CARVIN XP650 User manual

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of Carvin’s XP650 mixer! The XP650 model
includes 2 built-in high power amplifiers for direct hook-up to your speakers. Please read this
manual carefully to take all the advantages of your new mixer.
SUPERB SOUND is derived from the extremely low distortion, high "Headroom" design.
State-of-the art, low noise, balanced XLR preamps from our Concert Series mixers provide
common mode rejection of better than 78 dB, which means that any possible noise that may
come over your cables is virtually eliminated. Distortion is nearly non-existent with THD below
0.1% from input to output, guaranteeing the purity of your sound. Hear the difference - your
sound will not seem "sterile" or "processed". It will be dynamically open and transparent just
like it was meant to be!
LIGHT WEIGHT and EASY TO USE Controls are logically laid out making the XP
Series simple to use, reducing errors during setup and perfomance. Its compact size and
weight of only 20 lbs. makes it the lightest, most powerful mixer of its kind. No other manu-
facturer offers a higher performance to weight ratio!
TWO HIGH CURRENT AMPLIFIERS Choose between a total of 500 watts delivered
to your main speakers, or with the touch of a button, use 250watts for the mains and 250watts
for monitors. This is the kind of output that maintains the purity and integrity of your sound.
1/4” and Speakon™ output connectors are provided for secure connections with maximum
power transfer to your speakers. An output meter and clip indicator for each amp give you a
visual indicator of each amp.
A HIGH CURRENT POWER SUPPLY starts with a toroid transformer to assure con-
tinuous high amperage DC voltage to both power amplifiers to eliminate "overload" or shutdown.
20,000 mfd capacitors offer a large power reservoir for deep bass output.
24-Bit STEREO DSP EFFECTS 256 effect variations including reverb, chorus, flange
and echo, with fully adjustable parameters for; damping, decay,depth, speed, regeneration
and time. Assign each channel a seperate effect level with the send. Effects are adjustable to
your stage monitors so you can hear yourself with full effects.
ACTIVE 3 BAND CHANNEL EQ provides easy adjustment for the tone you want. The
80 Hz LO frequency controls deliver solid non-flabby bass. A simple adjustment with the MID
band control brings out the best sound for vocals or guitar by affecting the very important
750Hz frequency range. The 11.5k Hz HI treble control adds sparkle to your top-end without
adding harshness. Both the LO and HI controls are "shelving", which means they are effective
from 20Hz to 20kHz.
TWO 7 BAND EQUALIZERS provide precise adjustments to fine tune your overall
sound and to help control feedback. One graphic equalizer controls the main outputs, and a
seperate equalizer controls the monitor outputs.
ENGINEERED TO LAST Every XP Series mixer incorporates a rugged injection mold-
ed case and steel chassis. Continuous full power is assured from a high-grade 6063-T5-alu-
minum heat sink cooled by a variable speed fan. Sealed controls and switches guard against
the outside elements while heavy-duty connectors provide a positive connection to your
cables. Hidden deep in the heart of these mixers is the “SMT” Surface Mount Technology
construction that utilizes surface mounted components to prevent parts from shaking or
vibrating loose. Precision 1% tolerances guarantee that your settings will be accurate every
time. Fire retardant FR-4 militaryspec circuit cards feature double-sided copper construction
to guard against noise and radio frequencies (RF). The XP Series is professionally made in the
USA for years of dependable service!
