Summary of Contents for Solid State Logic Matrix 2
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www.solidstatelogic.com Matrix Owner’s Manual The Ultimate Hybrid Studio Centrepiece Matrix This is SSL.
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Solid State Logic, Oxford, England Document History 82S6MT065A December 2013 Initial Release 1.0.2 As research and development is a continual process, Solid State Logic reserves the right to change the features and specifications described herein without notice or obligation E&OE...
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Introduction Matrix. Control your Creativity. Welcome to Matrix. With the goal to bring the soul of analogue sound into the machinery of digital workflow, we designed Matrix – a seamless way to work in both worlds simultaneously. With unparalleled creative control over your DAW and analogue outboard, Matrix reconfigures your project studio around its most important element –...
Contents Contents Contents About This Manual What Else You Will need Chapter 1 – Installation and Setup Matrix Rear Panel Connections Plugging Up Your Matrix Audio Connections Data Connections Configuration of Data Connections Matrix Network Connection Examples Software Installation and Configuration System Requirements Software Installation (Mac) Software Installation (PC)
Contents Chapter 3 – Analogue Signal Flow Introduction to Focus Modes Operating Principles The Master Channel Strip The Digital Scribble Strip Total Recall LEDs The Channel Strip Channel Inputs Channel Outputs Auxiliary Sends The Centre Section Master Bus Controls Monitoring Talkback Metering Devices and Chains - Front Panel Control...
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Contents Chapter 4 – The Matrix Remote Introduction to the Matrix Remote The Projects Tab Navigating the Projects List Managing Projects Managing Titles Project and Title Notes Track Sheets The Total Recall Tab Taking a TR Snapshot Naming a TR Snapshot Deleting a TR Snapshot Recalling a TR Snapshot The Channels Tab...
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Contents Chapter 6 – DAW and CC Configuration Matrix Console Layer Selection Matrix Remote Layer Selection Assigning DAW Layers Selecting Profiles Creating Profiles Deleting Profiles Renaming Profiles Backing Up a Profile Restoring a Profile Disable Handshake Selecting the Transport Master Soft Keys DAW Control Protocols, USB Commands and Menus Soft Key Sets...
About This Manual About This Manual Whether you are an experienced studio engineer or an artist who is relatively new to the recording process, this manual will take you through the full breadth of Matrix functions. Chapter 1 guides you through the process of connecting up and integrating Matrix into your studio.
Chapter 1 - Setup Chapter 1 – Installation and Setup This chapter covers everything involved in setting up Matrix. If you have not already done so, please refer to the separate printed Installation Guide for safety information and instructions on positioning and connecting the Matrix Power supply. There are a number of ways in which Matrix can be set up to fit into your studio environment.
Chapter 1 - Setup Plugging Up Your Matrix Matrix2 includes the 5.1 Surround Monitor card assembly. This extends the EXT 1 and EXT 2 Inputs from 2 to 6 channels, thereby providing two 5.1 Inputs and additionally extends the MAIN and MINI Monitor Outputs from 2 to 6 channels (to provide 5.1 monitoring).
Chapter 1 - Setup iJack and Headphones The iJack and headphone sockets are located to the right of the transport control panel. iJack: Stereo 3.5mm jack Allows the connection of an external line level signal source (such as an iPod or MP3 player) to be switched directly to the Matrix’s monitors. Headphones: Stereo 1/4"...
Chapter 1 - Setup is used by the Matrix Remote application. Note that it may be necessary to use a separate Ethernet switch in place of an integrated firewall router switch, as some of these can not support the high data transfer rate required. The NetGear FS108 (an eight port switch) has been used successfully at SSL Begbroke.
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Chapter 1 - Setup Network Connection Configuration (Mac) System Preferences Network ‰ On the Mac, go to and click on the icon. ‰ Fill in the IP Address Subnet Mask boxes with the numbers shown opposite. Network Connection Configuration (Windows) ‰...
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Chapter 1 - Setup 2 Router (and Switch) Connection using DHCP (allows access to Internet) This connection method allows you to connect multiple devices to your home network and access the Internet at the same time. The basic principle behind this method is that your Internet router acts as a DHCP server, dynamically assigning IP addresses to all the devices on your network.
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Chapter 1 - Setup Network Connection Configuration (Mac) System Preferences Network ‰ On the Mac, go to and click on the icon. ‰ Set Configure IPv4 Using DHCP as shown here: ‰ Ensure that Matrix is set to use DHCP: Use the soft key on the console, go to the menu and make sure that...
Chapter 1 - Setup Software Installation and Configuration On the USB stick which came with Matrix you will find two programs to install. Install the program called MatrixRemote the computer from which you intend to control Matrix, and install the program called ipMIDI on any computers which have a DAW installed which you intend to use with Matrix.
Chapter 1 - Setup Matrix Remote Configuration ‰ Having completed the set-up guidelines described above, run the Matrix Remote software. In the bottom left-hand corner of the Remote window there is a Find ( ) button, along with indication regarding the current status of the connection to Matrix: When the Matrix Remote first opens, it searches for a Matrix console to control.
Chapter 1 - Setup DAW Layer Configuration Matrix can connect to up to four DAWs and software MIDI devices, though only one program can be controlled from the Matrix control surface at one time. In order to cater for setups which include multiple programs, each can be assigned its own Matrix ‘layer’.
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Chapter 1 - Setup Eventually you will personalise your Profiles. As part of the personalisation process, Profiles for other DAW packages can be created using the Pro Tools default Profile for HUI DAWs, and the Logic default Profiles for MCU DAWs (see Chapter 6). However, for now, the important thing is to make sure you assign each DAW layer the right protocol.
Chapter 1 - Setup ipMIDI Configuration The ipMIDI driver enables your DAW to send and receive MIDI control data via the network connection, and must be configured to match the requirements of Matrix before it can be used. Once the driver has been installed and you have logged back in, use the Finder to navigate to the Utilities...
