Radial engineering Lx-3 User manual

Line SpLitter

jenSen tranSformer equipped

Radial Engineering Ltd.

1588 Kebet Way, Port Coquitlam BC V3C 5M5

Tel: 604-942-1001 • Fax: 604-942-1010 • Email: [email protected]

uSer guide

Radial Engineering Ltd. LX-3™ Line Splitter User Guide

radiaL LX-3 paSSive Line SpLitter

uSer guide

Introduction....................................................................................... 1

Features ........................................................................................... 2

Overview........................................................................................... 3

Making Connections......................................................................... 4

Using the Pad................................................................................... 4

Using the Ground Lift........................................................................ 5

Optional Mounting Accessories ........................................................ 6

FAQ .................................................................................................. 7

Specications ................................................................................... 8

Block Diagram .................................................................................. 9

Radial Limited Warranty ...................................................Back Cover

Thank you for purchasing the Radial LX-3™ line-level audio splitter. We are condent that you will nd that it exceeds all expec-

tations in terms of sound quality and reliability.

Before you begin using the LX-3, please take a few minutes to read this short manual and familiarize yourself with the various

connections and features the LX-3 offers. For additional information, please visit the radial website, where we post frequently

asked questions and updates that may answer any questions you have. If you still nd yourself in need of more information, feel

free to send us an email at [email protected] and we will do our best to respond in short order.

The LX-3 is a high performance splitter that will provide you with years of trouble-free operation while offering the best possible

audio quality. Enjoy!

Radial Engineering Ltd. LX-3™ Line Splitter User Guide

FEATURES

1. INPUT PAD: Reduces the input by -12dB to allow for

extra-hot line-level signals to be connected.

2. XLR/TRS INPUT: Combination XLR or ¼” input.

3. THRU GROUND LIFT: Disconnects pin-1 ground at the

XLR output.

4. DIRECT THRU OUTPUT: Direct output to connect to

recording or monitor systems.

5. ISO OUTPUT 1&2: Transformer isolated outputs

eliminates hum & buzz caused by ground loops.

6. BOOK END DESIGN: Creates a protective zone around

the jacks and switches.

7. ISO GROUND LIFTS: Disconnects pin-1 ground at the

XLR outputs.

8. NO SLIP PAD: Provides electrical & mechanical isolation

and keeps the unit from sliding around.

1 2

6 7 9

3 4

Radial Engineering Ltd. LX-3™ Line Splitter User Guide

OVERVIEW

The LX-3 is a simple passive device, designed to take a mono line-level audio signal and split it to three separate destinations

without introducing noise or degrading the audio quality. This can be used in a wide range of applications, from splitting the

output of a mic preamp to three different compressors or effects units, to splitting the output of a console to multiple recording

devices. Inside the LX-3, the signal is divided three ways, between the DIRECT THRU, ISOLATED-1 and ISOLATED-2 XLR

outputs. The two isolated outputs pass through a premium Jensen™ transformer, which blocks DC voltage and prevents buzz

and hum from ground loops. All three of the outputs feature individual ground lift switches, which help further reduce ground

loop noise, and a -12dB input PAD helps tame extra hot inputs and prevent overloading.

ISOLATED

MIXER

ISOLATED

DIRECT

Radial Engineering Ltd. LX-3™ Line Splitter User Guide

MAKING CONNECTIONS

Before making connections, ensure that your sound system is turned off and all volume controls are turned down. This prevents

any plug-in transients from damaging speakers or other sensitive components. The LX-3 is completely passive, so it doesn’t

require any power to operate.

The LX-3 has a combination XLR/TRS input connector, which is wired with the AES standard pin-1 ground, pin-2 hot (+), pin-3

cold (-). You can connect balanced or unbalanced inputs to the LX-3. The isolated outputs will always be balanced signals, while

the direct output can be balanced or unbalanced depending on the input source.

THE INPUT PAD

Should you have a particularly hot input signal that you are sending to the LX-3, you can engage a -12dB pad to knock down

the signal and prevent distortion. This is done using the PAD switch, and will affect the output of the direct output LX-3, as well

as both isolated XLR outputs. Should you wish to reduce the level at the isolated outputs, but keep the direct output at the level

of the original signal, there is an internal jumper that you can adjust to accomplish this.

To change the operation of the PAD switch, so it

doesn’t affect the direct output, follow these steps:

1. Use a hex key to remove the four screws that

secure the cover of the LX-3.

2. Slide the cover off the LX-3, and locate the in-

ternal jumper as indicated on the photo below.

3. Move the jumper over to connect pins 2 and 3,

this will allow the thru output to bypass the PAD.

