Alldsp SMA-4P2408 User manual

ALLDSP SMA-4P2408
User Manual
for
ALLDSP SMA-4P2408
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ALLDSP SMA-4P2408
Introduction
Congratulations on the purchase of your SMA-4P2408. ALLDSP strives to be the best in high end digital
audio processing. After you have become familiar with your System Amplifier, we encourage you to
experiment and find the most effective and efficient way to run your system by utilizing the powerful
processing of the SMA-4P2408.
The SMA-4P2408 is a powerful System Amplifier with four analog inputs, two AES3 inputs, two Dante inputs,
four outputs (2x2400W + 2x800W @ 4 Ohms), 10 PEQ bands per input and output and a frequency range up
to 40kHz. The rugged analog input stage accepts input voltages of up to +23dBu thus matching any source
on the market today, with an excellent dynamic range of 118dB. Using a switch-mode power supply for clean
power supply rails and superior ruggedness, 64-bit digital processing and some of the best converters
available on the market today, the SMA-4P2408 offers sound quality that sets standards in professional as
well as high-end home audio.
This User Manual describes how to operate the SMA-4P2408's settings via the front panel controls.
Alternatively, the SMA-4P2408 can be configured completely via a remote connection to a PC, MAC, iPad or
iPhone. Please refer to the Software User Manual for details on the remote control application.
Controlled via the front panel or via the remote control application, the DSP settings and coefficients are
calculated on-the-fly at the moment of changing the parameters. Frequencies can be set with 1Hz accuracy,
delays with 10 microseconds accuracy, and gains with 0.01dB accuracy. When editing values via the front
panel, some values are limited in granularity; e.g. gain is set via 0.25dB steps in this case.
Features:
- 2x2400W plus 2x800W output power @ 4 ohms, 2x1500W plus 2x500W output power @ 8 ohms
- 2 DANTE inputs
- 118dB dynamic range (inputs) / 114dB dynamic range (outputs)
- Electronically balanced inputs
- Matched-impedance outputs
- Frequency range 20Hz....40kHz
- 10 parametric filters per input and output
- EQs can be set as Bell, High Shelf, Low Shelf, Notch, Allpass, Band Pass, High Pass, Low Pass
- 2000ms delay per input, 2000ms delay per output
- Butterworth, Bessel, Linkwitz-Riley filters up to 24dB / oct.
- True RMS Compressor
- Zero Attack Peak Limiter
- Latency 660 microseconds
- Full configuration and real-time monitoring via PC, MAC, iPad or iPhone
- 100 Presets
- 64 bits multi-mode digital processing
- Loudspeaker Library support
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ALLDSP SMA-4P2408
Safety Instructions
WARNING, FOR YOUR PROTECTION READ THE FOLLOWING: The apparatus shall not be exposed to
dripping or splashing liquid and no object filled with liquid, such as vases, shall be placed on the apparatus.
CLEAN ONLY WITH A DRY CLOTH. DO NOT BLOCK ANY VENTILATION OPENINGS. INSTALL IN
ACCORDANCE WITH THE MANUFACTURERS INSTRUCTIONS. DO NOT INSTALL NEAR ANY HEAT
SOURCES SUCH AS RADIATORS, HEAT REGISTERS, STOVES, OR OTHER APPARATUS (INCLUDING
AMPLIFIERS) THAT PRODUCE HEAT. ONLY USE ATTACHMENTS/ACCESSORIES SPECIFIED BY THE
MANUFACTURER. UNPLUG THIS APPARATUS DURING LIGHTNING STORMS OR WHEN UNUSED
FOR LONG PERIODS OF TIME. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A
polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding type plug has two blades and a
third grounding prong. The wide blade or third prong is provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not
fit your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet. Protect the power cord from being
walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the
apparatus. Use only with the cart stand, tripod bracket, or table specified by the manufacture, or sold with the
apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury from
tip-over. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been
damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have
fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or
has been dropped. POWER ON/OFF SWITCH: If the equipment has a Power switch, the Power switch used
in this piece of equipment DOES NOT break the connection from the mains. MAINS DISCONNECT: The plug
shall remain readily operable. For rack mount or installation where plug is not accessible, an all-pole mains
switch with a contact separation of at least 3 mm in each pole shall be incorporated into the electrical
installation of the rack or building. FOR PRODUCTS EQUIPPED WITH EXTERNALLY ACCESSIBLE FUSE
RECEPTACLE: Replace fuse with same type and rating only. MULTIPLE-INPUT VOLTAGE: This equipment
may require the use of a different line cord, attachment plug, or both, depending on the available power
source at installation. Connect this equipment only to the power source indicated on the equipment rear
panel. To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, refer servicing to qualified service personnel or equivalent.
