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
LEVEL
+17
+12
-
-
HI PASS LOW PASS
BYPASS
RANGE
0
0
1
1
-12
-
DUAL 31 BAND GRAPHIC EQUALIZER
40Hz
16kHz
CLIP
6dB 12dB
RANGE
T•231
BY
-
-
HI PASS LOW PASS
BYPASS
ON
+12
+17
0
OFF
2
2
POWER
-12
40Hz
16kHz
CLIP
6dB 12dB
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
LEVEL
SERIAL /DATE CODE
CHANNEL
OUT
IN
1
2
OUT
IN
RISK OF FIRE
REPLACE FUSE AS MARKED
WARNING
NO OUTDOOR USE
OUT
OUT
IN
BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE GROOVY FO
MANUFACTURED IN CHINA
"TAPCO" AND "MACKIE" ARE REGISTERE
LKS IN WOODINVILLE, WA, USA
• FABRIQU
D
E
AU CHINE
TRADEMARKS OF
COPYRIGHT
UNBAL
BAL/UNBAL
BAL
BAL
LOUD TECHNOLOGIES INC.
•
©2003
OUT
IN
CHANNEL
OUT
IN
WWW.TAPCOGEAR.COM
IN
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
WARNING: TO REDUCETHE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK,
DO NOT EXPOSETHIS EQUIPMENTTO RAIN OR MOISTURE. DO NOT REMOVE COVER.
NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE.REFER SERVICINGTO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL.
AC 100-120V, 60Hz
AC 200-240V, 50HZ
RATED INPUT: 12.5W
T
AVIS: RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE
—
NE PAS OUVRIR
LIFT
GND
UNBAL
BAL/UNBAL
BAL
BAL
315mA 250V
by
18. Exposure to extremely high noise levels may cause permanent
hearing loss. Individuals vary considerably in susceptibility to
noise-induced hearing loss, but nearly everyone will lose some
hearing if exposed to sufficiently intense noise for a period of
time. The U.S. Government’s Occupational Safety and Health
Administration (OSHA) has specified the permissible noise
level exposures shown in the following chart.
According to OSHA, any exposure in excess of these permissible limits
could result in some hearing loss. To ensure against potentially dangerous
exposure to high sound pressure levels, it is recommended that all persons
exposed to equipment capable of producing high sound pressure levels
use hearing protectors while the equipment is in operation. Ear plugs or
protectors in the ear canals or over the ears must be worn when operating
the equipment in order to prevent permanent hearing loss if exposure is in
excess of the limits set forth here.
Duration Per Day Sound Level dBA,
Typical
Example
In Hours
Slow Response
8
90
Packed garage concert
6
92
4
95
VW Bus Peace Train
3
97
2
100
102
105
110
115
Cranked psychedelic tunes
High speed chase on C.H.I.P.s
Loudest parts at a Heavy Metal concert
1.5
1
0.5
0.25 or less
What me, read a manual?
Before you begin, please make sure you read the Safety Instructions on page 2 and
Getting Started on page 4.
Your new TAPCO® T•231 is designed to set up quickly and operate easily. We know it’s
often seen as a sign of weakness to read a manual, along with asking for directions when
lost, but maybe you can read the rest when nobody is looking.
It is important to keep your receipt in a safe place, and not a bad idea to write your
product information here for future reference (i.e., insurance claims, tech support, return
authorization, etc.).
Product Serial #:
Purchased at:
Date of purchase:
Part No. 0009427 Rev. A 1/04
©2004 LOUD Technologies Inc. All Rights Reserved.
3
Getting Started
The following steps will help you set up your T•231, and get the
levels just right.
SETTINGS:
1. Be sure the T•231’s POWER switch is off.
SET THE CONTROLS:
1. Make sure your signal source is turned up and
delivering signal to the T•231. The signal should
pass through the T•231 unaffected because the
CHAN 1 and 2 BYPASS buttons are out and the
signal processing circuitry is bypassed.
2. Set all the sliders to their center positions and all the
switches out.
CONNECTIONS:
2. Push in the CHAN 1 and 2 BYPASS buttons to
1. Using balanced or unbalanced cables, connect
your mixer’s main outputs to the T•231’s inputs,
and the T•231’s outputs to your amplifer’s (or
powered speakers’) inputs.
enable the graphic equalizer circuits.
3. You can turn up and down each individual slider
and hear how it affects the sound.
If you are using the T•231 in a channel’s insert,
connect your mixer’s channel inserts to your
T•231’s INPUTs and OUTPUTs.
4. You can turn up and down the input LEVEL controls
to make it louder or softer. When the LEVEL control
is at the center detent, it is at unity gain (it doesn’t
boost or cut the signal).
