DAPAudio IM-53 User manual

IM-53 Installation Mixer
ORDERCODE D6504

Congratulations!
You have bought a great, innovative product from DAP Audio.
The DAP Audio IM-53 brings excitement to any venue. Whether you want simple plug-&-play action or a
sophisticated show, this product provides the effect you need.
You can rely on DAP Audio, for more excellent audio products.
We design and manufacture professional audio equipment for the entertainment industry.
New products are being launched regularly. We work hard to keep you, our customer, satisfied.
For more information: [e-mail]
You can get some of the best quality, best priced products on the market from DAP Audio.
So next time, turn to DAP Audio for more great audio equipment.
Always get the best -- with DAP Audio !
Thank you!

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DAP Audio
DAP Audio IM-53™ Product Guide
Warning..…...................................................................................…………………………………………....................
Safety-instructions………………………………………………………………………………………….…..................
Operating Determinations……………………………………………………………………………………...............
Description..…..............................................................................……….…………………………………...................
Features………………………………………………………………………………….………………….…..................
Overview ..…………………………………………………………………………………….………....……..................
Backside.………………………………………………………………………….………....……………..…...................
Installation...............................................................................…...……………………………………..………………...
Set Up and Operation.....................................................................……..…………………………….….....................
Set Up ……………….............................................…………………………………...................……........................
Connection Cables..............................….......................................………..………….…….………….…...................
Maintenance………..............................….......................................………..………….…….………….…...................
Troubleshooting………..............................…................................………..………….…….………….…......................
Product Specifications.................................................................……………….…….………………….....................

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WARNING
Unpacking Instructions
Immediately upon receiving this product, carefully unpack the carton and check the contents to ensure
that all parts are present, and have been received in good condition. Notify the dealer immediately and
retain packing material for inspection if any parts appear damaged from shipping or the carton itself
shows signs of mishandling. Save the carton and all packing materials. In the event that a fixture must be
returned to the factory, it is important that the fixture be returned in the original factory box and packing.
Your shipment includes:
• DAP IM-53 Installation mixer
• User manual
Return Procedure
Returned merchandise must be sent prepaid and in the original packing, call tags will not be issued.
Package must be clearly labeled with a Return Authorization Number (RMA number). Products returned
without an RMA number will be refused. Highlite will not accept the returned goods or any responsibility.
Call Highlite 0031-455667723 or mail [e-mail] and request an RMA prior to shipping the fixture.
Be prepared to provide the model number, serial number and a brief description of the cause for the
return. Be sure to properly pack fixture, any shipping damage resulting from inadequate packaging is the
customer’s responsibility. Highlite reserves the right to use its own discretion to repair or replace
product(s). As a suggestion, proper UPS packing or double-boxing is always a safe method to use.
Note: If you are given an RMA number, please include the following information on a piece of paper
inside the box:
1) Your name
2) Your address
3) Your phone number
4) A brief description of the symptoms
Claims
The client has the obligation to check the delivered goods immediately upon delivery for any short-
comings and/or visible defects, or perform this check after our announcement that the goods are at their
disposal. Damage incurred in shipping is the responsibility of the shipper; therefore the damage must be
reported to the carrier upon receipt of merchandise.
It is the customer's responsibility to notify and submit claims with the shipper in the event that a fixture is
damaged due to shipping. Transportation damage has to be reported to us within one day after receipt
of the delivery.
Any return shipment has to be made post-paid at all times. Return shipments must be accompanied with
a letter defining the reason for return shipment. Non-prepaid return shipments will be refused, unless
otherwise agreed in writing.
Complaints against us must be made known in writing or by fax within 10 working days after receipt of the
invoice. After this period complaints will not be handled anymore.
Complaints will only then be considered if the client has so far complied with all parts of the agreement,
regardless of the agreement of which the obligation is resulting.
FOR YOUR OWN SAFETY, PLEASE READ THIS USER MANUAL CAREFULLY
BEFORE YOUR INITIAL START-UP!

