e r Mix s On Ph tte Crimson 3 Audio Interface with Analog Monitoring x tri Ph es on Create Be Manual o nit o r M a
Content Note: Click on a section or page number to immediately jump to that location. Content 2 Connections Version 3.
Content Control Elements 29 Calibration of the Monitoring System 45 Mic Gain 30 Symbols 47 48 V 31 Security Advices 48 Placement 48 Declaration of CE Conformity 54 Notes on Environmental Protection 55 Contact 56 High-Pass Filter ( ) 31 Instrument Gain (Instr Gain) 32 LED Indicators 33 Analog Inputs 34 DAW Returns 34 Sources 35 Digital In 36 Speakers: A to B 37 Speakers: Dim 37 Artist Mode 38 Talkback Mic (Artist Mode) 39 Monitor Mix 40 Phones 41 Phonitor Matrix
Version 3.2 – 04/2018 Developer: Jens Gronwald This manual contains a description of the product SPL Crimson 3. In no way it represents a guarantee of particular characteristics or results of use. The information in this document has been carefully compiled and verified and, unless otherwise stated or agreed upon, correctly describes the product.
Scope of Delivery Crimson 3 (Black: Model 1700, White: Model 1702) External power supply USB cable Quickstart/Product Overview Measurement & Weight Housing (H x W x D): 0.17" x 12.99" x 8.35" (67 x 330 x 212 mm) Weight: 6.17 lbs (2.8 kg) (without external power supply) Please keep the original packaging. In case of a service procedure the original packaging ensures a safe transport. It also serves as a safe packaging for your own transports if you do not use special transportation cases.
Introduction Welcome and thank you for purchasing the Crimson 3. It combines a high-performance USB audio interface with high-quality preamps and a separate, fully-featured analog monitor controller. You can play and play back, record and convert, control and listen with one single device. So all you essentially need for a truly professional recording setup is the Crimson 3 and a DAW. The SPL Phonitor Matrix – which is now part of the Crimson 3 – delivers a speaker-like listening experience on headphones.
Specifications General USB 2-Audio-System (can also be connected to USB 3 port) High-performance, 32 bit microcontroller, 24 bit audio processing 6 input and 6 output channels Sample rates (kHz): 44.1 | 48 | 88.2 | 96 | 176.4 | 192 Fixed master clock for lowest jitter True 1:1 audio, no sample rate conversion or clock recovery SPDIF and MIDI I/O s Firmware and Driver Info: Download the latest drivers and firmware from: www.crimson3.spl.info.
AD/DA Conversion AD-Conversion Dynamic Range: 44.1 | 48 kHz: 113 dB Total Harmonic Distortion and Noise (THD+N) at 1 kHz (-1 dBFS): 88.2 | 96 kHz: 110 dB 44.1 | 48 kHz: 0.002% Signal to Noise Ratio (SNR): 88.2 | 96 kHz: 0.0025% 44.1 | 48 kHz: -113 dB 88.2 | 96 kHz: -110 dB 0 dBFS = +15 dBu Sample Rates (kHz): 44.1 | 48 | 88.2 | 96 | 176.4 | 192 DA-Conversion Dynamic Range: 44.1 | 48 kHz: 109 dB 88.2 | 96 kHz: 107 dB Signal to Noise Ratio (SNR): 44.1 | 48 kHz: -109 dB 88.
Connections Instrument 1 Headphones 1 Instrument 2 Headphones 2 Content Crimson 3 Audio Interface with Analog Monitoring 9
Connections DAW/Computer Power Supply e.g. Sampler, CD-Recorder or MP3-Recorder e.g. MIDI-Keyboard e.g. CD-Player (digital) Microphone Speaker Set A e.g. CD-Player (analog) PlayStation e.g. Keyboard, Synthesizer, Preamplifier/Channel Strip e.g. Sampler Speaker Set B / ext. headphone amp. in Artist Mode e.g.
Connections USB Connect your computer here. Alternatively you can connect an iPad or iPhone with the original Apple camera adapter. The USB port complies with the Hi-Speed USB 2.0 specification with a data transfer rate of 480 MBit/s, and is Apple Class 2 compliant as well. USB 3 is backward compatible with USB 2, which means that the Crimson 3 can also be connected to any USB 3 port. The package includes an appropriate USB cable.