Note: The T•231 31-Band Graphic
Equalizer is designed to be inserted
LOOK
Things To Remember:
“in-line” with the signal as a
serial device. This means that the
• When you shut down your
equipment, turn off the amplifiers
first. When powering up, turn on the
amplifiers last.
entire signal is routed through the
CLOSER
processor, in contrast to a parallel
device where the processed signal is mixed back
with the unprocessed signal, like a reverb or echo.
• Save the shipping box and
packing material! You may need it
someday.
2. Connect the cables using either XLR or 1/4”
TRS connectors (balanced), or 1/4” TS or RCA
connectors (unbalanced).
• The XLR, TRS, and RCA inputs for each channel
are wired in parallel. Use only one input per channel.
• The XLR, TRS, and RCA outputs for each channel
are wired in parallel.
• The balanced XLR connectors are wired as
follows:
Pin 1 = shield (ground)
Pin 2 = hot (+)
Pin 3 = cold (–)
• The 1/4” TRS connectors are wired as follows:
Tip = hot (+)
Ring = cold (–)
Sleeve = shield (ground)
3. Plug all the sound system components into suitable
AC outlets, properly grounded and capable of
delivering adequate current.
4. Turn all the equipment on. If you are monitoring the
signal through speakers, turn the power amplifier
on last to avoid getting any pops or thumps
through your speakers.
4
Contents
Safety Instructions................................................................2
Getting Started....................................................................4
Introduction..........................................................................6
Hookup Diagrams................................................................8
Typical Hookup: In-line with Main Outputs.....................8
Alternate Hookup: Individual Channel or Main Inserts ..8
T•231 Features ....................................................................9
FRONT PANEL FEATURES .................................................9
1. EQ Sliders ...............................................................9
2. Input LEVEL ............................................................9
3. HI-PASS ..................................................................9
4. LOW-PASS ..............................................................9
5. BYPASS....................................................................9
6. CLIP ........................................................................9
7. RANGE ...................................................................9
8. POWER ...................................................................9
REAR PANEL FEATURES..................................................10
9. Line Cord Socket and Fuse................................10
10. AC Select Switch ..............................................10
11. GND LIFT Switch ................................................10
12. OUTPUTS .............................................................10
13. INPUTS.................................................................10
GENERAL PRECAUTIONS AND CONSIDERATIONS .....11
Rack Mounting........................................................11
Thermal Considerations .........................................11
AC Power Considerations......................................11
Appendix A: Service Information ....................................12
Warranty Service..........................................................12
Troubleshooting............................................................12
Repair ............................................................................13
Appendix B: Connections ................................................14
Appendix C: Technical Info..............................................15
T•231 Specifications ....................................................15
T•231 Block Diagram ...................................................16
Frequency Chart..........................................................18
TAPCO LIMITED WARRANTY...............................................19
for more information about this and other TAPCO products.
5
Introduction
®
Thank you for choosing a TAPCO Tweeq™ 31-band graphic
®
equalizer by Mackie . The TAPCO product line hails back to the
days of TAPCO Corporation, Greg Mackie’s first company. TAPCO
revolutionized the audio industry back in 1969 with the very first 6-
channel mixer specifically designed for keyboards and rock ‘N’ roll PA.
In essence, TAPCO redefined the price performance ratio and
made high-quality professional audio mixers accessible to virtually
anyone. Today, TAPCO is reborn with the same ideals and is backed
by the world-class engineering and manufacturing horsepower of
Mackie. The TAPCO T•231 is the first graphic equalizer in the TAPCO by
Mackie® family.
TAPCO version of Greg
About Graphic Equalizers
The tone controls on your home stereo system typically have a bass and treble control,
and sometimes a midrange control, that you use to boost or cut a broad band of
frequencies. When you leave the controls in the center position, they do nothing.
A graphic equalizer works in much the same way, except that it has many more controls
that operate over much narrower frequency bands. The T•231 has 31 controls that boost or
cut different frequencies, each centered on ISO standard frequencies ranging from 20 Hz
to 20 kHz and affecting 1/3 of an octave.
Constant Q Design
The T•231 is designed with constant Q filters. The Q of a filter refers to its quality. A filter
with a low Q affects a broader band of frequencies than a filter with a high Q (Q=f /BW, for
c
you technoids!). Constant Q means that, as a slider is boosted or cut, the bandwidth of the
filter (the “skirt” of the affected frequencies) remains the same. Lower quality proportional
Q filters have a broader bandwidth as the filter is boosted or cut, which can extend out to
an octave or more.
Whazzit Used For?
