Behringer PRO MIXER VMX100

Foreword

Dear Customer,

Welcome to the team of PRO MIXER users and thank you for demonstrating your faith in us by purchasing the BEHRINGER VMX100.

Writing this foreword to you is an extremely pleasant task. After several months of intensive brainstorming and the subsequent realization of their ideas, our engineers finally achieved an ambitious goal: the construction of an outstanding DJ MIXER, which, due to its remarkable functions, provides maximum flexibility and impressive performance. As with any new product, the development of this new PRO MIXER also meant a great deal of responsibility. Throughout the entire planning and development phases, we kept you—the discerning end-user and DJ, your requirements and your requests—at the focal point of our considerations. Meeting your professional expectations required a lot of effort and more than a few night shifts, but this is exactly the kind of challenge that keeps us alive and kicking. Developing a new product always brings a large number of people together, and it's a great feeling when all involved can take pride in the results.

It is an important part of our philosophy to share our gratification with you, since you're the most important member of the BEHRINGER team. With your highly competent suggestions for new products, you've contributed immensely to the development and success of our company. In return, we bring you uncompromising quality, guaranteed by the stringent BEHRINGER quality control system, as well as excellent technical and audio specifications, at an extremely favorable price. We hope that this will enable you to fully unfold your creativity without being hampered by budget constraints.

We are often asked how we manage to produce such high-grade devices at such unbelievably low prices. The answer is quite simple: it's you, our customers! Lots of satisfied customers means large sales volumes, which in turn enables us to reduce production and logistics expenses. We believe it's only fair to pass this benefit back to you—after all, your success is our success!

I would like to thank everyone who helped make our new PRO MIXER project possible and successful. Each of those people made very personal contributions, from our engineers and designers to our numerous staff members and finally to you as a BEHRINGER user.

My friends, it's been worth the trouble!

Thank you very much,
Uli Behringer

Key Features

• Intelligent dual auto-BPM counter with time and beat sync display
• Super-smooth Ultraglide faders with up to 500,000 life cycles
• Crossfader curve control
• Gain and 2-band kill EQ (-32 dB) per channel
• Extremely precise assignable level meter with peak hold function
• Extremely low-noise ULN-(Ultra-Low Noise) design, like those on professional studio consoles
• Gold-plated cinch sockets for excellent audio qualities
• Super-rugged construction ensures long life, even under the most demanding conditions
• Manufactured under the ISO9000 certified management system

1. Introduction

With the BEHRINGER PRO MIXER VMX100, you have purchased an absolutely state-of-the-art DJ mixer. Its extensive features open the door to new and creative ways of working, while making it suitable for a variety of professional applications. At the same time, the VMX100 is extremely easy to operate, allowing you to completely unfold your creativity.

Time waits for no one, and neither you nor we want to be left behind. That's why we invested months of research and development in creating a DJ mixer that offers up-to-date features and technology to give you a true cutting edge for your performances. Fully optimized for dance club applications and DJ systems, the VMX100 promises full-blown DJ'ing fun and success.

Let's be honest: nobody likes reading users' manuals. We know you want to plug in and get jammin', but please take the time to read the following instructions. We've kept them as short as possible, and it will be well worth the few minutes it takes you. Armed with a thorough understanding of the VMX100's features and functions, you'll be able to get the most out of this exciting product.

The following instructions will give you a brief run-down on the terminology and functions of the VMX100. After reading, please store this manual in a safe place for future reference.

1.1 Before you get started

Your PRO MIXER was carefully packed in the factory and the packaging is designed to protect the unit against rough handling. Nevertheless, we recommend that you carefully examine packaging and contents for any signs of physical damage which may have occurred during transit.

❗ If the unit is damaged, please do not return it to BEHRINGER, but notify your dealer and the shipping company immediately. Otherwise, claims for damage or replacement may not be granted. Shipping claims must be made by the consignee.

Please take care to always ensure adequate ventilation. Do not place the PRO MIXER near heating units or heat-generating devices in order to avoid overheating.

