442/442N User Guide and Technical Information
8
v. 5.07
Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
Input Channels
The inputs of the 442 consist of four, full-featured microphone preamplifi ers. Each channel has a wide
gain range to accommodate nearly all signal types. The 442 accepts signals ranging from low-sensitivity
dynamic and ribbon microphones to medium-level wireless and condenser mic-level outputs, and to
"hot" line-level signals.
442 input channels are transformer-balanced. The isolation characteristics of transformers are superior
to other balancing techniques for the hostile and uncontrolled environments of fi eld production.
Transformers provide galvanic isolation from the driving source, meaning there is no direct electrical
connection. Signals are "transformed" magnetically. The input transformers in the 442 use premium
magnetic core material to achieve high signal handling capability (especially at low frequencies)
while keeping distortion to a minimum. Because of their inherently high common mode impedance,
transformers are unrivaled by any other type of input for common-mode noise rejection.
The XLR input connectors of the 442 can be used with either balanced or unbalanced connections.
When unbalancing, ground pin-3 to pin-1. There is no change in gain between unbalanced and balanced
connections into the 442.
Mic/Line Level Selection
The Mic/Line switch is used to select the input level of the respective channel. The 442 has up to
84 dB of available gain from mic-input to line-output. When in the LINE position, the input channel
sensitivity is reduced by 40 dB.
Gain (trim)
Like traditional mixing consoles, the 442’s input sensitivity is set with the Gain (trim)
potentiometer. With the Channel Fader set to unity gain (0 dB or 12 o’clock), make the appropriate
adjustments with the Gain (trim) pot. Make coarse gain adjustments with the Gain (trim) pot during
setup. Once the gain is set to the desired level, recess the Gain (trim) pot to hide it from the 442’s mixing
surface.
Channel Fader
15
+
The Channel Fader is the primary level control used during mixing operation. Use the
Channel Fader to make fi ne level adjustments during operation. The fader can be attenuated from Off
(full counter-clockwise position) to +15 dB above the set Gain (Trim) level (full clockwise position).
Phantom and T- Microphone Powering
This switch selects the type of power that will be applied to the adjacent input XLR. The 442
provides both Phantom and T-power on each channel respectively. If neither Phantom or T-power are
required, for instance with dynamic microphones, it is best practice to turn Off microphone powering
(DYN position). Phantom power can capacitively couple noise into the mic inputs with poor mic cables.
The DYN (dynamic) position does not apply any voltage to the microphone input. Do not apply power
to ribbon microphones, improperly wired cables can permanently damage the microphone.
Summary of Contents for 442
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