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Chapter 1 - Setup Logic Pro The DAW protocol used by Logic Pro is the Mackie Control Unit (MCU) protocol. Therefore when a Logic Profile is assigned to a Matrix DAW layer, in order for Matrix to control Logic, a Mackie Control together with a Mackie Control Extender must be added to Logic Pro.
Chapter 2 - Getting Started Chapter 2 – Getting Started The aim of this chapter is to familiarise you with the basics of operating your Matrix. We will restrict ourselves to simple operations and leave more complex elements to the following chapters. You may find it helpful to complete the whole tutorial LEFT before exploring the references to more detailed parts of the manual.
Chapter 2 - Getting Started Preparing for the tutorial This tutorial assumes that you have followed the instructions in Chapter 1 (Installation and Setup), and have therefore installed and configured the Matrix Remote and ipMIDI software, set up at least one DAW layer, and made at least the following connections: One channel input (‘line in’), output (‘channel out’) and DAW return (the tutorial refers to Channel 16, but any will do).
Chapter 2 - Getting Started STEP 1: Bringing Signal into the Channel In this step, we will simply learn how to bring signal into the channel from the D-connectors on the Matrix back panel. ‰ First, ensure that the desk is in Analogue Focus mode, not DAW Focus mode, by checking that the Focus button (shown right) is lit.
Solid State Logic Matrix Chapter 2 - Getting Started STEP 2: Routing to the Main Busses Having brought signal into the channel, we will now learn how to bring it out again. We will cover more of the channel output options in Steps 4 and 7.
LEFT RIGHT Chapter 2 - Getting Started STEP 3: Hearing your Signal In this step we will set some basic monitoring using the MAIN MONITORING area of the centre section, to the right of the Master Channel. ‰ Check that the large blue pot marked MONITOR LEVEL is not turned up too high and that you have switched on your main monitors!
LEFT RIGHT Solid State Logic Matrix Chapter 2 - Getting Started STEP 4: Sending to the Auxiliary Sends SOLO Matrix has six auxiliary sends, the first two forming the Stereo Cue (CUE ST) send (which you will probably use for monitoring...
2 :: T itle LEFT RIGHT Solid State Logic Matrix STEP 5: Global Control of your DAW In this step in the tutorial we are going to concentrate on global control of the DAW, leaving in-channel controls to Step 6.
Chapter 2 - Getting Started STEP 6: Channel Control of your DAW In this step we will turn our attention to control of the DAW track. ‰ Still on the Matrix console, press the button in the channel controlling the Test track, located above Me e...
Chapter 2 - Getting Started STEP 7: Sending Signal from the Channel Direct Output Now that we can hear the signal and can control the DAW, we will return to examining the channel. In Step 2 we lifted the channel fader, which defines the signal level with which the channel is feeding the main busses, so the channel is already sending signal.
SOLO Chapter 2 - Getting Started LEFT RIGHT Solid Sta STEP 8: Setting up Artist and Control Room Headphones Misc You can control the mix your musicians hear from the ARTIST MONITOR area, located to the right of the MAIN MONITOR area, shown below.
LEFT Chapter 2 - Getting Started STEP 9: Listening Back to the DAW In this step, we will examine the options available for listening to the DAW return. First, we need to bring the DAW return into the channel: iJack iJack ‰...
Chapter 2 - Getting Started STEP 10: Selecting a Title For the final two steps in this tutorial (this tutorial goes up to eleven…), we will introduce the Projects system which allows you to manage the way in which Matrix is configured for a particular recording, using the Matrix Remote. There are six tabs in the Remote, the first of which (Projects) will be examined in this step, and the fourth of which (Insert Matrix) will be examined...
Chapter 2 - Getting Started STEP 11: Inserting Signal Processing into the Channel Most mixing desks have signal processing available in the channel. You will probably be aware by now that Matrix doesn’t, as the outboard and DAW signal processing with which Matrix is designed to work would make in- channel processing an unnecessary and costly expense.
Chapter 3 - Analogue Signal Flow Chapter 3 – Analogue Signal Flow In this chapter we will be examining the analogue side of Matrix, focusing on its extensive routing capabilities and examining the unique Matrix automation facility. We will also cover the SSL soft keys, which affect both analogue and DAW control domains.
Chapter 3 - Analogue Signal Flow The Master Channel Strip In addition to the controls within the physical channel strip, there is another section on Matrix which is used to access channel strip functions. This is the Master Channel strip which appears in the top left-hand corner of the desk’s centre section (shown right).
Chapter 3 - Analogue Signal Flow The Digital Scribble Strip The digital scribble strip that runs across the centre of the desk consists of two display rows. By default, the top row contains labels associated with the channel faders, and is therefore Focus mode dependent: In Analogue Focus mode it displays the channel names defined in the Channels tab of the Matrix Remote (switching to a momentary display of the fader value in dB when a fader...
LEFT Chapter 3 - Analogue Signal Flow The Channel Strip Channel Inputs Each channel on Matrix has two line inputs: The first input would normally be sourced from the output of a mic preamp, DI box or instrument and is labelled on the back of the desk as ‘LINE IN’.
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Chapter 3 - Analogue Signal Flow REC and MIX Busses In addition to the CHOP, the channel’s main fader can feed the record and/or mix bus. These are selected using the bus buttons at the bottom of the Master Channel which light up to indicate the presence of routing. This routing is also indicated LEFT by the lighting of the symbols at the bottom of the meter section above...
LEFT RIGHT Solid State Logic M Note that for the SuperCue function to switch between corresponding DAW sends and returns, each DAW track output must be sending to the Matrix channel which is feeding its input. * Note that you can still cycle through the options when in SuperCue.
Chapter 3 - Analogue Signal Flow FX Sends Matrix has four mono FX sends. Only two FX busses can be fed at any one time by a particular channel, using the two gain pots (which have Total Recall LEDs). By default, the sends to FX busses 1 and 2 are active.
