ALLEN & HEATH ML4000 User manual

USER GUIDE
Publication AP4314
Dual Function Live Sound Console

2ML4000 User Guide
Introduction
This user guide presents a quick reference to the ML4000. We recommend that you read this fully
before starting. Included is information on installing, connecting and operating the console, panel
drawings, system block diagram and technical specification. For further information on the basic
principles of audio system engineering, please refer to one of the specialist publications available
from bookshops and audio equipment dealers.
Whilst we believe the information in this guide to be reliable we do not assume responsibility for
inaccuracies. We also reserve the right to make changes in the interest of further product
development.
We are able to offer further product support through our world-wide network of approved dealers
and service agents. You can also access our Web site on the Internet for information on our
product range, assistance with your technical queries or simply to chat about matters audio. To
help us provide the most efficient service please keep a record of your console serial number, and
date and place of purchase to be quoted in any communication regarding this product. The serial
number is located on the rear panel.
Check out our home site for information on the company and its pedigree, our full product range
and our design philosophy. We also have a site dedicated to the exciting ML Series consoles.
www.allen-heath.com
www.mlseries.com
ML4000 User Guide AP4314 Issue 3
Copyright © 2001 Allen & Heath Limited. All rights reserved
Manufactured in the United Kingdom by Allen & Heath Limited
Kernick Industrial Estate, Penryn, Cornwall, TR10 9LU, UK
http://www.allen-heath.com

ML4000 User Guide 3
Contents
Introduction .......................................................... 2
Warranty .............................................................. 4
Important Safety Instructions............................... 5
Mains Plug Wiring Instructions ............................ 6
General Precautions ............................................ 6
ML4000 Key Features ......................................... 7
Quick Start Sheet................................................. 8
System Block Diagram ...................................... 10
Technical Specifications .................................... 12
The Range ......................................................... 13
Installation Details.............................................. 13
Connecting the Power Supply ........................... 14
Turning the Console On or Off .......................... 14
Earthing.............................................................. 15
Rear Panel Connections.................................... 16
Audio Connector Types and Wiring................... 18
Gain Structure.................................................... 19
Control Layout and Description ......................... 20
Mono Input and EQ............................................ 22
Using the Equaliser............................................ 23
Channel Group / Auxiliary Sends ...................... 24
Channel Internal Link Options ........................... 25
Using the GRP/AUX Sends ............................... 25
Channel Main Mix and Fader ............................ 26
Removing the Fader .......................................... 27
Checking the Channel Signal Level .................. 27
Using LCRplus™ ............................................... 28
Stereo Input and EQ .......................................... 30
Using the Dual Inputs ........................................ 31
Group / Aux Fader and Rotary Masters ............ 32
Configuring Groups and Auxes ......................... 34
Main Mix Masters............................................... 35
Using the Engineers Wedge Monitor ................ 35
Matrix ................................................................. 36
2-Track Output................................................... 37
VCA Groups....................................................... 38
VCA Groups Explained...................................... 38
Assigning VCA Groups...................................... 40
Mute Groups ...................................................... 41
Assigning Mute Groups ..................................... 41
Snapshot Memories........................................... 42
Channel Automation Safes................................ 42
Headphones / Local Monitor / PAFL ................. 43
Oscillator / Noise Generator .............................. 45
Intercom ............................................................. 46
Talkback............................................................. 47
Meterpod............................................................ 48
Meter Types....................................................... 49
MIDI Overview ................................................... 50
Changing the MIDI channel number ................. 50
MIDI Channel Mutes.......................................... 51
MIDI Snapshot Messages ................................. 51
MIDI AFL Messages .......................................... 51
Archiving the Console Settings ......................... 52
Operating System Technical Support ............... 53
Operating Software Version Number ................ 53
Loading New Operating Software ..................... 53
Console Reset ................................................... 53
Blank for User Notes ......................................... 54
Cue Sheet .......................................................... 55

