Behringer DIGITAL SNAKE S16

1. Introduction

The S16 Digital Snake is a 16-input, 8-output stagebox featuring AES50 networking with KLARK TEKNIK SuperMac technology. It is designed for versatile use, functioning as a stand-alone unit with analog mixing consoles or as part of Behringer's digital mixing ecosystem alongside the X32 digital mixer and P16 personal monitoring system. The S16 boasts 16 MIDAS-designed XLR inputs that are fully programmable and remotely controllable from the X32. It also provides 8 balanced XLR outputs for sending audio to the stage for mains and monitoring. The front panel offers controls for input/output levels and phantom power, along with an 8-LED meter and a 7-segment display. A 1/4" headphone jack allows for monitoring of the currently selected channel.

Dual AES50 jacks enable the transmission of all audio and MIDI data to the Front of House (FOH) X32 console via a single Ethernet cable. Up to three S16 units can be cascaded for a maximum channel count of 48 bidirectional audio channels at 24-bit / 48 kHz. This setup can include 48 analog inputs from the stage, 24 analog outputs on stage, Ultranet channels, MIDI data, and head amp remote control.

An additional Ultranet output provides 16 channels for Behringer's P16 personal monitoring system via Ethernet, allowing individual musicians to control their monitor mixes from the stage. A pair of ADAT optical ports can carry additional sends to the stage beyond the 8 analog outputs, or split the 16 inputs. A USB jack is available for future firmware updates.

2. Callouts

The S16 front panel features the following controls and indicators:

• 1. PHANTOM LEDs: Indicate when 48V phantom power is engaged for a particular channel.
• 2. MIDAS-designed mic/line inputs: Balanced XLR male plugs for connecting microphones and line-level sources.
• 3. GAIN button: Press and hold to display the currently selected mic input's gain setting, which can then be adjusted using the SELECT/ADJUST knob.
• 4. DISPLAY: Shows the selected channel number, its gain setting, or the sample rate in Snake Master configuration.
• 5. NETWORK LINK LEDs: Indicate AES50 port connection status. Red means connected but not synchronized; green means connected and synchronized.
• 6. 48 V button: Sends 48V phantom power to the currently selected mic input; indicated by a lit button.
• 7. STATUS LEDs: Indicate the operation mode of various features. The HA LOCKED LED signifies that preamp gain adjustment is blocked by the controlling X32 console. To unlock, access the X32 Setup/Global page and uncheck the 'Lock Stagebox' preference.
• 8. CONFIG button: When pressed and held, allows the device's operation mode to be adjusted using the SELECT/ADJUST knob. Refer to the Operation Mode Chart for details.
• 9. SELECT/ADJUST knob: Scrolls through the 16 channels, adjusts the gain of the currently selected input, and changes the operating mode. Push repeatedly to cycle through Inputs, Outputs, P16 channels, ADAT outputs, and Stage (in Snake Master mode).
• 10. LED METER: Displays the signal level of the currently selected channel.
• 11. MONITORING LEVEL knob: Adjusts the level of the PHONES output.
• 12. XLR outputs: Balanced XLR female plugs for sending audio signals.
• 13. POWER switch: Turns the unit on and off.
• 14. USB input: Accepts a USB Type-B plug for firmware updates via a PC.
• 15. AES50 ports: Enable connection to a SuperMAC digital multichannel audio network via shielded Cat-5e Ethernet cables. These ports allow connection to digital mixers or cascading of multiple S16 units.
• 16. ULTRANET port: Sends 16 channels to a Behringer P-16 personal monitoring system.
• 17. ADAT OUT jacks: Send AES50 channels 17-32 to external equipment via optical cable, or split the local 16 inputs for direct ADAT recording.
• 18. MIDI IN/OUT jacks: Accept standard 5-pin MIDI cables for MIDI communication to and from an X32 console.

3. Hookup Diagrams

The S16 facilitates various connection scenarios, including:

• Front Panel Connections: The front panel features 16 MIDAS-designed mic/line inputs (XLR) and 8 balanced XLR outputs. It also includes controls for gain, phantom power, monitoring level, and status indicators. The diagram illustrates connections to common audio equipment like microphones (XM8500), DI boxes, keyboards, and active speakers/monitors (B215D, B1800D PRO, F1320D).
• Rear Panel Connections: The rear panel houses the power input, USB port for firmware updates, AES50 ports (A and B) for networking, Ultranet port for P-16 systems, ADAT optical outputs, and MIDI IN/OUT ports.
• System Integration: Diagrams show how the S16 integrates with the Behringer X32 console using AES50 networking via shielded Cat-5e cables. It also illustrates connections for the P16 personal monitoring system (P16-D distribution, P16-M personal monitors), and external interfaces like the FCA1616.
• Standalone Snake Configuration: A diagram depicts the S16 used as a standalone digital snake, connecting directly to an analog mixer or via an ADA8000 for additional outputs. This setup can involve one or more S16 units on stage and at FOH.

