Phonic HELIX BOARD 24 FIREWIRE User manual

Helix Board 24 FireWire MKII
FireWire-enabled Mixing Console

1. Read these instructions before operating this
apparatus.
2. Keep these instructions for future reference.
3. Heed all warnings to ensure safe operation.
4. Follow all instructions provided in this document.
5. Do not use this apparatus near water or in locations
where condensation may occur.
6. Clean only with dry cloth. Do not use aerosol or liquid
cleaners. Unplug this apparatus before cleaning.
7. Do not block any of the ventilation openings. Install
in accordance with the manufacturer
’ s instructions.
8. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators,
heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including
.
9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or
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 is provided for your safety. If
the provided plug does not 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 plug, convenience receptacles,
and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
11. Only use attachments/accessories by the
manufacturer.
12. Use only with a cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or
table 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 lighting
storms or when unused for long
periods of time.
14. Refer all servicing to 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.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK,
DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK)
NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE
REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL
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 ’
magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.
The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is in-
tended to alert the user to the presence of important operat-
ing and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature
accompanying the appliance.
WARNING: To reduce the risk of or electric shock, do
not expose this apparatus to rain or moisture.
CAUTION: Use of controls or adjustments or performance
of procedures other than those may result in
hazardous radiation exposure.
The apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing and that no objects with liquids, such as vases,
shall be placed on the apparatus. The MAINS plug is used as the disconnect device, the disconnect device shall
remain readily operable.
Warning: the user shall not place this apparatus in the area during the operation so that the mains switch
can be easily accessible.
CAUTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN

Helix Board 24 FireWire MKII
Phonic preserves the right to improve or alter any information within this document without prior notice.
V1.0 SEP 11th,2006
FireWire-enabled Mixing Console
INTRODUCTION.......................................................................................................................... 4
FEATURES................................................................................................................................... 4
PACKAGE INCLUDES ................................................................................................................. 5
GETTING STARTED .................................................................................................................... 5
CHANNEL SETUP ........................................................................................................................5
CONVERTING TO TABLE TOP MODE ........................................................................................6
INSTALLING THE RACK MOUNT KIT..........................................................................................7
MAKING CONNECTIONS ............................................................................................................8
INPUTS AND OUTPUTS ....................................................................................................8
MAIN MIXING PANEL ......................................................................................................10
CONTROLS AND SETTINGS .....................................................................................................10
REAR PANEL ...................................................................................................................10
CHANNEL CONTROLS ................................................................................................... 11
DIGITAL EFFECT SECTION.............................................................................................12
MASTER SECTION .........................................................................................................13
FIREWIRE PRE / POST SWITCHES ...............................................................................15
FIREWIRE INTERFACE..............................................................................................................16
SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS..............................................................................................16
DRIVER INSTALLATION...................................................................................................16
CHANNEL ASSIGNMENT.................................................................................................20
CUBASE LE .....................................................................................................................20
HELIX BOARD CONTROL PANEL ..................................................................................21
TROUBLESHOOTING ......................................................................................................23
DIGITAL EFFECTS TABLE ........................................................................................................24
APPLICATION .............................................................................................................................25
SPECIFICATIONS ......................................................................................................................27
DIMENSIONS..............................................................................................................................29
BLOCK DIAGRAM ......................................................................................................................30

4Helix Board 24 FireWire MKII
INTRODUCTION
Thank you for purchasing the Helix Board 24 FireWire
MKII, one of Phonic’s newest mixers that sounds great
and works hard both in the studio and on the road. The
mixer features a FireWire interface that can stream up
to 18 independent channels of audio to the computer
and return two tracks for monitoring, all at screaming
fast transfer rates of up to 24-bit/96 kHz. Also featured
is an onboard 32/40-bit digital multi-effect processor
providing 100 popular programs plus tap delay, test-
tones and foot switch jacks. The multi-directional
Input/Output pod makes the device versatile; making
rack mounting or table-top connections much easier.
There are sixteen extremely low noise Mic preamps,
each with individual phantom power, and sixteen
1/4” phone jacks spread across the Helix Board 24
FireWire MKII 16 mono channels. Each channel
features a 3-band EQ (with a sweepable mid control),
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for removing troublesome stage-rumble. Additional
features include AUX sends and returns, input and
output soloing, four true subgroups, dedicated Mono/
Subwoofer output with selectable Low Pass Filter, S/
PDIF digital outputs, Steinberg Cubase LE workstation
software and an included rack-mounting kit.
We know how eager you are to get started – wanting
to get the mixer out and hook it up to your computer
is probably your number one priority right now – but
before you do, we strongly urge you to take a look
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instructions and warnings on the set up, use and
applications of your brand new Helix Board 24
FireWire MKII. If you do happen to be one of the many
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we just urge you to at least glance at the Instant Setup
and FireWire Interface sections. After glancing at or
reading through the manual (we applaud you if you do
read the entire manual), please store it in a place that
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FEATURES
• 24-input analog mixer with extremely low noise
circuitry
•96kHz FireWire interface for streaming 18
independent channels of audio to computer with
near-zero latency
•Pre/post switches for swapping streaming input
channels to computer from pre low cut, EQ to post
EQ, post fader
•2 channels of monitoring from computer via
FireWire interface, can be assigned to control
room monitors, main mix and AUX 1
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multi-effect processor with 100 programs plus tap
delay and foot switch jacks
•16 Mic/Line channels with inserts
•3-band EQ with swept mid-range
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•AUX 1 & 2 with Pre/Post switch
•Six AUX send mixing bus
•Four stereo AUX returns, three with effect to
monitor
•+48V phantom power on Mic channels
•Four true subgroups with main L and R routing
switches
•Direct outputs for multi-track recording
•Control Room and Phones outputs with multi-input
source matrix
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to 160 Hz for subwoofer
•Dual-position I/O pod
•Built-in switching power supply with universal
connector, 100-240 VAC, 50/60 Hz
•Rack-mounting kit included
•44.1k S/PDIF digital audio output
•Compatible with Mac OSX and Windows XP
•Steinberg Cubase LE included

