Spl Neos 1010 User manual

Manual

120-Volt Summing and Monitoring Console

Neos

Model 1010

SOLO

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120 Volts Analog

Pure Audio Performance

SIG SIG SIG SIG SIG SIG SIG SIG SIG SIG SIG SIG

24|2 Mixing Console

Made in Germany

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2Neos

Content

Manual Neos 4

Declaration of CE Conformity 4

Notes on Environmental Protection 4

Contact 4

Scope of Delivery and Packaging 5

Symbols and Notes 5

Introduction 6

The High Voltage Console 6

Concept 7

Features 7

Special Features 7

Special Technical Features 7

Important Security Advices 8

Placement 9

Rack Mounting 9

Placement Of The External Power Supply 9

Voltage Selector (External Power Supply) 9

Power connection and fuse 9

Hook Up 9

Power Connection 10

Signal Connections 10

On/Off Switch 10

GND Lift 11

XLR Sockets 11

DB 25 Sockets 11

Balanced Connections 11

Unbalanced connections (TS and RCA connectors) 11

Rear Panel – Switches & Connections, Basics 11

Rear Panel – Power Wiring Diagram 12

Rear Panel – Signal Wiring Diagram 13

Rear Panel 14

Inputs 1-8, 9-16, 17-24 14

Slave (additional input for additional Neos consoles) 14

Ins. Return (Insert Return) 14

Tape Rt. (Tape Return) 15

Rec Out

(Recording Output) 15

Monitor A and Monitor B 15

Alt. Out

(Alternative Output) 15

Ins. Send (Insert Send) 15

Metering 15

3

Neos

Content

Operation 16

Overview 16

Control Elements Input Path 16

Mono 16

Pan 17

Cut 17

To Monitor Only 17

Solo 17

Label Field 17

SIG LEDs 17

Fader 17

Control Elements Master Path 18

Mon B 18

Monitor 18

Monitoring with the Neos 18

Calibration 18

Mute 18

Dim 19

Mono 19

Tape Return 19

Master Insert 19

Bend 19

Fader 19

DAW-Integration 20

Integration Examples and Channel Assignment 20

Specifications 21

Inputs & Outputs 21

Measurements 21

Power Supply 21

Dimensions and Weight 21

Dimensions and Weight External Power Supply 21

Copy Master Recall Settings 22

Block Diagram 23

Mounting Dimensions 24

Dimensions and Weight 24

Mounting Angles 25

4Neos

Model 1010

Version 1.0 – 6/2011

Developer: Wolfgang Neumann

This manual contains a description of the product. It in no way represents a guarantee of

particular characteristics or results of use. The information in this document has been care-

fully compiled and veriﬁed and, unless otherwise stated or agreed upon, correctly describes

the product at the time of packaging with this document.

Sound Performance Lab (SPL) continuously strives to improve its products and reserves the

right to modify the product described in this manual at any time without prior notice.

may not be copied or reproduced in any manner, in part or fully, without prior authorization by

SPL. Names of other companies and their products are trademarks of their respective owners.

Declaration of CE Conformity

The construction of the Neos, Model 1010, is in compliance with the standards

and regulations of the European Community.

Notes on Environmental Protection

At the end of its operating life, this product must not be disposed of with regular

household waste but must be returned to a collection point for the recycling of

electrical and electronic equipment. The wheelie bin symbol on the product,

user‘s manual and packaging indicates that. The materials can be re-used in

accordance with their markings. Through re-use, recycling of raw materials, or other forms

of recycling of old products, you are making an important contribution to the protection of

our environment. Your local administrative office can advise you of the responsible waste

disposal point. WEEE Registration: 973 349 88.

Contact

SPL electronics GmbH

Sohlweg 80, 41372 Niederkruechten, Germany

Phone +49 (0) 21 63 98 34 0, Fax +49 (0) 21 63 98 34 20

E-Mail: info@spl.info, Website: spl.info

Manual Neos

5

Neos

IN THIS MANUAL A LIGHTNING SYMBOL WITHIN A TRIANGLE WARNS YOU ABOUT THE

POTENTIAL FOR DANGEROUS ELECTRICAL SHOCKS – WHICH CAN ALSO OCCUR EVEN AFTER

THE MACHINE HAS BEEN DISCONNECTED FROM A POWER SOURCE.

AN EXCLAMATION MARK (!) WITHIN A TRIANGLE IS INTENDED TO MAKE YOU AWARE OF

IMPORTANT OPERATIONAL ADVICE AND/OR WARNINGS THAT MUST BE FOLLOWED. BE

ESPECIALLY ATTENTIVE TO THESE AND ALWAYS FOLLOW THE ADVICE THEY GIVE.

The symbol of a lamp directs your attention to explanations of important functions or applica-

tions.

Attention: Do not attempt any alterations to this machine without the approval or supervision

of SPL electronics GmbH. Doing so could nullify completely any and all of your warranty/guar-

antee rights and claims to user support.

The scope of delivery comprises the Neos console, 19" rack-mounting side brackets, the

external power supply with ﬁxed cable for connection to the Neos, the external power

supply’s power cord, the guarantee card and this manual.

Please keep the original packaging. In case of a service procedure the original packaging

ensures a safe transport. It also serves as a safe packaging for your own transports if you do

not use special transportation cases.

