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CFX Mkii Series Owner'S Manual: 12, 16, AND 20-CHANNEL Mic/Line Mixers With Digital Effects
CFX Mkii Series Owner'S Manual: 12, 16, AND 20-CHANNEL Mic/Line Mixers With Digital Effects
OWNER’S MANUAL
12, 16, AND 20-CHANNEL
MIC/LINE MIXERS
WITH DIGITAL EFFECTS
12 CHANNEL COMPACT INTEGRATED LIVE SOUND MIXER AVIS: RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE — NE PAS OUVRIR
REPLACE WITH THE SAME TYPE FUSE AND RATING. UTILISE UN FUSIBLE DE RECHANGE DE MÊME TYPE.
DISCONNECT SUPPLY CORD BEFORE CHANGING FUSE DEBRANCHER AVANT DE REMPLACER LE FUSIBLE
MONO PLUG STEREO
PLUG
DESIGNED BY MACKOIDS IN WOODINVILLE, WA, USA • THE FOLLOWING ARE TRADEMARKS OR
REGISTERED TRADEMARKS OF MACKIE DESIGNS INC.: "MACKIE", "EMAC", AND THE "RUNNING MAN" FIGURE • PATENT PENDING • COPYRIGHT ©2004
POWER INSERT ALL THE WAY IN TO
THE "SECOND CLICK"
TIP OUT TO EFFECTS DEVICE
RING RETURN FROM EFFECTS
STEREO EFX EFX SEND TAPE TAPE MAIN INSERT MAIN OUT MAIN OUT LAMP
MIC 1 MIC 2 MIC 3 MIC 4 MIC 5 MIC 6 MIC 7 MIC 8 RETURN INPUT OUTPUT 12V 0.5A
L R
L L
1
1 L
L L
R R
2
2 R R EFX
RIGHT RIGHT 2 2 4
INSERT INSERT INSERT INSERT INSERT INSERT INSERT INSERT 10 12 R S
75Hz
UTILITY OUT AUX SEND SUB OUT SUB OUT PHONES
U 1 U 2 U 3 U 4 U 5 U 6 U 7 U 8 U
9/10 U
11/12
IC GAIN IC GAIN IC GAIN IC GAIN IC GAIN IC GAIN IC GAIN IC GAIN
M M M M M M M M
OO +15 OO +15 OO +15 OO +15 OO +15 OO +15 OO +15 OO +15 OO +15 OO +15 OO +15
5 5
U U U U U U U U U U U 10 10
2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 –15 15–
OO +15 OO +15 OO +15 OO +15 OO +15 OO +15 OO +15 OO +15 OO +15 OO +15 OO +15 63 125 250 500 1K 2K 4K 8K 16K
PRE FADER PRE FADER PRE FADER PRE FADER PRE FADER PRE FADER PRE FADER PRE FADER PRE FADER PRE FADER STEREO GRAPHIC EQ
U U U U U U U U U U U EFX
EFX EFX EFX EFX EFX EFX EFX EFX EFX EFX
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
(EXT) (EXT) (EXT) (EXT) (EXT) (EXT) (EXT) (EXT) (EXT) (EXT) (EXT)
OO +15 OO +15 OO +15 OO +15 OO +15 OO +15 OO +15 OO +15 OO +15 OO +15 OO +15 12 CHANNEL COMPACT INTEGRATED LIVE SOUND MIXER
U U U U U U U U U U
EFX EFX EFX EFX EFX EFX EFX EFX EFX EFX
2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 DIGITAL STEREO EFFECTS PROCESSOR
(INT) (INT) (INT) (INT) (INT) (INT) (INT) (INT) (INT) (INT)
PHANTOM POWER
OO +15 OO +15 OO +15 OO +15 OO +15 OO +15 OO +15 OO +15 OO +15 OO +15 CLIP EFX 2 (INT) RETURN MASTERS
48v
U EQ U EQ U EQ U EQ U EQ U EQ U EQ U EQ U EQ U EQ U U U U U
POWER STATUS
HI HI HI HI HI HI HI HI HI HI
12k 12k 12k 12k 12k 12k 12k 12k 12k 12k
LEFT RIGHT
-15 +15 -15 +15 -15 +15 -15 +15 -15 +15 -15 +15 -15 +15 -15 +15 -15 +15 -15 +15 OO +15 OO +15 OO +15 OO +15 OO +20 CLIP 22
U U U U U U U U U U EFX 1 RETURN
EFX 2 TO MAIN MIX AUX 1 AUX 2
U 10
HI HI SEND EFFECTS TO MONITOR
MID MID MID MID MID MID MID MID MID MID 7
3k 3k REVERSE DELAY 1
-15 +15 -15 +15 -15 +15 -15 +15 -15 +15 -15 +15 -15 +15 -15 +15 -15 +15 -15 +15 GATED DELAY 2 4
600 600 600 600 600 600 600 600 U U OO +20
CATHEDRAL DELAY 3
TAPE LEVEL 2
LOW LOW LG. HALL DELAY 4
150 1.5k FREQ 150 1.5k FREQ 150 1.5k FREQ 150 1.5k FREQ 150 1.5k FREQ 150 1.5k FREQ 150 1.5k FREQ 150 1.5k FREQ MID MID 0
400Hz 400Hz MD. HALL CHORUS
LG. PLATE FLANGE BREAK SWITCH 2
100 8k 100 8k 100 8k 100 8k 100 8k 100 8k 100 8k 100 8k -15 +15 -15 +15 (MUTES ALL CHANNELS)
U U U U U U U U U U MD. PLATE PHASER 4
SM. ROOM SPRING
LOW LOW LOW LOW LOW LOW LOW LOW LOW LOW ZERO 7
80Hz 80Hz 80Hz 80Hz 80Hz 80Hz 80Hz 80Hz 80Hz 80Hz NORMAL EFX NORMAL
LEVEL
OO MAX SET 10
-15 +15 -15 +15 -15 +15 -15 +15 -15 +15 -15 +15 -15 +15 -15 +15 -15 +15 -15 +15 PHONES LEVEL
20
U
PAN PAN PAN PAN PAN PAN PAN PAN PAN PAN 30
WIDE BYPASS
0 10 0 10 0dB=0dBu
REVERBS
TIME DELAYS DAMPING RUDE
OO +10
RATE CHORUS/FLANGE/PHASER DEPTH UTILITY OUT LEVEL SOLO
L R L R L R L R L R L R L R L R L R L R
STEREO
1
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9-10 11-12 SUB 1 SUB 2 SUB 3 SUB 4 STEREO
MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE MAIN
MAIN MIX
MIX
ASSIGN ASSIGN ASSIGN ASSIGN ASSIGN ASSIGN ASSIGN ASSIGN ASSIGN ASSIGN ASSIGN ASSIGN ASSIGN ASSIGN
dB dB dB dB dB dB dB dB dB dB dB dB dB dB dB
10 1-2 10 1-2 10 1-2 10 1-2 10 1-2 10 1-2 10 1-2 10 1-2 10 1-2 10 1-2 10 LEFT 10 LEFT 10 LEFT 10 LEFT 10
5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5
3-4 3-4 3-4 3-4 3-4 3-4 3-4 3-4 3-4 3-4 RIGHT RIGHT RIGHT RIGHT
U U U U U U U U U U U U U U U
5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5
10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10
20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20
30 30 30 30 30 30 30 30 30 30 30 30 30 30 30
40 SOLO 40 SOLO 40 SOLO 40 SOLO 40 SOLO 40 SOLO 40 SOLO 40 SOLO 40 SOLO 40 SOLO 40 40 40 40 40
50 PFL 50 PFL 50 PFL 50 PFL 50 PFL 50 PFL 50 PFL 50 PFL 50 PFL 50 PFL 50 50 50 50 50
60 60 60 60 60 60 60 60 60 60 60 60 60 60 60
OO OO OO OO OO OO OO OO OO OO OO OO OO OO OO
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS 13. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for
