Mackie Musical Instrument DX8 User Manual
DX8 Digital Audio Mixer/  
Signal Processor  
with Automixing  
Instruction Manual  
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SERIAL NUMBER  
MANUFACTURING DATE  
DX8 DIGITAL MIXER  
DIRECT OUTPUTS  
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THE FOLLOWING ARE TRADEMARKS OR REGISTERED  
TRADEMARKS OF MACKIE DESIGNS INC "MACKIE",  
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INPUTS  
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"MACKIE INDUSTRIAL", AND THE "RUNNING MAN" FIGURE  
CONCEIVED, DESIGNED, AND MANUFACTURED  
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BY MACKIE DESIGNS INC WOODINVILLE  
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USA  
-20 +20  
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MADE IN USA FABRIQUE AU USA  
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COPYRIGHT ©1999  
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OUTPUTS  
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MIC  
MIC  
MIC  
MIC  
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MIC  
MIC  
MIC  
REMOTE BUS  
OUTPUTS  
COMM PORT  
LOGIC I/O  
MIC  
POWER  
INPUT  
28V DC,  
3A MAX  
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PHANTOM POWER  
48V DC  
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ON  
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240V  
,
50/60Hz, 1A MAX  
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LISTED COMMERCIAL  
AUDIO EQUIPMENT  
9Z39  
RECORD  
LINE  
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2. INTRODUCTION  
and 4-Switch (DX-SW4) versions and may be  
combined in any configuration.  
The DX8 is a DSP-based digital audio mixer and  
signal processor designed for use in a variety of  
installations such as churches, courtrooms,  
The DX8 is supplied with PC software that  
allows access to all of the system’s settings and  
configurations. The software offers access to the  
Automixing controls, two 1/3-octave equalizers, two  
5-band parametric equalizers, and two compressors  
dedicated to the two master outputs. In addition, it  
allows configuration and recall of up to 16 Presets, 8  
input Priority Levels, 8 Mute Groups, and 8 Control  
Groups. Force ON and OFF functions are provided,  
with a selection of Relative or Absolute changes,  
which can be used with the Priority settings to  
create sophisticated audio management systems.  
All settings and text labels are retained in the DX8,  
and can be saved on the computer’s local drive.  
The DX8 is UL and CE approved and designed  
for continuous use in professional fixed installation  
systems. An internal auto-ranging power supply  
allows connection to mains voltages from 90-240V AC  
at 50/60 Hz without requiring jumper or switch  
setting changes. A 24 VDC input is provided for  
applications where backup power is required.  
Switchover to backup power is automatic and silent.  
convention centers, and hotels. It provides eight  
universal inputs and two balanced outputs allowing  
true 8x2 mixing for stereo or dual-zone applications.  
The DX8 includes powerful signal processing  
software to complement the 8x2 mixing structure.  
Automixing capability allows the DX8 to be setup for  
applications where a human operator is not available.  
Each of the eight input channels is terminated to  
two Phoenix-type detachable connectors. Each  
connector is optimized to accept either microphone  
or line-level signals. Microphone preamplifiers  
employ Mackie’s proprietary XDR™ technology to  
offer studio-class audio performance. Phantom  
power of 48 VDC is switchable individually on each  
input. Two auxiliary line-level inputs with trim are  
provided, allowing analog signals to be mixed with  
the A and B master mixes. Master outputs deliver  
balanced line-level signals to detachable Phoenix-  
type connectors as well as buffered unbalanced  
signals to RCA connectors intended for recording.  
The DX8 offers an intuitive front panel user  
interface, consisting of dual-function LED bar graph  
meters for each input and output. Input meters  
indicate the presence of signal before signal pro-  
cessing (pre-fader), while output meters indicate  
actual level at the output (post-fader). Levels are set  
by means of UP/DOWN pushbuttons dedicated to  
each input and output. A MODE button is used to  
select between Mix A and B, allowing adjustment  
of levels to both mix outputs from the same set of  
input controls. A third function of the MODE button  
allows the user to LOCK the front panel controls  
until a security unlock code is entered.  
The DX8 offers flexible interface options through  
dedicated inputs and outputs for control and  
programming purposes. Two independent RS232  
connectors are provided, one on the front panel and  
one on the rear, for connection to a computer or  
control system. A multi-pin (DB25F) connector on  
the rear panel allows interface among the 10 Logic  
Inputs and 10 Logic Outputs. This interface  
KEY FEATURES  
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32-bit DSP and 24-bit Analog/Digital Conversion  
8 balanced XDR™ Mic/Line inputs with trim  
2 balanced Line inputs direct to mix buses A and B  
2 Independent Mix Buses and balanced Outputs  
2 unbalanced Record Outputs  
8 unbalanced Direct Channel Outputs  
Individual Level/Peak (PPM) metering on each Input and Output  
3-band sweepable Hi/Lo shelving and mid-peaking EQ  
on each Input  
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2-band sweepable shelving EQ on each Output  
31-band Graphic EQ on each Output  
5-band Parametric EQ on each Output  
One fully variable Compressor on each Output  
Independent Automixing function for each Output to maximize  
acoustic gain and prevent feedback  
connects to switches, LEDs, and other devices,  
enabling hardware control and indication from  
custom control panels. All logic inputs and outputs  
are fully programmable in software. A proprietary  
remote control bus allows connection of the  
optional wired remotes over three-conductor cable.  
Remotes are available in Volume Control (DX-RVC)  
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10 Programmable Logic Inputs  
10 Programmable Logic Outputs  
2 independent RS-232 interface ports  
48 VDC Phantom Power switch per input  
24 VDC Backup Power input  
Hardware Expansion Port accepts optional modules  
PC Software application included  
Part No. SW0065 Rev. A 05/03  
© 2001-2003 Mackie Designs Inc. All Rights Reserved.  
DX8 – 3  
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FRONT PANEL FEATURES  
INPUT UP/DOWN BUTTONS  
EQ LED DISPLAY  
Use these buttons to adjust the mix level for each  
input channel.  
When an EQ UP/DOWN button is pressed, the EQ  
meter indicates the amount of boost or cut of the  
LO and HI frequencies in decibels ( 15 dB).  
INPUT LED DISPLAY  
When both "0" LEDs are lit, the gain is set to unity  
(flat response).  
This indicates the signal level after the mic preamp  
stage, just after the A/D converter, but prior to any  
digital signal processing. When any input UP/  
DOWN button is pressed, all the meters (except  
EQ) switch from level metering to level setting  
indication. After five seconds, the meters switch  
back to normal peak program metering (PPM).  
Note: The EQ meters do not indicate signal level.  
MASTER A/B UP/DOWN BUTTONS  
These buttons adjust the output level for each  
output bus.  
When the 10 and 7 LEDs are both lit, the gain is set  
to unity (0 dB).  
MASTER OUTPUT LED DISPLAY  
This indicates the signal level after the digital signal  
processing and MASTER gain stage, just prior to  
the D/A converter. When any MASTER UP/DOWN  
button is pressed, all the meters (except EQ) switch  
from level metering to level setting indication. After  
five seconds, the meters switch back to normal  
peak program metering (PPM).  
EQ LO/HI UP/DOWN BUTTONS  
Use these buttons to adjust the gain of the 2-band  
shelving EQ on the outputs. The range is 15 dB.  
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SERIAL NUMBER  
MANUFACTURING DATE  
DX8 DIGITAL MIXER  
DIRECT OUTPUTS  
U
U
U
U
U
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U
U
U
U
M
THE FOLLOWING ARE TRADEMARKS OR REGISTERED  
TRADEMARKS OF MACKIE DESIGNS INC "MACKIE",  
"MACKIE INDUSTRIAL", AND THE "RUNNING MAN" FIGURE  
CONCEIVED, DESIGNED, AND MANUFACTURED  
BY MACKIE DESIGNS INC WOODINVILLE • WA • USA  
MADE IN USA • FABRIQUE AU USA • COPYRIGHT ©1999  
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POWER  
INPUT  
28V DC,  
3A MAX  
–
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LINE  
+
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100 –240V , 50/60Hz, 1A MAX  
+
LISTED COMMERCIAL  
AUDIO EQUIPMENT  
9Z39  
LINE  
LINE  
LINE  
LINE  
LINE  
LINE  
LINE  
LINE  
LINE  
LINE  
R
DX8 – 4  
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REAR PANEL FEATURES  
MODE  
This switch changes the front panel operation  
between Bus A and Bus B operation. In addition,  
the LOCK position disables the front panel controls  
to prevent unauthorized changes to the settings. A  
security code must be entered to enable the front  
panel controls when the DX8 is locked. See page 17  
for more information on locking and unlocking the DX8.  
INPUTS 1-8  
Each of the eight analog inputs has separate  
balanced mic and line input connectors that use  
Mackie’s acclaimed XDR mic preamps. These are 3-  
pin Phoenix-type connectors. Use either the MIC or  
LINE input, but only one can be used per channel.  
TRIM  
COMM PORT  
This rotary analog control is used to trim the gain of  
the input signal for optimum signal-to-noise ratio in  
the preamp stage. For mic-level signals, it provides  
from 0 to +60 dB of gain. For line-level signals, it  
provides from –30 dB to +30 dB of gain, with unity  
(0 dB) at the center position. This control accepts a  
maximum input signal of +18 dBu before clipping  
(at unity gain).  
This is an RS-232 port on a 9-pin D-Sub connector,  
which connects to a personal computer or other  
compatible control system for external control of  
the DX8 settings. A second COMM port on the rear  
panel duplicates this function, for permanent  
connection to an installed controller.  
POWER  
Use the POWER switch to turn the DX8 on and off.  
PHANTOM POWER  
These switches apply phantom power (+48 VDC) to  
pins 2 and 3 of the selected mic input connectors.  
Switch the PHANTOM POWER switch in the UP  
position for an individual channel when using a  
condenser microphone.  
BUS A/B INPUTS  
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These analog inputs accept balanced line-  
level signals and route the signal to the  
internal buses. These inputs may serve as  
additional zone inputs for program devices,  
or to connect the BUS A and BUS B  
outputs from another DX8. There is no DSP  
processing on these inputs.  
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DX8 DIGITAL MIXER  
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B
LOCK  
MODE  
A
MASTER  
B
BUS A and B TRIM  
COMM PORT  
POWER  
These rotary analog controls are used to  
trim the gain of the inputs to the buses.  
This trim control provides from –20 dB to  
+20 dB of gain, with unity (0 dB) at the  
center-detent position.  
DIRECT OUTPUTS  
This 15-pin D-Sub connector supplies an  
analog, unbalanced line-level signal from  
each of the eight program inputs, post-  
preamp and pre-processing. Use these  
outputs to connect to another mixing  
console for additional zone coverage, to a  
telephone system for music-on-hold, or to  
a multi-track recorder. See page 12 for the  
Direct Output pinouts.  
TURING DATE  
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OUTPUTS  
LOGIC I/O  
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REMOTE BUS  
OUTPUTS  
COMM PORT  
PHANTOM POWER  
48V DC  
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RECORD  
LINE  
DX8 – 5  
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remote controls can be connected to each other in  
a daisy-chain fashion to extend the remote control  
functionality of the DX8.  
RECORD Out  
These RCA connectors supply unbalanced line-level  
signals from the BUS A and BUS B outputs. Use  
these outputs to connect to the inputs of a  
recorder, or as additional line-level outputs to  
connect to an external power amplifier. The signals  
are the same as the main outputs.  
COMM PORT  
This is identical to the COMM PORT on the front  
panel. Use this to connect to an RS-232 serial port  
on a personal computer or third-party controller (i.e.,  
show controller) for external control of the DX8.  