Connections Power Connection Connect the DC connector of the external power supply to the rear PWR socket of the Crimson 3. Plug the power supply into a wall power socket. We recommend to connect the Crimson 3 and all other audio devices in the same electric circuit by using a high-quality and appropriately rated multi-outlet power strip. This allows you to switch power on and off for all audio devices simultaneously.
Connections Power Supply The PSU comes with an appropriate mains adapter for the country where the Crimson 3 is bought. See also “Security Advices” on page 48 cont. External Power Supply: Mean Well GE-18 Input 100–240 V AC/50–60 Hz; Output 12 V DC/1.5 A Internal Power Supplies Audio: +/- 17.0 V, Digital + 5 V and + 3.3 V, Phantom Power + 48 V Power consumption: 16.
Connections Inputs Microphone, Instrument and Line Inputs Taking into account both microphone inputs, the two instrument and four line inputs, you have eight analog inputs at your disposal. Four of the eight analog input signals can be simultaneously recorded. The selection is defined by the assignment of the corresponding inputs. This has the advantage that the channel configuration can be directly and intuitively made by the assignment of the connections, plus there is almost no need for switching.
Connections Mic Inputs You can connect dynamic, condenser, tube, and ribbon microphones to the mic inputs. Use the 48 V switch to provide phantom power to the microphones that require it. For more information, read the section “48 V” on page 31. Specifications: XLR balanced (Pin 1=Ground, Pin 2=hot, Pin 3=cold) Input impedance: 10 kohms Maximum input level: +14.5 dBu (Mic Gain control hard left).
Connections Line Inputs You can connect and record four line signals. E.g. keyboards, synths, preamps or channel strips. All four balanced line inputs are routed 1:1 (unity-gain) to the converter and monitoring section. Level adjustment is not provided. Ring Specifications: 1/4" stereo jacks (TRS) Balanced input impedance: 20 kohm Maximum input level: +22.
Connections Instrument Inputs Both Instrument inputs are on the front for easy access. They support high levels to allow the connection of active or passive instruments, and they have a corresponding high impedance. Active instruments already feature a preamp circuit, passive do not (pickups only). Connection examples: electric guitars and basses, acoustic guitars with pickups, double bass, etc. Note: Low impedance line signals (DA converter, sampler, synthesizer, etc.
Connections Phones 1 and Phones 2 IMPORTANT: Use the Phones 1 and Phones 2 jacks on the front panel to connect your headphones. You can connect all types of headphones with impedances from 20 to 600 ohm. This wide range entails big volume differences between low and high impedance headphones. In order to keep low impedance headphones under good control, we use a comparatively high impedance of 33 ohms at the output. Power at 0 dBu: 47 ohms load: 13 mW 300 ohms load: 1.7 mW 600 ohms load: 1.
Connections Important Recommendations Always reduce the volume before you connect or disconnect your headphones especially when changing headphones. This way you will avoid loud crackling noises reaching your ears. Plus, it will also protect you from unexpected surprises whenever the new headphones you connect have a lower impedance or a higher efficiency, which will make them sound louder at the same volume setting. Never connect mono plugs to the stereo jacks on the front panel.
Connections Speakers A Connect your active monitors or a power amplifier here. IMPORTANT: In Artist Mode, Speakers A only play back DAW’s 1|2. The artist mix is provided on Speakers B and Phones 2. Note: Specifications: XLR balanced (Pin 1=Ground, Pin 2= hot, Pin 3=cold) DIP switch 5 (on the bottom of the unit) generally enables or disables the Artist Mode. See page 38. Output impedance: 75 ohms unbalanced, 150 ohms balanced Maximum output level: +22.
Connections Speakers B The Speakers B output is meant for alternative monitoring through a second set of active speakers. You can trim the Speakers B output in order to level them to Speakers A: two ten-step trimmers allow a fine adjustment of + 6/- 5 dB. Note: In Artist Mode, you can also connect an external headphone amplifier to the Speakers B to provide a specific headphone mix.