Radial Engineering Ltd. LX-3™ Line Splitter User Guide

USING THE GROUND LIFT

When connecting two or more powered devices, you may encounter hum and buzz caused by ground loops. The isolated

outputs on the LX-3 have a Jensen transformer in their signal path, which blocks DC voltage and breaks the ground loop. How-

ever, the direct output is connected straight through to the input of the LX-3, and you may need to engage the ground lift on this

output to disconnect the audio ground and help remove buzz and hum on this output. Ground lift switches are also present on

the isolated outputs to provide further abatement of ground loop noise.

The image above shows an audio source and a destination with a common electrical ground. As the audio also has a ground, these

combine to create a ground loop. The transformer and ground lift work together to eliminate the ground loop and potential noise.

60Hz

Hum

GROUND LOOP HUM

TRANSFORMER

BREAKS THE LOOP

ELECTRICAL GROUND PATH

EMI & RADIO NOISE

SOURCE RECEIVE

Radial Engineering Ltd. LX-3™ Line Splitter User Guide

J-CLAMP

OPTIONAL RACK MOUNTING KITS

The optional J-RAK™ rackmount adapters allow four or eight LX-3s to be securely housed in a standard 19” equipment rack.

The J-RAK ts any standard-sized Radial DI or splitter, allowing you to mix and match as needed. Both J-RAK models are built

of 14-gauge steel with a baked enamel nish.

Each direct box can be front or rear mounted allowing the system designer to have the XLR’s on the front of the rack or rear,

depending on the application.

The optional J-CLAMP™ can mount a single LX-3 inside a

road case, under a table, or on virtually any surface. Con-

structed from 14-gauge steel with a baked enamel nish.

J-Rak 8 J-Rak 4

Radial Engineering Ltd. LX-3™ Line Splitter User Guide

FAQ

Can I use the LX-3 with a microphone signal?

No, the LX-3 is designed for line-level signals, and will not provide optimal performance with a mic-level input. If you need to split

the output of a microphone, the Radial JS2™ and JS3™ mic splitters are designed for this purpose.

Will the 48V from phantom power hurt the LX-3?

No, phantom power will not harm the LX-3. The transformer will block 48V at the isolated outputs, but the direct output will pass

phantom power back through the input of the LX-3.

Can I use the LX-3 with unbalanced signals?

Absolutely. The LX-3 will automatically convert the signal to balanced audio at the isolated outputs. The direct output will mirror

the input, and it will be unbalanced if the input is unbalanced.

Do I need power to drive the LX-3?

No, the LX-3 is completely passive, with no need for power.

Will the LX-3 t in a J-Rak?

Yes, the LX-3 can be mounted in the J-Rak 4 and the J-Rak 8, or secured to a desktop or road case using the J-Clamp.

What is the maximum input level of the LX-3?

The LX-3 can handle +20dBu without engaging the input pad, and a huge +32dBu with the pad engaged.

Can I use the LX-3 to split one signal to feed multiple powered speakers?

Yes, you can. This allows you to send a mono output from a mixing board to two or three speakers, for example.

Can I use the LX-3 to split the output of my guitar or keyboard?

Yes, although the StageBug SB-6™ might be a better option as it has ¼” connectors.

Radial Engineering Ltd. LX-3™ Line Splitter User Guide

SPECIFICATIONS

Audio Circuit Type: ....................................................................................................................Passive, transformer based

Frequency Response: ..................................................................................................................... 20Hz - 20kHz +/-0.5dB

Gain: ........................................................................................................................................................................-1.5dBu

Noise Floor: .............................................................................................................................................................-120dBu

Maximum Input:........................................................................................................................................................ +20dBu

Dynamic Range:....................................................................................................................................................... 140dBu

Total Harmonic Distortion: .........................................................................................................................<0.001% @ 1kHz

Phase Deviation: ............................................................................................................................................ +0.6° @ 20Hz

Common Mode Rejection:....................................................................................................105dB @ 60Hz, 70dB @ 3kHz

Input Impedance:..........................................................................................................................................................712Ω

Output Impedance:....................................................................................................................................................... 112Ω

Transformer: ..................................................................................................................................... Jensen JT-123-FLPCH

Input Pad: ....................................................................................................................................................................-12dB

Ground Lifts:...................................................................................................................... Disconnects pin-1 at XLR output

XLR Conguration: ....................................................................................................................... AES standard (pin-2 hot)

Finish:.................................................................................................................................................. Durable powder coat

Size:................................................................................................................................ 84 x 127 x 48mm (3.3” x 5.0” x 2”)

Weight: ......................................................................................................................................................0.70 kg (1.55 lbs)

Warranty: .................................................................................................................................... Radial 3-year, transferable