Mackie Musical Instrument DX8 User Manual

DX8 Digital Audio Mixer/

Signal Processor

with Automixing

Instruction Manual

DX8 DIGITAL MIXER

LOCK

MODE

MASTER

COMM PORT

POWER

SERIAL NUMBER

MANUFACTURING DATE

DX8 DIGITAL MIXER

DIRECT OUTPUTS

THE FOLLOWING ARE TRADEMARKS OR REGISTERED

TRADEMARKS OF MACKIE DESIGNS INC "MACKIE",

INPUTS

+5V

–

"MACKIE INDUSTRIAL", AND THE "RUNNING MAN" FIGURE

CONCEIVED, DESIGNED, AND MANUFACTURED

BY MACKIE DESIGNS INC WOODINVILLE

•

USA

-20 +20

MADE IN USA FABRIQUE AU USA

•

30dB +30dB

TRIM

30dB +30dB

TRIM

30dB +30dB

TRIM

30dB +30dB

TRIM

30dB +30dB

TRIM

30dB +30dB

TRIM

30dB +30dB

TRIM

30dB +30dB

TRIM

BUS A

TRIM

BUS B

OUTPUTS

MIC

REMOTE BUS

OUTPUTS

COMM PORT

LOGIC I/O

MIC

POWER

INPUT

28V DC,

3A MAX

–

LINE

PHANTOM POWER

48V DC

–

100

–

240V

50/60Hz, 1A MAX

LISTED COMMERCIAL

AUDIO EQUIPMENT

9Z39

RECORD

LINE

2. INTRODUCTION

and 4-Switch (DX-SW4) versions and may be

combined in any configuration.

The DX8 is a DSP-based digital audio mixer and

signal processor designed for use in a variety of

installations such as churches, courtrooms,

The DX8 is supplied with PC software that

allows access to all of the system’s settings and

configurations. The software offers access to the

Automixing controls, two 1/3-octave equalizers, two

5-band parametric equalizers, and two compressors

dedicated to the two master outputs. In addition, it

allows configuration and recall of up to 16 Presets, 8

input Priority Levels, 8 Mute Groups, and 8 Control

Groups. Force ON and OFF functions are provided,

with a selection of Relative or Absolute changes,

which can be used with the Priority settings to

create sophisticated audio management systems.

All settings and text labels are retained in the DX8,

and can be saved on the computer’s local drive.

The DX8 is UL and CE approved and designed

for continuous use in professional fixed installation

systems. An internal auto-ranging power supply

allows connection to mains voltages from 90-240V AC

at 50/60 Hz without requiring jumper or switch

setting changes. A 24 VDC input is provided for

applications where backup power is required.

Switchover to backup power is automatic and silent.

convention centers, and hotels. It provides eight

universal inputs and two balanced outputs allowing

true 8x2 mixing for stereo or dual-zone applications.

The DX8 includes powerful signal processing

software to complement the 8x2 mixing structure.

Automixing capability allows the DX8 to be setup for

applications where a human operator is not available.

Each of the eight input channels is terminated to

two Phoenix-type detachable connectors. Each

connector is optimized to accept either microphone

or line-level signals. Microphone preamplifiers

employ Mackie’s proprietary XDR™ technology to

offer studio-class audio performance. Phantom

power of 48 VDC is switchable individually on each

input. Two auxiliary line-level inputs with trim are

provided, allowing analog signals to be mixed with

the A and B master mixes. Master outputs deliver

balanced line-level signals to detachable Phoenix-

type connectors as well as buffered unbalanced

signals to RCA connectors intended for recording.

The DX8 offers an intuitive front panel user

interface, consisting of dual-function LED bar graph

meters for each input and output. Input meters

indicate the presence of signal before signal pro-

cessing (pre-fader), while output meters indicate

actual level at the output (post-fader). Levels are set

by means of UP/DOWN pushbuttons dedicated to

each input and output. A MODE button is used to

select between Mix A and B, allowing adjustment

of levels to both mix outputs from the same set of

input controls. A third function of the MODE button

allows the user to LOCK the front panel controls

until a security unlock code is entered.

The DX8 offers flexible interface options through

dedicated inputs and outputs for control and

programming purposes. Two independent RS232

connectors are provided, one on the front panel and

one on the rear, for connection to a computer or

control system. A multi-pin (DB25F) connector on

the rear panel allows interface among the 10 Logic

Inputs and 10 Logic Outputs. This interface

KEY FEATURES

•

32-bit DSP and 24-bit Analog/Digital Conversion

8 balanced XDR™ Mic/Line inputs with trim

2 balanced Line inputs direct to mix buses A and B

2 Independent Mix Buses and balanced Outputs

2 unbalanced Record Outputs

8 unbalanced Direct Channel Outputs

Individual Level/Peak (PPM) metering on each Input and Output

3-band sweepable Hi/Lo shelving and mid-peaking EQ

on each Input

•

2-band sweepable shelving EQ on each Output

31-band Graphic EQ on each Output

5-band Parametric EQ on each Output

One fully variable Compressor on each Output

Independent Automixing function for each Output to maximize

acoustic gain and prevent feedback

connects to switches, LEDs, and other devices,

enabling hardware control and indication from

custom control panels. All logic inputs and outputs

are fully programmable in software. A proprietary

remote control bus allows connection of the

optional wired remotes over three-conductor cable.

