User Manual

11
Crimson
Sources 1, 2 and 3
Besides the SPDIF digital input you have three stereo source inputs with different connectors
at your disposal: Source input 1 via two mono jacks, Source input 2 via two RCA connectors,
Source input 3 via mini stereo jack.
This means you can connect up to four audio devices as playback sources, be it a CD or MP3
player, a tape machine or even a smartphone. Typical applications include the use of refe-
rence tracks to do A/B comparisons or playing an instrument on top of a song while listening
to it — everything without the need to connect the Crimson to a computer. The preamplifica-
tion of low level signals can prove very advantageous (see next section, Level Increase for
Source Inputs 2 and 3).
Source input 1: two jacks (L and R), balanced
Connect here signal sources with balanced connections, for example, a DA converter. If you
only connect the left channel, the signal is automatically placed as mono in the monitoring
path (in the center of the stereo image).
In ARTIST MODE you can use the L jack as Talkback by connecting a preamped mic signal.
When you engage the JACK (TALK) switch, the Talkback signal is mixed in Phones 2 and
Speaker B.
Specifications: 1/4" jack, balanced (Sleeve=Ground, Tip=hot, Ring=cold), input impedance:
10kOhm unbalanced, 20kOhm balanced, maximum input level +22.5 dBu.
Source input 2: RCA, unbalanced
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.
Specifications: RCA connector, input impedance: 10kOhm, maximum input level +22.5 dBu.
Source input 3: mini stereo jack, unbalanced
The mini stereo jack input is the natural input for all MP3 players, tablets, smartphones and
laptops. iPads and iPhones can also be connected via USB (Apple Class 2).
Specifications: 1/8" stereo jack, input impedance: 10kOhm, maximum input level +22.5 dBu.
Level Increase for Source Inputs 2 and 3
The Crimson includes a preamp for RCA and minijack input signals. Consumer level from the
RCA connector with -10dBV is increased to the professional level of 0dBu. Minijack signals are
amplified 15dB to reach professional level.
The preamp is activated by default so that weak signals are directly comparable with profes-
sional level signals.
If you want to deactivate the preamp, when the signals are too loud for instance, use the DIP
switches on the bottom of the unit.
On the bottom there are four switches that are assigned to the inputs in pairs:
1. DIP switches 1 and 2 for the RCA connectors (switches are ordered 1-4)
2. DIP switches 3 and 4 for the minijack (switches are ordered 1-4)
If you want to deactivate the preamping for the RCA connectors:
• DIP switches 1 and 2 up (ON)
If you want to deactivate the preamping for the minijack:
• DIP switches 3 and 4 up (ON)
Rear Panel: Analog Connections
Bal.
TRS
Mono
Talk In
Use
3.5mm
Stereo
Jack
L
R
R L/R
L/R
L
Sources
Sources