OUTPUTS A/B  
These 3-pin Phoenix-type connectors supply a  
balanced line-level signal from BUS A and BUS B  
EXPANSION SLOT  
.
The optional DX10e card can be installed here. It  
provides eight additional independent balanced  
output mixes.  
LOGIC I/O  
This 25-pin D-Sub connector provides 10 logic  
control inputs and 10 logic control outputs (open-  
collector). These inputs can be used to control a  
wide variety of DX8 functions via external  
switching. The outputs can be used to provide logic  
for external indicators for a number of internal  
settings and conditions. The function of each logic  
input and output can be programmed via software  
to suit individual applications. See page 13 for the  
Logic I/O pinouts.  
24 VDC POWER  
The DX8 can be powered using a 24 VDC power  
supply. This can serve as the primary power supply  
for the DX8, or as a backup supply in case of an AC  
power failure. The DX8 seamlessly switches to the  
backup supply if there’s a power loss. When both  
AC power and 24V DC power are connected, the  
AC power is used and no current is drawn from the  
DC supply.  
REMOTE BUS  
IEC AC Socket  
This 3-pin Phoenix-type connector can be used to  
attach optional remote controls to the DX8. Several  
Connect the supplied AC linecord to the IEC AC  
socket.  
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SERIAL NUMBER  
MANUFACTURING DATE  
DX8 DIGITAL MIXER  
DIRECT OUTPUTS  
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
THE FOLLOWING ARE TRADEMARKS OR REGISTERED  
TRADEMARKS OF MACKIE DESIGNS INC "MACKIE",  
"MACKIE INDUSTRIAL", AND THE "RUNNING MAN" FIGURE  
12  
G
INPUTS  
1
+5V  
+
–
G
CONCEIVED, DESIGNED, AND MANUFACTURED  
USA  
0
60  
0
60  
0
60  
0
60  
0
60  
0
60  
0
60  
0
60  
BY MACKIE DESIGNS INC WOODINVILLE  
•
WA  
•
-20 +20  
-20 +20  
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
MADE IN USA  
•
FABRIQUE AU USA  
•
COPYRIGHT ©1999  
30dB +30dB  
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TRIM  
BUS B  
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OUTPUTS  
LOGIC I/O  
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MIC  
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MIC  
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MIC  
MIC  
MIC  
REMOTE BUS  
OUTPUTS  
COMM PORT  
MIC  
POWER  
INPUT  
22-28V DC,  
3A MAX  
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–
LINE  
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PHANTOM POWER  
48V DC  
G
+
–
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+
–
A
B
A
B
–
ON  
100  
–
240V  
,
50/60Hz, 1A MAX  
+
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
LISTED COMMERCIAL  
AUDIO EQUIPMENT  
9Z39  
RECORD  
LINE  
LINE  
LINE  
LINE  
LINE  
LINE  
LINE  
LINE  
LINE  
LINE  
R
SIGNAL-FLOW DIAGRAM  
Channel  
Meter  
AUTO  
ALC  
ALC  
(Automix)  
5-Band  
31-Band  
ALC  
ALC  
Parametric  
EQ  
Bus A  
Graphic EQ  
Channel  
Faders to  
A & B  
Analog  
Input  
CH 1  
Analog-to-  
Digital  
Converter  
3-Band  
EQ  
Mute  
5-Band  
Parametric  
EQ  
31-Band  
Graphic EQ  
Bus B  
AUTO  
(Automix)  
Channels  
2-8  
CH 1  
Direct  
Output  
Lo-Shelf  
Hi-Shelf  
Mute  
Mute  
Compressor  
Compressor  
EQ  
EQ  
Master  
Faders  
A & B  
Digital-to-  
Analog  
Converter  
A & B  
Outputs  
Lo-Shelf  
EQ  
Hi-Shelf  
EQ  
Bus B  
Inputs  
Bus A  
Record  
Outputs  
DX8 Signal-Flow Diagram  
Output  
Meters  
DX8 – 6  
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3. INSTALLATION  
APPLICATION DIAGRAMS  
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DX8 – 7  
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–
DX8 – 8  
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Drum Mics  
Vocals  
Laptop with  
DX8-PC Application  
Vocals  
Vocals  
Wireless Microphone  
Receiver for  
Lead Vocalist  
Digital Multitrack Recorder  
Optional Live Recording  
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
SERIAL NUMBER  
MANUFACTURING DATE  
DX8 DIGITAL MIXER  
DIRECT OUTPUTS  
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
THE FOLLOWING ARE TRADEMARKS OR REGISTERED  
TRADEMARKS OF MACKIE DESIGNS INC "MACKIE",  
"MACKIE INDUSTRIAL", AND THE "RUNNING MAN" FIGURE  
12  
G
INPUTS  
1
+5V  
+
G
–
CONCEIVED, DESIGNED, AND MANUFACTURED  
USA  
0
60  
0
60  
0
60  
0
60  
0
60  
0
60  
0
60  
0
60  
BY MACKIE DESIGNS INC WOODINVILLE  
•
WA  
•
-20 +20  
-20 +20  
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
MADE IN USA  
•
FABRIQUE AU USA  
•
COPYRIGHT ©1999  
30dB +30dB  
TRIM  
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30dB +30dB  
TRIM  
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TRIM  
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TRIM  
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TRIM  
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TRIM  
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TRIM  
BUS A  
TRIM  
BUS B  
11  
OUTPUTS  
LOGIC I/O  
1
MIC  
MIC  
MIC  
MIC  
MIC  
MIC  
MIC  
MIC  
REMOTE BUS  
OUTPUTS  
COMM PORT  
MIC  
POWER  
INPUT  
22-28V DC,  
3A MAX  
–
+
G
–
LINE  
+
G
PHANTOM POWER  
48V DC  
–
–
A
B
A
B
–
ON  
100 –240V , 50/60Hz, 1A MAX  
+
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
LISTED COMMERCIAL  
AUDIO EQUIPMENT  
9Z39  
RECORD  
LINE  
LINE  
LINE  
LINE  
LINE  
LINE  
LINE  
LINE  
LINE  
LINE  
R
Secondary  
Lecturn  
Fellowship  
Hall  
Remote Controls  
Remote Controls  
Choir  
–10  
–10  
–
–
–
8
6
3
–
–
–
8
6
3
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0
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25  
30  
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10  
15  
20  
25  
30  
40  
CD Player  
Pulpit  
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
SERIAL NUMBER  
MANUFACTURING DATE  
DX8 DIGITAL MIXER  
DIRECT OUTPUTS  
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
THE FOLLOWING ARE TRADEMARKS OR REGISTERED  
TRADEMARKS OF MACKIE DESIGNS INC "MACKIE",  
12  
INPUTS  
1
+5V  
+
G
–
"MACKIE INDUSTRIAL", AND THE "RUNNING MAN" FIGURE  
CONCEIVED, DESIGNED, AND MANUFACTURED  
0
60  
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60  
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BY MACKIE DESIGNS INC WOODINVILLE  
•
WA  
•
USA  
-20 +20  
-20 +20  
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MADE IN USA FABRIQUE AU USA  
•
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COPYRIGHT ©1999  
30dB +30dB  
TRIM  
1
30dB +30dB  
TRIM  
2
30dB +30dB  
TRIM  
3
30dB +30dB  
TRIM  
4
30dB +30dB  
TRIM  
5
30dB +30dB  
TRIM  
6
30dB +30dB  
TRIM  
7
30dB +30dB  
TRIM  
8
TRIM  
BUS A  
TRIM  
BUS B  
G
11  
OUTPUTS  
LOGIC I/O  
1
MIC  
MIC  
MIC  
MIC  
MIC  
MIC  
MIC  
MIC  
REMOTE BUS  
COMM PORT  
MIC  
POWER  
INPUT  
22-28V DC,  
3A MAX  
–
+
G
–
LINE  
+
G
OUTPUTS  
PHANTOM POWER  
48V DC  
A
B
A
B
–
ON  
100 –240V , 50/60Hz, 1A MAX  
+
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
LISTED COMMERCIAL  
AUDIO EQUIPMENT  
9Z39  
RECORD  
LINE  
LINE  
LINE  
LINE  
LINE  
LINE  
LINE  
LINE  
LINE  
LINE  
R
Primary  
Stereo Power Amplifiers  
in Mono Mode  
Cassette Deck  
Left  
Right  
Sanctuary  
Left  
Fellowship Hall  
Right  
C: Two DX8s in Church Application  
DX8 – 9  
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DX8 – 10  
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Application Diagrams  
A: Typical Stereo Application  
This diagram depicts a simple setup, using the  
DX8 in a stereo application. A microphone is  
connected to the MIC input on channel 1 for paging  
A cassette deck is connected to the RECORD  
output jacks for recording the service.  
The A OUTPUT is connected to a stereo power  
amplifier configured for mono operation that drives  
purposes, and several program sources are connected a pair of loudspeakers that cover the sanctuary.  
to the LINE inputs on channels 3 through 8.  
The B OUTPUT is connected to an additional  
power amplifier configured for mono operation  
that provides power for a pair of speakers in the  
Fellowship Hall.  
The secondary DX8 is used to connect the  
microphones and instruments for the band. The  
B: Typical Two-Zone Application  
This configuration demonstrates how the DX8  
might be used in a restaurant/bar application. A  
paging mic is connected to the MIC input on  
channel 1. Notice the priority enable switch near the  
paging mic, which causes the other inputs to either  
turn off or reduce their volume levels, depending on  
how the Force-On/Off function is set up in the  
Audio Input window.  
A
and B OUTPUTS are connected to the BUS A and  
B
LINE inputs on the primary DX8, where the signal is  
mixed with the program sources connected to the  
primary DX8.  
A digital multitrack recorder is connected to the  
DIRECT OUTPUTS on the secondary DX8 for  
tracking the vocals and instruments for later  
mixdown to 2-track.  
Zone A uses a 70V distribution system for broad  
coverage using multiple speakers throughout the  
restaurant area.  
A laptop is connected to the front panel COMM  
PORT on the secondary DX8, using a standard 9-pin  
RS-232 computer cable. This gives the band remote  
control over the entire mix of the instruments and  
vocals connected to the secondary DX8.  
Zone B uses a stereo power amplifier configured  
for mono operation to power two or four speakers  
in the bar area. Each zone has a pair of remote  
controls, allowing access to predefined functions  
such as level control and program source selection  
in each zone.  
D: Board Room Application With Two-Zones  
In this configuration, eight microphones are  
connected to a DX8. The podium mic is connected  
to channel 1, and has a priority enable switch near it  
connected to a logic input for the moderator to use  
to mute or duck the other microphones, if required.  
Two zones are covered using 70V distribution.  
Zone B can be partitioned off, and has a second  
DX8 for selecting either the board room source  
(connected to BUS B LINE input), or the  
A 24V DC power supply is connected to the  
POWER INPUT connector on the DX8, for backup  
operation in case of an AC power failure.  
C: Two DX8s In Church Application  
This illustrates using two DX8s to meet the many  
requirements in this church application. The primary  
DX8 is used to connect the various microphones  
located at the pulpit, lecturn, and choir loft. Two  
additional microphones from the Fellowship Hall are  
connected to MIC inputs 5 and 6. A CD player is  
connected to LINE inputs 7 and 8 for playback of  
prerecorded music for soloists when required.  
A pair of remote controls is located at the pulpit,  
primarily for selecting presets for various events  
such as Sunday morning service, Monday evening  
Bible study, and Saturday afternoon weddings.  