If connected to 240V supply, a suitable CSA/UL certified power cord shall be used for this supply. This
equipment is intended for rack mount use only.
WARNING: THIS APPLIANCE SHALL BE CONNECTED TO A MAINS SOCKET OUTLET WITH A
PROTECTIVE EARTHING CONNECTION. The cores in the mains lead are colored in accordance with the
following code: GREEN and YELLOW - Earth; BLUE - Neutral; BROWN - Live. As colors of the cores in the
mains lead of this appliance may not correspond with the colored markings identifying the terminals in your
plug, proceed as follows: The core which is colored green and yellow must be connected to the terminal in
the plug marked with the letter E, or with the earth symbol, or colored green, or green and yellow. The core
which is colored blue must be connected to the terminal marked N or colored black. The core which is
colored brown must be connected to the terminal marked L or colored red. This equipment may require the
use of a different line cord, attachment plug, or both, depending on the available power source at installation.
If the attachment plug needs to be changed, refer servicing to qualified service personnel who should refer to
the table below. The green/yellow wire shall be connected directly to the product's chassis.
WARNING: If the ground is defeated, certain fault conditions in the processor or in the system to which it is
connected can result in full line voltage between chassis and earth ground. Severe injury or death can then
result if the chassis and earth ground are touched simultaneously. The symbols shown above are
internationally accepted symbols that warn of potential hazards with electrical products. The lightning flash
with arrow point in an equilateral triangle means that there are dangerous voltages present within the
processor. The exclamation point in an equilateral triangle indicates that it is necessary for the user to refer to
the owner’s manual. These symbols warn that there are no user serviceable parts inside the processor.
Do not open the processor. Do not attempt to service the processor yourself. Refer all servicing to qualified
personnel. Opening the chassis for any reason will void the manufacturer’s warranty. Do not get the
processor wet. If liquid is spilled on the processor, shut it off immediately and take it to a dealer for service.
Disconnect the processor during storms to prevent damage.
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ALLDSP SMA-4P2408
1. Overview of Connectors and Controls
In addition to the available features described in this manual, you also have the option of controlling the
processor remotely over your network. Please refer to the Software Manual for details.
1.1. Front Panel
1.1.1. Input VU Meters
There are four independent input meters available. The LEDs indicate the signal level at the inputs, in dBu,
after the input gain faders. The Peak LED lights when the input level exceeds +20dBu, and blinks slowly
when the input is muted.
1.1.2. Function Buttons: Menu, Exit
Press the Menu button to enter the System Menu. Press Exit to go one level up in the system menu or in the
channel menu.
See section three for a detailed description on the functions of each of these buttons.
1.1.3. Rotary Encoders
The rotary encoders have several functions, depending on the currently visible menu item on the LCD
display.
In the default state, push the encoder to mute or unmute the corresponding input. Push and hold the encoder
to enter the channel menu.
When setting items in the channel menu (e.g. gains etc), pushing a rotary encoder selects the corresponding
channel and shows the parameter on the screen.
When editing the system menu, only the encoder for channel 1 is active and is used to navigate the menu.
