Solidyne D 816 User manual

D·816
3 de Febrero 3254 (PC 1429)
Buenos Aires - Argentina
Phone: [phone]
e-mail: info solidynepro.com
Fax: [phone]
Web site: www.SolidynePRO.com
USB INPUTS/OUTPUTS
DIRECT HARD DISK RECORDING
ON-AIR compact console
User’s manual
Last revision: March 2012

Page 2 D·816 broadcast console SOLID NE

Table of contents-
CHAPTER 1
Overview ..................................................5
1.1 Shipping list.....................................................5
1.2 Features...........................................................5
1.2.1 Input channels.....................................................5
1.2.2 Monitoring...........................................................5
1.3.3 Outputs................................................................6
1.3.4 Start devices........................................................6
1.3.5 ETM - VCA............................................................6
CHAPTER 2
Installation and wiring ............................7
2.1 On installation.................................................7
2.1.1 Parasitic signals..................................................7
2.2 REAR PANEL – connecting............................8
2.2.1 Power Supply......................................................8
2.2.2 Input channels.....................................................8
2.2.2.1 LINE inputs................................................8
2.2.2.2 USB DIGITAL INPUTS..............................8
2.2.2.3 MICROPHONE INPUTS...........................9
2.2.3 Audio outputs......................................................9
2.2.3.1 PROGRAM AND RECORDING ...............9
2.2.3.2 USB OUTPUTS.......................................10
2.2.4 Monitoring outputs...........................................10
2.2.4.1 HEADPHONES.......................................10
2.2.6 Telephonic Hybrid.............................................10
2.2.6.1 CONNECTING STANDARD LINES........10
2.2.6.2 CONNECTING A CELL PHONE.............11
Connection to a computer...................................11
2.2.7 Start Devices.....................................................12
2.2.8 Generals tips.....................................................12
2.2.9 Connection diagram ........................................13
2.2.10 Recommended grounding for a FM station..14
CHAPTER 3
Using the console .................................15
3.1 Overview........................................................15
3.1.1 Quick checking.................................................15
3.2Using the hybrid channel..............................16
3.2.1 Operation..........................................................16
3.2.1.1 Use with a CELL PHONE........................16
3.2.2 Return to phone line.........................................17
3.2.3 Rejection setup (Null).......................................17
3.2.4 Managing conferences.....................................17
3.2.5 Vox-IP communications (Skype).....................17
3.2.5.1 Connection via Skype, or similar, with a re-
mote journalist................................................18
3.2.5.2 Make a conference between Skype (or si-
milar) fixed lines and cell phone. ...................18
3.3 Monitor section.............................................19
3.3.1 Using monitors and headphones....................19
3.3.2 Previous listening (CUE)..................................19
3.3.3 Talk-back...........................................................20
3.4 Microphone channels...................................21
3.4.1 Features.............................................................22
3.4.2 Processing.........................................................22
3.5 Line channels................................................23
3.6 Recording programs.....................................23
3.6.1 Direct to Hard Disc recording..........................23
3.6.2 Recording calls.................................................24
CHAPTER 4
On maintenance ....................................25
4.1 How to get a long life of the console.................25
4.2 Preventive Maintenance......................................25
4.3 Spare parts...........................................................25
4.4 Service Manual.....................................................25
CHAPTER 5
Specifications ans testing ....................27
5.1 Testings ........................................................27
5.2 Technical specifications ..............................29
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CHAPTER 1
-Overview-
1.1 Shipping list
When unpacking the unit; check the contents to ve-
rify that the console has not received blows during
the shipment. Inside the packaging you receive the
following elements:
• 1 power supply.
• T is user’s manual
• 1 guaranty agreement
• Wiring kit (optional). If you did not acquire t e wiring
kit, you will receive t e corresponding DIN connectors.
• 1 tubular connector (2,5 mm) for Tally Lig t
• 4 self-ad esive rubber pads.
