
220i Table of Contents Introduction 0.1 Defining the 220i..............................................ii 0.2 Service Contact Info........................................iii 0.3 Warranty...........................................................iv 3.15 Output Phase/Polarity ..................................26 3.16 Subharmonic Synthesizer .............................27 Section 4 - Utilities Section 1 - Getting Started 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 Rear Panel Connections ...................................
220i INTRODUCTION INTRO CUSTOMER SERVICE INFO Defining the DriveRack WARRANTY INFO ®
220i Introduction INTRODUCTION Congratulations on your purchase of the dbx® 220i! The dbx 220i processor was designed to provide Installers with programmable system processing along with dbx’s Advanced Feedback Suppression™ (AFS™) algorithm for superior system control and performance.
220i Introduction In addition to the amazing menu of processing available, the 220i also affords you the luxury of utilizing dbx Zone-Controller series wall-mounted control panels that will allow you to remotely control various parameters of the 220i. The ZC-1 offers remote programmable Volume control to any installation using the DriveRack 220i. The ZC-2 provides programmable Volume and Mute control. Both the ZC-1 and ZC-2 can be programmed to outputs of the DriveRack 220i.
220i Introduction 0.3 - Warranty This warranty is valid only for the original purchaser and only in the United States. 1. The warranty registration card that accompanies this product must be mailed within 30 days after purchase date to validate this warranty. Proof-of-purchase is considered to be the burden of the consumer. 2. dbx warrants this product, when bought and used solely within the U.S., to be free from defects in materials and workmanship under normal use and service. 3.
220i Section 1 Getting Started ®
Section 1 220i Getting Started 1.1 - Rear Panel IEC Power Cord Receptacle The DriveRack 220i comes with a power supply that will accept voltages ranging from 100V120V at frequencies from 50Hz-60Hz. An IEC cord is included. EU version accepts 220V-240V at frequencies from 50Hz-60Hz. PC Connection This DB-9 type null modem connection is used to send and receive information to and from the GUI interface.
220i Getting Started Section 1 1.2 - Front Panel PC Connection This DB-9 type connection is used to send and receive information to and from the computer running the DriveWare™ software. Note: this connection is parallel with the DB-9 connection on the rear panel. Load Button The load button is used to load the selected program. Program Display This program display is used to indicate the currently selected program of the 220i.
Section 1 220i Getting Started 1. 3 - Connections • When setting up the DriveRack 220i, make connections as follows: • Always make connections prior to applying power to the unit. • Connect the output from the sending device (mixer) to either of the two XLR inputs connectors shown below. • Make output connections from any one of the 2 output XLR or Euroblock connectors shown below to the input of the selected power amps.
220i Section 2 SOFTWARE OPERATION ®
Section 2 220i Software Operation For your convenience, all editing functions of the DriveRack 220i are performed via the included Driveware GUI. This section has been created to act as a tutorial for performing various editing aspects of the unit.Programs 2. 1 - DriveRack 220i Philosophy The philosophy of the DriveRack 220i is built around the idea of a program. Programs A program consists of processing modules configured to form the desired signal path.
220i Software Operation Section 2 2. 4 - Configuration Configuration of the DriveRack units is done in Unit view. The DriveRack 220i configuration can be changed by clicking on the CONFIG button. Once the CONFIG button has been clicked, the modules can be changed by right clicking on the module to be changed.
Section 2 220i Software Operation 2. 7 - Meters and Mutes The input and output level meters and mute buttons can be seen by clicking on the METER button in the upper right corner of the program screen. Outputs can be muted by clicking on the mute buttons. 2. 8 - Loading The LOAD button is used for loading one of the programs in the program table. Right click on the program name (directly below the large 220i in the upper left hand corner of the Unit view), to see a list of programs.
220i Software Operation Section 2 store routine where a name for the program can be entered. Under the name lies the Program Table position selector for this new program. To complete the storing process, make sure that the “Replace an Existing Program” button is selected and click OK. 2. 10 - Import and Exporting To save a program to your computer click on File on the Menu Bar and select Save, then select Export Program – you are exporting a program from the DriveRack unit to the computer.
Section 2 220i Software Operation 2. 11 - Utilities The DriveRack 220i utilities can be entered by clicking on Edit on the Menu Bar and selecting Utilities. 2. 12 - Online/Offline The DriveWare GUI provides a mechanism for creating programs while not physically connected to the DriveRack unit. The GUI can be opened and a DriveRack unit can be inserted using the Insert menu from the Menu Bar. The unit can be configured and edited just the way a real unit can.