Remotes are available in Volume Control (DX-RVC)

•

10 Programmable Logic Inputs

10 Programmable Logic Outputs

2 independent RS-232 interface ports

48 VDC Phantom Power switch per input

24 VDC Backup Power input

Hardware Expansion Port accepts optional modules

PC Software application included

Part No. SW0065 Rev. A 05/03

DX8 – 3

FRONT PANEL FEATURES

INPUT UP/DOWN BUTTONS

EQ LED DISPLAY

Use these buttons to adjust the mix level for each

input channel.

When an EQ UP/DOWN button is pressed, the EQ

meter indicates the amount of boost or cut of the

LO and HI frequencies in decibels ( 15 dB).

INPUT LED DISPLAY

When both "0" LEDs are lit, the gain is set to unity

(flat response).

This indicates the signal level after the mic preamp

stage, just after the A/D converter, but prior to any

digital signal processing. When any input UP/

DOWN button is pressed, all the meters (except

EQ) switch from level metering to level setting

indication. After five seconds, the meters switch

back to normal peak program metering (PPM).

Note: The EQ meters do not indicate signal level.

MASTER A/B UP/DOWN BUTTONS

These buttons adjust the output level for each

output bus.

When the 10 and 7 LEDs are both lit, the gain is set

to unity (0 dB).

MASTER OUTPUT LED DISPLAY

This indicates the signal level after the digital signal

processing and MASTER gain stage, just prior to

the D/A converter. When any MASTER UP/DOWN

button is pressed, all the meters (except EQ) switch

from level metering to level setting indication. After

five seconds, the meters switch back to normal

peak program metering (PPM).

EQ LO/HI UP/DOWN BUTTONS

Use these buttons to adjust the gain of the 2-band

shelving EQ on the outputs. The range is 15 dB.

MASTE

SERIAL NUMBER

MANUFACTURING DATE

DX8 DIGITAL MIXER

DIRECT OUTPUTS

THE FOLLOWING ARE TRADEMARKS OR REGISTERED

TRADEMARKS OF MACKIE DESIGNS INC "MACKIE",

"MACKIE INDUSTRIAL", AND THE "RUNNING MAN" FIGURE

CONCEIVED, DESIGNED, AND MANUFACTURED

BY MACKIE DESIGNS INC WOODINVILLE • WA • USA

-20 +20

30dB +30dB

TRIM

30dB +30dB

TRIM

30dB +30dB

TRIM

30dB +30dB

TRIM

30dB +30dB

TRIM

30dB +30dB

TRIM

30dB +30dB

TRIM

30dB +30dB

TRIM

BUS A

TRIM

BUS B

MIC

POWER

INPUT

28V DC,

3A MAX

–

LINE

–

100 –240V , 50/60Hz, 1A MAX

LISTED COMMERCIAL

AUDIO EQUIPMENT

9Z39

LINE

DX8 – 4

REAR PANEL FEATURES

MODE

This switch changes the front panel operation

between Bus A and Bus B operation. In addition,

the LOCK position disables the front panel controls

to prevent unauthorized changes to the settings. A

security code must be entered to enable the front

panel controls when the DX8 is locked. See page 17

for more information on locking and unlocking the DX8.

INPUTS 1-8

Each of the eight analog inputs has separate

balanced mic and line input connectors that use

Mackie’s acclaimed XDR mic preamps. These are 3-

pin Phoenix-type connectors. Use either the MIC or

LINE input, but only one can be used per channel.

TRIM

COMM PORT

This rotary analog control is used to trim the gain of

the input signal for optimum signal-to-noise ratio in

the preamp stage. For mic-level signals, it provides

from 0 to +60 dB of gain. For line-level signals, it

provides from –30 dB to +30 dB of gain, with unity

(0 dB) at the center position. This control accepts a

maximum input signal of +18 dBu before clipping

(at unity gain).

This is an RS-232 port on a 9-pin D-Sub connector,

which connects to a personal computer or other

compatible control system for external control of

the DX8 settings. A second COMM port on the rear

panel duplicates this function, for permanent

connection to an installed controller.

POWER

Use the POWER switch to turn the DX8 on and off.

PHANTOM POWER

These switches apply phantom power (+48 VDC) to

pins 2 and 3 of the selected mic input connectors.

Switch the PHANTOM POWER switch in the UP

position for an individual channel when using a

condenser microphone.

BUS A/B INPUTS

These analog inputs accept balanced line-

level signals and route the signal to the

internal buses. These inputs may serve as

additional zone inputs for program devices,

or to connect the BUS A and BUS B

outputs from another DX8. There is no DSP

processing on these inputs.