5
Helix Board 24 FireWire MKII
PACKAGE INCLUDES
1 x Helix Board 24 FireWire MKII mixer
1 x FireWire cable
1 x CD-ROM with ASIO & WDM drivers
1 x CD-ROM with Steinberg Cubase LE
1 x Power cable
1 x Rack mounting kit
If any items are missing from your package, please
contact your local Phonic dealer
GETTING STARTED
1. Ensure all power is turned off on your mixer. To
totally ensure this, the AC cable should not be
connected to the unit.
2. All faders and level controls should be set at the
lowest level and all channels off to ensure no
sound is inadvertently sent through the outputs
when the device is switched on. All levels can be
altered to acceptable degrees after the device is
turned on using the channel setup instructions.
3. Plug any necessary equipment into the device’s
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speakers, monitors, signal processors, and/or
recording devices.
4. Plug the supplied AC cable into the AC inlet on the
back of the device and then into a power outlet of
a suitable voltage.
5. Turn the power switch on and follow the channel
setup instructions to get the most out of your
equipment.
CHANNEL SETUP
1. To ensure the correct audio level of the input
channel is selected, each of the Mixer’s Channel’s
ON buttons should be disengaged (which should
turn the corresponding LED indicator off), as
well as the Solo buttons on each channel and all
buttons in the Control Room Source section, with
exception to the Main L/R button.
2. Ensure the channel you wish to set has a signal
sent to it similar to the signal that will be sent when
in common use. For example, if the channel has
a microphone connected to it, then you should
speak or sing at the same level the performer
normally would during a performance; if a guitar
is plugged into the channel, then the guitar should
also be strummed as it normally would be (and so
on). This ensures levels are completely accurate
and avoids having to reset them later.
3. Move the Channel fader and Maser fader to around
the 0 dB mark.
4. Turn the Channel ON.
5. Pushing the channel’s Solo button and releasing
the Pre/Post button on the CTRL RM section will
send the pre-fader signal of the activated channel
to the Control Room / Phones mixing bus and the
Level Meter will display the Control Room’s signal
properties.
6. Set the gain so the level meter indicates the audio
level is around 0 dB (it is advisable to never let the
level exceed 7 dB).
7. This channel is now ready to be used; you can stop
making the audio signal.
8. You can now repeat the same process for other
channels if you wish.

6Helix Board 24 FireWire MKII
CONVERTING TO TABLE TOP MODE
When the connecting panel sits
perpendicular to the base of the
mixer, the design of the Helix
Board 24 FireWire MKII allows
uers to utilize it as a desk top
mixer, with a slightly angled face
to allow easier controllability.

7
Helix Board 24 FireWire MKII
INSTALLING THE RACK MOUNT KIT
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parallel to the mixer’s base. This is the optimal position for rack mounting, as it saves space.

