7
TALKBACK & INTERCOM
The SR40•8’s extensive talkback section allows the engineer to speak into several
outputs via a master talkback switch, with assignment switches for aux 1-4, aux 5-8, L/R
mix, an external talkback output, and one switch for each matrix (A-D). Talkback
microphones are patched into either of the two phantom powered XLR inputs and
regulated by a level control. Additionally, the talkback signal may be replaced by a
400Hz sine wave for checking levels, or pink noise for quickly checking frequency
response.
The Clear-Com
Intercom System is already standard equipment in most large facilities.
It allows all crew members to share a “party line,” so they may communicate at will,
without having to toggle between send and receive. The Mackie SR40•8 takes that a
step farther by allowing the engineer to join in at his/her discretion using the talkback
microphone and phones outputs: No separate intercom headset is required for the
engineer.
ULTRA MUTE
Almost every signal path in the SR40•8 has an electronically-controlled mute switch,
including the channels, main aux return, subgroups, aux sends, and matrices. These
mutes may be activated in four ways: By pressing the local mute switch included for
each path, by assigning paths to a mute group, by assigning paths to a mute snapshot,
or by external MIDI and RS232 commands. Using just the local switches and mute
groups, an engineer can quickly mute or un-mute large groups of signal paths. Using an
external sequencer to generate MIDI muting commands, complicated muting moves
can be made automatically, with no user intervention.
When a channel or main aux return is muted, the entire channel is muted, including the
assign outputs, pre- and post-fader aux sends, and direct out. The insert send remains
active, as do the channel’s PFL meters and PFL solo outputs.
SWITCH POSITIONS
You may have noticed the white lines printed just above most of the push-button
switches on your SR40•8. We’ve put them there to make it easier for you to see if the
switch is engaged (down). Here’s how they work:
Assuming you are sitting in front of the console, when a switch is disengaged (up), its
button hides the white line from your field of vision. When you engage the switch, the
line suddenly appears. Although it may not seem obvious at first, you’ll soon find that
the indicator line really helps you determine switch positions at a glance. Clever, ain’t
it?
