Behringer Composer Pro-XL MDX2600 User Manual

1. Introduction

The Behringer Composer Pro-XL MDX2600 is a versatile 2-channel audio dynamics processor designed for studio and live sound applications. It combines an expander/gate, compressor/limiter, peak limiter, integrated de-esser, dynamic enhancer, and tube simulation, offering comprehensive control over audio signals. This manual provides instructions for its setup, operation, and maintenance.

2. Key Features

• Integrated de-esser with switchable male/female voice recognition for sibilance reduction.
• Interactive Gain Control (IGC) peak limiting circuitry for reliable and inaudible protection against signal peaks.
• Switchable tube simulation for added warmth and transparency.
• Automatically or manually adjustable attack and release times for compression.
• Stereo couple function with independent output level settings for linked operation.

3. Front Panel Controls and Indicators

The front panel provides access to all operational controls and visual feedback for each of the two independent channels.

Figure 3.1: Front Panel Overview of the MDX2600. This image displays the Expander/Gate, Compressor/Limiter, De-Esser, Peak Limiter, and other controls for both channels, along with LED meters for gain reduction, input/output levels, and de-esser levels.

3.1. Expander/Gate Section

• THRESHOLD: Adjusts the level below which the gate or expander becomes active.
• RELEASE: Controls how quickly the gate opens after the signal falls below the threshold.
• KEY: Activates the external sidechain input for the gate.
• SC ENABLE: Engages the sidechain filter for frequency-dependent gating.
• SC MONITOR: Allows monitoring of the sidechain signal.

3.2. Compressor/Limiter Section

• THRESHOLD: Sets the level at which compression begins.
• RATIO: Determines the amount of compression applied once the threshold is exceeded.
• ATTACK: Controls how quickly the compressor reacts to signals exceeding the threshold.
• RELEASE: Controls how quickly the compressor returns to its normal state after the signal falls below the threshold. Can be set to AUTO for automatic adjustment.
• OUTPUT: Adjusts the overall output level of the compressed signal.
• IGC (Interactive Gain Control): Engages the intelligent peak limiting circuit.
• TUBE SIMULATION: Activates the tube emulation circuit for harmonic enhancement.
• DYNAMIC ENHANCER: Restores high-frequency content lost during heavy compression.

3.3. De-Esser Section

• MALE/FEMALE: Optimizes de-essing for male or female vocal frequencies.
• LEVEL: Adjusts the amount of sibilance reduction.

3.4. Peak Limiter Section

• THRESHOLD: Sets the absolute maximum output level, preventing clipping.

3.5. Meters and Global Controls

• GAIN REDUCTION: LED meter indicating the amount of gain reduction applied by the compressor.
• INPUT/OUTPUT LEVEL: LED meter displaying the signal level.
• DE-ESSER LEVEL: LED meter showing de-esser activity.
• STEREO COUPLE: Links both channels for stereo operation, with Channel 1 controls acting as master.
• POWER: On/Off switch for the unit.

4. Rear Panel Connections

The rear panel provides all audio input and output connections, as well as the power inlet.

Figure 4.1: Rear Panel Overview of the MDX2600. This image shows the XLR and 1/4-inch TRS inputs and outputs for both channels, sidechain send/return jacks, and the AC power inlet.

4.1. Audio Inputs

• INPUTS (XLR & 1/4" TRS): Balanced inputs for connecting audio sources.

4.2. Audio Outputs

• OUTPUTS (XLR & 1/4" TRS): Balanced outputs for connecting to mixing consoles, amplifiers, or other audio equipment.

4.3. Sidechain Connections

• SEND (1/4" TRS): Output for sending the main signal to an external equalizer or filter for sidechain processing.
• RETURN (1/4" TRS): Input for receiving the processed signal back into the sidechain circuit.

4.4. Power Inlet

• AC IN: Standard IEC power connector for connecting the unit to mains power.

5. Setup

1. Rack Mounting: The MDX2600 is designed for standard 19-inch rack mounting. Secure it using appropriate rack screws.
2. Power Connection: Connect the supplied AC power cable to the rear panel AC IN socket and then to a suitable power outlet. Ensure the unit's power switch is in the OFF position before connecting.
3. Audio Connections:
   • Connect your audio source (e.g., mixer insert send, microphone preamplifier output) to the INPUTs of the MDX2600 using balanced XLR or 1/4" TRS cables.
   • Connect the OUTPUTs of the MDX2600 to your destination (e.g., mixer insert return, amplifier input) using balanced XLR or 1/4" TRS cables.
4. Sidechain Connections (Optional): If using external sidechain processing, connect the SEND jack to your external processor's input and the external processor's output to the RETURN jack.
5. Initial Settings: Before powering on, set all THRESHOLD, RATIO, ATTACK, RELEASE, and OUTPUT controls to their neutral or minimum positions. Ensure the POWER switch is OFF.

6. Operation

The MDX2600 offers a range of dynamic processing tools. Understanding each section is key to effective operation.

6.1. Expander/Gate Operation

The expander/gate reduces unwanted noise by attenuating signals below a set threshold.

1. Set the THRESHOLD to a level just above the noise floor but below the desired signal.
2. Adjust the RELEASE control to determine how smoothly the gate closes.
3. Use the KEY and SC ENABLE/MONITOR functions for frequency-selective gating or external trigger control.

6.2. Compressor/Limiter Operation

Compression reduces the dynamic range of a signal, making loud parts quieter and allowing overall levels to be increased.

1. Set the THRESHOLD to the point where you want compression to begin.
2. Adjust the RATIO to control the amount of compression. Higher ratios result in more aggressive compression.
3. Set ATTACK and RELEASE times. Faster attack times react quickly to transients, while slower times allow transients to pass through. AUTO mode provides program-dependent timing.
4. Use the OUTPUT control to compensate for any gain reduction and achieve the desired output level.
5. Engage IGC for intelligent peak limiting.
6. Activate TUBE SIMULATION for a warmer, more analog sound.
7. Engage DYNAMIC ENHANCER to restore clarity and presence, especially after heavy compression.

6.3. De-Esser Operation

The de-esser reduces harsh sibilant sounds (e.g., 's', 'sh', 'ch') in vocals.

1. Select MALE or FEMALE to optimize the de-esser's frequency detection for the vocal range.
2. Adjust the LEVEL control to reduce sibilance. Monitor the DE-ESSER LEVEL meter for activity.

6.4. Peak Limiter Operation

The peak limiter prevents signal peaks from exceeding a set maximum level, protecting subsequent equipment from clipping.

1. Set the THRESHOLD to the absolute maximum output level you wish to allow. This is typically set to 0 dB or slightly below.

6.5. Stereo Couple Function

When STEREO COUPLE is engaged, both channels operate as a stereo pair. Channel 1's controls become the master for both channels, ensuring consistent processing for stereo signals.

7. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Clean the unit with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use liquid cleaners or solvents.
• Environment: Operate the MDX2600 in a dry, well-ventilated area. Avoid extreme temperatures, humidity, and direct sunlight. Ensure adequate airflow around the unit, especially if rack-mounted, as it can generate heat.
• Power: Disconnect the unit from the power supply before cleaning or if it will be unused for extended periods.

8. Troubleshooting

9. Specifications

10. Warranty and Support

For detailed warranty information, please refer to the official Behringer website. Behringer provides support resources, including FAQs and service center locations, on their website. Always consult official documentation or authorized service personnel for repairs or advanced troubleshooting.