Cabling for AES50 connections: Requires shielded Cat-5e cables with Ethercon terminated ends, with a maximum length of 100 meters (300 feet).

4. Configuring the S16

The S16 offers flexible configuration options using the CONFIG button and the SELECT/ADJUST knob. Holding the CONFIG button while turning the SELECT/ADJUST knob allows users to cycle through 10 distinct operation modes, indicated by STATUS LEDs. The Operation Mode Chart details the routing for each setting.

Operation Modes

SN(ake) MASTER Mode: When multiple S16 units are used, activating SN MASTER mode on one unit enables it to control the preamp gain of other connected units. This mode also dictates the overall clock synchronization (44.1 or 48 kHz). This is ideal for creating a 16x16 digital snake or a 32-channel mic preamp system via ADAT.

SPLITTER Mode: In this mode, the 16 local analog inputs are routed directly to the ADAT outputs and the P16 output. This is useful for using the S16 as a standalone snake where the P16 monitor mix cannot be adjusted from an X32 console. The S16 can also function as a high-quality mic preamp, sending its 16 inputs via ADAT to an interface or computer for recording. When SPLITTER mode is off, the ADAT outputs carry AES50 channels 17-32, and the P16 output carries channels 33-48.

Output Shifting (OUT +8, OUT +16): These options are used when daisy-chaining multiple S16 units to expand the output capabilities. For instance, in a scenario with three daisy-chained S16s:

• The first unit typically handles AES50 channels 1-8.
• The second unit, set to OUT +8, will have its analog outputs carry channels 9-16.
• The third unit, set to OUT +16, will have its analog outputs carry channels 17-24.

This allows for up to 24 return signals to be sent to the stage. Alternatively, the same block of 8 output signals can be distributed across multiple S16 stageboxes.

DIGITAL SNAKE S16 Operation Mode Chart

Note: The signals on both S16 units (Out 1-8 and 9-16) and both ADA8000 units (Out 17-24 and 25-32) are fully defined on the X32's 'Routing/AES50 Output' page. The second S16's outputs must be set to Out +8 on the unit itself.

4.1 Standard Operation

In Standard (default) mode, indicated by all configuration STATUS LEDs being off, the S16 functions as a digital snake. It allows for the convenient transfer of 16 channels from the stage to FOH, and the sending of 40 total channels back to the stage. The sends to the stage are routed as follows: AES50 channels 1-8 appear on the 8 analog XLR OUTPUTS, AES50 channels 17-24 appear on the ADAT OUTPUTS, and AES50 channels 33-48 appear at the P16 OUTPUT. The specific routing of the AES50 channels can be configured on the X32 console.

4.2 Cascaded Operation

To leverage the S16's full potential, up to three units can be cascaded to support 48 channels of bidirectional audio. When an AES50 signal is cascaded from one S16's port A to another S16's port B, the channels are automatically shifted up by 16. This allows the last S16 in the chain to transmit all audio channels to and from the stage via its AES50-A port. The X32 Routing home page allows selection of the incoming AES50 signals that can be connected to the channel processing. The routing of audio sent from the console to the stage box can be adjusted on the X32 Routing AES50 pages.

The signal flow for cascaded operation with three S16 units is detailed in the following diagrams:

• Upstream (Stage to Console): Local inputs on each S16 are routed to the X32 console via AES50. For example, S16-1 handles inputs 1-8, S16-2 handles inputs 9-16 (routed via its own local inputs or downstream AES50), and S16-3 handles inputs 17-24 (similarly routed).
• Downstream (Console to Stage): Signals from the X32 console are sent back to the stage via AES50. Outputs 1-8 typically go to XLR OUT 1-8 on S16-1. Outputs 9-16 go to XLR OUT 1-8 on S16-2 (if configured with OUT +8). Outputs 17-24 go to ADAT OUT 1-8 on S16-3 (if configured with OUT +16). Higher channel counts are routed to P16 outputs.