CAUTION!

❗ We would like to point out that high volumes can permanently damage your sense of hearing and/or your headphone or speaker systems. Therefore, please turn the MAIN control in the MIC/MAIN section all the way to the left before turning on the mixer. And please exercise caution and common sense when setting volume levels.

2. Front Panel

2.1 Input channels 1 and 2

❗ Never connect line-level equipment to the highly sensitive phono inputs! The output levels of phono cartridge systems are in the millivolt range, whereas CD and MD players, as well as tape decks, provide outputs levels in the volt range. In other words, the level of line signals is up to 100 times higher than phono output levels.

2 The GAIN control is used to adjust the input signal level.

❗ The overall level of your signal is also effected by the EQ settings. It's a good idea to adjust the equalizer before you set the level with the GAIN control.

3 Each of the two input channels is equipped with a 2-BAND EQUALIZER with kill characteristic. The maximum amount of attenuation (-32 dB) is much higher than the maximum boost (+12 dB), allowing entire frequency spectrums to be "removed" from a track.

4 The CHANNEL fader adjusts the final channel volume.

2.2 PFL section (Pre Fader Listening)

The PFL signal is a pre-fader headphones signal, enabling you to pre-listen to a signal source without effecting the main signal.

5 The LEVEL control determines the volume of the headphones signal.

6 The MIX control lets you fade between channels 1 and 2.

7 The LEVEL METER displays the level of the signal selected via the MAIN/PFL button (8).

8 The MAIN/PFL button allows you to route either the main or PFL signal to the display. Remember: "PFL" is your pre-listening or headphone signal and "MAIN" is the signal assigned to the outputs of the VMX100.

❗ In PFL mode, the channel 1 signal is displayed on the left side of the LEVEL METER, and channel 2 on the right.

2.3 MIC/MAIN section

9 The MAIN knob controls the overall output volume.

10 The MIC LEVEL control adjusts the volume of the microphone signal.

2.4 Beat counter

The PRO MIXER VMX100's built-in beat counter is an extremely useful feature, allowing smooth crossfades between two tracks—an important key to the success of your performance. The beat counter analyzes and displays the tempi of your tracks in BPM (Beats Per Minute). The beat counter sections of channel 1 and 2 are identical.

The tempo of the track is shown in the respective channel's DISPLAY (11). In the case of multiple tempo changes, the display would change continuously, causing unnecessary confusion and rendering the function virtually useless. Enter the SYNC LOCK button (12): with it, you can limit the range of possible tempo values within a song. Pressing this button once the counter has "caught" and displayed a realistic value will simplify things. The BEAT ASSIST button (13) allows you to set the beat counter's tempo manually, similar to "tap tempo". Pressing the button three times in time with the track will set the beat counter and its display at that tempo. The BEAT ASSISST and SYNC LOCK buttons are each equipped with an LED to show that the respective function is activated.

Once the tempo of the two tracks have been determined and locked with the SYNC LOCK or BEAT ASSIST buttons, the tempo difference between channel 1 and 2 will be depicted via the 9-segment TEMPO DIFFERENCE LED display (14). It shows the degree of the tempo difference by a respective deflection to the right (channel 2 track is faster) or to the left (channel 2 track is faster). The center LED lights when the tempi are equal. The TIME OFFSET LED display (15) below the TEMPO DIFFERENCE display shows the synchronization of channel 1 and 2. When the center LED is lit, the tracks are in sync with each other. When the display moves to the left or right, the corresponding channel is running out of sync. The TEMPO DIFFERENCE and TIME OFFSET displays are only active when the tempi of both channels have been locked as explained above. To exit the SYNC LOCK or BEAT ASSIST mode, simply press the SYNC LOCK key in both channels again.