1. Read these instructions. long periods of time.
2. Keep these instructions. 14. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is
required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as
3. Heed all warnings. power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects
4. Follow all instructions. have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain
or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.
5. Do not use this apparatus near water.
15. This apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing, and no
6. Clean only with dry cloth. object filled with liquids, such as vases, shall be placed on the apparatus.
7. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the 16. This apparatus has been designed with Class-I construction and
manufacturer’s instructions. must be connected to a mains socket outlet with a protective earthing
8. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, connection (the third grounding prong).
stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat. 17. This apparatus has been equipped with an all-pole, rocker-style AC
9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type mains power switch. This switch is located on the rear panel and should
plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A remain readily accessible to the user.
grounding-type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The 18. This apparatus does not exceed the Class A/Class B (whichever is
wide blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. If the applicable) limits for radio noise emissions from digital apparatus as set
provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for out in the radio interference regulations of the Canadian Department of
replacement of the obsolete outlet. Communications.
10. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched ATTENTION — Le présent appareil numérique n’émet pas de bruits
particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they radioélectriques dépassant las limites applicables aux appareils
exit from the apparatus. numériques de class A/de class B (selon le cas) prescrites dans le
11. Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer. réglement sur le brouillage radioélectrique édicté par les ministere des
communications du Canada.
12. Use only with a cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by
the manufacturer, or sold with the apparatus. When a cart is used, use 19. Exposure to extremely high noise levels may cause permanent
caution when moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury hearing loss. Individuals vary considerably in susceptibility to noise-induced
from tip-over. hearing loss, but nearly everyone will lose some hearing if exposed to
sufficiently intense noise for a period of time. The U.S. Government’s
PORTABLE CART WARNING Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has specified the
permissible noise level exposures shown in the following chart.
Carts and stands - The
Component should be used According to OSHA, any exposure in excess of these permissible limits
only with a cart or stand could result in some hearing loss. To ensure against potentially
that is recommended by dangerous exposure to high sound pressure levels, it is recommended
the manufacturer.
A Component and cart that all persons exposed to equipment capable of producing high sound
combination should be pressure levels use hearing protectors while the equipment is in
moved with care. Quick operation. Ear plugs or protectors in the ear canals or over the ears must
stops, excessive force, and
uneven surfaces may cause be worn when operating the equipment in order to prevent permanent
the Component and cart hearing loss if exposure is in excess of the limits set forth here.
combination to overturn.
Purchased at:
Date of purchase:
4
QUICK START M
5
U
IC GAIN
+50 LEVEL
1
ZERO
-15dB +30dB
GAIN
LOW CUT +15 15+
We know you can’t wait to 100 Hz
U AUX
MASTER SEND
U AUX
10 10
5 5
get the show on the road. 1 1 0 0
STEREO GRAPHIC EQ
U U EFX
mixer is designed to set up quickly and operate EFX
1 1
(EXT)
intuitively — but please, READ THIS PAGE! OO
U
+15
(EXT)
OO +15 12 CHANNEL COMPACT INTEGRATED LIVE SOUND MIXER
EFX
LOW
SM. ROOM SPRING
ZERO
4
7
80Hz NORMAL EFX NORMAL
LEVEL
5 5 5 5 5 5
UP
7. Channel strip LOW CUT, PRE FADER, and U
3-4
U
RIGHT
U
RIGHT
U
RIGHT
U
RIGHT
U
20 20 20 20 20 20
switches up. 40
50
SOLO
PFL
40
50
40
50
40
50
40
50
40
50
60 60 60 60 60 60
APPLICATIONS DIAGRAMS
Keyboard, or other line-level input Left PA Speaker Right PA Speaker
Stereo EQ
out
out
in
in
Guitar Effects Drum
Machine
Stereo CD Player
Power Amplifier
5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 L L
L R L R
R R
1 2 3 4
SUB OUT MAIN OUT MAIN OUT MAIN TAPE TAPE
CHANNEL INPUTS 75Hz L R BAL/UNBAL INSERT OUT IN
CHANNEL INSERTS AUX SENDS EFX SENDS STEREO EFX RETURNS SUB OUTS UTIL OUT PHONES
BAL/UNBAL BAL/UNBAL
1 2 BAL/UNBAL BAL/UNBAL OUT
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 1 2 1 2 L R L R 1 2 3 4 L R
Digital Delay
Stereo
Power Amplifier
Stereo EQ
Direct Box
Stereo
Compressor
out
out
in
in
Guitar Effects
Guitar Effects
Mono
Power Amplifiers
CD Player
5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 L L
L R L R
R R
1 2 3 4
SUB OUT MAIN OUT MAIN OUT MAIN TAPE TAPE
CHANNEL INPUTS 75Hz L R BAL/UNBAL INSERT OUT IN
CHANNEL INSERTS AUX SENDS EFX SENDS STEREO EFX RETURNS SUB OUTS UTIL OUT PHONES
BAL/UNBAL BAL/UNBAL
1 2 BAL/UNBAL BAL/UNBAL OUT
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 1 2 1 2 L R L R 1 2 3 4 L R
Digital Delay
Mono EQ Mono EQ
Drum Mono
Machine Power Amplifier
Stereo
Compressor
out
out
Guitar Effects
in
in
Guitar Effects
Stereo CD Player
Power Amplifier
7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 L L
L R L R
R R
1 2 3 4 5 6
SUB OUT MAIN OUT MAIN OUT MAIN TAPE TAPE
CHANNEL INPUTS 75Hz L R BAL/UNBAL INSERT OUT IN
CHANNEL INSERTS AUX SENDS EFX SENDS STEREO EFX RETURNS SUB OUTS UTIL OUT PHONES
BAL/UNBAL BAL/UNBAL
1 2 BAL/UNBAL BAL/UNBAL OUT
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 1 2 1 2 L R L R 1 2 3 4 L R
Digital Delay
Stereo EQ Stereo EQ
Mono in / stereo out
Stereo Compressor Stereo Compressor Reverb
Stereo Stereo
Power Power
Mono EQ Amplifier Amplifier
7
PATCHBAY FEATURES
At the risk of stating the obvious, this is These unbalanced jacks are configured thusly:
where you plug everything in: microphones,
SEND to processor
line-level instruments, effects, headphones tip
ring
sleeve (TRS plug)
“tip”
1 SHIELD The CFX MKII mixer is equipped with rugged, Tip = Send (to effects device input)
3
2
COLD
low noise, phantom-powered microphone pream- Ring = Return (from effects device output)
HOT
plifiers, providing up to 50 dB of crystal-clear Sleeve = Common ground (connect shield
XLR BALANCED WIRING amplification. Their balanced circuitry rejects all to all three sleeves)
manner of extraneous interference. Professional Specialty “Y” cables, developed just for these
condenser, dynamic, and ribbon mics will all jacks, are widely available.