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WARNING
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Every person involved with the installation, operation and maintenance of this system has to:
-be qualified
-follow the instructions of this manual
Before you initial start-up, please make sure that there is no damage caused by transportation. Should
there be any, consult your dealer and do not use the system.
To maintain perfect condition and to ensure a safe operation, it is absolutely necessary for the user to
follow the safety instructions and warning notes written in this manual.
Please consider that damages caused by manual modifications to the system are not subject to
warranty.
This system contains no user-serviceable parts. Refer servicing to qualified technicians only.
IMPORTANT:
The manufacturer will not accept liability for any resulting damages caused by the non-
observance of this manual or any unauthorized modification to the system.
Never let the power-cord come into contact with other cables! Handle the power-cord and all
connections with the mains with particular caution!
Never remove warning or informative labels from the unit.
Never use anything to cover the ground contact.
Never leave any cables lying around.
Do not insert objects into air vents.
Do not connect this system to a dimmerpack.
Do not switch the system on and off in short intervals, as this would reduce the system’s life.
Do not open the device and do not modify the device.
Do not drive the inputs with a signal level bigger, than required to drive the equipment to full
output.
Do not plug Mics into the console (or stagebox) while Phantom Power is on. Also mute the monitor
/ Pa system when turning Phantom Power on or off. Allow the system to adjust for a couple of
seconds, before setting the input gains.
Only use system indoor, avoid contact with water or other liquids.
Avoid flames and do not put close to flammable liquids or gases.
Always disconnect power from the mains, when system is not used. Only handle the power-cord
by the plug. Never pull out the plug by tugging the power-cord.
Always operate the unit with the AC ground wire connected to the electrical system ground.
Make sure you don’t use the wrong kind of cables or defective cables.
Make sure that the signals into the mixer are balanced, otherwise hum could be created.
Make sure you use DI boxes to balance unbalanced signals; All incoming signals should be clear.
CAUTION!
Keep this system away from rain and moisture!
CAUTION! Be careful with your operations.
With a dangerous voltage you can suffer
a dangerous electric shock when touching the wires!

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Make sure that the available voltage is not higher than stated on the rear panel.
Make sure that the power-cord is never crimped or damaged. Check the system and the power-
cord from time to time.
Please turn off the power switch, when changing the power cord or signal cable, or select the
input mode switch.
Extreme frequency boosts in connection with a high input signal level may lead to overdriving
your equipment. Should this occur, it is necessary to reduce the input signal level by using the
INPUT control.
To emphasize a frequency range, you don’t necessarily have to move its respective control
upward; try lowering surrounding frequency ranges instead. This way, you avoid causing the next
piece of equipment in your sound path to overdrive. You also preserve valuable dynamic reserve
(“headroom”)
Avoid ground loops! Always be sure to connect the power amps and the mixing console to the
same electrical circuit to ensure the same phase!
If system is dropped or struck, disconnect mains power supply immediately. Have a qualified
engineer inspect for safety before operating.
If the system has been exposed to drastic temperature fluctuation (e.g. after transportation), do
not switch it on immediately. The arising condensation water might damage your system. Leave
the system switched off until it has reached room temperature.
If your Dap Audio device fails to work properly, discontinue use immediately. Pack the unit
securely (preferably in the original packing material), and return it to your Dap Audio dealer for
service.
Repairs, servicing and electric connection must be carried out by a qualified technician.
For replacement use fuses of same type and rating only.
WARRANTY: Till one year after date of purchase.
OPERATING DETERMINATIONS
This system is not designed for permanent operation. Consistent operation breaks will ensure that the
system will serve you for a long time without defects.
If this system is operated in any other way, than the one described in this manual, the product may suffer
damages and the warranty becomes void.
Any other operation may lead to dangers like short-circuit, burns, electric shock, etc.
You endanger your own safety and the safety of others!
Improper installation can cause serious damage to people and property !
Connection with the mains
Connect the device to the mains with the power-plug.
Always pay attention, that the right color cable is connected to the right place.
International
EU (including UK)
From April 2004
North America
Pin
L
Brown
Black
Phase
N
Blue
White
Neutral
Green/Yellow
Green
Protective Earth
Make sure that the device is always connected properly to earth!