220i Section 3 PARAMETERS DETAILED PARAMETERS ®
Section 3 220i Detailed Parameters The 220i DriveRack offers complete editing flexibility, by offering in-depth control over every parameter within each effect module. The following section will provide you with a module block representation for each effect, as well as descriptions and explanations of all parameters within the 220i. 3.1 - Input Routing The signal routing begins at the INPUT ROUTING block of the 220i. These parameters are user adjustable on all programs.
220i Detailed Parameters Section 3 GEQ EQ On/Off Turns the EQ on and off. Flatten/Restore This parameter either flattens the GEQ or restores the GEQ to the last setting before flattening. The DriveRack unit allows you to leave the EQ edit window and return without losing the edited EQ settings. Frequency (F) 31.5Hz to 16.0kHz This parameter allows you to select any one the 28 available frequencies.
Section 3 220i Detailed Parameters Level (2-8) -12 to 12 dB Sets the overall level of the selected parametric EQ frequency. Band 9 Frequency 20 to 20k (High Shelf) Selects the frequency of the high shelf parametric EQ. Slope 9 3-12dB/Octave Sets the slope of the high shelf parametric EQ. Level 9 -12 to 12 dB Sets the overall gain of the high shelf parametric 3.3 - Advanced Feedback Suppression The 220i offers the exclusive patent pending AFS (Advanced Feedback Suppression) feedback elimination module.
220i Detailed Parameters Section 3 Clear Live/All This parameter clears the filters. If Clear Live is selected, then (if invoked) the live filters are reset. If Clear All is selected, then (if invoked) all of the filters are reset. When either Clear Live or Clear All is selected, the third parameter row displays “Start w/ Data Wheel.” Mode - Live or Fixed When the mode is Fixed, the algorithm updates only the fixed filters. When the mode is Live, the algorithm updates only the live filters.
Section 3 220i Detailed Parameters Sensitivity -20-+20dB The AFS algorithm is very effective when the audio has a nominal level of 0 dBu, however if the audio is too low in level the AFS algorithm may not catch feedback as quickly as possible. By increasing or decreasing the sensitivity you can adjust for audio that is either too loud or too soft and help the AFS function properly. 3.4 - Automatic Gain Control (AGC) The AGC is used to keep the average level of a signal at a constant level.
220i Section 3 Detailed Parameters Low Threshold: -60 to -30dB The Low Threshold sets a lower limit to the AGC. This prevents the AGC from adding gain to low level signals or noise. Attack: 0.20 to 5 Seconds This adjusts how fast the AGC will increase gain. Release: 30.0 to 1 dB/Second This adjusts how fast the AGC will reduce gain. 3.5 - De-Esser The 220i offers a dedicated de-Esser module. This De-esser effect is ideal for removing unwanted vocal sibilance..
Section 3 220i Detailed Parameters 3.6 - Ducker The Ducker provides a method for attenuating the signal in one channel when a signal is present in the other channel. Ducker On/Off Turns the Ducker on or off. Threshold -40 to +20dBu Threshold is the level from signal path A at which the Ducker will begin attenuating the signal passing through the Ducker (signal path B). Amount -0 to 6dB This parameter sets the amount sets the amount of attenuation. Attack 0.
220i Detailed Parameters Section 3 Compressor On/Off Turns the Compressor module on and off. OverEasy (O) Off to 10 There are ten levels of OverEasy® that can be used for the limiters. The point when the compressor starts to compress is the "knee." When the compressor starts to reduce the level of a signal abruptly as it passes over the threshold, this is called "hard knee" compression. OverEasy® (soft knee as it is sometimes called) is when the volume of the sound is compressed gradually.
Section 3 220i Detailed Parameters Gain (G) -20 to +20 dB This parameter is used to compensate for the gain lost during compression. By using heavy compression on a signal and then boosting the signal with the output gain, the user can create a signal that sounds much louder than it actually is. Auto On/Off When Auto Mode is on, the220i automatically sets the Attack, Hold, and Release times for the signal.
220i Detailed Parameters Section 3 Gate On/Off Turns the Gate on and off. Threshold -50 to 20 dBu The threshold is the volume level at which the gate opens. Anything above the threshold passes, while signal that is lower than the threshold is attenuated. Beware, setting the threshold to high can cut off the tail end of signals as they fade out (the sustain of a guitar note, a held piano chord, a reverb tail, etc.). Ratio 1:1.0 to 1:15 This is where you decide how much downward expansion you want.
