Mastering the art of routing the Behringer MDX2600 compressor is a pivotal step for any audio engineer or producer seeking to elevate their sound engineering skills. This powerful tool offers a plethora of routing possibilities, allowing you to customize your audio processing workflow and achieve unparalleled dynamics control. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned professional, understanding the ins and outs of MDX2600 routing is essential for unlocking its full potential, allowing you to sculpt your audio to perfection.
To embark on this sonic adventure, let’s begin by exploring the MDX2600’s input and output sections. The unit boasts two analog XLR inputs and two TRS inputs, providing ample options for connecting various audio sources. Once your signals are patched in, you have the flexibility to route them to either the internal or external sidechain sections. This versatility enables you to process your audio dynamically based on a separate signal, opening up a world of creative possibilities for ducking, compression, and gating.
Next, let’s delve into the heart of the MDX2600’s routing options: the internal and external sidechains. The internal sidechain allows you to use the audio signal from one channel to control the compression of another, creating intricate ducking effects or parallel compression techniques. Alternatively, the external sidechain input lets you utilize an external signal to trigger the compression, granting you even greater control over your dynamics. This feature is invaluable for precision ducking, where you can blend in audio elements seamlessly and dynamically.
Connecting Cables and Power
Step 1: Connecting the Audio Cables
The Beringher MDX2600 Compressor/Limiter/Expander is equipped with a comprehensive array of connectivity options, allowing for flexible integration into various audio systems.
Begin by connecting the audio input and output cables. The unit features both XLR and TRS (1/4-inch) connectors for balanced audio signals. Balanced connections are preferred for their ability to reduce noise and interference in long cable runs.
For balanced connections, use XLR or TRS cables to connect the following ports:
| Input | Output |
|---|---|
| XLR or TRS (Left) | XLR or TRS (Left) |
| XLR or TRS (Right) | XLR or TRS (Right) |
For unbalanced connections, use TRS cables to connect the following ports:
| Input | Output |
|---|---|
| TRS (Tip = Left) | TRS (Tip = Left) |
| TRS (Ring = Right) | TRS (Ring = Right) |
Ensure that the cables are securely connected to prevent any signal loss or interference.
Step 2: Connecting the Power Supply
The MDX2600 requires an external power supply to operate. Use the included power cord to connect the unit to a standard AC power outlet.
Ensure that the power outlet provides the correct voltage and frequency for your region. The unit supports a wide range of voltages, typically from 100V to 240V AC at 50Hz/60Hz.
Once the audio cables and power supply are connected, the MDX2600 is ready to be powered on and configured for use.
Routing Audio Inputs
The Beringher MDX2600 can accept up to eight analog audio inputs and two digital audio inputs. The analog inputs are located on the rear panel of the unit, while the digital inputs are located on the front panel.
Routing Analog Audio Inputs
The analog audio inputs are divided into two groups of four inputs each. The first group of inputs is labeled “1-4” and the second group is labeled “5-8.” Each input has a corresponding gain control knob and a clip indicator LED.
To route an audio signal to the MDX2600, connect the signal to the appropriate analog input using a standard XLR or TRS cable. The gain control knob can then be used to adjust the level of the signal. The clip indicator LED will light up if the signal level is too high and is in danger of clipping.
The MDX2600 also has a number of built-in routing options that can be used to configure the input signals. The “Input Mix” section allows you to mix the signals from the eight analog inputs and the two digital inputs. The “Aux Sends” section allows you to send the signals from the analog inputs to the four auxiliary outputs. The “Subgroup” section allows you to group the signals from the analog inputs into four subgroups.
| Input | Type | Gain Control | Clip Indicator |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | XLR | Yes | Yes |
| 2 | TRS | Yes | Yes |
| 3 | XLR | Yes | Yes |
| 4 | TRS | Yes | Yes |
| 5 | XLR | Yes | Yes |
| 6 | TRS | Yes | Yes |
| 7 | XLR | Yes | Yes |
| 8 | TRS | Yes | Yes |
Configuring Output Sends
1. Configure Outputs for Sends
First, set up your desired outputs for sends. To do this, assign each output to the corresponding send bus. On the MDX2600, you can use the [SEND] buttons located in the output section.
2. Adjusting Send Levels
Control the send levels by using the [SEND] knobs. These knobs adjust the level of signal sent from the corresponding channel to the assigned send bus. You can use this to create custom send mixes for effects, monitors, or any other purpose.
