BeachTek DXA-FX User manual

Specifications
Gain Adjustable from -10 dB to +15 dB
Frequency response 20 Hz - 20 KHz, +/-3 dB (limiter on)
Output noise level less than -80 dBu
Input level before clipping +1.5 dBu (min gain with limiter on)
-27 dBu (max gain with limiter on)
Maximum output level -30 dBu (limiter off)
-36 dBu (limiter on)
Battery type / duration (1) 9 volt alkaline battery
10 hours typical
LED battery indicator
Current draw 35 mA typical
Case Powder coated aluminum
Dimensions 5.25” L x 2.5” W x 1.25” H
Weight 16 oz
Limited One Year Warranty
This warranty covers any defects or malfunction in your new BeachTek adapter
for one full year.
BeachTek will replace any defective or malfunctioning adapter, within the
warranty period, with a new unit at no charge. The warranty does not cover
damage resulting from accident, alteration, misuse or abuse. The device must
be sent to our service center at your expense.
Should you require service please contact us first before returning the unit to
us. Return instructions can be found on our website at www.beachtek.com/
questions.html
Upon receiving the returned adapter it will be inspected and replaced if found
defective. The unit will be shipped back to you within five business days at our
expense.
BeachTek Inc.
2120 Queen Street East, Suite 202
Toronto, Ontario M4E 1E2
tel [phone] • fax [phone]
email [email protected]
web www.beachtek.com
DXA-FX
Operating Instructions for the DXA-FX Adapter
• Before using this high quality device, please read this
operating manual thoroughly to obtain the highest performance.
• Please contact us if you have any problems or questions.
The BeachTek DXA-FX is a two channel, battery-powered micro-
phone adapter with built in preamplifiers and limiters specifically de-
signed for the Sony HDR-FX1 camcorder. This adapter is designed
to easily attach balanced or unbalanced type microphones to this
camcorder (condenser type microphones require their own power
as the adapter does not supply phantom power). The low noise
preamplifiers boost the audio level from virtually any microphone to
the “sweet spot” for improved signal to noise ratio. The fast acting
limiters virtually eliminate distortion from overly hot inputs.
The DXA-FX is very easy to set up and use, therefore it requires
a minimal amount of fuss. It fits ideally under the Sony HDR-FX1
camcorder and its rugged construction ensures years of use.

Rear Panel Controls and Connections
4. Limiter
Each channel has an independent limiter to prevent distortion
caused by excessively hot inputs. We recommend that this switch
be activated at all times to ensure clean, distortion free audio. When
activated, the corresponding LMT indicator will flash in proportion
to the amount of limiting. Set the gain control on the adapter so that
the indicators are flashing occasionally. Be sure that the camcorder
level is set to 3. The input signal level to the camcorder is set to a
maximum of -36dBu regardless of the input level to the adapter.
Verify that the red bar on the level meter does not activate, otherwise
reduce the gain using the AUDIO LEVEL control on the camcorder.
Once the camcorder and adapter gain controls are set correctly, you
will be ensured perfect audio levels every time.
5. XLR Inputs
The two XLR inputs can accept balanced or unbalanced
connections. To convert the input to unbalanced, simply ground pin 1
to 3 on the XLR input cable.
6. Output Cable
The attached shielded cable terminates in a gold plated, stereo
mini plug connector. Plug this into the microphone jack on your
camcorder as described above.
©2006 BeachTek Inc.
Front Panel Controls and Indicators
Mounting and Connection
Mount the DXA-FX securely to the tripod bushing on the under
side of your camcorder. Connect the cable from the DXA-FX to the
camcorder’s microphone jack. The camcorder’s onboard microphone
should now be disabled.
Camera Setup
Set the audio mode switch on the back of the camcorder to MAN
to deactivate the AGC. Turn the AUDIO LEVEL thumbwheel on the
camcorder to 3 on the dial. Set the input level on the camera menu to
EXT MIC. You are now ready to attach external microphones to the
adapter.
Adapter Controls and Connectors
1. Power
Install a fresh 9 volt alkaline battery in the adapter. Turn on the
PWR switch to activate the unit. The center LED should light to
indicate good battery power. Turn off power when not in use to
conserve battery power
2. MONO / STEREO Switch
Set the switch to MONO if using a single microphone. Set it to
STEREO when using two microphones.
3. Gain Control
Each channel of the DXA-FX has a gain control to provide the
optimum amount of amplification for your particular microphone. Note
that even with the gain setting fully counter clockwise for minimum
gain, you will still get some audio signal.
Set the gain control on the adapter for the desired volume level
on the camcorder. Sensitive condenser type microphones like the
popular Sennheiser ME66 will require a minimum amount of gain
while most dynamic type microphones require maximum amount of
gain. Use the level indicator on the camera as a guide. Be sure not
to activate the red bar on the level meter to avoid distortion. See the
limiter description for information on proper gain setting when the
limiter is active.