There are a number of uses for graphic equalizers in a sound system. They can be used
to correct the frequency response of a loudspeaker, or to adjust for resonant peaks and
dips in a room. Sometimes they are used to simply bring out the characteristics of a voice or
instrument to improve the intelligibility and articulation of the sound.
In any case, please remember that a graphic equalizer is a tool that can be used to
improve the overall sound, but it cannot make up for frequency response deficiencies
caused by poor system design or poor acoustics. Try and get the best possible sound
from the system before attempting to use equalization by paying attention to proper gain
structure and loudspeaker placement. Often times just moving a loudspeaker to a different
position can have a dramatic effect on the overall sound in the room.
Probably the most common use of a graphic equalizer is placing it in-line between the
mixing board’s main outputs and the power amplifier inputs (see hookup diagram on page 8)
When used with a real-time analyzer and pink noise generator, it can be used to fine tune
the acoustic frequency response and get it as flat as possible in a room.
.
TAPCO van (a.k.a. micro bus)
6
However, often times a perfectly flat frequency response is not what you want in a live
sound application. For example, if the low-frequency response of the loudspeakers only
extends to 50 Hz, there is no need to amplify the frequencies in the lowest octave of the
audio frequency range, 20 Hz to 40 Hz. You can use the T•231 to roll off these frequencies,
which reduces the drain on the amplifier and provides more power to amplify the higher,
more useful frequencies.
You might want to boost the higher frequencies a bit to add brightness and sizzle to the
sound. If the sound system is for the speaking voice, boosting the mid frequencies around
2-4 kHz can improve the intelligibility of the voice. Boosting 125 Hz, 250 Hz, and 16 kHz can
improve a vocal. Try as you might to eliminate it, there may still be a residual 60-cycle hum
in the speakers. You can use the 63 Hz slider to notch down the hum (the 125 Hz slider can
help eliminate residual buzz).
A graphic equalizer can be used to reduce feedback. If you don’t have a real-time
analyzer to identify the peaks that cause the feedback, you can do a fairly good job by
ear using the following procedure.
1. Set all the sliders on the T•231 to the center position (zero).
2. Slowly turn up the master volume on the mixer until feedback just begins to occur.
You can usually hear a soft ringing sound that gradually increases in volume. BUT BE
CAREFUL! Feedback can occur quickly and become very LOUD, very fast.
3. Cut the appropriate slider, corresponding to the feedback frequency, until feedback
stops. It may take some practice to identify the frequency where the feedback is
occurring, but your accuracy will improve the more familiar you become with it.
4. Repeat until you can’t isolate a specific frequency in the feedback.
This procedure helps to minimize the resonant peaks in the room. It’s a little more difficult
to identify and adjust for dips in the room response. This is best done from experience
listening for gaps in the sound of particular instruments or voices. Once you’ve identified
them, boost the slider for that particular frequency range by 3 to 6 dB to help smooth the
frequency response.
Another application for a graphic equalizer is patching it into a channel insert to
enhance the sound or change the tonal characteristics of a vocal or instrument (see
hookup diagram). The Sound Frequency chart on page 18 is a good reference to locate
the frequency ranges of particular voices and instrument.
The Tweeq Series™ of processors are powerful and tough. They are designed to
withstand the punishing rigors of the road and continue to perform day after day, year
after year.
Here’s a quick glance at the features packed into the T•231:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
2-channel 31-band graphic equalizer with constant Q circuitry and great sound quality
Switchable 6 and 12 dB control range for wide or fine tweaking
High-pass filter @ 40 Hz to remove unwanted low frequencies
Low-pass filter @ 16 kHz to remove unwanted high frequencies
Bypass switch allows quick A/B comparisons
Independent signal clip indicators on each channel
Input gain control for EQ signal compensation
Balanced 1/4" TRS and XLR, and unbalanced RCA input and output jacks
Selectable line voltage
7
Hookup Diagrams
Typical Hookup:
In-line with Main Outputs
FROM MIXING
CONSOLE LEFT AND
RIGHT MAIN OUTPUTS
SERIAL/DATE CODE
CHANNEL 1
OUT
IN
OUT
IN
RISK OF FIRE
REPLACE FUSE AS MARKED
WARNING
NO OUTDOOR USE
OUT
OUT
IN
BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE GROOVY FOLKS IN WOODINV
ILLE, WA, USA
MANUFACTURED IN CHINA
FABRIQUE AU CHINE
"TAPCO" AND "MACKIE" ARE REGISTERED TRADEMARK
•
UNBAL
BAL/UNBAL
BAL
BAL
S
OF
LOUD TECHNOLOGIES INC.
•
COPYRIGHT ©2003
OUT
IN
CHANNEL 2
OUT
IN
WWW.TAPCOGEAR.COM
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK,
DO NOT EXPOSE THIS EQUIPMENT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE. DO NOT REMOVE COVER.
NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL.
AC 100-120V, 60Hz
AC 200-240V, 50HZ
RATED INPUT: 12.5W
T
AVIS: RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE
—
NE PAS OUVRIR
LIFT
GND
UNBAL
BAL/UNBAL
BAL
BAL
315mA 250V
TO POWER AMPLIFIER OR
POWERED SPEAKERS INPUTS
Alternate Hookup:
Individual Channel or Main Inserts
RETURN
SEND
TO CHANNEL OR MAIN INSERT
SERIAL/DATE CODE
CHANNEL 1
OUT
IN
RISK OF FIRE
WARNING
REPLACE FUSE AS MARKED
NO OUTDOOR USE
OUT
IN
O
OUT
IN
BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE GROOVY FOLKS IN WOODINV
ILLE, WA, USA
FABRIQUE AU CHINE
"TAPCO" AND "MACKIE" ARE REGISTERED TRADEMARK
MANUFACTURED IN CHINA
•
UNBAL
BAL/UNBAL
BAL
BAL
S
OF
LOUD TECHNOLOGIES INC.
•
COPYRIGHT ©2003
OUT
IN
CHANNEL 2
OUT
IN
WWW.TAPCOGEAR.COM
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK,
DO NOT EXPOSE THIS EQUIPMENT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE. DO NOT REMOVE COVER.
NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL.
AC 100-120V, 60Hz
AC 200-240V, 50HZ
RATED INPUT: 12.5W
T
AVIS: RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE
—
NE PAS OUVRIR
LIFT
GND
UNBAL
BAL/UNBAL
BAL
BAL
315mA 250V
RETURN
SEND
TO CHANNEL OR MAIN INSERT
8
T•231 Features
2
3 4
7
5
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
LEVEL
+12
+17
-
-
HI PASS LOW PASS
BYPASS
RANGE
0
1
1
-12
-
DUAL 31 BAND GRAPHIC EQUALIZER
40Hz
16kHz
CLIP
6dB 12dB
RANGE
T•231
BY
1
-
-
HI PASS LOW PASS
BYPASS
ON
+12
+17
0
8
OFF
2
2
POWER
-12
40Hz
16kHz
CLIP
6dB 12dB
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
LEVEL
6
FRONT PANEL FEATURES
The controls for Channels 1 and 2 are the same, so
these descriptions apply to both channels.
5. BYPASS
1. EQ Sliders
This button effectively disables the EQ circuits. You
can use this button to compare the EQ’d signal to
the unprocessed signal. When the BYPASS button is
pushed in, the LED below the BYPASS button lights.
When the EQ sliders are in the center position, they
have no effect on the signal. Move a slider up or
down to boost or cut a particular frequency by up to
12 dB ( 6 dB when the RANGE switch is set to 6 dB).
6. CLIP
2. Input LEVEL
This LED lights when the output signal is within 5 dB
of clipping. It is okay if the CLIP LED blinks occasionally,
but if it blinks frequently or stays lit all the time, turn
down either the LEVEL control or the output signal
from the mixer or other device immediately preceding
the T•231.
Use the Input LEVEL control to adjust the gain of the
signal as it passes through the T•231. When the Input
LEVEL control is in the center position, it provides no
gain (unity gain). When the slider is all the way down
the signal is off (-∞), and all the way up provides 17 dB
of gain.
7. RANGE
3. HI-PASS
This determines the maximum boost and cut of
the EQ sliders, either 12 dB or 6 dB (pushed in). The
corresponding LED below the RANGE button indicates
the setting.
The 12 dB setting provides more boost and cut if it
is needed for more drastic EQ requirements. The 6 dB
setting provides less boost and cut, but allows you to
fine tune the controls with more precision.
This button is used to roll-off the frequencies below
40 Hz. The LED below the button lights to indicate
when the HI-PASS filter is turned on.
This is useful to reduce stage rumble (low-frequency
noise from footsteps picked up by microphones on
stage) and microphone-handling noise.
If the T•231 is used with monitor speakers, turning
on this button can reduce the muddiness caused by
the lows from the stage monitors feeding back into
the main output through the microphones.
8. POWER
Use this switch to turn the T•231 on and off. The LED
4. LOW-PASS
above the switch lights when the power is on.
Use this button to roll-off the frequencies above
16 kHz. The LED below the button lights to indicate
when the LOW-PASS filter is turned on.
This is useful to remove hiss and high-frequency
noise from the signal.