4ML4000 User Guide
This product complies with the European Electromagnetic
Compatibility directives 89/336/EEC & 92/31/EEC and the
European Low Voltage Directives 73/23/EEC & 93/68/EEC.
This product has been tested to EN55103 Parts 1 & 2 1996 for use in
Environments E1, E2, E3, and E4 to demonstrate compliance with the
protection requirements in the European EMC directive 89/336/EEC. During
some tests the specified performance figures of the product were affected.
This is considered permissible and the product has been passed as
acceptable for its intended use.
Allen & Heath has a strict policy of ensuring all products are tested to the
latest safety and EMC standards. Customers requiring more information
about EMC and safety issues can contact Allen & Heath.
NOTE: Any changes or modifications to the console not approved by Allen &
Heath could void the compliance of the console and therefore the users
authority to operate it.
Limited One Year Warranty
This product has been manufactured in the UK by ALLEN & HEATH and is
warranted to be free from defects in materials or workmanship for period of one
year from the date of purchase by the original owner.
To ensure a high level of performance and reliability for which this equipment has
been designed and manufactured, read this User Guide before operating.
In the event of a failure, notify and return the defective unit to ALLEN & HEATH or
its authorised agent as soon as possible for repair under warranty subject to the
following conditions :
Conditions Of Warranty
1. The equipment has been installed and operated in accordance with the
instructions in this User Guide
2. The equipment has not been subject to misuse either intended or accidental,
neglect, or alteration other than as described in the User Guide or Service
Manual, or approved by ALLEN & HEATH.
3. Any necessary adjustment, alteration or repair has been carried out by ALLEN
& HEATH or its authorised agent.
4. The defective unit is to be returned carriage prepaid to ALLEN & HEATH or its
authorised agent with proof of purchase.
5. Units returned should be packed to avoid transit damage.
In certain territories the terms may vary. Check with your ALLEN & HEATH agent
for any additional warranty which may apply.

ML4000 User Guide 5
Important Safety Instructions
WARNINGS - Read the following before proceeding :
ATTENTION: RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE – NE PAS OUVRIR
Read instructions:Retain these safety and operating instructions for future reference. Adhere to
all warnings printed here and on the console power unit. Follow the operating
instructions printed in this user guide and the power unit user guide.
Do not remove covers:Operate the power unit with its covers correctly fitted. Refer any service work
to competent technical personnel only.
Power sources:Connect the power unit to a mains power only of the type described in this
User Guide and marked on the rear panel. Use the power cord with sealed
mains plug appropriate for your local mains supply as provided with the
console. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet consult your service
agent for assistance.
Power cord routing: Route the power cord so that it is not likely to be walked on, stretched or
pinched by items placed upon or against it.
Grounding:Do not defeat the grounding and polarisation means of the power cord plug.
Do not remove or tamper with the ground connection in the power cord.
Water and moisture:To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock do not expose the power unit or
console to rain or moisture or use it in damp or wet conditions. Do not place
containers of liquids on it which might spill into any openings.
Ventilation:Do not obstruct the ventilation slots or position the console or power unit
where the air flow required for ventilation is impeded. If the console is to be
operated in a flightcase ensure that it is constructed to allow adequate
ventilation.
Heat and vibration:Do not locate the power unit in a place subject to excessive heat or direct
sunlight as this could be a fire hazard. Locate the console and its power unit
away from any equipment which produces heat or causes excessive
vibration.
Servicing:Switch off the equipment and unplug the power cord immediately if it is
exposed to moisture, spilled liquid, objects fallen into the openings, the power
cord or plug become damaged, during lightening storms, or if smoke, odour
or noise is noticed. Refer servicing to qualified technical personnel only.
Installation:Install the console in accordance with the instructions printed in this User
Guide. Do not connect the output of power amplifiers directly to the console.
Use audio connectors and plugs only for their intended purpose.
CAUTION
WARNING: This equipment must be earthed.

