Allen&Heath ML4000 USER GUIDE - Manual (Page 37)

ML4000 User Guide 37
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 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. You may
wish to send only certain groups of sound to the fill
speakers. Use the group 1-8 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.
Managing the Matrix. Check the matrix mix using
AFL. Press the related pair together to listen in
stereo if you are using two matrix outputs as a
stereo feed. Use TB to route talkback or the
oscillator/noise generator to the matrix to test
speakers and feeds.
2-TRACK Output
The 2-track output is sourced from the main LR mix.
The factory default setting is post master LR faders.
If you want to source pre-insert, pre-fader then
replug the internal jumper links on the LR MIX
circuit board as shown below. For stereo recording
from a three channel LCR mix, or by creating a new
balance from the groups, use the MATRIX outputs
instead.
PRE-INSERT
POST-FADE
PRE-INSERT
POST-FADE
LEFT OUT
FADER
CONNECTORS
2-TRACK SOURCE
PRE-INSERT
POST-FADE
PRE-INSERT
POST-FADE
RIGHT OUT