Dynacord DSP 260 User manual

OWNER’S MANUAL

DSP 260
2 Owner‘s Manual
Overview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
DSP 260 Features. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Controls & Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Front Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Rear Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Editing & Operation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Factory Presets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
User Presets – Standard Editing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
User Preset – Full Editing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Unpacking & Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Run-time Mode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
LCD Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Input Level Meters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Output Level Meters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Output Gain Reduction Meters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Output Channel Mute Buttons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Output Channel Function Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Preset Recall. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Preset Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Edit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Setup. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Setup Menus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Configurations of the DSP 260. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
2-Way Stereo + Full Range. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
3-Way Stereo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
4-Way + FR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
5-Way + FR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Free Configuration - Full Edit 2 In 6 Out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
3-Way Stereo-MonoSub+FR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
4-Way Stereo-MonoSub/LF. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Operation Modes & Presets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
EQ Plot Images . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
6 dB PEQ Cuts Q Changes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
6 dB-Oct Shelves at 200 Hz and 2 kHz. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
12 dB PEQ Cuts Q Changes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
12dB-Oct Shelves at 200 Hz and 2 kHz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Bessel Filters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Butterworth Filters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Hi Lo Pass Filters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Linkwitz-Riley Filters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
PEQ Gains . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

DSP 260
Owner‘s Manual 3
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
1. Read these instructions.
2. Keep these instructions.
3. Heed all warnings.
4. Follow all instructions.
5. Do not use this apparatus near water.
6. Clean only with a dry cloth.
7. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacture’s instructions.
8. Do not install near heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or the 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 the third prong are provided for your safety. If the provided plug
does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
10. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the
apparatus.
11. Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
12. Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by the manufacturer, or sold with the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution when
moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury from tip-over.
13. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for a long period of time.
14. 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.
15. Do not expose this equipment to dripping or splashing and ensure that no objects filled with liquids, such as vases, are placed on the equipment.
16. To completely disconnect this equipment from the AC Mains, disconnect the power supply cord plug from the AC receptacle.
17. The mains plug of the power supply cord shall remain readily operable.
18. No naked flame sources, such as lighted candles, should be placed on the apparatus.
19. This is an CLASS I apparatus and shall be connected to a main socket outlet with a protective earth connection.
IMPORTANT SERVICE INSTRUCTIONS
CAUTION: These servicing instructions are for use by qualified personnel only. To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not perform any servicing
other than that contained in the Operating Instructions unless you are qualified to do so. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
1. Security regulations as stated in the EN 60065 (VDE 0860 / IEC 65) and the CSA E65 - 94 have to be obeyed when servicing the appliance.
2. Use of a mains separator transformer is mandatory during maintenance while the appliance is opened, needs to be operated and is connected to the
mains.
3. Switch off the power before retrofitting any extensions, changing the mains voltage or the output voltage.
4. The minimum distance between parts carrying mains voltage and any accessible metal piece (metal enclosure), respectively between the mains poles
has to be 3 mm and needs to be minded at all times. The minimum distance between parts carrying mains voltage and any switches or breakers that
are not connected to the mains (secondary parts) has to be 6 mm and needs to be minded at all times.
5. Replacing special components that are marked in the circuit diagram using the security symbol (Note) is only permissible when using original parts.
6. Altering the circuitry without prior consent or advice is not legitimate.
7. Any work security regulations that are applicable at the locations where the appliance is being serviced have to be strictly obeyed. This applies also to
any regulations about the work place itself.
8. All instructions concerning the handling of MOS-circuits have to be observed.
The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol, within
an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user
to the presence of uninsulated “dangerous vol-
tage“ within the product’s enclosure that may be
of sufficent magnitude to constitute a risk of elec-
tric shock to persons.
The exclamation point within an equilateral tri-
angle is intended to alert the user to the presence
of important operating and maintenance (servi-
cing) instructions in the literature accompanying
the product.
WEEE Recycling/Disposal Instructions
The Wheelie Bin symbol found on the product or in the manual indicates that this product must not be dis-
posed of with other waste. It is in our category the manufacturer’s responsibility to properly dispose of their
waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) at the end of its life. Due to the differences in each EU
country’s management of WEEE, please contact your local distributor. We are committed to facilitate our own
electronic-waste-management-system, for the free of charge return of all EVI Audio GmbH products: Telex,
Dynacord, ElectroVoice, Midas Consoles, KlarkTeknik and RTS. Arrangements are made with the dealer
where you purchased the equipment from, for the returning of all unusable equipment at no cost, to the fac-
tory in Straubing, for environmental protective disposal.
NOTE: SAFETY COMPONENT (MUST BE REPLACED BY ORIGINAL PART)