MAIN
MON
EFF
MONITOR
LEVEL and
SUMMING AMP
MONITOR
BALANCED OUT
TO INTERNAL 
MONITOR AMP
MAIN 
BALANCED OUT
EFFECTS
SUMMING AMP
INTERNAL
DSP INPUT
EXTERNAL
SEND
STEREO
EFFECTS 
TO MAIN
RETURN FROM
INTERNAL DSP
EFFECTS TO
MONITOR
TAPE OUT
LEVEL
MAIN LEVEL
and SUMMING AMP
AMP
ASSIGN
SWITCH
THREE BAND 
TONE 
CONTROLS
PAD
HI LOW
MIC
PRE
LEVEL
MONITOR
CHANNELS 1-5
MID
MIC
LINE
GAIN EFF
GRAPHIC 
EQUALIZER
GRAPHIC 
EQUALIZER TO INTERNAL 
MAIN AMP
THREE BAND 
TONE 
CONTROLS
PAD
HI LOW
MIC
PRE
LEVEL
MONITOR
CHANNEL 6
MID
MIC
LINE
GAIN EFF
MUSIC
BREAK
SWITCH
TAPE IN
TAPE OUT
12340 World Trade Drive, San Diego, CA 92128
76-0065000B 2/28/05
MODEL XP650 SPECIFICATIONS:
Frequency Response: Mic or Line Inputs: 20Hz-20kHz ±1dB
Total Harmonic Distortion: Less than .1% at nominal levels
Equivalent Input Noise: 150 ohm source: -117dBu
Output Noise: -90dBu Master Line Out
(All Levels Minimum)
Output Headroom: +20dB
Maximum Gain: Mic in to Master Line Out: 70dB
Crosstalk: Adjacent ch’s: -60db at 1KHz
Common Mode Rejection: -78db at 1KHz
Phantom Power: 48volt @ XLR Mic channels
Channel EQ 3-band active: LOW: 80Hz ±12dB
MID: 750Hz ±12dB
HI: 11.5KHz ±12dB
Power Output: 500w (2x250w@2Ω)
Power Req.: 120VAC 60 Hz or optional 240VAC 50 Hz model
Size and Weight: 11”H x 17.5”W x 10.5”D, 20 lbs
Remote Effects Controller: Optional FS22 footswitch for on/off effects
Vinyl Cover: CV880
XP650 BLOCK DIAGRAM
CARVIN ENGINEERING DATA OPERATING MANUAL
XP650 POWERED MIXER
RECEIVING INSPECTION—read before getting started
INSPECTYOURMIXERFORANYDAMAGEwhichmayhaveoccurredduringshipping.
If any damage is found, please notify the shipping company and CARVIN immediately.
SAVE THE CARTON & ALL PACKING MATERIALS. In the event you have to re-ship your
unit, always use the original carton and packing material. This will provide the best pos-
sible protection during shipment. CARVIN and the shipping company are not liable for
any damage caused by improper packing.
SAVE YOUR INVOICE. It will be required for warranty service if needed in the future.
SHIPMENT SHORTAGE. If you find items missing, they may have been shipped sep-
arately. Please allow several days for the rest of your order to arrive before inquiring.
RECORD THE SERIAL NUMBER on the enclosed warranty card or below on this man-
ual for your records. Keep your portion of the card and return the portion with your
name and comments to us.
USA customers register online at: www.carvin.com/registration
All other countries register online at: www.carvinworld.com/registration
For your records, you may wish to record the following information.
Serial No._____________________ Invoice Date_______________
MADE IN USA

QUICK START UP
If you’re like most new owners, you’re probably in a hurry
to plug your mixer in and use it. Here are some brief instruc-
tions to get you going quickly. With the mixer unplugged and
the unit turned off, complete the following procedures:
A. CONNECTING AC POWER TO YOUR MIXER
• Be sure to plug your mixer into the proper voltage marked
on your mixer, either 120V-60Hz or 240V-50Hz.
•Use only a grounded (3 prong) power outlet to prevent a
shock hazard (do not bypass). This gives the quietest
grounding for your mixer.
B. CONNECTING INPUTS TO YOUR MIXER
• For balanced microphones, use a shielded cable and plug
into the XLR MIC inputs.
• For high output devices like instruments & keyboards, plug
into the LINE input jacks using a shielded cable. Adjust the
GAIN control for mic or for instruments.
C. TURNING YOUR MIXER ON
• Set all channel and master LEVEL controls to their OFF
positions
• Set all HI, MID, and BASS controls and the graphic equal-
izers to their center “flat - no boost or cut” position.
• Connect your speakers and monitors at the rear panel.
• Turn the mixer on by the rear POWER SWITCH and watch
for the front POWER LED to come on. Your mixer is now
ready to operate by turning the levels up.
MIC CHANNEL FEATURES
1. XLR MICROPHONE INPUT
The XLR MIC input is designed for balanced low impedance
microphones. The high performance, low noise preamps do
a superb job of noise reduction. The XLR connector is wired
as per the industry standard, pin 1 is ground, pin 2 is non-
inverting (positive), and pin 3 is inverting (negative). Note:
Make sure the phantom power is switched off before con-
necting or disconnecting microphones to the mixer.