Symbols and Notes

Scope of Delivery and Packaging

6Neos

Introduction

The High Voltage Console

Shortly after the turn of the millennium, SPL laid down new foundations for the improvement

of analog audio signal processing. Thanks to new components, circuitries and manufacturing

methods, we were able to increase the operating voltage enormously. Up to then, average

operating voltage ranged form 30 to 36 volts (+/- 15 or 18 volts, considering that voltage

supply is symmetrical). Maximum operating voltages reached 60 volts (+/- 30 volts). At the

core of our new technology are the handmade OP-amps that operate at 120 volts (+/- 60 volts),

which means that we have in fact doubled the highest levels ever reached until then.

The first products to integrate the 120-volt technology were exclusive, handmade custom solu-

tions for major mastering studios. At the time, music production had already been uprooted

by digital technology and the changes it brought with itself in terms of outfitting and work-

flow in music studios. Coincidentally, a new „mastering“ sector had already been established

— both in terms of the actual process and the gear in studios. If traditional recording and

mixing studios were on their way to digitalization, the most sophisticated mastering studios

were and have always been keen on analog technology, including high-quality signal proces-

sors that can still make a difference compared to the widely available software solutions. But

also technically demanding requirements such as superior sounding and designed switching

and monitoring consoles were among the products we were able to offer. While analog tech-

nology was being heralded as dead, SPL was decisively going in the opposite direction: we

were able to deliver analog products of the highest quality whose performance surpassed all

previous specifications — regardless of whether it was in the analog or digital realm.

In the last decade we have been able to keep up with the rapidly evolving developments in

digital technology while pushing further our analog products. It was imperative to work on the

foundations of the products‘ performance. Thus, if we consider that the basis of every circuit

is directly related to a voltage/performance ratio, the operating voltage is crucial for the

performance of any circuit. Given that audio technology is conceived to translate sound into

voltage, doubling the formerly highest operating voltage available results in a great improve-

ment, specially with regard to signal dynamics and the way they are processed. Technically

speaking, a wider dynamic range also means that the gap between the actual signal and other

undesired signals, such as noise and distortion, is larger — in the case of the Neos console,

for example, this results in not hearing any noises at all, regardless of the situation.

Our measurements reveal the improvements the 120-volt technology offers in comparison to

standard solutions (see „Technical Specifications“ on page 21). All these advantages are due

to the oversized signal traces, the rigorous selection of every single element and, of course,

the handmade components that contain no unnecessary audio processing parts (which are

very common in mass-produced operation amplifiers). But the technical specifications and

design say very little about the actual sound of an audio equipment. At the end of the day, an

audio device has to prove itself in use in the hands of sound engineers and musicians. We can

state with great satisfaction that our solution not only prevailed — ever since their introduc-

tion, our 120-volt products have passed all tests and proven worthy of the best.

The Neos is the first summing console based on the 120-volt technology. The basic concept

behind it was to combine essential summing capabilities, including faders and panorama

controls, with a complete and practical monitoring section — all in a compact design.

Accordingly, it fulfills the highest expectations regarding sound quality in mixing and moni-

toring situations. Thus, the Neos was conceived with sound engineers that set great impor-

tance on artistic and musical production in mind and whose workflow does not rely primarily

on undo and preset options. Nevertheless, the compact Neos can integrate seamlessly in

computer-based environments providing the characteristic high-quality sound and handling

of analog devices.

7

Neos

Introduction

Concept

• 24 channel summing console with faders and panorama controls

• Ideal for DAW-based studios with emphasis on audio quality. .

Features

• Input path with 100-mm ALPS faders, Pan controls, Mono, Cut, Solo, and “To Monitor

Only” push buttons, signal LEDs

• Master path with 100-mm ALPS faders, Inserts, Bend function (Limiting)

• Comprehensive monitoring section with Volume control, Tape Mix (DAW return), as well

as Mute, Dim and Mono push buttons

• Input: three eight-channel DB25 connectors (balanced, TASCAM standard); balanced

XLR connectors: Slave, Insert Return, Tape Return

• Output connectors (balanced XLR): Recording Out, Monitor A and Monitor B,

• Output connectors (unbalanced XLR): Alternative Out, Insert Send, Metering

Special Features

• Ultimate Mix and Monitoring Quality

• Compact design: 19"/7U

• Cascadable

• Hand made in Germany

Special Technical Features

• Unique 120-volt operating voltage. In comparison with common production mixers, the

Neos mixing and monitoring console uses four times as much operating voltage. A higher

voltage results in better performance: over 30 dB of headroom at the input, more than

122 dB of dynamic range, 92 dB signal-to-noise ratio over all channels.

• At the core of the 120-volt technology are our handmade, discrete op-amps with 116

dB signal-to-noise ratio and 34 dB of headroom. The 150 dB dynamic range covers a

frequency range of up to 200 kHz. These key figures are way beyond the demands of

current PCM digital formats with 24 bit/192 kHz sample rates and DSD digital formats

with 1 bit and 256 fs. It is not expected for digital technology to evolve so much in the

foreseeable future as to make the Neos a bottleneck in the signal processing path.

• All selected components for each unit are matched at the pre-production stage

• Important switching functions are performed via sealed relays

• Oversized signal traces, generous PCB layout for greater trace separation, star ground

scheme, linear power supply

8Neos

Important Security Advices

Please note and retain this manual. Carefully read and follow all of the safety and operating

instructions before you use the machine. Be doubly careful to follow all warnings and special

safety instructions noted in this manual and on the unit.

Connections: Only use the connections as described. Other connections can lead to health

risks and equipment damage.

