Allen & Heath Xone 4D Manual

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USER GUIDE

Publication AP7265

Allen & Heath XONE:4D User Guide


Limited One Year Warranty

This product is warranted to be free from defects in materials or


workmanship for period of one year from the date of purchase by the
original owner.
To ensure a high level of performance and reliability for which this
equipment has been designed and manufactured, read this User Guide
before operating. In the event of a failure, notify and return the
defective unit to ALLEN & HEATH Limited or its authorised agent as
soon as possible for repair under warranty subject to the following
conditions
Conditions Of Warranty
The equipment has been installed and operated in accordance with the
instructions in this User Guide.
The equipment has not been subject to misuse either intended or
accidental, neglect, or alteration other than as described in the User
Guide or Service Manual, or approved by ALLEN & HEATH.
Any necessary adjustment, alteration or repair has been carried out by
ALLEN & HEATH or its authorised agent.
This warranty does not cover fader wear and tear.
The defective unit is to be returned carriage prepaid to ALLEN &
HEATH or its authorised agent with proof of purchase.
Units returned should be packed to avoid transit damage.
In certain territories the terms may vary. Check with your ALLEN &
HEATH agent for any additional warranty which may apply.

This product complies with the European Electro magnetic


Compatibility directives 89/336/EEC & 92/31/EEC and the
European Low Voltage Directives 73/23/EEC & 93/68/EEC.
This product has been tested to EN55103 Parts 1 & 2 1996 for use in
Environments E1, E2, E3, and E4 to demonstrate compliance with the
protection requirements in the European EMC directive 89/336/EEC.
During some tests the specified performance figures of the product were
affected. This is considered permissible and the product has been passed as
acceptable for its intended use. Allen & Heath has a strict policy of
ensuring all products are tested to the latest safety and EMC standards.
Customers requiring more information about EMC and safety issues can
contact Allen & Heath.

XONE:4D User Guide AP7265


Copyright © 2008 Allen & Heath Limited. All rights reserved

Allen & Heath Limited


Kernick Industrial Estate, Penryn, Cornwall, TR10 9LU, UK

http://www.allen-heath.com http://www.xone.co.uk

Allen & Heath 2 XONE:4D User Guide


CONTENTS

Congratulations on purchasing the Allen & Heath Xone:4D performance


DJ mixer. To ensure that you get the maximum benefit from the unit
please spare a few minutes familiarising yourself with the controls and
setup procedures outlined in this user guide. For further information
please refer to the additional information available on our web site, or
contact our technical support team.
http://www.xone.co.uk

Warranty .............................................. 2 MIDI Implementation Chart ............ 40


Packed Items........................................ 4 MIDI Note Chart ............................... 41
Software Installation PC.................... 5 Filter Reference .................................. 42
Checking the Windows Driver Operating Levels................................. 43
Installation ............................................ 7 Earthing................................................. 44
Software Installation MAC................ 8 Cables And Connectors.................... 45
Checking the Mac Driver User Options ...................................... 46
Installation ............................................ 10 Specifications ....................................... 47
MIDI Channel Setup........................... 11 Product Registration.......................... 48
MIDI Map and Light Pipe Setup ....... 12
Soundcard Architecture .................... 13
Soundcard Software Description.... 14
Ableton Setup...................................... 15
Traktor Setup....................................... 16
Panel Drawings.................................... 17
Introduction ......................................... 18
Description .......................................... 19
Soundcard Input Block Diagram ..... 21
Soundcard Output / MIDI
Block Diagram ..................................... 22
Channel Input ...................................... 23
Mix and Monitor ................................. 26
Filters and LFO.................................... 28
FX Returns and Crossfader ............. 29
Front Controls and Connectors..... 30
Rear Connectors ................................ 31
BPM Counter....................................... 34
LFO ........................................................ 36
The LFO Editor................................... 37
MIDI Control Section ........................ 38

Allen & Heath 3 XONE:4D User Guide


PACKED ITEMS

Check that you have received the following:

Safety Sheet
Important ! Read this sheet
before starting.
Xone:4D mixer
Retain for future reference.
Check that the rear panel optical in/out blank plugs are fitted.

Mains Lead
Check that the correct
mains plug is fitted.
Spare knobs
and buttons

Rack Ears + fixings.