Another pair of remotes is located in the Fellowship  
Hall to control the level for the microphones (assigned  
to a Fader B Control Group) in the Fellowship Hall,  
and to choose whether the Sanctuary mics are  
heard in the Fellowship Hall and whether the  
Fellowship Hall mics are heard in the Sanctuary.  
microphones in Zone B (for a separate meeting  
going on simultaneously).  
Each zone has a pair of remote controls for  
configuring the system as needed.  
DX8 – 11  
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Connections  
Connecting Balanced Sources  
Use high-quality three-conductor cable for  
balanced connections, such as Star Quad by  
Belden, Canare, Mogami, etc. The better the shield,  
the better the audio signal is protected from  
induced EMI and RFI.  
Note: With screw-down connectors, it's best to  
use stranded wire that is not tinned. Solder can  
"flow" under the pressure of the screw-down  
terminal and cause the connection to become  
loose.  
Connecting Unbalanced Sources  
It may be necessary to connect a 2-conductor  
unbalanced input to a balanced input on the DX8.  
To connect an unbalanced line-level signal:  
Follow the instructions for connecting a balanced  
line-level signal above, but wire the connector as  
follows:  
Pin 1 = Ground (Shield)  
Pin 2 = Hot (+)  
Pin 3 = Ground  
To connect a balanced mic or line-level signal:  
Strip the wire back about 1/4" inch, insert the  
wire as far as it will go into the appropriate hole in  
the supplied Phoenix-type connector, and tighten  
down the screw with a small slot-head screwdriver.  
It is recommended that you use 20 or 22 gauge  
wire with the Phoenix-type connectors. The  
connectors are wired as follows:  
1
2
3
Gnd  
+
Pin 1 = Ground (Shield)  
Pin 2 = Hot (+)  
Unbalanced Connection  
Pin 3 = Cold (–)  
Connecting the DIRECT OUTPUTS  
This is a 15-pin D-Sub connector. The signals on  
the DIRECT OUTPUT are unbalanced. Use shielded,  
twisted pairs for the DIRECT OUTPUT cable to ensure  
the best rejection of external noise (EMI and RFI).  
The DIRECT OUTPUT connector is wired as follows:  
1
2
3
DIRECT OUTPUTS  
Gnd  
+
–
8
15  
INPUT 1 HOT (+)  
SIGNAL RETURN  
INPUT 2 HOT (+)  
SIGNAL RETURN  
INPUT 3 HOT (+)  
SIGNAL RETURN  
Balanced Connection (Line Input Shown)  
INPUT 4 HOT (+)  
SIGNAL RETURN  
INPUT 5 HOT (+)  
SIGNAL RETURN  
INPUT 6 HOT (+)  
SIGNAL RETURN  
INPUT 7 HOT (+)  
SIGNAL RETURN  
INPUT 8 HOT (+)  
Note: To connect to the MIC inputs, turn the  
connector upside-down relative to the LINE input  
connector. Double check the wiring with the wiring  
graphics indicated on the rear panel.  
9
1
DIRECT OUTPUTS Pinout Connection  
Connecting the RECORD Outputs  
These are RCA-type unbalanced connectors. Use  
high-quality shielded cable with RCA-type plugs for  
these connections.  
Connecting the Bus A and B OUTPUTS  
These are 3-pin Phoenix-type connectors that  
provide a balanced line-level output signal from Bus  
A and Bus B. Use high-quality, three-conductor  
shielded cable for these connections.  
DX8 – 12  
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Strip the wire back about 1/4" inch, insert the  
wire as far as it will go into the appropriate hole in  
the supplied Phoenix-type connector, and tighten  
down the screw with a small slot-head screwdriver.  
It is recommended that you use 20 or 22 gauge  
wire with the Phoenix-type connectors. The  
OUTPUT connectors are wired as follows:  
Pin 1 = Ground (Shield)  
active, the output is 0 VDC. The logic outputs can  
supply up to 10 mA of current each.  
LOGIC OUT  
13  
25  
GROUND  
N/C  
LOGIC OUT 10  
LOGIC OUT 9  
LOGIC OUT 8  
LOGIC OUT 7  
LOGIC OUT 6  
LOGIC OUT 5  
LOGIC OUT 4  
LOGIC OUT 3  
Pin 2 = Hot (+)  
Pin 3 = Cold (–)  
LOGIC OUT 2  
10mA Maximum  
+5VDC  
14  
LOGIC OUT 1  
Connecting the LOGIC I/O  
1
This is a 25-pin D-Sub connector. There are 10 logic  
inputs and 10 logic outputs. They are all active-low  
circuits. Use 22 gauge wire for these connections.  
LOGIC OUTPUT Connection  
LOGIC I/O  
Note: Pins 12, 13, and 24 are not used at this  
time. They are reserved for future updates. Do not  
connect anything to these pins.  
13  
25  
N/C  
N/C  
LOGIC IN 10  
LOGIC IN 9  
GROUND  
N/C  
LOGIC OUT 10  
LOGIC OUT 9  
LOGIC OUT 8  
LOGIC OUT 7  
LOGIC OUT 6  
LOGIC OUT 5  
LOGIC OUT 4  
LOGIC OUT 3  
LOGIC OUT 2  
LOGIC IN 8  
LOGIC IN 7  
LOGIC IN 6  
LOGIC IN 5  
LOGIC IN 4  
LOGIC IN 3  
LOGIC IN 2  
LOGIC IN 1  
Connecting the REMOTE BUS  
This is a 3-pin Phoenix-type connector  
specifically for connecting the optional remote  
control peripherals. Use a high-quality three-  
conductor shielded cable to make this connection,  
such as Belden 8451, 9451, or equivalent. The  
lower the nominal capacitance of the wire, the more  
distance you can have between the remote control  
and the DX8 before suffering transmission losses.  
Strip the wire back about 1/4" inch, insert the  
wire as far as it will go into the appropriate hole in  
the supplied Phoenix-type connector, and tighten  
down the screw with a small slot-head screwdriver.  
It is recommended that you use 18, 20, 22, or 24 gauge  
wire for the remote control connections, depending  
on the distance between the DX8 and the remotes.  
The REMOTE BUS connector is wired as follows:  
Pin 1 = Ground (Shield)  
LOGIC OUT 1  
+5VDC  
14  
1
LOGIC I/O Pinout Connection  
The logic inputs are active-low with internal pull-  
up resistors connected to +5 VDC. Use a normally  
open switch connected between the logic input and  
ground (pin 25). When the switch is closed, the  
logic input is active. Depending on the function  
assigned to the logic input, a toggle switch or a  
momentary switch may be used.  
LOGIC INPUT  
Pin 2 = Data + (with +24 VDC power)  
Pin 3 = Data – (with +24 VDC power)  
13  
25  
GROUND  
N/C  
N/C  
LOGIC IN 10  
LOGIC IN 9  
LOGIC IN 8  
LOGIC IN 7  
LOGIC IN 6  
LOGIC IN 5  
LOGIC IN 4  
LOGIC IN 3  
LOGIC IN 2  
Note: See the instructions with the remote  
control for more information.  
AC Power Considerations  
LOGIC IN 1  
14  
1
The DX8 can accept an AC voltage ranging from  
90 V to 240 V without having to reconfigure the  
primary wiring, due to the sophisticated design of  
the switching power supply. Each DX8 draws an  
average of 1 amp of AC line current at 120 VAC.  
Warning: Always use a 3-conductor AC power  
cord with a safety ground connection. Never  
remove the ground pin or attempt to bypass it. This  
is very dangerous.  
LOGIC INPUT Connection  
The logic outputs are active-low, open-collector  
outputs with internal pull-up resistors. Connect the  
indicator or activation circuit between the logic  
output and +5 VDC (pin 1). When the output is  
DX8 – 13  
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4. OPERATION  
Set the Levels  
MIC and LINE Input Trim  
Quick Start  
The analog trim controls on the rear panel are  
not adjustable via the control software since these  
are in the analog domain, prior to the A/D converters.  
To adjust the MIC and LINE TRIM controls:  
1. Start the program source playback for Input 1 or, if  
a microphone is connected, have someone speak  
into the microphone at a normal volume.  
Reading the instruction manual is the only way  
to fully understand the features and functions of the  
DX8. However, the Quick Start provides a quick  
overview to get the DX8 set up and working fast.  
Make sure the power switch is off while setting  
up and making connections to the DX8.  
2. Adjust the Input 1 TRIM control so the meter  
indication is at or around –10 dB. The peaks should  
regularly hit, and occasionally exceed the –10 dB level.  
This provides plenty of headroom for transient peaks.  
Make the Connections  
Determine which inputs to use for  
MIC  
program sources and which to use for  
+
G
–
microphones. Follow the wiring  
diagram on the rear panel to make the  
connections.  
Make use of the PHANTOM POWER  
switches if any of the microphones  
require phantom power. Phantom  
Input Mix Levels  
After setting the MIC and LINE TRIM controls as  
instructed above, adjust the input mix levels to unity  
gain (Ctrl+click on the fader to set it to unity gain).  
The control is at unity gain when both the –10 and  
–7 LEDs are lit. Adjust the input faders on the eight  
input channels individually to achieve a balanced mix.  
LINE  
+
G
–
power is present when the switch is in the UP  
position.  
Make use of the supplied Phoenix connectors  
with appropriate wiring to connect to the amplifier  
inputs. Connect the power amplifier outputs to  
speakers appropriate for the amplifier’s specified  
output power.  
MASTER A and B Output Levels  
Before adjusting the MASTER A and B output  
faders, turn on the power amplifier.  
Connect a personal computer loaded with the  
DX8-PC control software to the COMM PORT on  
the DX8. The RS-232 serial port from the computer  
can be connected to either COMM PORT on the  
DX8 (front panel or rear panel).  
If the power amplifier has level controls:  
1. Turn the amplifier level controls all the way down.  
2. Adjust the output faders to unity “U” on-screen.  
Have the program sources playing. The peaks on  
the master output meter should regularly hit, and  
occasionally exceed the –10 dB level. This provides a  
nominal +4 dBu level at the OUTPUTS.  
Start Up  
Before turning on the DX8, set the TRIM controls  
all the way down.  
Turn on the DX8 power switch. Open the DX8-  
PC control software on the computer and click On  
Line. This begins the communication between the  
DX8 and the computer.  
Configure the DX8 for the current application.  
Set all the EQ controls flat. Adjust the input faders  
and the output faders all the way down.  
Note: When the UP/DOWN buttons are  
pressed, the meters indicate the gain of the channel  
relative to its maximum gain. After five seconds, the  
meters revert to normal peak program metering.  
3. Slowly increase the amplifier level controls to  
attain the volume level desired. If the volume gets  
too loud too fast, adjust the MASTER A and B  
output level controls to –15 dB or –20 dB. If the  
volume level isn’t loud enough, adjust the  
MASTER A and B output level controls to –5 or –10.  
Be careful that the peak level doesn't hit the OL  
(overload) indicator on the meter, which may run  
the risk of driving the output into clipping.  
If the power amplifier doesn’t have level  
controls:  
1. Slowly adjust the MASTER A and B output level  
controls until the –10 and –7 dB LED indicators  
light (or to unity “U” on-screen), or until the  
desired volume level is attained. If the volume  
level isn’t loud enough, adjust the MASTER A and  
B output level controls to –5 or –10. Be careful that  
the peak level doesn't hit the OL (overload)  
indicator on the meter, which may run the risk of  
driving the output into clipping.  