3. Advanced Send Routing Options
Subsection 3: Customizing Send Paths
The MDX2600 offers advanced routing options for sends. You can select different source tracks for each send bus, allowing for flexible mixing and effects processing. Here’s how to customize send paths:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| a) | Select a send bus using the [SEND] buttons. |
| b) | Press the [SOURCE] button corresponding to the desired channel. |
| c) | Repeat steps a) and b) for each send bus you want to customize. |
Setting Up Equalization
Equalization is a crucial aspect of audio engineering, allowing you to shape the frequency response of your audio signal to achieve the desired sound. The Beringher MDX2600 offers extensive equalization capabilities, providing you with the tools to adjust the tonal balance, enhance specific frequencies, and eliminate unwanted resonances.
Understanding the Equalizer Section
The MDX2600 features a four-band parametric equalizer, giving you precise control over the audio spectrum. Each band has three adjustable parameters: frequency, gain, and Q-factor (bandwidth).
Setting the Frequency
Use the frequency knob to select the center frequency of each band. This determines which frequencies are affected by the equalization. If you want to boost or cut a specific frequency range, set the frequency knob to the corresponding value.
Adjusting the Gain
The gain knob controls the amplitude of the selected frequency band, allowing you to boost or cut the level of the frequencies within that band. A positive gain value amplifies the frequencies, while a negative value attenuates them.
Narrowing the Bandwidth
The Q-factor knob determines the width of the frequency band that is affected by the equalization. A high Q-factor results in a narrow bandwidth, allowing you to target specific frequencies with greater precision. A low Q-factor creates a wider bandwidth, affecting a broader range of frequencies.
| Q-Factor | Bandwidth | Effect |
|—|—|—|
| 0.5 | Wide | Gentle, broad-brush adjustments |
| 1.0 | Medium | Moderate, focused adjustments |
| 1.5 | Narrow | Precise, surgical adjustments |
Utilizing Dynamics Processing
Introduction
Dynamics processing allows you to control the volume range of your signals, ensuring they remain within an optimal range. With the Behringer MDX2600, you have access to a comprehensive suite of dynamics processing tools.
Compressor
The MDX2600 features a VCA-based compressor that reduces the gain of signals that exceed a specified threshold.
**Parameters:**
- Threshold: Sets the signal level at which compression begins.
- Ratio: Controls the amount of gain reduction applied to signals above the threshold.
- Attack: Determines the time it takes for the compressor to activate when the threshold is exceeded.
- Release: Sets the time it takes for the compressor to release gain reduction after the signal falls below the threshold.
Limiter
The limiter is a more extreme form of compression that prevents signals from exceeding a specified peak level.
**Parameters:**
- Threshold: Sets the peak level at which limiting begins.
- Attack: Controls the speed at which the limiter activates when the threshold is exceeded.
- Release: Determines the time it takes for the limiter to release gain reduction after the signal falls below the threshold.
Gate
The gate is a noise-reduction tool that silences signals below a specified threshold.
**Parameters:**
- Threshold: Sets the signal level at which the gate opens.
- Attack: Controls the speed at which the gate opens when the threshold is exceeded.
- Release: Determines the time it takes for the gate to close after the signal falls below the threshold.
Expander
The expander is similar to a gate, but it increases the gain of signals below a specified threshold.
**Parameters:**
- Threshold: Sets the signal level at which the expander begins operating.
- Ratio: Controls the amount of gain increase applied to signals below the threshold.
- Attack: Determines the time it takes for the expander to activate when the threshold is reached.
- Release: Sets the time it takes for the expander to release gain boost after the signal exceeds the threshold.
Side Chain Filtering
The MDX2600 allows you to filter the audio signal used to trigger the dynamics processing. This can be used to create more focused and precise effects.
**Parameters:**
- High-pass Filter: Removes low frequencies from the side chain signal, preventing them from triggering the dynamics processing.
- Low-pass Filter: Removes high frequencies from the side chain signal, preventing them from triggering the dynamics processing.
Employing Envelope Followers
Envelope followers are a crucial tool for extracting the dynamic information of an audio signal. They derive a control voltage from the amplitude of the audio, enabling modulation of various sound parameters in real time. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how envelope followers work on the Behringer MDX2600:
Selecting Envelope Follower Mode
The MDX2600 offers three envelope follower modes: Fast, Normal, and Slow. These modes determine the time constant of the envelope follower, affecting how quickly or slowly it responds to changes in the audio signal.