sound excellent through these XLR inputs. Besides being used for inserting external
You can plug in almost any kind of balanced devices, these jacks can also be used as chan-
mic that has a standard XLR-type male mic nel direct outputs; post-GAIN, post-LOW CUT,
connector. and pre-EQ. Here are three ways you can use
the channel INSERT jacks:
RING
(COLD) LINE IN
TIP
(HOT)
SLEEVE The line inputs share circuitry (but not
(SHIELD)
TRS BALANCED WIRING phantom power) with the mic preamps, and
can be driven by balanced or unbalanced MONO PLUG
sources at almost any level. You can use these Channel Insert jack
TIP
(HOT)
TRS inputs for virtually any signal you’ll come Direct out with no signal interruption.
SLEEVE
(SHIELD) across, from –25 dBu up to +38 dBu. Insert only to first “click.”
TS UNBALANCED WIRING
INSERT
This is where you connect serial effects MONO PLUG
such as compressors, equalizers, de-essers or Channel Insert jack
filters. The send is low-impedance (150 ohms),
Direct out with signal interruption.
capable of driving any line-level device. The re- Insert all the way in to the second “click.”
turn is high-impedance (10k ohms) and can be
driven by almost any device.
STEREO
PLUG
Channel Insert jack
For use as an effects loop.
(TIP = SEND to effect, RING = RETURN from effect.)
8
EFFECTS: SERIAL OR PARALLEL? MAIN OUT
Effects devices are used Coming in two flavors, XLR and TRS, the
either in serial or in parallel: main output represents the end of the mixer
“Serial” means that the chain, where your fully mixed and enhanced
entire signal is routed stereo signal enters the real world.
through the effects device. The XLR balanced outputs will add 6 dB
Examples: preamps, compressor/limiters, when connected to balanced inputs, thereby
graphic equalizers. elevating signal from the noise floor by that
“Parallel” means that a portion of the signal amount.
is tapped off to the device (usually via a mixer’s The TRS balanced outputs offer the advan-
aux send), processed and returned (usually via tage of having no 6 dB level change to deal with,
a mixer’s aux return), to be mixed with the origi- while still providing extraneous noise rejection.
nal “dry” signals. Multiple signals (via multiple
mixer channels) can all make use of the same SUBWOOFER OUT
parallel effects device. Examples: reverb, digital The CFX MKII mixer has an integrated
delay, chorus. See diagrams below. mono-summing 75 Hz 3rd-order low-pass filter.
It taps the left and right MAIN OUT sig-
Serial Device nals, mixes them into a mono signal, then
Insert Insert
Send Return removes all but the deepest bass information.
Dry Signal
Signal Processor
(e.g., Compressor) Processed
Patch this balanced XLR output to a high-pow-
Signal
ered mono-summed amp and subwoofer (or an
Parallel Device active subwoofer), and the music police will be
Aux
Send
Aux
Return
Output
Section
right over.
Signal Processor
(e.g., Reverb) Wet Signal MAIN INSERT
Mix
Stage
Processed
Signal
With nothing plugged into these jacks, the
Channel Path
Dry Signal(s) Dry Signal(s) mix signal goes from the mix amp straight
through to the MAIN MIX Faders . But when
you plug a serial device into these jacks, the mix
STEREO LINE IN leaves the mixer, goes through the device and
These balanced inputs are designed for ste- back into the mixer’s main mix faders.
reo or mono, balanced or unbalanced signals, If you want to send your main mix through a
from –20 dB to +20 dB. These TRS inputs can compressor/limiter or similar device, these are
be used with just about any professional or the jacks for you. Since the insert is before the
semipro instrument, effect or tape player. mix faders, moving the fader will not alter the
When connecting a mono device (just one signal strength sent to the compressor, thereby
cord), always use the LEFT (MONO) input and preserving its compression characteristics.
plug nothing into the RIGHT input. A trick These unbalanced jacks are configured the
called “jack normalling” will cause the signal to same as the channel strip insert jacks. See
appear on both sides. page 8 for wiring and usage information.
STEREO EFX EFX SEND TAPE TAPE MAIN INSERT MAIN OUT MAIN OUT LAMP
RETURN INPUT OUTPUT 12V 0.5A
L R
L L
1
1 L
L L
R R
2
2 R R EFX
R
(MONO) (MONO) 1 1 3
9 11 L
FOOT
LEFT LEFT SWITCH
RIGHT RIGHT 2 2 4
10 12 R S
75Hz
UTILITY OUT AUX SEND SUB OUT SUB OUT PHONES
9
UTILITY OUT EFX SEND
RING The stereo signal at these TRS jacks is the The signal at these TRS outputs is post-
(COLD)
TIP same as at the MAIN OUT , but with one fader only, so they cannot be used as
(HOT)
SLEEVE important difference: traditional stage monitor cues. They’re in-
(SHIELD)
TRS BALANCED WIRING After the MAIN MIX Fader , the mix is tended to patch into effects device inputs;
sent through the UTILITY OUT LEVEL con- hence the name “EFX.” See EFX 1 (EXT)
trol, allowing you to set levels as desired and EFX 2 (INT) for more information.
without disturbing the main mix level. Note: The EFX 2 signal path also feeds the
TIP
(HOT) CFX mixer’s internal EMAC EFFECTS PRO-
SLEEVE
(SHIELD)
SUB OUT CESSOR inputs. If you’re using EMAC and
TS UNBALANCED WIRING In live sound applications, these TRS jacks just one outboard processor, patch that proces-
can be patched into one or two stereo amplifi- sor via EFX SEND 1 for independent control of
ers, thereby allowing you to control levels the effects send level.
independently via the SUB Faders . We recommend going into a stereo reverb in
Alternatively, use the MAIN OUT to mono and returning in stereo. We have found
feed the amplifiers and one stereo SUB OUT that on most “stereo” reverbs the second input
pair to feed a recorder. just ties up an extra EFX send and adds noth-
In studio applications, these outputs can be ing to the sound. There are exceptions, so feel
used as four separate paths to feed four tracks free to try it both ways. If your effects device is
of a multitrack recorder. true stereo all the way through, use EFX SEND 1
See ASSIGN and SUB ASSIGN for to feed its left input and EFX SEND 2 to feed
more information. the right input.