For mounting the 4D
in a 19” rack.
Type A-B USB Lead 6x M4x10mm screws
To connect the Xone:4D
to your computer.

Allen & Heath 4 XONE:4D User Guide


SOFTWARE INSTALLATION PC
STOP!
BEFORE YOU DO ANYTHING WITH YOUR XONE:4D, PLEASE READ THE
FOLLOWING CAREFULLY TO ENSURE YOUR PC IS CORRECTLY SET UP TO
BE USED WITH THE DEVICE. PLEASE DOWNLOAD THE LATEST DRIVERS
FROM:
www.xone.co.uk/4d

Software Installation (Windows 2000, XP and Vista)


Follow the procedure described below to install the USB audio and MIDI drivers:

1— Using the provided power supply, connect the


Xone:4D to your mains electricity supply.
Do not connect the 4D to the PC at this time.
2— Open the Drivers folder and run Setup.exe for
Windows XP and Vista or Setup98.exe for Windows 98.

3— Select your preferred language

4— Select Install the driver

5— When prompted, connect the 4D to


the PC with the USB lead.

The Xone:4D will now initialise.

Allen & Heath 5 XONE:4D User Guide


SOFTWARE INSTALLATION PC

6— You will now be asked to unplug your Xone:4D

7— You will now be asked to plug in your Xone:4D again.

The USB drivers will now initialise.

8— Once the driver installation is complete you will be


prompted to reboot your computer.

Note: Always use the same USB port with your Xone:4D. When installing on a MS
Windows system, the drivers will be associated with the USB port that you are currently plugged
into. If you attempt to use the 4D with another USB port, or without installing the drivers at all,
the system may work but with degraded performance (XP, Vista), or may not work at all (2000).

Allen & Heath 6 XONE:4D User Guide


CHECKING THE DRIVER INSTALLATION—WINDOWS
Checking the Driver Installation

Once the driver installation is complete, you will need to check that the Xone:4D is being recog-
nised. To do this, connect the Xone:4D to your PC/laptop and then right click on My Com-
puter to open the System Properties window.

Select the Hardware tab then click on Device


Manager

Expand the Sound, Video and Game Controllers section to reveal the WDM audio and MIDI
drivers for the Xone:4D.

Expand the Universal Serial Bus Controllers section to reveal the Xone:4D ASIO driver and
its release (version) number —in this case V2.8.16.

Allen & Heath 7 XONE:4D User Guide


SOFTWARE INSTALLATION—APPLE MAC
STOP!
BEFORE YOU DO ANYTHING WITH YOUR XONE:4D, PLEASE READ THE
FOLLOWING CAREFULLY TO ENSURE YOUR PC IS CORRECTLY SET UP TO
BE USED WITH THE MIXER.

Mac OSX
Open the Xone_4D_Driver_x.x.x.dmg to reveal the window shown.

Click on the Xone:4D mpkg file to


launch the driver installation.

Click on “Continue”.

Select install location and then


click “Install”.

Allen & Heath 8 XONE:4D User Guide


SOFTWARE INSTALLATION—APPLE MAC

Enter your system password.

Click on “Continue Installation”.

Restart your Mac.

Allen & Heath 9 XONE:4D User Guide


CHECKING THE DRIVER INSTALLATION—APPLE MAC

Checking the Driver Installation

Once the driver installation is complete, you will need to check that the Xone:4D is being recog-
nised. To do this, connect the Xone:4D to your Mac and then select:

Mackintosh HD Applications Utilities Audio MIDI Setup

Now select the Audio tab and in the “Properties For” dropdown box select Allen & Heath
Xone:4D.

In the Audio Input section, the


number of channels should be seen
as 10, running at 24 bit.

In the Audio Output section, the


number of channels should be seen
as 10, running at 24 bit.

The sample rate is selectable from


44.1 to 96kHz.

Now select the MIDI Devices tab


and make sure that the Xone:4D is
seen as a MIDI device as shown.

Allen & Heath 10 XONE:4D User Guide


MIDI CHANNEL SETUP

MIDI Channel Number


The MIDI channel number will default to channel 16, but can be
changed to any channel between 1 and 16.
To change the MIDI channel number and MIDI map:
1. Hold down the switch on the encoder shown in the diagram
2. Turn on the Xone:4D
3. At the end of the start up sequence, when the illuminated
switches have flashed three times, release the switch on the
encoder.
The illuminated switches on the Xone:4D will display the current
MIDI channel number in binary format as shown below.