6ML4000 User Guide
Important Mains Plug Wiring Instructions.
The power unit is supplied with a moulded mains plug fitted to the AC mains
power lead. Follow the instructions below if the mains plug has to be
replaced.
The mains lead wires are coloured in accordance with the following code:
WIRE COLOUR
TERMINAL
European USA/Canada
L LIVE BROWN BLACK
N NEUTRAL BLUE WHITE
E EARTH GND GREEN & YELLOW GREEN
The wire which is coloured Green and Yellow must be connected to the
terminal in the plug which is marked with the letter E or with the Earth symbol.
This appliance must be earthed.
The wire which is coloured Blue must be connected to the terminal in the plug
which is marked with the letter N.
The wire which is coloured Brown must be connected to the terminal in the
plug which is marked with the letter L.
Ensure that these colour codes are followed carefully in the event of the plug
being changed.
General Precautions
Damage : To prevent damage to the controls and cosmetics avoid placing heavy
objects on the control surface, scratching the surface with sharp objects, or
subjecting the console to rough handling and vibration.
Environment : Protect from excessive dirt, dust, heat and vibration when operating and
storing. Avoid tobacco ash, smoke, drinks spillage, and exposure to rain and
moisture. If the console becomes wet, switch off and remove mains power
immediately. Allow to dry out thoroughly before using again.
Radiation : To avoid induced noise and interference pickup do not operate the console
close to strong sources of electromagnetic radiation such as power supplies,
video monitors, lighting cables and dimmers.
Cleaning : Avoid the use of chemicals, abrasives or solvents. The control panel is best
cleaned with a soft brush and dry lint-free cloth. Stubborn marks can be
removed using a cloth dampened with isopropyl alcohol. Do not leave
marking tape stuck to the console for long periods of time as the adhesive
can degrade and leave a sticky residue. The faders, switches and
potentiometers are lubricated for life. The use of electrical lubricants on these
parts is not recommended. Refer to the power unit user guide for instructions
on cleaning its ventilation filters.
Transporting : The console should be transported in the original packing or purpose built
foam lined flightcase. Protect the control surface from damage during transit.
The console is a large and heavy item. To avoid injury ensure adequate man
power and precaution when lifting or moving the console.

ML4000 User Guide 7
ML4000 Key Features
The Allen & Heath ML4000 is a large format VCA equipped dual function live sound console
providing many of the features of its larger brother the ML5000. It can be quickly configured for
front-of-house (FOH) or stage monitor mixing. As one console suitable for both applications it is
equally well suited to installation, rental and touring. It offers an IO capability and feature set that
satisfies the latest trends in live sound engineering, in particular the growing number of inputs and
outputs for multi-speaker house and monitor systems, demands of stereo in-ear monitoring, 3
speaker LCR imaging, advanced grouping and automation. The design ensures on-the-road
durability, a clear layout for easy walk up and go operation, and no-compromise audio
performance.
Inputs and Outputs
•3 Standard frame sizes: 32+2, 40+2, 48+2 (mono + dual stereo channels)
•32, 40, 48 mono mic/line inputs with inserts and direct outputs
•2 dual stereo line inputs
•24 input sidecar to expand to a maximum 96 inputs
•Main Left, Right and Centre outputs with inserts, Centre configurable as the engineers monitor
•8 Groups, 12 Auxes: Group/Aux 1-8 and Aux 9-12 with faders and inserts, Aux 1-8 with rotaries
•11x4 Matrix
•2-Track monitor input and recording send
•Stereo headphones and local monitors
•Talkback mic input
•ClearCom compatible intercom interface
Groups and Automation
•8 VCA groups with mutes and PAFL monitoring
•8 audio groups with LCRplus™ sub grouping
•8 mute groups
•MIDI accessible snapshot memories
•MIDI mute on/off, snapshot recall and dump in/out control
•Channels can be made safe from the automation
Processing and Control
•4-Band full sweep mono EQ with switched Q mids, 4-band fixed frequency stereo EQ
•Sweepable high pass filter
•LCRplus™ 3 speaker imaging system
•Protected mode switching to configure the console for FOH or monitor application
•Intelligent PAFL system with all-clear, PFL/in-place AFL, priority, auto-cancel/add mode…
•Assignable talkback and intercom
•1kHz tone and pink noise generator for system line-up and testing
•Full console monitoring and extensive metering of inputs, mix busses and outputs

