Behringer POWERPLAY P16-M 16-Channel Digital Personal Mixer User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your Behringer POWERPLAY P16-M 16-Channel Digital Personal Mixer. The P16-M is designed to give musicians and performers individual control over their monitor mix, enhancing live performance and studio recording experiences.

2. Important Safety Instructions

Read these instructions thoroughly before operating the device.
Keep these instructions for future reference.
Heed all warnings and follow all instructions.
Do not use this apparatus near water.
Clean only with a dry cloth.
Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding-type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched, particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.

3. Setup

The Behringer POWERPLAY P16-M is designed for easy integration into your existing audio system, particularly with Behringer's Ultranet-compatible devices.

3.1 Connecting the P16-M

Power Connection: Connect the P16-M to a power outlet using the provided power adapter. Alternatively, if using a Behringer P16-I Input Module or P16-D Distribution Hub, the P16-M can receive power over Ethernet (PoE) via the Ultranet connection, eliminating the need for a separate power supply.
Ultranet Connection: Use a standard Ethernet cable to connect the P16-M's ULTRANET input to an Ultranet output on a compatible Behringer digital mixer, P16-I Input Module, or P16-D Distribution Hub. This single cable transmits 16 channels of digital audio and, if supported by the source device, power.
Headphone/Monitor Connection: Connect your headphones or in-ear monitors to the 1/4-inch TRS HEADPHONE output on the P16-M. For connecting to a powered monitor speaker, use the LINE OUT (L/R) jacks.

Image 3.1: Front panel of the Behringer POWERPLAY P16-M, showing all controls and connections. This image illustrates the layout of the setup, equalizer, output, pan/balance, and volume controls, along with the channel selection buttons.

4. Operating Instructions

The P16-M provides intuitive controls for creating a personalized monitor mix.

4.1 Channel Selection and Volume

Channel Buttons (1-16): Press any of the 16 channel buttons to select the desired input channel. The corresponding LED will illuminate.
VOLUME Knob: Once a channel is selected, use the large VOLUME knob to adjust the individual volume level for that specific channel in your personal mix. The LED meter above the knob indicates the current volume level.
MAIN Button: Press the MAIN button to select the overall master volume control. The VOLUME knob will then adjust the total output level of your personal mix.
SOLO Button: Press SOLO to listen to only the currently selected channel. Press again to deselect.
MUTE Button: Press MUTE to silence the currently selected channel. Press again to unmute.

4.2 Equalization (EQ)

Each channel features a 3-band equalizer to fine-tune the sound.

BASS Knob: Adjusts the low-frequency content of the selected channel.
MID Knob: Adjusts the mid-frequency content.
FREQ Knob: When the MID knob is active, this knob selects the specific frequency within the mid-range that the MID knob will affect.
TREBLE Knob: Adjusts the high-frequency content of the selected channel.

4.3 Pan/Balance

The PAN/BAL knob allows you to position the selected channel within the stereo field of your monitor mix.

PAN/BAL Knob: Turn left to pan the sound towards the left ear/speaker, and right to pan towards the right. The LED meter indicates the current pan position.

4.4 Output Controls

LIMITER Knob: This control adjusts the threshold of the built-in limiter. Turning it clockwise increases the limiting effect, preventing sudden loud peaks and protecting your hearing.
LEVEL Knob: This is the master output level control for the entire personal mix, affecting both the headphone and line outputs.

4.5 Setup Functions (Link, Group, Recall, Store)

These buttons allow for advanced configuration and preset management. Refer to the full user guide for detailed instructions on these functions.

LINK: Used to link adjacent channels for stereo operation or group control.
GROUP: Assigns selected channels to a group for simultaneous control.
RECALL: Recalls previously saved user presets.
STORE: Saves your current mix settings as a user preset.

5. Maintenance

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your P16-M, follow these simple maintenance guidelines:

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 and controls.
Storage: When not in use for extended periods, store the P16-M in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
Ventilation: Ensure that the ventilation openings are not blocked to prevent overheating.
Cable Care: Regularly inspect all cables for signs of wear or damage. Replace any damaged cables immediately to prevent electrical hazards or signal loss.

6. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your P16-M, consult the following troubleshooting guide before contacting support.

Problem	Possible Cause	Solution
No power to the unit.	Power adapter not connected or faulty; Ultranet cable not providing PoE; power outlet not active.	Ensure power adapter is securely connected and plugged into a live outlet. If using PoE, verify the Ultranet source (e.g., P16-I, P16-D) is powered and configured correctly. Try a different power outlet or adapter.
No sound from headphones/line out.	Volume too low; MUTE engaged; incorrect channel selected; Ultranet signal issue; faulty headphones/cables.	Check the MAIN and individual channel VOLUME knobs. Ensure the MUTE button is not active for the selected channel or the master. Verify the correct channel is selected and receiving signal from the Ultranet source. Test with different headphones or cables. Confirm the Ultranet cable is securely connected and functioning.
Distorted audio.	Input signal too hot; output level too high; limiter set too aggressively.	Reduce the input gain at the source (e.g., mixer). Lower the P16-M's master LEVEL knob. Adjust the LIMITER knob to a less aggressive setting.
Cannot save/recall presets.	Incorrect procedure for STORE/RECALL.	Refer to the detailed instructions in the full user manual for saving and recalling presets.

7. Specifications

Key technical specifications for the Behringer POWERPLAY P16-M Digital Personal Mixer:

Model: P16M
Number of Channels: 16
Connectivity Technology: Auxiliary, Ultranet (Ethernet)
Power Source: Corded Electric (via adapter) or Power over Ethernet (PoE)
Item Weight: Approximately 1.8 pounds (0.82 kg)
Product Dimensions: Approximately 5.28 x 10.12 x 2.48 inches (13.4 x 25.7 x 6.3 cm)
Color: Black & Grey
First Available: June 12, 2007

Image 7.1: Side view of the Behringer POWERPLAY P16-M, illustrating its compact dimensions. The image shows the height of the unit as 3.2 inches (8 cm).

8. Warranty and Support

For detailed warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official Behringer website or contact their customer service directly. The manufacturer provides a limited warranty for this product against defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

An official user guide in PDF format is also available for download: Behringer P16-M User Guide (PDF).

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