Graham-Patten SoundPals User manual

SoundPals™
User's Guide
interstage
Phistersvej 31, 2900 Hellerup, Danmark
Telefon [phone], fax [phone]
www.interstage.dk
-pro audio with a smile

Printing History
SoundPals™User’s Guide •Rev. B •January 1998 •Printed in U.S.A.
Part Number 08-2022-00A •The information contained in this guide is
subject to change without notice or obligation.
Copyright
© 1998 GRAHAM-PATTEN SYSTEMS, INC.
Contents of this publication may not be reproduced in any form without the
written permission of Graham-Patten. Reproduction or reverse engineering
of copyrighted software is prohibited.
FCC Compliance
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a
Class A digital device pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are
designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when
the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment
generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed
and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful
interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a
residential area is likely to cause harmful interference in which case the user
will be required to correct the interference at his own expense.
Warranty Statement
Graham-Patten warrants that the equipment it manufactures is free from
defects in workmanship and materials and meets applicable published
specifications. Equipment that has been operated within published ratings and
has not been subjected to abuse or modification, and which fails because of
such defects, will be replaced or repaired at the Company’s discretion if it is
returned, freight prepaid, to Graham-Patten within 180 days of receipt.
This warranty supersedes all other Warranties, express or implied. Graham-
Patten is not liable for any consequential damages.
NOTE Filling out and returning the warranty registration card will
extend your SoundPals warranty to one year.
Company Address

GRAHAM-PATTEN SYSTEMS, INC.
P.O. Box 1960
Grass Valley, California 95945
Telephone: [phone], (530) 273-
8412 Fax: [phone]
e-mail: [email protected]
World Wide Web: http://www.gpsys.com

SoundPals User's Guide Table of Contents • i
Table of Contents
Introduction 1
About This Guide......................................................................................1
What are SoundPals .................................................................................2
Documentation Conventions..................................................................4
Documentation Terms ..............................................................................4
Abbreviations............................................................................................5
Signals and Values....................................................................................5
Warnings....................................................................................................5
Looping.......................................................................................................6
Unpacking and Inspection.......................................................................6
Power Supply Note...................................................................................6
DAC-20 7
About the DAC-20....................................................................................7
DAC-20 Installation................................................................................10
Connecting Power...........................................................................10
Connecting Inputs ..........................................................................10
Connecting Outputs .......................................................................10
DAC-20 Operation...................................................................................11
Using the Gain Controls .................................................................11
Using the Headphone Monitor.....................................................11
DAC-20 Interconnection........................................................................12
DAC-20 Internal Jumpers.......................................................................14
DAC-20 Troubleshooting......................................................................15
DAC-20 Specifications...........................................................................16
Audio Specifications......................................................................16
Environmental Specifications and Dimensions..........................16

ii • Table of Contents SoundPals User's Guide
ADC-20 17
About the ADC-20..................................................................................17
ADC-20 Installation................................................................................20
Connecting Power...........................................................................20
Connecting Inputs ..........................................................................20
Connecting AES Reference...........................................................20
Connecting Outputs .......................................................................21
ADC-20 Operation...................................................................................21
Using the Gain Controls .................................................................21
Setting the Sample Frequency.......................................................21
ADC-20 Interconnection........................................................................22
ADC-20 Internal Jumpers.......................................................................24
ADC-20 Troubleshooting......................................................................25
ADC-20 Specifications...........................................................................26
Audio Specifications......................................................................26
Environmental Specifications and Dimensions..........................26
DFADE-2 27
About the DFADE-2...............................................................................27
DFADE-2 Installation.............................................................................30
Connecting Power...........................................................................30
Connecting Inputs ..........................................................................30
Connecting Outputs .......................................................................30
DFADE-2 Operation................................................................................32
Using the Gain Controls .................................................................32
Aligning Outputs ............................................................................32
Setting the DIP Switches................................................................33
DFADE-2 Interconnection.....................................................................34
DFADE-2 Remote Control......................................................................36
Remote Control Connection..........................................................36
Remote Control Operation.............................................................38
DFADE-2 Internal Jumpers....................................................................40
DFADE-2 Troubleshooting...................................................................41
DFADE-2 Specifications........................................................................42
Audio Specifications......................................................................42
Remote Control Specifications......................................................42
Environmental Specifications and Dimensions..........................42