INSERT button without anything connected to the REC INS SEND and RTN will leave Solid State Logic M the record bus silent, unless the S button is selected. Note also that if the REC INS SEND and RTN connections are not required for signal processing, pressing the S button enables the return connections to be used as a direct stereo input to the bus.
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LEFT RIGHT Solid State Logic Matrix button cycles through these options, and LEDs to the right of the button indicate which source is selected. If there is an incoming digital signal, the output will replicate its sample rate. If no digital input is detected the output sample rate will default to 48kHz –...
Chapter 3 - Analogue Signal Flow Monitoring Control Room Monitors MAIN MONITOR area of the Matrix centre section is located to the right of the Master Channel. The blue pot towards the bottom left of the area is the volume control for the main monitors, and beneath it are two buttons.
LEFT RIGHT Chapter 3 - Analogue Signal Flow Misc Artist’s Monitoring Matrix has an additional output for the artist’s headphones, which is controlled by the ARTIST MONITOR area of the centre section, to the right of the MAIN MONITOR controls. The six buttons on the left hand side select the signal which is feeding the artist’s monitoring.
SOLO LEFT RIGHT Solid State Logic Matrix Channel Meters Each channel has a pair of 12-segment meters. In DAW Focus mode, the second meter allows stereo DAW channels to be metered in the channel strip, for those HUI protocol DAWs which support this. In Analogue...
Chapter 3 - Analogue Signal Flow Devices and Chains - Front Panel Control Your 16 pieces of outboard gear that are connected to the Insert Send and Returns connections can be routed to the desired Insert Point from the front panel. Equally, any change you make in the Matrix Remote browser, will be mirrored on the Matrix itself.
Chapter 3 - Analogue Signal Flow Inserting Preset Chains CHAINS of devices you have previously saved can be inserted using the CHAINS button (see “Chapter 4 - Matrix Remote” for creating preset chains). To insert a preset CHAIN, first ensure you have pressed the CHAIN button.
Chapter 3 - Analogue Signal Flow SSL Soft Keys Soft keys are buttons which can have different functions assigned to them, depending on which soft key set is active. There are a number of Matrix settings which are accessed via the SSL set of soft keys. The soft key area of the desk is located below the counter display in the centre section, and comprises 16 buttons above and below the digital scribble MonOpt...
Chapter 3 - Analogue Signal Flow MonOpt Soft Keys menu in the SSL soft keys is used to configure the solo monitoring: MonOpt SIP and AFL By default, SOLO buttons are destructive, muting all channels not solo enabled. This means that channel sends (both CHOP’s and aux sends) sourced from the input or pre-fader signal remain unaffected by solos, but are affected when sourced post fader, along with the feeds to the busses.
Chapter 3 - Analogue Signal Flow Mon Soft Keys menu allows you to cut or solo individual monitor outputs in your 5.1 setup. By default, pressing any of the Left, buttons will cut the relevant output. Pressing the button Centre, Right, LSurr, RSurr, Sub Solo first will change the function of the buttons from Cut to Solo mode.
Chapter 3 - Analogue Signal Flow Auto Soft Keys The first three soft keys in the menu enable the Auto analogue channel levels to be controlled via MIDI Volume (CC7) messages received from a DAW or other external MIDI controller. By creating additional MIDI tracks in the MonOpt Meters Auto...
Chapter 3 - Analogue Signal Flow IP Soft Keys soft keys allow you to switch the console’s IP address between Fixed DHCP The IP address information is shown after the button. By default, Matrix uses a fixed IP address of 192.168.1.2. with the DHCP subnet mask set to 255.255.255.0.
Chapter 3 - Analogue Signal Flow Links Soft Keys Creating Links V2 software adds a powerful fader linking feature. Fader linking allows you to link 2 or more faders together in one link group. Once faders are linked, you only have to MonOpt Meters Auto...
Chapter 3 - Analogue Signal Flow Matrix Automation The MIDI Fader Method Note that the following description of the MIDI automation system presumes some knowledge of the Matrix Transport and Utility buttons, described in Chapter 5. Although Matrix does not include a stand-alone analogue automation system, the 16 analogue channels can be remote controlled via MIDI Volume messages (CC7).
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Chapter 3 - Analogue Signal Flow The above screenshot is an example of how to setup Pro Tools to run the Matrix automation system. You should create 16 midi tracks to control the 16 analogue channels of Matrix. The outputs of each midi track are set to ipMIDI port 9. The first midi track is set to ipMIDI port 9 channel 1, the second midi track is set to port 9 channel 2 and so on.
Chapter 3 - Analogue Signal Flow The A-FADA Method A-FADA (Analogue Fader Accesses DAW Automation) is an innovative approach to analogue console automation, utilising the automation system of a DAW to control the analogue channel levels. A-FADA links the DAW fader and mute data to the console’s channel level and cut functions, allowing all the workstation automation editing tools to be used on a mix that is actually taking place in the analogue domain, providing the workflow advantages of ‘in the box’...
Chapter 3 - Analogue Signal Flow Now you are ready to engage A-FADA. Press the button on the Matrix and then press the Auto button. This example presumes you want your DAW on DAW layer 1 to control Matrix’s channels. Simply press the button and your DAW faders now control Matrix’s analogue gains.
Chapter 4 - Matrix Remote Chapter 4 – The Matrix Remote In this chapter, we will examine how the Matrix configuration and session information can be controlled and managed in the Matrix Remote. For details of installing the Matrix Remote software, see Chapter 1. Introduction to the Matrix Remote There are six tabs in the Remote window: Projects...
Chapter 4 - Matrix Remote The Projects Tab Projects tab is the left-most tab in the Matrix Remote: There are three functions performed within the Projects tab. Firstly, it is where you create and manage all your Matrix Projects and Titles. Secondly, it is where you select the song Title which is loaded into the Remote and which is referred to in the Total Recall, Channels...