Water and humidity: Do not use this machine anywhere near water (for example near a wash

basin or bath, in a damp cellar, near swimming pools, or the like). In such cases there is an

extremely high risk of fatal electrical shocks!

Insertion of foreign objects or ﬂuids: Never allow a foreign object through any of the

machine‘s chassis openings. You can easily come into contact with dangerous voltage or

cause a damaging short circuit. Never allow any ﬂuids to be spilled or sprayed on the machine.

Such actions can lead to dangerous electrical shocks or ﬁre!

Opening the unit: Do not open the machine housing, as there is great risk you will damage the

machine, or – even after being disconnected – you may receive a dangerous electrical shock!

Electrical power: Run this machine only from power sources which can provide proper power

in the range from 100 to 250 volts. When in doubt about a source, contact your dealer or a

professional electrician. To be sure you have isolated the machine, do so by disconnecting all

power and signal connections. Be sure that the power supply plug is always accessible. When

not using the machine for a longer period, make sure to unplug it from your wall power socket

and from the guitar amp.

Cord protection: Make sure that your power and guitar ampliﬁer signal cords are arranged

to avoid being stepped on or any kind of crimping and damage related to such event. Do not

allow any equipment or furniture to crimp the cords.

Power connection overloads: Avoid any kind of overload in connections to wall sockets,

extension or splitter power cords, or to signal inputs. Always keep manufacturer warnings

and instructions in mind. Overloads create ﬁre hazards and risk of dangerous shocks!

Lightning: Before thunderstorms or other severe weather, disconnect the machine from wall

power (but to avoid life threatening lightning strikes, not during a storm). Similarly, before

any severe weather, disconnect all the power connections of other machines and antenna and

phone/network cables which may be interconnected so that no lightning damage or overload

results from such secondary connections.

Air circulation: Chassis openings offer ventilation and serve to protect the machine from over-

heating. Never cover or otherwise close off these openings. Never place the machine on a soft

surface (carpet, sofa, etc.). Make sure to provide for a mounting space of 4-5 cm/2 inches to

the sides and top of the unit when mounting the unit in racks or on cabinets.

Controls and switches: Operate the controls and switches only as described in the manual.

Incorrect adjustments outside safe parameters can lead to damage and unnecessary repair

costs. Never use the switches or level controls to effect excessive or extreme changes.

Repairs: Unplug the unit from all power and signal connections and immediately contact a

qualiﬁed technician when you think repairs are needed – or when moisture or foreign objects

may accidentally have gotten in to the housing, or in cases when the machine may have fallen

and shows any sign of having been damaged. This also applies to any situation in which the

unit has not been subjected to any of these unusual circumstances but still is not functioning

normally or its performance is substantially altered. In cases of damage to the power supply

and cord, ﬁrst consider turning off the main circuit breaker before unplugging the power cord.

Replacement/substitute parts: Be sure that any service technician uses original replacement

parts or those with identical speciﬁcations as the originals. Incorrectly substituted parts can

lead to ﬁre, electrical shock, or other dangers, including further equipment damage.

Safety inspection: Be sure always to ask a service technician to conduct a thorough safety

check and ensure that the state of the repaired machine is in all respects up to factory stan-

dards.

Cleaning: In cleaning, do not use any solvents, as these can damage the chassis ﬁnish. Use

a clean, dry cloth (if necessary, with an acid-free cleaning oil). Disconnect the machine from

your power source before cleaning.

9

Neos

Hook Up

Placement

Place the unit on a level and stable surface or mount it into dedicated rack frames. The unit’s

enclosure is EMC-safe and effectively shielded against HF interference. Nonetheless, you

should carefully consider where you place the unit to avoid electrical disturbances. It should

be positioned so that you can easily reach it, but there are other considerations. Try not to

place it near heat sources or in direct sunlight, and avoid exposure to vibrations, dust, heat,

cold or moisture. It should also be kept away from transformers, motors, power ampliﬁers

and digital processors.

Rack Mounting

Be sure that both above and below the machine you maintain a distance of 4-5 cm/2 inches

in order to eliminate electromagnetic or high frequency interference from other equipment.

Moreover, this will ensure adequate air circulation to prevent overheating. Do NOT locate

other machines that produce excessive heat below the unit. The rear side of the machine

should be properly supported – especially when transport is involved.

Placement Of The External Power Supply

Do not place the external power supply on top of the Neos and vice versa. Place the external

power supply on a level and stable surface only. We recommend a distance of at least 50

cm/20 inches to avoid any interferences between the external power supply and the Neos

frame or other devices.

Choose a place that is easily accessible so that you can switch off the external power supply

quickly in case of an emergency.

Please mind the notes under “Power Connection” and “On And Off” on the next page.

Voltage Selector (External Power Supply)

Be very careful to check that the voltage selection switch is set to the correct local line

voltage position before using the unit (230 V position: 220-240 V/50 Hz, 115 V position:

110-120 V/60 Hz)! When in doubt about a source, contact your dealer or a professional electri-

cian.

BEFORE you connect electrical power make sure that the VOLTAGE selector setting reﬂects

the correct local power line voltage.

Power connection and fuse

Connect the power cord to the MAINS INPUT socket of the external power supply. Transformer,

power cord and case connection conform to VDE, UL and CSA requirements.

The fuse is accessible from outside and placed right behind the ﬂap right from the socket.

Fuse ratings are 2 A slow blow (

230

volts) or 4 A slow blow (

115

volts).