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Description of the device
Features
The IM-53 is a Multi Zone mixer from Dap Audio.
• 9 inputs
• 3 separate selectable outputs (zones) for each channel
• Master outputs with low, mid and high frequency control
• LED indicators for each output zone
• PFL (PreFadeListening) on every channel AND on every zone
• Exclusive design
Overview
Fig. 1
1) Gain (Mic channel), range L / H 14)Channel Overload LED (channel 1/ 2/ 3/ 4)
2) EQ High, range -12 / +12 dB 15)Zone High (zone 1/ 2/ 3), range -12 / +12 dB
3) Low, range -12 / +12 dB 16)Zone Mid (zone 1/ 2/ 3), range -12 / +12 dB
4) Pan, range L / R 17)Zone Low (zone 1/ 2/ 3), range -12 / +12 dB
5) Level (Mic channel), range 0/ 10 18)Zone VU-meters (zone 1/ 2/ 3)
6) Mic input (balanced) 19)Zone PFL LED (zone 1/ 2/ 3)
7) Zone Assign buttons (Zone 1/ 2/ 3) 20)Zone PFL button (zone 1/ 2/ 3)
8) Phono/ Line Selection switch (channel 1/ 2) 21)Zone Master (zone 1/ 2/ 3), range 0 / 10
9) Fader (channel 1/ 2/ 3/ 4), range 0/ 10 22)Zone Balance (zone 1/ 2/ 3), range L / R
10)Gain channel 1-4, range L / H 23)Power LED
11)Channel PFL LED (channel 1/ 2/ 3/ 4) 24)Power On / Off
12)Line/ Line Selection Switch (channel 3/ 4) 25)Headphone Level, range 0 /10
13)Channel PFL button (channel 1/ 2/ 3/ 4) 26)Headphone

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Backside
Fig. 2
27)Powercord
28)Fuse T250mA
29) Balanced XLR Output for Zone 1, 2 or 3 (L / R)
30)Unbalanced RCA Stereo Output for Zone 1, 2 or 3 (L / R)
31)CH4; Line 1 (L/R) and Line 2 (L/R) RCA input
32)CH3; Line 1 (L/R) and Line 2 (L/R) RCA input
33)CH2; Phono (L/R) and Line (L/R)RCA input
34)CH1; Phono (L/R) and Line (L/R)RCA input
35)Ground

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Installation
Remove all packing materials from the IM-53. Check that all foam and plastic padding is removed.
Connect all cables.
Always disconnect from electric mains power supply before cleaning or servicing.
Damages caused by non-observance are not subject to warranty.
1. Gain
Mic Channel input level is determined by the Gain control.
With the Gain control you can adjust the MIC input-sensitivity, while
optimally matching the incoming signals to the mixer’s internal operation
level. When dealing with very low input levels (example vocal recordings or
distant sound sources) the high gain is extremely profitable.
How to set the Input level:
1) Set the gain control to its minimum setting. Set the level pot and the
master fader to ¾ of their stroke.
2) Connect a microphone MIC input (6).
3) Sing or speak as loud as possible directly into the microphone.
4) While doing so, adjust the input level using the gain control, so that
during the loudest passages the VU-meter of the master channels
displays values around 0 dB.
This basic channel setting leaves you at least 8dB headroom. This means, you have at least 8dB before
signal clipping. If you want to make further adjustments to the channel’s EQ setting, you should repeat
step 3and 4again.
2 / 3. EQ HIGH / LOW
The mixer’s Equalizer section allows shaping of the incoming audio signal. The Mic channel is fitted with a
2-band EQ. The upper (2) and lower (3) shelving controls have their frequencies fixed at 10 Khz and 50 Hz
respectively.
5. PAN
By using the PAN control you can change the input signal’s position within the stereo image. When the
PAN control is set to center position, the audio signal is equal for both the left and right bus.
6. MIC
Electronically balanced XLR-type input for connecting low-impedance microphones. The input has
extremely low noise and hum. When connecting a microphone make sure that the pin assignment is
correct. Always make sure to read the manual of the microphone you want to connect. The XLR-input is
not suitable for connecting an additional mixing console, FX-unit, etc. You have to use the LINE-inputs,
when connecting this kind of equipment.
Note: When connecting signal sources, please make sure that the corresponding channel faders and the
master faders are at their minimum settings. Otherwise unpleasant plug-in noise can occur.
7. Zone Assign (Zone 1, 2 and 3)
You can assign the output of a channel to each of the 3 zones.