DSP 260
4 Owner‘s Manual
1 Overview

DSP 260
Owner‘s Manual 5

DSP 260
6 Owner‘s Manual
2 Introduction
Thank you for purchasing the Dynacord DSP 260 Digital Signal Processor. The Dynacord DSP 260 Digital
System Processor is a universal two-input, six-output digital signal processor with the flexibility of
configuration to handle a multitude of audio system needs and applications; installed sound, house of
worship, convention & meeting facilities, concert touring, club, portable sound reinforcement and more.
2.1 DSP 260 Features
The internal routing matrix can be configured as 2-way stereo + full-range, 3-way stereo, 4-way mono +
full-range, 5-way mono + full range, 3-way stereo with a mono sub + full-range, 4-way stereo with mono
sub and low frequency and finally as a freely assignable 2 x 6 matrix router.
The DSP 260 replaces entire racks of signal processors previously needed to properly configure and
control sound reinforcement systems with a single Analog Devices® SHARC™ DSP processor. The
substantial advantages of the DSP 260 over discrete signal processing racks include:
• 24-bit, 48 kHz digital signal path
• No patch cables to fail or add noise
• Optimal gain structure throughout all stages of signal processing; no gain matching from processor to
processor.
• Recallable factory and user presets; instant system reconfiguration for differing applications and per-
formances.
• Easy, intuitive operation and editing with a PC and the DSP 260 Graphic User Interface Application.
Each DSP 260 Digital System Processor includes the following signal processing blocks:
• Input VU Metering
• Analog or AES/EBU inputs
• 24-bit, 48 kHz A/D converters
• Stereo Hi-pass filters
• Stereo 9-band parametric equalizer
• Stereo 31-band graphic equalizer
• Stereo delay
IMPORTANT NOTE:
To achieve optimum performance and guard against damage to the proces-
sor, your sound system or yourself, please read, understand and follow all of
the directions contained in this Owner’s Manual. Failure to do so may result
in improper performance, loss or injury.
DelayGEQ
PEQ
Level
Delay
PEQ
HPF
>
X-OverRecallStore
<
Edit
>
Setup
Mute Mute Mute Mute Mute Mute
>
Dynacord DSP-260
Program:U01
(FullEdit (2in. 6out))

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Owner‘s Manual 7
Matrix Router / Mixer
• Two inputs (stereo)
• Summed left / right (mono) input
• Six assignable outputs
Outputs (each)
• Cross-over (hi-pass / low-pass filters), with selectable filter types
• 5-band parametric equalizer
•Delay
•Polarity
• Peak RMS detecting limiter
• Level & Mute
• 24-bit, 48 kHz D/A converters
Additional features include:
• Electronically balanced XLR inputs and outputs
• -6 dB switchable input level pad
• Contact closure interface for recall of up to eight selectable presets
• Front-panel USB port for connection to PC; preset editing and real time parameter control and monito-
ring.
• Firmware updates
• FLASH memory for preset storage and in-field firmware upgrades
• Input level meters
• 192 x 32 back-lit graphic LCD display
• LCD navigation / editing controls
• DSP block navigation short-cut controls
• Output level meters
• Output gain reduction meters
• Output assignment display LEDs; sub, low, mid & high
• Output channel Mute controls
• Auto-ranging internal power supply; 100-240 V AC, 50-60 Hz
• Standard IEC A.C. inlet with external, replaceable fuse