2. LINE INPUT JACKS
The LINE input is a 1/4” phone jack designed for balanced or
unbalanced line or instruments. Examples of these inputs
would be guitar, keyboard or effect returns. The line input
can be used at the same time the mic input is being used.
3. GAIN CONTROL
The GAIN control adjusts the input sensitivity on both the
LINE and MIC input jacks over a range of 40dB. For quietest
operation, set the GAIN control just below the point where
the PK LED flashes. If the PK LED lights or if distortion is
heard reduce the GAIN slightly until the PK LED is off.
4. CHANNEL “PK” LED
The PK LED indicates when the channel is nearing it’s clip-
ping level, causing distortion. Reduce the GAIN slightly to
prevent distortion. To get more volume, increase the master
MAIN control and re-adjust your main mix.
5. CHANNEL LEVEL CONTROL
The LEVEL control adjusts the volume of the channel before
going to the PAN control. Here is where the individual chan-
nel volumes are adjusted to make up the desired mix at the
main outputs.
6. CHANNEL EFFECTS LEVEL
The EFF control adjusts the level sent to the effects proces-
sor and to the front EFF SND jack. The effects control is
post-channel level, which automatically tracks the channel’s
LEVEL & EQ controls. Reduce the EFF level if the PK LEDs
are flashing on the effects processor.
7. CHANNEL MONITOR CONTROL
The MON control adjusts the volume of the channel going to
the master MONITOR control. The MON control is a pre-
LEVEL control. This means it is unaffected by the channel
LEVEL.
8-10. CHANNEL TONE CONTROLS
Each channel features active 3-band EQ tone controls LO,
MID, and HI. All three function as boost (clockwise) & cut
(counter-clockwise) controls. The center 0is the “flat” or no
effect position. The LO and HI controls are shelving type
with corner frequencies at 80Hz and 11.5k Hz respectively.
The MID control is a band pass type centered at 750Hz.
These settings will vary with the type of voice or instrument.
Try reducing the MID to add clarity and turn up the LO and
HI for a fuller sound.
11. TAPE IN JACKS
The TAPE IN inputs on CHANNEL 6 are for connecting a CD or
tape player. These TAPE IN jacks can be used for returning
another effects processor or instrument (keyboard). Channel 6
inputs are NOT muted by the MUSIC BREAK switch.
MASTER SECTION FEATURES
12. MAIN LEVEL
The MAIN control is the master volume control for all chan-
nels. The MAIN signal is sent through the MAIN GRAPHIC
EQ to the MAIN amp and the front MAIN output jack.
13. MONITOR LEVEL
The MONITOR master level is sent through the MONITOR
GRAPHIC EQ to the MONITOR amp and front output jack.
14. TAPE OUT LEVEL
The TAPE OUT LEVEL sends the MAIN signal mix to the
TAPE OUT jacks for recording. The TAPE OUT level is unaf-
fected by the MAIN level control so a recording level can be set
independently of the MAIN speaker volume.
15. TAPE OUT JACKS
Use the TAPE OUT L-R jacks for recording or to send to
external power amps. If the TAPE OUT is being used to
record, make sure the TAPE IN jacks are not connected to
the recorder output or turn the channel 6 LEVEL to “0” or
feedback will result.
16. EFF SEND JACK
The EFF SEND jack can send a signal to an external processor.
This is the same signal sent to the internal effects processor.
Effect returns can be connected to any input channel. Make
sure the EFF control for the return channel is set to “OFF” or
“EFF1” or feedback will occur.
17. MAIN OUTPUT
The front MAIN output is the same signal that feeds the inter-
nal MAIN amp. Use this balanced 1/4” output to feed addi-
tional power amps, etc..
XP650 CONTROLS
1
4
5
6
3
2
7
8
9
10

18. MONITOR OUTPUT
The front MONITOR output is the same signal that feeds the
internal MONITOR amp. Use this balanced 1/4” output to
feed additional power amps, etc..
19. DSP EFFECTS PROCESSOR
A 24-Bit processor provides a host of great sounding effects
including Flange, Reverb, Echo, & Chorus.
The channel EFF send control delivers the signals to the
processors.Note: Reduce these levels if the red PEAK LEDs
are flashing on the processors.