Section 3 220i Detailed Parameters Gain -36 to 6 dB Sets the level of the selected notch filter. Set to +6dB to help find unwanted feedback, then set to -3dB to -36dB to remove. Q 16 to 128 Selects the Q of the selected notch filter. 3.10 - Matrix Mixer This adjusts the mix and output levels of the 220i. If there is a Ducker in the signal path this also provides for bypassing the ducker module to one or both outputs. Input A Level -Inf to 20dB Adjusts the level from signal path A.
220i Detailed Parameters Section 3 PEQ On/Off Turns the PEQ band on and off. The following figure shows the constant Q parametric filter. Flatten/Restore This parameter either flattens the PEQ or restores the PEQ to its original shape. Type This parameter selects the PEQ type. Types include: 1. Bell-All parametrics are bell-shaped 2. HShelf - One shelf is High, while all others are bell 3. LShelf - One shelf is Low, while all others are bell and 4.
Section 3 220i Detailed Parameters 3.12 - Bandpass Filter This allows the user to adjust the output bandwidth. Highpass Out to 20kHz Adjusts the lowest frequency that the output will achieve. Lowpass Out to 20Hz Adjusts the highest frequency that the output will achieve. 3.13 - Limiter The 220i offers a dedicated Limiter module. The Limiters are located on each output channel and have been strategically placed for speaker and amplifier protection. Limiter On/Off Turns the Limiter module on and off.
220i Detailed Parameters Section 3 (soft knee as it is sometimes called) is when the volume of the sound is compressed gradually. OverEasy® compression starts to compress before the level of the signal reaches the threshold and reaches full compression after the level has gone above the threshold. This OverEasy® compression, by its very nature sounds much smoother and more natural and will be used for most applications.
Section 3 220i Detailed Parameters 3.14 Delay The parameters for the delay are as follows and are user adjustable: Delay On/Off Turns the delay on and off. Length Sets the amount of delay time. Units - Seconds, Feet or Meters Selects the unit of measurement for the delay. 4.15 - Output The output section 220i DriveRack provide the user with the ability to control output levels of the unit and adjust phase compensation of loudspeakers within the signal path.
220i Detailed Parameters Section 3 Polarity Positive or Negative This section is used to select either the Positive or Negative polarity. Phase 0 to 180 This parameter sets the amount of phase within the selected output path. The phase is referenced to the uppermost frequency within the band. 3.
Section 3 220i Detailed Parameters ® 28 DriveRack® User Manual
220i Section 4 Utilities Program List Zone Control Front Panel Lockout ®
Section 4 220i Utilities The Utility section of the DriveRack 220i gives you the ability to perform several key operational functions including: custom Program List creation, Zone Controller settings, and front panel lockout mode selection. Use this section of the manual to make yourself familiar with all aspects of the Utility menu of the DriveRack system. 4.
220i Utilities/Meters Section 4 other words, one controller may be used for a single zone and then another controller may be used for the entire venue or system. With a maximum distance of up to 1000 ft. on CAT5 cable with RJ-45 connectors, the Zone Controllers offer an easy to program and use remote control surface. Programming To be programmed, each Zone Controller must have its identification set using the DIP switches on the rear of the panel.
Section 4 220i Utilities 4.3 - Front Panel Lockout The Utility menu of the 220i also offers the option of performing a front panel lockout. This is the perfect security deterrent for unwanted editing. Open the utility menu by selecting Edit on the Menu Bar and then clicking on Utilities. Select the tab labeled Misc. and select Front Panel Lockout Mode. You can then choose between a complete Front Panel Lockout, Front Panel Lockout with Filter Clearing, or Unlocked.
220i Section 5 APPLICATION GUIDE ®
SECTION 5 220i Application Guide This Application guide section is provided to offer suggested installation applications of the DriveRack® units that will allow you to optimize peak performance of the units. Note that the four included applications represent the extensive flexibility of the DriveRack® units. These applications can be used verbatim, or as sample reference guide templates for designing countless audio applications. 5.1 - Mic Processing/Mixing Hardware 1.
220i Application Guide SECTION 5 5.2 - Stereo/Dual Mono System Processing Hardware 1. Connect the outputs of the mixer to the inputs of the DriveRack. 2. Connect the outputs of the DriveRack to the inputs of the amplifier. 3. Making sure that all outputs are muted, apply power to the mixer and amplifiers. Software 1. Select Program 1 - Stereo & AFS. 2. Load the program by pressing the Program Up and Down buttons on the front panel, or from the DriveWare GUI. 3.