The FOH console supplies clock synchronization and controls the S16 preamps exclusively (local HA control is blocked by the console).

5. Standalone Operation

The S16 can operate independently of an X32 console, allowing a pair of S16 units to function as a high-quality digital snake for 16 channels to and from the stage, compatible with any analog mixer. In this setup, a master S16 is placed at FOH, and a slave unit is on stage. The FOH unit must be in SN MASTER mode to control the slave unit's preamps. FOH sends to the 'master' S16's INPUTS 1-8, which appear on the on-stage unit's XLR OUTPUTS. Performer audio sources are connected to the on-stage S16's INPUTS 1-16. Channels 1-8 appear at the 'master' S16's XLR OUTPUTS, and channels 9-16 appear at the ADAT OUTPUT. The ADAT 9-16 OUTPUT can connect to an ADA8000 or similar device to provide additional analog XLR outputs. The outputs from the 'master' S16 and the ADA8000 can then be connected to any main console.

Note: When using S16 units in standalone digital snake mode, the FOH master unit can control the mic gains of the stage unit(s). To do this, press the SELECT/ADJUST button on the master unit until the display reads "St 1".

For recording applications, a single S16 can serve as a high-quality mic preamp. Connect sound sources to INPUTS 1-16 and send these channels via ADAT to an interface or ADAT card installed in a computer. For this scenario, the S16 must be set to SPLITTER mode.

6. MIDI Communication

The S16's head amp gain and phantom power settings can be controlled remotely via MIDI when the unit is used standalone, independent of X32 console products. Note that the S16 will only accept MIDI controls when its preamps are not already controlled via AES50. Connection to an X32 series console or another S16 in SN Master mode will always inhibit reception of preamp-related MIDI commands. The standard channel for MIDI transmit/receive is 1. MIDI channel 2 is used when the SN slave unit is to be controlled via the SN Master unit.

For testing, the string 0xEE, 0x7E, 0x7E can be sent. The expected response is 0xEE, 0x7E, 0x7F when MIDI inputs and outputs of the S16 are connected to the test interface.

7. Specifications

* incl. all channel and bus processing, excl. insert effects and line delays
AES50 is created and owned by the Audio Engineering Society. ADAT is a registered trademark of inMusic Brands, Inc. Toslink is a registered trademark of Toshiba Corporation. Cirrus Logic is a trademark of Cirrus Logic, Inc.

Important Safety Instructions

Please read and follow all safety instructions:

• Risk of Electric Shock: Do not open the unit. Terminals marked with a lightning bolt symbol (⚡) carry electrical current sufficient to pose a shock hazard. Use only high-quality professional speaker cables. Servicing should only be performed by qualified personnel.
• Dangerous Voltage: The `!` symbol alerts you to the presence of uninsulated, dangerous voltage inside the enclosure.
• Read Manual: The `ⓘ` symbol indicates important operating and maintenance instructions. Please read the manual carefully.
• Moisture and Heat: Do not expose the apparatus to rain or moisture. Do not install near heat sources.
• Servicing: Refer all servicing to qualified personnel. Do not perform any servicing other than that contained in the operation instructions.
• Power Cord: Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched.
• Attachments: Use only attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
• Grounding: Ensure the apparatus is connected to a MAINS socket outlet with a protective earthing connection.
• Polarized Plug: If the provided plug does not fit your outlet, consult an electrician.
• Lightning Storms: Unplug the apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods.

Legal Disclaimer & Limited Warranty

Technical specifications and appearances are subject to change without notice. Behringer, KLARK TEKNIK, MIDAS, BUGERA, and TURBOSOUND are part of the MUSIC Group. All trademarks are the property of their respective owners. MUSIC Group accepts no liability for loss arising from reliance on this document. Colors and specifications may vary from actual product.

For applicable warranty terms and conditions, please see complete details online at www.music-group.com/warranty.

FCC Compliance Information

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. If this equipment causes harmful interference to radio or television reception, users are encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures: reorient or relocate the receiving antenna, increase separation between equipment and receiver, connect the equipment to an outlet on a different circuit, or consult a dealer or experienced technician.

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subject to two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. Changes or modifications not expressly approved by MUSIC Group can void the user's authority to operate the equipment.

Contact & Support

BEHRINGER

DIGITAL SNAKE S16

Responsible Party Name: MUSIC Group Services US Inc.

Address: 18912 North Creek Parkway, Suite 200 Bothell, WA 98011, USA

Phone Number: +1 425 672 0816