DSP 260
8 Owner‘s Manual
3 Controls & Connection
3.1 Front Panel
1 – USB Connector
USB 1.1 port for connection to a PC running Windows XP or Vista. With a connected PC you may run the
DSP 260 Editor Graphic User Interface Application. The DSP 260 can be operated, edited and configured
for installation with an easy to use, intuitive interface. Any available firmware updates downloadable from
www.dynacord.com can be loaded via the USB port as well; allowing for easy in-field updates.
2 – Input Level Meters
The DSP 260 does not itself have input level controls. Proper input level adjustment is accomplished by
setting the output level from the (L / R) bus outputs from the connected mixer (or other audio output
device), as the vast majority of today’s mixer-outputs are dBu calibrated. When the mixer is operating at
optimal levels, so is the DSP 260. The input meters monitor the input level of either analog or AES-EBU
inputs, depending on the input mode selection set in the Setup Menu.
Optimal signal-to-noise performance is obtained when the nominal (average), input level consistently lights
the +3dBu (green) and / or +6dBu (Yellow) LED indicators. As the DSP 260 is a digital audio device – and
digital clipping produces very unpleasant results, the Clip (red) LED should not light. If the DSP 260’s input
does clip, reduce the output level of the connected mixer. The -6dB PAD button at the rear panel can be
used for adjusting the input level also.
3 – LCD Display
The back-lit, 192 x 32 graphic LCD display allows for operation and editing of the DSP 260 without the
need for an attached PC. The contrast can be set in the Setup Menu for varying lighting conditions and
viewing angles.
The LCD display works in conjunction with Menu buttons, Select buttons and Value buttons - to operate,
navigate and edit the DSP 260’s parameters.
In Run mode, the LCD displays the number and name of the currently selected factory or user preset.
Pressing the Recall or Store buttons switches to their respective menus. Pressing the Edit or Setup menu
buttons switches the display to the last edited parameter.

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Owner‘s Manual 9
In Edit and Setup mode, the top line of the LCD display shows the currently selected parameter edit
screen. Use the Select buttons to activate the top line of the display, and the value buttons to scroll through
available parameter edit screens.
4/5 – Value Up/Down Buttons
Depending on the current LCD screen, the Value Up/Down Buttons performs the following function:
• Recall – Select forwards/backwards through the stored preset list to select a preset to be recalled to
current memory.
• Store – Select User Preset destinations forwards/backwards to select a destination for the currently
edited preset, scroll forwards through ANSI character set to name preset.
• Edit / Setup – Scroll forwards/backwards through Edit / Setup screens when the top line of the LCD
screen is active. Scroll forwards through values for the selected parameter in an Edit / Setup screen.
6 – Edit / Compare Button
Pressing the Edit button while in Run mode places the current preset in Edit mode and the Edit button
lights. The LCD display shows the last edit screen that was selected. From this point, any edit screen can
be displayed and altered.
Pressing the Edit button again “compares” the edited preset, if parameters have been altered, to the
original un-edited preset. This compare function will audibly switch between the altered parameters and
the previously stored settings, allowing you to hear the effect of any DSP changes that have been made.
Use this feature to monitor progress in editing or creating presets.
Subsequently recalling a new preset will prompt you to save changes, which you may do or not.
7 – Setup Button
Pressing the Setup button while in Run mode displays the Setup menus in the LCD display and the Setup
button lights. In this mode, any Setup menu can be displayed and altered. Changes made to Setup menu
items are saved automatically.
To exit Setup mode, press the Setup button again. The LCD display will revert to Run mode.
8 – Select < Button
The Select < button is pressed to navigate backwards through Edit, Setup and / or Recall menu displayed.
The button cycles through all available value fields in a screen and wraps around from first to last.
9 – Select > Button
The Select > button is pressed to navigate forwards through Edit, Setup and / or Recall menu displayed.
The button cycles through all available value fields in a screen and wraps around from last to first.