The console has a folding vu-meters turret. Into the
packing the turret comes refuted backwards. After
unpacking the console, fits with carefully the position
of the turret for an optimal visualization. Usually it is
not necessary, but if you need to fit the screws of the
turret, you will have to use a hexagonal ALEM 5/32”.
1.2 Features
D-816 console is a compact, solid and elegant unit;
with a great flexibility for interconnection. It includes
USB digital I/O which brings digital link with the com-
puter; avoiding the use of soundcards in the PC.
D-816 has eight professional 100mm Conductive Ce-
ramic faders of with ETM-VCA control that offer a life
utility of one million operations. It is the best solution
for small and medium radios; and for auxiliary recor-
ding studies in great stations.
1.2.1 Input channels
There are 3 microphone channels with phantom
power of 48V, switched from the front panel. Mic
channels have a processing stage that includes 4
bands equalizer and automatic dynamic range
compressor. Each microphone channel can be sent
individually to the air signal (PGM) or assigned to the
processing stage. MIC-3 channel can be switched to
AUX stereo line input.
Four LINE channels allow connecting up to 8 sour-
ces. Channels 4 and 5 manages balanced analogical
inputs whereas channels 6 and 7 are digital, with di-
rect connection to the computer via USB ports. Addi-
tionally all channels have one analog auxiliary input.
All the channels count on a gain control, that take ef-
fects on the selected input (main or auxiliary).
Chanel # 8 “Telephone Hybrid” manages two land te-
lephone lines (2 wires) and one cellular phone input
(4 wires). Cell phone is connected using the “free
hands” connector. The three phones can be in confe-
rence. The use is very simple, since many functions
are automated. Additionally, the console has send
and return connector for external hybrids.
1.2.2 Monitoring
The monitoring section distributes the signals to the
loudspeakers and headphones of the study and the
control room.
Studio section has a unique level knob for loudspe-
akers and headphones; and the assignment swit-
ches that allow select between ON-AIR signal (exter-
nal tuner), console output (PGM) or recording output
(REC). Usually the console level is adjusted for a
comfortable headphone level and then the active
speakers are adjusted for desired level.
Control Room monitoring has independent control
for headphones and loudspeakers volume. You can
choose between AIR (external tuner), PGM and
REC.
CUE monitor The console has a built-in loudspeaker
for cueing, with its own control level. CUE is an inter-
nal send that allows listening to the audio signal pre-
vious to the fader. The cue signal also is sent to the
Control Room headphones.
Additionally, monitoring section contains the Talk-
back circuit; that operates as well in combination with
loudspeaker CUE to engage in a private dialog from
the hybrid with a telephone call without disturbing the
on-air signal.
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1.3.3 Outputs
The D-816 console has two main outputs. Line, mi-
crophone and hybrid channels have two stereo
sends to the output stage, they are called: PGM (pro-
gram) and REC (recording).
In addition it has two USB digital outputs that appe-
ar in the computer as external sound recording devi-
ces (USB recording devices) and sends the program
(channel 6) and REC (channel 7) signals.
Summarizing, the outputs are as follows:
•PGM, T e PROGRAM output is used t e
send t e signal to t e air.
•REC, used to recordings (and allows to lis-
ten a c annel in t e main monitors wit out
send it to t e air).
•REC USB, recording output is also available
via USB (only if c annel Digital USB-7 is
connected).
•PGM USB (W ic appears in t e PC as
“USB recording device #1”). It can be used
as source of signal to WEB casting.
D-816 has send & return connections for external
hybrid. The audio from the external hybrid enters
trough the “hybrid channel” and operates just as the
built-in hybrids; which continue being operative. Ple-
ase note that land lines of internal & external hybrids
will work in conference.
The Tally output allows the direct connection of ON-
AIR LED’s lights. Tally activates when opening the
channels MIC-1 and/or MIC-2 (channel MIC/3 does
not activate the tally; since it can operate as line or
microphone). The LOAD DOES NOT HAVE TO EX-
CEED the 120 mA (two Solidyne AIR lights).