Connections Sources You have three stereo source inputs with different connectors at your disposal: Source input 1 via two stereo jacks, Source input 2 via two RCA connectors, Source input 3 via mini stereo jack. This means you can connect up to three audio devices as playback sources, like a CD or MP3 player, a tape machine, an external DA converter or even a smartphone. Typical applications include the use of reference tracks to do A/B comparisons or playing an instrument along with a song.
Connections Source 1: Jack Connect a DA converter or CD-Player here. If you have a mono source to be monitored, connect it to the left input to place it in the center of the stereo image. Specifications: 1/4" jack, balanced (Sleeve=Ground, Tip=hot, Ring=cold) Input impedance: 20 kohms balanced Maximum input level: +22.5 dBu.
Connections Source 2: RCA RCA connectors are ideal for any type of consumer devices with unbalanced connections, for example CD/DVD/BluRay player, AV receiver, Sat receiver, cable receiver, etc. The signal gets preamplified from consumer level (-10 dBV) to professional level (0 dBu). Note: The level of the RCA source is automatically boosted to professional level to be directly comparable with the other sources and inputs.
Connections Source 3: Mini-J The mini stereo jack input is the natural input for all MP3 players, tablets, smartphones and laptops. The signal gets preamplified by 15 dB. Specifications: Note: The level of the Mini-J source is automatically boosted to professional level to be directly comparable with the other sources and inputs. You can also deactivate this preamplification (refer to “Level Increase for Source Inputs 2 and 3” on page 26).
Connections Level Increase for Source Inputs 2 and 3 The Crimson 3 includes preamps for RCA and Mini-J inputs. Consumer level of equipment connected to the RCAs is boosted from -10 dBV to the professional level of 0 dBu. Mini-J signals are boosted by 15 dB to reach professional level. The preamps are activated by default so that consumer signals are directly comparable with professional signals.
Connections SPDIF In/Out The digital SPDIF input allows you to connect a CD player for monitoring. But you can also connect any other source with an SPDIF output (profiling guitar amp, synthesizer, drum machine, etc.). The SPDIF output can be connected to a sampler or a DAT/CD/MP3 recorder for instance. Additionally with the SPDIF input you can record two more tracks. The SPDIF input and output are AES3 compatible, often called “SPDIF Professional”.
Connections MIDI In/Out The Crimson 3 is equipped with two 5-pin DIN connectors to send and receive MIDI. To communicate with a computer via MIDI, the Crimson 3 features a MIDI interface that translates the voltage level and provides galvanic isolation. Use the MIDI input to connect a master keyboard, for example.
Control Elements Content Crimson 3 Audio Interface with Analog Monitoring 29
Control Elements Mic Gain The Crimson 3 features two identical microphone preamps. The preamps are ‘discrete’, which means they use single transistors instead of ICs, usually found in high-end preamps. This allows the preamp to be perfectly optimized for its task. Use the Mic Gain control to adjust the microphone preamp level. The adjustable gain range spans from +7 to +60 dB. To achieve the best recording level, the -6 dB LED should flash from time to time: you have enough headroom left.
Control Elements 48 V Use the 48 V switch above the Mic Gain knob to activate phantom power. Condenser microphones need phantom power to drive their integrated preamp. We recommend to disengage the phantom power for all other types of microphones. • First connect the microphone to the Crimson 3 and then engage the 48 V switch. • Before you remove the microphone disengage the 48 V switch and then wait at least ten seconds.
Control Elements Instrument Gain (Instr Gain) The Crimson 3 also includes two identical instrument preamps. Use the Instr Gain control to adjust the instrument preamp level. The adjustable volume range spans from -6 to +31 dB. The possibility to reduce the gain to -6 dB allows the connection of active electric bass guitars. To achieve the best recording level, the -6 dB LED should flash from time to time: you have enough headroom left.
Control Elements LED Indicators The LED display panel provides information about the operating status and also helps you adjust microphone and instrument levels. Level Adjustment with four LED sets Four ‘traffic-light’ LED sets indicate the level of the recording channels 1-4. Every set of LEDs is numbered: set 1 and 2 correspond to mic and line inputs 1 and 2, while set 3 and 4 correspond to instrument and line inputs 3 and 4.