DX8 DIGITAL MIXER

LOCK

MODE

MASTER

BUS A and B TRIM

COMM PORT

POWER

These rotary analog controls are used to

trim the gain of the inputs to the buses.

This trim control provides from –20 dB to

+20 dB of gain, with unity (0 dB) at the

center-detent position.

DIRECT OUTPUTS

This 15-pin D-Sub connector supplies an

analog, unbalanced line-level signal from

each of the eight program inputs, post-

preamp and pre-processing. Use these

outputs to connect to another mixing

console for additional zone coverage, to a

telephone system for music-on-hold, or to

a multi-track recorder. See page 12 for the

Direct Output pinouts.

TURING DATE

INPUTS

+5V

–

0dB

30dB +30dB

TRIM

OUTPUTS

LOGIC I/O

MIC

REMOTE BUS

OUTPUTS

COMM PORT

PHANTOM POWER

48V DC

–

RECORD

LINE

DX8 – 5

remote controls can be connected to each other in

a daisy-chain fashion to extend the remote control

functionality of the DX8.

RECORD Out

These RCA connectors supply unbalanced line-level

signals from the BUS A and BUS B outputs. Use

these outputs to connect to the inputs of a

recorder, or as additional line-level outputs to

connect to an external power amplifier. The signals

are the same as the main outputs.

COMM PORT

This is identical to the COMM PORT on the front

panel. Use this to connect to an RS-232 serial port

on a personal computer or third-party controller (i.e.,

show controller) for external control of the DX8.

OUTPUTS A/B

These 3-pin Phoenix-type connectors supply a

balanced line-level signal from BUS A and BUS B

EXPANSION SLOT

The optional DX10e card can be installed here. It

provides eight additional independent balanced

output mixes.

LOGIC I/O

This 25-pin D-Sub connector provides 10 logic

control inputs and 10 logic control outputs (open-

collector). These inputs can be used to control a

wide variety of DX8 functions via external

switching. The outputs can be used to provide logic

for external indicators for a number of internal

settings and conditions. The function of each logic

input and output can be programmed via software

to suit individual applications. See page 13 for the

Logic I/O pinouts.

24 VDC POWER

The DX8 can be powered using a 24 VDC power

supply. This can serve as the primary power supply

for the DX8, or as a backup supply in case of an AC

power failure. The DX8 seamlessly switches to the

backup supply if there’s a power loss. When both

AC power and 24V DC power are connected, the

AC power is used and no current is drawn from the

DC supply.

REMOTE BUS

IEC AC Socket

This 3-pin Phoenix-type connector can be used to

attach optional remote controls to the DX8. Several

Connect the supplied AC linecord to the IEC AC

socket.

SERIAL NUMBER

MANUFACTURING DATE

DX8 DIGITAL MIXER

DIRECT OUTPUTS

THE FOLLOWING ARE TRADEMARKS OR REGISTERED

TRADEMARKS OF MACKIE DESIGNS INC "MACKIE",

"MACKIE INDUSTRIAL", AND THE "RUNNING MAN" FIGURE

INPUTS

+5V

–

CONCEIVED, DESIGNED, AND MANUFACTURED

USA

BY MACKIE DESIGNS INC WOODINVILLE

•

-20 +20

MADE IN USA

•

FABRIQUE AU USA

•

30dB +30dB

TRIM

30dB +30dB

TRIM

30dB +30dB

TRIM

30dB +30dB

TRIM

30dB +30dB

TRIM

30dB +30dB

TRIM

30dB +30dB

TRIM

30dB +30dB

TRIM

BUS A

TRIM

BUS B

OUTPUTS

LOGIC I/O

MIC

REMOTE BUS

OUTPUTS

COMM PORT

MIC

POWER

INPUT

22-28V DC,

3A MAX

–

LINE

PHANTOM POWER

48V DC

–

100

–

240V

50/60Hz, 1A MAX

LISTED COMMERCIAL

AUDIO EQUIPMENT

9Z39

RECORD

LINE

SIGNAL-FLOW DIAGRAM

Channel

Meter

AUTO

ALC

(Automix)

5-Band

31-Band

ALC

Parametric

Bus A

Graphic EQ

Channel

Faders to

A & B

Analog

Input

CH 1

Analog-to-

Digital

Converter

3-Band

Mute

5-Band

Parametric

31-Band

Graphic EQ

Bus B

AUTO

(Automix)

Channels

2-8

CH 1

Direct

Output

Lo-Shelf

Hi-Shelf

Mute

Compressor

Master

Faders

A & B

Digital-to-

Analog

Converter

A & B

Outputs

Lo-Shelf

Hi-Shelf

Bus B

Inputs

Bus A

Record

Outputs

DX8 Signal-Flow Diagram

Output

Meters

DX8 – 6

3. INSTALLATION

APPLICATION DIAGRAMS

–

DX8 – 7