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7. Zone Assign (Zone 1, 2 or 3)
You can assign the output of a channel to each of the 3
zones.
8. Selection Switch (Phono/ Line)
With this switch you can select between either the phono
input or the line input on the backpanel.
9. Channel Fader
Use the faders to control the levels of channel 1-4.
10. GAIN
Use this control to match the connected devices optimally
to your IM-53. The fader set to ¾ stroke. Adjust the gain with
a loud input signal in such a way that the overload led does
not light.
12. Selection Switch (Line/Line)
With this switch you can select between either of the two
line inputs on the backpanel.
13. PFL button
With this button pressed. The signal of it’s corresponding channel can be monitored on the headphone
output. The PFL signal is taken before the fader.
14. Overload LED
15/ 16/ 17. EQ HIGH / MID / LOW
The mixer’s Equalizer section allows shaping of the outgoing
audio signal. All mono input channels are fitted with 3-band
EQ. The upper (15) and lower (17) shelving controls have
their frequencies fixed 12 Khz and 80 Hz respectively. The Mid
range control (16) has a center frequency of 2.5 Khz. All 3
bands have up to 12 dB cut and boost, with a centre detent
for “OFF”. Turning the Equalizer level control to the right
amplifies the frequency range, turning to the left attenuates
the signal. Minor changes to the Equalizer control usually
produce the best results. Try to avoid excessive
enhancement of the MID band.
18. VU-meter (Zone 1, 2 or 3)
19. PFL LED (Zone 1, 2 or 3)
Indicates that the PFL function is active.
20. PFL button (Zone 1, 2 or 3)
With this button pressed. The signal of it’s corresponding zone can be monitored on the headphone
output. The PFL signal is taken before the master control.
21. MASTER
By using the Master control you can change the overall output signal of an individual zone.
22. Balance
By using the Balance control you can change the signal’s loudness within the stereo image. When the
PAN control is set to center position, the audio signal is equal for both the left and right output.
23. Power ON LED
24. Power switch

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25. Headphones level
This control allows you to adjust the headphones’ volume.
Caution: Depending on the type of headphones connected to the phone jack, the IM-53 is capable of
producing very high output. Therefore, make sure to turn the control all the way to the left (minimum
setting) before connecting the headphones.
Be aware of the fact that listening to loud sound pressure levels over a longer period of time leads to
hearing-damage!
26. Headphones
You can connect a pair of headphones with an impedance of 32 - 600 Ohm to the headphone
connector. It is a 6,3mm/ 1/4” jack socket, wired as Tip=left, Ring=right and sleeve = ground.

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Set Up and Operation
Before plugging the unit in, always make sure that the power supply matches the product specification
voltage. Do not attempt to operate a 120V specification product on 230V power, or vice versa.
Connection Cables
Take care of your cables, always holding them by the connectors and avoiding knots and twists when
coiling them: This gives the advantage of increasing their life and reliability.
Periodically check your cables. A great number of problems (faulty contacts, ground hum, discharges,
etc.) are caused entirely by using unsuitable or faulty cables.
Headphones Unbalanced mono Balanced mono Insert
Compensation of interference with balanced connections

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Maintenance
The DAP Audio IM-53 requires almost no maintenance. However, you should keep the unit clean.
Disconnect the mains power supply, and then wipe the cover with a damp cloth. Do not immerse in
liquid. Do not use alcohol or solvents.
Keep connections clean. Disconnect electric power, and then wipe the DMX and audio connections
with a damp cloth. Make sure connections are thoroughly dry before linking equipment or supplying
electric power.
Troubleshooting
DAP Audio IM-53
This troubleshooting guide is meant to help solve simple problems. If a problem occurs, carry out the steps
below in sequence until a solution is found. Once the unit operates properly, do not carry out following
steps.
1. If the device does not operate properly, unplug the device.
2. Check power from the wall, all cables, the fuse, etc.
3. If all of the above appears to be O.K., plug the unit in again.
4. If nothing happens after 30 seconds, unplug the device.
5. Return the device to your DAP Audio dealer.

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Product Specification
Model: DAP Audio IM-53 Installation Mixer
Power Supply: AC 230V-50Hz
Power consumption: 15W
Inputs: 6 line, 2 phono, 1 mic
Line, Phono: cinch unbalanced
Mic: combo jack/XLR balanced
Outputs: 3 Separate Zones
Master: XLR balanced and cinch unbalanced
Headphone: jack 6,3 mm Stereo
Tone control master output: Low 50Hz
Mid 1kHz
High 10kHz
Tone control Mic channel: Low 50Hz
High 10kHz
Indicators: 11 segment LED indicators for Master and PFL
Dimensions: 19" x 132 x 177 mm (LxWxH)
Weight: 3,85 kg
Design and product specifications are subject to change without prior notice.
Website: www.Dap-audio.info
Email: [e-mail]

2009 Dap Audio.