SoundPals User's Guide Table of Contents • iii
DMIX-41 43
About the DMIX-41................................................................................43
DMIX-41 Installation..............................................................................47
Connecting Power...........................................................................47
Connecting Inputs ..........................................................................47
Connecting Outputs .......................................................................48
DMIX-41 Operation................................................................................48
Local Operation...............................................................................48
AC-3 Operation................................................................................49
DMIX-41 Interconnection......................................................................49
DMIX-41 Remote Control......................................................................52
Remote Control Connection..........................................................52
Remote Control Operation.............................................................53
DMIX-41 Internal Jumpers.....................................................................55
Setting Output Channel Status.....................................................56
DMIX-41 Troubleshooting....................................................................57
DMIX-41 Specifications.........................................................................58
Audio Specifications......................................................................58
Remote Control Specifications......................................................58
Environmental Specifications and Dimensions..........................58
DMIC-20 59
About the DMIC-20................................................................................59
DMIC-20 Installation..............................................................................62
Connecting Power...........................................................................62
Connecting Inputs ..........................................................................62
Connecting AES Reference...........................................................62
Connecting Outputs .......................................................................63
Using Phantom Power....................................................................63
DMIC-20 Operation.................................................................................63
Adjusting Microphone Sensitivity...............................................63
DMIC-20 Interconnection......................................................................64
DMIC-20 Internal Jumpers.....................................................................66
DMIC-20 Troubleshooting....................................................................67
DMIC-20 Specifications.........................................................................68
Audio Specifications......................................................................68
Environmental Specifications and Dimensions..........................68

iv • Table of Contents SoundPals User's Guide
DA-14 69
About the DA-14.....................................................................................69
DA-14 Installation...................................................................................72
Connecting Power...........................................................................72
Connecting Inputs ..........................................................................72
Connecting Outputs .......................................................................72
DA-14 Operation and Application........................................................73
DA-14 Interconnection...........................................................................74
DA-14 Internal Jumpers..........................................................................76
DA-14 Troubleshooting.........................................................................77
DA-14 Specifications..............................................................................77
Environmental Specifications and Dimensions..........................77
Audio Specifications......................................................................78
DATS 79
About the DATS.....................................................................................79
DATS Installation...................................................................................80
DATS Specifications..............................................................................80
Appendix A. Inside the Module 81
In This Appendix.....................................................................................81
Before You Begin ....................................................................................81
Opening The Module .............................................................................82
Closing The Module...............................................................................83
Appendix B. External Power 85
About Power Supplies............................................................................85
CE Compliance.........................................................................................85
Portable Power Sources..........................................................................85
Power Supply Specifications.................................................................86
Power Supply Sources............................................................................86
Appendix C. Rack Tray 87
In This Appendix.....................................................................................87
Index 89

SoundPals User's Guide Introduction • 1
Introduction
About This Guide
This guide provides installation and operating instructions for Graham-
Patten’s full line of SoundPals™modular digital audio processing
products. The following chapters are included:
•The “Introduction” chapter describes the guide and introduces
the SoundPals products.
•The “DAC-20” chapter provides information on the DAC-20
AES digital-to-analog converter.
•The “ADC-20” chapter describes the ADC-20 stereo analog-
to-digital AES converter.
•The “DFADE-2” chapter describes the DFADE-2 stereo AES
two-channel digital fader.
•The “DMIX-41” chapter provides information on the DMIX-41
four-channel digital mixer.
•The “DMIC-20” chapter describes the DMIC-20 stereo digital
microphone pre-amplifier.
•The “DA-14” chapter describes the DA-14 AES 1-in 4-out
distribution amplifier.
•The “DATS” chapter describes the DATS (Digital Audio
Transmission System) converters.
•Appendix A, “Inside The Module” provides instructions for
opening and closing all SoundPals modules.
•Appendix B, “External Power” provides generic power supply
information for all SoundPals modules.
•Appendix C, “Rack Tray” provides instructions for installing
SoundPals modules in the optional Rack Tray.
A comprehensive index is also provided for your reference.