If your radio uses the old incandescent light bulbs, a
12 V relay must be connected.
1.3.4 Start devices
This D816 console allows starting remote devices
when some faders are opened (MIC-1; MIC-2; LINE
5 and LINE 6)
It allows to command the automation software com-
puter, digital audio processors like Solidyne 462dsp
& 562dsp or CD/DAT/ Minidisc players, Satellites,
etc., provided with remote control.
1.3.5 ETM - VCA
Using the technique of control by ETM-VCA (Electro-
metric Voltage Controlled Amplifier) the faders DO
NOT manage audio signals. The variation of the le-
vel is made by means of amplifiers of low noise and
great stability. The main faders only handle control
signals that modify the gain of the electronic amplifi-
ers. For more information please visit our WEB site.
The main advantages of this technology are:
•Eliminates t e noisy signals due to dirty
faders.
•Eliminates t e maintenance and improves
t e life of faders.
•Gives a perfect stereo tracking (less t an
0,1 dB error) between Left and Rig t c an-
nels.
•Allows using Conductive Ceramic faders
of one million guaranteed operations
(about 15 years of use).
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CHAPTER 2
-Installation and wiring-
2.1 On installation
Installation of Solidyne audio console doesn’t pre-
sent particular problems. However, keep in mind the
basic rules for all professional audio installations.
The inputs and outputs of the D-816 series incorpo-
rate DIN-5 multi-pin connectors for stereo balanced
inputs (provided with the console). You can acquire
the Solidyne wiring kit (MNG816), which incorporates
all the cables and connectors needed for installing
D816.
For console grounding use the rear side GND bronze
tip with a 2mm cable to a good buried cooper bar.
2.1.1 Parasitic signals
All unwanted signals that appear in audio lines usu-
ally consider parasitic signals. A common type are
denominated umming, low frequency signals (multi-
ples of 50/60 Hertz) caused by the interaction of
electromagnetic fields coming from the AC line.
When the interference source is a magnetic field (ge-
nerally originated in a supply transformer) the resul-
tant interference will be denominated electromagne-
tic umming. When the interference is due to such
electric potentials as cables that take supply tensi-
ons, that are elevated in comparison with the audio
signals present in the circuit, you will be in presence
of electrostatic umming. The distinction is not me-
rely academic, because the resolution of a problem
supposes the knowledge of the noise type to apply
the correct solution.
Examples: To minimize t e reception of electromagnetic
umming in t e wires, remember t e following rule: "THE
AREA AMONG TWO AUDIO WIRES WILL BE MINIMUM."
It implies t at t e cables will be tied very close, like t e
s ielded twisted pair audio cables. T ey s ould pass far
away from any transformer or devices t at manage ig -
intensity currents. Is important to remember t at a wire
can be good s ielded, but if is conductors don’t complete
t e conditions of minimum area it will be susceptible to
take magnetic umming.
Other parasitic signals are: AC HUM, RADIO FRE-
QUENCY and CROSSTALK. As hum noises like the
radio frequency are originated by electromagnetic fi-
elds of high frequency; the first ones are originated
by disturbances due to the connection and discon-
nection of equipment’s to the AC line, the seconds
ones are generated by communications transmitters
or industrial equipment. If these signals penetrate
into audio lines, with sufficient intensity, can surpass
the action of the special protection filters, and to rea-
ch some sensible part of the input stages. In that
case, the interfering signals can be demodulated and
already turned audio signal, and will be amplified by
the rest of the system. It is fundamental, therefore, to
maintain the interference within reduced margins. It
is obtained avoiding very long audio lines, with aerial
sections or that pass near of transformers or RF
transmitters. For protection against very high fre-
quencies is advisable to use double shielded cables,
guarantied by the manufacturer.