Hot Setup
You may also enter setup mode by holding down the encoder shown above and then pressing
the same encoder on the right hand MIDI pod. This allows the MIDI channel and Map to be
changed if the mixer is in a fixed installation.

Channel 1 Channel 9

Channel 2 Channel 10

Channel 3 Channel 11

Channel 4 Channel 12

Channel 5 Channel 13

Channel 6 Channel 14

Channel 7 Channel 15

Channel 8 Channel 16

To change the channel number that the MIDI is transmitted on, rotate the encoder above
the jog wheel.
Once the desired channel has been selected, press and then release the switch on the
encoder above the jog wheel. The illuminated switches will flash once indicating that the
channel number has been set.

Allen & Heath 11 XONE:4D User Guide


MIDI MAP AND LIGHT PIPE SETUP

Changing the MIDI Map


Once the MIDI channel number has been stored, the illuminated switch to the far right of
the unit will flash indicating that the MIDI map may now be selected. The following
examples are in relation to the left-hand MIDI pod on the Xone:4D.
Map 1 (Traktor default)

The first switch (far left) is used to select MIDI Map 1. In


this map the top row of encoders send ‘Note On’ mes-
sages upon rotation (see MIDI Control Section p39).
The third button (centre right) is used to determine the status of the light rings. If the
third light ring is illuminated, then during normal operation all four light rings will stay
illuminated at all times.

If the third light ring is not illuminated then each light ring will toggle on and off on re-
ceipt of a specific MIDI ‘Note On’ message. The ‘Note On’ message that the light ring
responds to is the same ‘Note On’ message that is sent by the corresponding switch.
Therefore, referencing the MIDI Control Section, the first (far left) light pipe will tog-
gle on and off when it receives a ‘Note On’ message of D1.

Map 2 (Ableton default)

The second switch (centre left) is used to select MIDI Map


2. In this map the top row of encoders send ‘Control
Change’ messages upon rotation (see MIDI Control Sec-
tion p39).
The third button (centre right) is used to determine the status of the light rings. If the
third light ring is illuminated, then during normal operation all four light rings will toggle
on and off when their respective switch is pressed.

If the third light ring is not illuminated then each light ring will toggle on and off on re-
ceipt of a specific MIDI ‘Note On’ message. The ‘Note On’ message that the light ring
responds to is the same ‘Note On’ message that is sent by the corresponding switch.
Therefore, referencing the MIDI Control Section, the second (middle left) light pipe
will toggle on and off when it receives a ‘Note On’ message of B-1.

When the desired MIDI map has been selected, press and release the switch on the
encoder above the jog wheel. The illuminated switches will flash three times indicating
that the MIDI map has been stored and that the unit is now in its normal operating mode.

Allen & Heath 12 XONE:4D User Guide


SOUNDCARD ARCHITECTURE

ANALOGUE INPUTS:
The analogue inputs are sourced from the input channels on the Xone:4D as
follows:
Channel Soundcard Input Selectable From
1 1/2 Mic or Channel 1 (Pre or Post Fader)
2 3/4 FX2 or Channel 2 (Pre or Post Fader)
3 5/6 FX1 or Channel 3 (Pre or Post Fader)
4 7/8 Mix or Channel 4 (Pre or Post Fader)

DIGITAL INPUTS:
The SPDIF digital inputs are sourced directly from the digital input sockets on the
rear of the Xone:4D. The soundcard will internally switch between the COAX
and Optical inputs, with the COAX connection being the default. The digital
inputs are sent directly to the soundcard on inputs 9/10.

ANALOGUE OUTPUTS:
The analogue outputs are sent to the mixer from the PC/Mac and can be sourced
as follows:
Channel Soundcard Output Routing
1 1/2 Channel SC1-2 switch and rear panel
RCA connectors
2 3/4 Channel SC3-4 switch and rear panel
RCA connectors
3 5/6 Channel SC5-6 switch and rear panel
RCA connectors
4 7/8 Channel SC7-8 switch

DIGITAL OUTPUTS:
The SPDIF digital outputs are sent directly to the digital output sockets on the
rear of the Xone:4D. The digital output will be present on both the COAX and
Optical output connectors simultaneously. The digital outputs are sent directly
from software on soundcard outputs 9/10.