230V~50Hz | 2A slow

115V~60Hz | 4A slow

VOLTAGE | FUSE

Use slow blow fuse.

10 Neos

Hook Up

Power Connection

The Neos is fed through the external power supply. Before connecting the power supply

always make sure that the position of the voltage selector on the back of the RackPack corre-

sponds to the voltage of your local power supply (115V position: 110-120V, 230 V position:

220-240V). In case of doubt please ask your dealer, a professional electrician or your local

power supplier.

Before you connect the external power supply to the wall socket please switch its POWER

button to OFF. Also turn off all devices that you may have already connected to the RackPack.

If signal or power connections are changed in the future, always switch off power before.

Before you connect the external power supply to the wall socket you should connect it to the

Neos (see illustration on page 12). The cable fixed to the external power supply with the multi-

pin connector on the other end is made to connect to the Neos. It is not possible to connect it

incorrectly; place the groove at the end of the plug on the spring at the socket on the Neos and

tighten the screw.

After connecting the external power supply to the Neos and selecting the correct voltage on

the external power supply, connect the power supply to the wall socket and then turn on the

Neos with the POWER switch.

IMPORTANT: Never disconnect the external power supply from the Neos while the power is

switched on. Always turn the external power supply off ﬁrst and then wait approximately

one minute to allow for any residual current to discharge. Now you may disconnect the multi-

pin connector. Mind that residual current can damage the unit if you do not follow this proce-

dure!

Please read and follow all security advices on pages 4 and 5.

Signal Connections

IMPORTANT: Before ﬁrst connecting any other equipment – and in all other cases where you

are connecting cables with or from other sources – you should be sure to shut the unit and

all machines to be connected off (external power supply). Otherwise you risk to damage the

unit, connected gear or your ears.

On/Off Switch

With the external power supply’s Power switch you activate and deactivate the Neos, opera-

tional status is confirmed by the blue Power LED on the Neos front panel (top right corner).

On And Off

In switching on and off, you do not need to follow any particular sequence with connected

devices in the periphery of the Neos. There is, however, the general rule for a chain of devices

in the audio processing to always turn on power ampliﬁers last and to turn them off ﬁrst.

If speciﬁed sufﬁciently you can also switch the external power supply on and off through a

multiway connector or other main switches.

CONNECT TO EXTERNAL PSU

120 Volts Analog

Pure Audio Performance

P

O

W

E

R

POWER

11

Neos

Rear Panel – Switches & Connections, Basics

GND Lift

The rear panel GND LIFT switch eliminates hum by separating the internal ground from the

unit’s housing ground. Hum can, for example, result when this unit’s housing has a common

ground connection with other devices that might have a different ground potential. The

switch is usually deactivated to retain the shielding of the housing.

XLR Sockets

All signal connections are made via balanced or unbalanced XLR sockets. Pin wiring is shown

in the diagram below. Inputs are always female and accept male connectors; outputs are

always male. All in all, a comprehensible principle.

DB 25 Sockets

All 24 inputs are distributed on three eight-channel, female DB25 sockets. The connectors are

balanced and adhere to the Tascam standard (details on page 12).

Balanced Connections

In balanced connections a reference signal with reversed polarity is transmitted additionally

to the audio signal through a second wire. The ground signal is routed separately through

a third wire. Input and output stages are drivers and receivers, and the receiving stage can

suppress possible interferences by subtracting the difference between audio and reference

signal. The Neos employs electronic balancing stages (no transformers).

Unbalanced connections (TS and RCA connectors)

Unbalanced connections from and to RCA or 1/4" TS sockets can be made without adaptors to

the balanced XLR sockets. The correct wiring is important. The diagram shows the pin config-

uration of the XLR sockets and how to correctly connect them for unbalanced connections:

Connections to RCA sockets are always unbalanced, a wiring to jack connectors can be both

balanced (1/4" TRS/stereo jack) or unbalanced (1/4" TS/mono jack). We recommend to use

individually configured cables from XLR to RCA or jack sockets instead of adaptors. You can

get cables in any needed configuration from audio dealers. With the diagram above, the

dealer can ensure to provide the appropriate cable for your application.

Input Output

balanced unbalanced balanced unbalanced

1=GND

2=hot (+)

3=cold (-)

1

2

3

1

2

3

12

3

12

3

12 Neos

Rear Panel – Power Wiring Diagram

R LREC OUT

L RREC OUT

GND LIFT

GND

R LTAPE Rt.

L RTAPE Rt.

R LMONITOR A

L RMONITOR A

R LMONITOR B

L RMONITOR B

R LALT. OUT

L RALT. OUT

TO REDUCE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK.

DO NOT EXPOSE THIS UNIT RAIN OR MOISTURE.

DISCONNECT MAINS BEFORE REMOVING COVER.

THIS EQUIPMENT MUST BE EARTHED.

WARNING

Neos – Model 1010

www.spl.info

Made in Germany

Serial Number XLR (BAL.): 1 = GND | 2 = HOT (+) | 3 = COLD (–)

ALT. OUT XLR (UNBAL.):

1 = GND | 2 = HOT (+) | 3 = GND

XLR CONNECTOR WIRING

AVIS: RISQUE DE CHOC ÉLECTRIQUE – NE PAS OUVRIR

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

CAUTION

CONNECT TO EXTERNAL PSU

GND LIFT

1 = GND

RECORDING BUS: 2 = HOT (+) | 3 = COLD (–)

MONITOR BUS: 4 = HOT (+) | 5 = COLD (–)

SLAVE CONNECTOR WIRING

DB25 COMPLY WITH TASCAM STANDARD.