9
13
12
SERIAL/DATE CO
CHANNEL 1
OUT
IN
OUT
IN
RISIRE
REPLACE MARKED
9
WARNING
NO OUTDOOR USE
OUT
OUT
IN
IN
10
BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE GROOVY FO
MANUFACTURED IN CHINA
"TAPCO" AND "MACKIE" ARE REGISTERE
LKS IN WOODINVILLE, WA, USA
• FABRI
D
QUE AU CHINE
TRADEMARKS OF
COPYRIGH
UNBAL
BAL/UNBAL
BAL
BAL
LOUD TECHNOLOGIES INC.
•
T
©2003
OUT
IN
CHANNEL 2
OUT
IN
WWW.TAPCOGEAR.COM
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK,
DO NOT EXPOSE THIS EQUIPMENT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE. DO NOT REMOVE COVER.
NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL.
AC 100-120V, 60Hz
AC 200-240V, 50HZ
RATED INPUT: 12.5W
T
AVIS: RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE
—
NE PAS OUVRIR
LIFT
GND
UNBAL
BAL/UNBAL
BAL
BAL
315mA 250V
11
REAR PANEL FEATURES
9. Line Cord Socket and Fuse
However, occasionally a ground loop can be
created in a system where the signal ground is
connected to chassis ground, which can cause a
hum or buzz to appear in the audio signal. If this is
the case, try moving the switch to the LIFT position to
eliminate the hum or buzz.
Here is where you connect the detachable line
cord that came in the box with your T•231. Plug
the other end of the line cord into an AC outlet
properly configured with the voltage required for your
particular model (see AC Select Switch next).
The fuse is located behind the fuse cover, at the
bottom of the IEC socket. See the “Troubleshooting”
section on page 12 for information about replacing
the fuse.
12. OUTPUTS
Three types of connectors are provided for the
outputs — balanced male XLR and 1/4” TRS (Tip-
Ring-Sleeve), and unbalanced RCA. These balanced
outputs are in parallel, and provide exactly the same
signal on all three outputs, regardless of which input
jack is used. You can connect either a balanced TRS
connector or an unbalanced TS connector to the 1/4”
output jack.
10. AC Select Switch
Set this switch to the correct voltage setting for the
country you are in, 115 VAC or 230 VAC.
Note: The T•231 is shipped with the AC Select
switch set to the 230 VAC position. If you are in a
country that uses 100-120 VAC, remove the cover
plate with a phillips-head screwdriver and set the
switch to the 115 VAC position. A 315 mA fuse
is used for both voltages (115V/230V). See the
“Troubleshooting” section on page 12 for instructions
on replacing the fuse.
13. INPUTS
Three types of connectors are provided for the
inputs — balanced female XLR and 1/4” TRS (Tip-Ring-
Sleeve), and unbalanced RCA. These inputs are in
parallel, so do not connect more than one signal at
a time to the input jacks for each channel. You can
connect either a balanced or an unbalanced signal to
the 1/4” input jack.
11. GND LIFT Switch
When the switch is in the GND position, the audio
ground is electrically connected to the chassis
“safety” ground. Normally, this is how the switch is set.
See “Appendix B: Connections” on page 14 for
information on input and output connection wiring.
10
GENERAL PRECAUTIONS AND CONSIDERATIONS
Rack Mounting
The T•231 is designed to be mounted in a standard
rack. It requires two rack spaces (2U = 3.5”). It also
requires 7.5” depth inside the rack, not counting the
rear connectors. When designing your rack, put the
heavier items at the bottom and the lighter items
toward the top.
Secure the front panel of the T•231 to the front of
the rack using four screws with soft washers to prevent
scratching the panel.
Thermal Considerations
Avoid mounting the T•231 directly over devices
that produce heat, such as power amplifiers. As with
all electronic components, it is best to provide cool air
circulation around the T•231 to avoid overheating. The
ambient temperature should not exceed 113˚ F (45˚ C).
AC Power Considerations
Be sure the T•231 is plugged into an AC outlet that
is able to supply the specified voltage, and the AC
Select switch is set to the correct voltage.
Be sure the AC outlet can supply enough current
to allow full power operation of all the components
plugged into it, especially if there are power amplifiers
plugged in. The outlet should be a three-prong socket
that matches the power cord.
WARNING: Bypassing the plug’s
safety ground pin can be
dangerous. Don’t do it!
11
Appendix A: Service Information
No Sound
Warranty Service
•
Is the signal source turned up? Make sure the
Details concerning Warranty Service are spelled
out in the Warranty section on page 19.
signal level from the mixing console (or whatever
device immediately precedes the T•231) is high
enough to produce sound through the system.
If you think your T•231 has a problem, please do
everything you can to confirm it before calling for
service. Doing so might save you from the deprivation
of your equalizer and the associated suffering.
These may sound obvious to you, but here are
some things you can check. Read on.