DX8 – 14  
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Using Inputs 1-8  
Connect the microphones or program sources to  
Inputs 1-8. Examples of program sources include a  
CD player, tape deck, tuner, satellite feed, TV audio,  
jukebox, or other audio source. Each input has a  
separate Phoenix-type connector for a mic or line-  
level input.  
Bus A and B Input Trim  
There is no metering after the BUS A and  
B
input  
TRIM controls. These controls must be adjusted by  
ear. Start the program source playback for all  
sources connected to the BUS A or BUS B input.  
Slowly increase the TRIM control to the center  
position (12 o'clock), which is unity gain. Then  
adjust the TRIM control up or down to attain a  
balance within the total mix.  
TRIM  
Use the TRIM control to adjust the gain of the input  
preamp stage according to the level of the input signal.  
Refer to the "Quick-Start" section (Set the Levels) for  
instructions on how to set the TRIM controls.  
Using the Digital Signal Processors  
The DX8 has five powerful floating-point 32-bit  
digital signal processors (DSPs) to implement the  
digital audio processing functions.  
LEVEL  
The up/down arrow buttons on each channel are  
used to adjust the mix level for each channel. Use  
these to fine tune the mix or relative loudness of  
each input signal that is connected to the DX8.  
When adjusting these buttons, the channel  
meter indicates the gain of the channel relative to  
the maximum gain of +10 dB. After 5 seconds, the  
meter reverts back to indicating the actual input  
signal level of the channel. This metering is pre-EQ  
and pre-LEVEL control.  
Channel 3-Band EQ  
Each of the inputs is equipped with a 3-band  
equalizer. Use this to adjust the overall tonal quality  
of the input signal.  
Note: The channel EQ gain and frequency are  
adjustable from the PC only.  
Unity gain is indicated when the –10 and –7 dB  
LEDs are both lit on the meter (or "U" on-screen).  
Output 2-Band Shelving EQ  
Each of the outputs is equipped with a 2-band  
shelving equalizer. Use this to make broad  
equalization adjustments to the output signals of  
the DX8. The output EQ gain can be adjusted from  
the front panel, and the EQ gain and corner  
frequency can be adjusted from the PC.  
The center gain position (0 dB) is indicated when  
both "0" LEDs are lit on the meter.  
EQ  
Each Input 1-8 has a 3-band EQ. This is  
adjustable from the PC only. It provides 15 dB of  
boost or cut with user selectable corner and center  
frequencies (LO: 20Hz-500Hz; MID: 20Hz-20kHz; HI  
500Hz-20kHz).  
:
Using the BUS A and B Inputs  
Output 31-Band 1/3 Octave Graphic EQ/  
5-Band Parametric EQ/Compressor  
Each of the outputs is also equipped with a 31-  
band 1/3 octave graphic EQ. In addition, a 5-band  
true parametric EQ and a compressor are available  
on each output.  
These inputs provide a direct analog connection  
to the BUS A and  
B
buses. These input points are  
post-DSP and post-D/A converter, and accept a  
balanced analog line-level signal. Use these to connect  
an additional program source to a zone, or to connect  
the Zone A and B outputs from another DX8.  
Note: These functions are adjustable from the  
PC only.  
TRIM  
Software Updates  
Use the TRIM control to adjust the signal level  
Check the Mackie website at www.mackie.com  
for new information and updates to the DX8  
software and firmware.  
at the BUS A and  
B
inputs. Typically, this control  
would be set to the center detent position (unity  
gain). However, it can be adjusted up or down by  
20 dB to achieve a balance between the signal at  
the BUS A and  
internal and  
B
inputs, and the signal on the  
A
B
buses.  
DX8 – 15  
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on/off. Each of the four buttons controls a single  
function and its associated LED displays the current  
state of the function.  
Refer to Appendix C for a list of the predefined  
functions available for the Selection Remote Control.  
DIRECT OUTPUTS  
The DIRECT OUTPUTS provide an unbalanced  
line-level signal from each of the 8 Input channels.  
This signal comes from the output of the preamplifier  
stage on each input channel, prior to the A/D  
converter and subsequent digital signal processing.  
Use the DIRECT OUTPUTS to connect a continuous  
music source (e.g., satellite feed, prerecorded back-  
ground music, multi-disc CD player). This may connect  
to a telephone system music-on-hold input, or to  
provide a feed to a multi-track recorder (for recording) or  
a mixing console (for additional zone coverage).  
DX-RVC Level Remote (2-Button/12-LED)  
OUTPUTS A and B  
These outputs provide a balanced line-level signal.  
Connect these outputs to the inputs of a power amplifier.  
This remote device can control a level,  
preselected via the 8-position DIP switch, and  
display the selected level on the LED meter. The  
predefined functions include Input 1-8 level,  
Using the RECORD Output  
The  
A
and  
B
output signals are provided at the  
OUTPUT A or B MASTER level, OUTPUT A and  
Group level, and Group 1-8 level. Note that the  
remote control indicates the gain setting of the  
channel, and not the signal level in real time.  
B
RECORD output jacks, which are industry standard  
unbalanced RCA connectors. Connect these to the  
Tape Input jacks on a tape deck or other recording  
device to record the mix at the BUS A and  
B
outputs.  
Refer to Appendix D for a list of the predefined  
functions available for the Level Remote Control.  
Using the REMOTE BUS Connection  
Connecting One or More Remote Controls  
The remote control devices are connected to  
the DX8 using a 3-wire half-duplex interface with  
+24 VDC phantom power. The REMOTE BUS  
connection can provide power for up to nine  
remotes. Provision is made to connect local power to  
the remote controls if required in certain applications.  
The maximum distance between the DX8 and  
Connect one or up to nine remote controls to the  
REMOTE BUS connection. Each remote control has  
an 8-position DIP switch that must be set to a  
unique ID. When the DX8 is first turned on, it polls  
the REMOTE BUS and identifies the remote  
controls connected to it by each unique ID.  
Many of the predefined functions have two ID  
addresses assigned to it to accommodate situations the remotes varies, depending on the type of cable  
where two remote controls are required to control  
the same function on a single DX8.  
selected and the type of remote controls used. As a  
general rule, using 22 gauge wire (at 0.014 Ω/ft. and  
34 pF/ft), one remote can be up to 3000 feet away,  
five remotes can be up to 2500 feet away, and eight  
remotes can be up to 500 feet away before trans-  
mission losses become a factor (see the instructions  
with the remote control for more information).  
There are two remote control versions available:  
DX-SW4 Selection Remote (4-Button/4-LED)  
Using the LOGIC I/O  
The DX8 has 10 programmable general-purpose  
logic inputs and 10 programmable general-purpose  
logic outputs. The inputs are active low with internal  
pull-up resistors. The outputs are active low open-  
collectors with internal pull-up resistors. With the  
inputs or outputs unconnected or inactive, the logic  
voltage level is high (+5 V). The active state is  
defined as voltage low (0 V or ground).  
This remote device is designed to select  
functions such as preset selection, mute, and force-  
DX8 – 16  
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The logic functions assigned to each individual  
logic input and output are configured using the DX8-  
PC application. In addition, each logic input and  
output can be assigned a descriptive name (up to  
32 characters) for easier identification within the  
PC application.  
When activated as a latching function, the  
preset state is recalled when the logic input goes  
from inactive to active. See “Presets” on pages  
22 and 29 for more information about the preset  
recall function.  
Note: Logic I/O functions are set from the PC  
application only.  
Logic Outputs  
The logic outputs indicate the state of the  
following conditions, selectable in software:  
Input Signal Present  
Logic Inputs  
The following functions can be activated by the  
logic inputs:  
Force On  
Output Signal Present  
Input Channel Open  
Output Channel Open  
Preset Active  
Force Off  
Input Mute  
Output Mute  
Group Mute  
Preset Recall  
Priority Inactive  
Auto-gate Status  
Signal Present  
A logic output can indicate whether a signal  
greater than –40 dBFS is present on an input or an  
output. Select the channel from the DX8-PC  
application.  
Force-on/Force-off  
This provides a means to temporarily increase or  
decrease the gain of a channel with an external  
switch, remote control, or through the priority  
function. This is defined in the Audio Input window  
in the DX8-PC software application. These are  
momentary functions and are active only when the  
logic input pin is active (held low). It forces the input  
fader level to the Force On Level or Force Off  
Level selected for that channel.  
Channel Open  
A logic output can indicate when a channel or  
mix output gain is greater than –40 dBFS. For an  
input, this includes either the Bus A or B mix level.  
For the output, it is either the A or B mix output.  
Select the channel from the DX8-PC application.  
See “Audio In” on page 25 for more information  
about the Force-on and Force-off function.  
Preset Active  
A logic output can indicate when a particular  
preset is active. Choose the preset indicated by the  
logic output from the DX8-PC application.  
Mute  
An input, output, or group can be muted with a  
Logic Input. This function can be activated in one of  
four ways:  
Priority Inactive  
•
•
•
•
Momentary: The mute/enable function is continuously active  
while the logic input is continuously active.  
A logic output can indicate whether an Input  
Force-on Priority is active, as selected from the  
DX8-PC application.  
Latch On: The mute function is activated when the logic input  
goes from inactive to active.  
Latch Off: The mute function is deactivated when the logic input  
goes from inactive to active.  
Auto-gate Status  
A logic output can indicate when an Input Gate is  
active. Auto-gate is selected in the Automix window  
(see "Automix" on page 24 for more information  
about the Auto-gate function).  
Toggling: The mute function toggles its state when the logic  
input goes from inactive to active.  
Preset Recall  
This function can be activated as a momentary  
function or as a latching function. When activated  
as a momentary function, the preset state is  
recalled only when the logic input is active. When  
the logic input is inactive, the DX8 returns to its  
base state as long as no other momentary function  
is in force. Normally, the base state is the state the  
DX8 was in prior to activating the preset state.  
Front Panel Lock  
The MODE button on the front panel is used to  
disable the front panel controls by selecting LOCK  
The LOCK LED blinks for about five seconds before  
it engages. When the LED lights steadily, the front  
panel controls are disabled.  
.
DX8 – 17  
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The Lock Code is set using the DX8-PC  
application (see page 20, "Set Lock Code"). To  
unlock the DX8 from the front panel, press the  
bottom "Down" buttons on the front panel in the  
correct numerical sequence, according to the  
following chart:  
Upgrading the Software  
From time to time, Mackie Designs will release  
upgrades for the internal operating software in the  
DX8. This can be downloaded from our website  
(www.mackie.com) to a PC-compatible computer.  
Use the serial port on the computer to connect to  
the COMM PORT on the DX8 to transfer the data to  
the on-board flash memory with the DX8-PC software.  
Input 1 Down = 1  
Input 2 Down = 2  
Input 3 Down = 3  
Input 4 Down = 4  
Input 5 Down = 5  
Input 6 Down = 6  
Input 7 Down = 7  
Input 8 Down = 8  
Low EQ Down = 9  
Hi EQ Down = 0  
Connecting a PC  
Use a standard DB9 (male/female) computer  
cable to connect a PC to the DX8. The DX8-PC  
application uses COM 1 on the PC by default.  
Connect the COM port on the PC to a COMM  
PORT on the DX8.  
View the installed "ReadMe" file for more  
information about running the PC application and  
how to configure the DX8-PC application to use a  
different serial port on the PC.  
Note: The default Lock Code is "1234."  
5. DX8-PC SOFTWARE (v 2.0)  
Upgrading the Firmware  
Installing the Software  
Before attempting to go "Online" with the DX8,  
you must upgrade the firmware in the DX8's flash  
memory.  
A PC-based Windows-style graphical interface  
software application is provided on a CD-ROM to  
control and configure the DX8 at the point of  
installation. Check our website at  
www.mackie.com/install/dx8 for software upgrades  
as they become available.  