AUX SEND STEREO EFX RETURN
To create a stage monitor mix, with levels Patch the outputs of external parallel ef-
set independently from the main mix, patch fects devices to these inputs.
these TRS jacks into your monitor amplifier in- Note: The EFX 2 return signal is combined
puts. These jacks can also be used to feed the with the signal from the CFX mixer’s internal
inputs of an effects device. EMAC EFFECTS PROCESSOR . If you’re
See AUX and PRE FADER for more using EMAC and just one outboard processor,
information. patch the outboard processor via EFX 1 RETURN
for independent control of the effects return level.
When connecting a mono device (just one
cord), always use the LEFT (MONO) input and
plug nothing into the RIGHT input. A trick
called “jack normalling” will cause the signal to
appear on both sides.
STEREO EFX EFX SEND TAPE TAPE MAIN INSERT MAIN OUT MAIN OUT LAMP
RETURN INPUT OUTPUT 12V 0.5A
L R
L L
1
1 L
L L
R R
2
2 R R EFX
R
(MONO) (MONO) 1 1 3
9 11 L
FOOT
LEFT LEFT SWITCH
RIGHT RIGHT 2 2 4
10 12 R S
75Hz
UTILITY OUT AUX SEND SUB OUT SUB OUT PHONES
10
TAPE INPUT EFX FOOT SWITCH
Patch the outputs of your intermission en- You can connect a normally-open foot switch
SLEEVE SLEEVE
tertainment here. Any line-level mono or stereo to this connector to duplicate the function of TIP TIP
device can be used: tape, CD player, television the BYPASS switch, located in the EMAC
audio, etc. See BREAK SWITCH for more EFFECTS PROCESSOR . Closing the switch RCA UNBALANCED WIRING
information. connection causes the EFX BYPASS indicator
When connecting a mono device (just one to light and mutes the effects.
cord), you’ll need a “Y-splitter” RCA adapter. It Note: When a foot switch is plugged into RING
(RIGHT)
turns a mono output cord into two cords; so the FOOT SWITCH jack, the BYPASS switch TIP
(LEFT)
both the left and right tape input jacks can be is disabled. SLEEVE
(SHIELD)
patched. This adapter is widely available. Just like the BYPASS switch, this TRS HEADPHONE WIRING
affects only the internal EMAC EFFECTS
TAPE OUTPUT PROCESSOR and not any device plugged into
Use these jacks to capture the entire perfor- STEREO EFX RETURN 2 . TIP
mance to tape. The signal at these jacks is the (HOT)
main mix, after the MAIN INSERT but be- LAMP SLEEVE
(GROUND)
fore the MAIN MIX Fader . The main mix This BNC-type connector will accept almost TS FOOTSWITCH WIRING
signal will be present at these jacks regardless any of the widely available 12VDC 0.5 amp
of the position of the MAIN MIX Fader. gooseneck lamps, made by Littlite® and others.
If your work involves mixing in the back of
PHONES dark theaters, this lamp will likely become
The stereo signal at these jacks is the same your best friend.
as at the MAIN OUT , but with two impor-
tant differences: AC POWER INPUT
After the MAIN MIX Fader , the mix is This IEC Socket is where you connect the
sent through the PHONES LEVEL control, supplied AC linecord to provide AC power to
allowing you to set levels as desired, without the CFX mixer. Plug the cord into a suitable
disturbing the main mix level. AC outlet, properly grounded and capable of
When a channel’s SOLO PFL is engaged, delivering adequate current.
the main mix signal at this output will be re- If you happen to lose the AC linecord,
placed by the solo signal, allowing the engineer replacements are available at any office/
to audition channels without disturbing the computer supply store.
main mix.
The stereo PHONES jack will drive any POWER SWITCH
standard headphones to very loud levels. POWER STATUS
Walkperson-type phones can also be used with The POWER switch is located on the
an appropriate adapter. rear panel, adjacent to the AC Power Input
Note: Please see the “Safety Instructions” on . Push the side of the switch labeled “ON”
page 2 for information on hearing protection. to turn the mixer on; you should see the
POWER STATUS LED glow in confirma-
tion. To turn the mixer off, push the switch the
other way. (Let’s all say a big collective “Duh.”)
CFX12
12 CHANNEL COMPACT INTEGRAT
48v
MONO PLUG
POWER STATUS
POWER INSERT ALL THE WAY IN TO
THE "SECOND CLICK"
TIP OU
RING R
With this switch engaged (down), AUX 1 and equalize subtly; use the left sides of the
–10
2 receive signals in pre-fader mode: post-low cut, knobs (cut) as well as the right (boost).
–15
20Hz 100Hz 1kHz 10kHz 20kHz
post-insert, post-EQ, post-mute, and PRE-fader. HI EQ Hi EQ
Any changes made to the channel controls,
EXCEPT the fader, will affect the AUX signal. This control provides up to 15 dB of
In pre-fader mode, you can take the boost or cut at 12 kHz and above, and it is
+15
drummer’s vocals out of the main mix by turn- also flat at the detent. Use it to add sizzle +10
ing his fader down, but since he still hears to cymbals or an overall sense of transpar- +5
himself in the monitors, he’s happy. ency or edge to keyboards, vocals, guitar, 0
and bacon frying. Turn it down a little to –5
jacks, it also feeds the inputs to the EMAC The mono channels employ a semi- –15
20 Hz 100Hz 1kHz 10kHz 20kHz
EFFECTS PROCESSOR . If you’re using parametric mid-sweep EQ. In addition to being Low EQ
EMAC and just one outboard processor, patch able to set the amount of boost, you can “aim”
the outboard processor via EFX RETURN 1. You that boost at a specific frequency; anywhere U EQ
can use EMAC and an outboard device via EFX from 100 Hz to 8 kHz. HI
12k
2; just remember that the sends (EFX 2 (INT) The stereo channels employ a 2-stage fixed-
-15 +15
, EFX 2 SEND ) and returns (TO MAIN frequency MID EQ. HI-MID is centered at 3kHz; U
MIX ) control two devices. The PRE FADER LOW-MID is centered at 400 Hz. HI
MID
3k
switch has no effect on the EFX sends; LOW EQ -15 +15
they’re always post-fader. U
This control provides up to 15 dB of boost or LOW
EQ cut at 80 Hz and below. The circuit is flat (no MID
400Hz
The CFX MKII mixer has low shelving, mid boost or cut) at the center detent position. -15
U
+15
peaking, and high shelving EQ. “Shelving” This frequency represents the punch in bass
LOW
means that the circuitry boosts or cuts all fre- drums, bass guitar, fat synth patches, and high- 80Hz
quencies past the specified frequency. For testosterone male singers. -15 +15
example, boosting the LOW EQ knob boosts When adding boost to the channel’s low EQ, PAN
simultaneously engaging the LOW CUT
FADER PAN
1-2
switch can create an audible low frequency boost
L R
INPUT GAIN LO CUT INSERT EQ MUTE
without boosting stage rumble, mic handling
3-4
clunks, and breath pops. 11-12
MUTE
"POST"
ASSIGN
SIGNAL PRE-POST
AUX 1
"PRE" SIGNAL TO AUX 1 MASTER SEND LEVEL dB
AUX 2
10 1-2
TO AUX 2 MASTER SEND LEVEL
EFX 1
“Pre vs. Post” Auxiliary TO EFX 1 MASTER SEND LEVEL Stereo Channel
EFX 2
Signal Flow Diagram TO EFX 2 MASTER SEND LEVEL
13
PAN nal. Subtle adjustment of the channels’ fader
PAN adjusts the amount of channel signal positions is the key to a finely-tuned mix.