Chapter 4 - Matrix Remote Navigating the Projects List Folders can be listed by order of creation or in alphabetical order. Double-clicking on a folder expands it to reveal the sub- folders within it, as does clicking on the sign in front of the folder. Similarly, double-clicking on an expanded folder collapses it again, as does clicking on the sign.
Chapter 4 - Matrix Remote Managing Projects Creating a Project To create a new Project, simply press the ‘New Project’ button in the bottom left-hand corner of the window. The following window will appear asking to name the Project and the first Title. Backing Up a Project To back up a Project or export it for use in another Matrix Remote, right-click (Mac: ctrl+click) on the Project you wish to back Backup...
Chapter 4 - Matrix Remote Managing Titles Creating a Title To create a new Title, simply press the New Title button and a new Title pop-up window will appear. This will create a new Title in the currently selected Project. To create a new Title in a different Project, first open another Title in the desired Project using Open Title, then click...
Chapter 4 - Matrix Remote Renaming a Title To name a Title, select the Title which you wish to rename, and make it the Current Title. You can now edit Title name and other details in the Notes area in the right hand side of the window. Once you have finished, press Save Notes (located below the Title...
Chapter 4 - Matrix Remote Project and Title Notes Notes area on the right-hand side of the Projects tab allows you to record your own data related to a particular session, including personnel and any other information you might wish to link to that session. The top half records information related to the Project as a whole, whereas the bottom half records information related specifically to the Title currently loaded from that Project.
Chapter 4 - Matrix Remote The Total Recall Tab Total Recall tab is the second tab from the left in the Matrix Remote: This tab controls the Matrix Total Recall function, which allows you to store and recall Matrix settings used in the Current Title. All of the settings on the desk which you are likely to need to remember are stored as part of the Total Recall snapshot, as listed on Page 63.
Chapter 4 - Matrix Remote Recalling a TR Snapshot Enabling Total Recall In order to recall a snapshot of the desk’s settings, Total Recall must be Enabled. This is done by pressing the Display TR button located at the top of the button list in the right of the tab, or by pressing in the soft key menu (See Page 44).
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Chapter 4 - Matrix Remote Setting a TR Snapshot Once Total Recall has been enabled and a snapshot has been selected, ‘Setting’ the snapshot will reset all the automatically resettable switches and faders (Group 1 on the following page). Note that the console will still indicate those settings which require manual resetting (Groups 2 and 3) as was activated by the initial selection of the snapshot.
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Chapter 4 - Matrix Remote Completing a Total Recall Once the automatic resets have been set, the remaining switches and pots need to be manually reset in order for the snapshot recall to be complete. Below is a list of all the controls included within each TR group: automatic resets, manually reset switches and manually reset pots.
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Chapter 4 - Matrix Remote Copying and Swapping Data Between Channels It is possible to copy the settings of one channel onto another channel, or to swap the settings of two channels with each other. To perform either of these functions, press the Copy/Swap TR Data button to produce the following pop-up: To copy a channel’s settings to another channel, select the channel you want to copy in the left-hand...
Chapter 4 - Matrix Remote The Channels Tab Channels tab is the third tab from the left in the Matrix Remote. In this tab you can label the analogue channels on the Matrix control surface. Once again, this data is specific to the currently loaded Title. The main part of the window consists of a representation of a scribble strip: To insert a channel name, simply click the scribble strip on the channel you wish to name, delete the current text and type the new name in.
Chapter 4 - Matrix Remote Save And Load channel Names As A Preset If you would like to re-use the channel names you have already typed in another Title, you can save your current Title’s channel names as a preset. Simply press the Save Preset button, in the top-right of the Channels Tab...
Chapter 4 - Matrix Remote The Insert Matrix Tab Insert Matrix tab of is the fourth tab in the Matrix Remote. This allows you to route external signal processing to your channel insert points. See Chapter 1 for details of connecting up your external signal processing to the Insert Matrix sends and returns. Note that the Insert Matrix only routes Devices within the channel insert points, and is isolated from the bus insert points.
Chapter 4 - Matrix Remote Setting Devices as Stereo Right-clicking on a device in the list will present the option Set As Stereo. Clicking this will automatically append the letter ‘L’ to the device label you have selected and will also add a ‘R’ to the next device in the list. Setting a device as stereo means that you only have to click and drag once to move it into the Insert Matrix, as both devices are moved as one.
Chapter 4 - Matrix Remote Inserting Analogue Devices Using The Insert Matrix On the right-hand side, you have two buttons, Devices and Chains. Make sure Devices is selected and you will see your 16 analogue pieces of gear in either a red or black box. To insert a piece of analogue gear onto a particular channel, simply drag and drop (click and hold with a mouse-click) one of the devices currently available into the first available slot on your desired channel.
Chapter 4 - Matrix Remote Removing Devices Right-clicking on a device in the Insert Matrix will give you three different options: Remove selected device – Removes the selected device from the Insert Matrix and places it back into the devices list. Any devices below will shuffle up to fill empty slots.
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Chapter 4 - Matrix Remote ‘Andy Vocal 1’ is greyed out because at least one of the devices in that particular chain is already in use elsewhere in the Insert Matrix. The right-hand column shows that the device in question is the DBX 1 and it is being used on Channel 14.
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Chapter 4 - Matrix Remote Matrix noun ( pl. -trices ) 1 an environment or material in which something develops Matrix Owner’s Manual...
Chapter 5 - DAW Control Chapter 5 – DAW Control Introduction iJack iJack A wide range of DAW packages, along with associated MIDI devices such as soft synths and certain hardware instruments, can be controlled directly from Matrix’s front panel, allowing you to run sessions with significantly less reliance on a mouse and keyboard.