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10 Owner‘s Manual
10 – Store Button
Pressing the Store button while in Run mode displays the Store Preset screen in the LCD display and the
Store button lights. In this screen edited presets can be named and saved to a user preset location.
Pressing the Store button again completes the preset save operation.
To exit without storing the current preset, press the Edit or Setup buttons to return to the Run mode
screen.
11 – Recall Button
Pressing the Recall button while in Run mode displays the Recall Preset screen in the LCD display and the
Recall button lights. In this screen, any of the 60 factory and 20 user presets can be recalled into current
memory. Pressing the Recall button again completes the preset load operation and returns the LCD
display to Run mode.
To exit without storing the current preset, press the Edit or Setup buttons to return to the Run mode
screen.
12 – Input HPF Button
Pressing the HPF button places the current preset in Edit mode and jumps to the Hi-Pass Filter screen of
Input A. Subsequent button presses toggle the display between Input A and Input B.
13 – Input PEQ Button
Pressing the PEQ button places the current preset in Edit mode and jumps to the first screen of the Input
Parametric Equalizer. Subsequent button presses toggle the display between Input A and Input B.
14 – Input GEQ Button
Pressing the GEQ button places the current preset in Edit mode and jumps to the the Input Graphic
Equalizer screen. Subsequent button presses toggle the display between Input A and Input B.
15 – Input Delay Button
Pressing the Delay button places the current preset in Edit mode and jumps to the Input Delay screen.
Subsequent button presses toggle the display between Input A and Input B.

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Owner‘s Manual 11
16 – Output X-Over Button
Pressing the X-Over button places the current preset in Edit mode and jumps to the first Output Channel
Cross-Over screen. Subsequent button presses step through the available output channels (depending on
configuration).
17 – Output PEQ Button
Pressing the PEQ button places the current preset in Edit mode and jumps to the first Output Parametric
Equalizer screen. Subsequent button presses step through the available output channels (depending on
configuration).
18 – Output Delay Button
Pressing the Delay button places the current preset in Edit mode and jumps to the Output Channel Delay
screen. Subsequent button presses step through the available output channels (depending on
configuration).
19 – Output Level Button
Pressing the Level button places the current preset in Edit mode and jumps to the Output Channel Level
screen. Subsequent button presses step through the available output channels (depending on
configuration).
20 – Output Level Meters
Each output channel has an eight-segment output level VU meter. Meter response characteristics can be
selected in the Setup menu: Normal Fast, Peak-Hold Slow Decay. The yellow segment indicates that
limiting is being applied to the output channel. The red segments indicates clipping of the D/A converters
and should be avoided by adjusting the Output Level of the output channel. It is important to understand
how the meters work and what they are displaying. The Output Meters are displayed as “dB to Limiter
Threshold”. In other words, these meters will display the headroom between the output level and the limiter
threshold. When viewed in conjunction with the Gain Reduction meters, this provides a complete display of
level and headroom before and after limiting has been engaged to allow system levels to be optimized.
This also means that the output metering will be displayed differently depending on the limiter threshold
setting.
21 – Output Gain Reduction Meters
Each output channel has a four-segment gain reduction meter that shows the effect of the output channel
Limiter on output level; from 0dB to -12dB.