SPDIF DIGITAL INPUTS AND OUTPUTS


SPDIF is a popular digital audio interfacing standard for connecting two channel
(stereo) audio using a single COAX (RCA phono socket) or optical fibre (Toslink
socket) cable.
The SPDIF inputs and outputs are available only when your computer is
connected via the USB port. The computer provides the clocks needed for the
soundcard to function.
Sample rates of up to 96kHz are supported.

Allen & Heath 13 XONE:4D User Guide


SOUNDCARD SOFTWARE DESCRIPTION

SOFTWARE DESCRIPTION
The inputs and outputs of the soundcard have a description within the software being
used. Below are the descriptions used in Ableton and Traktor.

Soundcard Input Ableton Descriptor Traktor Descriptor


1-2 1/2 (Stereo) IN 0-Allen&Heath Xone:4D
1 (Mono) & 2 (Mono) IN 1-Allen&Heath Xone:4D
3-4 3/4 (Stereo) IN 2-Allen&Heath Xone:4D
3 (Mono) & 4 (Mono) IN 3-Allen&Heath Xone:4D
5-6 5/6 (Stereo) IN 4-Allen&Heath Xone:4D
5 (Mono) & 6 (Mono) IN 5-Allen&Heath Xone:4D
7-8 7/8 (Stereo) IN 6-Allen&Heath Xone:4D
7 (Mono) & 8 (Mono) IN 7-Allen&Heath Xone:4D
9-10 (Digital in 1-2) 9/10 (Stereo) IN 8-Allen&Heath Xone:4D
9 (Mono) & 10(Mono) IN 9-Allen&Heath Xone:4D

Soundcard Output Ableton Descriptor Traktor Descriptor


1-2 1/2 (Stereo) OUT 0-Allen&Heath Xone:4D
1 (Mono) & 2 (Mono) OUT 1-Allen&Heath Xone:4D
3-4 3/4 (Stereo) OUT 2-Allen&Heath Xone:4D
3 (Mono) & 4 (Mono) OUT 3-Allen&Heath Xone:4D
5-6 5/6 (Stereo) OUT 4-Allen&Heath Xone:4D
5 (Mono) & 6 (Mono) OUT 5-Allen&Heath Xone:4D
7-8 7/8 (Stereo) OUT 6-Allen&Heath Xone:4D
7 (Mono) & 8 (Mono) OUT 7-Allen&Heath Xone:4D
9-10 (Digital Out 3-4) 9/10 (Stereo) OUT 8-Allen&Heath Xone:4D
9 (Mono) & 10 (Mono) OUT 9-Allen&Heath Xone:4D

Supported Buffer Sizes


The Xone:4D supports the following buffer sizes:

64, 96, 128, 192, 256, 384, 512, 768, 1024 etc.

Allen & Heath 14 XONE:4D User Guide


ABLETON SET UP

Turn on your Xone:4D, launch your Ableton software and open the Preferences window.

1— In the Preferences window select the Audio


tab. Change the driver type to ASIO and set the Au-
dio Device to Xone:4D USB ASIO driver

In the Settings section click on the Input Config but-


ton.

2— Select the Stereo options and de-select the Mono


options. You must click OK for the changes to take
effect.

Now, in the Settings section of the Audio tab, click on


the Output Config button.

3—Select the Stereo options and de-select the Mono


options. You must click OK for the changes to take
effect.

Now select the MIDI Sync tab of the Preferences


window.

4— Set the Track, Sync and Remote to On for the


Xone:4D MIDI Input and Output.

Allen & Heath 15 XONE:4D User Guide


TRAKTOR SET UP

Turn on your Xone:4D, launch your Traktor software and open the Preferences window.

1— In the Preferences window, expand the


Audio Setup section and select Soundcard. Set
the Audio Device to Xone:4D USB ASIO
driver’

Now select Input Routing.

2— In the Input Routing section, assign the


Xone:4D analogue or digital inputs to the re-
quired deck.

Now select Output Routing.