2.5 Crossfader section

16 The CROSSFADER is used to fade between channels 1 and 2.

17 The CURVE switch, located on the left side of the CROSSFADER, enables you to select between two crossfade modes: SOFT and SHARP. In SOFT mode the crossfader fades between the channels in a linear, continuous manner. This mode is recommended for slower, smoother crossfades. In SHARP mode the crossfader takes on a more logarithmic effect, working faster towards the outer edges of the fader range. Use this mode for faster, hard crossfades.

❗ Flipping the CURVE switch may cause a sudden change in volume. We recommend not changing this setting while a signal is present.

18 The MIC INPUT connector is a balanced 1/4" TRS socket for microphone connection.

❗ We strongly recommend the use of high-grade cables and connectors for the transmission of audio signals. Inferior quality materials cannot supply acceptable audio quality or corrosion protection.

19 The HEADPHONES socket allows you to connect your headphones for pre-listening (PFL signal). For best results, use headphones with an impedance rating of at least 32 Ohms.

3. Rear Panel

With the exception of MIC INPUT and HEADPHONES, all of the VMX100's audio connections are located on the rear panel and supplied as RCA connectors.

22 The GND connection allows grounding of a turntable.

23 Use the AMP output to connect the VMX100 to an amplifier. The level is controlled by the MAIN knob in the MIC/MAIN section.

❗ In order to avoid power-up thumps, which can damage your loudspeakers, please power up your amplifier last. There should be no signal present, e.g. no music playing, when you turn on your amp. In addition, we suggest that you set all volume-related controls to "zero" (down) before powering up your system. Following these precautions will save you from unpleasant and potentially dangerous surprises.

24 The TAPE output enables you to record your performance by connecting a tape deck, DAT recorder etc. Unlike the AMP output, the TAPE level is fixed, so that you have to adjust the input level on the recorder.

25 The POWER ON switch turns on the PRO MIXER.

26 FUSE HOLDER/VOLTAGE SELECTOR. Before you connect the equipment to an AC outlet, please be sure that the voltage displayed corresponds with your local AC voltage. If you should need to replace the fuse, be sure to replace it with one of the same type and value. Some units allow you to switch between 230 V and 115 V by rotating the fuse holder.

❗ To operate the unit at 115 V, you must install a fuse with the double ampere rating.

27 This is the socket for the power cable. The impulse behavior of any given amplifier circuit depends largely upon the power supply's inherent reserves. All mixers contain numerous operational amplifiers (op-amps) for processing line-level signals. Due to the restricted performance of their power supplies, many mixers show "stress symptoms" when used under extreme conditions, resulting in inferior audio quality. Thanks to its generously proportioned power supply, this will never happen to your VMX100: The sound will always be clear, transparent and powerful.

28 SERIAL NUMBER. Please take the time to fill out and return the warranty card within 14 days after the date of purchase. This will entitle you to all the benefits of our extended warranty. Alternatively, you can register online at www.behringer.com.

4. Specifications

BEHRINGER is constantly striving to maintain the highest professional standards. As a result of these efforts, modifications may be made from time to time to existing products without prior notice. Specifications and appearance may differ from those listed or illustrated.

5. Warranty

§ 1 WARRANTY CARD/ONLINE REGISTRATION

To be protected by the extended warranty, the buyer must complete and return the enclosed warranty card within 14 days of the date of purchase to BEHRINGER Spezielle Studiotechnik GmbH, in accordance with the conditions stipulated in § 3. Failure to return the card in due time (date as per postmark) will void any extended warranty claims.

Based on the conditions herein, the buyer may also choose to use the online registration option via the Internet (www.behringer.com or www.behringer.de).

§ 2 WARRANTY

1. BEHRINGER (BEHRINGER Spezielle Studiotechnik GmbH including all BEHRINGER subsidiaries listed on the enclosed page, except BEHRINGER Japan) warrants the mechanical and electronic components of this product to be free of defects in material and workmanship for a period of one (1) year from the original date of purchase, in accordance with the warranty regulations described below. If the product shows any defects within the specified warranty period that are not due to normal wear and tear and/or improper handling by the user, BEHRINGER shall, at its sole discretion, either repair or replace the product.
2. If the warranty claim proves to be justified, the product will be returned to the user freight prepaid.
3. Warranty claims other than those indicated above are expressly excluded.