Turn up the MAIN effects control to add your effects to the
MAIN outputs. Adjust the SELECT and the PARAMETER con-
trols to get the desired effect. Note: An audible noise will be
heard while adjusting the effects.
A) ECHO: SELECT the amount of the regeneration (repeat-
ing). Now select the PARAMETER control for the shortest or
longest delay time between the original signal and the echo.
B) REVERB: SELECT the amount of presence (high frequen-
cies) in the reverb. Now turn the PARAMETER control to pro-
vide the minimum or maximum decay.
C) CHORUS: SELECT the amount of reverb with your chorus.
Now turn the PARAMETER control to increase the depth.
D) FLANGE: SELECT the amount of speed with your flange
(phasing effect). Now turn the PARAMETER control to
increase the depth.
20. EFFECTS PEAK LED’s
The PK LED indicates that the signal level to the processor is
too high. To prevent distortion, turn the EFF control towards
the “0” (off) position until the PK LED stops flashing.
21. MAIN EFFECTS CONTROL
The MAIN EFFECTS level controls the amount of the effects
that go to your MAIN outputs.
22. MONITOR EFFECTS LEVEL
The MONITOR EFFECTS level controls the amount of the
effects that go to your MONITORS.
23. MUSIC BREAK SWITCH / LED
TheMUSIC BREAK featureturnsoffallinputs,exceptfor chan-
nel 6. This is useful during breaks. This allows pre-recorded
music to be played through the TAPE IN jacks. The channel 6
MIC/LINE inputs are left active for announcements or solo
acts. The remaining input channels (1-5) are turned OFF
eliminating feedback or other unwanted sounds from open
mics during breaks or changes. The LED indicates the MUSIC
BREAK is ON. The internal effects are also muted.
24. GRAPHIC EQ MAIN + MONITOR
When the EQ sliders are in their center position, they do not
affect the audio signal. When EQ sliders are raised or low-
ered from this position, they boost or cut a narrow fre-
quency band.
For tone enhancement you may want to raise the 80Hz and
160Hz sliders (for deeper bass) and the 6kHz and 12kHz slid-
ers (for crisper highs) while reducing the 400Hz, 800Hz and
2kHz sliders in a moderate “curve”.
To help prevent feedback, microphones should be placed
behind the main speakers.
Toreduce feedbackinthe lowfrequencyrange, try loweringoneof
the 80Hz or 160Hz sliders. High frequency feedback is usually
reduced by lowering the 2kHz or 6kHz sliders.
25. OUTPUT LED’s /AMP “CLIP” LED’s
The OUTPUT METER LEDs indicate the output levels for
each power amp. The yellow “+6” LED indicates the output
level is near maximum. The red CLIP LEDs indicate when
the power amps are starting to distort (clip). Reduce the
MAIN and/or MONITOR master levels to prevent distortion.
26. POWER LED
The blue POWER LED indicates the mixer is powered ON.
27. PROTECT LED
The mixer will “protect”, engaging relays to mute the speak-
ers if: a) impedance is below minimum on any amplifier b)
shorted speaker cables, or c) ventalation problems. If the
LED comes on, shut the mixer OFF and check for cable
problems, proper impedance and obstructed rear cooling
vents. If you encounter an over-heat problem, leave the
mixer ON allowing the fan to cool down the internal com-
ponents. The mixer will auto-reset in about 5 minutes.
28. 48V PHANTOM POWER SW/LED
The 48V PHANTOM POWER switch turns on the micro-
phone phantom power in the channel XLR jacks. This
power is used for supplying a high voltage to condenser
microphones. The LED indicates the phantom power is
turned on. The phantom power will not damage conven-
tional dynamic microphones. Note: Make sure the phantom
power is switched off before connecting or disconnecting
microphones to avoid a “pop”.
29. AMP ASSIGN SWITCH
This switch allows you to use one amp for MAIN and one
amp for MONITOR, or use both power amps for the MAIN
speakers. The front MONITOR output jack remains
unchanged and can still be used for external power amps or
in-ear monitor systems.
30. EFFECTS FOOT SWITCH JACK
The optional FS22 will remotely shut off the internal effects.
REAR PANEL-POWER/SPEAKER CONNECTIONS
The rear
panel contains the POWER SWITCH and AC power cable con-
nection. There are 2 groups of speaker jacks. Each group has
one Speakon™ connector and two 1/4” outputs (wired in par-
allel).
