Considerations; Ground Loops; Audio Connections; Background Noise - Ecler SMAC PRO20 Manual De Instrucciones

5. CONSIDERATIONS

5.1. Ground loops

Ensure at all times that no signal sources reaching the mixing desk and no devices
connected to its output have their earths interconnected; that is, earth should never reach them
via two or more different paths, as this coul lead to humming which could even interfere with
sound reproduction quality. In order to avoid earth loops, ensure that the shieldings of cables, if
connected to the chassis, are never connected with each other.

5.2. Audio connections

As a general rule of thumb, make the signal connections as short as possible and use
the best connectors and cable available. Cables and connectors are frequently undervaluated,
forgetting that a bad connection can result in a poor sound quality.

5.3. Background noise

The use of active circuitry can yield, depending on the configuration, to a significant
noise level. The SMAC series mixers have been designed for the minimum possible noise.
Anyway, the noise level will always depend on the correct use and installation of the mixer.
It is not the same setting up the "FADER" at "2" and the "MASTER" at "10" that the
other way round; "FADER" at "10" and "MASTER" at "2". In the PRO20 case you get a poor
signal to noise ratio that will be fully amplified by the master while on the second we have a
good signal to noise ratio only amplified by "2". As a result, the background noise is greater in
the PRO20 case than in the second one.

5.4. Cleaning

The control panel must not be cleaned with any dissolvent, abrasive or petroleum
derivated substance else paint and silk-printing could be damaged.
Whenever cleaning should be necessary use a soft cloth slightly wet with water and
neutral liquid soap or with a solution of water and alcohol at 50%. Be careful that no liquid gets
into the mixer. Never use sharp or erosive objects to scratch the control panel.
Should any liquid get into the mixer, do not use any cleaning sprays; send the unit to
the nearest ECLER Technical Service.
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