19
4 Hookup
4.1
Front-Panel Connections
NSB-Series Stageboxes
Owner’s Manual
4
Hookup
4.1
Front-Panel Connections
Mic/Line Inputs. The inputs on your NSB-Stagebox can also accept mic- or line-level
signals. These inputs use TRS-XLR combo jacks that can accept both XLR and
balanced or unbalanced 1/4” cables.
The XLR inputs provide access to the onboard PreSonus XMAX microphone
preamplifiers, for use with all types of microphones. The XMAX preamp features
a Class A input buffer circuit, followed by a dual-servo gain stage. This results
in exceptionally low noise, and a wide range of gain, allowing you to boost
signals significantly, without introducing unwanted background noise.
The ¼-inch TRS connectors bypass the gain stage and are scaled to accept
line-level signals up to +18 dBFS. Use these inputs for any line-level device.
Power User Tip:
When the line inputs are engaged, the microphone preamp circuit is
bypassed completely, and no trim control is available. Typical examples of line-level
connections are synthesizer outputs, signal processors, and stand-alone mic preamps
and channel strips. Use the output level control on your line-level device to adjust its level.
Note:
As with many audio devices, plugging a microphone or line-level device, or
enabling/disabling phantom power can create a momentary noise spike in the audio
output. It is highly recommended that you mute or turn down a channel’s fader before
changing connections or toggling phantom power on or off.
Phantom Power Indication. The NSB provides individually-switchable 48V phantom
power for each microphone input. The red LED next to each input indicates whether
or not Phantom Power has been enabled for the corresponding mic preamp.
Whichever mixer has preamp control permissions, also controls the Phantom Power
for each input.
WARNING: Phantom power is required for condenser microphones and
certain other specialty microphones that contain active preamp circuitry.
However, applying phantom power to mics that don’t require power can damage
them (especially ribbon mics). Switch phantom power off for all channels where it is
not required.
XLR connector wiring for phantom power:
Pin 1
= GND
Pin 2
= +48V
Pin 3
= +48V
Line Out. These balanced XLR line outputs are to connect external devices like
powered floor monitors, amplifiers, etc.
Mute All. This button mutes every input and output on your NSB. Use this button to
quickly silence your NSB while making connections or disconnecting equipment to
avoid volume spikes in your system.
Power Network. This LED displays power and network connectivity. When the LED is
red, no network is available. When it is blue, the NSB stage box is connected to an
AVB network.