Each amp has a 2ΩMINIMUM IMPEDANCE
(Maximum two 4Ωspeakers or four 8Ωspeakers per amp).
MAKE ALL SPEAKER CONNECTIONS BEFORE TURNING THE
MIXER ON .
11 15
25
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24
22
16 17
1213
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27
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14

CAUTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS (EUROPEAN)
The conductors in the AC power cord are colored in accordance with the following code.
GREEN & YELLOW—Earth BLUE—Neutral BROWN—Live
U.K. MAIN PLUG WARNING: A molded main plug that has been cut off from the cord is
unsafe. NEVER UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES SHOULD YOU INSERT A DAM-
AGED OR CUT MAIN PLUG INTO A POWER SOCKET.
IMPORTANT! FOR YOUR PROTECTION, PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING:
WATER AND MOISTURE: Appliance should not be used near water (near a bathtub, washbowl,
kitchen sink, laundry tub, in a wet basement, or near a swimming pool, etc). Care should be taken
so that objects do not fall and liquids are not spilled into the enclosure through openings.
POWER SOURCES: The appliance should be connected to a power supply only of the type
described in the operating instructions or as marked on the appliance.
GROUNDING OR POLARIZATION: Precautions should be taken so that the grounding or polar-
ization means of an appliance is not defeated.
POWER CORD PROTECTION: Power supply cords should be routed so that they are not likely to
be walked on or pinched by items placed upon or against them, paying particular attention to
cords at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the appliance.
SERVICING: The user should not attempt to service the appliance beyond that described in the
operating instructions. All other servicing should be referred to qualified service personnel.
FUSING: If your unit is equipped with a fuse receptacle, replace only with the same type fuse.
Refer to replacement text on the unit for correct fuse type.
REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE
PERSONNEL! THIS UNIT CONTAINS HIGH
VOLTAGE INSIDE!
CAUTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
This symbol is intended to
alert the user to the pres-
ence of uninsulated “dan-
gerous voltage” within the
product’s enclosure that may be of suf-
ficient magnitude to constitute a risk of
electric shock to persons.
This symbol is intend-
ed to alert the user to
the presence of impor-
tant operating and
maintenance (servicing) instructions
in the literature accompanying the
appliance.
LIMITED WARRANTY
Your Carvin product is guaranteed against failure for 1 YEAR unless otherwise stated.
Carvin will service and supply all parts at no charge to the customer providing the unit is
underwarranty. Shipping costs are the responsibility of the customer. CARVINDOESNOT
PAY FOR PARTS OR SERVICING OTHER THAN OUR OWN. A COPY OF THE ORIGINAL
INVOICE IS REQUIRED TO VERIFY YOUR WARRANTY. Carvin assumes no responsibility
for horn drivers or speakers damaged by this unit. This warranty does not cover, and no
liability is assumed, for damage due to: natural disasters, accidents, abuse, loss of parts,
lack of reasonable care, incorrect use, or failure to follow instructions. This warranty is in
lieu of all other warranties, expressed or implied. No representative or person is authorized
to represent or assume for Carvin any liability in connection with the sale or servicing of
Carvin products.
CARVIN SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL
DAMAGES.
When RETURNING merchandise to the factory, you may call for a return authorization
number. Describe in writing each problem. If your unit is out of warranty, you will be
charged the current FLAT RATE for parts and labor to bring your unit up to factory spec-
ifications.
MAINTAINING YOUR EQUIPMENT
Avoid spilling liquids or allowing any other foreign matter inside the unit. The panel of
your unit can be wiped from time to time with a dry or slightly damp cloth in order to
remove dust and bring back the new look. As with all pro gear, avoid prolonged use in
caustic environments (salt air). When used in such an environment, be sure the mixer
is adequately protected by a cover.
XP650 LIVE SET UP
A NOTE ABOUT SPEAKER IMPEDANCE (Ω) and CABLES
As you add more speakers to an amp, the total impedance (ohms) is
reduced. The amplifiers will drive an impedance of 2Ωor higher. This means up
to four 8Ωspeakers, or two 4Ωspeakers, for each amp.
Speaker cables should be a minimum 16 gauge for up to 50ft (PH50).
Heavy-duty Speakon™ 12 gauge cables (SP100) are recommended for lengths
over 50ft.