Mackie DX8 User manual

DX8 Digital Audio Mixer/
Signal Processor
with Automixing
Instruction Manual
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A B LOCK
MODE
POWER
COMM PORT
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 HILO EQ BA MASTER
DX8 DIGITAL MIXER
B
REMOTE BUS
TRIM
BUS A
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+20-20
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TRIM
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RECORD
AB
OUTPUTS
LOGIC I/O
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SERIAL NUMBER MANUFACTURING DATE
COMM PORT
DIRECT OUTPUTS
12345678
POWER
INPUT
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3A MAX
23456781
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DX8 DIGITAL MIXER
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PHANTOM POWER
48V DC
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11G1
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INPUTS
OUTPUTS
100 240V , 50/60Hz, 1A MAX
THE FOLLOWING ARE TRADEMARKS OR REGISTERED
TRADEMARKS OF MACKIE DESIGNS INC "MACKIE",
"MACKIE INDUSTRIAL", AND THE "RUNNING MAN" FIGURE
CONCEIVED, DESIGNED, AND MANUFACTURED
BY MACKIE DESIGNS INC WOODINVILLE • WA • USA
MADE IN USA • FABRIQUE AU USA • COPYRIGHT ©1999
LISTED COMMERCIAL
AUDIO EQUIPMENT
9Z39
R
ON

DX8 – 2
CAUTION AVIS
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE
NE PAS OUVRIR
CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK)
NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE
REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL
ATTENTION: POUR EVITER LES RISQUES DE CHOC
ELECTRIQUE, NE PAS ENLEVER LE COUVERCLE. AUCUN
ENTRETIEN DE PIECES INTERIEURES PAR L'USAGER. CONFIER
L'ENTRETIEN AU PERSONNEL QUALIFIE.
AVIS: POUR EVITER LES RISQUES D'INCENDIE OU
D'ELECTROCUTION, N'EXPOSEZ PAS CET ARTICLE
A LA PLUIE OU A L'HUMIDITE
The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol within an equilateral
triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated
"dangerous voltage" within the product's enclosure, that may be
of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.
Le symbole éclair avec point de flèche à l'intérieur d'un triangle
équilatéral est utilisé pour alerter l'utilisateur de la présence à
l'intérieur du coffret de "voltage dangereux" non isolé d'ampleur
suffisante pour constituer un risque d'éléctrocution.
The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to
alert the user of the presence of important operating and maintenance
(servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the appliance.
Le point d'exclamation à l'intérieur d'un triangle équilatéral est
employé pour alerter les utilisateurs de la présence d'instructions
importantes pour le fonctionnement et l'entretien (service) dans le
livret d'instruction accompagnant l'appareil.
8. Power Sources — Connect the DX8 to a power supply only of the type described in
these operation instructions or as marked on the rear panel. If using an external DC power
supply or battery pack, be sure the voltage corresponds to the range indicated on the rear
panel, and that it is connected with the correct polarity.
9. Power Cord Protection — Route power supply cords so that they are not likely to be walked
upon or pinched by items placed upon or against them, paying particular attention to cords at
plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit the DX8.
10. Object and Liquid Entry — Do not drop objects into or spill liquids into the inside of the DX8.
11. Damage Requiring Service — The DX8 should be serviced only by qualified service
personnel when:
A. The power-supply cord or the plug has been damaged; or
B. Objects have fallen, or liquid has spilled into the DX8; or
C. The DX8 has been exposed to rain; or
D. The DX8 does not appear to operate normally or exhibits a marked change
in performance; or
E. The DX8 has been dropped, or its chassis damaged.
12. Servicing — The user should not attempt to service the DX8 beyond those means
described in this operating manual. All other servicing should be referred to the Mackie
Service Department.
13. To prevent electric shock, do not use this polarized plug with an extension cord,
receptacle or other outlet unless the blades can be fully inserted to prevent blade exposure.
Pour préevenir les chocs électriques ne pas utiliser cette fiche polariseéavec un prolongateur,
un prise de courant ou une autre sortie de courant, sauf si les lames peuvent être insérées à
fond sans laisser aucune pariie àdécouvert.
14. Grounding or Polarization —Precautions should be taken so that the grounding or
polarization means of the DX8 is not defeated.
15. This apparatus does not exceed the Class A/Class B (whichever is applicable) limits for
radio noise emissions from digital apparatus as set out in the radio interference regulations of
the Canadian Department of Communications.