8Helix Board 24 FireWire MKII
MAKING CONNECTIONS
Inputs and Outputs
1. XLR Jacks
These jacks accept typical 3-pin XLR inputs for
balanced and unbalanced signals. They can be used in
conjunction with microphones – such as professional
condenser, dynamic or ribbon microphones – with
standard XLR male connectors, and feature low
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replication. The Helix Board 24 FireWire MKII features
a total of sixteen Microphone inputs.
NB. When these inputs are used with condenser microphones, the
Phantom Power should be activated. However, when Phantom Power
is engaged, single ended (unbalanced) microphones and instruments
should not be used on the Mic inputs.
2. Line In Jacks
This input accepts typical 1/4” TRS (balanced) or
TS (unbalanced) inputs, for balanced or unbalanced
signals. They can be used in conjunction with a wide
range of line level devices, such as keyboards, drum
machines, electric guitars, and a variety of other
electric instruments.
3. Insert Jacks
The primary use for these 1/4” TRS phone jacks is
for the addition of external devices, such as dynamic
processors or equalizers, to the corresponding mono
input channel. This will require a Y cord that can
send and receive signals of the mixer to and from an
external processor. The tip of the TRS jack will send
the signal from the input channel, and the ring will
return the signal back to the mixer (the sleeve is the
grounding).
4. Direct Outputs
These connections are for the direct output of the
signals received by mono channels 1 through to 8,
post-fader, post-EQ, post-HPF, and post-mute. They
are most commonly used to connect multitrack
recorders.
5. Auxiliary (AUX) Returns
The 1/4” TRS AUX Return inputs are for the return
of audio to the Helix Board 24 FireWire MKII mixer,
processed by an external signal processor. If really
needed, they can also be used as additional stereo
inputs. The feed from these inputs can be adjusted
using the AUX Return controls on the face of the
mixer. When connecting a monaural device to the
AUX Return 1, 2 and 4 inputs, simply plug a 1/4”
phone jack into the left (mono) input, and the signal
will appear in the right as well. This, however, does not
work for the AUX Return 3.
NB.When any device is plugged into the mixer’s corresponding EFX
Return inputs (AUX Return 3), the signal processed by the mixer’s
internal digital effect engine is then not fed to the Main L/R; the signal
fed into the EFX Return 3 inputs will be instead.
6. Auxiliary (AUX) Sends
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line-level signal fed from the corresponding auxiliary
send mixing buses, and are best suited for use with
external effect processors or stage monitors. Feeding
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speaker allows artists to monitor their own instruments
or vocals whilst performing. The AUX 5 and AUX 6
Sends take their signal directly from AUX Controls 3
and 4, when the 5/6 Shift Button is activated.
7. Group Outs
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Group 1, 2, 3 and 4 Faders on the main panel of the
mixer. These outputs can be used to feed multi-track
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used along with the Main Speakers.
8. CTRL RM (Control Room) Output
These two 1/4” Phone Jack outputs feed the signal
altered by the Control Room level control on the face
of the mixer. This output has extensive use, as it can
be used to feed the signal from the mixer to an active
monitor, for the monitoring of the audio signal from
within a booth, among many other possible uses.
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Helix Board 24 FireWire MKII
9. DSP Effect Output
These ports are for the immediate output of the EFX
signal, processed by the internal effect processor, the
level of which is not determined by the AUX 3 Return /
EFX control on the face of the mixer. This can be used
to send to external devices, for monitoring purposes,
or returned to a few channel on the Helix Board 24
FireWire MKII, and routed to the AUX 1, 2, and 4
outputs (the AUX 3 control must, of course, be turned
down to avoid forming a feedback loop), as well as the
Group Outs, allowing the processed signal to be sent
to multiple destinations for various applications.
10. Foot Switch Jacks
These ports are for the inclusion of a foot switch (non-
latchable), used to remotely adjust properties of the
built-in Digital Effect processor, to the mixer. The
uppermost jack is used to turn the device on and off,
where the lower jack is used for adjusting tap delay
properties.
11. Mono / Subwoofer Output
This XLR and 1/4” TRS output feeds a monaural
signal of the Main L-R signals combined or the AUX 4
signal (depending on the Mono Source Select Switch),
the level of which is adjusted by the accompanying
level control. This is ideal for use with a mono sound
system, or for the addition of a subwoofer to your set
of speakers, adding more punch to low frequency
sounds at your PA or monitoring system. Also featured
is an Insert point, allowing external devices, such as
a compressor, to be used to alter the mono signal
before it is fed through the outputs.
12. Main Outputs
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signal sent from the main mixing bus. The primary
purpose of the two XLR jacks is to send the main
output to external devices, which may include power
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mixers, as well as a wide range of other possible
signal processors (equalizers, crossovers, etcetera).
The two 1/4” TRS phone jacks are able to send
the Main output to external devices that may run in
parallel with the mixer. This may include additional
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wide range of other possible signal processors.
13. Main Inserts
Located above each of the Main 1/4” Outputs, the
primary use for these 1/4” TRS phone jacks is for
the addition of external devices, such as dynamic
processors or equalizers, to the main L and main R
signals. This will require a Y cord that can send (pre-
fader) and receive signals to and from an external
processor.
14. 2T Return
These inputs accommodate connections from RCA
cables, able to receive signals from such devices as
tape and CD players.
15. Record Outputs
As with the 2T Return ports, these outputs will
accommodate RCA cables, able to be fed to a variety
of recording devices.
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10 Helix Board 24 FireWire MKII
16. S/PDIF Output
This RCA S/PDIF (Sony / Phillips Digital Interface)
jack is for the output of digital audio signals, allowing
the Main L&R audio from the Helix Board 24 FireWire
MKII to be passed to another device without having
to convert the signal from digital to analog and back
again. The output sampling rate is set to 44.1 kHz per
second – however, if the FireWire interface is in use, it
will use the sampling rate decided by the Helix Board
control software.
17. FireWire Interface
These two FireWire ports are for connecting the
Helix Board 24 FireWire MKII to any PC or Macintosh
computer. They allow all 16 input channels, as well
as an additional channel (as decided by the FireWire
Select Switch), to be sent to a PC or Mac computer.
The main stereo signal of the computer is also
returned to the Helix Board 24 FireWire MKII. The
returned FireWire signal can be utilized by selecting
it in the Control Room Source section on the face of
the mixer.
18. Power Connector and Fuse Holder
This port is for the addition of a power cable and
supply, allowing power to be supplied to the mixer.
Please use the power cable that is
included with this mixer only. The
Fuse holder, located above the AC
Power connector, is, of course, for
Helix Board 24 FireWire MKII fuse.
If the fuse happens to blow, open
the holder cover, and replace the
fuse with a suitable replacement
(as indicated underneath the
power connector).
Main Mixing Panel
19. 12V Lamp
This BNC socket allows you to attach a
12 Volt gooseneck lamp, allowing better
visibility in areas with poor light.
20. Phones Output
This output port is best suited for use with
headphones, allowing monitoring of the mix.
The audio level of this output is controlled
using the Phones control on the front panel’s
master section.
CONTROLS AND SETTINGS
Rear Panel
21. Power Switch
This switch is used to turn the mixer on and off. Ensure
you turn all level controls down before activating.
Activating the Power Switch will be accompanied
by an illuminated LED located above the right Level
Meter.
22. Phantom Power
By turning this switch selector
to the ON position will activate
+48V of phantom power for the
corresponding microphone inputs,
allowing condenser microphones
(well, the ones that don’t use batteries) to be used on
these channels. Activating the master Phantom Power
switch will be accompanied by an illuminated LED
above the left channel Level Meter. Before turning
Phantom Power on, turn the level control down of the
channel you wish to activate to a minimum and lower
all master output levels, as to avoid the possibility of a
ghastly popping sound from the speakers.
NB. Phantom Power should be used in conjunction with balanced
microphones. When Phantom Power is engaged, single ended
(unbalanced) microphones and instruments should not be used
on the Mic inputs. Phantom Power will not cause damage to most
dynamic microphones, however if unsure, the microphone’s user
manual should be consulted.
23. Mono Output Source Select Switch and Volume
Control
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level of the Mono/Subwoofer output. By using the
switch on the left, users are able to select signal they
wish to send through the Mono/Subwoofer output
between the main mix and AUX 4 mix. If, for example,
there is audio in the main mix you do not wish to
send to the subwoofer, simply sending all the audio
you wish to use to the AUX 4 send and set the select
switch to AUX 4.
24. Low Pass Filter
The mono output on the Helix Board 24 FireWire MKII
includes a Low Pass Filter (LPF) for removing high
frequency sounds to make the audio more appropriate
for use with subwoofers. The switch to the left turns
the LPF on and off, and the rotary control on the right
allows users to adjust the cut-off frequency between
60Hz and 160Hz.
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Helix Board 24 FireWire MKII
Channel Controls
25. Gain Control
This controls the sensitivity of the input signal of the
Line/Microphone input of mono channels. The gain
should be adjusted to a level that allows the maximum
use of the audio, while still maintaining the quality of
the feed. This can be accomplished by adjusting it to
a level that will ensure the peak indicator doesn’t light
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26. Low Cut Filter (75 Hz)
This button, located on channels 1 through to 16, will
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below 75 Hz at 18 dB per Octave, helping to remove
any unwanted ground noise or stage rumble.
27. High Frequency Control
This control is used to give a shelving boost or cut of
±15 dB to high frequency (12 kHz) sounds. This will
adjust the amount of treble included in the audio of
the channel, adding strength and crispness to sounds
such as guitars, cymbals, and synthesizers.
28. Middle Frequency Control
This control is used to provide a peaking style of boost
and cut to the level of middle frequency sounds at a
range of ±15 dB. The Helix Board 24 FireWire MKII
mixer also provides a sweep control, allowing you to
select a center frequency between 100 Hz and 8 kHz.
Changing middle frequencies of an audio feed can be
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as it is usually more desirable to cut middle frequency
sounds rather than boost them, soothing overly harsh
vocal and instrument sounds in the audio.
29. Low Frequency Control
This control is used to give a shelving boost or cut
of ±15 dB to low frequency (80 Hz) sounds. This will
adjust the amount of bass included in the audio of the
channel, and bring more warmth and punch to drums
and bass guitars.
30. AUX Controls
These four AUX controls alters the signal level that is
being sent to the auxiliary 1 to 4 mixing buses, the signal
of which is suitable for connecting stage monitors,
allowing artists to listen to the music that is being
played, or to fed to an external effect processors. AUX
1 and 2 feature a Pre/Post button, which alternates
the feed to the AUX mixing bus between a post and
pre-fader feed. AUX 3, on the other hand, acts as an
EFX send for the internal effect processor, or simply
as an Auxiliary output. Both the AUX 3 (EFX) and AUX
4 controls are post fader and are sent directly to the
corresponding outputs.
31. Pre/Post Switch Selector
AUX 1 and 2 feature a Pre/Post button, which
alternates the feed to the AUX mixing bus between a
post and pre-fader feed.
32. 5/6 Shift Button
This button changes the routing of the AUX 3 and 4
controls, allowing the channel’s signal to be directly
output through the AUX 5 and 6 outputs respectively.
33. Pan Controls
This alternates the degree or level of audio from that
particular channel that the left and right side of the
main mix should receive.
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12 Helix Board 24 FireWire MKII
34. On Button and Indicator
This turns the channel on, allowing the user to use the
feed from the channel’s inputs to supply the MAIN L/
R, GROUP 1/2, GROUP 3/4, AUX and EFX buses (as
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indicator will be illuminated when turned on.
35. Sig Indicator
This LED indicator shows when the input level reaches
-20 dBu, basically showing when a signal is received
by the corresponding channel.
36. 1-2, 3-4 and L-R Buttons
These handy buttons allow you to decide the audio
path of the corresponding channel. Pushing the “1/2”
or “3/4” buttons allows the signal to be sent to the
Group 1/2 or 3/4 mixes respectively, where the “L-R”
allows it to be sent to the Main L/R mix.
37. Peak Indicator
This LED indicator will illuminate when the channel
hits high peaks, 6 dB before overload occurs. It is best
to adjust the channel level control so as to allow the
PEAK indicator to light up on regular intervals only.
This will ensure a greater dynamic range of audio.
This indicator also doubles as a Solo indicator, when
the SOLO button is engaged.
38. Solo Button
The Solo button is pushed to allow the signal of the
corresponding channel to be sent to the Control Room
/ Phones mixing bus (pre or post fader, depending
on the properties selected by the pre / post button,
located below the solo level control), for use with
either headphones or studio monitors. This button
also allows for easier isolation of individual channel
signals, ensuring setting of the input gain or tracking of
audio by sound engineers is made simpler. The Peak
indicator (above the Solo button) also doubles as a
Solo Indicator, illuminating when the signal reaches
high peaks.
39. Channel Level Control (Fader)
This 60 mm fader will alter the signal level that is sent
from the corresponding channel to the corresponding
mixing buses.
Digital Effect Engine
40. Digital Effect Display
This 2-digital numeric display shows the program
number that is currently applied to your EFX audio
signal. When you rotate the Program control, you can
scroll through different program numbers; however
the display will revert back to the original program if a
new program is not selected within a few seconds. For
a list of available effects, please observe the Digital
Effect Table.
41. Sig and Clip Indicators
Located within the Digital Effect Display are Clip
and Sig LEDs. The Sig LED will light up when any
signal is received by the effect processor, and the
Clip LED will light up shortly before excessive signals
are dynamically clipped. If the Clip LED lights up too
often, it may be advisable to turn down the AUX 3/
EFX master control to ensure the signal level is not
excessive.
42. Program Control
This control is used to scroll through the various
effects. Turning the control clockwise will allow users
to ascend into higher program numbers, and turning
it counter-clockwise will allow users to descend into
lower program numbers. When turning to a new
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program knob down – this will apply the effect. When
a tap-delay effect is selected, pressing this control will
allow users to select the tap-delay time.
By pushing the button several times, the effect
processor interprets the time between last two pushes
and remembers this as the delay time – until the button
is pushed again. This is kept even after the power is
turned off. When the tap delay effect is selected, a
small LED (located between the two digit display) will
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selected intervals.
43. Effect Bypass
Use it to bypass the effects and monitor your audio
before and after the effect is applied. When the effect
engine is bypassed, the 2 small indicators on the
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39
34
35
36
37
38
40 41 42
43