When values are changed, the DSP is updated in real-time.
1.1.4. Power Switch
The Power Switch turns the SMA-4P2408 on and off. Note: The power switch is not a hard mains switch.
When powered off, the amplifier still consumes some power. To completely power off the amplifier,
disconnect the mains cord.
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ALLDSP SMA-4P2408
1.2. Rear Panel
1.2.1. Power Connector
The SMA-4P2408 has an internal power supply that will accept voltages ranging from 100V - 240V at
frequencies from 50Hz-60Hz. A power cord is included.
1.2.2. Ethernet Connector
This RJ-45 connector is used to connect your product to a network. It can then be configured and controlled
in real time with our PC and MAC configuration program, or with our iPad / iPhone control software (available
on the Apple App Store). From the PC or MAC you can also update your System Amplifier to the latest
firmware. Please check our website regularly for updates.
1.2.3. DANTE Inputs
The SMA-4P2408 offers two Dante input channels. No separate connector is needed; the SMA-4P2408 uses
one Ethernet connection for Dante signals and Command & Control signals. The System Amplifier will accept
sample rates of 44.1, 48, 88.2, and 96kHz. The Dante inputs can be configured though Audinate's Dante
Controller Software. An internal asynchronous sample rate converter (ASRC) converts the sample rate to the
SMA-4P2408's native sample rate, thus preserving the highest possible processing quality even when
running off a 44.1kHz digital signal.
1.2.4. Analog inputs
The analog input section of the SMA-4P2408 offers four electronically balanced XLR connectors. The input
level is +23dBu max, electronically balanced.
1.2.5. AES3 Inputs
The digital input of the SMA-4P2408 offers two input channels on one electronically balanced XLR connector.
The input will accept AES3 input signals at 44.1, 48, 88.2, or 96kHz. An internal asynchronous sample rate
converter (ASRC) converts the sample rate to the SMA-4P2408's native sample rate, thus preserving the
highest possible processing quality even when running off a 44.1kHz digital signal.
1.2.6. Loudspeaker Outputs
The output section of the SMA-4P2408 offers four output channels, connected via 2 Speakon output
connectors. Channels 1 and 3 are connected to Speakon connector 'Out 1', and channels 2 and 4 to
connector 'Out 2'. This enables you to connect multi-way systems through a single multi-core Speakon cable,
while linking stereo channels. Typically, one would use channels 1 and 2 for Left Sub and Right Sub, etc.
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ALLDSP SMA-4P2408
2. Getting Started
2.1. Quick Start
For those of you that wish to jump right in, the following information has been provided to act as a quick start
guide for optimizing performance of your System Amplifier.
2.2. Connections
When setting up your System Amplifier, make connections as follows:
2.2.1. Signal Connections
- Always make input connections prior to applying power to the System Amplifier.
- Connect the output(s) from the sending device (mixer) to the Ch. 1 XLR input connector (mono) or both, Ch.
1 and Ch. 2 XLR input connectors (stereo).
- Switch your SMA-4P2408 on and make sure the inputs are muted (all 4 Peak LEDs on the front panel are
blinking).
- Make output connections from the output Speakon connector(s) to your loudspeakers.
Always make sure that your power amps are the last item turned on and the first turned off.
Once all of the connections have been made, and the SMA-4P2408 is powered up, you can navigate through
the input signal path of your System Amplifier from the front panel. The display provides you with a clear and
concise overview of each aspect of the signal path. To set loudspeaker configurations (output settings),
please use the remote control software as described in our Software Manual which can be downloaded from
our website.
2.2.2. Remote Monitoring and Control
For the quickest and easiest results we recommend to install and use our freely available iPad, iPhone, PC or
MAC configuration software. It provides a complete and comprehensive tool to make your loudspeaker
configuration settings, and to manage your presets.