Adjusting Decay Time
The decay time knob sets the time it takes for the control voltage to decay after the audio signal fades out. A shorter decay time corresponds to a faster response, while a longer decay time provides a smoother transition.
Filter Type Selection
The MDX2600 allows you to choose between a low-pass or high-pass filter for the envelope follower. The low-pass filter smooths out the control voltage, whereas the high-pass filter enhances its transient response.
Amplitude Sensitivity
The sensitivity knob adjusts the amplitude sensitivity of the envelope follower. Lower sensitivity settings require a stronger audio signal to trigger the control voltage, while higher sensitivity settings respond to softer signals.
Envelope Inversion
The invert button reverses the polarity of the control voltage, causing the envelope follower to invert the audio signal’s dynamic range. This allows for creative modulation effects such as reverse volume swells.
External Control
The MDX2600 features an external control input that accepts an external voltage signal to control the envelope follower’s response. This allows for precise modulation using external sources like LFOs or sequencers.
| Mode | Decay Time | Filter Type | Sensitivity | Envelope Inversion | External Control |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fast, Normal, Slow | Adjustable knob | Low-pass/High-pass | Adjustable knob | Invert button | External control input |
Assigning MIDI Control
To assign MIDI control to a parameter on the MDX2600, follow these steps:
1. Select the parameter you want to control.
This can be done by using the parameter’s encoder knob or by selecting it from the parameter list on the display.
2. Press the “MIDI” button.
This will enter the MIDI assignment mode.
3. Move the parameter to the desired value.
This will set the MIDI control value for the selected parameter.
4. Press the “MIDI” button again to exit the MIDI assignment mode.
5. Repeat steps 1-4 for each parameter you want to control via MIDI.
6. Save your settings to a MIDI preset.
This will allow you to recall your MIDI assignments later.
7. Advanced MIDI Assignment Options
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| MIDI Channel | Selects the MIDI channel that will control the parameter. |
| MIDI CC Number | Selects the MIDI CC number that will control the parameter. |
| MIDI Range | Sets the range of values that the MIDI CC can control. |
| MIDI Curve | Adjusts the shape of the response curve for the MIDI CC. |
Integrating Effects
The MDX2600 allows for seamless integration of external effects units through its built-in send/return loop. This loop provides a dedicated path for routing audio from a channel or the main mix to an external effects processor and back into the mixer.
To utilize the send/return loop, follow these steps:
- Connect the output of your external effects unit to the “Send” jack of the corresponding channel or group.
- Connect the input of your external effects unit to the “Return” jack of the corresponding channel or group.
- Adjust the “Send” knob to control the amount of signal sent to the external effects unit.
- Adjust the “Return” knob to control the level of the returned signal.
The MDX2600 also offers a global send/return loop called the “AUX” loop. This loop can be used to send audio from the main mix or any combination of channels to an external effects unit. The AUX loop is particularly useful for adding reverb, delay, or other global effects to the entire mix.
| Send/Return Loop | Description |
|---|---|
| Channel/Group Send/Return | Dedicated loop for individual channels or groups. |
| Global AUX Send/Return | Loop for adding effects to the entire mix. |
Storing and Recalling Presets
Accessing the Preset Menu
To access the preset menu, press the “Preset” button on the MDX2600. The display will show a list of the current presets.
Storing Presets
To store a preset, press the “Store” button. The display will prompt you to enter a name for the preset. Once you have entered a name, press the “Enter” button. The preset will be stored in the current preset bank.
Recalling Presets
To recall a preset, use the up and down arrows to navigate through the list of presets. When you find the preset you want to recall, press the “Enter” button. The preset will be loaded into the MDX2600.
Preset Banks
The MDX2600 имеет 100 preset banks. Each bank can store up to 100 presets. To access a different preset bank, press the “Bank” button. The display will show a list of the available preset banks.
Importing and Exporting Presets
You can import and export presets to and from your computer using a USB flash drive. To do this, press the “USB” button on the MDX2600. The display will show a list of the presets on the USB flash drive. To import a preset, select it from the list and press the “Enter” button. To export a preset, select it from the list and press the “Store” button.
Using the Auto Save Function
The MDX2600 has an auto save function that automatically saves the current preset when you make any changes. To enable the auto save function, press the “Settings” button and select the “Auto Save” option. The auto save function can be set to save the current preset every 1, 5, or 10 minutes.
