Matrix, Using the matrix, Ml3000 user guide – Allen&Heath ML3000 USER GUIDE User Manual
Page 33
ML3000 User Guide
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MATRIX
MIX CONTROLS Each of the 4 groups, L, R and C
can be mixed into the matrix. The source is derived
post-fader. Adjust the level clockwise from fully off
to +6dB boost. The ‘0dB’ position is marked.
EXTERNAL INPUT Each matrix has its own rear
panel input socket for adding in an external signal
such as support act console or venue
announcement system. These do not have level
trim controls.
MASTER LEVEL Adjusts the matrix output level
from fully off to a maximum boost of +6dB. The
normal ‘0’ position is marked.
ON This latching switch turns the matrix master
signal on or off. The green LED illuminates when
the signal is turned on.
AFL Press this switch to listen to the matrix signal
in the headphones or engineers monitor without
affecting the main outputs. The signal is monitored
post-level, pre-ON so that it can be checked while
the output is turned off.
Using the Matrix
The matrix provides 4 additional console outputs. It
is a ‘mixer within a mixer’ taking its source from the
groups and main mix. It can be used to provide
duplicate main outputs or to create new mixes from
the main outputs. The controls are positioned
conveniently away from the live performance
controls to avoid accidental operation.
The possibilities are endless. A few applications
are discussed below:
Distributed Speaker Systems. The traditional
application for the matrix is to feed a multi-speaker
system such as that found in theatre sound
reinforcement. Use the console L,R and C outputs
to feed the main front speakers typically hung
around the proscenium arch. Use the matrix to
provide independent mixes to the under-balcony,
centre, side and rear fill speakers.
The fill speakers should be delayed to acoustically
align the signal with the stage so keeping the
listener focussed on the source of the sound. They
would also be equalised to aid intelligibility without
distracting the listener from the source. Use the
matrix INSERT sockets to patch in the external
signal processing. This lets you check the
processed signal using the console AFL system.
You may wish to send only certain groups of sound
to the fill speakers. Use the group 1-4 controls to
create the required balance, for example just the
vocal groups to improve speech intelligibility. You
could add in a small amount of the main mix with
the LRC controls using equal amounts of L and R to
create a mono mix.
Recording and Broadcast Feeds. Use the matrix
to create feeds in mono, stereo or both. It may not
be good enough to simply tap off the main console
mix, especially in smaller venues where the
acoustic output from the band back line or orchestra
contributes to the front-of-house sound. Here, the
acoustically strong sounds such as drums, bass
and guitar may be low in the front-of-house mix.
You can compensate for this in the recording using
the matrix. Start with the main LRC mix then add
the groups to boost selected sounds.
Stereo from LCR. The matrix also lets you create
stereo feeds from a 3 output LCR mix by adding C
into both channels. Use one matrix with L+C
routed, the other with R+C to feed the left and right
recording channels.
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