PLEASE REFER TO MANUAL FOR DETAILS.

DB 25 CONNECTOR WIRING

INPUTS 1 – 8

INPUTS 9 – 16

INPUTS 17 – 24

LR INS. RETURNLR INS. SENDLR METERINGLR SLAVE

SERIAL NUMBER

230V~50Hz | 2A slow

115V~60Hz | 4A slow

VOLTAGE | FUSE GND LIFT

WARNING:

TO REDUCE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK DO

NOT EXPOSE THIS UNIT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE. DISCONNECT MAINS

BEFORE REMOVING COVER. THIS EQUIPMENT MUST BE EARTHED.

AVIS: RISQUE DE CHOC ÉLECTRIQUE - NE PAS OUVRIR

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

CAUTION

POWER

MAINS INPUT

POWER OUTPUT TO AUDIO UNIT

Before you use the Neos, make sure that this voltage selector switch setting reflects

the correct local power line voltage (115V position: 110-120V, 230 V position: 220-240V).

In the drawing above the 230 V position is selected.

BEFORE switching on the external power supply,

connect the external power supply and the Neos

with the multi-pin power cord fixed to the external power supply.

NEVER disconnect the external power supply

from the Neos while the power supply

is still switched on.

First switch off the external power supply

and wait at least one minute before disconnecting.

Otherwise residual currents can cause serious damages!

1

2

3

The rear panel GND lift switches

eliminate hum by separating

the internal ground from the

unit’s housing ground.

If hum occurs, press the

switches to activate GND lift.

spl.info

NEOS

Power Supply Unit

Model 1010-P

MADE IN GERMANY

IMPORTANT: CONNECT POWER CORD

TO NEOS BEFORE SWITCHING ON POWER!

Use slow blow fuse.

13

Neos

Rear Panel – Signal Wiring Diagram

R LREC OUT

L RREC OUT

GND LIFT

GND

R LTAPE Rt.

L RTAPE Rt.

R LMONITOR A

L RMONITOR A

R LMONITOR B

L RMONITOR B

R LALT. OUT

L RALT. OUT

TO REDUCE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK.

DO NOT EXPOSE THIS UNIT RAIN OR MOISTURE.

DISCONNECT MAINS BEFORE REMOVING COVER.

THIS EQUIPMENT MUST BE EARTHED.

WARNING

Neos – Model 1010

www.spl.info

Made in Germany

Serial Number XLR (BAL.): 1 = GND | 2 = HOT (+) | 3 = COLD (–)

ALT. OUT XLR (UNBAL.):

1 = GND | 2 = HOT (+) | 3 = GND

XLR CONNECTOR WIRING

AVIS: RISQUE DE CHOC ÉLECTRIQUE – NE PAS OUVRIR

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

CAUTION

CONNECT TO EXTERNAL PSU

GND LIFT

1 = GND

RECORDING BUS: 2 = HOT (+) | 3 = COLD (–)

MONITOR BUS: 4 = HOT (+) | 5 = COLD (–)

SLAVE CONNECTOR WIRING

DB25 COMPLY WITH TASCAM STANDARD.

PLEASE REFER TO MANUAL FOR DETAILS.

DB 25 CONNECTOR WIRING

INPUTS 1 – 8

INPUTS 9 – 16

INPUTS 17 – 24

LR INS. RETURNLR INS. SENDLR METERINGLR SLAVE

Pin Wiring XLR Inputs:

1=GND, 2=hot (+), 3=cold (-)

Pin Wiring XLR Outputs:

1=GND, 2=hot (+), 3=cold (-)

21

3

21 3

Second Neos: connect

with SPL cable only!

balancedunbalanced balanced

Input Channels 1-24

(3 x eight-channel DB25)

Sum Processing

(e. g. Compressor, EQ)

Level

Display

balancedbalanced

unbalanced balanced balanced

Speakers

(e. g. Full Range)

Speakers

(e. g. Near Field)

Record summed signal

(DAW/AD converter, Tape)

Listen to recorded signals

(DAW/DA converter, Tape)

Alternative Output

(e. g. Headphone Amplifier)

14 Neos

Rear Panel Inputs

Inputs 1-8, 9-16, 17-24

The balanced DB25 input connectors are meant to connect the different signal sources. The

Neos’ 24 inputs are divided into three DB25 connectors. You can get ready-made XLR or jack

snakes in your local specialized store.

The maximum input level of the DB25 inputs is ›30dBu. The connectors are balanced and

adhere to the Tascam standard according to the following pin assignment:

Slave (additional input for additional Neos consoles)

The Slave input allows the connection of additional Neos consoles. When two consoles are

interconnected you have 48 channels at your disposal. You can connect an unlimited number

of Neos with each other. The connector is based on a special 5-pin XLR format.

IMPORTANT: the interconnection of Neos consoles can only be established via a custom-

made cable manufactured by SPL under request.

When two or more Neos are interconnected, the stereo output signal is summed, so instead

of summing 24-in-2 channels you have 48 (or more) channels summed into one stereo signal.

The connection has no set direction, which means the sum signal of all channels is always

present in the outputs (Rec Out, Monitor A and B, and Alt Out) of all interconnected Neos.

Therefore, all recording media should be normally connected to only one Neos — but there

are many connection possibilities open with all other units involved.