ATTENTION —Le présent appareil numérique n’émet pas de bruits radioélectriques
dépassant las limites applicables aux appareils numériques de class A/de class B (selon le
cas) prescrites dans le règlement sur le brouillage radioélectrique édictépar les ministere des
communications du Canada.
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
1. Read Instructions —Read all the safety and operation instructions before operating the DX8.
2. Retain Instructions —The safety and operating instructions should be kept for future reference.
3. HEED ALL WARNINGS —Follow all warnings on the DX8 and in these operating instructions.
4. FOLLOW ALL INSTRUCTIONS —Follow all operating and other instructions.
5. Water and Moisture —Do not use the DX8 near water –for example, near a bathtub,
washbowl, kitchen sink, laundry tub, in a wet basement, near a swimming pool, etc.
6. Ventilation —This DX8 should be situated so that its location or position does not
interfere with its proper ventilation. For example, it should not be situated on a bed,
sofa, rug, or similar surface that may block any ventilation openings, or placed in a built-
in installation such as a bookcase or cabinet that may impede the flow of air through
ventilation openings.
7. Heat —Locate the DX8 away from heat sources such as radiators, or other devices which
produce heat.
TABLE OF CONTENTS USING THE LOGIC I/O ..................................................... 16
FRONT PANEL LOCK ........................................................ 17
5. DX8-PC SOFTWARE ............................................................. 18
INSTALLING THE SOFTWARE ......................................... 18
UPGRADING THE SOFTWARE ........................................ 18
CONNECTING A PC .......................................................... 18
UPGRADING THE FIRMWARE ......................................... 18
OVERVIEW ........................................................................ 19
MENU BAR ....................................................................... 19
INDICATORS AND PRESETS ........................................... 21
BUTTONS ......................................................................... 23
CHANNEL STRIP .............................................................. 28
OUTPUT STRIP ................................................................. 29
6. SPECIFICATIONS .................................................................. 30
BLOCK DIAGRAM ............................................................. 30
DX8 SPECIFICATIONS ...................................................... 31
7. SERVICE INFORMATION ...................................................... 33
APPENDIX A: Logic Input Functions ............................................ 34
APPENDIX B: Logic Output Functions ......................................... 34
APPENDIX C: Selection Remote Predefined Functions ............. 35
APPENDIX D: Level Remote Predefined Functions .................... 35
CAUTION —Internal lithium battery.
Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced.
Replace only with the same or equivalent type.
1. SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS ....................................................... 2
2. INTRODUCTION ...................................................................... 3
KEY FEATURES ................................................................... 3
FRONT PANEL FEATURES ................................................. 4
REAR PANEL FEATURES ................................................... 5
SIGNAL-FLOW DIAGRAM ................................................. 6
3. INSTALLATION ....................................................................... 7
APPLICATION DIAGRAMS ................................................. 7
CONNECTIONS ................................................................ 12
AC POWER CONSIDERATIONS ....................................... 13
4. OPERATION ........................................................................... 14
QUICK START ................................................................... 14
USING INPUTS 1-8 ........................................................... 15
USING THE BUS A and B INPUTS .................................. 15
DIRECT OUTPUTS ............................................................ 16
OUTPUTS A and B ........................................................... 16
USING THE RECORD OUTPUT ....................................... 16
USING THE REMOTE BUS CONNECTION ..................... 16
WARNING —To reduce the risk of fire or electric
shock, do not expose this appliance to rain or moisture.

DX8 –3
2. INTRODUCTION
The DX8 is a DSP-based digital audio mixer and
signal processor designed for use in a variety of
installations such as churches, courtrooms,
convention centers, and hotels. It provides eight
universal inputs and two balanced outputs allowing
true 8x2 mixing for stereo or dual-zone applications.
The DX8 includes powerful signal processing
software to complement the 8x2 mixing structure.
Automixing capability allows the DX8 to be setup for
applications where a human operator is not available.
Each of the eight input channels is terminated to
two Phoenix-type detachable connectors. Each
connector is optimized to accept either microphone
or line-level signals. Microphone preamplifiers
employ Mackie’s proprietary XDR™ technology to
offer studio-class audio performance. Phantom
power of 48 VDC is switchable individually on each
input. Two auxiliary line-level inputs with trim are
provided, allowing analog signals to be mixed with
the A and B master mixes. Master outputs deliver
balanced line-level signals to detachable Phoenix-
type connectors as well as buffered unbalanced
signals to RCA connectors intended for recording.