•
Are you using the T•231 with an insert plug in an
insert jack? Make sure that you are using an insert
cable, and not a mono Y-cable.
Poor sound
Troubleshooting
•
Is it loud and distorted? Turn down the signal
coming from the mixer or signal source.
No Power
•
Is the input connector plugged completely into
the jack? Make sure all connections are good and
sound.
•
•
•
Our favorite question: Is it plugged in? Make sure
the AC outlet is live (check with a tester or lamp).
Our next favorite question: Is the POWER switch
on? If not, try turning it on.
•
Switch the BYPASS switch in and out to compare
the sound with the equalizer in the signal path and
out of the signal path. This can help determine if
the problem is with the T•231 or elsewhere in the
system.
Is the red LED above to the POWER switch
illuminated? If not, make sure the AC outlet is live.
If so, refer to “No Sound” below.
•
Is the fuse blown? If the POWER LED on the front
panel is not illuminated and you are certain that
the AC outlet is live, if is possible the fuse has blown.
Noise/Hum
•
•
•
Check the signal cable between the mixer and
the T•231. Make sure all connections are good
and sound.
To remove and replace the fuse:
1. Disconnect the line cord from the IEC socket.
Make sure the signal cable is not routed near AC
cables, power transformers, or other EMI-inducing
devices.
2. Remove the fuse drawer by prying it open with a
small screwdriver. It will slide all the way out.
Is there a light dimmer or other SCR-based device
on the same AC circuit as the T•231? Use an AC
line filter, or plug the T•231 into a different AC
circuit.
FUSE
3. Remove the fuse and replace it with an
equivalent-type fuse:
315 milliamp slo-blo (T315 A/250 V)
Note: The same fuse is used for both 115 VAC and
230 VAC operation.
4. Replace the fuse drawer by pushing it all the way
back into the IEC socket.
5. Reconnect the line cord and turn the POWER
switch on.
If two fuses blow in a row, then something is wrong.
See the “Repair” section on the next page to find
out what to do.
12
Repair
Service for TAPCO products is available from one
of our authorized domestic service centers or at our
factory, located in sunny Woodinville, Washington.
Service for TAPCO products living outside the United
States can be obtained through local dealers or
distributors.
5. Include a legible note stating your name, shipping
address (no P.O. boxes), daytime phone number,
RA number, and a detailed description of the
problem, including how we can duplicate it.
6. Write the RA number in BIG PRINT on top of the box.
Units sent to us without the RA number will be refused.
If your T•231 needs service, follow these instructions:
1. Review the preceding troubleshooting suggestions.
Please.
7. Ship the T•231 to us. We suggest insurance for all
forms of cartage. Ship to this address:
TAPCO
2. Call Tech Support at 1-877-827-2669, 7 am to 5 pm
PST, to explain the problem and request an RA
(Return Authorization) number. Have your T•231’s
serial number ready. You must have an RA number
before you can obtain warranty service at the
factory or an authorized service center.
SERVICE DEPARTMENT
16220 Wood-Red Road NE
Woodinville, WA 98072
3. Keep this owner’s manual and the detachable line
8. We’ll try to fix the T•231 within five business days.
Ask Tech Support for the latest turn-around times
when you call for your RA number. The T•231
must be packaged in its original packing box,
and must have the RA number on the box. Once
it’s repaired, we’ll ship it back the same way in
which it was received. This paragraph does not
necessarily apply to non-warranty repair.
cord. We don’t need them to repair the T•231.
4. Pack the T•231 in its original package, including
endcaps and box. This is very important. When
you call for the RA number, please let Tech
Support know if you need new packaging. You
can order new packaging through our parts
department. LOUD Technologies is not responsible
for any damage that occurs due to non-factory
packaging.
Lonely? Looking for that special someone? Do you have a question about
your TAPCO product?
Please call our Technical Support folks at 1-877-827-2669, Monday to Friday, from 7 am to 5 pm PST.
13
Appendix B: Connections
XLR Connectors
1/4" TS Phone Plugs and Jacks
The inputs and outputs use 3-pin male and female
XLR connectors. They are wired as follows, according
to standards specified by the AES (Audio Engineering
Society).
“TS” stands for Tip-Sleeve, the two connection
points available on a mono 1/4" phone jack or plug.
They are used for unbalanced signals.
SLEEVE
SLEEVE
TIP
2
SHIELD
COLD
HOT
TIP
TIP
1
3
SLEEVE
1/4" TS Unbalanced Wiring:
Sleeve = Shield
Tip = Hot (+)
SHIELD
COLD
HOT
1
3
2
XLR Balanced Wiring
Pin 1 = Shield
Pin 2 = Hot (+)
1/4" TRS Insert Plugs and Jacks
When patching the T•231 into a channel’s
insert jack, you may need to use a special 1/4" TRS
connector that uses the tip to send the signal to the
T•231, and the ring to return the signal to the channel.