2• Introduction SoundPals User's Guide
For simplicity and convenience in locating information in this guide,
each SoundPals chapter follows the same basic outline:
•Product Description •Interconnection
•Installation •Internal Jumpers
•Operation •Troubleshooting
•Remote Control (if applicable) •Specifications
What are SoundPals
Each Graham-Patten SoundPals module is essentially a digital audio
building block that can be used independently, or interconnected to
perform more advanced mixing and processing functions.
The following SoundPals modules are described in this guide:
•The DAC-20 is a stereo, 20-bit, AES digital-to-analog
converter that offers stereo headphone monitoring, automatic
detection and deemphasis, LED indicators for emphasis and
valid AES input, and analog output level adjustments.
•The ADC-20 is a stereo 20-bit, analog-to-digital AES converter
that offers adjustable input level, active balanced and
unbalanced outputs, and LED level indicators for normal and
overload conditions.
•The DFADE-2 is a stereo digital fader that offers local level
adjustment, unity gain switches for each channel, remote fade,
crossfade, channel-swapping and pan, 20-bit or 24-bit
processing, active balanced and unbalanced outputs, and LED
status indicators.
•The DMIX-41 is a four stereo-channel digital mixer that offers
remote input selection capability, 20-bit or 24-bit processing,
active balanced and unbalanced outputs, plus LED indicators
for continuous input status.
•The DMIC-20 is a dual microphone pre-amplifier with a built-in
20-bit analog-to-digital AES converter. The unit offers
adjustable microphone sensitivity, LED level indicators, and
coupling for phantom power.
•The DA-14 is a one-input, four-output “data regenerator” for
distributing AES digital audio signals. Versions are available
in both AES3 and AES3ID formats.

SoundPals User's Guide Introduction • 3
SoundPals can be used in both standalone and system configurations:
•In a “standalone” configuration, each SoundPals module is
designed to perform a specific audio processing function such
as digital-to-analog conversion or microphone pre-
amplification. In this way, each module functions as a perfect
low-cost adjunct to larger mixing consoles (such as the
Graham-Patten D/ESAM series) — for single-purpose digital
processing tasks.
•In a “system” configuration, SoundPals can be linked to form
more comprehensive digital audio tools. For both field
recording and studio applications,SoundPals can be used to
seamlessly perform functions that would otherwise require
extensive peripheral gear. Multi-purpose tasks such as
inserting analog equipment in a digital stream or adding
mix/fade capability to a workstation environment can be
performed with ease. Best of all, SoundPals “systems” can be
re-configured quickly and easily — to suit your changing
audio production requirements.
All SoundPals modules are extremely compact, rugged, and identical in
size for ease of installation, interconnection, and use. In addition,
SoundPals support AES3ID. This allows longer, more robust AES
signal distribution using standard coaxial cable. Error free distances of
1000 feet can be attained using inexpensive coaxial cables.

4• Introduction SoundPals User's Guide
Documentation Conventions
The following documentation conventions are used in this guide:
•Buttons, knobs, connectors, and switches are indicated in
bold-faced capital letters. For example:
Adjust the leftGAIN TRIM to …
•Primary sections are listed in bold text, with a line above:
Primary Section
•Secondary sections are listed in bold text, with no line:
Secondary Section
Documentation Terms
The following documentation terms are used throughout this guide:
•“Input” refers to a SoundPals module input, either analog or
digital. An analog input is a single monophonic track from an
analog audio source; a digital input representstwo tracks
(stereo, left and right) from a digital audio source.
•“Output” refers to a SoundPals audio output, either analog or
digital. An analog output is a single monophonic track; a
digital output representstwo tracks (stereo, left and right).
•“Source” refers to a monophonic or stereo device (analog or
digital) that is capable of generating an audio signal. Typical
sources are tape machines, audio mixers, and microphones.
•“Channel” refers to the specific left or right portion of the
stereo audio signal (digital or analog).
•“Unity Gain” means that the audio output is equal to the input.
The signal is not adjusted, and simply passed through.
•“Gain Controls” are used to make level adjustments.