sent, left versus right, to the SUB OUTs Typically (providing the GAIN knob is set
(and ultimately the MAIN OUTs via the correctly) the fader position will be positioned
SUB ASSIGN switches). On mono chan- somewhere between 0 dB (“U”) and –30 dB.
nels, the knob places the signal somewhere If you have a fader set all the way up, adding
between hard left and hard right. On stereo 10 dB of gain, that’s usually a sign that your GAIN
channels, it works like the balance control on knob is set too low. Conversely, if the fader is
your home stereo, by attenuating one side or set way down, your GAIN may be set too high.
the other.
With the PAN knob hard left, the signal will “U” LIKE UNITY GAIN
feed SUB 1 and SUB 3 (assuming the channel’s Mackie mixers have a “U”
ASSIGN switches are engaged). symbol on almost every level
With the PAN knob hard right, the signal control. This “U” stands for
will feed SUB 2 and SUB 4 (assuming the “unity gain,” meaning no
channel’s ASSIGN switches are engaged). change in signal level. Once
With the PAN knob set somewhere in be- you have adjusted the input signal to line-level,
tween, the signal will be shared across both you can set every control at “U” and your sig-
sides of the mix. nals will travel through the mixer at optimal
levels. What’s more, all the labels on our level
MUTE controls are measured in decibels (dB), so
When you engage a channel’s mute switch, you’ll know what you’re doing level-wise if you
EQ
U
its signal disappears from these outputs: MAIN choose to change a control’s settings.
HI
12k OUT , MAIN INSERT , SUB OUT 1-4 , SOLO PFL
-15 +15
AUX SEND 1 & 2 , EFX SEND 1 & 2
U
(including the send to the EMAC EFFECTS Engaging a channel’s SOLO switch causes
MID
PROCESSOR ). The only thing it doesn’t this dramatic turn of events: The PHONES
-15 +15
mute is the channel’s SOLO PFL switch, so and Meters , which ordinarily receive the
600
you can audition channels, via headphones, main mix signals, instead receive the SOLO
150 1.5k FREQ
without sending them to the main mix. PFL signal. PFL, being a mono signal, is sent to
100 8k both sides of the PHONES outputs and to the
U
LOW
ASSIGN LEFT meter. Additionally, the RUDE SOLO
80Hz
Used in conjunction with the PAN knob, LED flashes obnoxiously to remind you that
-15 +15
ASSIGN determines the final destination of a “you’re in solo.”
PAN
channel’s signal. Engaging ASSIGN 1-2, for in- The SOLO PFL signal is tapped before the
stance, sends that channel’s signal to the SUB channel’s MUTE and Fader controls. It
L R 1 and 2 Faders and, via their SUB ASSIGN does, however, follow GAIN , LOW CUT
switches, the MAIN MIX Fader . , and EQ settings, making it the perfect
1
1
MUTE Typically, ASSIGN 1-2 will be engaged on all tool for quick inspections of individual or mul-
ASSIGN
channels destined for the main mix. By config- tiple channels. The channel’s PAN , MUTE
dB uring SUB 1 and 2 to feed the main mix, the and Fader settings have no effect on
10 1-2
channel ASSIGN 1-2 switches become the the SOLO signal. See RUDE SOLO for
5
equivalent of being “Main Mix” switches. more information.
3-4 WARNING: Pre-fader
U Some channels can use ASSIGN 3-4 in-
stead; creating a submix for a set of channels SOLO taps the channel
5
(all the drum channels, for instance). Then, by signal before the fader .
10
configuring SUB 3 and 4 to also feed the main If you have a channel’s
20 mix, you can “ride” the SUB 3 and 4 Faders fader set well below “U”
independently of the rest of the mix. (unity gain), SOLO won’t know that and will
30
SUB Faders , SUB ASSIGN , and send a unity gain signal to the PHONES
40 SOLO
50 PFL MAIN MIX Fader will explain this further. output. That may result in a startling level
60
OO
boost in your headphones.
FADER
Although the most self-explanatory item on
a mixer, we’ll explain it anyway: The fader is
the master level control for the channel’s sig-
14
MASTER SECTION FEATURES
We hope you’ve understood, if not memo- A “+4” mixer, with a +4 dBu signal pouring
rized, the CHANNEL STRIP FEATURES you out the back, will actually display 0 dB on its
just read. If you’re still confused, please look meters. A “–10” mixer, with a –10 dBV signal
them over again before you tackle this section. trickling out, will also display 0 dB. So ... when
Don’t worry, it’s easy to swallow as long as you is 0 dB actually 0 dB? Right now!
take it a bite at a time. At the risk of creating another standard,
Mackie’s compact mixers address the need of
MAIN MIX FADER both crowds by calling things as they are: 0 dBu
As the name implies, this stereo fader con- (0.775V) at the output shows as 0 dB VU on
trols the levels of signals sent to the main the meters. What could be easier? (By the way,
outputs: XLR and TRS MAIN OUT . The the most wonderful thing about standards is
TAPE OUTPUT RCA jacks also receive the that there are so many to choose from.)
main mix, but before the MAIN MIX Fader.
Signals feeding the MAIN MIX Fader, after RUDE SOLO
passing through the STEREO GRAPHIC EQ , This infamous flashing LED (Light Emitting
include: SUB ASSIGN , MAIN INSERT , Diode) serves two purposes —- to remind you
STEREO EFX RETURN 1 and 2 (including that at least one SOLO PFL switch is en- 48v
the EMAC EFFECTS PROCESSOR ), and gaged, and to let you know that you’re mixing POWER STATUS
made up of two columns of twelve LEDs each, switch and watch the meters. 20
display the main mix, post MAIN MIX Fader If you have a channel’s STEREO
STEREO
, unless a SOLO PFL switch is engaged. fader set well below “U” MAIN
MAIN MIX
MIX
When a SOLO PFL switch is engaged, (unity gain), SOLO won’t know that and will
the meters will instead display the solo infor- send a unity gain signal to the PHONES dB
mation, at unity gain (pre channel fader ). output. That may result in a startling level 10
Why, you ask? The meters, being a tool for the boost in your headphones. 5
engineer, must display what the engineer is lis-
tening to via the PHONES output. STEREO GRAPHIC EQ U
You can get a good mix with the meter’s This equalizer, used to shape the frequency 5
peaks flashing anywhere between –20 and +10 spectrum of the main mix, is the last thing in
10
dB. Most amplifiers clip at about +10 dB, and the chain prior to the MAIN MIX Fader
some recorders aren’t so forgiving either. For and MAIN OUT XLR and TRS jacks. 20
best real-world results, try to keep your peaks Although there is no actual bypass switch 30
between “0” and “+7.” for the STEREO GRAPHIC EQ, by setting all 40
You may already be familiar the sliders to zero (center) you’ll effectively 50
60
with “+4” (+4 dBu=1.23V) remove it from the signal path. OO
STEREO GRAPHIC EQ
After the MAIN MIX Fader , the mix is
sent through this knob, allowing you to set
headphone levels as desired without disturbing
12 CHANNEL COMPACT INTEGRATED LIVE SOUND MIXER
the main mix level.