The slave function applies only to the sum of the stereo output signals pre-Master path.

Generally speaking, the Neos considered the “Master” will be the one to which the monitor

speakers are connected. All switching functions of the Master path can be applied to the

totality of channels which have been summed. All switching functions of a single input path

apply only to the corresponding Neos unit. In this respect, each Neos is to be considered and

operated independently. For example, the Solo function of any input path: to listen to an

isolated channel you have to depress the corresponding Solo switch; however, the channels

of the other interconnected Neos consoles are not muted. A practical solution for this would

be to activate a solo function in your DAW that would affect all channels.

Other interesting possibilities arise when two or more Neos units are connected to the moni-

toring system along with other gear. There are many individual solutions available, which we

will be more than happy to discuss with you.

Ins. Return (Insert Return)

Use the Master Insert loop to add external signal processors to the Neos’ internal processing.

Connect the Master Insert’s returning signal, i.e. the output signal of the external processor, to

the Ins. Return input.

The maximum level these unbalanced inputs can handle is › 24 dBu. To activate the Insert

function use the Master Insert push button in the Master path (for more information see

Control Elements, Master Insert, on page 19).

1

14

13

25

GCHGCHGCHGCHGCHGCHGCHGCH

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

G=GROUND (GND), C=COLD (-), H=HOT (+)

INPUTS 17 – 24

INPUTS 1 – 8

INPUTS 9 – 16

LR SLAVE

LR INS. RETURN

15

Neos

Rear Panel

Outputs

Tape Rt. (Tape Return)

The Tape Return function allows you to bring back the recorded signal to the Neos in order to

listen to it. Connect to the Tape Rt. input the output signal of the DA converter or tape machine.

The maximum level these balanced inputs can handle is › 30 dBu. To activate the input use the

Tape Return push button in the Master path (for more information see Control Elements, Tape

Return, on page 19).

Rec Out

(Recording Output)

The output signal of the Neos is available at the Rec Out so you can record the final mixdown.

This where the AD and tape machines ought to be connected.

The maximum level delivered by the Rec Outputs is › 24 dBu.

Monitor A and Monitor B

The balanced Monitor A and Monitor B outputs are meant to feed power amps or active

monitor speakers. The two separate outputs allow the use of two different monitor speakers.

Generally speaking, Monitor A is always active. To switch to Monitor B use the Mon B push

button on the Maser path.

The maximum level delivered by the Monitor B output is › 24 dBu.

Alt. Out

(Alternative Output)

At these outputs you have a copy of the Rec Out signal. The Alternative Outputs can be used

to connect a headphones preamplifier.

The maximum level delivered by the unbalanced Alt Outputs is › 24 dBu.

Ins. Send (Insert Send)

Use the Master Insert loop to add external signal processors to the Neos’ internal processing.

Connect the inputs of external signal processors to the unbalanced Ins. Send outputs. To acti-

vate the Insert function use the Master Insert push button in the Master path (for more infor-

mation see Control Elements, Master Insert, on page 19).

The Send outputs deliver › 24 dBu.

Metering

Use the unbalanced Metering output to connect VU or PPM meters in order to monitor the

signal of the Rec. Outputs. The nominal level is calibrated to 0 dB. The maximum level deliv-

ered by the Metering Outputs is › 24 dBu.

R LTAPE Rt.

L RTAPE Rt.

R LREC OUT

L RREC OUT

R LMONITOR A

L RMONITOR A

R LALT. OUT

L RALT. OUT

LR INS. SEND

LR METERING

16 Neos

Overview

Operation

Control Elements Input Path

Overview

The control elements of the Neos console are distributed horizontally across the input paths

and Master path.

The Master path is on the far right. This section houses the processing functions and control

elements of the output signal, as well as all monitoring functions.

To the left are the twelve stereo input paths. In the input paths is where the level and

panorama settings, as well as some other functions, of the signals to be mixed is adjusted.

In principle there are only two different types of paths. Thus, it is almost absurd to even think

of a learning curve to actually start working with the Neos — instead, we could say there is

one single learning step, which is almost self-explanatory just by reading the names of the

functions involved.

Mono

The Neos offers 24 input channels in total. Two channels make up what we call an input path.

Input paths work generally in stereo. When working with mono signals (vocals, instruments

recorded on one single channel, etc.) you use only one of the channels of the input path.

Depress the Mono push button on the corresponding path to place the signal in the center of

the stereo panorama, instead of hard left. That way you can use the Pan control to place the

signal wherever you want in the stereo field.

SOLO

CUT

MONO

To Monitor

Only

SOLO

CUT

MONO

To Monitor

Only

SOLO

CUT

MONO

To Monitor

Only

SOLO

CUT

MONO

To Monitor

Only

SOLO

CUT

MONO

To Monitor

Only

SOLO

CUT

MONO

To Monitor

Only

SOLO

CUT

MONO

To Monitor

Only

SOLO

CUT

MONO

To Monitor

Only

SOLO

CUT

MONO

To Monitor

Only

SOLO

CUT

MONO

To Monitor

Only

SOLO

CUT

MONO

To Monitor

Only

SOLO

CUT

MONO

To Monitor

Only

120 Volts Analog

Pure Audio Performance

SIG SIG SIG SIG SIG SIG SIG SIG SIG SIG SIG SIG

24|2 Mixing Console

Made in Germany

L

C

R

P

A

N

M

O

N

I

T

O

R

-

8

0

-

6

0

-

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MON B

MUTE

DIM

TAPE

RETURN

MASTER

INSERT

MONO

BEND

dB dB

+6

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22

19

20

17

18

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Model 1010

P

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+6

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+6

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+6

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+6

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-∞

L

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P

A

N

L

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P

A

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L

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P

A

N

L

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R

P

A

N

L

C

R

P

A

N

L

C

R

P

A

N

L

C

R

P

A

N

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C

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L

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A

N

MONO

17

Neos

Control Elements Input Path

Pan

Use the Pan control to place the signal in the stereo field of the sum signal. Both mono and

stereo signals can be placed continuously in the stereo field anywhere from hard left (L) to

center (C) and hard right (R).