3— In the Output Routing section, first make


sure that the Mixer Mode is set to External.
Now assign the Xone:4D analogue or digital out-
puts to the required deck.

4— In the Preferences window expand the


Hotkey & MIDI Setup section, select
MIDI Interfaces, double click the Active
box next the Xone:4D MIDI and an X will
appear. This will activate the MIDI from the
Xone:4D.

Allen & Heath 16 XONE:4D User Guide


PANEL DRAWINGS

CAUTION
INPUT 4 INPUT 3 INPUT 2 INPUT 1 FX RETURNS
LINE L R PHONO L R PHONO L R PHONO L R FX1 L R
WARNING: FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST RISK OF FIRE A
REPLACE FUSE WITH SAME TYPE AND RATING.
ATTENTION: REMPLACER PAR UN FUSIBLE
STRICTEMENT IDENTIQUE EN VALEURS.
LINE L R LINE L R LINE L R LINE L R FX2 L R GAME/MIDI
WARNING: THIS APPARATUS MUST BE EARTHED.
TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK B
DO NOT EXPOSE APPARATUS TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
FOOT
AC MAINS IN ~ SWITCH
OFF SPDIF
0 FX2 SEND
I ON MIX OUT MONITOR FX1 SEND (REC OUT)
SOUNDCARD OUTPUTS DIGITAL AUDIO MIDI
T500mAL 250V 20mm LEFT RIGHT IN USB
L L L CH1 CH3 CH5 OPTICAL IN OUT
FUSE L L L
OUT IN OUT TO PC
CH2 CH4 CH6
R R R
SERIAL No: R R R

100 - 240V~
47-63Hz ~ 30W MAX MADE IN THE UK BY ALLEN & HEATH LIMITED

PHONES MIC

Allen & Heath 17 XONE:4D User Guide


INTRODUCTION TO THE XONE:4D

Welcome to the Allen & Heath Xone:4D digital DJ workstation. This system has
been designed with the help of some of the world’s most cutting edge DJs to
provide a seamless integration of traditional and computer-based audio replay
systems. The Xone:4D comprises three main sections:
MIXER— The mixer is based on the award-winning Allen & Heath Xone:92. It
lets you mix a combination of vinyl, CD and other sources through 4 stereo
channels to its main mix and monitor outputs. It provides 2 effects send/return
loops, 3-band EQ isolators, 2 analogue VCF filters with LFO, VCA crossfader and
channel faders, DJ mic and cue monitoring system. A BPM counter can be set for
tap tempo or automatic beat detection.
MIDI CONTROLLER— Two dedicated control strips provide a total of 105
MIDI messages from a combination of switches, rotary and fader controls, multi-
function jog wheels, foot pedal and game controllers. A MIDI shift mode allows all
of the controls to be mapped for a second time, giving the MIDI surface a second
‘page’. A fader pick-up algorithm has been incorporated into the mixer allowing
seamless integration of the pages. In addition, several mixer functions generate
and respond to MIDI, and the BPM counter provides MIDI start/stop and clock.
The Xone:4D provides full control of external MIDI devices including the most
sophisticated DJ performance computer environments. Overlays are available to
identify the control function for popular software applications.
SOUNDCARD— A high performance 20-channel USB2.0 soundcard is built into
the mixer. The soundcard features 4 analogue stereo inputs and four analogue
stereo outputs, transmitting audio at 96kHz with 24 bit resolution. It uses USB to
interface the mixer audio and MIDI to a PC where the sound may be manipulated
in real time using one of the several exciting new DJ performance applications.
The soundcard also produces SPDIF COAX and optical digital inputs and outputs.
A low latency ASIO driver is provided for audio streaming between mixer and PC.

SOUNDCARD

MIDI BPM MIXER MIDI


FX1

FX2

MASTER

EQ

LFO

MONITOR

CUE

CH1 CH2 CH3 CH4

CROSSFADER

FILTER 1 FILTER 2

PHONES MIC

Allen & Heath 18 XONE:4D User Guide


DESCRIPTION

MIXER
Each of the 4 channels can select one of 3 sources: phono, line or soundcard
audio as shown. RIAA phono preamps are available on channels 1, 2 and 3.
These may be changed to line input by resetting an internal jumper link if required.
Level may be adjusted over a +/- 10dB range if the signal reads too high or low on
the channel meters. The 3-band EQ provides a safe amount of boost but full cut
(kill) for dramatic effect. A mic input with level and 2-band EQ routes direct to
the main mix. The DJ cues the mix using headphones. The mix may be added to
the cue’d channel signal to help the DJ synchronise the beat.

