User Guide

8
Introduction
The Midas XL88 is a line level 8 x 8 matrix mixer which will greatly expand
the capabilities of any mixing console to give eight fully independent sound
balances from eight pre-mixed group outputs from the main console. A few
specialised consoles have a matrix incorporated into their design, but the XL88
can offer this valuable extra facility to any sound installation, and is suitable for
use with loudspeaker arrays, satellite links, land lines, and audio applications of
all kinds.
The construction of the XL88 is fully modular to Midas high standard. The
steel frame is designed to be mounted in a standard nineteen inch rack and
is four units (4U) in height. Rear support is not required. Inputs and outputs
are all balanced, either electronically or via optional transformers. The audio
quality is, of course, to a fully professional standard and the unit interfaces easily
with other equipment.
The XL88 frame contains eight identical channel modules, each of which has the
following features:
Balanced input
Direct output with level control and mute button
Eight matrix routing switches and level controls
matrix output with level control via a large Penny and Giles fader
Matrix output mute button
20 segment LED bargraph meter switchable to show the level of the direct output
or the matrix output
A Pre-Fade Listen function allows instant access to all inputs and matrix
outputs. A rear panel XLR carries the PFL signal to the main mixing console or
to any other monitoring system.
The Midas XL88 has been designed for ease of use with clear panel markings and
LED status indicators for all audio switches. Multiple XL88 units may easily
be combined to extend the matrix facility to 8 x 16, 8 x 24, or in fact to virtually
any number of outputs.
Reliability Control
Even with the advanced technology incorporated in this product, each instrument
is given the full backing of Midas Reliability Control which proves it against a
specification consistent with the highest professional standards. Only top quality
components are used and every unit is bench tested and aligned before a burn-
in period and final performance test.