6
True to the Music
Radial Engineering J33 User Guide
MAKING CONNECTIONS
Using the Radial J33 is easy. Before connecting, start by making
sure all volume levels are set to zero and the audio system is
turned off. This will avoid any loud pops in your sound system
that could cause system damage.
Begin by connecting the turntable outputs to the J33 using the
RCA connectors and securing the ground lead from the turntable
to the ground lug on the J33.
If you are planning to connect the J33 without a mixing console
connected to the XLR outputs, you will need to use the external
15v DC power supply. If you plan to connect the J33 using the
XLR outputs to a mixing console, it will likely be equipped with
48v DC phantom power to supply the J33. Performance is identi-
cal with either form of power supply and the J33 will automati-
cally select the power source depending on how you have it set
up. As soon as you connect the J33’s 15v DC power supply or
turn on the phantom power, the J33’s front panel LED indicators
will light up to indicate power is present.
Make the connections from the J33 to whichever piece of gear
you would like. The unbalanced -10dB outputs are commonly
known as consumer line-level outputs. These will drive inputs
found on hi-fi equipment and the unbalanced line-level inputs
found on mixing consoles. The balanced XLR outputs on the
J33's rear panel are mic-level so that they will match up with
other direct boxes and microphones, thus enabling the J33 to
be used along with microphones in snake systems, mic splitters
and through console mic preamps.
You can use any or all the output connectors at once, enabling
you to, for instance, connect your turntable to the J33, the -10dB
RCA line-level outs to a DJ mixer and the balanced XLR outs to
a PA system, all at the same time. Depending on how the equip-
ment is connected to the AC mains, there can be a potential for
ground loop hum when using both the balanced and unbalanced
outputs at the same time. If a ground loop hum develops, the
solution is to lift the ground at the PA mixer and use the J33’s
included power supply.
Once your connections are made, turn on the sound system.
Begin at low volume to make sure the sound system is working
properly, get your favorite album and listen. The sound should
be clear. If you hear any hum or buzz, check the ground wire,
as this is the usual culprit. It should be firmly held by the J33’s
ground lug. If you are driving your system at high volume levels
and begin to hear low frequency resonance, try depressing the
rumble filter. This will usually tame low frequency PA system
feedback.
You are now ready to spin away! Have fun!