13
Helix Board 24 FireWire MKII
Master Section
44. AUX Return 1 to 4 Controls and Solo Buttons
These controls adjust the signal level of audio fed
through to the stereo AUX Return inputs. The “To AUX
Send 1” and “To AUX Send 2” controls adjust the pre-
fader level of the signal from the AUX Return controls
to the corresponding AUX mixing buses for effect-to-
monitor sends. The AUX 3 control typically adjusts the
signal level of audio fed through to stereo AUX Return
3 inputs, however, if no device is plugged into the AUX
Return 3 inputs, it then acts as the output level control of
the built-in Digital Effect Engine.
45. Main L/R - Group Buttons
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signal sent from the AUX Return 3 mixing buses between
the Main L/R and Group mixing buses. The second
button works when the user selects to send the signal
“To Group”, allowing the signal to be sent to either Group
1-2 or Group 3-4.
46. C-R / PHNS Only Button
The “Control Room / Phones Only” button that is located
below AUX Return Control 4 allows users to send the
AUX Return 4 post-fader signal to the Control Room /
Phones mixing bus for monitoring purposes.
47. Solo Return Button and Indicator
Pushing this buttons allows you to send the signal from
all AUX Returns to solo mixing bus (which is, intern, sent
to the Control Room / Phones mixing bus). When the
Solo is activated, the corresponding LED indicator will
illuminate.
48. AUX Send 1 to 4 Master Controls and Indicator
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and 4 signals (as taken from the AUX level controls 1 to
4 on each channel strip), the audio of which is sent to the
corresponding AUX sends. The AUX 3 control not only
adjusts the output level of the AUX 3/EFX mix that is sent
to the corresponding output, but also the signal sent to
the built-in Effect Processor as well. The Solo buttons
allow you to direct the AUX Send signals to the Control
Room / Phones mixing bus for monitoring purposes.
When any of the AUX solo buttons is activated, the AUX
Solo LED will illuminate.
49. Control Room / Phones Control
This control is used to adjust the audio level of the
Control Room and Phones feeds, for use in the
monitoring and tracking of audio. The signal is then
sent to the Control Room outputs on the rear of the
Helix Board 24 FireWire MKII mixer, as well as the
Phones jack on the face of the mixer.
50. Pre / Post Button and Solo Indicator
This button alternates the solo source signals between
those of post-fader and pre-fader feeds, to be sent
to the Solo and Control Room / Phones mixing bus.
When the Solo indicator, located beside the main
level meter, is illuminated, it means one or more Solo
buttons has been pushed; therefore the Main Level
meter will display properties of the Solo signal, which
is helpful in the setting of channel properties. If Solo
indicator illuminates green, this means the Solo feed
is a pre-fader signal; if the solo indicator illuminates
red, the feed is post-fader.
51. Control Room Source Buttons
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Control Room control, allow users to select the various
possible sources for the Control Room and Phones
outputs. By simply pushing one of these, users have
the ability to monitor the 2T return, Group 1-2, Group
3-4, Main L-R and returned FireWire signals, either
together or individually. There is also a “Control Room
/ Phones only” button located beneath the Aux Return
4 control, that, when pushed, sends the AUX Return 4
signal to the Phones / Control Room mixing bus.
48 46
47
44
45
Priority Signal
High From Solo
Low Selected Source(s):
Main L-R / Group 1-2 / Group 3-4 / 2T
Return / Aux Return 4 / FireWire Return
50
49
51

