Thomann the t.racks DSP Series Digital Speaker Management System

1 General Information

This user manual contains important information on the safe operation of the device. Read and follow all safety notes and all instructions. Save this manual for future reference. Make sure that it is available to all persons using this device. If you sell the device to another user, be sure that they also receive this manual.

Thomann products and user manuals are subject to continuous development. Thomann reserves the right to make changes without notice. Please refer to the latest version of the user manual, available for download at www.thomann.de.

1.1 Further Information

On the website www.thomann.de, you will find further information and details on the following points:

• Download: This manual is also available as a PDF file for download.
• Keyword search: Use the search function in the electronic version to find topics of interest quickly.
• Online guides: Provide detailed information on technical basics and terms.
• Personal consultation: Contact the technical hotline for assistance.
• Service: Customer service will gladly assist with any problems with the device.

1.2 Notational Conventions

This manual uses the following notational conventions:

• Letterings: For connectors and controls, letterings are marked by square brackets and italics, e.g., [VOLUME] control, [Mono] button.
• Displays: Texts and values displayed on the device are marked by quotation marks and italics, e.g., '24ch', 'OFF'.
• Text input: Text inputs carried out on the device are indicated by typewriter font, e.g., 2323.

1.3 Symbols and Signal Words

This section provides an overview of the meaning of symbols and signal words used in this manual:

Warning signs: ⚠️ Warning – danger zone.

2 Safety Instructions

Intended Use

This device is intended for amplification, mixing, and playback of signals from musical instruments and microphones. Use the device only as described in this user manual. Any other use or use under other operating conditions is considered improper and may result in personal injury or property damage. No liability will be assumed for damages resulting from improper use.

This device may only be used by persons with sufficient physical, sensorial, and intellectual abilities and corresponding knowledge and experience. Other persons may use this device only if they are supervised or instructed by a person responsible for their safety.

Safety

• DANGER! Danger for children: Ensure plastic bags, packaging, etc., are disposed of properly and are not within reach of babies and young children. Choking hazard! Ensure children do not detach any small parts (e.g., knobs) from the unit, as they could swallow them and choke. Never leave children unattended with electrical devices.
• NOTICE! Risk of fire: Do not block ventilation areas. Do not install the device near any direct heat source. Keep the device away from naked flames.
• NOTICE! Operating conditions: This device is designed for indoor use only. To prevent damage, never expose the device to liquid or moisture. Avoid direct sunlight, heavy dirt, and strong vibrations. Operate the device only within the ambient conditions specified in the 'Technical specifications' chapter. Avoid heavy temperature fluctuations; do not switch the device on immediately after exposure to temperature changes (e.g., after transport in cold conditions). Dust and dirt inside can damage the unit. If operated in harmful ambient conditions (dust, smoke, nicotine, fog, etc.), the unit should be maintained by qualified service personnel at regular intervals to prevent overheating and other malfunctions.
• NOTICE! Possible damage due to installation of a wrong fuse: Using different types of fuses can cause serious damage to the unit. Fire hazard! Only fuses of the same type may be used.

3 Features

The Thomann the t.racks DSP series offers a digital mixer with comprehensive setting options for optimal sound.

Inputs

• DSP 204 (Item no. 435191): 2 mono channels (XLR chassis sockets) for line-level signals.
• DSP 206 (Item no. 435192): 2 mono channels (XLR chassis sockets) for line-level signals.
• DSP 306 (Item no. 435193): 3 mono channels (XLR chassis sockets) for line-level signals.
• DSP 408 (Item no. 435194): 4 mono channels (XLR chassis sockets) for line-level signals.

Outputs

• DSP 204 (Item no. 435191): 4 mono channels (XLR chassis plugs) for line-level signals.
• DSP 206 (Item no. 435192): 6 mono channels (XLR chassis plugs) for line-level signals.
• DSP 306 (Item no. 435193): 6 mono channels (XLR chassis plugs) for line-level signals.
• DSP 408 (Item no. 435194): 8 mono channels (XLR chassis plugs) for line-level signals.

Sound Processing Options

• Parametric equalizer
• Graphic equalizer
• High- and low-pass filters
• Noise Gate
• Limiter
• Phase inversion

Connectivity and Control

• USB port for computer control using the supplied software.
• D-Sub socket for remote control or cascading of multiple devices.
• Network connection for integration into a local network.
• Operation via front panel buttons, jog wheel, and display.

4 Installation and Starting Up

Unpack and check carefully for transportation damage before using the unit. Keep the equipment packaging to fully protect the product against vibration, dust, and moisture during transportation or storage. Use the original packaging or suitable alternative packaging material.