The DX8 offers an intuitive front panel user
interface, consisting of dual-function LED bar graph
meters for each input and output. Input meters
indicate the presence of signal before signal pro-
cessing (pre-fader), while output meters indicate
actual level at the output (post-fader). Levels are set
by means of UP/DOWN pushbuttons dedicated to
each input and output. A MODE button is used to
select between Mix A and B, allowing adjustment
of levels to both mix outputs from the same set of
input controls. A third function of the MODE button
allows the user to LOCK the front panel controls
until a security unlock code is entered.
The DX8 offers flexible interface options through
dedicated inputs and outputs for control and
programming purposes. Two independent RS232
connectors are provided, one on the front panel and
one on the rear, for connection to a computer or
control system. A multi-pin (DB25F) connector on
the rear panel allows interface among the 10 Logic
Inputs and 10 Logic Outputs. This interface
connects to switches, LEDs, and other devices,
enabling hardware control and indication from
custom control panels. All logic inputs and outputs
are fully programmable in software. A proprietary
remote control bus allows connection of the
optional wired remotes over three-conductor cable.
Remotes are available in Volume Control (DX-RVC)
and 4-Switch (DX-SW4) versions and may be
combined in any configuration.
The DX8 is supplied with PC software that
allows access to all of the system’s settings and
configurations. The software offers access to the
Automixing controls, two 1/3-octave equalizers, two
5-band parametric equalizers, and two compressors
dedicated to the two master outputs. In addition, it
allows configuration and recall of up to 16 Presets, 8
input Priority Levels, 8 Mute Groups, and 8 Control
Groups. Force ON and OFF functions are provided,
with a selection of Relative or Absolute changes,
which can be used with the Priority settings to
create sophisticated audio management systems.
All settings and text labels are retained in the DX8,
and can be saved on the computer’s local drive.
The DX8 is UL and CE approved and designed
for continuous use in professional fixed installation
systems. An internal auto-ranging power supply
allows connection to mains voltages from 90-240V AC
at 50/60 Hz without requiring jumper or switch
setting changes. A 24 VDC input is provided for
applications where backup power is required.
Switchover to backup power is automatic and silent.
KEY FEATURES
• 32-bit DSP and 24-bit Analog/Digital Conversion
• 8 balanced XDR™ Mic/Line inputs with trim
• 2 balanced Line inputs direct to mix buses A and B
• 2 Independent Mix Buses and balanced Outputs
• 2 unbalanced Record Outputs
• 8 unbalanced Direct Channel Outputs
• Individual Level/Peak (PPM) metering on each Input and Output
• 3-band sweepable Hi/Lo shelving and mid-peaking EQ
on each Input
• 2-band sweepable shelving EQ on each Output
• 31-band Graphic EQ on each Output
• 5-band Parametric EQ on each Output
• One fully variable Compressor on each Output
• Independent Automixing function for each Output to maximize
acoustic gain and prevent feedback
• 10 Programmable Logic Inputs
• 10 Programmable Logic Outputs
• 2 independent RS-232 interface ports
• 48 VDC Phantom Power switch per input
• 24 VDC Backup Power input
• Hardware Expansion Port accepts optional modules
• PC Software application included
Part No. SW0065 Rev. A 05/03
© 2001-2003 Mackie Designs Inc. All Rights Reserved.

DX8 –4
TRIM
BUS A
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TRIM
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TRIM
BUS B
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+20-20
TRIM
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SERIAL NUMBER MANUFACTURING DATE
DIRECT OUTPUTS
POWER
INPUT
22
- 28V DC,
3A MAX
23456781
+G
G+
MIC
LINE
LINELINELINE
MIC
LINE
MIC
LINE
MIC
LINE
MIC
LINE
MIC
LINE
MIC
LINE
MIC
LINE
MIC
DX8 DIGITAL MIXER
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100 240V , 50/60Hz, 1A MAX
THE FOLLOWING ARE TRADEMARKS OR REGISTERED
TRADEMARKS OF MACKIE DESIGNS INC "MACKIE",
"MACKIE INDUSTRIAL", AND THE "RUNNING MAN" FIGURE
CONCEIVED, DESIGNED, AND MANUFACTURED
BY MACKIE DESIGNS INC WOODINVILLE • WA • USA
MADE IN USA • FABRIQUE AU USA • COPYRIGHT ©1999
LISTED COMMERCIAL
AUDIO EQUIPMENT
9Z39
R
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12345678 HILO EQ A MASTE
FRONT PANEL FEATURES
EQ LED DISPLAY
When an EQ UP/DOWN button is pressed, the EQ
meter indicates the amount of boost or cut of the
LO and HI frequencies in decibels (±15 dB).