When connecting the SMA-4P2408 via an Ethernet network, you have several options. The PC/MAC
application has an auto-discovery tool that will automatically connect to any unit found on the network.
Please refer to the Software Manual available on our website for details on the control software.
Note: Please make sure there is only one device (Windows PC, MAC PC or iOS device) running the ALLDSP
software at any time. The software can control as many devices simultaneously as the network can handle. In
a typical (default) DHCP configuration, this is 200 units.
2.2.2.1. Standard DHCP Network
This is the recommended connection method. For plug-and-play connection, use a standard Ethernet Router,
plug in the unit and your computer, and the connection should be made automatically. Standard routers have
a DHCP server built in and enabled. A DHCP server assigns a network address to your computer and to the
SMA-4P2408, allowing them to connect automatically.
2.2.2.2. Connection without DHCP server
Alternatively, you can use a direct (cross) cable or a simple Ethernet Switch to connect the unit to your PC or
MAC. Please note that in this case, especially Windows computers running Windows XP may take up to
several minutes to assign themselves a network address (indicated by the text: "This connection has limited
or no connectivity"). The computer and the SMA-4P2408 both will assign themselves a network address in
the ZeroConfig range (169.254.0.0 - 169.254.255.255), and the SMA-4P2408 will be discovered
automatically by the PC/MAC application. To facilitate connections without DHCP router, it may be
convenient to set your computer to a fixed IP address. If you do this, please choose any address in the
ZeroConfig range, and set the subnet mask to 255.255.0.0.
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ALLDSP SMA-4P2408
2.2.2.3. Fixed IP address
It is also possible to set a fixed IP address and subnet mask for the SMA-4P2408. WARNING: If you set a
wrong address (in a different range than your computer), you may not be able to connect anymore. It is
strongly recommended to consult a system administrator before making such settings. It is not possible to set
the IP address via the front panel menu. If you have set a fixed IP address and subnet mask, you must set
your computer to an address within the same subnet. To verify this, you can read out the IP address via the
local LCD display: Press "Menu" 4 times, then press the rotary encoder until the IP address and subnet mask
appear.
2.2.2.4. Firewall
After starting the software application for the first time, your computer may ask you to allow or block the
application access to the network. Please make sure to allow this; if there is a firewall between the application
and the SMA-4P2408, the application will not find the SMA-4P2408.
2.3. System Setup and Gain Structure
This product offers a wide range of tools for sound system design and setup. These tools can make your
system more efficient and better sounding, but to get the best possible sound it is important to use these tools
properly.
The following section explains how to maximize system gain and how to use the limiters to protect your
System Amplifier from clipping. In traditional system design, the output of your console would be routed to a
system EQ, a compressor, and a crossover with output level control. From the crossover, there may be
additional filters that are employed to improve the response of your speakers. There may also be
compressors and limiters set up to keep your amplifiers from going into clipping and protect your speakers
from the hazards of a clipped signal. All of these functions are available in the DSP of your SMA-4P2408.
Please refer to our software manual for details on these settings.
Your amplifiers play a vital role in system setup, because they are last item in the chain before your speakers
and offer the greatest amount of gain (that is their job after all). If your limiters and amplifiers are incorrectly
setup you will not be using your system to its fullest potential and could be harming your speakers.
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ALLDSP SMA-4P2408
3. Setup And Operation
Before plugging the System Amplifier in, always make sure that the power supply matches the product
specification voltage. Install this device on a flat, stable surface, not bent or curved. Do not supply power
before all components of the system are set up and connected properly. Make sure your power amplifiers are
switched on last in order to avoid transients, which could damage your speakers or annoy your audience.
3.1. System Check
After connecting all cables, you should mute all outputs first or turn the gain/level setting on your amplifiers to
minimum. Activate the HF-outputs first. In case of wrong cabling, High Frequency (HF) audio signals will
come out of bass-speakers that cannot be harmed this way. Vice versa, the Low Frequency (LF) audio
signals would destroy your HF-speakers. It is advisable to install a large capacitor in series with HF drivers
(47 - 100 uF). That way, drivers are somewhat protected against accidental instrumentation errors.
