Behringer VMX200 PRO MIXER User Manual
Version 1.0, July 2001
Website: www.behringer.com
Safety Instructions
CAUTION: To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not remove the cover (or back). No user serviceable parts inside; refer servicing to qualified personnel.
WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this appliance to rain or moisture.
[Caution Symbol] This symbol, wherever it appears, alerts you to the presence of uninsulated dangerous voltage inside the enclosure—voltage that may be sufficient to constitute a risk of shock.
[Information Symbol] This symbol, wherever it appears, alerts you to important operating and maintenance instructions in the accompanying literature. Read the manual.
Detailed Safety Instructions:
- All safety and operation instructions should be read before the appliance is operated.
- Retain Instructions: The safety and operating instructions should be retained for future reference.
- Heed Warnings: All warnings on the appliance and in the operating instructions should be adhered to.
- Follow instructions: All operation and user instructions should be followed.
- Water and Moisture: The appliance should not be used near water (e.g., near a bathtub, washbowl, kitchen sink, laundry tub, in a wet basement, or near a swimming pool etc.).
- Ventilation: The appliance should be situated so that its location or position does not interfere with its proper ventilation. For example, the appliance should not be situated on a bed, sofa, rug, or similar surface that may block the ventilation openings, or placed in a built-in installation, such as a bookcase or cabinet that may impede the flow of air through the ventilation openings.
- Heat: The appliance should be situated away from heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other appliances (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
- Power Source: The appliance should be connected to a power supply only of the type described in the operating instructions or as marked on the appliance.
- Grounding or Polarization: Precautions should be taken so that the grounding or polarization means of an appliance is not defeated.
- Power-Cord Protection: Power supply cords should be routed so that they are not likely to be walked on or pinched by items placed upon or against them, paying particular attention to cords and plugs, convenience receptacles and the point where they exit from the appliance.
- Cleaning: The appliance should be cleaned only as recommended by the manufacturer.
- Non-use Periods: The power cord of the appliance should be unplugged from the outlet when left unused for a long period of time.
- Debris and Liquid Entry: Care should be taken that debris and/or liquids do not enter the enclosure through openings.
- Damage Requiring Service: The appliance should be serviced by qualified service personnel when:
- The power supply cord or the plug has been damaged; or
- Debris or liquid has entered the appliance; or
- The appliance has been exposed to rain; or
- The appliance does not appear to operate normally or exhibits a marked change in performance; or
- The appliance has been dropped, or the enclosure damaged.
- Servicing: The user should not attempt to service the appliance beyond that which is described in the operating instructions. All other servicing should be referred to qualified service personnel.
Foreword
Dear Customer,
Welcome to the team of PRO MIXER users and thank you for demonstrating your faith in us by purchasing the BEHRINGER VMX200.
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
PRO MIXER VMX200 Features
Professional 2-channel ultra low-noise DJ mixer
- Intelligent dual auto-BPM counter with time and beat sync display
- Super-smooth Ultraglide faders with up to 500,000 life cycles
- Awesome QRS 3D surround effect
- Dedicated curve control for all faders
- VCA engines for utmost reliability and smooth audio performance
- Gain and 3-band kill EQ (-32 dB) per stereo channel
- Auto-talkover function with separate depth control
- Extremely precise assignable level meter with peak hold function
- Professional crossfader reverse switch
- 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 ISO9000 certified management system
Introduction
With the BEHRINGER PRO MIXER VMX200, you have purchased an absolutely state-of-the-art DJ mixer. Its extensive features, i.e. beat counter and effects loop, 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 VMX200 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 into 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 VMX200 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 VMX200'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 VMX200. 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.
[Information Symbol] 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!
[Information Symbol] 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.
Front Panel
Fig. 2.1 Front view of the PRO MIXER VMX200
The front panel of the Behringer VMX200 PRO MIXER features two main input channels, a dedicated microphone channel, a PFL (Pre-Fader Listening) section, a Main Out section, a beat counter display, and a crossfader section.
Channel 1 and Channel 2 Controls: Each channel includes a PHONO/LINE switch, a GAIN control, a 3-band EQ with HIGH, MID, and LOW frequency adjustments, a LEVEL control, and a ULTRAGLIDE fader with a CURVE switch (SOFT, MID, SHARP) located beneath it.
Microphone Section: Features a MIC INPUT (balanced 1/4" TRS socket), a LEVEL control for microphone volume, and an ON switch to activate the microphone.
PFL Section: Includes a LEVEL control for headphone volume, a MIX control to fade between channels 1 and 2 (in STEREO mode) or separate them (in SPLIT mode), a LEVEL METER to display signal levels, and a MAIN/PFL button to select which signal is displayed.
Main Out Section: Features a LEVEL control to adjust the overall output volume.
Talkover Function: Activated by speaking into the microphone, it automatically reduces music volume. The TALK control adjusts the depth of this reduction (up to -24 dB).
QRS 3D Surround Function: A built-in effect to widen the stereo image. Controlled by the SURROUND knob and activated via an ON button.
Beat Counter: Dual auto-BPM counters for channels 1 and 2 display track tempi in BPM. Features SYNC LOCK buttons to limit tempo range and BEAT ASSIST buttons for manual tempo setting (tap tempo). TEMPO DIFFERENCE and TIME OFFSET LED displays indicate synchronization status.
