Behringer STUDIO L User Manual

1. Introduction

The Behringer STUDIO L is a comprehensive studio control and communication center designed to streamline your audio workflow. It integrates essential studio functions into a single, compact unit, offering high-quality audio performance and versatile connectivity for professional and home studio environments.

Key features include:

• Premium, ultra-low noise and high headroom studio control.
• All-in-one master volume controller, source selector, monitor switcher, and talkback box.
• Two state-of-the-art Midas mic preamplifiers with +48 V phantom power.
• Audiophile 192 kHz 2x2 USB audio interface, ideal for computer-based studios.
• True VCA control for extremely precise level control and stereo tracking.

2. Product Overview

The STUDIO L provides intuitive control over your studio monitoring and communication. Below is an overview of the device's front and rear panels.

Figure 2.1: Front panel of the Behringer STUDIO L, showing all controls and indicators.

Figure 2.2: Rear panel of the Behringer STUDIO L, displaying all input and output connections.

3. Setup and Connections

Follow these steps to set up your Behringer STUDIO L and connect it to your studio equipment.

3.1 Power Connection

1. Connect the provided power adapter to the DC IN port on the rear panel.
2. Plug the power adapter into a suitable electrical outlet.
3. Ensure the POWER switch on the rear panel is in the OFF position before connecting.

3.2 USB Connection

The STUDIO L functions as a 192 kHz 2x2 USB audio interface. Connect it to your computer for audio recording and playback.

1. Connect a USB cable from the USB port on the rear panel of the STUDIO L to an available USB port on your computer.
2. The device is compatible with Personal Computers running Windows operating systems. Ensure necessary drivers are installed if required by your operating system.

3.3 Audio Input Connections

The STUDIO L features two Midas mic preamplifiers and additional stereo inputs.

Figure 3.1: Utilizing the Midas mic preamplifiers for vocal recording.

• Mic/Line Inputs (1L, 2R): Connect microphones or line-level instruments to the XLR/TRS combo jacks on the rear panel. Activate +48V phantom power for condenser microphones using the dedicated button on the front panel.
• Stereo Inputs (3/4): Connect stereo line-level sources (e.g., synthesizers, media players) to the 1/4-inch TRS jacks on the rear panel.
• Stereo In (5/6): An additional stereo input is available on the front panel for quick connection of portable devices.

3.4 Audio Output Connections

Connect your studio monitors and headphones to the STUDIO L.

• Monitor Outputs (A, B, C): Connect up to three pairs of studio monitors to the balanced/unbalanced 1/4-inch TRS jacks on the rear panel.
• 2-Track Output: Provides an additional stereo output for recording or routing to other devices.
• Headphone Outputs (1, 2): Connect up to two pairs of headphones to the 1/4-inch TRS jacks on the front panel.

4. Operation

This section details the operational aspects of the Behringer STUDIO L.

4.1 Powering On/Off

1. After all connections are made, flip the POWER switch on the rear panel to the ON position.
2. The POWER and USB indicators on the front panel will illuminate.

4.2 Input Gain and Trim

Adjust the input levels for optimal signal quality.

• Use the GAIN knobs for inputs 1(L) and 2(R) to set the primary input level for microphones or instruments.
• The TRIM knobs for inputs 1/2, 3/4, and 5/6 allow for fine-tuning of the input levels.
• Monitor the input level meters to prevent clipping (red CLIP indicator).

4.3 Source Selection

Select which input source you want to monitor.

• Use the INPUTS buttons (1/2, 3/4, 5/6) to select the desired input source for monitoring.
• The USB button selects the audio stream from your computer.
• The 2-TR SOURCE SELECT allows you to choose between 2-TR IN 1/2 or 2-TR IN 3/4 for monitoring.

4.4 Monitor Selection and Volume

Control which set of studio monitors is active and adjust the overall listening volume.

• Press the MONITOR SELECT buttons (A, B, C) to switch between your connected studio monitor pairs.
• The large VOLUME knob controls the master output level to the selected monitors. This knob utilizes VCA control for precise and accurate level adjustments.
• Press the MONO button to check your mix in mono.
• Press the DIM button to temporarily reduce the monitor volume by a fixed amount.

Figure 4.1: VCA (Voltage Controlled Amplifier) control ensures accurate and consistent volume adjustments.

4.5 Talkback Function

Communicate with artists in the recording booth or other studio areas.

Figure 4.2: Talkback and Cue controls for studio communication.

• Press the TALKBACK button to activate the internal microphone and speak to the cue mix.
• Adjust the TALKBACK volume knob to control the level of your voice in the cue mix.
• An external microphone can be connected to the EXT MIC XLR input on the rear panel for talkback.

4.6 Headphone Monitoring

The STUDIO L provides two independent headphone outputs.

• Connect your headphones to PHONES 1 or PHONES 2 on the front panel.
• Adjust the individual VOLUME knobs for each headphone output.
• The CUE SOURCE section allows you to select the source for the headphone mixes (Inputs, Cue, 2-TR Cue).

5. Technical Specifications

Below are the technical specifications for the Behringer STUDIO L.

6. Care and Maintenance

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your Behringer STUDIO L, follow these care and maintenance guidelines:

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the unit. Avoid abrasive cleaners, solvents, or waxes, as these can damage the finish and controls.
• Environment: Operate the device in a clean, dry environment away from direct sunlight, excessive heat, moisture, and dust.
• Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation around the unit to prevent overheating. Do not block any ventilation openings.
• Handling: Handle the unit with care. Avoid dropping it or subjecting it to strong impacts.
• Power: Always disconnect the power adapter from the wall outlet if the unit will be unused for an extended period.

7. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your Behringer STUDIO L, refer to the following common troubleshooting steps:

7.1 No Power

• Ensure the power adapter is securely connected to both the STUDIO L and a working electrical outlet.
• Verify that the POWER switch on the rear panel is in the ON position.
• Check if the power outlet is functional by plugging in another device.

7.2 No Sound Output

• Check all audio cable connections to your monitors and headphones.
• Ensure the VOLUME knob on the front panel is turned up.
• Verify that the correct MONITOR SELECT (A, B, or C) is active for your connected speakers.
• Confirm that the correct input source (e.g., USB, 1/2, 3/4) is selected.
• If using headphones, ensure their individual VOLUME knobs are turned up and the correct CUE SOURCE is selected.
• For USB audio, check your computer's sound settings to ensure the Behringer STUDIO L is selected as the output device.

7.3 Distorted Sound

• Reduce the GAIN and TRIM levels for your inputs to prevent clipping, indicated by the red CLIP LED.
• Check the input levels on your computer's DAW or audio software.
• Ensure all cables are in good condition and properly connected.

7.4 Talkback Not Working

• Ensure the TALKBACK button is pressed and its volume knob is turned up.
• If using an external microphone, ensure it is properly connected to the EXT MIC input and the INT/EXT switch is set to EXT.
• Verify that the cue mix is routed to the headphones or monitors where the artist is listening.

8. Warranty and Support

For detailed warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official Behringer website or contact their customer service directly. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for any warranty claims.