When a channel’s SOLO PFL is engaged,
the main mix will be replaced by the solo sig-
U
3. Slowly turn up the MAIN MIX Fader nal, allowing the engineer to audition channels
until feedback just begins to occur. BE without disturbing the main mix.
CAREFUL! Feedback can occur quickly The stereo PHONES jack can drive any
OO +20 C
and become very LOUD, very fast. standard headphones to very loud levels.
EFX 1 RETURN
U 4. Cut the appropriate slider until feedback Walkperson-type phones can also be used with
stops. an appropriate adapter.
Suggestions for better sound: Note: Please see the “Safety Instructions”
OO +20 • For better vocal sound, set the 125, 250, on page 2 for information on hearing protection.
TAPE LEVEL
and 16K sliders to +5.
Note: Make sure the singer is within 3 to 6 UTILITY OUT LEVEL
BREAK SWITCH
(MUTES ALL CHANNELS) inches of the microphone. No amount of After the MAIN MIX Fader , the mix is
EQ can save a wandering minstrel. sent through this knob, allowing you to set the
ZE • For more presence, set the 4K and 8K levels at the UTILITY OUT as desired with-
LEV
MAX
OO SE sliders to +5. out disturbing the main mix level.
PHONES LEVEL
U
• To warm up the overall sound, set the 2K SUB FADERS
slider to –5.
• REMEMBER, LESS IS BETTER. The typical exit for channel signals is through
one or more sub mixes. The sub mix signal is
OO +10
UTILITY OUT LEVEL TAPE LEVEL first controlled by this fader, which provides 10
dB of gain fully up, unity gain at the “U” mark,
You can adjust the incoming level of your in- and is effectively muted fully down.
termission entertainment, independent of the
SUB 1 main mix level controls, via this feature. Here’s
From here, the signal goes to two very differ-
ent locations: SUB OUT sends the sub mix
ASSIGN how: Patch the stereo device into the TAPE IN- directly out of the mixer via its TRS jacks; and
dB PUT . Put the device in play. Engage the SUB ASSIGN sends it to the MAIN MIX
10 LEFT BREAK SWITCH and set the TAPE LEVEL Fader .
5 knob as desired. Assuming the MAIN MIX
U
RIGHT Fader is set, you should hear the device. LEFT/RIGHT SUB ASSIGN
BREAK SWITCH As discussed in ASSIGN , the only way to
5
get channel outputs to the main mix is via the
10
No, when we say BREAK SWITCH, we’re not sub mixes, and this switch is the key.
asking you to break the switch, we’re offering Continuing the assumption made in ASSIGN
20
you a very handy feature. When it’s time for the , Subs 1 and 2 are the left-right stereo path
30 talent to take a break, the engineer usually from the channels to SUB Faders 1 and 2,
40 wants to stretch his legs. But walking away with SUB 1 carrying the left signal and SUB 2
50
60
from a live mixer in a crowded club can be carrying the right. Engage SUB 1 ASSIGN LEFT
OO
somewhat unnerving — what if some goon and SUB 2 ASSIGN RIGHT, and you’re done.
starts dinking around with the faders? Take a look at the block diagram on page 22 —
No problem. Just plug in your intermission it’ll explain this and more, but in hieroglyphics.
entertainment device to the TAPE INPUT
16
AUX MASTER SEND ING/DEPTH and WIDE . When you find
Aux send signals are derived by each an effect you like, jot down the parameters, then
channel’s AUX knob, mixed together, then goof around some more.
sent through this AUX MASTER SEND knob. To mute these effects, engage BYPASS
Turned fully up, it provides 15 dB of additional (or your foot switch if connected to EFX FOOT
gain, the center “U” mark is unity gain, and SWITCH ). To send these effects to the
fully down is off. stage monitor cues, turn up the EFFECTS TO
Typically, when the talent (or lack thereof) MONITOR knobs.
wants a louder monitor mix, this is the knob to FOR THE CURIOUS:
crank up — watch out for feedback! EMAC™ stands for Extended Multiply and
Accumulate, which is a proprietary 32-bit digital
EFX 1 MASTER SEND stereo processor developed by our Digital Engi-
Effects send signals are derived by each neering Group. It provides 16 preset digital
channel’s EFX 1 (EXT) knob, mixed to- effects algorithms for you to select. In addition
gether, then sent through this EFX 1 MASTER to the presets, there are two parameter con-
SEND knob. Turned fully up, it provides 15 dB trols ( ) you can adjust to change the
of additional gain, the center “U” mark is unity sound and make it unique for your particular
gain, and fully down is off. application.
Being that this controls only post-fader EFX 2 SEND
sends destined for outboard effects devices,
you’ll typically set this knob near the “U” mark This controls the signal level being sent to
and then leave it alone. the input of the EMAC module (and to the EFX MASTER SEND
SEND 2 jack). Use the EFX 2 (INT) U AUX
EFX 1 RETURN controls on the individual channels to adjust 1
Stereo signals come through the EFX 1 the amount of each channel’s signal you want OO +15
RETURN and continue on to the MAIN MIX to go to the EMAC. Leave EFX 2 SEND set at U
Fader . They contain the effects’ “wet” the center “U” position. If you find that you’re 2
signals to be mixed together with the channels’ not getting enough of the effect in the main
OO +15
“dry” original signals. Turned fully up, it pro- mix, make sure that the TO MAIN MIX
vides 15 dB of additional gain, the center “U” control is turned up at least to unity (the cen- U EFX
mark is unity gain, and fully down is off. ter detent position). It’s okay to turn up the 1
(EXT)
Being that this controls only the return sig- EFX 2 SEND some more if you need to. Just
OO +15
nals of external effects, with their levels make sure the ZERO LEVEL LED never
already determined by the channels’ EFX 1 lights more than occasionally. Read on to find
(EXT) knob, you’ll typically set this knob out why.
near the “U” mark and then leave it alone. TO MAIN MIX U
17
EMAC effects, with their levels already deter- A very dramatic effect that works well with wind
mined by the channels’ EFX 2 (EXT) knob, you’ll instruments such as flute, slow finger picking on
typically set this knob near the “U” mark and acoustic guitar, and quiet vocal group harmony
then leave it alone. and choirs. Also works well with keyboards and
drums using short decay. Decay range is adjust-
EFFECTS TO MONITOR able from 2 seconds to 10 seconds. Pre-delay set
This works just like the channel AUX at 75 ms.
knobs, but here, the source signal is the EFX 2 LG. HALL: Dense, smooth reverb with long
RETURN and the EMAC output. Typically, this tail, long pre-delay, and some early reflections.
knob is used to add effects to the stage monitors. Tails are warm with more apparent high end.