Chapter 5 - DAW Control Focus Modes In order to provide the analogue routing and DAW control capabilities of Matrix within a compact space, the console can operate in two ‘Focus’ modes, focusing on either the analogue or DAW control functions. These modes are simply called Analogue Focus and DAW Focus.
Bass Chapter 5 - DAW Control DAW Track Control A number of the parameters within the tracks of your DAW can be controlled using the lower section of the Matrix channel strip. The Matrix controls which can be used in this way include: The blue shaft encoder located below the digital scribble strip, called the V-Pot, The momentary switch in the centre of the blue pot, called the V-Sel, The CUT,...
Chapter 5 - DAW Control V-Pot Modes The channel V-Pots can function in a number of different ways, as controlled by the V-Pot mode keys mapped to the soft keys in the DAW Profile assigned to the current layer. Each of the default Profile contains a full set of V-Pot mode keys mapped to the default soft key set.
Chapter 5 - DAW Control SEL Key Modes The Matrix offers additional DAW control functionality via the SEL KEY area of the Matrix centre section, located above the Utility keys. Each of the SEL KEY buttons lights to indicate when it is active. There are four SEL KEY modes: In Default mode, active when no other mode is selected, the...
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Chapter 5 - DAW Control Param Mode Param mode, activated either by pressing V-Sel 16 or by pressing any of the inserts which are currently assigned, brings the parameters of the plug-in on the currently selected track insert into the plug-in editor. The plug-in parameters are accessed using V-Sels and V-Pots 9, 10, 11 and 12.
PREVIOUS NEXT buttons. Solid State Logic Ma NEXT, located to the right of PREVIOUS, takes the cursor to the timeline marker numbered one higher than that which was last selected using the PREVIOUS NEXT buttons.
Chapter 5 - DAW Control iJack iJack iJack iJack Utility Buttons Above the transport controls, there are another two rows of five buttons: BANK cursors cycle through the tracks in the DAW session 16 at a time. The CHANNEL cursors cycle through the tracks in the DAW session one at a time. Note that when using Logic, the tracks in the session may not appear on Matrix in the order that they are displayed in the ARRANGE WINDOW unless the...
Chapter 5 - DAW Control Standard Profile Soft Key Assignments Soft Key Overview In the main control section of the console is a two row LCD display with 8 switches above and below. All of these 16 ‘Soft Keys’ can be programmed to send either DAW specific MIDI commands or keyboard shortcuts. The top row can also be programmed to act as ‘Menu’...
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Chapter 5 - DAW Control The V Pot Menu The image below shows the assignments for the V-Pot Submenu. V-Pots control Pan levels (hold OPT modifier whilst moving to see value) Mute Changes push function of V-Pots between Muting sends or Pre/Post Dfault Default faders/pan positions.
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Chapter 5 - DAW Control The User 1 Menu The image below shows the assignments for the User 1 Submenu. < Tab Tabs to previous transient (providing Tab To Transient is enabled) Tab > Tabs to next transient (providing Tab To Transient is enabled) Tabs to next transient and also highlights area (providing Tab To Transient SelTab is enabled)
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Chapter 5 - DAW Control The User 3 Menu The image below shows the assignments for the User 3. Drums Opens/closes the Drum Names Submenu Bass Opens/closes the Bass Names Submenu Keys Opens/closes the Keys Names Submenu Guitar Opens/closes the Guitar Names Submenu String Opens/closes the Strings Names Submenu Vocals...
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Chapter 5 - DAW Control Transport/Utility Keys The image below shows the assignments for the Matrix’s transport/utilities section. PlayFS Play command is assigned to first footswitch connection RecFS Record command is assigned to second footswitch connection Shift Shift command (HUI) Ctrl Ctrl command (HUI) Alt command (HUI)
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Chapter 5 - DAW Control List of HUI Functions The ProTools profile contains a mixture of HUI commands and USB keyboard shortcuts. To help you see how we have renamed the commands, see the table below. BLACK Text = HUI command Text = USB keyboard shortcut DAW CMD / KBD Shortcut Softkey Label (Re-named)
Chapter 5 - DAW Control Logic Standard Profile Main Soft Key Page The image below shows the assignments for Matrix’s Standard key set. You are in the Standard key set when the User 1, User 2, User 3 and User 4 keys are not selected. Mixer Opens/Closes the Mixer AView...
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Chapter 5 - DAW Control The User 1 Submenu The following image shows the assignments for the User 1 Submenu. Snip Cuts section between locators (Arrange page) Silenc Inserts silence between locators (Arrange page) Splice Inserts snipped section at playhead (Arrange page) Repeat Repeats section between locators (Arrange page) Split...
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Chapter 5 - DAW Control List of MCU Functions The Logic profile contains a mixture of MCU commands and USB keyboard shortcuts. To help you see how we have renamed the commands, see the table below. BLACK Text = MCU command Text = USB keyboard shortcut DAW CMD / KBD Shortcut Softkey Label (Re-named)
Chapter 5 - DAW Control Nuendo Standard Profile Main Soft Key Page The image below shows the assignments for Matrix’s Standard key set. You are in the Standard key set when the User 1, User 2, User 3 and User 4 keys are not selected. AUTO Opens the Automation Submenu EDIT...
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Chapter 5 - DAW Control The Edit Submenu The following image shows the assignments for the Edit Submenu. COPY Copy selected region/event/note PASTE Paste selected region/event/note DUPL Duplicate selected region/event/note DELETE Delete selected region/event/note QUANT Quantise selected region/event/note Cut selected region/event/note Set locators to selected region/event Crossfade The Device Submenu...
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Chapter 5 - DAW Control Transport/Utility Keys The following image shows the assignments for the Transport/Utility section of Matrix. SHIFT Keyboard Shift (follow key state) CTRL Keyboard Ctrl (follow key state) CTRL A Keyboard Ctrl+A Keyboard Alt/Option (follow key state) Keyboard Escape ENTER Keyboard Enter...