SECTION 5 220i Application Guide 5.3 - Room Combining Hardware 1. 2. 3. 4. Connect the audio source to the inputs of the DriveRack. Connect the outputs of the DriveRack to the amplifier. Making sure that all outputs are muted, apply power to the mixer and amplifiers. Make connections between the ZC-4 and the DriveRack. Make connections between the contact closure and the ZC-4. Software 1. Select Program 7 - Room Combine 1. 2. Load the program from the front panel or from the DriveWare GUI . 3.
220i Application Guide SECTION 5 5.4 - BGM/Paging Hardware 1. 2. 3. 4. Connect the audio source to CH 2 of the DriveRack 220i. Connect the outputs of the DriveRack to the amplifier. Making sure that all outputs are muted, apply power to the mixer and amplifiers. Make connections between the Zone Controllers and the 220i if applicable. Software 1. Select Program 5 - Restaurant. 2. Load the program from either the front panel of the DriveWare GUI. 3.
220i Appendix ®
220i Appendix A.1 - Factory Reset/Flash Update In the event that a reset is required, the DriveRack® 220i offers you the option of performing a “Soft” or “Hard” reset. The Soft Reset resets all operating parameters except user programs. The Hard Reset Procedure will reset all programmable information back to the factory defaults.
220i Appendix A.
220i Appendix A.3 - Program List Factory Program List 1) Stereo & AFS - Designed for Stereo systems. 2) Two Mics - Processing for two separate microphones. 3) Mic Mix - Processing and mixing two microphones together. 4) Page 2 Zones - With a microphone in ch. 1 and music in ch. 2 this will send both music and page announcements to both outputs. 5) Restaurant - With a setup similar to #4, the music is sent to both outputs, but the paging only occurs in output 2 (Lobby).
Inputs RF Filter Input Mic Gain 30-60dB Mic Signal/Clip TYPE IV™ A/D Down Up Load CLIP Detect Power Down Relay Bypass Programmable Logic Micro Processor DSP Input meter Rear RS 232 Front RS 232 Seven-Segment Display Clip Channel 2 threshold Channel 1 Threshold Bypass 20 D/A Output meter RF Filter DriveRack 220i Block Diagram Outputs 220i Appendix A.
DriveRack Appendix ® A.5 - Gain and Relay Jumpers CAUTION: These servicing instructions are for use by qualified service personnel only. To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not perform any servicing other than that contained in the operating instructions unless you are qualified to do so. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Disconnect mains power before servicing. The 220i DriveRack gives you the option of changing the input gain level settings.
DriveRack ® Appendix A.6 - Tips,Tricks and Troubleshooting Speaker Tunings Various “Speaker Tunings” are available for some of the different DriveRack units; on the DriveRack 480 units speaker tunings can be downloaded from the website, whereas on the DriveRack 260 the speaker tunings are found in the Wizard function. Since they are not all available for the same platforms there is a mechanism to replicate these tunings from one DriveRack type to the next. Open the platform that has the speaker tuning.
DriveRack Appendix ® A.7 - Zone Controller Wiring and Install Zone Controller Wiring The DriveRack Zone Controllers, (ZC-1, ZC-2, ZC-3, ZC-4) can be wired serially or in parallel. To wire in series each Zone Controller must have an identification or zone number chosen using the DIP switches on the side of the controller (see diagram A).
DriveRack ® Appendix Diagram A Diagram B ID# 1 80-1342-A RJ45 CONNECT ONLY TO ZONE CONTRO LLER IN P UT . RJ45 IEC60065 IEC60065 CONNECT ONLY TO ZONE CONTRO LLER IN P UT .
DriveRack Appendix Cable Specification: Cat 5 Cable - 4-Twisted Pairs of 24 AWG wire RJ-45 (8-Position) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 ZC-BOB Diagram A ZC-1 White/Orange Orange White/Green Green White/Blue Blue White/Brown Brown ZC-2 RJ-45 (8-Position) 1 -VREF 2 -Zone 1 3 -Zone 2 4 -Zone 3 5 -Zone 4 6 -Zone 5 7 -Zone 6 8 -GND ZC-3 ZC-4 Diagram B Diagram C ® 48 DriveRack® User Manual ®
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