CROSSTALK is the reception of signals coming from
other lines of audio. This, like all unwanted noise, it
can be supposed controlled when its level is below
the level of the system residual noise. Then, all con-
siderations mentioned for the case of buzz are valid.
2.1.2 RF interference (Hum)
D-816 consoles have numerous internal protections
against RF fields, for the AM and FM broadcasting
band. When the transmission station is installed cor-
rectly, there will be no interference problems, still
with FM equipment of 50 KW installed in the terrace
of the radio station. Nevertheless, when the antenna
is badly positioned with respect to the Studio or has
severe SWR problems, then it does not have the mi-
nimum value of field intensity, downward. Or maybe
there is a faulty ground connection, then, strong
standing waves will appear on the cables of the Stu-
dio that can induce high electrical currents inside the
audio console.
Symptoms: If the interference takes place at the
A.M. band, the sound transmitted by the A.M. radio
will be listened in the loudspeakers on background
(or at buses PGM, REC). In case of FM transmissi-
ons, the interference inside the console demodulates
the A.M component of the FM carrier; (usually hum
from power supply) causing background humming,
because in many transmitters of FM, the final output
stage is not powered with stabilized tension. There-
fore, if console D816 presents humming, please
make a test shutting down the transmitter a few se-
conds to check if the problem disappears. Someti-
mes, an FM transmitter with the output stage badly
SOLID NE D·816 broadcast console Page 7

calibrated also produce interference in which you
can hear the transmitted audio (due to the misalign-
ment a part of the FM modulation is translated to AM
modulation).
Solution: D-816 consoles have internal filters
against RF interference. Therefore, if interference’s
appears, normally is caused by installation problems
on the transmission station that generate elevated
currents in the wiring of audio on the Studies, due to
the standing waves. These currents circulates inside
the cabinet of the console, and interferes to the cir-
cuits when overpass the barriers that impose to this
currents the built-in RF filters. The solution, then,
must be external to the console.
The solution is to acquire ferrite
O-rings of 60 mm diameter, to
allow passing the cables and
connectors. They will be used in
each connector, of input and outputs. The total set of
cables that goes to each connector, will have to be
twisted around the ring.
2.2 REAR PANEL – connecting
2.2.1 Power Supply
At the left side of the rear panel you will find the con-
nector for the power supply. The switching power
supply (provided with the console) works with any
AC network (90-240 V) and tolerate zones with great
variations of tension. Gives regulated 28 VCC.
P L E A S E DO N T R E P L A C E T H E O R I G I N AL
P O W E R S U P P LY .
The console does not have On/Off switch; reason
why it remains fed while the power supply is connec-
ted.
The grounding made through a bronze tip located in
the rear panel that provides the ground connection to
the chassis. Use cable of 2mm to a good buried coo-
per bar.
2.2.2 Input channels
On the rear panel are located all the inputs and out-
puts connectors.
Take in mind that good connections offer safe and free
of faults operation. By this reason we recommend you:
take it the time necessary to make the connections care-
fully and use always material of first quality.
2.2.2.1 LINE inputs
Each line channel has two stereo inputs, selected
from the frontal panel. The ‘BAL-LINE' inputs are
symmetrical balanced. These called “LINE” are un-
balanced inputs.
To connect an equipment with balanced output you
will need a cable from DIN-5 to two CANNON (XLR)
or stereo Plug’s (TRS ¼”) according to corresponds.
The pin distribution of DIN-5 and XLR are described
next. Remember that you need to connect TWO XLR
to the DIN (balanced left and balanced right).
DIN 5 (stereo bal.) FEMALE XLR
1 AUDIO (-) RIGHT 1GND (shield)
2 GND (shield) 2AUDIO (+)
3 AUDIO (-) LEFT 3AUDIO (-)
4 AUDIO (+) RIGHT
5 AUDIO (+) LEFT
Inputs called ‘LINE' are unbalanced. They use connec-
tors type “RCA”. Equipment with outputs of -10 dBV
10 KOhms can be connected (home type or semi-pro).
The GAIN control is common for both inputs; that is to
say, that operates on the selected inputs.