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Chapter 5 - DAW Control List of MCU Functions The Cubase/Nuendo profile contains a mixture of MCU commands and USB keyboard shortcuts. To help you see how we have renamed the commands, see the table below. BLACK text = MCU command text = USB keyboard shortcut DAW CMD / KBD Shortcut Softkey Label (Re-named)
Chapter 5 - DAW Control CC (Continuous Controller) Standard Profile Snap Takes a snapshot of the current values of the Matrix faders, V-Pots and switches. Resets the Matrix faders, V-Pots and switches to the values saved in the last snapshot and sends these as MIDI Rest data to the Workstation.
Chapter 6 - DAW and CC Configuration Chapter 6 – DAW and CC Configuration iJack iJack In this chapter, we will examine how the standard DAW Profiles covered in Chapters 1 and 5 can be customised, focussing on the configuration of the four DAW control layers and associated soft keys. We will also cover the configuration of CC (Continuos Controller) layers for the control of MIDI devices.
Chapter 6 - DAW and CC Configuration Assigning DAW Layers Selecting Profiles In order to use a DAW layer, you must first load a Profile onto it. A Profile defines which control protocol (HUI, MCU or CC) is used to control the DAW or MIDI device, and also includes its own five sets of soft keys set up for a specific DAW program.
Chapter 6 - DAW and CC Configuration Creating Profiles To create a new Profile, press Edit Profiles to bring up the Profile Editor pop-up: Select the Profile which you wish to use as a starting point and press Copy. Type a name for the new Profile into the Copy Profile pop-up which appears, and press OK:...
Chapter 6 - DAW and CC Configuration Backing Up a Profile To back up a Profile or export it for use in another Matrix Remote, press Edit Profile to bring up the Profile Editor pop- up, select the Profile which you wish to back up, and press Backup. In the pop-up which appears, edit the name and destination of the file if necessary, and press Save.
Chapter 6 - DAW and CC Configuration Soft Keys The soft key area of the desk is located below the counter display in the centre section, and comprises 16 buttons above and below the digital scribble strip which runs across the whole desk: MonOpt Meters...
Chapter 6 - DAW and CC Configuration Programming Soft Keys Soft keys are programmed from the tab in the Matrix Remote: Across the middle of the tab’s window is a row of radio buttons marked Soft Key Set. These buttons select which set of soft keys is present in the lower part of the window for editing.
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Chapter 6 - DAW and CC Configuration Assigning DAW Protocol Functions To assign a HUI or MCU function to a button, select the relevant Soft Key Set in the Remote’s tab and press the button you wish to assign. The button will go yellow to indicate that it is being edited. From the drop-down menu which appears, selecting DAW CMDS produces a second drop-down which lists all the control commands available to you within the selected Profile: Select the required command from the list, and its name will appear in the appropriate part of the tab’s soft key display.
Chapter 6 - DAW and CC Configuration Assigning QWERTY Keystrokes Soft keys can be assigned single keystroke commands, or more complex combinations such as modified commands. To assign a Soft Key Set keyboard stroke, select the relevant in the tab and press the button you wish to assign. The button will go yellow to indicate that it is being edited.
Chapter 6 - DAW and CC Configuration Creating Soft Key Menus To create a menu of soft keys, select the relevant Soft Key Set in the tab and press the button in the top row which you wish to use to access the menu. The button will go yellow to indicate that it is being edited. From drop-down menu which appears, selecting Menu sets that button as a menu selector which can now be used to access a menu of eight functions using...
Chapter 6 - DAW and CC Configuration Renaming Soft Key Assignments Every time you assign a soft key in any of the ways described above, they are named automatically: DAW CMDS functions are labelled according to the function you have chosen, as listed in Appendix A; Keyboard shortcuts are named ‘USB n’...
Chapter 6 - DAW and CC Configuration Editing Transport and Utility Button Assignments In addition to the main 16 soft keys, the function of 18 other buttons and the two foot switch inputs can be edited, increasing the total number of assignable soft keys within the four layers to 380. This is likely to be useful if you are using DAW packages which do not have suitable equivalents for certain functions used in the Pro Tools, Logic or Nuendo/Cubase Profiles.
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Chapter 6 - DAW and CC Configuration Foot Switch Commands Foot Switches buttons in the middle of the Transport/Utility window allow the two momentary foot switches which can be connected to the Matrix to have any USB or listed DAW command assigned to them. Both the HUI and MCU protocols contain dedicated codes for use with foot switches which actuate the DAW transport Play and Record functions.
Chapter 6 - DAW and CC Configuration Configuring CC Layers When a CC Profile is assigned to a Matrix layer, CC messages are sent on Channel 1 of the first send port assigned to that layer. These messages can be used to control software instruments within the current DAW, using the DAW’s MIDI ‘learn’ mode to attach the Matrix controllers to instrument plug-in parameters.
Chapter 6 - DAW and CC Configuration CC Snapshots In addition to the snapshots which can be taken of the Matrix control surface via Total Recall, snapshots can also be taken of the status of the CC values which are being sent to a MIDI device from Matrix. This is done using the three assignable soft keys in DAW CMDS list of a CC layer, which are pre-assigned in the supplied CC standard Profile: Take Snapshot...
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Chapter 6 - DAW and CC Configuration Labelling CC Numbers When a CC layer is active, the display of Controller Numbers in the scribble strip can be replaced with user-created labels which identify the parameters being controlled. When a CC layer is active in the tab and the Transport/Utility soft keys are selected, the...
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Appendix A - DAW Commands Appendices Appendix A – DAW Protocol Lists Transport/Utility Function Map The chart below details the assignments of the transport and utility functions within Pro Tools, Logic and Nuendo/Cubase: Nuendo/ Key Type Pro Tools Logic Cubase Stop Stop LOOP Loop...
Appendix A - DAW Commands Command soft Key Labelling The following list details the way in which each DAW protocol command is labelled in the Matrix soft keys. Non-standard commands are asterisked (*): Pro Tools Function Soft Key Label Function Soft Key Label Mix to foreground Kpad =...