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12 Owner‘s Manual
22 – Output Channel Mute Buttons
Each output channel has a lighted Mute button. Pressing the Mute button turns off the output of that
channel. The button lights red as an alert. Press the Mute button again to restore the output channel’s
signal.
Output channels may also be muted from the DSP 260 Graphic User Interface Application, if the unit is
connected to a PC. Muting a channel in any window of the application will light the channel Mute button on
the front panel of the unit as well.
23 – Output Channel Function Indicators
Each output channel has a four-segment function display for informational purposes only. For any given
configuration possible with the DSP 260, an output channel may be identified as a sub, low, low/mid, mid,
mid/hi, hi or full range output. One or two adjacent LED are displayed to indicate all possible output
bandpasses. (Full range is indicated by all lit LED’s.)
3.2 Rear Panel
24- A.C. Inlet
The DSP 260 features a standard IEC A.C. inlet that will accept universal power cords. The DSP 260
power supply is auto-ranging and can accept voltages from 100 - 240 V AC, 50 – 60 Hz. Only A.C. cords
approved for use in your country should be connected to the DSP 260.
25 – A.C. Fuse
The A.C. inlet includes a fuse holder that contains the mains fuse as well as a spare fuse. If necessary,
replace the fuse only with a specified 5x20mm, T800 mA, L250 V replacement. Disconnect A.C. power
before replacing a fuse. Before turning the unit back on, assess the condition of the A.C. receptacle
powering the DSP 260. If fuses continue to blow, refer servicing of the DSP 260 only to qualified service
personnel.

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Owner‘s Manual 13
26 – A.C. Power Switch
The A.C. power switch turns power to the DSP 260 On and Off.
27 – Link/Relay Interface
The operating mode of this dual purpose interface is selected in the Setup menu. Operating modes are:
•RS-232 Interface - Used to link two DSP 260s together in a Master/Slave setup. Connection is made
via a standard 9-pin null-modem serial interface cable with female connectors.
•Contact Closure Port - Eight contact closure pins plus ground for interfacing to 5 V contact closure
systems. Each pin can be assigned a preset that is recalled when voltage on that pin is detected. The
lowest pin number takes priority in multiple controller systems.
28 – Balanced XLR Outputs
Each output channel has an electronically balanced XLR connector for connection to system amplifiers.
Each output channel can output different frequency ranges depending on its assignment and cross-over
settings.
29 – AES/EBU Digital Input
In addition to the analog audio inputs, an AES/EBU digital stereo input is provided and selectable in the
Setup menu. The input conforms to IEC standard 60958 Type I. Connections must be made with three-
conductor, 110-Ohm, twisted pair cabling and an XLR connector.
30 – Balanced XLR Thru
Each analog audio input is connected to an electronically buffered and balanced output as a through
connector. The signal does not undergo any digital conversion or processing. These connectors are used
to pass input audio to a second DSP 260 used as a slave or to other audio inputs in the system.
31 – Balanced XLR Inputs
Each input has an electronically balanced, locking XLR connector. In stereo or dual modes, connections to
both inputs must be made. In mono modes, only one connection need be made, typically to Input A.
Care must be taken to assure that each output is connected to an appropriate
amplifier and loudspeaker to avoid damage or unexpected results. Note that
a new preset may change the assignment of channel and its frequency range.
For instance an output assigned to Hi frequency speakers in one preset, may
be assigned as a sub output in another. See “Configurations of the DSP 260”.