Control Elements Analog Inputs The Crimson 3 allows the simultaneous recording of up to four analog inputs. To determine which signal you want to monitor use the switches underneath the Inputs as follows: Switch 1|2 engaged: you hear Mic or Line inputs 1 and 2. Switch 3|4 engaged: you hear Instrument or Line inputs 3 and 4. When recording a mono vocal track it makes sense to hear it in the center of the stereo image (rather than hard left or hard right), so you should engage the Mono switch as well.
Control Elements Sources As a true monitor controller Crimson 3 offers further monitoring-only inputs. They cannot be recorded and are therefore called Sources. Use the three switches to manage the three stereo sources, which are named after their connector format. For more information on the connectors refer to “Sources” on page 22.
Control Elements Digital In It is good practice to compare your own mixes with reference CDs to gain perspective. The Crimson 3 makes such comparisons easy and meaningful, since it uses the exact same high-quality converters for the SPDIF and DAW 1|2 in order to avoid any sound differences. Use the SPDIF switch to toggle between your Mix and the reference. You can also use the digital SPDIF input to record two more tracks.
Control Elements Speakers: A to B You can connect two stereo speaker sets. Use the A to B switch to select the speaker set you want to listen to. If the switch is not engaged, you hear Speakers A. If A to B is engaged you hear Speakers B (the other set being automatically deactivated). Speakers: Dim The Dim switch reduces the monitoring level by -20 dB. Note: Both speaker outputs are muted if no input is selected.
Control Elements Artist Mode When you record other artists, you can give them their own headphone mix with Artist Mode and use the Talkback function by pressing the Talk button to communicate with them. The monitoring options for artists include: 1. Mic, Line and Instrument inputs in real time 2. DAW 1|2, to hear the current mix IMPORTANT: 3. DAW 3|4, for an alternative mix, with effects (a reverb, for example). In factory setting, the Artist Mode is deactivated via a DIP-Switch.
Control Elements Talkback Mic (Artist Mode) The Crimson 3 includes a built-in Talkback Mic so you don’t have to fiddle with an extra mic, cable or preamplifier. Press the Talk button and speak into the Talkback Mic – leave about 15" to 20" distance. The artist will hear you on Phones 2 and Speakers B. Speakers A will be dimmed automatically to avoid feedback. You control the amplification of the Talkback Mic signal with the TB Gain potentiometer at the front.
Control Elements Monitor Mix With the Monitor Mix control you create a monitor mix fast and easily. No need to fiddle with gain controls or faders, just blend between the Inputs (mic, line, instrument) and the DAW/Sources/Digital Input. The analog monitoring of all analog inputs and sources is absolutely latency-free, it is as real-time as it gets. In the center position (1:1), the volume of the analog inputs (mic, line, instrument) and DAW returns and sources is balanced.
Control Elements Phones The Crimson 3 has two independant high-quality headphone amplifiers. Use volume controls Phones 1 and Phones 2 to adjust the level of the headphones signal. Thanks to the separate headphone amplifiers there is no risk of any interferences when connecting two headphones. The outputs and gain ranges are designed for headphones with impedances from 20-600 ohms. For more details regarding the connection of headphones, refer to “Phones 1 and Phones 2” on page 18.
Control Elements Phonitor Matrix When listening to music with a traditional headphone amplifier, the right ear only perceives the right signal (red line) and the left ear only perceives the left signal (green line). In contrast to listening to speakers the delayed and quieter signal of the respective opposite side is missing. As a result to this super-stereo-effect reverb and delay effects as well as EQ and panorama adjustments are perceived more intense on headphones.
Control Elements Volume Use the Volume potentiometer to adjust the volume of both channels of Speakers A or B. The high-grade potentiometer regulates the audio signal directly to avoid any coloration/distortion typical of VCAs and DCAs, which either require higher inter-channel tolerances or have a tendency towards higher distortion. The Volume control uses a relative dB scale referenced to the input level. When set fully clockwise the input level is unity gain. The signal can be attenuated up to -78 dB.