3.2. Input Setup
Press and hold the rotary encoder to select the input channel you wish to edit. To toggle through the different
items, turn the rotary encoder. To go one level down in the menu, press the rotary encoder. To go one level
up in the menu, press the Exit button.
3.2.1. Gain
Adjust the gain by dialing the rotary encoder. The gain is adjusted in steps of 0.25dB. Smaller steps (0.01dB)
can be set via the PC or MAC interface.
3.2.2. Input Selection
Select the source (Analog, AES3 or Dante) by rotating the encoder.
3.2.3. Delay
Set the delay time by turning the encoder. Select the displayed unit (ms or s, mm or m, feet, inches, or mils)
by pushing the encoder.
3.2.4. Low Pass Filter
Adjust the Low Pass Filter frequency by turning the rotary encoder. You can switch the low pass filter off by
turning the rotary encoder up (clockwise) until the frequency passes 20kHz.
Press the rotary encoder to change the filter type. Select the type by turning the rotary encoder. You can
choose from: Butterworth 6dB, Bessel 6dB, Butterworth 12dB, Bessel 12dB, Linkwitz Riley12dB, Butterworth
18dB, Bessel 18dB, Butterworth 24dB and Bessel 24dB. Higher order filters may be set by adding filter
sections in the PEQ blocks (see below).
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ALLDSP SMA-4P2408
3.2.5. High Pass Filter
Adjust the high pass frequency by dialing the rotary encoder. You can switch the high pass filter off by dialing
the rotary encoder down (counterclockwise) until the frequency passes 20Hz.
Press the rotary encoder to change the filter type. Select the type by turning the rotary encoder. You can
choose from: Butterworth 6dB, Bessel 6dB, Butterworth 12dB, Bessel 12dB, Linkwitz Riley12dB, Butterworth
18dB, Bessel 18dB, Butterworth 24dB and Bessel 24dB. Higher order filters may be set by adding filter
sections in the PEQ blocks (see below).
3.2.6. Parametric Equalizer (PEQ)
There are 10 bands of parametric equalization. Each band can be adjusted freely over the frequency range of
20Hz to 20kHz. Adjust the frequency by dialing the rotary encoder.
Press the rotary encoder to select the parameters. The available parameters are: Frequency (20Hz to
20kHz), Gain (-12dB to +12dB), Q (0.2 to 25), Enabled (On or Off), Type (Bell, High Shelf, Low Shelf, Notch,
All Pass, Band Pass, High Pass, Low Pass). For the Shelving filters, the Q value sets the steepness of the
filter in dB/Oct.
3.2.7. Compressor
The compressor is a true RMS compressor. Turn the rotary encoder to set the threshold. Press the rotary
encoder to select the parameters. The available parameters are: Threshold, Attack, Hold, Release, Ratio,
and Makeup Gain.
3.2.8. Limiter
The limiter is a zero-attack peak limiter. Only the threshold and release can be set. Press the rotary encoder
to select the parameters. The release value is displayed in dB per second.
3.2.9. Channel Link
By linking 2 channels, the settings are guaranteed to be identical for both channels, except for mixer and
mute. Turn the encoder to set the Channel Link on or off.
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ALLDSP SMA-4P2408
3.3. System Menu
Push the Menu button to enter the system menu. Push the Menu button again to toggle through the menu
items. The available menu items are:
3.3.1. Load Preset
Turn the rotary encoder to select the preset you wish to load. Push the rotary encoder to select it, then turn it
again to select "YES" and confirm again by pushing the rotary encoder knob. The preset is loaded and all
settings are applied immediately. All settings that were in the unit prior to loading the preset will be erased.
This action can not be undone.