Crossfader Section: Equipped with a 45-mm VCA-controlled ULTRAGLIDE crossfader. Includes a REVERSE switch (TAP/HOLD) to invert crossfader direction and a CROSSFADER CURVE control to adjust the crossfader response.
Additional Front Panel Connections: HEADPHONES socket for monitoring.
Inset Diagram Description: An inset shows rear panel connections accessible from the front: PHONES, OUT, MIC IN, AMP, TAPE, EFFECTS SEND, EFFECTS RETURN.
Specifications
Feature | Specification |
---|---|
AUDIO INPUTS | |
Mic input | 40 dB gain, servo-balanced |
Phono inputs 1 and 2 | 40 dB gain @ 1 kHz, unbalanced |
Line inputs 1 and 2 | 0 dB Gain, unbalanced |
Return | 0 dB Gain, unbalanced |
AUDIO OUTPUTS | |
Main Out | max. +21 dBu @ +10 dBu (Line In) |
Tape Out | typically 0 dBu |
Send | typically 0 dBu |
Headphones | typically 125mW @ 1 % THD |
EQUALIZER (+/-8 dB) | |
Stereo Low | +12 dB/-32 dB @ 50 Hz |
Stereo Mid | +12 dB/-32 dB @ 1.2 kHz |
Stereo High | +12 dB/-32 dB @ 10 kHz |
Mic Low | +12 dB/-12 dB @ 50 Hz |
Mic High | +12 dB/-12 dB @ 10 kHz |
GENERAL | |
Signal-to-noise ratio (S/N) | > 86 dB (Line) |
Crosstalk | > 77 dB (Line) |
Distortion (THD) | < 0,06% |
Frequency response | 20 Hz - 20 kHz |
Input gain adjustment | -20 dB - +9 dB |
POWER SUPPLY | |
AC voltage | USA/Canada: 120 V ~, 60 Hz, fuse T 400 mA H U.K./Australia: 240 V ~, 50 Hz, fuse T 250 mA H Europe: 230 V ~, 50 Hz, fuse T 250 mA H |
DIMENSIONS AND WEIGHT | |
Dimensions (H x W x D) | approx. 3 1/2" (88 mm) x 8" (203 mm) x 11" (280 mm) |
Weight | approx. 2.5 kg (5 lbs. 8 oz) |
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.
Rear Panel
Fig 3.1: Rear view of the PRO MIXER VMX200
The rear panel of the VMX200 houses most of the audio connections, primarily using RCA connectors, along with the power switch and fuse holder.
- POWER: The main POWER ON switch.
- AMP OUT: Connects the VMX200 to an amplifier. Level is controlled by the MAIN OUT LEVEL control.
- TAPE OUT: For recording performances. The level is fixed and must be adjusted on the recorder.
- EFFECTS SEND: Sends the selected PFL signal to an external effects device (e.g., reverb unit).
- EFFECTS RETURN: Receives the processed signal from an external effects device, or can be used as an additional input for a sampler.
- GND: Ground connection, typically for turntables.
- LINE INPUTS 1 & 2: For connecting sources like CD players, MD players, or tape decks.
- PHONO INPUTS 1 & 2: Primarily intended for turntables.
- PHONO/LINE switch: Allows the PHONO inputs to be set to line level, enabling connection of other line-level sources like CD or MD players.
- FUSE HOLDER/VOLTAGE SELECTOR: For connecting the unit to an AC outlet and replacing the fuse. It may allow switching between 230 V and 115 V by rotating the fuse holder. Note: For 115 V operation, a fuse with double the ampere rating must be installed.
- SERIAL NUMBER / DATE CODE: Fields for product identification.
Power-Up Procedure Note: To avoid power-up thumps that can damage loudspeakers, power up your amplifier last. Ensure no signal is present and all volume controls are set to zero before powering up the amplifier.
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. Failure to return the card in due time will void any extended warranty claims. Alternatively, online registration is available via the Internet at www.behringer.com or www.behringer.de.
§ 2 WARRANTY
- BEHRINGER 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. If the product shows any defects within the specified warranty period that are not due to normal wear and tear and/or improper handling, BEHRINGER shall, at its sole discretion, either repair or replace the product.
- If the warranty claim proves to be justified, the product will be returned to the user freight prepaid.
- Warranty claims other than those indicated above are expressly excluded.
§ 3 RETURN AUTHORIZATION NUMBER
- To obtain warranty service, the buyer (or their authorized dealer) must call BEHRINGER 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.
- Subsequently, the product must be returned in its original shipping carton, together with the return authorization number to the address indicated by BEHRINGER.
- Shipments without freight prepaid will not be accepted.
§ 4 WARRANTY REGULATIONS
- 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.
- If the product needs to be modified or adapted to comply with applicable technical or safety standards in a country other than the one for which it was originally developed, this modification/adaptation shall not be considered a defect in materials or workmanship. The warranty does not cover any such modification/adaptation. BEHRINGER shall not be held responsible for any cost resulting from such a modification/adaptation.
- Free inspections and maintenance/repair work are expressly excluded from this warranty, particularly if caused by improper handling by the user. This also applies to defects caused by normal wear and tear, especially of faders, potentiometers, keys/buttons, and similar parts.
- 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.
- Any repair or opening of the unit carried out by unauthorized personnel (user included) will void the warranty.
- 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.
- 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 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
- 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.
- 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