FILTERS
The channel signal may be routed direct to the LR mix or through either of the
two analogue filters. These provide the characteristic Allen & Heath analogue
filter sound with combinations of 3 switched bands, swept frequency, resonance
and tap tempo LFO control. The VCA crossfader affects the filter path when
switched in.

FX LOOPS
Two FX sends are provided. FX1 may be switched pre or post fader, while FX2
is pre fader. The send is typically connected to an effects device or sampler, then
routed back to the mix via one of the two FX return inputs.

OUTPUTS
The balanced XLR mix output feeds the house sound system. The monitor
output follows the main mix and can provide a booth monitor, alternative zone or
recording feed.

BPM COUNTER
Displays the BPM (beats per minute) of a music track entered manually by tapping
a button in time to the music, or automatically by analysing the signal routed to it.
The signal may be routed from the main mix or from an individual channel via the
pre-fade FX2 mix so that the beat may be calculated and checked before the track
is routed to the mix.
The BPM counter outputs MIDI clock so that a slave device such as a hardware or
software sequencer can be synchronized to the timing of a track playing through
the Xone:4D. To aid synchronization the MIDI clock can be momentarily speeded
up or slowed down by operating the PUSH/PULL lever.

UV REACTIVE PAINT
The white artwork on the front panel of the Xone:4D uses a UV reactive layer
and will therefore glow under UV light to improve visibility in low level light
conditions.

Allen & Heath 19 XONE:4D User Guide


DESCRIPTION

MIDI CONTROL
MIDI (musical instrument digital interface) is a standardised protocol for
communication between electronic music devices as well as between those
devices and computers. Two identical banks of MIDI controls are provided on
either side of the mixer section. These bring control of remote performance
equipment such as computer-based sound manipulation and sequencing, samplers,
effects and even lighting right to the mixer control surface. The function of the
controls may be identified using overlay sheets, samples of which are supplied
with the Xone:4D.
The control banks comprise both linear and rotary faders, rotary encoders with
integrated switches, push button switches with and without light ring indicators,
and large dedicated jog wheels with four position switches. A footswitch socket
and the 15-pin Game port provide control voltage input, which produce further
MIDI output from foot pedal, joystick and custom-wired controllers. Operation
of these controls does not affect any audio signals directly, but is automatically
translated into MIDI messages according to a pre-configured MIDI ‘map’. The
MIDI channel number, map and other functions are selected during the start-up
configuration procedure. Two MIDI maps are available to suit the various
performance software applications currently available. Further details are
provided later in this guide.
In addition to the dedicated MIDI controls, some of the DJ mixer functions also
output MIDI messages when operated. These include all switches with light rings,
the filter frequency controls, the crossfader, and BPM start/stop and clock. The
MIDI data is sent out of the mixer via the rear panel MIDI out and Game port
sockets, and is simultaneously transferred to a connected computer via the USB
interface. The MIDI surface has two ‘pages’, allowing all of the MIDI controls (with
the exception of the crossfader), to be mapped twice.

SOUNDCARD
The 20-channel USB2.0 soundcard is built into the mixer to ensure the highest
performance and lowest noise. 24-bit converters are used at a maximum
sampling rate of 96kHz, together with low latency ASIO drivers supplied by Allen
& Heath.
There are 4 stereo (8 mono) analogue and 1 stereo (2 mono) digital inputs to the
PC/Mac from the Xone:4D, and 4 stereo (8 mono) analogue and 1 stereo (2
mono) digital outputs from the PC/Mac to the Xone:4D.
The soundcard input block diagram is shown overleaf.

Allen & Heath 20 XONE:4D User Guide


SOUNDCARD INPUT BLOCK DIAGRAM

SOUNDCARD

IN 9/10

Auto-Sense
IN 7/8
IN 5/6
USB2.0
IN 3/4
IN 1/2

ADC ADC ADC ADC


Ch1 Pre Fade

FX2 Send

Ch3 Pre Fade


Ch2 Pre Fade

FX1 Send
Ch4 Pre Fade

Main Mix
Microphone Input

Post-Fade Channel Send

Note:
The pre-fade channel send
is sourced after the phono/
line input switch. From
this, the soundcard input LF HF LEVEL

can only be routed back to -12 +12 -12 +12 0 10

software when the pre/ PHONES MIC

post switch is set to post.

