ART P16 XLR Balanced Patchbay User Manual

1. Introduction

The ART P16 XLR Balanced Patchbay is a 19-inch 1U rack-mount unit designed to streamline audio connections in studio and live sound environments. It provides a convenient solution for managing microphone preamps and other outboard gear with rear-facing XLR jacks, simplifying signal routing and reducing cable clutter. This manual provides essential information for the proper setup, operation, and maintenance of your P16 patchbay.

2. Features

• Reliable PCB Wiring: All internal connections are made via ultra-reliable PCB wiring, ensuring consistent performance and durability.
• Robust Construction: Housed in a rugged, fully shielded black all-steel 19-inch 1U-high rack mount enclosure, providing protection against interference and physical damage.
• Extensive Connectivity: Features 32 XLR connectors, including 16 female ports on the front panel and 16 male ports on the rear panel.
• Reversible Rack Ears: The rack ears can be reversed, allowing for flexible installation to present either the female or male XLR connectors on the front.
• Phantom Power Pass-Through: Designed to allow 48V phantom power to pass through, making it suitable for use with condenser microphones.

3. Setup

Follow these steps to properly set up your ART P16 XLR Balanced Patchbay:

1. Rack Mounting: Install the P16 into a standard 19-inch equipment rack. Secure it using appropriate rack screws. The unit occupies 1U of rack space.
2. Orienting Rack Ears (Optional): The rack ears are reversible. If you prefer to have the male XLR connectors on the front panel instead of the female connectors, you can unscrew and reverse the rack ears.
3. Connecting Rear Panel: Connect the rear panel (male XLR connectors) to the inputs or outputs of your permanent audio equipment, such as microphone preamps, audio interfaces, or mixers. These connections are typically less frequently changed.
4. Connecting Front Panel: Use the front panel (female XLR connectors) for temporary or frequently changed connections, such as connecting microphones, external processors, or other devices that require flexible routing.

Figure 3.1: Front view of the ART P16 XLR Balanced Patchbay, showing 16 female XLR input connectors.

Figure 3.2: Rear view of the ART P16 XLR Balanced Patchbay, showing 16 male XLR output connectors.

4. Operating Instructions

The ART P16 patchbay provides a straightforward method for routing balanced XLR audio signals:

• Direct Connection: Each front panel female XLR input is directly wired to its corresponding rear panel male XLR output. For example, 'INPUT 1' on the front connects directly to 'OUTPUT 1' on the rear.
• Signal Flow: To route a signal, connect your source (e.g., microphone) to a front panel input. The signal will then be available at the corresponding rear panel output, which should be connected to your destination (e.g., mixer input).
• Phantom Power: The P16 is designed to pass 48V phantom power from your preamps or mixer through to connected microphones. Ensure your equipment is properly configured for phantom power if required.

Figure 4.1: Close-up view of the front panel, highlighting the input labels and XLR connectors.

5. Maintenance

Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and reliable performance of your P16 patchbay:

• Cleaning: Keep the unit clean and free from dust. Use a soft, dry cloth for cleaning the exterior. Avoid using abrasive cleaners, solvents, or excessive moisture, which can damage the finish or internal components.
• Connection Checks: Periodically inspect all XLR connections for secure fit. Loose connections can lead to signal degradation or intermittent audio.
• Environmental Conditions: Operate the patchbay in a dry, temperature-controlled environment. Avoid extreme temperatures, humidity, or direct sunlight.

6. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your ART P16 patchbay, consider the following troubleshooting steps:

• No Signal/Intermittent Signal:
  • Verify all XLR cables are securely connected to both the patchbay and your audio equipment.
  • Ensure the correct input on the front panel is connected to the desired output on the rear panel.
  • Test cables individually to rule out faulty cabling.
  • Confirm that phantom power is correctly enabled on your preamp/mixer if using condenser microphones.
• Noise/Hum:
  • Ensure all equipment is properly grounded.
  • Check for any nearby sources of electromagnetic interference. The P16's shielded enclosure helps, but external factors can still cause issues.
  • Use high-quality balanced XLR cables.

The P16 is a passive device, meaning it does not require external power and has minimal internal components that could fail. Most issues are typically related to external cabling or connected equipment.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty and Support

The ART P16 XLR Balanced Patchbay is backed by a 3-year warranty, covering defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. For detailed warranty terms, technical assistance, or customer support, please visit the official ART website or contact their authorized service centers. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty claims.