Cut

Use the Cut push button to mute the input signal of the corresponding channel. The input

signal is withdrawn from the mix and therefore is not available anymore in the sum or monitor

signals.

To Monitor Only

Use this push button to assign the corresponding input path exclusively to the monitoring

bus. This function is based upon standard voltage circuitry with a max. I/O level of ‹20 dBu*.

To Monitor Only overrides the Cut function on the monitoring bus. If both push buttons are

engaged, the signal will be heard but not mixed. This can be very convenient, for example,

when you need to only play back a stereo signal.

Solo

The Solo push button mutes all other channels, i.e. the only channel that is heard is the one

with Solo engaged. The Solo function relates only to the monitor bus, it does not affect the

mix signal.

This function is based upon standard voltage circuitry with a max. I/O level of ‹20 dBu*.If you

activate several Solo buttons, you hear alle channels with active Solo button. Compared to

the usual play back, there are two main differences: The signal is always switched to mono,

and the Solo function is carried out in PFL mode (Pre Fader Listening). This means the signal

is routed to Solo before the fader with a fixed level. Faint signals are well audible, too – your

fader settings, eventually found after longer work, do not have to be altered.

Label Field

Use this space to label the channels any way you want. The easiest and most practical way

to label the channels is to use a pencil given that they are easily readable, do not hurt the

surface and can be easily erased. If you prefer stickers, use removable ones or adhesive tape.

SIG LEDs

The Signal LEDs turn on when the input level surpasses -10 dBu. This allows checking whether

the feed signal is actually being sensed when using complex connections. On the other side, it

also allows you to monitor the signal level.

Fader

The faders are meant to control the signal level. Each fader controls both channels of a single

input path; when in mono mode this applies to the channel in use. The level ranges from +6dB

to -∞.

The ALPS fader with dust cover has a generous 100 mm travel. The fader control curve is

optimal for mixing applications and has been matched to the human hearing response, which

means it is not linear. The range with the smoothest and finest response ranges from 0 to

+6dB. But the range from 0 dB to around -15 dB also has a very high resolution.

* All other stages are capable of processing higher input levels (› 30 dB). If the stages of these

monitoring functions are overloaded, the recording and master monitoring signals are not

affected. Reduce the fader setting of the respective channel if necessary.

L

C

R

P

A

N

CUT

dB

+6

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4

3

2

0

-2

-4

-5

-6

-8

-10

-12

-15

-18

-20

-24

-28

-36

-40

-50

-∞

SIG

1

2

SOLO

To Monitor

Only

18 Neos

Control Elements Master Path

Mon B

Use the Master path’s top-most push button to activate the Monitor B output. Monitor output

A will be muted. Usually you would have two different sets of monitor speakers connected.

With the Monitor B push button you can choose the set you want to listen to. However, you

can always connect a headphones preamp to one of the Monitor outputs. Take into account

that you should always calibrate both Monitor outputs to always have the same level — even

if you use headphones. In this last case, adjust the level so that when you set 0 dB in the

headphones preamp volume control and the Neos Monitor control you get the same sound

pressure level as you would with monitor speakers in the listening position. Apart from being

able to compare sound pressure levels between different monitor speakers, this also avoids

any unpleasant volume differences when switching from one monitoring set to the other.

Once you are done calibrating the headphones preamp, always adjust the volume level on the

Neos without modifying the preamp’s level control. Please refer to “Calibrate“ on this page.

Monitor

Use the Monitor control to set the listening volume. This control affects Monitor outputs

A and B. The potentiometer used is a “Big Blue” ALPS (RK27). This type of potentiometers

are well-known for their high overload capacity, even response and a very smooth rotation

with enough resistance but without being stiff. The Monitor control uses a relative dB scale

referenced to the input level. The 0 dB mark is approximately at the 2-o’clock position, which

means that when set to this position the input level is “as is” (the amplification factor is 1 or

“Unity gain”). The control range extends from -80 dB to +7 dB. The control’s sensitivity is

maximal at normal listening levels, due to a higher resolution, from -18 dB to +7 dB, with the

highest resolution above 0 dB.

Monitoring with the Neos

Just like the summing section, the Neos monitoring section also benefits from the 120-volt

technology. This means that the consciously sound-oriented design and highest quality

components result in superb technical specifications providing the ultimate listening quality.

When the best conditions are given for analog signals to be played back, the desire for the

cleanest and most neutral monitoring is also satisfied. Technical evidence suggests that

signal disturbances are far below audible limits and sometimes even near to measuring limits.

What is left is sound — unaltered and unlimited, within what is technically feasible. You actu-

ally listen to music instead of a “Controller” and its characteristics.