The sleeve is the common ground (earth) for both
signals. These are both unbalanced signals.
Pin 3 = Cold (–)
1/4" TRS Phone Plugs and Jacks
“TRS” stands for Tip-Ring-Sleeve, the three
connection points available on a stereo 1/4" or
balanced phone jack or plug. TRS jacks and plugs are
used for balanced signals.
SEND to processor
ring
“tip”
(TRS plug)
tip
sleeve
RING SLEEVE
SLEEVE RING TIP
This plug connects to the
Channel Insert jack
“ring”
RETURN from processor
TIP
RING
TIP
1/4" TRS Insert Wiring:
Sleeve = Ground
Tip = Send
SLEEVE
1/4" TRS Balanced Wiring:
Ring = Return
Sleeve = Shield
Tip = Hot (+)
Ring = Cold (–)
RCA Plugs and Jacks
RCA-type plugs (also known as phono plugs)
and jacks are often used in home stereo and video
equipment and in many other applications. They are
unbalanced and electrically equivalent to a 1/4" TS
phone plug.
TIP
SLEEVE TIP SLEEVE
RCA Unbalanced Wiring:
Sleeve = Shield
Tip = Hot
14
Appendix C: Technical Info
T•231 Specifications
Frequency Response
Indicators
20 Hz to 20 kHz (+0, –1 dB)
HI-PASS LED
20 Hz to 50 kHz (+0, –3 dB)
LOW-PASS LED
CLIP LED
BYPASS LED
6 dB/12 dB Range LEDs
POWER LED
Audio Input
Type:
Active balanced XLR
and 1/4" jacks
Unbalanced RCA jack
20 kΩ balanced
AC Power and Current Requirements
Impedance:
15 kΩ unbalanced
Power Consumption: 12.5 watts
AC Operating Voltages:
Maximum Input Level: +21 dBu balanced and
unbalanced
U.S.
120 VAC, 60 Hz
Europe
Japan
Korea
240 VAC, 50 Hz
100 VAC, 50/60 Hz
220 VAC, 60 Hz
Audio Output
Type:
Active balanced XLR and
1/4" jacks
Fuse:
315 mA @ 100-240 VAC
Unbalanced RCA jack
<600 Ω
Physical Dimensions and Weight
Impedance:
Maximum Output Level: +18 dBu
Height:
Width:
Depth:
Weight:
3.5 in/89 mm
19.0 in/483 mm
8.7 in/220 mm
9.5 lb/4.3 kg
THD+N @ 1 kHz, +4 dBu: 0.02% @ 1 kHz
(all sliders at center position)
Noise and Hum, unity gain:
< –93 dBu
< –103 dBu
Common Mode Rejection:
> 60 dB
Crosstalk @ 1 kHz:
Disclaimer
Since we are always striving to make our products
better by incorporating new and improved materials,
components, and manufacturing methods, we
reserve the right to change these specifications at
any time without notice.
Graphic EQ
Type:
Frequency Range:
1/3-octave Constant Q
20 Hz to 20 kHz
in 31 third-octave bands
(ISO center frequencies)
20 mm with center detent
Off (∞) to +17 dB
40 Hz @ 12 dB/octave
16 kHz @ 12 dB/octave
Bypasses the graphic equalizer,
Hi-Pass, and Low-Pass
filter sections
Sliders:
Level:
Hi-Pass:
Low-Pass:
Bypass:
Range:
6 dB or 12 dB
15
T•231 Block Diagram
This outlines the signal flow inside the T•231.
16
1 1 5 V
17
Frequency Chart
This chart shows the frequency range covered by various instruments and voices.