14 Helix Board 24 FireWire MKII
52. 2T Return Control and To Main Button
Turning the 2T Return level control adjusts the signal
level of the feed from the 2T Return inputs. The “ to
Main” button that accompanies this control allows
users to send the 2T return signal to the Main L-R
mixing bus. When this is done, the Main L-R mix signal
is not sent to the Rec Out, as to avoid producing a
feedback loop when recorded signals are fed back
into the 2T return.
53. FireWire Source and “Assign To” Buttons
Pushing the FireWire button in allows users to send
the signal received through the FireWire interface to
the Main L-R mix and/or AUX 1 mix, as selected by
the corresponding button.
54. FireWire Selector Switch
This switch determines which of the Helix Board’s
signals will be used for the 17th and 18th channels
sent through the FireWire interface to the computer.
Users can choose to send the stereo signal from the
Main L/R, Group 1/2 or AUX
3/4 mix and utilize the signal
on their computer through
their DAW software.
55. FireWire Trim Control
This trim control can be used to adjust the level of
the outgoing FireWire signal for Channels 17 and
18 (which will be received by the computer). If the
input signal received by your computer is noticeably
excessive, using this control could help to attenuate
the signal to an acceptable degree.
56. +48V Indicator
This indicator will illuminate when the master Phantom
Power switch is activated.
57. Power Indicator
The Power Indicator will light up when the power of
the mixer is on.
58. Level Meter
This dual 12 segment level meter gives an accurate
indication of when audio reach certain levels. The
0 dB indicator illuminates is approximately equal to
an output level of +4 dBu (balanced), and the PEAK
indicator illuminates about 1.5 dB before the signal is
dynamically clipped. It is advised that users set the
various level controls so that the level sits steadily
around 0 dB to make full use of audio, while still
maintaining fantastic clarity.
If any Solo buttons are activated on channels 1
through 16, or in the master section, the Level Meter
will display the Solo signal’s properties. However, if no
solo buttons are activated, the Control Room / Phones
selected sources (Main L-R, Group 1-2, Group 3-4,
2T Return, Aux Return 4 and FireWire Return) signal
properties are displayed by the Level Meter. In this
case, the Level meter will display the sum of the
selected signals.
52 56
57
58
53
55
54