DSP 260
14 Owner‘s Manual
32 – 6dB Pad
Input levels to the DSP 260 can be reduced 6dB prior to the A/D converter to compensate for higher-level
output from mixers and other audio devices. For ideal signal to noise performance when connecting the
DSP 260 to high output level devices engage the 6dB pad rather than turning down the output of the
connected device. The DSP 260‘s Input level Meters (2) will indicate incoming signal level and whether
attenuation is required.
3.3 Installation
For proper operation, all directions regarding installation and connection must be followed.
Mounting
The DSP 260 should be mounted in a rack-mount enclosure or rack rails. The unit is 1RU tall by 14”
(353mm) deep. Proper clearance for air circulation around the unit must be provided. Do not block any
vent holes on the unit. All four mounting points provided by the rack ears must be secured.
Power Connection
The DSP 260 must be connected to A.C. power only by means of the provided IEC A.C. cable or by a
power cable provided by the dealer / installer to match the configuration of your country or region. The
DSP 260 must only be connected to a properly wired, three pin, grounded A.C. outlet. A.C. power must
range from 100 – 240VAC, 50 – 60Hz. The DSP 260 internal power supply is an auto-ranging design; no
adjustments are necessary to configure it for proper A.C. power.
Audio Cables
Always use correctly shielded audio cables when connecting to the DSP 260.
Balanced Input / Output Connections
To minimize induced noise caused by audio cables and to maximize the length of cables used, balanced
connections are strongly advised for both Inputs and Outputs. The XLR jacks provided on the DSP 260 are
configured as pin 1 ground, pin 2 hot (+), pin 3 cold (-). Cable shielding must be connected to pin 1. XLR –
XLR cables or ¼” tip-ring-sleeve – XLR cables can both be used for balanced connections to the DSP 260.

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Owner‘s Manual 15
Un-balanced Input / Output Connections
Un-balanced connections can be made to the DSP 260, although induced noise from cabling may be
increased. Cables should also be less than 15” (5m) in length. Unbalanced connections can be 6dB lower
in level as well. To match the audio level obtained with a balanced connection, it is necessary to tie pin 3 to
ground at the XLR connector. This may increase noise.
RS-232
Two DSP 260s can be used in combination as a Master / Slave for managing larger
sound reinforcement systems. A 9-pin D-Sub connector is provided on the rear of
each unit for data line connections. A standard female-to-female RS-232 cable that
conforms to the null modem wiring convention is used to connect the two units. Cable
length should be kept to less than 45 feet (15 m) for the most reliable operation.
These cables are readily available at local computer dealers.
Operation of the DSP 260 9-pin port for RS-232 connections is selected in the Setup
menu.
Relay Contact Closure
The same 9-pin port used for RS-232 connection to another DSP 260
can alternately be used to recall presets from relay contact closures.
Pins 1 – 4 and pins 5 – 9 are the input lines and pin 5 provides the
ground reference. When the DSP 260 detects a connection between
pin-5 ground and input pins, as completed by an external relay, a
preset assigned by the user to input pins is recalled into memory and
the DSP 260 returns to run-time mode.

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16 Owner‘s Manual
USB
Connecting the DSP 260 to a PC for operation via the DSP 260 Graphic User Interface application is
accomplished via the front panel USB port. The port conforms to the USB 1.1 Type B specification. Type B
USB cables are readily available at computer dealers.
Connection to Amplifiers
It is very important to confirm correct connection to all amplifiers. DSP 260 has the ability to
configure each output for a specific frequency range; sub, low freq. mid freq, high freq. You
must make sure that each output is connected to the correct amplifier and loudspeaker(s).
Incorrect connections could lead to unexpected results or damage to loudspeaker
components.
Note also that each preset in the DSP 260 includes DSP and bandpass parameters for the
output channels. It is possible for a new preset to change an output from Hi to Sub, for
instance. Make sure that connections to amplifiers and loudspeakers are correct before
using a new preset.
Input Level Adjustment
The final step in setting up, installing and connecting the DSP 260 is to set proper input levels to the unit.
The DSP 260 does not itself have input level controls. Proper input level setting is accomplished by setting
the output level from the (L / R) bus outputs from the connected mixer (or other audio output device). The
input meters monitor the input level of either analog or AES/EBU inputs, depending on the input mode
selection set in the Setup Menu.
Optimal signal-to-noise performance is obtained when the nominal (average), input level
consistently lights the +3dBu (green) and / or +6dBu (Yellow) LED indicators. As the
DSP 260 is a digital audio device – and digital clipping produces very unpleasant results –
the Clip (red) LED should never light. If it does, reduce the output level of the connected
mixer.
Input levels to the DSP 260 can be reduced 6dB with the rear panel pad switch to
compensate for higher-level output from mixers and other audio devices. For ideal
signal to noise performance when connecting the DSP 260 to high output level
devices, engage the 6dB pad rather than turning down the output of the connected
device.