Typical Frequency of each Instrument and Voice
Middle C
C D E F G A B C D E F G A B C D E F G A B C D E F G A B C D E F G A B C D E F G A B C D E F G A B C D E F G A B C D E F G A B C
20 25 31 40 50 62 80 100 125 160 200 250 320 400 500 640 800 1K 1.3K1.6K 2K 2.5K 3.1K 4K 5K 6.2K 8K 10K 13K 16K 20K
Human Hearing Range
VOCAL
Soprano
Contralto
Baritone
Bass
WOODWIND
Piccolo
Flute
Oboe
Clarinet in B flat or A
Clarinet in E flat
Bass Clarinet
Basset Hom
English Horn
Bassoon
Double Bassoon
BRASS
Soprano Saxophone
Alto Saxophone
Tenor Saxophone
Baritone Saxophone
Bass Saxophone
Trumpet in C
Trumpet in F
Alto Trombone
Tenor Trombone
Bass Trombone
Tuba
Euphonium
STRINGS
Violin
Viola
Cello
Double Bass
Guitar
KEYBOARDS
Pianoforte
Organ
PERCUSSION
Celesta
Timpani
Xylophone
FREQUENCY
20 25 31 40 50 62 80 100 125 160 200 250 320 400 500 640 800 1K 1.3K 1.6K 2K 2.5K 3.1K 4K 5K 6.2K 8K 10K 13K 16K 20K
18
TAPCO LIMITED WARRANTY
G. LOUD Technologies warrants all repairs performed
A. LOUD Technologies Inc. warrants all materials,
workmanship and proper operation of this TAPCO
product for a period of one year from the original
date of purchase. If any defects are found in the
materials or workmanship, or if the product fails to
function properly during the applicable warranty
period, LOUD Technologies, at its option, will repair
or replace the product. This warranty applies only
to equipment sold and delivered within the U.S. by
LOUD Technologies or its authorized dealers.
for 90 days or for the remainder of the warranty
period. This warranty does not extend to damage
resulting from improper installation, misuse,
neglect or abuse, or to exterior appearance. This
warranty is recognized only if the inspection seals
and serial number on the unit have not been
defaced or removed.
H. LOUD Technologies assumes no responsibility for
the quality or timeliness of repairs performed by
TAPCO Authorized Service Centers.
B. Failure to register online or return the product
registration card will not void the 1-year warranty.
I. This warranty is extended to the original purchaser
and to anyone who may subsequently purchase
this product within the applicable warranty period.
C. Service and repairs of TAPCO products are to be
performed only at the factory, OR at a factory-
authorized service center. Unauthorized service,
repairs, or modification will void this warranty.
J. This is your sole warranty. LOUD Technologies Inc.
does not authorize any third party, including any
dealer or sales representative, to assume any
liability on behalf of LOUD Technologies or to make
any warranty for LOUD Technologies Inc.
D. To obtain service, please follow the instructions
found on page 13.
E. LOUD Technologies Inc. and Authorized TAPCO
Service Centers reserve the right to inspect any
products that may be the subject of any warranty
claims before repair or replacement is carried
out. LOUD Technologies and Authorized TAPCO
Service Centers may, at their option, require
proof of the original date of purchase in the form
of a dated copy of the original dealer’s invoice
or sales receipt. Final determination of warranty
coverage lies solely with LOUD Technologies Inc. or
its Authorized Service Centers.
K. THE WARRANTY GIVEN ON THIS PAGE IS THE SOLE
WARRANTY GIVEN BY LOUD TECHNOLOGIES INC.
AND IS IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS
AND IMPLIED, INCLUDING THE WARRANTIES OF
MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR
PURPOSE. THE WARRANTY GIVEN ON THIS PAGE
SHALL BE STRICTLY LIMITED IN DURATION TO ONE
YEAR FROM THE DATE OF ORIGINAL PURCHASE
FROM AN AUTHORIZED TAPCO DEALER. UPON
EXPIRATION OF THE APPLICABLE WARRANTY PERIOD,
LOUD TECHNOLOGIES SHALL HAVE NO FURTHER
WARRANTY OBLIGATION OF ANY KIND. LOUD
TECHNOLOGIES INC. SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR
ANY INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL
DAMAGES THAT MAY RESULT FROM ANY DEFECT IN
THE TAPCO PRODUCT OR ANY WARRANTY CLAIM.
Some states do not allow exclusion or limitation of
incidental, special, or consequential damages or
a limitation on how long warranties last, so some
of the above limitations and exclusions may not
apply to you. This warranty provides specific legal
rights and you may have other rights which vary
from state to state.
F. TAPCO products returned to LOUD Technologies
and deemed eligible for repair or replacement
under the terms of this warranty will be repaired
or replaced within thirty days of receipt by LOUD
Technologies at our rainforest factory complex.
LOUD Technologies may use refurbished parts for
repair or replacement of any product. Products
returned to LOUD Technologies that do not meet
the terms of this Warranty will be repaired and
returned C.O.D. with billing for labor, materials,
return freight, and insurance. Products repaired
under warranty at the factory will be returned
freight prepaid by LOUD Technologies to any
location within the boundaries of the USA.
Please keep your sales receipt in a safe place.
“Mackie.” and “TAPCO” are registered trademarks
of LOUD Technologies Inc. “Tweeq” is a trademark of
LOUD Technologies Inc.
All other brand names mentioned are trademarks or
registered trademarks of their respective holders, and
are hereby acknowledged.
©2004 LOUD Technologies Inc. All Rights Reserved.
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