Samson S-zone 4-Input 4-Zone Stereo Mixer User Manual

Introduction

The Samson S-zone is a versatile 4-input, 4-zone stereo mixer designed for commercial and professional audio installations. It allows for flexible routing of audio signals to multiple zones, making it ideal for restaurants, health clubs, offices, and other venues requiring independent control over different audio areas. This manual provides detailed instructions for the proper setup, operation, and maintenance of your S-zone mixer.

Samson S-zone 4-Input 4-Zone Stereo Mixer front view

Figure 1: Front view of the Samson S-zone mixer, showing all controls and indicators.

Important Safety Instructions

Please read these instructions carefully before operating the S-zone mixer. Keep this manual for future reference.

Power Source: Connect the unit only to an AC power outlet of the voltage specified on the rear panel.
Water and Moisture: Do not expose this unit to rain or moisture. Do not use near water.
Heat: Do not place the unit near heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other appliances that produce heat.
Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation. Do not block any ventilation openings.
Servicing: Do not attempt to service this unit yourself. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
Cleaning: Clean only with a dry cloth.

Setup

1. Unpacking

Carefully unpack your S-zone mixer. Retain the packing materials for future shipping. Inspect the unit for any signs of damage that may have occurred during transit. If damage is present, contact your dealer immediately.

2. Physical Installation

The S-zone is designed for standard 19-inch rack mounting. Secure the unit using four rack screws (not included) to prevent movement and ensure stability.

3. Connecting Power

Connect the supplied AC power cable to the power input on the rear panel of the S-zone and then to a suitable AC power outlet. Ensure the power switch on the front panel is in the OFF position before connecting power.

4. Audio Connections

All audio connections should be made with the S-zone powered off. Use high-quality shielded cables for all connections to minimize noise and interference.

Figure 2: Rear panel of the Samson S-zone mixer, showing input and output connectors.

Input Connections

Mic/Line Inputs (Channels 1 & 2): Connect microphones via XLR cables or line-level sources (e.g., instruments, preamps) via 1/4-inch TRS cables to the combo jacks.
CD/Line Inputs (Channels 3 & 4): Connect stereo line-level sources (e.g., CD players, media players) using RCA cables to the dedicated RCA input pairs.

Output Connections

Zone Outputs (1-4): Connect these Euroblock connectors to your zone amplifiers or powered speakers. Each zone output provides a stereo signal.
Monitor Output: Connect to a local monitor speaker or recording device using RCA cables.
Headphone Output: Connect stereo headphones to the 1/4-inch jack on the front panel for personal monitoring.

Operating Instructions

1. Powering On/Off

After all connections are made, press the POWER switch on the front panel to turn the unit ON. The power indicator will illuminate. To turn off, press the POWER switch again.

2. Front Panel Controls

Figure 3: Close-up of the Mic/Line input sections.

MIC / LINE 1 & 2 (Inputs): These sections control the two Mic/Line inputs.
- VOLUME: Adjusts the input level for the corresponding channel.
- ZONE 1-4 Buttons: Press to route the input signal to the respective output zone. Multiple zones can be selected simultaneously.
- ST / MONO Switch: Selects between stereo (ST) and mono operation for the input.

Samson S-zone monitor and line input section controls

Figure 4: Close-up of the Line 3, Line 4, and Monitor sections.

LINE 3 & 4 (Inputs): These sections control the two CD/Line inputs.
- VOLUME: Adjusts the input level for the corresponding channel.
- ZONE 1-4 Buttons: Press to route the input signal to the respective output zone. Multiple zones can be selected simultaneously.
- ST / MONO Switch: Selects between stereo (ST) and mono operation for the input.
MONITOR Section: Controls the built-in speaker and headphone output.
- MONITOR VOLUME: Adjusts the volume for the internal monitor speaker and headphone output.
- HEADPHONES: 1/4-inch stereo jack for connecting headphones.
- ZONE SELECT (1-4): Rotary switch to select which output zone's audio is sent to the monitor speaker and headphone output.

Figure 5: Close-up of the Zone Output sections and Power switch.

ZONE 1-4 OUTPUTS: These sections control the individual output zones.
- VOLUME: Adjusts the master output level for the corresponding zone.
- HIGH / LOW EQ: Two-band equalizer for adjusting the treble (HIGH) and bass (LOW) frequencies of the zone output.
- ST / MONO Switch: Selects between stereo (ST) and mono operation for the zone output.
POWER Switch: Toggles the main power for the unit ON or OFF.

3. Basic Operation

Ensure all input and output devices are connected and the S-zone is powered off.
Turn on the S-zone mixer.
Set all input VOLUME controls to their minimum position and all zone output VOLUME controls to a low setting.
Select the desired input source(s) by pressing the corresponding ZONE buttons for the desired output zone(s).
Gradually increase the VOLUME control for the active input channel until the signal is audible.
Adjust the VOLUME control for the specific output zone(s) to achieve the desired listening level.
Use the HIGH and LOW EQ controls for each zone to fine-tune the tonal balance.
Use the MONITOR section to listen to individual zones through headphones or the internal speaker.

Maintenance

The Samson S-zone mixer requires minimal maintenance. Follow these guidelines to ensure its longevity:

Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the unit. Avoid using abrasive cleaners, solvents, or waxes, as these can damage the finish.
Storage: If storing the unit for an extended period, disconnect it from power and store it in a cool, dry place, preferably in its original packaging.
Ventilation: Ensure that the ventilation openings are not obstructed by dust or debris. Periodically check and clean if necessary.

Troubleshooting

If you experience issues with your S-zone mixer, refer to the following common problems and solutions:

Problem	Possible Cause	Solution
No sound from a specific zone.	Zone output volume is too low. Input not routed to the zone. External amplifier/speakers off or disconnected.	Increase the zone VOLUME control. Ensure the correct ZONE button is pressed for the input. Check power and connections of external audio equipment.
No sound from any zone.	S-zone not powered on. Master output levels too low. All inputs muted or volume at minimum.	Check the POWER switch and power connection. Increase individual zone VOLUME controls. Check input VOLUME controls and ensure inputs are routed to zones.
Distorted sound.	Input level too high. Output level too high. Faulty cable.	Reduce input VOLUME. Reduce zone VOLUME. Try a different cable.
Hum or noise.	Ground loop. Unshielded cables. Interference from other electronics.	Ensure all equipment is on the same electrical circuit or use a ground loop isolator. Use high-quality shielded cables. Relocate the mixer or other interfering devices.

Specifications

Brand: SAMSON
Number of Channels: 4
Item Weight: 1 Pounds
Connectivity Technology: Auxiliary
Power Source: Battery Powered (Note: Product description indicates AC power, please refer to product for exact power source.)

Warranty

Samson Technologies warrants its products to be free from defects in materials and workmanship for a specified period from the date of original purchase. The specific warranty period may vary by product and region. Please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Samson website for detailed warranty information and registration.

Support

For technical support, service, or further information regarding your Samson S-zone mixer, please visit the official Samson Technologies website or contact their customer service department. You can typically find contact information and support resources on their website:

Website: www.samsontech.com