15
Helix Board 24 FireWire MKII
59. Group 1 to 4 Controls
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1 to 4 audio feeds, sent to the corresponding Group
outputs on the rear of the Helix Board 24 FireWire to
feed external devices such as effect processors, and,
quite commonly, multi-track recorders. These faders
can be fed a signal from the various input channels
(as well as the AUX Return 3) depending on your
selections. When pushed all the way up, these faders
provide 10 dB of gain to the signal, and, when set all
the way down, effectively mute the signal.
The Group Controls also feature individual left and
right buttons that allow users to send the various
Group signals to the Main Left and Right mix. This can
be handy when wanting to combine the signals from
different input channels and control their input levels
simultaneously, then send them to the Main audio mix.
A good example of when this can be done is when
multiple inputs are used for drums; users can combine
these inputs together to be controlled much simpler by
a single fader.
60. Main L/R Fader
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and Right audio feeds, sent to the Main L and R
outputs. When pushed all the way up, the Main L/R
fader provides 10 dB of gain to the signal, and when
set all the way down, the signal is effectively muted.
60
59
FireWire Pre / Post Switches
On the bottom of the Helix Board 24 FireWire MKII,
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By removing this screw and sliding the cover to the
left, the pre/post switches for every input channel
are accessible. Flicking one of these switches to the
left will ensure the signal sent through the FireWire
interface from that particular channel is affected by the
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the right, the signal will be unaffected by these controls.
It is advised that users set the pre/post settings for
each input channel before plugging the unit into an AC
power source. Replace the cover and screw before
plugging the mixer back in and turning it on.
Underneath the Mixer