1. Connect the PC to the DX8 as described above.  
2. Open the DX8 v2.0 software. DO NOT click the On  
Line button yet.  
3. Click Advanced in the top menu bar and select  
Firmware Upgrade.  
To install the software on a PC:  
It is necessary to install the DX8-PC software on  
your PC.  
4. Click Select File in the Firmware Upgrade window  
and the Select OS Upgrade File dialog box opens.  
Browse to the location of the OS upgrade file (with  
.pkt extension) on your hard drive, CD, or floppy  
drive and click Open, then click Upgrade. You can  
monitor the progress in the Firmware Upgrade  
window.  
1. Make sure no other applications are running.  
2. Insert the DX8 CD-ROM into your PC's CD drive, or  
download the software from www.mackie.com/  
install/dx8.  
5. Upgrade Successful appears in the Status window  
3. The CD should begin the installation automatically.  
when it is complete.  
If not, click Start, then click Run.  
6. Close the Firmware Upgrade window and click the  
4. Type <drive>:\DX8-PC\Setup in the command line  
(where <drive> is the letter assigned to the CD  
drive, i.e., D drive, or the location on your hard  
drive where the file was downloaded).  
On Line button to connect to the DX8.  
5. Setup will install the DX8-PC application onto your  
PC. You can accept the default directory, or specify  
a different location to install the application.  
DX8 – 18  
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The graphical user interface is divided into four  
sections:  
Overview  
1. Menu Bar  
2. Indicators and Presets  
3. Buttons  
The DX8-PC software application provides real-  
time control and configuration editing for the DX8  
using a laptop or other PC-compatible computer.  
In addition to input and output level control and  
output EQ gain control, which is available on the  
front panel, the DX8-PC application provides control  
over each individual channel EQ gain and corner  
frequency, Bus A and Bus B output EQ gain and  
corner frequency, output graphic EQ gain, output  
parametric EQ gain, frequency, and bandwidth,  
output compressor controls, Automix controls,  
preset save and recall, panel lock code, logic input  
and output assignments, force-on and force-off  
levels and priority, mute group assign, and control  
group assign.  
4. Input/Output  
Caution: To adjust a fader, click on the fader knob  
to select it. Ctrl+click to set the fader to unity. If you  
click above or below the knob, it will jump to the  
point where you clicked. This is useful to move the  
fader quickly to where you want it to be. However,  
be careful not to inadvertently click above a fader  
knob. A sudden jump in volume will occur.  
Menu Bar  
The following menus are available in the Menu  
bar at the top of the screen:  
Changes made in the PC software are  
immediately executed in the DX8. Also, changes  
made by controls on or connected to the DX8 are  
immediately displayed in the PC software.  
File  
Quit (Ctrl+Q)  
Select this to close the DX8-PC application. The  
DX8 will continue to operate with the current settings.  
DX8 – 19  
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To save a configuration file:  
1. Click Select File in the Configuration File window.  
Advanced  
2. Browse to the location where you want to save the  
file in the Select Configuration File window.  
3. Enter a new name in the File Name box and click  
Open.  
←
4. Click PC  
DX8 to save all the current settings of  
the DX8 to the PC. The Status box will indicate if the  
file was successfully saved to the selected location.  
DX8 Unit Info  
This opens a dialog box that contains the following  
information about the DX8 that is currently connected:  
To open a configuration file:  
1. Click Select File in the Configuration File window.  
2. Browse to the location where the file is located in  
the Select Configuration File window.  
3. Click on the file name to select it, and then click  
Open.  
→
4. Click PC  
DX8 to upload the configuration data  
to the DX8. The Status box will indicate if the  
configuration was successfully loaded from the  
selected file.  
Set Lock Code  
Firmware Upgrade  
This option allows you to view and change the  
four-digit locking code for the DX8. The code must  
consist of four digits. Use the Panel Lock button in  
the Main Window to lock and unlock the front panel  
controls, or use the MODE button on the front panel  
to lock the controls, and the Down buttons to enter  
the four-digit code to unlock it (see "Front Panel  
Lock" on page 17). The default Lock Code is "1234."  
This allows you to select an OS Upgrade File to  
upload to the DX8 as they become available. Click  
on the Select File button in the Firmware Upgrade  
window and the Select OS Upgrade File window  
opens. Browse to the location of the OS Upgrade File  
(with a .pkt extension) on your hard drive or floppy drive  
and click Open, then click Upgrade. You can monitor  
the progress in the Firmware Upgrade window.  
Configuration File  
Select this menu to open or save a configuration  
file to your hard drive or floppy drive. A configura-  
tion file includes all presets and names, all Audio In,  
Logic In, Logic Out settings, and the Lock Code.  
DX8 – 20  
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Compressor  
Windows  
This toggles the Compressor window open and  
closed. It duplicates the function of the Compress  
button under DSP on the right side of the screen.  
Audio Input  
This toggles the Audio Input window open and  
closed. It duplicates the function of the Audio In  
button under Setups on the right side of the screen.  
Logic Input  
This toggles the Logic Input window open and  
closed. It duplicates the function of the Logic In  
button under Setups on the right side of the screen.  
Logic Output  
This toggles the Logic Output window open and  
closed. It duplicates the function of the Logic Out  
button under Setups on the right side of the screen.  
About  
This provides information about the DX8-PC  
software application, including the version and  
personnel credits.  
Indicators and Presets  
This section describes the various boxes and  
buttons that are available on-screen.  
Active Logic Inputs  
These light to indicate active logic inputs (e.g.,  
contact closure).  
Close Window (ESC)  
This closes the window that is currently selected  
(front-most) on-screen.  
Active Mute Groups  
These light to indicate when a Mute Group is  
active via either a logic input or a remote control.  
Close All (Ctrl+/)  
This closes all windows that are currently open  
on the screen, leaving just the main window open.  
Graphic EQ  
This toggles the Graphic EQ window open and  
closed. It duplicates the function of the Graphic EQ  
button under DSP on the right side of the screen.  
Parametric EQ  
This toggles the Parametric EQ window open and  
closed. It duplicates the function of the Parametric  
button under DSP on the right side of the screen.  
DX8 – 21  
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Clear Edits  
Presets  
Click this button to restore the DX8 settings to  
the currently selected preset.  
The DX8 stores up to 16 presets, which can be  
recalled via the Presets drop-down box. Select a  
preset in the drop-down box and the settings are  
instantly recalled from the DX8 memory.  
On Line  
Click this button to initiate communication with  
the DX8. This button lights to indicate when there  
is active communication between a DX8 and the  
PC. Click this button again to terminate  
communication.  
Save To Preset  
Click this button to save the current mixer  
settings on the DX8 to a preset.  
The "Save To Preset" window opens. Enter a  
name for each preset in this window, then click on  
the Save To Preset button to save it.  
Panel Lock  
Indicates front panel lock status. Click this  
button to lock and unlock front panel control.  
Note that the lock code is not required to use  
this control.  
DX8 – 22  
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Buttons  
Parametric EQ  
Click this button to open the 5-Band Parametric  
Equalizer window for the A and B outputs. Each  
band has three knobs: Gain ( 15 dB), Center  
Frequency (20Hz-20kHz), and Bandwidth (0.1 to 6  
octaves). Click and drag on the individual knobs to  
adjust each parameter. A graphical display on the  
left-hand side of the window indicates the current  
response of the EQ.  
Views  
These four buttons open the Graphic EQ,  
Parametric EQ, Output Compressor, and Automix  
views, overlaid across the input section.  
Graphic EQ  
Click this button to open the 31-Band Graphic  
Equalizer window for the A and B outputs. Click and  
drag on a slider knob to adjust the EQ. The selected  
band’s GAIN and BAND (frequency) are displayed at  
the top of the window. Click the ON button to turn  
each Graphic EQ on and off. The Graphic EQ can  
also be turned on and off with the buttons on the  
output strip. Click the RESET button to return all the  
sliders to 0 dB (center).  
The A to B button (and corresponding B to A  
button on the B side) copy the settings of the A  
Graphic EQ to the B Graphic EQ (and vice versa).  
Use the Graphic EQ to make adjustments for the  
response of the room and smooth the frequency  
response.  
If two bands are set to the same frequency, the  
gain settings are additive and the response curve  
may go off the display. The response is not limited  
to the display scale, and the 32-bit floating-point  
processors accurately calculate the combined  
response of all five bands.  
The bandwidth is calculated as the 1/2 gain  
bandwidth in octaves. For example, if the center  
frequency is 1kHz with a gain of 10 dB and 2 octave  
bandwidth, the response is down to 5 dB (1/2 gain)  
at 500Hz and 2kHz (a span of two octaves).  
Click the ON button to turn each Parametric EQ  
on and off. The Parametric EQ can also be turned  
on and off with the buttons on the output strip.  
Click the RESET button to return all the knobs to  
their default settings (flat response).  
The A to B button (and corresponding B to A  
button on the B side) copy the settings of the A  
Parametric EQ to the B Parametric EQ (and vice  
versa). Use the Parametric EQ to help eliminate  
specific troublesome peaks and dips in the room  
response.  
DX8 – 23  
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•
Ratio: This determines the change in output level as a  
function of the change in input level, once the  
threshold has been exceeded. It is calibrated in  
decibels, with a range from 1:1 (off) to 20:1. Thus, if it  
is set to 10:1, an increase in input level of 10 dB  
(assuming the input is above the threshold level),  
results in a 1 dB increase in output level.  
Compress  
As a general rule, use ratio settings from 1:1.5 to 1:5  
for compressor use. Settings from 1:10 to 1:20 are  
more useful for limiting purposes, because in that  
range the output level changes very little as the input  
increases.  
•
Output: This determines the overall gain of the  
compressor from input to output (as measured with  
the signal below the threshold level). You can use this  
control to compensate for the loss of gain caused by  
the action of the compressor. It is calibrated in  
decibels, with a range from unity (0 dB) to +20.0 dB.  
Automix  
Click this button to open the Compressor window  
for the A and B outputs. Each compressor has five  
knobs: Attack, Release, Threshold, Ratio, and Output.  
Click and drag on the individual knobs to adjust each  
parameter. An analog-style meter indicates the  
amount of compression applied in decibels.  
Click the ON button to turn each Compressor on  
and off. The Compressor can also be turned on and  
off with the buttons on the output strip. Click the  
RESET button to return all the knobs to their default  
settings.  
The A to B button (and corresponding B to A  
button on the B side) copy the settings of the A  
Compressor to the B Compressor (and vice versa).  
About Compression:  
A compressor is used to reduce or limit transient  
peaks in a signal. As the input level to the  
compressor increases, the output level increases  
linearly until the threshold point is reached. After  
that point, the output level no longer increases  
linearly, but increases at a reduced rate that is  
determined by the ratio setting.  
One of the dangers of using a conventional  
mixer in a sound system operated by an untrained  
sound technician is the occurrence of feedback. The  
more open channels there are, the greater the  
overall system gain and the lower the potential  
acoustic gain (gain before feedback).  
A trained operator knows that when a single  
microphone is on, the gain of the single channel can  
be turned up to a point just before feedback starts  
to occur, and then backed off a little to provide a  
safety margin (feedback stability margin). But if a  
second microphone is turned on, the first  
microphone’s gain must be reduced to compensate  
for the additional gain provided by the second  
microphone. If the first microphone isn’t turned  
down, feedback could occur.  
The Automix feature automatically adjusts the  
input gains, depending on how many open channels  
there are at any given time. This number of open  
microphones (NOM) is used to calculate the gain  
adjustment (attenuation) for each channel.  