Calibration

Considering that even the slightest level variation of 0.5 dB can produce differences in the

perception of sound quality, it is of utmost importance to be able to make precise compari-

sons with several loudspeakers or headphones. That is the reason why one of the basics of

monitoring is the calibration of loudspeakers and headphones. Power amplifiers and active

loudspeakers have to be adjusted to the reference level measured at the listening point.

The calibration is made with a sound level meter (or SPL meter; in this case SPL stands for

Sound Pressure Level). The SPL meter can also be used to measure headphones when placed

between the cups. Recommended calibration procedures and other exciting information on

monitoring are incorporated into Bob Katz‘s “K-System,” where monitoring, metering, and

leveling are defined and standardized as an integrated process (Level Practices Part One and

Two, by Bob Katz, Digital Domain, Inc., www.digido.com).

Mute

Use the Mute control to momentarily turn off both Monitor outputs without having to modify

the level settings.

MON B

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MUTE

DIM

19

Neos

Control Elements Master Path

Dim

Dim reduces 20 dB the listening volume of both monitor outputs. This setting can be used,

for example, to compare the same mix at two different listening levels without having to

modify the Volume control. 20 dB is a value which has been accepted in the industry as a

standard.

Mono

The mono switch sums the two channels that make up the stereo signal. The mono signal is

played back on both channels. The mono function allows checking the mono compatibility of

a mix, i.e. which signals are too faint or disappear completely when played back in mono. Even

if this test is not as important today as it used to be, it is still essential for radio mixes and

vinyl productions.

Tape Return

Connect the outputs of the recording device (D/A converter, computer, tape machine, etc.)

to the Tape Return inputs (see also page 13 “Tape Return”). That way you can listen to the

mixdown recorded and compare it to the output signal of the Neos with a simple button. Even

if it is not very common to have signals recorded on tape anymore, we decided to use the

traditional and most common term used for this application.

Master Insert

Use the Master Insert push button to connect external processors to the Neos via the Send/

Insert Return connectors. The insert affects the sum signal on the master path.

Common signal processors used at this stage are equalizers and compressors.

Bend

The Bend function activates a multi-stage, passive diode limiter that can level out curves and

limit signal peaks. The diodes used are made of germanium and silicon. While the former have

smoother curves, silicon diodes are a bit harder. The Bend diode network is designed in a way

that the processing becomes more aggressive the higher the signal level is. The processing

range starts at -6 dB and extends almost 20 dB. When level differences are small processing

is barely noticeable, however dynamic material will produce more distinct results. The inter-

action between the Bend limiter and the input channels and master signal saturation can be

very interesting. Since limiting is intensified by higher levels, you can achieve clearer targeted

or overall limiting effects. Typical applications are found in rock and pop music whenever the

signal sound needs to be fatter or the coloration of the diodes is desired. With transient-rich

signals it can also have an impact on rhythmic and timing (percussion instruments, piano,

plucked strings, etc.). In a more general sense, the Bend function also works as a protection

device by limiting signal peaks before they reach the converter.

Fader

Use the fader to set the level of the sum signal for recording. The level ranges from +8 dB to

-∞. The 0 dB point is shifted slightly compared to the input faders in order to allow for up to

+8 dB of gain. There are roughly two saturation methods: either the input channels are satu-

rated while the sum signal is kept at moderate levels, or the input channel signals are kept

moderate while the sum signal is saturated. Both approaches are valid, the pros and cons

depend on the music genre and other signal processing applied. The Neos certainly offers the

best design and technical conditions for every approach.

BEND

MUTE

DIM

dB

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+8

TAPE

RETURN

MASTER

INSERT

MONO

TAPE

RETURN

MASTER

INSERT

20 Neos

DAW-Integration

Integration Examples and Channel Assignment

A common way to feed the 24 channels of the Neos would be to use three eight-channel D/A

converters. As a rule, one converter is defined as the main converter and the two others are

connected in chain. As long as the converters have the same DB25 connectors the connection

is straight forward and the channel assignment corresponds to the one in the DAW’s setup.

A high-quality two-channel converter might the best option to record the signal of the Neos’

Rec. Out. The A/D stage could also be integrated through the S/PDIF inputs of the main

converter. The recorded signal can be routed to the two-channel converter through the S/PDIF

outputs of the main converter, whose D/A output would then be connected to the Tape Return

of the Neos.

If the analog outputs of the converter are available as separate XLR and jack connectors, a

clever channel assignment could save converter channels. Typical sessions have usually four

mono channels (vocals, snare, kick, and bass) while the rest of the elements are available as

stereo stems in the DAW (keyboards, guitars, backing vocals, overheads, toms, etc.). In this

scenario you can make the final mixdown with the Neos. Nevertheless, do take into consider-

ation that the more channels available for a production, the better.

Here is an example of such a session: once again we have three eight-channel converters,

however this time they have separate outputs connected via eight XLR/jack-to-D25 snake

cables. In the DAW, route the four mono channels to outputs 5, 6, 7, and 8 of the first converter.

Afterwards, connect the converter outputs with the Neos DB25 inputs 1, 3, 5, and 7. That way,

the mono signals are now controlled by the first faders of the Neos — and considering that

the input paths are stereo, whenever you use mono signals one of the channels is free (in this

example, DB25 outputs 2, 4, 6, and 8). All other stereo stems from the DAW should be routed

to the Neos through the two other converters. On the first converter you still have four output

channels left, which you can use for the Tape Return input of the Neos and a headphones mix.

SPL Neos 1010 User manual

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