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Owner‘s Manual 17
4 Editing & Operation
4.1 Factory Presets
The DSP 260 comes with 60 factory presets to configure and manage typical sound reinforcement
systems. Factory presets can be recalled at will. Limited editing can be performed from the front-panel
LCD user interface such as output level, mute and limiter threshold setting. Installers can identify factory
presets with system configurations that are not appropriate for the given installation and lock-out and hide
them from the operator.
4.2 User Presets – Standard Editing
The DSP 260 uniquely allows for limited access to and visibility of
parameters. Via the DSP 260 Graphic User Interface Application,
the installer can determine which parameters may be accessed.
4.3 User Preset – Full Editing
The DSP 260 can also be configured in full-edit mode. All matrix
routing presets are available including 2 x 6 Full Edit. All DSP
parameters are accessible and adjustable. Resulting settings can be
saved into 20 User Preset locations for later recall. Editing can be
performed from the front-panel LCD display or on a PC with the
DSP 260 Editor Graphic User Interface Application. Full editing is
recommended only for experienced installers / operators.
4.4 Unpacking & Warranty
Carefully remove the DSP 260 from its packaging and packaging materials. Please save all packing
materials and box, should you ever need to return the DSP 260 for warranty service.
Included with the DSP 260 is this Owner’s Manual, Warranty card and A.C. power cable. Contact your
distributor, dealer or installer if any of these items is not included.
Fill out the warranty card in its entirety and return it to the address noted. Only products for which
completed warranty cards have been received will be covered fully under warranty.1The factory warranty
for your DSP 260 is 36 months (3 years), from the date of purchase. Please save the warranty certificate
and receipt; which must be presented at the time of warranty service for the factory warrantee to be valid.
1) Warranty coverage rights vary by state and country. Your warranty rights may vary. Consult your distributor, dealer or installer for your warranty rights.

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5 Run-time Mode
5.1 LCD Display
On power-up, the DSP 260 boots and displays the run-time screen.
The current preset memory location and name are displayed as well
as the configuration on which the preset is based.
The LCD display‘s contrast can be adjusted in the Setup Menu to
accommodate different viewing angles.
5.2 Input Level Meters
During operation, the left and right input level meters display the signal present at the
DSP 260’s analog and Digital inputs. The DSP 260 does not itself have input level controls.
Proper input level setting is accomplished by setting the output level from the (L / R) bus
outputs from the connected mixer or other audio source.
Optimal signal-to-noise performance is obtained when the nominal (average), input level
consistently lights the +3dBu (green) and / or +6dBu (yellow) LED indicators. As the
DSP 260 is a digital audio device – and digital clipping produces very unpleasant results –
the Clip (red) LED should never light. If it does, reduce the output level of the connected
mixer. The -6dB PAD button at the rear panel can be used for adjusting the input level also.
5.3 Output Level Meters
Each output channel has an eight-segment
output level VU meter. Meter response
characteristics can be selected in the Setup
menu: Normal Fast, Peak-Hold or Slow
Decay. The yellow segment indicates that
limiting is being applied to the output channel.
It is important to understand how the meters
work and what they are displaying. The Output Meters are displayed as “dB to Limiter Threshold”. In other
words, these meters will display the headroom between the output level and the limiter threshold. When
viewed in conjunction with the Gain Reduction meters, this provides a complete display of level and
headroom before and after limiting has been engaged to allow system levels to be optimized. This also
CAUTION
Before operating the sound reinforcement system, and any time a new preset
is recalled, check the configuration display to make sure that it is appropriate
for your system and that connections to your system are correct for the cur-
rent configuration. Failure to do so could cause unexpected results or dam-
age to the system or its components.