•
•
•
Threshold: This control determines the level at which  
the compressor begins to act on the incoming signal.  
It is calibrated in decibels, with a range from –60.0 dB  
to –1.0 dB.  
Attack: This determines how fast the compressor  
reacts once the threshold has been exceeded. It is  
calibrated in milliseconds, with a range from 1 ms to  
2500 ms (2.5 seconds).  
Release: This determines how fast the compressor  
turns off once the signal falls below the threshold. It is  
calibrated in milliseconds, with a range from 10 ms to  
2500 ms (2.5 seconds).  
DX8 – 24  
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MIX A and B Automixing Controls  
The Mix A and Mix B outputs also  
each have an ALC control. Click on the  
ALC button to turn it on, and adjust the  
range from 0 dB to –20 dB.  
Each of the outputs have a MAX  
NOM selection, from one to eight.  
Each individual channel is attenuated by an  
amount, in dB, equal to the difference, in dB,  
between that channel’s level and the sum of all the  
channel levels. This keeps the overall system gain  
constant, and allows the system to deliver  
maximum acoustic gain without feedback.  
There are three parts to the automixing feature  
in the DX8.  
When 8 is selected, all eight of the  
inputs are included in the automixing  
calculations when NOM and AUTO is  
enabled. If 4 is selected, only four  
inputs are included in the automixing  
calculations. The first four active  
channels are included, and the  
remaining channels are gated off until one of the  
first four active channels turns off.  
You can also choose whether to have the last  
active channel remain open (LAST), to have Input 1  
remain open (INP 1), or to have no channels remain  
open (NONE) when there is no signal appearing at  
any of the inputs. This can be set independently for  
Mix A and Mix B outputs.  
AUTO: This button turns  
Automixing on or off for an individual  
channel in the Mix A or Mix B output.  
This also enables the automatic  
gating feature. When the signal level  
drops below a threshold (determined  
by the automix algorithm), the gate  
activates (closes) and reduces the  
gain by an amount determined by  
the control just above the AUTO  
button, and ranges from 0 dB (no  
gate) to –60 dB (full gating). This  
control is sometimes called  
attenuation depth.  
The release time of the gate (how  
fast the gate closes once the signal falls below the  
threshold) can be set to 0.5 seconds or 1.5 seconds  
with the buttons just below the AUTO button. The  
attack time is preset with a very quick response so  
the instant a signal appears at the input, the channel  
opens. This prevents the first word from being  
cutoff when someone begins to speak.  
NOM: Each channel can be  
Setups  
Audio In  
Click this button to open the Audio Input  
window. Make the following settings and  
assignments in the Audio Input window:  
configured independently for each of  
the two mix outputs. The NOM  
button determines whether that  
channel is included in the automix  
calculations for the mix output. If the  
NOM button is selected on a  
channel (lit), then its gain is  
automatically and continuously  
adjusted by the automix algorithm.  
ALC: This is an Automatic Level  
Control, and works like a “smart”  
compressor. The threshold is  
automatically calculated, and the  
release time is deliberately set to be  
very long to avoid the perception of  
“pumping.” The range control,  
located just above the ALC button,  
sets the range through which the  
ALC circuit works on the signal. It  
can be adjusted from 0 dB (no  
Name: Enter a name for each channel with the  
keyboard. It will accept up to 32 characters.  
Mute Groups: Assign each input to one of 8 mute  
groups. Use a Mute Group to turn off (mute) two or  
more channels at the same time. Mute Groups are  
controlled by either a Logic Input or a Selection  
Remote Control configured to operate a Mute Group.  
Assign Fader A to Control Group: Assign input  
Bus A faders to one of 8 control groups.  
action), to –20 dB (the channel’s  
output level remains constant from  
the threshold to 20 dB above the  
threshold). This provides a safety  
net in the event that a very loud signal should  
suddenly appear at the input.  
Assign Fader B to Control Group: Assign input  
Bus B faders to one of 8 control groups.  
DX8 – 25  
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Use a control group to adjust the volume of two or  
more channels at the same time. All faders that are  
assigned to a control group will have their gain  
settings modified by the amount the control group  
fader is increased or decreased. For example, a  
control group might be used to adjust the overall  
volume for all the choir mics in a church by configuring  
a Level Remote Control to adjust the volume on a  
control group to which all the choir mics are assigned.  
Note: Control Groups are controlled by Level  
Remote Control only.  
Force-on: Assign a Force-on level to each input,  
from OFF to +10 dB. The Force-on setting can be  
set to either absolute or relative. In absolute mode,  
the fader level is set to the exact setting defined by  
the Force-on function. In relative mode, the current  
fader level is modified by the amount specified by  
the Force-on function.  
Force-off: Assign a Force-off level to each input,  
from OFF to +10 dB. The Force-off setting can be  
set to either absolute or relative. In absolute mode,  
the fader level is set to the exact setting defined by  
the Force-off function. In relative mode, the current  
fader level is modified by the amount specified by  
the Force-off function.  
Force-on Priority: Assign a priority level from 1  
(highest) to 8 (lowest) for each channel’s Force-on  
function. The default setting is None. Higher priority  
Force-on commands override lower priority Force-on  
commands. For example, if Input 4 is assigned a Force-  
on priority of 4, which is activated, and Input 1 is  
assigned a Force-on priority of 1 and is activated, the  
Force-on command is removed from Input 4, and it is  
forced-off, along with all other lower-priority inputs  
(note that inputs with no priority assigned are not  
affected). If the Force-on command for Input 1 is  
removed, and the Force-on command for Input 4 is  
still present, Input 4 Force-on command is activated.  
If Input 1 and Input 4 are both assigned a priority  
of 4, neither input overrides the other and Force-on  
commands can be active concurrently.  
The following flow chart demonstrates the  
Force-on/off operation for any particular input:  
START  
Is priority  
assigned?  
Yes  
Is higher priority  
No  
Yes  
Yes  
Yes  
Force this OFF  
Force this ON  
Force this OFF  
Force-on active?  
No  
Force-on active?  
No  
Force-off active?  
No  
No Force  
END  
FORCE-ON/FORCE-OFF FLOW CHART  
Logic In  
Click this button to open the Logic Input  
window. Make the following settings and  
assignments in the Logic Input window:  
Name: Enter a name for each Logic Input, up to  
32 characters.  
This rule implies that inputs are never forced-off  
by inputs with equal or lower priorities. It also implies  
that if force-on functions are active for several inputs  
with equal priorities, and there are no higher priorities  
active, then they are all forced-on. Inputs that do  
not have an assigned priority have no effect on, and  
are not affected by, the priority rule.  
The Force-off function is not affected by priority.  
The priority rule is applied continuously to all active  
Force-on functions, i.e., at any time the active Force-  
on functions actually having an effect are those that  
are applied to inputs with the highest or no priority.  
Function: Select one of 7 different functions in  
this drop-down box, including Inactive, Force-on,  
Force-off, Mute Input, Mute Output, Mute Group,  
and Preset Recall.  
Action: Select whether the particular function  
selected is momentary, latch on, latch off, or  
toggling. The selections will vary depending on the  
function selected for the Logic Input.  
Affected I/O: Select which Input or Output is  
affected by the Logic function. The selections will  
vary depending on the function and action selected  
for the Logic Input.  
See Appendix A for a chart of the Logic Input  
functional combinations available.  
DX8 – 26  
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Action Definitions  
Applications for Logic Inputs and Outputs  
Momentary means that the logic function is  
active as long as the Logic Input is held active.  
When the Logic Input is inactive, the logic function  
is inactive.  
Logic Inputs  
Mute Groups: This function makes it easy to  
"turn off" some or all inputs instantly with a single  
command (either with a Logic Input command or a  
remote control) without affecting preset levels. For  
example, instead of using the priority function on a  
paging microphone, a Selection Remote Control  
can be configured to mute all program sources  
momentarily while a button is pressed to make an  
announcement. Or all the choir mics in a church  
application could be muted when the choir is not  
singing (or, in some applications, when the choir is  
singing).  
Force-on: Use this function as a priority overide  
for a microphone and to force-off lower priority  
microphones. This might be useful in a board-room  
application for a moderator or speaker to use, or in  
a restaurant application for a paging microphone.  
Force-off: Use this to "duck" an input signal  
rather than completely mute it, as with the mute  
input function. For example, when the telephone  
rings in a bar, the bartender can momentarily lower  
the volume of the jukebox with the press of a  
button while he talks on the phone.  
Latch On means that the logic function is active  
and stays active once the Logic Input changes from  
inactive to active (logic high to logic low). Changing  
the Logic Input from active to inactive does not  
affect the logic function—it stays latched on.  
Latch Off means that the logic function turns off  
(inactive) and stays off when the Logic Input  
changes from a logic high to a logic low. Changing  
the Logic Input from active to inactive does not  
affect the logic function—it stays latched off.  
Toggling means that the logic function toggles  
between the inactive and active states when the  
Logic Input changes from inactive to active.  
Logic Out  
Click this button to open the Logic Output  
window. Make the following settings and  
assignments in the Logic Output window:  
Mute Input: Useful where it is necessary to  
temporarily mute an input signal from a remote  
location. For example, in a board room a mute  
button could be provided for each microphone.  
Mute Output: This function could be used to  
mute a particular zone in a restaurant or office  
building.  
Preset Recall: In applications where the  
configuration of the system must change at various  
times throughout the day or week, this function  
provides an easy way to quickly change the system  
configuration. For example, in a church application  
there might be a preset for Sunday morning  
worship service, and a different preset for Monday  
evening Bible study.  
Name: Enter a name for each Logic Output, up  
to 32 characters.  
Function: Select one of 7 different functions in  
this drop-down box, including Inactive, Input Signal  
Present, Output Signal Present, Input Channel  
Open, Output Channel Open, Preset Active, and  
Priority Inactive.  
Parameter: Select the input, output, or other  
parameter that is being monitored by the Logic  
Output. The selections will vary depending on the  
function selected for the Logic Output.  
Condition: Displays the particular condition that  
must be satisfied for the Logic Output to become  
active. The condition will vary depending on the  
function and parameter selected for the Logic Output.  
See Appendix B for a chart of the Logic Output  
functional combinations available.  
Logic Outputs  
Input Signal Present: Use this logic signal to light  
an LED to indicate the presence of a signal on a  
microphone or line input. This could be particularly  
useful when routing an input signal through  
multiple DX8s, to verify the signal is present at all  
intended locations.  
Another example might be in a church  
application where the pastor has a lavalier mic. As  
he approaches the pulpit, the pulpit mic begins to  
pick up his voice, triggering the Input Signal Present  
to go active. This is connected to a Logic Input pin,  
which forces off the lavalier mic.  
Output Signal Present: Use this logic signal to  
light an LED to indicate the presence of a signal at  
one of the outputs.  
DX8 – 27  
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Another application might be to turn on an  
amplifier when an output signal is present. Connect  
the Output Signal Present logic output to a power  
controller or power-up sequencer that switches AC  
power to the amplifier's AC line cord.  
Input Channel Open: This can be used to provide  
a visual indication (via an LED) that a microphone's  
gain is turned up and ready to use. Note that if a  
channel is muted, the Input Channel Open logic pin  
will become inactive (logic high).  
Output Channel Open: This can be used to  
provide a visual indication (via an LED) that an  
output's gain is turned up. Note that if an output is  
muted, the Output Channel Open logic pin will  
become inactive.  