16 Helix Board 24 FireWire MKII
FireWire Interface
System Requirements
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computer does not meet these requirements, you will experience lagging of audio and possible freezing of your
computer when attempting to operate the mixer.
Windows
• Microsoft® Windows® XP SP1 and SP2
• Available FireWire port (suggested FireWire Interface: ADS Pyro 64 FireWire card with TI chip)
• Intel Pentium® 4 processor or equivalent AMD Athlon processor
• Motherboard with Intel or VIA chipset
• 5400 RPM or faster hard disk drive (7200 RPM or faster with 8 MB cache recommended)
• 256 MB or more of RAM (512 MB recommended)
Macintosh
• OS X 10.3.5 or later with native FireWire support
• G4 or newer processor
• 256 MB or more of RAM
Driver Installation
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ers from the included CD (ASIO and WDM drivers). It is important that users read all instructions carefully before
continuing on to the each step of installation, as users will be required to unplug and plug in their FireWire device.
This is not necessary for Mac users.
Windows XP (with Service Pack 1 or 2)
1. It is recommended that you quit all applications before starting the installation process.
2. Ensure the Helix Board FireWire is not yet connected to your Computer’s FireWire input.
3. Insert the installation CD included with your Helix Board FireWire mixer into the CD-ROM drive of your computer.
If the CD does not automatically start the installation process within a few moments, then navigate to “My Com-
puter” Jyour CD-ROM drive J“Drivers and Control Panel” Jdouble-click “setup.exe” to begin the installation
manually. The Helix Board FireWire Control Panel software also will be installed at this time.
4. Follow the installation instructions.
Make sure no other programs are running on your PC and that the
Helix Board 24 FireWire MKII is not connected to your PC, then click “Next”.

17
Helix Board 24 FireWire MKII
Read and accept the terms of the License Agreement and click “Yes” to continue.
Either select a new destination for the installation, or else click “Next” to accept the default directory.
Click “Next” to begin the installation.

18 Helix Board 24 FireWire MKII
Connect the Helix Board 24 FireWire MKII to the Computer and turn the power on.
If a message is displayed indicating that the software has not passed Windows Logo test,
click “Continue Anyway”.
After installation is complete, users are free to use the device as they wish.