2.2.2.2 USB DIGITAL INPUTS
Digital channels 6 and 7 are for direct connection to
the computer using USB ports.
Standard cables USB A/B are used. Ports 1.1 or 2.0
are supported. Place the CPU so next to the console
as it will be possible, in order to use cables of 2 to 3
meters of length. If it were necessary, can be used
USB extension cables; but it is recommended not to
exceed 4 meters.
The channels must be connected to a computer run-
ning Windows© XP; starting by channel 6. When
only one channel is used; channel 6 must be
always used. When connecting the channel to the
PC, Windows© automatically recognizes it and ins-
talls the correspondent drivers. Additional drivers are
not required.
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USB channels appears in Windows© as “recording
device USB 1” and “recording device USB-2” (Win-
dows© numbers them according to the order in whi-
ch they were recognized). In the console; the display
indicator “Digital In/Out” will show “U4”, indicating
that stereo input and output of USB channel was re-
cognized. When connecting to channel 7 the indica-
tor will change to “U8”; and will appear in the compu-
ter a secondary playing and recording device (USB-
2). Both USB channels can be connected to the
same PC or to different computers (please see “Very
Important” note).
Remember that you can see the playing and recording
devices from “Control Panel > Audio and sound Devices >
Audio”. In this window you define the preferred devices for
Windows (those that applications use by default). This is
simple since the devices are selected from a drop-down
menu.
Obviously, you must configure the USB devices in the
automation and editing software that you use. If your PC
does not have installed a soundcard, default playing and
recording device will be USB-1 (channel 6 and PGM out-
put).
ON THE LEVEL: After installation, you mus adjus he
PLAYING LEVEL in t e Windows© mixer (“Programs > Acces-
sories > Entertainment > Windows Mixer”); since bot c annels
“born” SILENCED. Windows© erroneously s ows t e faders at
middle scale, but t e c annels are muted. Set t e main fader
(gain control) and WAVE faders to t e Maximum position.
In addition to the inputs, the connection of USB channels
offers two USB digital outputs, that appears in Win-
dows© as “recording device USB 1” (Channel-6 /
PGM) and “recording device USB 2” (Channel 7 /
REC). So that you have in the computer, in digital format,
the program and recording outputs (please see “2.2.3.2 –
USB Outputs”).
VER IMPORTANT
•USB 7 CANNOT BE USED IF CHANNEL USB 6 IS NOT
CONNECTED; since it is slave of channel 6. In order to
use only one USB channel always connect “DIGITAL 6”.
•WHEN TWO PCs ARE CONNECTED; CONSIDER
THAT CHANNEL 7 CANNOT BE USED IF THE COMPU-
TER CONNECTED TO CHANNEL 6 IS POWER OFF.
Usually channel 6 is used with the air PC; which is 24 Hs
operative.
Channels 6 and 7 also present analog inputs. Chan-
nel USB 6 has an auxiliary input -LINE 6- stereo, un-
balanced; with RCA connectors. Channel USB 7 has
a stereo balanced -BAL-7- with DIN-5 connector.
2.2.2.3 MICROPHONE INPUTS
The channels for microphones are balanced electro-
nically, with XLR standard connectors.
Channel MIC-3 can work like LINE channel, because
it presents a unbalanced auxiliary input with RCA
connectors. Therefore this channel does not com-
mand the Tally light and do not mute the Studio Mo-
nitors (still being assigned to entrance MIC-3).
The floating phantom power of 48 V activates, for the
three channels simultaneously, from the front of the con-
sole. Remember that the dynamic microphones support
without problems 48V of phantom, reason why is possi-
ble to mix dynamic and condenser MIC’s.