SoundPals User's Guide Introduction • 5
Abbreviations
The following abbreviations are used throughout this guide:
Abbreviation Description
AES Audio Engineering Society
ATR Audio Tape Recorder
DA Distribution Amplifier
DTR Digital Tape Recorder
GPS Graham-Patten Systems
Pot Potentiometer
SRC Sample Rate Converter
VTR Video Tape Recorder
Signals and Values
Note the following important information regarding signals and values:
•AES3 signals are balanced, 2–7Vp-p at 110Ωand use XLR
connectors.
•AES3ID signals are unbalanced, 1Vp-p at 75Ωand use BNC
connectors.
•0dBu =0.778Vrms
Warnings
Please observe the following important warnings:
•Heed all warnings on the unit and in the instructions.
•Do not use this product in or near water.
•Route power cords and other cables so that they are not likely
to be damaged. Disconnect power before cleaning. Do not
use liquid or aerosol cleaners; use only a damp cloth.

6• Introduction SoundPals User's Guide
Looping
Looping between different SoundPals should only be attempted when
they are within approximately 3 feet of each other. Custom builtY
cables (for AES3 signals) or BNC Tadapters (for AES3ID signals) must
be used for signal looping.
Unpacking and Inspection
When you receive your SoundPals modules, inspect the cartons for
signs of damage. Contact your dealer and the shipper immediately if
you suspect any damage has occurred during shipping. Check the
contents of each box to be sure that all parts are included. If any items
are missing, contact your dealer immediately.
NOTE Remember that filling out and returning the warranty
registration card will extend your SoundPals
warranty from 180 days to one year.
Power Supply Note
SoundPals are delivered with a power connector only. A separate
power solution must be obtained. Graham-Patten offers several power
solutions for both domestic and international customers. Refer to
Appendix B, “External Power,” for detailed power specifications for
users who wish to configure their own power solutions, rather than
purchase one from Graham-Patten.

SoundPals User's Guide DAC-20 • 7
DAC-20
About the DAC-20
The SoundPals DAC-20 is a stereo, 20-bit, AES digital-to-analog
converter. The unit offers the following features:
•Stereo headphone monitoring with level control
•20-bit D/A converter
•Automatic detection and deemphasis
•LED indicators for emphasis and valid AES input
•Separate analog output level adjustments
(-10 to +4 dBu at -20 dBFS)
•Terminating or bridging input
•Optional rack mounting tray (1 RU)
•Compact size, rugged construction
The DAC-20 takes one AES input (on an XLR or BNC connector) and
converts it to two analog outputs (on XLR connectors).

8• DAC-20 SoundPals User's Guide
The figure below illustrates the DAC-20’s front panel:
DAC-20 DAC-20
+6V
EMPH
3
7
8
1 2
VOLUME LR
4
ERR
65
GAIN
1) Stereo Headphone Connector — accepts standard low-
impedance stereo headphones.
2) Headphone Gain Control— adjusts stereo headphone volume.
The control does not affect analog output levels.
3) Left Analog Output Gain Trim — the L GAIN trim sets the
analog line level for the left channel output.
4) Right Analog Output Gain Trim — the R GAIN trim sets the
analog line level for the right channel output.
5) Emphasis Detection LED — the EMPHLED lights when the
channel status bits of the AES input signal indicates that pre-
emphasis has been applied to the signal. If the sampling
frequency is within 4% of 48 kHz, 44.1 kHz or 32 kHz, de-
emphasis correction is automatically applied.
6) AES Input Error LED — the ERR LED lights whenno signal
is applied to the AES input, or when the signal isnot valid. A
non-valid signal exhibits errors such as format violations, bit
errors, low level, or incorrect frequency.
7) Power Connector — accepts the power jack from the 6VDC
power supply. Refer to Appendix B for more information
regarding external power.
8) Power LED — the large green LED below the power jack lights
when power is applied.

