Input Side Panel
The input section of the AlphaMix is truly impressive for the price. This 4-channel mixer
begins with standard female XLR balanced inputs. PSC has developed an
ultra low
noise input circuitry
3
in an effort to set new standards in field production equipment.
These inputs can be used at mic or line level and have an input range from -70dBu to
+4dBu. A toggle switch beneath each XLR input provide two level setting: “M” for
Microphone at 0dB attenuation; and “L” for line at 50dB attenuation.
Photo courtesy PSC
Microphone powering switches
are also located below the XLR connectors and
provide standard Dynamic (D), Tornader 12-volt (T-series/AB) and 48-volt phantom
powering. The provision for T-series phantom powering is a welcomed return to this
common format for PSC. While T-series was available on the M4A+ it was not offered
on the MKm4II. As should always be the practice, the appropriate phantom power
should be used for each mic. When using line level, dynamic mics or wireless
receivers, the Dynamic (DYN) setting should be selected as no voltage is applied.
Another milestone for PSC is featured just above input Channel 1. Introduced with the
M4mkII, the AlphaMix offers a
remote control of the boom audio level
. This affects
Channel 1 only and offers the operator the capability of riding the level of the boom
input via a remote that can be mounted on the boom pole. This feature is very useful
when attempting to mix and boom simultaneously. Although not recommended, this
scenario is a common occurrence with ENG. It is quite difficult to boom with one hand
and mix with the other. The weight of the boom mic makes this practice a challenging
task. Typically, boom placement is compromised when the stabilizing hand is removed
to manipulate the mix. To overcome this limitation, PSC has had the foresight to design
a fader remote control that will strap directly on to the boom pole
4
. This control allows
an input control range of about 25dB. An LED on the front panel indicates that the
remote control is engaged which overrides the channel gain trim pot while in use.
3
1nV per root of the Hz.
4
Setup directions are in the front panel gain control section, page (#).