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Owner‘s Manual 19
means that the output metering will be displayed differently depending on the limiter threshold setting.
The red segments indicates clipping of the D/A converters and should be avoided by adjusting the Output
Level setting of the output channel.
5.4 Output Gain Reduction Meters
Each output channel has a four-segment gain reduction meter that shows the effect of the
output channel Limiter on output level; from 0dB to -12dB. Output limiting can be bypassed
by entering Edit mode, selecting Output Channel Limiter and selecting a limiter threshold of
+21 dBu (8.691V) or turning the Bypass parameter to “On”.
5.5 Output Channel Mute Buttons
Each output channel has a lighted Mute button. Pressing the Mute button turns off the output of that
channel. The button lights red as an alert. Press the Mute button again to restore the output channel’s
signal.
5.6 Output Channel Function Indicators
Each output channel has a four-segment function display for informational purposes only. For
any given configuration possible with the DSP 260, an output channel may be identified as a
sub, low, low/mid, mid, mid/hi, hi or full range output. One or two adjacent LED’s are
displayed to indicate all possible output bandpasses. (Full range is indicated by all lit LED’s.)
5.7 Preset Recall
The DSP 260 preset memory provides 60 factory
program presets and can store up to 20 user presets.
(F01-F60, U01–U20) Factory presets have been
designed to represent common system configurations
utilizing Dynacord loudspeaker systems. User presets
allow you to accommodate other system configurations
and / or loudspeaker systems.
To recall a preset, press the front panel Recall button. The display
switches to the Recall Preset screen and displays the next in a list of
available presets in memory. Using the Value Up and Down buttons,
select the preset to be recalled. Valid presets will display the preset
name. Empty presets will display a “?”.
Select a valid preset and press Recall again. The display will
prompt, “Recall Preset? Press Recall”. Press Recall a third time to confirm and load the new preset.
Recall

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20 Owner‘s Manual
If the preset you are recalling is based on a configuration different
from that of the current preset, the display will prompt, “Changing
config can damage speakers”, to remind you that the new preset
may not be appropriate for your system as it is currently connected.
Press Recall again to confirm and load the new preset.
To exit the Recall process without loading a new preset, press the Edit, Setup or any of the DSP block
buttons. (Edit or Setup buttons will return the display to run-time mode. DSP block buttons will display the
corresponding DSP block edit screen.)
5.8 Preset Store
Edited presets can be stored in one of 20 User Preset
locations. (U01 – U20) To store a preset, press the
Store button. The LCD display will switch to the Store
Program screen. Use the Value Up and Down buttons
to select the user destination. Locations that already
have presets saved in them will display a preset name.
Empty locations will display “?” in the name field. You may select an empty location, or a location of a
preset that will be over-written.
Press the < Select > buttons to navigate
down to the preset name field. Use the
Value Up and Down buttons to select the
field for each letter / symbol character. The
DSP 260 provides the complete ANSI
character set, including lower-case &
upper-case letters, numerals and symbols. Pressing and holding the Value Up and Down buttons will scroll
rapidly through the character set. Press the < Select > buttons to move to the next or previous character
position.
When the preset is named, press
Store again. If the preset location
was previously empty, the display
will prompt “Are you sure? Press
Store”. If you are overwriting an
existing preset the display will
prompt “Overwrite Preset? Press Store”. In either case, press Store again to proceed and store the new
preset.
To Exit Store without saving the edited preset, press the Edit, Setup
or any of the DSP block buttons. (Edit or Setup buttons will return
the display to run-time mode. DSP block buttons will display the
corresponding DSP block edit screen.)
Make sure that the new preset is appropriate for your system, and that con-
nections to your system are correct for the current configuration. Failure to
do so could cause unexpected results or damage to the system or its com-
ponents.
Store