8ML4000 User Guide
QUICK START SHEET
Configure the Mode Switches :
Use a pen or pointed object to select the underpanel
mode switches.
FRONT-OF-HOUSE
AUX 1-8 = AUX 1-4 and 5-8 switchable pre or post-
fade. Rotary masters.
AUX 9-12 = Switchable pre or post-fade and mono
or stereo in pairs. Fader masters with inserts.
GROUP 1-8 = Audio groups with paired routing
switches. Fader masters with subgrouping and
matrix sends.
MONITOR
AUX 1-8 = Monitor mix 1-4 and 5-8 switchable pre
or post-fade. Fader masters with inserts. Group mix
on rotary masters.
AUX 9-12 = Monitor mix 9-12 switchable pre or
post-fade and mono or stereo in pairs. Fader
masters with inserts.
MAIN C OUT = Engineers wedge monitor.
DUAL MODE
Set the mode switches to configure fader masters 1-
8 in any combination of audio groups and aux
sends.
#
Using LCRplus™
PAN and BLEND = Two
controls adjust the balance
between L, R and C.
MAIN MIX = Routes the
channel to the main L,R,C
outputs.
MONO PA
PAN
BLEND
CLR
RL
LRC
LRC
PAN
BLEND
CLR
RL
LRC
PAN
BLEND
CLR
RL
LRC
PAN
BLEND
RL
CLR
STEREO+ FILL
STEREO PA LCR
Copy this sheet to keep with the console for guest user reference.
WEDGE
mode MONITOR
C
down
PAN
RL
=
LR C
BLEND
=
+
LCR MAIN
MIX
OO
AFL
+6
1
AUX
20
OO
30
EDIT/SAFE
0
10
5
5
SIG
-6
+6
0
PK
AFL
=
=
MUTE
L
LR
PAN
+
BLEND
LCR
R
TB
C
MAIN
MIX
MONITOR
FOH
mode
GROUP
AUX
OO
8
OO
7
OO
+6
+6
+6
6
MATRIX
INSERT
SUBGROUP
GROUP MIX GROUP OUT
AUX MIX AUX OUT

ML4000 User Guide 9
How to Assign a VCA or MUTE GROUP :
1. Press EDIT GROUP. The key flashes.
2. Press MUTE on the master you want to edit. It flashes.
3. Press the channel MUTE keys to assign or remove them
from the group.
4. Check which channels are assigned on the channel
SAFE/EDIT LEDs.
5. Press the next master to edit. Press EDIT GROUP when
finished to return to exit edit mode.
PRE-FADE SENDS
POST-FADE SENDS
PAN
CHANNEL
FADER
MASTER
FADER
CHANNEL
ASSIGN
AUDIO GROUP
PRE-FADE SENDS
POST-FADE SENDS
PAN MAIN MIX
R
L
C
+
VCA
CHANNEL
FADER
MASTER
FADER
CHANNEL
DC
ASSIGN
VCA GROUP
PAN MAIN MIX
R
L
C
INSERT
MATRIX SEND
AUDIO BUSS
DC VOLTAGE
SUBGROUP
PAFL
M
U
T
E
SAFE
EDIT
GROUP
SELECT GROUP TO EDIT
MUTE
ASSIGN US IN G CH M UTES
10
5
10
5
PAFL
MUTE
PK
-6
SIG
+6
0
SAFE/EDIT
16
12
0
3
6
3
12
15
18
9
6
27
30
24
21
9
16
1212
16
0
3
6
3
12
15
18
9
6
3
6
3
0
9
18
15
12
6
27
30
2424
30
27
off
21 21
AFL
CALL
off
99
PAFL
PFL
5
20 10 731035+
-
5
20 10 731035+
-
5
20 10 731035+
-
16
12
0
3
6
3
12
15
18
9
6
27
30
24
21
9
16
1212
16
0
3
6
3
12
15
18
9
6
3
6
3
0
9
18
15
12
6
27
30
2424
30
27
AFL-R
21 21
AFL
CALL
AFL-L
99
PAFL
AFL-M
5
20 10 731035+
-
5
20 10 731035+
-
5
20 10 731035+
-
16
12
0
3
6
3
12
15
18
9
6
27
30
24
21
9
AFL
CALL
PAFL
AFL
5
20 10 731035+
-
16
1212
16
0
3
6
3
12
15
18
9
6
3
6
3
0
9
18
15
12
6
27
30
2424
30
27
off
21 21
off
99
5
20 10 731035+
-
5
20 10 731035+
-
16
12
0
3
6
3
12
15
18
9
6
27
30
24
21
9
16
1212
16
0
3
6
3
12
15
18
9
6
3
6
3
0
9
18
15
12
6
27
30
2424
30
27
AFL-R
21 21
CALL
AFL-L
99
AFL-M
5
20 10 731035+
-
5
20 10 731035+
-
5
20 10 731035+
-AFL
PAFL
Using P/AFL :
Input PAFL = Select mono PFL or
stereo in-place AFL.
Output AFL = Press one for
mono, two together for stereo.
Input PAFL overrides output AFL.
Output AFL cancels input PAFL.
CLEAR
ALL
PFL / AFL
CANCEL
ADD MODE
AUTO
PFL
AFL
INPUT PAFL
IN-PLACE
Problems ?
The channel is routed but there is no
audio. If it is assigned to a VCA group
check that the group fader is up.
The audio groups do not work. Check
the setting of the fader master 1-8
GRP/AUX mode switches.
The PAN control does not work. For
main mix check the setting of the BLEND
control. For groups check the GRP PAN
ON switch.
The console takes a long time to
power up. Check the rear panel slide
switch setting. RS232 takes longer to
boot in than MIDI.
The channel does not respond to MIDI.
Check that it has not been made safe
(green SAFE/EDIT LED on in normal
console mode).
www.allen-heath.com

