Audio Interfaces and Connections

Audio interfaces

The ASP8024 Console has been designed and developed to provide highly robust system integration interfaces, allowing worry-free system hook-up under the most demanding situations.

Inputs and outputs are implemented using advanced electronically balanced or ground-sensing topologies and are fitted with extensive RFI rejection networks. All signal interfaces are also fully protected against accidental misuse, for example by the connection of phantom-powered cables.

Pin conventions

Signal interfaces are provided on metal-shell locking XLR, TRS jack, 25-pin D-sub or optional 56-pin EDAC type connectors. XLR Pin 1 is connected to the chassis safety ground. XLR Pin 2 is designated as signal positive and Pin 3 as signal negative.

To unbalance the outputs of the ASP8024, Pin 3 should be connected to Pin 1 at the output of the console. Similarly, inputs from unbalanced sources should be connected via twin-screened cables with the Pin 3 connection tied to the screen at the unbalanced source.

Screen connections

To maintain optimum EMC performance it is important that screens are properly connected at both ends of cable runs. In this way the electromagnetic shield provided by the equipment chassis and the cable screens will be optimised to reject interference. It is recommended that only high-quality braided-screen cables are used to avoid compromising EMC performance.

Connections

The values below use Audient's published ASP8024 audio specifications where a formal maximum level is available; remaining interface values are retained from the original connection table.

Interface	Type	Connector	Impedance	Maximum level
Microphone Input	Electronically balanced	Female XLR	Input >1k5	>+21 dBu input at minimum gain
Line Input	Electronically balanced	1/4-inch TRS jack socket	Input >10k	>+30 dBu input at minimum gain
Tape Input	Electronically balanced	1/4-inch TRS jack socket	Input >10k	+20 dBu input
Stereo Inputs	Electronically balanced	1/4-inch TRS jack socket	Input >10k	+20 dBu input
Play Inputs	Electronically balanced	Female XLR	Input >10k	+20 dBu input
Insert Return	Electronically balanced	1/4-inch TRS jack socket	Input >10k	>+21 dBu input
Insert Send	Ground sensing	1/4-inch TRS jack socket	Output <75R	>+21 dBu output
Auxiliary Output	Electronically balanced	Male XLR	Output <75R	>+26 dBu output
Group Output	Electronically balanced	25-pin D-sub	Output <75R	>+26 dBu output
Stereo Mix Output	Electronically balanced	Male XLR	Output <75R	>+26 dBu output
All Monitoring Outputs	Ground sensing	Male XLR	Output <75R	>+21 dBu output