Create all connections while the device is off. Use the shortest possible high-quality cables for all connections. Take care when running cables to prevent tripping hazards.

Rack Mounting

The unit is designed for rack mounting in a standard 19-inch rack, occupying one rack unit.

Configuration Example 1: USB Control

Diagram shows a rack-mounted DSP unit connected via a USB cable to a computer. The unit features input and output level indicators, a display, and control buttons.

Configuration Example 2: LAN Connection

Diagram shows multiple DSP units integrated into a local area network (LAN) via a computer and a WIFI router, with each unit assigned an ID.

Configuration Example 3: Serial Port Control

Diagram shows a DSP unit connected to a computer via a serial port, with the unit assigned an ID.

5 Connections and Controls

Front Panel

Illustration of the front panel of the DSP unit, showing numbered controls:

• 1 [INPUTS]: Level indicators for input channels. Red [CLIP] LEDs indicate overload.
• 2 [EDIT]: Buttons to select edit mode for input channels.
• 3 [MUTE]: Buttons to mute or unmute respective input channels.
• 4 [OUTPUTS]: Level indicators for output channels. Red [CLIP] LEDs indicate overload; red [LIMIT] LEDs indicate limiter activation.
• 5 [EDIT]: Buttons to select edit mode for output channels.
• 6 [MUTE]: Buttons to mute or unmute respective output channels.
• 7 Display: Shows device status and parameters.
• 8 [ENTER/PARAMETER] Jog wheel: Used to set values and navigate menus.
• 9 Parameter Buttons: Direct selection of parameters; use [EXIT] to leave edit mode.
• 10 [USB]: USB port for computer connection.

Rear Panel

Illustration of the rear panel of the DSP unit, showing numbered connectors:

• 11 Mains plug with fuse holder: For power connection.
• 12 [POWER]: Main switch to turn the device on and off.
• 13 [ETHERNET]: RJ45 socket for LAN connection.
• 14 [RS232/485PORT]: D-Sub socket for remote control or cascading.
• 15 [OUTPUTS]: XLR chassis plugs for output channels.
• 16 [INPUTS]: XLR chassis sockets for input channels.

6 Operating on the Unit

Starting the Device

Connect the device to the power grid and turn it on using the main switch. After a few seconds, the display will indicate a reset in progress, then show the model name and active user preset. The device can be operated directly with buttons when not controlled via USB, LAN, or serial interface. Active buttons light up continuously, recently used ones flash, and inactive buttons remain dark.

Default Settings

To adjust default settings:

1. Press and hold [UTIL] until the desired parameter appears on the display.
2. Use the jog wheel to set the desired value and press the jog wheel to confirm.
3. Press [EXIT] to exit.

Available parameters include:

• ID Number Select: Unique identification for serial configurations (1-254).
• Manual IP Set: For network connection (default IP: 192.168.1.101).
• Unit Lock PassWord: Four-character password (default: 1234).
• Input Source Select: Choose between analog inputs or internal test tone generator (pink noise, white noise, sine wave 20 Hz-20 kHz).
• Copy CH select: Copies settings from one channel to another.
• Delay Units Select: Sets delay display units to milliseconds (ms), meters (m), or feet (ft).

User Presets

Save and recall up to 20 different user presets for different room or stage setups.

• Save Use Preset: Press [SAVE], select a preset slot ('U01' to 'U20') using the jog wheel, confirm, and optionally name the preset. Settings are saved upon confirmation.
• Call Up User Preset: Press [RECALL], select a preset slot ('U01'-'U20' or 'F00' for basic setting) using the jog wheel, and confirm to load the settings.

Input Settings

To adjust input settings:

1. Press the [EDIT] button for the desired channel. The display shows 'GAIN'.
2. Use the jog wheel to set the channel level (-60 dB to +12 dB).
3. Press the relevant button to access further parameters and use the jog wheel to set values.

Parameters include:

• PEQ: Parametric Equalizer for 9 frequency bands (frequency, Q, gain, style, bypass).
• GEQ: Graphic Equalizer with 31 frequency bands (frequency, gain).
• INLINK: Links settings of multiple input channels.
• DELAY: Sets delay time (ms, m, ft).
• X-OVER: High-pass and low-pass filter settings (frequency, slope, filter type, bypass).
• GATE: Noise Gate parameters (threshold, hold, attack, release).
• PHASE: Phase inversion (0° or 180°).

Output Settings

To adjust output settings:

1. Press the [EDIT] button for the desired channel. The display shows 'GAIN'.
2. Use the jog wheel to set the channel level (-60 dB to +12 dB).
3. Press the relevant button to access further parameters and use the jog wheel to set values.