Turned fully up, it provides 15 dB of addi- Works well with vocals and electric and acoustic
tional gain, the center “U” mark is unity gain, guitar. Decay range is adjustable from 1 second
and fully down is off. to 5 seconds. Pre-delay set at 75 ms.
MD. HALL: Dense, smooth reverb with nor-
PRESET SELECT mal tail, normal pre-delay, and increased early
Rotate this detented switch to select the reflections. Tails are warm with more apparent
preset effect you want to use. high end. Works well with vocals and electric
and acoustic guitar. Decay range is adjustable
Preset Effects Descriptions from 750 ms to 2.5 seconds. Pre-delay set at 65ms.
Reverbs LG. PLATE: Good early reflections and no
The reverbs are designed to provide a wide pre-delay. Tails are normal and warm with
variety of reverb sounds for vocal and instru- strong high end for increased presence. Perfect
ment applications. In the following description, for vocals and snare. Decay range is adjustable
tail refers to the reflections that follow the initial from 1 second to 5 seconds. No pre-delay.
sound event, also referred to as decay range. MD. PLATE: Good early reflections and no
Pre-delay is the amount of time between the pre-delay. Tails are short and warm with strong
initial sound event and the first reflection. high end for increased presence. Perfect for
TIME/RATE controls the length of the tight vocals and snare. Decay range is adjust-
tail, with the shortest tail at the 0 position and able from 750 ms to 2.5 seconds. No pre-delay.
the longest tail at 10. DAMPING/DEPTH SM. ROOM: Reverb featuring very fast and
controls the damping, with the darkest tone at scattered early reflections with a short pre-delay.
0 and the brightest tone at 10. The WIDE Tails are very short and warm with normal high-
switch is very effective at increasing the stereo end imitating absorbent wall materials and
image of the reverb effect. audience. Good for tight vocal effects. Decay
REVERSE: Standard reverse reverb, simulat- range is adjustable from 250 ms to 1 second.
ing a tail-first effect Pre-delay set at 30 ms.
increasing to the original SPRING: Mimics the
note. Decay range is ad- DIGITAL STEREO EFFECTS PROCESSOR
vintage 60’s-style wet
justable from 35 ms to spring reverb effect. Tails
CLIP EFX 2 (INT) RETURN MASTERS
515 ms. No pre-delay. are normal with strong
U U U U
GATED: Standard high end and a slight wa-
gated reverb, where the ver imitating the slow
reverb tail is cut off OO +15 OO +15 +15
OO +15
OO
flutter of the mechanical
sharply after the preset EFX 2 TO MAIN MIX AUX 1 AUX 2 spring system. Very good
SEND EFFECTS TO MONITOR
decay length. Decay with acoustic guitar. De-
REVERSE DELAY 1
range is adjustable from GATED DELAY 2 cay range is adjustable
35 ms to 515 ms. No pre-
CATHEDRAL DELAY 3 from 1 second to 5 sec-
LG. HALL DELAY 4
delay. onds. No pre-delay.
MD. HALL CHORUS
CATHEDRAL: Dense, LG. PLATE FLANGE Delays
MD. PLATE PHASER
smooth reverb with very SM. ROOM SPRING There are four delays
long tail, long pre-delay, NORMAL EFX NORMAL
available with one, two,
and late reflections. Tails three, and four repeats.
are very warm with some TIME/RATE controls
WIDE BYPASS
additional high-end 0 10 0 10
the time between repeats,
REVERBS
reflections imitating the TIME DELAYS DAMPING
with the fastest repeats
RATE CHORUS/FLANGE/PHASER DEPTH
stone walls of a cathedral. at the 0 position and the
18
slowest repeats at 10. DAMPING/DEPTH able from 0.5 Hz to 20 Hz. Depth is adjustable
controls the damping, with the darkest tone at from 0% to 100%.
0 and the brightest tone at 10. Since the delay PHASER: This effect is perfect for enhanc-
effect is not stereo, it is not affected by the ing strummed acoustic guitar or electric guitar
WIDE switch. power chords. The PHASER effectively dupli-
DELAY 1: One repeat. Works best for cates the popular 70’s phase shift effect used for
slapback delay used in country and swing gui- guitar. Rate is adjustable from 0.5 Hz to 35 Hz.
tar, and for rockabilly and some country vocals. Depth is adjustable from 50% to 100%.
Delay range is adjustable from 5 ms to 524 ms.
DELAY 2: Two repeats. Provides a fuller, more TIME/RATE
dramatic effect for rock and gospel vocals, acous- If you have a reverb effect selected, this
tic guitar, and wind instruments such as flute. control adjusts how long the reverberation
Especially effective for some finger-picking styles. lasts, with 0 being a short reverb time and 10
Delay range is adjustable from 5 ms to 524 ms. being the longest.
DELAY 3: Three repeats. An excellent delay If you have a delay effect selected, this adjusts
for slow, bluesy vocals and melodic flute music. the amount of time between the original signal
This delay usually works best when the chan- and the delayed signal, with 0 being a short delay
nel EFX send is set at less than halfway. Delay time and 10 being the longest delay time.
range is adjustable from 5 ms to 524 ms. If you have a chorus, flange, or phaser effect
DELAY 4: Four repeats. This is for very dra- selected, this control adjusts the rate or speed
matic delay effects, particularly for enhancing of the modulation of the effect.
long vocal notes and dramatic instrumental
note-chopping effects. Be sure to set the chan- DAMPING/DEPTH
nel EFX send at about halfway. Delay range is If you have a reverb or delay effect selected,
adjustable from 5 ms to 524 ms. this control adjusts how fast the higher fre-
Modulation Effects quencies roll off in the reverberation or delay,
with 0 having little roll off and 10 having the
These include Chorus, Flange, and Phaser, most roll off.
and are generally used for enhancement of If you have a chorus, flange, or phaser effect
instrumental music. However, Chorus adds a selected, this control adjusts the depth of the
dramatic effect to vocals as well. The WIDE modulation of the effect.
switch is very effective at dramatically
increasing the strength and thickness of a WIDE
modulation effect. For example, using WIDE on Depending on the effect selected, this
Chorus mimics a multi-voiced chorus effect. switch adds more width or depth to the effect.
TIME/RATE controls the effect Rate, Note that it doesn’t work with the DELAY and
which is the speed of the sweeping effect. Fully PHASER effects because they are monophonic.
counter-clockwise produces the slowest sweeps
and fully clockwise produces the fastest. BYPASS
DAMPING/DEPTH controls the effect Pushing in this button causes the adjacent
depth, which is the strength of the sweeping EFX BYPASS indicator to light and mutes the
effect. Fully counter-clockwise produces the effects’ output signal. It affects only the internal
lightest sweeping effect and fully clockwise EMAC effects, not any external effects processor
produces the thickest. you may have connected to the STEREO EFX
CHORUS: Provides a soft, ethereal sweeping RETURN 2 jack.
effect. Perfect for enhancement of electric and
acoustic guitar and bass. Also adds a dramatic CLIP
effect to vocals, particularly group harmonies This indicates when the EMAC is 6 dB below
and choirs. The channel’s EFX 2 (INT) clipping. Just like the channels’ ZERO LEVEL
should be set halfway or higher. Rate is adjust- LED, this LED should only light occasion-
able from 0.5 Hz to 30 Hz. Depth is adjustable ally. If it blinks frequently, you should turn
from 0% to 100%. down EFX 2 SEND a little.