19
Helix Board 24 FireWire MKII
Macintosh OS X (10.3.5 or later)
The Helix Board 24 FireWire MKII works with the primary audio drivers of Macintosh OS X 10.3.5 and later. First
verify that you are running Macintosh OS X 10.3.5 or above, then connect the Helix Board 24 FireWire MKII to a
FireWire port to the computer. To ensure your Helix Board 24 FireWire MKII is working, enter the Utilities folder and
double-click the Audio MIDI Setup icon.
Enter the Audio Device’s section. From the “Properties for” pull-down tab,
select Helix Board 24 FireWire MKII.
At the bottom of the window, users can edit the setup of the Helix Board 24 FireWire MKII.
Properties such as sampling rate and clock source can be altered.
Users may also opt to make the Helix Board 24 FireWire MKII their default input and/or output device.
Mac users are able to use GarageBand Digital Audio Workstation Software,
in conjunction with the Helix Board 24 FireWire MKII.

20 Helix Board 24 FireWire MKII
Channel Assignment
When using a Digital Audio Workstation on a PC, and
within the included Phonic Helix Board 24 FireWire
MKII control panel software, the following names have
been attributed to the input channels of the FireWire
mixer. They can be altered through the control panel
software included with the mixer.
To alter an input channel’s name on your computer,
open the Helix Board 24 FireWire MKII control panel
software. On the left hand side of the control panel,
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put Channels”, the main window will display the titles
input channels. You can then highlight the channel
names and press the “Edit Channel Name” button
on the bottom of the control window. A new window
will appear that will allow users to adjust the channel
name.
If you would like to use the Helix Board 24 FireWire
MKII as your default audio output device on you PC,
simply go into the Windows control panel, and select
“Sound and Audio Devices”. Select the Audio tab, and
use the pull-down menu to select the Helix Board 24
FireWire MKII from the list of available output devices.
The Helix Board 24 FireWire MKII can also be select-
ed as the default output device for individual programs
by editing said programs’ settings / options.
Cubase LE
Cubase LE is a fairly powerful program provided
along with the Helix Board 24 FireWire MKII mixer
that allows users to record, edit, delete, and alter their
tracks. Please note that only 4 tracks can be recorded
at once with the version of Cubase included, and us-
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if they choose to record more tracks.
Installation
Insert the Cubase LE installation CD that came with
your mixer into the CD drive of your computer. Run
the installer. The serial number will be automatically
entered in when installing.
Setup
After successfully completing the installation process,
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ciently with the Helix Board 24 FireWire MKII mixer.
1. Open the Cubase LE program.
2. Go to the ‘Devices’ pull-down menu and select ‘De-
vice Setup’. On the left, select ‘VST Multitrack’.
3. From the ASIO Driver drop-down list select the
“Phonic ASIO Driver”. A pop-up box will ask you if
you want to switch the ASIO driver. Click ‘Switch’.
This completes the basic installation and setup.
4. Activating audio tracks received from the Helix
Board mixer.
a. Go to the “devices” pull-down menu and select
‘VST Inputs’. This will display the various inputs
(“Phonic HB 24 MKII Ch 1”, “Phonic HB 24 MKII
Ch 2”, etc.)
b. Activate 8 of these channels by clicking the
“Active” button located next to each channel
name. Please note, only 8 input channels can
be activated at any one time. This is a limitation
of Cubase LE, and if more input channels are
needed, we suggest upgrading to a higher ver-
sion of Cubase, or use other DAW software.
5. For further instructions on the operation of Cubase,
please consult the user manual by pressing F1
while the program is open.
If you wish to reset the Helix Board 24 FireWire MKII
ASIO driver, simply go to the ‘devices’ pull-down menu
and select ‘device setup’. Simply click “reset” and se-
lect the “Phonic ASIO Driver”. Click ‘ok’ to continue
and the Helix Board 24 FireWire MKII should once
again become functional.
FireWire Input Channel Name Mixer Channel
Phonic HB 24 MKII CH 1 Channel 1
Phonic HB 24 MKII CH 2 Channel 2
Phonic HB 24 MKII CH 3 Channel 3
Phonic HB 24 MKII CH 4 Channel 4
Phonic HB 24 MKII CH 5 Channel 5
Phonic HB 24 MKII CH 6 Channel 6
Phonic HB 24 MKII CH 7 Channel 7
Phonic HB 24 MKII CH 8 Channel 8
Phonic HB 24 MKII CH 9 Channel 9
Phonic HB 24 MKII CH 10 Channel 10
Phonic HB 24 MKII CH 11 Channel 11
Phonic HB 24 MKII CH 12 Channel 12
Phonic HB 24 MKII CH 13 Channel 13
Phonic HB 24 MKII CH 14 Channel 14
Phonic HB 24 MKII CH 15 Channel 15
Phonic HB 24 MKII CH 16 Channel 16
Phonic HB 24 MKII CH 17 Channel 17
Phonic HB 24 MKII CH 18 Channel 18
Phonic HB 24 MKII Main L XVHUGH¿QDEOH
Phonic HB 24 MKII Main R XVHUGH¿QDEOH