Parameters include:

• PEQ: Parametric Equalizer for 9 frequency bands (frequency, Q, gain, style, bypass).
• INLINK: Links settings of multiple output channels.
• DELAY: Sets delay time (ms, m, ft).
• X-OVER: High-pass and low-pass filter settings (frequency, slope, filter type, bypass).
• MATRIX: Assigns input channels to output channels and adjusts level.

Additional output parameters:

• GATE: Noise Gate parameters (threshold, hold, attack, release).
• LIMIT: Limiter parameters (threshold, attack, release).
• PHASE: Phase inversion (0° or 180°).

7 Control on the Computer

Installing and Starting the Software

1. Insert the software CD into the computer's CD drive (Windows OS) and start the installation program.
2. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
3. Connect the computer to the device via a USB cable and power on the device. The operating system will recognize the USB device.
4. Open the computer program; it will automatically recognize the attached device. The 'Online' indicator will appear in the program window.

Closing the Software

1. Click the 'Online' button in the program window.
2. Close the program window.

Parts of the Programme Window

The software interface features distinct areas:

• Tabs: For selecting function groups (Gain, Gate, Comp, Limit, Delay, Matrix, GEQ, In, Out).
• Main menu: Includes options like 'File' (load/save presets), 'Link', 'Copy', 'Lock' (password), 'Setting ID/IP', 'Test tone', 'Channel name', 'Language', 'Help', and 'About'.
• Connection Status Button: Indicates the connection status to the computer.
• Display Area: Shows graphical representations of settings and signal levels.
• Control Area: Allows adjustment of parameters via faders and buttons.
• Quick Access Buttons: For immediate access to important presets.

Tab Descriptions

• Gain Tab: Displays input and output channel signal curves. Control area allows fader adjustment for input/output levels and mute/phase inversion.
• Gate Tab: Shows noise gate settings with level indicators. Control area allows adjustment of threshold, hold, attack, and release parameters.
• Comp Tab: Displays compressor settings with level indicators. Control area allows adjustment of compression, threshold, ratio, attack, and release parameters.
• Limit Tab: Shows limiter settings with level indicators. Control area allows adjustment of threshold, attack, and release parameters.
• Delay Tab: Displays set delays for all channels. Control area allows setting delay values and selecting units (ms, m, ft).
• Matrix Tab: Shows the configuration of input-to-output channel assignments. Allows connecting input channels to output channels and setting level adjustments.
• GEQ Tab: Displays graphic equalizer settings for selected input channels. Control area allows boost/cut adjustments for frequency bands.
• In Tab: Allows detailed parametric EQ adjustments for input channels, including frequency, Q, gain, type, and slope. Also includes options for phase and level adjustment.
• Out Tab: Similar to the 'In' tab, providing parametric EQ adjustments for output channels, including phase and level adjustment.

8 Technical Specifications

Further Information

Block Diagram

The block diagram illustrates the signal flow through the DSP unit. It shows input channels (INA, INB, INC, IND) undergoing Analog-to-Digital (A/D) conversion and processing stages including Gain, Gate, Mute, HP/LP filters, GEQ, PEQ, Phase, Delay, Link, and X-over. These processed signals then feed into a Matrix, which routes them to various output processing stages (Mute, Comp, Limit, Phase, Delay, Link) before Digital-to-Analog (D/A) conversion and output to channels OUT1 through OUT8.

9 Plug and Connection Assignment

Introduction

This chapter guides you in selecting the correct cables and plugs for connecting your equipment to ensure a perfect sound experience. Please note the advice, especially regarding 'Sound & Light' precautions: An incorrect connection, even if the plug fits, may result in a destroyed power amplifier, a short circuit, or poor transmission quality.

XLR Plug (Balanced)

Pinout description for a balanced XLR plug:

• 1: Ground, shielding
• 2: Signal (in phase, +)
• 3: Signal (out of phase, -)
• 4: Shielding on plug housing (option)

10 Protecting the Environment

Disposal of Packaging Material

Environmentally friendly materials have been chosen for transport and protective packaging, suitable for normal recycling. Ensure plastic bags and packaging are disposed of properly, not with normal household waste, but collected for recycling. Follow the notes and markings on the packaging.

Disposal of Old Device

This product is subject to the European Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive (WEEE). Do not dispose of with normal household waste. Dispose of this device through an approved waste disposal firm or your local waste facility, complying with country-specific rules and regulations. Consult your local waste disposal facility if in doubt.