FLANGE: Creates a strong sweeping effect,
particularly effective on rock electric guitar,
lead and rhythm. The channel’s EFX 2 (INT)
should be set halfway or higher. Rate is adjust-
19
GENERAL PRECAUTIONS AND CONSIDERATIONS
NEVER bypass the AC When setting up for a show, oftentimes you
plug’s ground pin. This is are plugging into an AC power distribution sys-
dangerous! tem you know nothing about. You may even be
faced with 2-wire outlets that are missing the
third safety ground pin. It’s a good idea to have
a three-wire AC outlet tester in your toolbox so
AC Power Distribution you can check the outlets yourself to make
The majority of AC outlets encountered in sure they are wired correctly. These testers will
homes and clubs (in the U.S.) are served by a tell you if the polarity of the hot and neutral
240VAC center-tapped service entrance trans- wires is reversed and if the safety ground is dis-
former. This provides two phases of AC power connected. Don’t use an outlet if it is wired
on either side of the center tap, at 120V each. improperly! This is to protect yourself as well
If lighting is used in a show, it is preferable as your equipment.
to power the lights from one leg of the service, If you find that you must plug into a two-
and power the audio equipment from the other wire outlet, you will need to use a two-wire to
leg. This will help minimize noise from the three-wire adapter (cheater plug). These come
lights coupling into the audio (particularly if with a metal tab that you put underneath the
SCRs, or light-dimmer switches, are used). center screw that holds the AC outlet faceplate
In order to minimize ground loops, the safety in place. This center screw must be grounded.
grounds for all the outlets should be connected You can check it by connecting the adapter to
to a common (“star”) grounding point, and the the outlet and then plugging in your handy-
distance between the outlets and the common dandy AC outlet tester.
grounding point should be as short as possible.
18.4 in/467 mm
WEIGHT
17.8 lb/ Sub Output: 66 dB Effects Returns: 10kΩ, unbalanced
8.1 kg
Main Output: 76 dB
Aux Send: 71 dB
Output Impedance
Line Input to Main Output, Insert Output, Tape Output, Sub
Insert Output: 30 dB Output, and Effects Sends: 150Ω
Tape Output: 46 dB Digital Effects
Sub Output: 46 dB
Main Output: 56 dB Resolution: 16-bit, 2-channel
CFX16
WEIGHT
Aux Send: 51 dB Number of Presets: 16
21.0 lb/
22.9 in/ 582 mm
9.5 kg
Stereo Line Input to Channel Level Set LED (Sensitivity)
Tape Output: 40 dB
0 dBu (normal operating level)
Sub Output: 40 dB
Main Output: 50 dB VU Meters
Aux Send: 45 dB Main L/R
Tape Input to 12 segments:
Main Output: 30 dB Clip, +10, +7, +4, +2, 0, –2, –4, –7, –10, –20, –30
Effects Return to
CFX20 Main Output: 30 dB
WEIGHT
24.3 lb/
11.0 kg
5.0 in/127 mm Disclaimer
Since we are always striving to make our products
26.8 in/681 mm
Block Diagram
CONTROL
SUB 3
SUB 4
SUB 2
RIGHT
SOLO
SOLO
AUX 2
SUB 1
MAIN
MAIN
AUX 1
EFX 2
LEFT
EFX 1
R
SUB 1 OUT
CFX MKII Series
POWE
TOM
P HAN
BAL
GLO
+48 VDC LEFT
ASSIGN
PHANTOM POWER
SOLO RIGHT
INSERT ASSIGN
GAIN LEVEL SUB 2 OUT MAIN INSERT
SET
PAN TAPE OUT
2 LOW CUT LO MID FREQ HI MUTE LEFT
1 1-2
80 12K BREAK 2
1
3 100 Hz 63 125 250500 1K 2K 4K 8K 16K MAIN OUT
HPF LEFT LEFT
FADER ASSIGN
3
3-4
MAIN
LEVEL
TAPE IN
RIGHT LEFT
PRE-P0ST ASSIGN
AUX 1
SUB 3 OUT
SUBWOOFER
OUT
MIC/LINE IN AUX 2 2
MONO CHANNELS TAPE 1
LEVEL 75 Hz
LPF
EFX 1 3
LEFT
ASSIGN
EFX 2 TAPE IN
RIGHT
RIGHT
SOLO ASSIGN MAIN INSERT
MAIN
SUB 4 OUT LEVEL
LO MID MID HI 2
63 125 250500 1K 2K 4K 8K 16K 1
MAIN OUT
80 800 3K 12K BREAK RIGHT
LEFT 3
LEFT
ASSIGN TAPE OUT
PAN 1-2 3-4 RIGHT
LINE IN GAIN MUTE MAIN
STEREO
CHANNELS
LO MID MID HI
RIGHT
80 800 3K 12K ASSIGN
RIGHT STEREO EFX
RETURN 1 LEFT
PFL
AUX 1 SIGNAL
TO PHONES
PRE/POST
AUX 2
EFX RETURN 1
RUDE SOLO UTILITY OUT LEFT
EFX 1 STEREO EFX LIGHT
RETURN 1 RIGHT
EFX 2
UTILITY
+5 LEVEL
VDC
EFX SEND 2 STEREO EFX UTILITY OUT RIGHT
FROM EFX SOLO
RETURN 2 LEFT TO MAIN MIX OFF
EFX LEVEL SET EFX BYPASS
SOLO CONTROL SOLO
(ACTIVE LOW) ON
TIME/RATE PFL
WOODINVILLE
SIGNAL
EMAC EFX TO AUX 2 AUX SEND 1 EXIT TO LEFT
METER
DAMPING/DEPTH TO RIGHT MAIN
DSP R
AUX SEND 2 22
10
7
EFX WIDE 4
2
0
2
AUX SEND 2 4
7
10
EFX SEND 1 20
30
EFX
FOOT
SWITCH SOLO
EFX BYPASS OFF
EFX SEND 1
MACKIE SOLO CONTROL SOLO
CFX MKII SERIES (ACTIVE LOW) ON
BLOCK DIAGRAM
(#122104CJM/DF)
22
CFX MKII SERIES LIMITED WARRANTY
23
16220 Wood-Red Road NE • Woodinville, WA 98072 • USA
US and Canada: 800.898.3211
Europe, Asia, Central and South America: 425.487.4333
Middle East and Africa: 31.20.654.4000
Fax: 425.487.4337 • www.mackie.com
E-mail: sales@mackie.com