Introduction
The Strymon PCH is an advanced stereo active direct interface designed for musicians and audio professionals. It provides a transparent signal path for instruments like guitars, keyboards, and synthesizers, allowing direct connection to mixing consoles or recording interfaces. The PCH also features a studio-grade headphone amplifier for personal monitoring and silent practice.
This manual provides detailed instructions for setting up, operating, and maintaining your Strymon PCH to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Key Features
- Advanced Direct Interface: Offers a transparent stereo active direct interface for various instruments.
- Console-Quality Headphone Amplifier: Built-in headphone amp for detailed stereo monitoring or silent practice, capable of driving high-impedance headphones.
- Virtually Unclippable Design: Internal power circuit boosts standard 9V DC to 24V for massive headroom.
- Flexible Pro Outputs: Supports stereo or dual mono operation with stereo XLR outputs, switchable mic/line level, and ground lift. Stereo Thru outputs include a mono sum ability.
- Rugged Build: Housed in a durable extruded aluminum chassis for silent operation and flat frequency response.
Setup
Follow these steps to set up your Strymon PCH:
- Power Connection: Connect a standard 9V DC power supply (center-negative) to the 9VDC input jack on the PCH. The unit will internally boost this to 24V for optimal performance.
- Instrument Input: Connect your instrument (guitar, synth, keyboard, etc.) to the IN (Left/Right) 1/4" input jacks. For mono instruments, use the Left IN jack.
- Thru Outputs: Use the THRU (Left/Right) 1/4" jacks to send the input signal to other devices, such as an amplifier or pedalboard. The THRU outputs can be summed to mono using the 'sum stereo' switch if desired.
- XLR Outputs: Connect the LEFT OUT and RIGHT OUT XLR jacks to your mixing console, audio interface, or PA system.
- Headphone Connection: Plug your headphones into the PHONES 1/4" stereo jack for personal monitoring.
Image: Overview of the Strymon PCH showing input, thru, headphone, and output connections.
Image: Close-up of the PCH rear panel, highlighting the IN, THRU, PHONES, and 9VDC power connections.
Operation
Understanding the controls of your PCH is essential for optimal sound routing and monitoring.
- PHONES Volume Knob: Adjusts the output level for the connected headphones. Rotate clockwise to increase volume, counter-clockwise to decrease.
- SUM (THRU) Switch: This switch affects the THRU outputs.
- When set to 'sum', the Left and Right input signals are summed to mono and sent to both THRU outputs.
- When set to 'stereo', the Left input goes to the Left THRU, and the Right input goes to the Right THRU.
- LEVEL (XLR Outputs) Switch: Located near the XLR outputs, this switch selects the output level for the XLR connections.
- Set to 'mic' for connecting to microphone preamps or inputs expecting a mic-level signal.
- Set to 'line' for connecting to line-level inputs on mixers or audio interfaces.
- GROUND (XLR Outputs) Lift Switch: This switch helps eliminate hum and noise caused by ground loops.
- Set to 'lift' to disconnect the ground connection between the PCH and the connected device via XLR.
- Set to 'gnd' (ground) for a standard ground connection. If you experience hum, try switching to 'lift'.
Image: Close-up of the PCH XLR outputs, showing the LEVEL (mic/line) and GROUND (lift/gnd) switches.
Image: Top view of the Strymon PCH, illustrating the overall layout of controls and connections.
Maintenance
The Strymon PCH is designed for durability and requires minimal maintenance.
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the unit. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- Storage: Store the PCH in a dry environment, away from extreme temperatures and direct sunlight.
- Connections: Periodically check all cable connections for secure fit and signs of wear.
- Power Supply: Always use a compatible 9V DC (center-negative) power supply. Using an incorrect power supply can damage the unit.
Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your Strymon PCH, refer to the following common troubleshooting steps:
| Problem | Possible Cause / Solution |
|---|---|
| No Sound Output |
|
| Hum or Buzzing Noise |
|
| Low Headphone Volume |
|
| Distorted Sound |
|
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Number | PCH |
| Item Weight | 1.2 pounds (0.54 kg) |
| Product Dimensions | 4.88" x 2.97" x 1.94" (12.4 x 7.5 x 4.9 cm) |
| Connectivity Technology | XLR, 1/4" TRS |
| Number of Channels | 4 (Stereo In, Stereo Thru, Stereo Out) |
| Compatible Devices | Guitar, Keyboard, Synthesizer, Pedalboards, Personal Computer, Portable Media Player, Speaker |
| Material Type | Extruded Aluminum |
| Power Requirement | 9V DC (center-negative) |
| Internal Operating Voltage | 24V (internally boosted) |
Warranty and Support
For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official Strymon website or contact their customer service directly. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
Strymon Official Website: www.strymon.net