When both "0" LEDs are lit, the gain is set to unity
(flat response).
Note: The EQ meters do not indicate signal level.
MASTER A/B UP/DOWN BUTTONS
These buttons adjust the output level for each
output bus.
MASTER OUTPUT LED DISPLAY
This indicates the signal level after the digital signal
processing and
MASTER gain stage, just prior to
the D/A converter. When any MASTER UP/DOWN
button is pressed, all the meters (except EQ) switch
from level metering to level setting indication. After
five seconds, the meters switch back to normal
peak program metering (PPM).
INPUT UP/DOWN BUTTONS
Use these buttons to adjust the mix level for each
input channel.
INPUT LED DISPLAY
This indicates the signal level after the mic preamp
stage, just after the A/D converter, but prior to any
digital signal processing. When any input UP/
DOWN button is pressed, all the meters (except
EQ) switch from level metering to level setting
indication. After five seconds, the meters switch
back to normal peak program metering (PPM).
When the 10 and 7 LEDs are both lit, the gain is set
to unity (0 dB).
EQ LO/HI UP/DOWN BUTTONS
Use these buttons to adjust the gain of the 2-band
shelving EQ on the outputs. The range is ±15 dB.

DX8 –5
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A B LOCK
MODE
POWER
COMM PORT
BA MASTER
DX8 DIGITAL MIXER
B
REMOTE BUS
A
RECORD
AB
OUTPUTS
LOGIC I/O
TRIM
8
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URING DATE
COMM PORT
12345678
LINE
MIC
-
30dB +30dB
U
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0
dB
PHANTOM POWER
48V DC
12 1 +5V
11G1
G+
G+
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INPUTS
OUTPUTS
ON
MODE
This switch changes the front panel operation
between Bus A and Bus B operation. In addition,
the LOCK position disables the front panel controls
to prevent unauthorized changes to the settings. A
security code must be entered to enable the front
panel controls when the DX8 is locked. See page 17
for more information on locking and unlocking the DX8.
COMM PORT
This is an RS-232 port on a 9-pin D-Sub connector,
which connects to a personal computer or other
compatible control system for external control of
the DX8 settings. A second COMM port on the rear
panel duplicates this function, for permanent
connection to an installed controller.
POWER
Use the POWER switch to turn the DX8 on and off.
REAR PANEL FEATURES
INPUTS 1-8
Each of the eight analog inputs has separate
balanced mic and line input connectors that use
Mackie’s acclaimed XDR mic preamps. These are 3-
pin Phoenix-type connectors. Use either the MIC or
LINE input, but only one can be used per channel.
TRIM
This rotary analog control is used to trim the gain of
the input signal for optimum signal-to-noise ratio in
the preamp stage. For mic-level signals, it provides
from 0 to +60 dB of gain. For line-level signals, it
provides from –30 dB to +30 dB of gain, with unity
(0 dB) at the center position. This control accepts a
maximum input signal of +18 dBu before clipping
(at unity gain).
PHANTOM POWER
These switches apply phantom power (+48 VDC) to
pins 2 and 3 of the selected mic input connectors.
Switch the PHANTOM POWER switch in the UP
position for an individual channel when using a
condenser microphone.
BUS A/B INPUTS
These analog inputs accept balanced line-
level signals and route the signal to the
internal buses. These inputs may serve as
additional zone inputs for program devices,
or to connect the BUS A and BUS B
outputs from another DX8. There is no DSP
processing on these inputs.
BUS A and B TRIM
These rotary analog controls are used to
trim the gain of the inputs to the buses.
This trim control provides from –20 dB to
+20 dB of gain, with unity (0 dB) at the
center-detent position.
DIRECT OUTPUTS
This 15-pin D-Sub connector supplies an
analog, unbalanced line-level signal from
each of the eight program inputs, post-
preamp and pre-processing. Use these
outputs to connect to another mixing
console for additional zone coverage, to a
telephone system for music-on-hold, or to
a multi-track recorder. See page 12 for the
Direct Output pinouts.