2.2.3 Audio outputs
2.2.3.1 PROGRAM AND RECORDING
Program output (PGM) is the main output that takes
the signal that will be emitted to the air. It is balan-
ced, with female TRS connectors (a.k.a. “jack” ¼”).
Recording output (REC) is balanced with TRS 1/4”
connectors.
In order to connect these outputs to an unbalance in-
put, connect only the (+) terminal, and leaving un-
connected the (-) one.
Balanced connec ion Plug o male XLR
(for eac c annel)
TRS (Plug) XLR (Cannon)
GND = sleeve
signal (+) = tip
signal (-) = ring
GND = pin 1
signal (+) = pin 2
signal (-) = pin 3
SOLID NE D·816 broadcast console Page 9

Please do not connect a signal pin (2 or 3) to
ground. Never uses “mono plug' s” to connect the
outputs.
The nominal output level is +4 dBu @ 0VU. If you
unbalance the outputs, take in mind that the level re-
duces in 6 dB, therefore 0VU = -2dBm.
Note that if some nonprofessional equipment is con-
nected to the balanced output, may the level be too
high, causing saturation. In those cases a fixed atte-
nuator must be used to reduce the level (a resistive
splitter is a solution).
2.2.3.2 USB OUTPUTS
The output signals PGM and REC are available also
in digital format; for direct connection to a PC using
the USB ports. This feature does not require any
additional installation. The USB recording devices
are available when connecting the USB input chan-
nels (please see “2.2.2.2 – USB digital inputs). The
channel 6 USB gives the program signal (PGM)
whereas channel 7 USB sends the recording signal
(REC).
Usually signal REC will be used for direct to hard
disk recording; whereas PGM, that is the on-air sig-
nal, finds its main utility for broadcasting of the signal
via Internet (WEB casting). For details of use the
USB outputs in Windows© please see “3,6 - Recor-
ding of programs”.
2.2.4 Monitoring outputs
2.2.4.1 HEADPHONES
There are separate outputs for study and control
room headphones; with individual level adjustment.
The Studio output has a distribution amplifier and
supports up to eight headphones of 32 Ohms con-
nected in parallel. So that each speaker has an inde-
pendent volume control; you can use headphones
with built-in level control or; as a more professional
solution, to mount a control on the speaker’s table. A
potentiometer of 2 x 1KOhm will be right to manage
the level. In this case the level control of the console
is left to the maximum.
Next scheme is the connection for the external level
control.
2.2.4.2 MONITORS
D-816 was designed to work with active loudspe-
akers. The STUDIO and CONTROL outputs work
with line level at 0 dBu. They have independent con-
trols for bus assignment and level. Both outputs use
female 1/8” TRS connectors.
Remember that studio monitors are muted when channels
MIC-1 or MIC-2 are opened. Control Room spea ers are
muted when the button Tal bac is pressed.
2.2.5 Tally
Tally output gives 12V/120 mA (2 Solidyne Air lights)
when MIC-1 and/or MIC-2 activates. Channel MIC-3
does not activate the light nor mutes the loudspe-
akers of the studio; since this channel also can ope-
rate as Line channel. Also MIC3 must be used when
the speaker/DJ operates the console from the Con-
trol Room (self-operation). In this case the control
room loudspeakers must be used with very low volu-
me to avoid feedbacks loops.
The consumption of the Tally Light output
NEVER must overpass 120 mA.
2.2.6 Telephonic Hybrid
2.2.6.1 CONNECTING STANDARD LINES
The hybrid channel manages to two land telephone
lines and one cellular phone. The internal adjust-
ments are from factory; so the user do not needs to
make adjustments.
On the rear panel there are three RJ11connectors.
Two are for the telephone lines, and the other one is
for the cell phone adapter cable.
The lines can directly be connected to public central
telephone or the local central (PBX) of the radio stati-
on.
Page 10 D·816 broadcast console SOLID NE