SoundPals User's Guide DAC-20 • 9
The figure below illustrates the DAC-20’s rear panel:
AES IN RIGHT OUT LEFT OUT
MADE IN THE USA
1 2 3 4
1) AES Balanced Input — the AES IN XLR connector accepts a
balanced AES input signal.
2) AES Unbalanced Input — the AES IN BNC connector accepts
an unbalanced AES input signal.
NOTE Do not connect both AES inputs at the same time.
3) Right Channel Analog Output — provides decoded right
channel output at analog line level, adjustable via R GAINon
the front panel.
4) Left Channel Analog Output — provides decoded left channel
output at analog line level, adjustable via L GAINon the front
panel.

10 • DAC-20 SoundPals User's Guide
DAC-20 Installation
This section provides instructions for connecting power, AES inputs,
and analog outputs.
NOTE For information on rack mounting the DAC-20 with
the optional rack tray, refer to Appendix C.
Connecting Power
Plug a 6VDC power supply into the appropriate voltage outlet for your
specific country, and connect the end of the cord into the DAC-20 jack
marked +6V. Secure the locking ring finger tight. The green LED below
the jack lights when power is applied.
Connecting Inputs
Connect a digital input signal, between 30 kHz and 50 kHz sampling
frequency, to one of the two inputs markedAES IN. The ERR LED on
the front panel will light until a valid input signal is applied.
NOTE Do not connect both AES inputs at the same time.
The inputs are normally terminated internally with 110Ω(AES3) and 75
Ω(AES3ID). When you need to loop an input signal to several
SoundPals, the signal must be terminatedonly once, and always at the
last unit in the chain. Refer to the “DAC-20 Internal Jumpers” section
for information on changing the input termination.
Connecting Outputs
Connect the analog audio outputs from the LEFT OUT and RIGHT
OUT connectors to the inputs of the desired analog destination device.
Please note:
•Balanced outputs are taken from pins 2 (+ve) and 3 (−ve) with
pin 1 and the shell grounded.
•Unbalanced outputs are taken from pin 2 with pin 1 and the
shell grounded.
CAUTION Do not connect pin 3 to the low (grounded) side of
an unbalanced load.
See the “DAC-20 Operation” section for instructions on adjusting level
for conditions other than+4dBu reference with 20dB headroom.

SoundPals User's Guide DAC-20 • 11
DAC-20 Operation
This section provides instructions for using the gain controls, aligning
outputs, and adjusting the headphone monitor.
Using the Gain Controls
Forsetting left and right output levels, each output has its own level
adjustment on the front panel. Outputs are factory-set for +4dBu at -
20dBFS. Other levels can be set by using the following alignment
procedure:
To align the left and right analog outputs:
1. Connect a reference digital tone generator to the DAC-20’s
AES IN connector.
2. Connect analog VU meters to the LEFT OUT and RIGHT
OUT connectors.
3. Turn on the digital reference tone, and while metering the
analog output levels, adjust the associatedLand Rtrimmers
for the desired output level.
Using the Headphone Monitor
The analog outputs may be monitored with a pair of stereo headphones
plugged into the headphone jack. Best results are obtained with a
headphone impedance of 20–50Ω. Use the associated stereo
VOLUMEcontrol to set a comfortable listening level.

12 • DAC-20 SoundPals User's Guide
DAC-20 Interconnection
This section provides basic and advanced interconnection diagrams.
•Basic — Monitoring Digital Signals
In this basic application, connect the DAC to an AES patch
panel. You can then quickly monitor the signal on any circuit,
using either headphones or VU meters.
AES Jackfield
SoundPals DAC-20
Analog VU Meters
Stereo
Headphones
AES In
AES In
Right Out
Left Out
PWR
Headphones
Volume
R Trim
L Trim
•Basic — Inserting Analog Equipment
In this application, an analog ATR is seamlessly inserted in a
digital stream, using both the DAC and ADC together.
SoundPals DAC-20
AES
Output
SoundPals ADC-20
AES
Input
Analog
ATR
AES In
AES In
Right Out
Left Out
PWR
Headphones
Volume
R Trim
L Trim
AES Out
AES Ref
Right In
Left In
PWR
R Trim
L Trim
AES Out