Control Elements DIP switch on the bottom of the unit ON Six DIP switches are located on the bottom of the unit.
Calibration of the Monitoring System Calibration of the Monitoring System The input signal level of the Crimson 3 and the input sensitivity of the power amps or active speakers should be matched to ensure a proper overall gain. An inappropriate level matching results, for example, in a high monitoring level with a fairly low volume setting (at 9 o’clock). Likewise, settings above two o’clock should sound really loud, otherwise it is indicative of a matching problem.
Calibration of the Monitoring System Adjust the Volume control until the SPL meter reaches 83 dB with pink noise. Ideally, 83 dB SPL should be reached when the Volume control is near the 12 o’clock mark. You may mark position for 83 dB SPL. If it only reaches 83 dB SPL above two o’clock, increase the power amps’ or active loudspeakers’ input sensitivity (higher dB value).
Symbols Exclamation mark within a triangle An exclamation mark within a triangle is intended to make you aware of important operational advice and/or warnings that must be followed. Be especially attentive to these and always follow the advice they give. Lightning symbol within a triangle In this Manual a lightning symbol within a triangle warns you about the potential for dangerous electrical shocks – wich can also occur even after the device has been disconnected from a power source.
Security Advices Placement Place the unit on a leveled and stable surface. The unit’s enclosure is EMC-safe and effectively shielded against HF interference. Nonetheless, you should carefully consider where you place the unit to avoid electrical disturbances. It should be positioned so that you can easily reach it, read the meters and status LED’s well, but there are other considerations as well.
Security Advices Insertion of objects or fluids Be careful to not insert any object into any of the chassis openings. You can otherwise easily come into contact with dangerous voltage or cause a damaging short circuit. Never allow any fluids to be spilled or sprayed on the device. Such actions can lead to dangerous electrical shocks or fire! Air ventilation Chassis openings offer ventilation and serve to protect the device from overheating. Never cover or otherwise close off these openings.
Security Advices Electrical power Operate the device only from power sources that can provide proper power. When in doubt about a source, contact your dealer or a professional electrician. To be certain you have isolated the device, disconnect all power and signal connections. Make sure that the power supply plug is always accessible. When not using the device for a longer period, make sure to unplug it from your wall power socket.
Security Advices Lightning Before thunderstorms or other severe weather, disconnect the device from wall power; do not do this during a storm in order to avoid life threatening lightning strikes. Similarly, before any severe weather, disconnect all the power connections of other devices and antenna and phone/network cables which may be interconnected so that no lightning damage or overload results from such secondary connections.
Security Advices Repairs Unplug the unit from all power and signal connections and immediately contact a qualified technician when you think repairs are needed – or when moisture or foreign objects may accidentally have reached inside the housing, or in cases when the device may have fallen and shows any sign of having been damaged.
Security Advices Safety inspection Be sure always to ask a service technician to conduct a thorough safety check and ensure that the state of the repaired device is in all respects up to factory standards. Cleaning Do not use any solvents, as these can damage the chassis finish. Use a clean, dry cloth (if necessary, with an acid-free cleaning oil). Disconnect the device from your power source before cleaning.
Crimson 3 Declaration of CE Conformity The construction of this unit is in compliance with the standards and regulations of the European Community. Disclaimer Windows® is a registered trademark of Microsoft® Corporation in the United States and other countries. Apple, Mac and Macintosh are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. ASIO is a registered trademark of Steinberg Media Technologies GmbH.
Crimson 3 Notes on Environmental Protection At the end of its operating life, this product must not be disposed of with regular household waste but must be returned to a collection point for the recycling of electrical and electronic equipment. The wheelie bin symbol on the product, user’s manual and packaging indicates that. The materials can be reused in accordance with their markings.
Contact Contact SPL electronics GmbH Sohlweg 80 41372 Niederkrüchten Germany Phone +49 2163 9834-0 Fax +49 2163 9834-20 E-Mail: info@spl.info Or follow us on our Blog, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube: Website & Blog: spl.info Videos: youtube.spl.info Twitter: twitter.spl.info Facebook: facebook.spl.