Mid Peaking EQ  
These two knobs control the gain ( 15 dB) and  
the center frequency (20Hz-20kHz) of the channel  
mid-frequency peaking EQ. Click and drag up or  
down to increase or decrease the settings of these  
controls. The actual settings are displayed in the  
two boxes above the knobs.  
Low Shelf EQ  
These two knobs control the gain ( 15 dB) and  
the corner frequency (20Hz-500Hz) of the channel  
low-frequency shelving EQ. Click and drag up or  
down to increase or decrease the settings of these  
controls. The actual settings are displayed in the  
two boxes above the knobs.  
Preset Active: This can be used to remotely  
indicate when a specific preset is active. For  
example, in a restaurant/bar, one preset may be  
used during the dinner hours and another preset for  
later in the evening. Use the Preset Active logic on  
two output pins to indicate which preset is selected.  
Priority Inactive: This is active when there is no  
priority asserted by forced-on inputs. This can be  
used in a location where an input might be forced-  
off by a priority function, to indicate when a priority  
is activated and the input is being forced off.  
Mute Button  
Click this button to mute the  
channel's signal. Channel muting  
occurs after the input meter, so  
if signal is present at the input,  
the meter continues to indicate  
the signal level even though it is  
not getting through to the  
outputs.  
The output mute buttons  
mute the signal just before the  
output faders and meters.  
Channel and output muting can  
also be accomplished by a logic  
input or a Selection Remote  
Control.  
Channel Strip  
Meter  
The input channel meter indicates the input  
signal level just after the mic preamp and A/D  
converter stages. These meters indicate the signal  
level in real time relative to maximum level (+18  
dBu with TRIM at unity) and follow the meters on  
the front panel, with the exception that they don't  
indicate gain when the Up/Down buttons are  
pressed, as the front panel meters do.  
Gain  
Two faders are used to  
control the levels individually to  
Bus A and B. Click on the fader  
knob and drag up or down to  
increase or decrease the channel  
gain.  
Channel Name  
This box displays the name assigned to each  
channel. These names are entered in the Audio  
Input window.  
Note: The output strip names are entered  
directly in the boxes above the High Shelf EQ. Click  
in the box and the I-beam text tool appears. Double-  
click the box to select all the text. Type in the new  
name.  
Tip: Press the Ctrl key while  
clicking on a fader or knob to  
reset the control to unity or its  
default value.  
High Shelf EQ  
These two knobs control the gain ( 15 dB) and the  
corner frequency (500Hz-20kHz) of the channel high-  
frequency shelving EQ. Click and drag up or down to  
increase or decrease the settings of these controls.  
DX8 – 28  
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When a Mute Group is activated, all channels  
assigned to that Mute Group are muted  
simultaneously. Assign the inputs to Mute Groups  
in the Audio In window. Any input can be assigned  
to any Mute Group.  
Output Strip  
Meter  
The output meter indicates the output signal  
level just after the output gain control and just prior  
to the D/A converter stage. These meters indicate  
the signal level in real time relative to maximum  
output level (+18 dBu) and follow the meters on the  
front panel, with the exception that they don't  
indicate gain when the Up/Down buttons are  
pressed, as the front panel meters do.  
Control Groups: The Control Group function is  
used to assign two or more input level controls to  
one of eight Control Groups, which can be controlled  
with a Level Remote Control. When a Control Group  
level is modified with a Level Remote Control, the  
gain of each channel assigned to that Control Group  
is increased or decreased relative to its existing gain  
setting by the amount the Control Group level is  
increased or decreased. Assign the inputs to Control  
Groups in the Audio In window. A Control Group  
level defaults to 0 dB. An input level control can only  
be assigned to one Control Group, but the A and B  
level controls of an input can be assigned independently  
to different Control Groups. For example, the Bus A  
level control on Input 1 can be assigned to Control  
Group 8, while the Bus B level control on Input 1  
can be assigned to Control Group 5.  
Note that the actual level settings for inputs  
assigned to Control Groups do not change on the  
front panel meter or the DX8-PC application main  
window when a Control Group level is modified.  
Think of a Control Group as a virtual fader whose  
gain value is added to the real faders assigned to it.  
Presets: The Preset function is used to save all  
the mixer settings to the DX8's internal nonvolatile  
memory for later recall. There are 16 presets  
available, which are saved using the Save To Preset  
button in the DX8-PC application main window, and  
recalled with the Presets box in the main window,  
by a logic input, or with a Selection Remote Control.  
High Shelf EQ  
These two knobs control the gain ( 15 dB) and the  
corner frequency (500Hz-20kHz)  
of the channel high-frequency  
shelving EQ. Click and drag up or  
down to increase or decrease the  
settings of these controls.  
Low Shelf EQ  
These two knobs control the  
gain ( 15 dB) and the corner  
frequency (20Hz-500Hz) of the  
channel low-frequency shelving  
EQ. Click and drag up or down to  
increase or decrease the  
settings of these controls. The  
actual settings are displayed in  
the two boxes above the knobs.  
Output DSP On/Off  
Buttons  
These buttons duplicate the  
function of the On buttons in  
each of the three output DSP  
windows, Graphic EQ,  
Parametric EQ, and Compressor.  
Click each button to toggle the  
DSP function on and off. When  
the button is lit, the function is on.  
Settings saved to a preset:  
Input and Output Levels  
Input Shelving EQ Gain and Frequency  
Output Shelving EQ Gain and Frequency  
Output Graphic EQ Gain (including On/Off)  
Parametric EQ Gain, Frequency, and Bandwidth  
(including On/Off)  
Compressor Threshold, Attack, Release, Ratio, and  
Output (including On/Off)  
Automix NOM, ALC Range, Auto Gate Range, Last  
Mic On, Max NOM  
Noteworthy Details  
Here are a few notable details  
of some of the functions  
available with the DX8-PC  
application:  
Mute Groups: The Mute  
Group function is used to assign  
two or more inputs to one of  
eight Mute Groups, which can  
be activated with a Logic Input  
or a Selection Remote Control.  
Settings not saved to presets:  
Settings in the Audio In, Logic In, and Logic Out  
windows  
Mutes  
Lock Code  
Control Group levels are not saved to presets.  
Recalling a preset resets the Control Group levels to  
unity gain (default), and unmutes all mutes and  
Mute Groups.  
DX8 – 29  
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6. SPECIFICATIONS  
DX8 Block Diagram  
DX8 – 30  
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DX8 Specifications  
SIGNAL PROCESSING  
INPUTS / OUTPUTS  
General:  
Five 32-bit floating-point DSPs  
24-bit A/D and D/A converters  
512Kx16 Flash ROM  
Inputs 1-8:  
Balanced, Phoenix-type terminals  
Bus A and B:  
Balanced, Phoenix-type terminals, Direct to  
Mix Buses  
128Kx32 SRAM (with battery backup)  
Inputs:  
3-band shelving/peaking EQ  
Gain: 15 dB  
Master Outputs:  
Balanced, Phoenix-type terminals  
Unbalanced, RCA  
Frequency:  
Record Outputs A/B:  
Direct Outputs 1-8:  
LO Shelving: 20Hz-500Hz variable  
MID Peaking: 20Hz-20kHz variable  
HI Shelving: 500Hz-20kHz variable  
Unbalanced on DB15  
(bottom row is signal return)  
Automatic Level Control (ALC)  
Logic Inputs:  
Logic Outputs:  
Serial Ports:  
10 Inputs on DB25  
Series resistance: 570Ω  
Internal pull-up: 47kΩ to +5V DC  
Range: 0 dB to –20 dB  
Automix  
Input voltage:  
+5.5V DC maximum  
NOM On/Off  
Gate Attenuation Depth: 0 dB to –60 dB  
Gate Release Time: 0.5 s or 1.5 s  
Active voltage: +1.0V DC maximum  
10 open-collector Outputs on DB25  
Series resistance: 550Ω  
Internal pull-up: 10kΩ to +5V DC  
Outputs:  
Automatic Level Control (ALC) on each Output  
Range: 0 dB to –20 dB  
Active current:  
10mA maximum  
Active voltage: +0.8V DC max @ 1mA  
Automix MAX NOM: 1-8  
2 RS-232C on DB9 (COMM PORTS)  
Automix Last Mic On: None, Last, Input 1  
2-band shelving EQ on each Output  
Gain: 15 dB  
CONTROLS  
Corner Frequency:  
Input Trim:  
8 Rotary Potentiometers  
2 Pushbuttons per Input  
2 Pushbuttons for Low, 2 for High  
2 Pushbuttons per Output  
1 Pushbutton  
LO: 20Hz-500Hz variable  
HI: 500Hz-20kHz variable  
Input Gain:  
EQ:  
1/3-Octave Graphic EQ on each Output  
Gain: 15 dB  
Master Output Gain:  
Mode Select:  
Power:  
ISO-Centered Frequencies: 20, 25,  
31.5, 40, 50, 63, 80, 100, 125, 160,  
200, 250, 315, 400, 500, 630, 800, 1k,  
1.25k, 1.6k, 2k, 2.5k, 3.15k, 4k, 5k,  
6.3k, 8k, 10k, 12.5k, 16k, 20k  
Rocker Switch  
Phantom Power Select: 8 DIP Switches  
5-Band Parametric EQ on each Output  
Gain: 15 dB  
INDICATORS  
Center Frequency:  
20Hz-20kHz variable  
Input Levels:  
12-segment LEDs per ch.  
Bandwidth: 0.1 octave to 6 octaves  
Output EQ Levels:  
Mode Status:  
12-segment LEDs per ch.  
3 LEDs; A/B/LOCK  
Compressor/Limiter on each Output  
Threshold: –60.0 dB to –1.0 dB  
Attack: 1 ms to 2500 ms  
Output Levels:  
Volume Setting:  
12-segment LEDs per ch.  