10 ML4000 User Guide
SYSTEM BLOCK DIAGRAM
+
-
INPUT
GAIN
+48V
PAD SEND
LF LM HF
EQ IN
4 BAND EQUALISER
METER
+
-
RETURN
INSERT
POST-EQ
PRE-EQ
PAN BLEND MIX
LRLRC
PRE-INSERT
PEAK
LCR+
POST-TRIM
PRE-FADE
POST-FADE
DIRECT OUT
(AUX1 ONLY)
POST-MUTE
PRE-FADE AUX
OPTION LINKS
OPTION LINKS
DIRECT OUT
AUX 1
AUX1
PRE
MONO CHANNEL
MUTE
FADER PAFL
MUTE GROUPS
VCA G RO U PS
PAFL LOGIC
VCA
J5
J4
J6
J9
J7 J8
J3
J2
J1
SNAPSHOTS
+
-
TRIM
+48V
TB MIC
TALK TO TB
+
OSC/NOISE TO TB
DIM
MONITOR DIM
TB
PINK NOISE
1kHz OSC
TRIM
Disable
OSC/NOISE/TALKBACK
TALK TO INTERCOM
MONITOR DIM
-
+
TRIM
SIDETONE LISTEN
TO PHONES
INTERCOM
CALL
+
-
INPUT B GAIN
LF
EQ IN
4 BAN D EQ UALISER
METER
POST-EQ
PRE-EQ
BAL BLEND
MAIN
MIX
LRLRC
+
+
L
R
C
PEAK
LCR+
PRE-FADE
POST-FADE
PRE
POST-MUTE
PRE-FADE AUX
OPTION LINKS
PRE
PRE
AUX11
STEREO CHANNEL
MUTE
FADER PAFL
MUTE GROUPS
VCA G RO U PS
PAFL LOGIC
VCA
J3
R= J2
SNAPSHOTS L AFL
PFL
R AFL
L MIX
R MIX
C MIX
AUX12
AUX11
+
-
+
-
GAIN
+
-
L
R
R
L
INPUT A
+
ON
ON
MONO L
MONO R
SOURCE
LM HM HF
+
+
L= J1
+
L
R
M
L
R
M
AUX12
11-12 LEV
STEREO
PAN
PRE
AUX11
AUX12 AUX11
AUX12
LEV 11-12
STEREO
PAN
J10
LAMP
INTERCOM IN/OUT
PFL
L MIX
R MIX
C MIX
HM
HPF IN
FREQ
FILTER
+
+
L
R
CL AFL
R AFL
GROUP
ASSIGN
GRP 1
GRP 2
GRP 3
GRP 4
GRP 5
GRP 6
GRP 7
GRP 8
PRE
AUX9
AUX10
AUX9
AUX10
LEV 9-10
STEREO
PAN
AUX 2
AUX2
AUX 3
AUX3
AUX 4
AUX4
AUX 5
AUX5
PRE
AUX 6
AUX6
AUX 7
AUX7
AUX 8
AUX8
1-2
3-4
5-6
7-8
GROUP
ASSIGN
GRP 1
GRP 2
GRP 3
GRP 4
GRP 5
GRP 6
GRP 7
GRP 8
1-2
3-4
5-6
7-8
AUX 5
AUX5
AUX 6
AUX6
AUX 7
AUX7
AUX 8
AUX8 AUX5 AUX6 AUX7 AUX8
AUX 5 AUX 6 AUX 7 AUX 8
PRE
AUX9
AUX10
AUX9
AUX10
9-10 LEV
STEREO
PAN