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Appendix A - DAW Commands Logic Function Soft Key Label Function Soft Key Label Track Track Touch Touch PanSur PanSur Latch Latch Trim Trim Send Send Save Save Plugin Plugin Undo Undo instr instr Group Group Flip Flip Cancel Cancel Global Global Enter...
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Appendix A - DAW Commands Nuendo Function Soft Key Label Function Soft Key Label Page Down PageDn Save Save Revert Revert Read Read Page Up PageUp Write Write Inserts Insert Project Prject FX Sends FXSend Mixer Mixer Flip Flip Sends Sends Edit Edit...
Appendix B - Technical Specifications Appendix B – Technical Specifications Performance Figures Headroom < +26dBu @ 1kHz (< 1% THD) Line In to Direct Out Frequency Response ±0dB at 20Hz, +0/–0.1dB at 20kHz, –1dB at 80kHz Noise < –89dBu 20Hz – 22kHz <...
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Appendix B - Technical Specifications Matrix Digital IO Specifications Test conditions (unless otherwise specified): Input test signal is a 1kHz sine wave; measurement bandwidth is 22Hz to 22kHz, signal level is –1dB FS. Stereo ADC Source selectable between Mix bus, Record bus and Monitor (pre level control) signals. Connections: S/PDIF (TosLink optical) and AES-3 (male XLR).
Appendix D - Environmental Specifications Appendix D – Environmental Specification Temperature Operating: 5 to 30 Deg. C Non-operating: –20 to 50 Deg. C Max. Gradient: 15 Deg. C/Hour Relative Humidity Operating: 20 to 80% Non-operating: 5 to 90% Max. wet bulb: 29 Deg.
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Appendix E - Software Updates Appendix E – Software Updates Software downloads for both the Matrix console and Matrix Remote are available from our website: www.solidstatelogic.com/support/consoles/matrix/downloads.asp We recomend that the console and remote software versions be kept in sync with one another. Remote Software Updates To update the Matrix Remote software, delete the old version and install the new version following the installation instructions in Chapter 1.
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The modular design of Matrix’s hardware allows assemblies to be replaced with the minimum amount of technical experience. The maintenance section of this manual provides detailed instructions on replacing assemblies in the console. Solid State Logic and selected distributors also offer a console repair service for both in and out of warranty repairs. Matrix...
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Appendix F - Support Support Matrix Registration We recommend that you register your Matrix console online, using the link below. Registering is free and ensures that you have access to SSL Technical Support via our on-line knowledgebase, software downloads from our website, and will also provide you with automatic email notifications regarding product updates: www.solidstatelogic.com/productregistration On-line support...
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The Factory Warranty covers the repair of defects in materials and workmanship during the warranty period. Pursuant to the Solid State Logic Terms and Conditions, under European consumer law, the purchaser has full statutory warranty rights for two years from the date of delivery of the product. The warranty is valid only in those Member States of the European Union (EU), who have adopted the applicable EU law into their national legislation, otherwise a warranty term of one year will apply.
Matrix in the future. The packaging has been purposely designed to ensure that Matrix is adequately protected. Solid State Logic cannot accept responsibility for any damage caused in transit as a result of insufficient packaging.
Appendix G - Service Appendix G – Maintenance These servicing instructions are for use by qualified service personnel only. To reduce the risk of electric shock do not perform any service unless you are qualified to do so. Disconnect all power cords before removing any panels or modules. Introduction Matrix has been designed to require a minimal amount of user calibration or adjustment and requires no regular maintenance routine.
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Solid State Logic’s manufacturing facilities, in common with all manufacturing companies, work with part numbers. If a part does not have a part number, it simply does not exist! All SSL assemblies therefore will have a part number and all assemblies will have a small white oblong label somewhere with that part number printed on it.
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Appendix G - Service Diagnosing Faults It is always sensible to check external equipment first (unless the fault is obviously within the console – such as a faulty pot or switch). Matrix spends the majority of its life in a stationary position, whereas microphones, their cables and effects devices etc. are constantly on the move, and hence are much more likely to incur damage.
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Appendix G - Service Can you hear audio on left and right monitors? If you can still only hear audio on the left main and mini monitors then the problem must be post the source selection and as you can see from the diagram must be a problem on the 629515 assembly. For the sake of this example we will assume that when you switched to an alternative source you could hear audio on both left and right monitors indicating that the problem is prior to the monitor source selection.
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Appendix G - Service Control Faults Control faults will typically result in either the corruption of display information, or the failure of encoders and switches. The majority of the console’s display and control functions are performed by the 629505X1 CPU, which is located behind the centre section meter panel.
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Appendix G - Service Power Faults The console’s power supply is externally housed and consists of a single SMPS (Switch Mode Power Supply) providing all of the console’s analogue and digital power rails. Power from the external supply is wired via the twist-lock connector on the rear of the console to the 629515X1 and two 629516X1 assemblies.
Appendix G - Service Replacing Assemblies Removal of modules while power is applied to the console will almost certainly result in component failure. Refer to the Matrix Wiring Diagram at the end of this section when reconnecting wiring looms. Incorrect connection may result in damage to one or more assemblies.
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Appendix G - Service 1 - Base Plate Removal • Remove all external connections to the console. • Place the console face down on a protective surface. • Using a #1 Pozidrive screwdriver, remove the 33 pan head Pozi screws from the large base plate, including the four central screws.
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Appendix G - Service 2 - Rear Connector Panel Removal • Either follow instruction #1 for full base plate removal or just remove the back row of base plate screws to leave the base plate in place (all of the following illustrations show the base plate removed, regardless of whether it is essential to access the assemblies concerned).
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Appendix G - Service 3 - 629940XC Fader Replacement • Remove fader knob cap from the fader to be replaced. • Loosen but do not remove the two hex screws located at the top and bottom of the fader on the front panel. •...