The presets contain all filter, dynamics, gain settings etc; in other words, everything that makes out a
loudspeaker configuration. Presets do NOT contain the name of the unit, network configuration, automatic
standby delay, user access rights and passwords.
3.3.2. Save Preset
Turn the rotary encoder to select the location of the preset. If that location is not empty, the preset in that
location will be overwritten. This action can not be undone.
The system will ask you to give a name to the preset name. Select a character in the cursor position by
turning the rotary encoder; pushing the rotary encoder confirms the character selected and moves the cursor
to the next character to edit. Pushing the exit/ESC button erases the last confirmed character. Once the
name is set up, push the menu button again. If you want to continue storing the preset, select Yes by turning
the rotary encoder and confirm by pushing it. To cancel, push the exit button. Now your preset is saved in
the selected location.
The presets contain all filter, dynamics, gain settings etc; in other words, everything that makes out a
loudspeaker configuration. Presets do NOT contain the name of the unit, network configuration, automatic
standby delay, user access rights and passwords.
3.3.3. Access Level
The SMA-4P2408 has the option of locking away the front panel controls to avoid tampering of settings by
unauthorized persons. To lock the unit, select "Locked" by turning the rotary encoder, and push it to confirm.
The system will ask you to enter a password. Select a character in the cursor position by turning the rotary
encoder; pushing the rotary encoder confirms the character selected and moves the cursor to the next
character to edit. Pushing the exit/ESC button erases the last confirmed character. Once the password is set
up, push the menu button again and the unit will be locked.
ATTENTION: Make sure to remember the password! When the unit is locked and you forgot the password, it
is not possible to unlock it without contacting your local service representative.
To unlock the unit select "Unlocked" and enter the password. The password is automatically checked after
each entered character, and the unit will exit the system menu when the password is confirmed.
The default password is "Password".
3.3.4. Version Information
By pushing the rotary encoder, the display toggles through the version information about the unit (serial
number, firmware version), as well as some parameters like IP address, subnet mask, MAC address etc.
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ALLDSP SMA-4P2408
Appendix A: Declaration Of Conformity
DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
ALLDSP GmbH & Co. KG
Kueferstrasse 18
59067 Hamm
Germany
declares that the product: SMA-4P2408
conforms to the following Product Specifications:
Safety: IEC 60065 -01+Amd 1
EMC : EN 55022:2006
EN 55103 -1, -2 2008
EN 55024:1998
FCC Part 15
Supplementary Information:
The product herewith complies with the requirements of the:
Low Voltage Directive 2006/95/EC
EMC Directive 2004/108/EC.
RoHS Directive 2002/95/EC
WEEE Directive 2002/96/EC
With regard to Directive 2005/32/EC and EC Regulation 1275/2008 of 17 December 2008, this product is
designed, produced, and classified as Professional Audio Equipment and thus is exempt from this Directive.
A molded mains plug that has been cut off from the cord is unsafe. Discard the mains plug at a suitable
disposal facility. NEVER UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES SHOULD YOU INSERT A DAMAGED OR CUT
MAINS PLUG INTO A POWER SOCKET. Do not use the mains plug without the fuse cover in place.
Replacement fuse covers can be obtained from your local retailer. Only use replacement fuses that are
identical to the original fuse.
If you want to dispose this product, do not mix it with general household waste. There is a separate collection
system for used electronic products in accordance with legislation that requires proper treatment, recovery
and recycling. Private household in the 25 member states of the EU, in Switzerland and Norway may return
their used electronic products free of charge to designated collection facilities or to a retailer (if you purchase
a similar new one). For Countries not mentioned above, please contact your local authorities for a correct
method of disposal. By doing so you will ensure that your disposed product undergoes the necessary
treatment, recovery and recycling and thus prevent potential negative effects on the environment and human
health.
ELECTROMAGNETIC COMPATIBILITY
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules and 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 processor within significant electromagnetic fields should be avoided.
- use only shielded interconnecting cables.
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