Creating a Default Preset
You can create a default preset that will be loaded every time you turn on the MDX2600. To do this, press the “Settings” button and select the “Default Preset” option. Choose the preset you want to use as the default preset and press the “Enter” button.
Preset List:
| Bank | Preset Name |
|---|---|
| 1 | Default |
| 2 | Clean Guitar |
| 3 | Overdrive |
| 4 | Distortion |
| 5 | Metal |
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If you encounter any issues with routing your Beringher MDX2600, follow these troubleshooting steps:
1. Check Power and Connections
Ensure that the MDX2600 is powered on and connected to the desired input and output devices.
2. Verify Signal Flow
Check the signal path to ensure that the audio is entering and exiting the MDX2600 correctly.
3. Adjust Input Levels
Set the input levels on the MDX2600 to prevent clipping or distortion.
4. Set Threshold and Ratio
Adjust the threshold and ratio settings on the compressor to optimize compression.
5. Engage Bypass
Use the bypass button to compare the processed signal to the unprocessed signal.
6. Noise Gating
Configure the noise gate settings to reduce unwanted noise.
7. Update Firmware
Check for and install any available firmware updates to address potential bugs.
8. Factory Reset
Reset the MDX2600 to its factory settings if troubleshooting fails to resolve the issue.
9. Contact Support
If the issue persists after following the above steps, contact Beringher technical support.
10. Specific Troubleshooting Scenarios
Refer to the following table for additional troubleshooting guidance based on specific scenarios:
| Issue | Possible Causes | Solutions |
|---|---|---|
| No sound | – Power not turned on – Incorrect connections – Muted input or output |
– Check power and connections – Ensure inputs and outputs are not muted – Adjust input and output levels |
| Distortion | – Input levels too high – Incorrect compression settings |
– Reduce input levels – Adjust threshold and ratio settings |
| Noise | – Noise gate not engaged – Excessive gain |
– Engage noise gate – Reduce input levels |
How to Rout Beringher MDX2600
The Beringher MDX2600 is a powerful 2-channel compressor/limiter/expander that can be used to enhance the sound of live recordings, mixes, and mastering projects. To route the MDX2600, follow these steps:
- Connect the left and right audio inputs on the MDX2600 to the corresponding outputs on your audio source. This could be a mixer, a computer audio interface, or another audio device.
- Connect the left and right audio outputs on the MDX2600 to the corresponding inputs on your recording device or PA system.
- Power on the MDX2600 and adjust the input gain controls to set the input level of the audio signal.
- Use the compression, limiting, and expansion controls to adjust the dynamic range of the audio signal as desired. Refer to the MDX2600 user manual for more information on these controls.
Once the MDX2600 is routed and configured, you can use it to improve the sound of your audio recordings and mixes. By carefully adjusting the compression, limiting, and expansion controls, you can achieve a variety of effects, from subtle dynamic enhancement to aggressive distortion. With its powerful features and wide range of adjustments, the MDX2600 is a versatile tool that can be used to improve the sound of any audio production.
People also ask about How to Rout Beringher MDX2600
Do I need to use a sidechain compressor with the Beringher MDX2600?
No, you do not need to use a sidechain compressor with the Beringher MDX2600. However, using a sidechain compressor can give you more control over the dynamics of your audio signal. By sending a separate audio signal to the sidechain input, you can trigger the compressor based on the level of that signal. This can be useful for ducking one audio signal (such as a vocal) whenever another audio signal (such as a bass guitar) is playing.
What are the different compression modes on the Beringher MDX2600?
The Beringher MDX2600 has three different compression modes: Compress, Limit, and Expander. Compress mode is the most basic compression mode, and it simply reduces the gain of the input signal by a specified amount. Limit mode is similar to Compress mode, but it also includes a hard limiter that prevents the output signal from exceeding a specified level. Expander mode is the opposite of Compress mode, and it increases the gain of the input signal by a specified amount.
How do I use the expander on the Beringher MDX2600?
To use the expander on the Beringher MDX2600, set the Expander switch to the On position. Then, use the Threshold and Range controls to adjust the expander’s settings. The Threshold control sets the input signal level at which the expander will start to reduce the gain. The Range control sets the amount of gain reduction that will be applied to the input signal when it falls below the Threshold.