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Appendix G - Service 4 - 629502XA Solo and Cuts Panel Replacement • There are two 629502XA assemblies in the Matrix console, one for channels 1-8 the second for channels 9-16. Remove the knobs caps from the assembly to be removed. •...
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Appendix G - Service 5 - 629506XB Monitor Tile Replacement • Remove the master fader V-pot knob cap. • Follow instructions #1 and #2 for base plate and rear panel removal. • Disconnect all ribbon cable connections to the assembly. •...
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Appendix G - Service 6 - 41HJYLC3 Channel LCD Replacement • Follow instruction #4 for 629502XA removal to reveal the display. • Remove the three pan Pozi screws and remove the assembly. • Fit new assembly and screw in place. •...
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Appendix G - Service 8 - 41HJYLC2 Small Centre Section Replacement • Follow instruction #5 for 629506XA removal to reveal the display. • Remove the two pan Pozi screws. • Fit new assembly and screw in place. • Reassemble and test for correct operation. Matrix Owner’s Manual...
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Appendix G - Service 9 - 629507XC Motion Control • Using a 2mm Hex driver loosen the grub screw in the jog wheel and then remove. Take care not to lose the plastic washer underneath the jog wheel. • Follow instruction #1 for the removal of the base plate. •...
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Appendix G - Service 10 - 629507XD Headphone/iJack Panel Replacement • Follow instruction #9 for the removal of the 629507XA motion control panel. • Remove the ten screws securing the mounting plate to the frame. • Remove the mounting plate, unplugging loom AB from the headphone assembly as you raise the panel. •...
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Appendix G - Service 11 - 629510X1 Channel Buscard Replacement • Follow instruction #1 for base plate removal. • Unscrew the rear connector panel and slide the rear panel away from the console slightly to gain access to buscards. • Unplug the two looms crossing over the top of the channel buscard and the loom connecting to the solo and cuts panel.
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Appendix G - Service 12 - 629501X2 Channel Module Replacement • Remove the knob caps and retaining collars from the channel module to be replaced. • Follow instructions #1 and #2 for the removal of the base plate and rear panel. •...
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Appendix G - Service 13 - 629511X1 Centre Section Buscard Removal • Follow instruction #1 for removal of the base plate, unscrew and slide the rear panel backwards to gain access to buscards. • Unplug loom G from the channel buscard to allow easy access to the centre section buscard. •...
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Appendix G - Service 14 - Centre Section Module Replacement • Remove the knob caps and retaining collar from the channel module to be replaced. • Follow instruction #1 for the removal of the base plate, unscrew and slide the rear panel backwards to gain access to buscards.
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Appendix G - Service 15 - 629516X1 Router Replacement • Follow instruction #2 for removal of the rear connector panel. • Remove the connecting looms. • Using a #1 Pozi-drive screwdriver, remove two fixing screws. • Remove the retaining nuts from each of the boards D type connectors using a 5.5mm nut spinner. •...
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Appendix G - Service 16 - 629505XA CPU Replacement • Remove the SD memory card from the console. • Follow instruction #2 for removal of the rear connector panel. • Remove the 9-way D-type retaining nuts from the GPIO and XRACK/DIAG connectors on the rear panel. •...
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Appendix G - Service 17 - 629505XB Digital Interface Replacement • Follow instruction #2 for removal of the rear connector panel. • Remove the pan Pozi screws holding the 629505XB assembly in to the 629505XA CPU. • Disconnect loom P. •...
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Appendix G - Service 18 - 629515X1 Centre Section Rear Replacement • Follow instruction #2 for removal of the rear connector panel. • Remove the 9-way D-type retaining nuts from the GPIO and XRACK/DIAG connectors on the rear panel. • Remove all looms connected to the 629505XA assembly.
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Appendix G - Service 19 - 629503X1 Channel Display Replacement • Follow instruction #2 for removal of the rear connector panel. • Remove the connecting looms from the meter assembly. • Note that the 629503X1 assembly uses a picoflex connector. To remove this connector grip the connector body firmly and pull directly away from the assembly, pulling the connector at an angle may damage the plastic locating pins.
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Appendix G - Service 20 - 629512X1 C/S LCD Meters Replacement • Follow instruction #2 for removal of the rear connector panel. • Remove looms AA and Q from the meter assembly. • Note that looms AA and Q use a Picoflex connector. To remove this connector grip the connector body firmly and pull directly away from the assembly, pulling the connector at an angle may damage the plastic locating pins.
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Appendix G - Service 21 - VU Meter Replacement • Follow instruction #2 for removal of the rear connector panel. • Remove the spade connectors from the rear of the VU meters – making note of which is the positive terminal. •...
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Appendix G - Service 22 - 5.1 Surround Card Removal • Follow instruction #2 for removal of the rear connector panel. • Locate the surround card at the left end of the rear panel. • Remove the single ribbon connector from the surround card as indicated below. •...
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Appendix G - Service VU Meter calibration • Route a calibrated 0 VU source to the left Mix insert return. Alternatively, connect a level meter to the console’s Mix bus output, route a tone to the Mix bus and set the master fader to give a reading of 0 VU on the output. •...
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Appendix G - Service Signal Flow Drawings The following two pages of the Matrix Hardware Signal Flow Block Diagram depict how the various sub assemblies within Matrix interconnect and which audio functions they perform. Different coloured blocks are used to distinguish the assemblies. The number shown in the top left hand corner of each block is the partcode of the assembly.
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Appendix G - Service Matrix Internal Wiring Diagram The following diagram depicts all of the console’s internal wiring connections. Each connection on the drawing is marked with a connector name shown within italic braces, {}, which is the name found printed on the assembly’s PCB, adjacent to the connector and a loom reference which is physically labeled on each cable within the console.
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Appendix G - Service Matrix Owner’s Manual...
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