§ 3 RETURN AUTHORIZATION NUMBER

1. To obtain warranty service, the buyer (or his authorized dealer) must call BEHRINGER (see enclosed list) during normal business hours BEFORE returning the product. All inquiries must be accompanied by a description of the problem. BEHRINGER will then issue a return authorization number.
2. Subsequently, the product must be returned in its original shipping carton, together with the return authorization number to the address indicated by BEHRINGER.
3. Shipments without freight prepaid will not be accepted.

§ 4 WARRANTY REGULATIONS

1. Warranty services will be furnished only if the product is accompanied by a copy of the original retail dealer's invoice. Any product deemed eligible for repair or replacement by BEHRINGER under the terms of this warranty will be repaired or replaced within 30 days of receipt of the product at BEHRINGER.
2. If the product needs to be modified or adapted in order to comply with applicable technical or safety standards on a national or local level, in any country which is not the country for which the product was originally developed and manufactured, this modification/adaptation shall not be considered a defect in materials or workmanship. The warranty does not cover any such modification/adaptation, irrespective of whether it was carried out properly or not. Under the terms of this warranty, BEHRINGER shall not be held responsible for any cost resulting from such a modification/adaptation.
3. Free inspections and maintenance/repair work are expressly excluded from this warranty, in particular, if caused by improper handling of the product by the user. This also applies to defects caused by normal wear and tear, in particular, of faders, potentiometers, keys/buttons and similar parts.
4. Damages/defects caused by the following conditions are not covered by this warranty:
   • misuse, neglect or failure to operate the unit in compliance with the instructions given in BEHRINGER user or service manuals.
   • connection or operation of the unit in any way that does not comply with the technical or safety regulations applicable in the country where the product is used.
   • damages/defects caused by force majeure or any other condition that is beyond the control of BEHRINGER.
5. Any repair or opening of the unit carried out by unauthorized personnel (user included) will void the warranty.
6. If an inspection of the product by BEHRINGER shows that the defect in question is not covered by the warranty, the inspection costs are payable by the customer.
7. Products which do not meet the terms of this warranty will be repaired exclusively at the buyer's expense. BEHRINGER will inform the buyer of any such circumstance. If the buyer fails to submit a written repair order within 6 weeks after notification, BEHRINGER will return the unit C.O.D. with a separate invoice for freight and packing. Such costs will also be invoiced separately when the buyer has sent in a written repair order.

§ 5 WARRANTY TRANSFERABILITY

This warranty is extended exclusively to the original buyer (customer of retail dealer) and is not transferable to anyone who may subsequently purchase this product. No other person (retail dealer, etc.) shall be entitled to give any warranty promise on behalf of BEHRINGER.

§ 6 CLAIM FOR DAMAGES

Failure of BEHRINGER to provide proper warranty service shall not entitle the buyer to claim (consequential) damages. In no event shall the liability of BEHRINGER exceed the invoiced value of the product.

§ 7 OTHER WARRANTY RIGHTS AND NATIONAL LAW

1. This warranty does not exclude or limit the buyer's statutory rights provided by national law, in particular, any such rights against the seller that arise from a legally effective purchase contract.
2. The warranty regulations mentioned herein are applicable unless they constitute an infringement of national warranty law.

The information contained in this manual is subject to change without notice. No part of this manual may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying and recording of any kind, for any purpose, without the express written permission of BEHRINGER Spezielle Studiotechnik GmbH.

BEHRINGER is a registered trademark. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. © 2001 BEHRINGER Spezielle Studiotechnik GmbH.

BEHRINGER Spezielle Studiotechnik GmbH, Hanns-Martin-Schleyer-Str. 36-38, 47877 Willich-Münchheide II, Germany
Tel. +49 (0) 21 54 / 92 06-0, Fax +49 (0) 21 54 / 92 06-30