12-segment LED Bar Graph  
Release: 10 ms to 2500 ms  
Ratio: 1:1 to 20:1  
Output: 0 dB to +20.0 dB  
LED METER VALUES  
1. Red (scale: OL):  
2. Yellow (scale: 2):  
3. Yellow (scale: 4):  
4. Yellow (scale: 7):  
5. Green (scale: 10):  
6. Green (scale: 15):  
7. Green (scale: 20):  
8. Green (scale: 25):  
9. Green (scale: 30):  
10. Green (scale: 35):  
11. Green (scale: 40):  
12. Green (scale: 50):  
> –2 dB full-scale (> 16 dBu)  
> –4 dB full-scale (> 14 dBu)  
> –7 dB full-scale (> 11 dBu)  
> –10 dB full-scale (> 8 dBu)  
> –15 dB full-scale (> 3 dBu)  
> –20 dB full-scale (> –2 dBu)  
> –25 dB full-scale (> –7 dBu)  
> –30 dB full-scale (> –12 dBu)  
> –35 dB full-scale (> –17 dBu)  
> –40 dB full-scale (> –22 dBu)  
> –50 dB full-scale (> –32 dBu)  
> –60 dB full-scale (> –42 dBu)  
Audio  
Noise  
(20Hz-20kHz bandwidth, Master Out, channel Trims @ unity gain,  
channel EQs flat, all odd channels panned left, even channels  
panned right):  
Master level @ unity, channel levels @ unity: –82 dBu  
Single channel to Master Out:  
–100 dBu  
(referenced to 1% THD+N)  
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD+N)  
(1kHz @ +10 dBu (unity level) 20Hz-20kHz):  
Mic in to Master Out:  
< 0.005%  
DX8 – 31  
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PHYSICAL  
Crosstalk  
(1kHz relative to 0 dBu, 20Hz-20kHz bandwidth, any line input to  
adjacent Direct Out):  
Dimensions (HxWxD): 3.5"/2RU (89mm) x 19" (483mm) x  
13.25" (337mm)  
Trim to unity:  
< –90 dB  
Net Weight:  
17 lbs. (7.7 kg)  
Frequency Response  
Mic input to any output:  
20Hz–20kHz, 0.5 dB  
ELECTRICAL  
Equivalent Input Noise (EIN)  
Mic in to Direct out, max gain, 150 ohm termination:  
–129.5 dBm unweighted  
AC Power:  
90–240V AC, 50/60Hz, 1.0A  
DC Power:  
24V DC, 3A  
Common Mode Rejection (CMR)  
Phantom Power:  
+48V DC, current limited to 7mA  
per input channel  
Mic in to Direct out, max gain, 1kHz signal: better than 80 dB  
Maximum and Nominal Levels and Ranges  
Fuse Ratings:  
1.6A Slo Blo, 250V  
Mic inputs:  
+18 dBu, +4 dBu,  
0 to 60 dB gain  
Line inputs:  
Bus A/B inputs:  
All outputs:  
+18 dBu, +4 dBu,  
–30 to +30 dB gain  
PC SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS  
OS:  
Windows® 95, 98 or NT®  
+18 dBu, +4 dBu,  
–20 to +20 dB gain  
Processor:  
RAM:  
Pentium® or faster  
16MB minimum  
+18 dBu, +4 dBu  
32MB recommended  
Storage:  
Display:  
10MB free disk space  
Impedances  
800x600 pixels, 256 colors minimum  
Mic inputs:  
1.3K ohms  
Line inputs:  
All other inputs:  
All outputs:  
40K ohms  
10K ohms or greater  
120 ohms  
DX8  
DX8 – 32  
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Disclaimer  
6. Service Information  
In the event that your DX8 should require  
servicing, please follow these instructions:  
Mackie Designs continually engages in research  
related to product improvement, new materials, and  
production methods. Design refinements are  
introduced into existing products without notice as  
a routine expression of that philosophy. For this  
reason, any current Mackie product may differ in  
some respect from its published description, but  
will always equal or exceed the original design  
specifications unless otherwise stated.  
"Mackie" is a registered trademark of Mackie  
Designs Inc.  
All other brand names mentioned are trademarks  
or registered trademarks of their respective holders,  
and are hereby acknowledged.  
1. Call Mackie Tech Support at 1-888-337-7404, 8 am  
to 5 pm PST (Monday-Friday), to verify the  
problem and obtain a Return Authorization (RA)  
Number. Be sure to have the serial number of the  
unit when you call. You must have a Return  
Authorization Number in order to obtain warranty  
service at the factory or at an authorized service  
center.  
2. Pack the unit in its original packaging. This is very  
important. Mackie Industrial is not responsible for  
any damage that occurs during shipping due to  
non-conventional packaging. Original packaging  
helps to minimize the possibility of shipping  
damage.  
© 2001-2003 All Rights Reserved.  
Mackie Designs Inc.  
3. Include a legible note stating your name, return  
shipping address, (no P.O. boxes), daytime phone  
number, Return Authorization Number, and a  
detailed description of the problem, including how  
we can duplicate it.  
4. Write the Return Authorization Number in BIG  
BOLD PRINT on the top of the box.  
5. Ship the unit to us. We suggest insurance for all  
forms of cartage. Ship to this address:  
Mackie Designs  
Service Department  
16220 Wood-Red Road NE  
Woodinville, WA 98072  
DX8 – 33  
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Appendix A: Logic Input Functions  
Logic Input  
Function  
Action  
Affected I/O  
Inactive  
None  
None  
Force-On  
Momentary  
None  
Momentary  
None  
Momentary  
Latch On  
Latch Off  
Toggling  
Momentary  
Input 1 to Input 8  
Input 1 to Input 8  
Input 1 to Input 8  
Input 1 to Input 8  
Input 1 to Input 8  
Input 1 to Input 8  
Input 1 to Input 8  
Input 1 to Input 8  
Output A  
Force-Off  
Mute Input  
Mute Output  
Output B  
Output A&B  
Latch On  
Latch Off  
Toggling  
Output A  
Output B  
Output A&B  
Output A  
Output B  
Output A&B  
Output A  
Output B  
Output A&B  
Mute Group  
Preset Recall  
Momentary  
Latch On  
Latch Off  
Toggling  
Momentary  
Latch On  
Mute Group 1 to Mute Group 8  
Mute Group 1 to Mute Group 8  
Mute Group 1 to Mute Group 8  
Mute Group 1 to Mute Group 8  
Preset 1 to Preset 16  
Preset 1 to Preset 16  
Appendix B: Logic Output Functions  
Logic Output  
Function  
Inactive  
Parameter  
None  
Condition  
None  
Inp Sig Present  
Out Sig Present  
Input 1-8  
Output A  
Output B  
Input 1-8  
Input Signal > –40 dB  
Output A Signal > –40 dB  
Output B Signal > –40 dB  
Input Gain > –40 dB  
Output A Signal > –40 dB  
Output B Signal > –40 dB  
Preset Active  
No priority input forced on  
LED on if gate active  
LED on if gate active  
Input Chan Open  
Output Chan Open Output A  
Output B  
Preset Active  
Priority Inactive  
Auto-gate Status  
Preset 1-16  
None  
Input 1A-8A  
Input 1B-8B  
DX8 – 34  
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Appendix C: Selection Remote Predefined Functions  
DX-SW4 Remote Switch Control (4-button/4-LED)  
Switch Positions  
ID  
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10  
11  
12  
13  
14  
1 through 8  
00000000  
10000000  
01000000  
11000000  
00100000  
10100000  
01100000  
11100000  
00010000  
10010000  
01010000  
11010000  
00110000  
10110000  
01110000  
11110000  
00001000  
10001000  
01001000  
11001000  
Function  
Control 1  
Control 2  
Control 3  
Control 4  
Mute Input 1-4 (1)  
Mute Input 1-4 (2)  
Mute Input 5-8 (1)  
Mute Input 5-8 (2)  
Mute Group 1-4 (1)  
Mute Group 1-4 (2)  
Mute Group 5-8 (1)  
Mute Group 5-8 (2)  
Force On 1-4 (1)  
Force On 1-4 (2)  
Force On 5-8 (1)  
Force On 5-8 (2)  
Force Off 1-4 (1)  
Force Off 1-4 (2)  
Force Off 5-8 (1)  
Force Off 5-8 (2)  
Mute Input 1  
Mute Input 1  
Mute Input 5  
Mute Input 5  
Mute Group 1  
Mute Group 1  
Mute Group 5  
Mute Group 5  
Force On 1  
Force On 1  
Force On 5  
Force On 5  
Force Off 1  
Force Off 1  
Force Off 5  
Force Off 5  
Mute Input 2  
Mute Input 2  
Mute Input 6  
Mute Input 6  
Mute Group 2 Mute Group 3  
Mute Group 2 Mute Group 3  
Mute Group 6 Mute Group 7  
Mute Group 6 Mute Group 7  
Force On 2  
Force On 2  
Force On 6  
Force On 6  
Force Off 2  
Force Off 2  
Force Off 6  
Force Off 6  
Mute Input 3  
Mute Input 3  
Mute Input 7  
Mute Input 7  
Mute Input 4  
Mute Input 4  
Mute Input 8  
Mute Input 8  
Mute Group 4  
Mute Group 4  
Mute Group 8  
Mute Group 8  
Force On 4  
Force On 4  
Force On 8  
Force On 8  
Force Off 4  
Force Off 4  
Force Off 8  
Force Off 8  
Force On 3  
Force On 3  
Force On 7  
Force On 7  
Force Off 3  
Force Off 3  
Force Off 7  
Force Off 7  
15  
16  
17  
18  
19  
20-255  
Preset Recall 1-4 (1) Preset Recall 1 Preset Recall 2 Preset Recall 3 Preset Recall 4  
Preset Recall 1-4 (2) Preset Recall 1 Preset Recall 2 Preset Recall 3 Preset Recall 4  
Preset Recall 5-8 (1) Preset Recall 5 Preset Recall 6 Preset Recall 7 Preset Recall 8  
Preset Recall 5-8 (2) Preset Recall 5 Preset Recall 6 Preset Recall 7 Preset Recall 8  
For Future Updates  
Appendix D: Level Remote Predefined Functions  
DX-RVC Remote Volume Control (2-button/12-LED)  
Switch Positions  
1 through 8  
00000100  
10000100  
01000100  
11000100  
00100100  
10100100  
01100100  
11100100  
00010100  
10010100  
01010100  
11010100  
00110100  
10110100  
01110100  
11110100  
00001100  
10001100  
01001100  
11001100  
00101100  
10101100  
Switch Positions  
ID 1 through 8  
ID  
Function  
Function  
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
00000000  
10000000  
01000000  
11000000  
00100000  
10100000  
01100000  
11100000  
00010000  
10010000  
01010000  
11010000  
00110000  
10110000  
01110000  
11110000  
00001000  
10001000  
01001000  
11001000  
00101000  
10101000  
01101000  
11101000  
00011000  
10011000  
01011000  
11011000  
00111000  
10111000  
01111000  
11111000  
Input Level 1A (1)  
Input Level 1A (2)  
Input Level 1B (1)  
Input Level 1B (2)  
Input Level 2A (1)  
Input Level 2A (2)  
Input Level 2B (1)  
Input Level 2B (2)  
Input Level 3A (1)  
Input Level 3A (2)  
Input Level 3B (1)  
Input Level 3B (2)  
Input Level 4A (1)  
Input Level 4A (2)  
Input Level 4B (1)  
Input Level 4B (2)  
Input Level 5A (1)  
Input Level 5A (2)  
Input Level 5B (1)  
Input Level 5B (2)  
Input Level 6A (1)  
Input Level 6A (2)  
Input Level 6B (1)  
Input Level 6B (2)  
Input Level 7A (1)  
Input Level 7A (2)  
Input Level 7B (1)  
Input Level 7B (2)  
Input Level 8A (1)  
Input Level 8A (2)  
Input Level 8B (1)  
Input Level 8B (2)  
32  
33  
34  
35  
36  
37  
38  
39  
40  
41  
42  
43  
44  
45  
46  
47  
48  
49  
50  
51  
52  
53  
Output Level A (1)  
Output Level A (2)  
Output Level B (1)  
Output Level B (2)  
Output Level A&B (1)  
Output Level A&B (2)  
Group Level 1 (1)  
Group Level 1 (2)  
Group Level 2 (1)  
Group Level 2 (2)  
Group Level 3 (1)  
Group Level 3 (2)  
Group Level 4 (1)  
Group Level 4 (2)  
Group Level 5 (1)  
Group Level 5 (2)  
Group Level 6 (1)  
Group Level 6 (2)  
Group Level 7 (1)  
Group Level 7 (2)  
Group Level 8 (1)  
Group Level 8 (2)  
Reserved for future  
updates  
9
10  
11  
12  
13  
14  
15  
16  
17  
18  
19  
20  
21  
22  
23  
24  
25  
26  
27  
28  
29  
30  
31  
54-255  
Each of the predefined functions has two IDs (1) and (2) to allow two remote controls  
to perform the same function.  
DX8 – 35  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Mackie Designs Inc.  
16220 Wood-Red Road NE • Woodinville, WA 98071 • USA  
US and Canada: 800.898.3211  
Europe, Asia, Central and South America: 425.487.4333  
Middle East and Africa: 31.20.654.4000  
Fax: 425.487.4337 • www.mackie.com  
E-mail: [email protected]  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  

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