Allen & Heath 21 XONE:4D User Guide


SOUNDCARD OUTPUT / MIDI BLOCK DIAGRAM

SOUNDCARD

OUT 9/10
OUT 7/8
OUT 5/6
USB2.0
OUT 3/4
OUT 1/2

DAC DAC DAC DAC


SOUNDCARD

Line Input Line Input Line Input Line Input

Phono Input Phono Input Phono Input Line Input

Xone:4D Xone:4D Xone:4D Xone:4D


Channel 1 Channel 2 Channel 3 Channel 4

MIDI

COMPUTER

MIDI CONTROL

MIDI TO USB MIDI CLOCK

MIDI OUT

MIDI OUT
MIDI OUT
GAME/MIDI MAPPING

MAP1
MIDI IN MAP2
MIDI IN

LEFT BANK
CV IN
RIGHT BANK
FOOTSWITCH
CV IN MIXER

Allen & Heath 22 XONE:4D User Guide


MIXER SECTION — CHANNEL INPUT

FX 1-2 send controls

1 1 These controls adjust the signal level that


is sent from each channel to the two FX
mix busses. These signals will appear at
the RCA sockets on the rear of the unit.
FX1 PRE switch determines whether the
FX1 send signal is affected by the channel
fader. When pressed the signal is pre-
2 3 fader, when released post-fader.
FX1 can also be sent to the input of the
soundcard for processing or recording by
the PC (see Soundcard Mode for
details).
FX2 is pre-fader (this can be changed
internally - see User Options). FX2 can
also be selected as the audio source for
the Auto Beat detector (See BPM
Detector).

Input Selection
2 Two switches select one of three possible
stereo audio sources; Line A (RIAA phono
on CH 1-3), Line B, or output from the
computer via the internal soundcard (SC1-
6). Switch 2 (SC) overrides switch 1
(phono/line). The LED indicator displays
which source is active:
CH1 CH2 CH3 CH4
Switch1 gn LineA Phono Phono Phono
Switch1 red LineB LineB LineB LineB
Switch2 red SC1-2 SC3-4 SC5-6 SC1-2

Soundcard Input Selection Switches


3 Two switches select one of three possible
soundcard input sources. All channels have
the option of pre or post channel fader
sends as well as the microphone input, FX1
bus, FX2 bus and main mix. The selector
switches are set up as follows:
Ch Switch 1 Switch 2
1 Mic / Channel Pre / Post fader
2 FX2 / Channel Pre / Post fader
3 FX1 / Channel Pre / Post fader
4 Mix / Channel Pre / Post fader

Allen & Heath 23 XONE:4D User Guide


MIXER SECTION — CHANNEL INPUT

Channel Level Control


3 This control has a range of +/- 10dB either
side of the 0dB centre position. Use it to
adjust the signal level of an audio source to
give a nominal 0dB reading on the channel
meter, with the peak level at or below
+6dB. Turn LEVEL down if the +10 peak
meter starts flashing.

Channel Equalizer/Isolator
3 4 The Xone:4D is equipped with a very
powerful 3 band EQ stage providing a
controlled +6dB of boost when fully
clockwise but full isolation (cut) of each
band for dramatic effect when fully anti-
clockwise. Centre frequencies are set at:
HF = 10kHz (high frequency, treble)
4 MF = 1.2kHz (mid frequency)
LF = 120Hz (low frequency, bass)

Filter/Crossfade Assignment
5 The channel signal can be routed directly
to the main mix or via either of the two
filter/crossfade paths. Note that the
5 crossfade affects the filter path only.
Set the 3-position switch to its mid
position to route the signal direct to the
6 mix, or to its left or right positions to
route the signal to filter-1/crossfade-X or
filter-2/crossfade-Y respectively.
To enable the crossfader check that the
XFADE ON switch above the filter1
controls is pressed.

Cue Switch
6 Press the cue switch to listen to the channel
pre-fade signal in the headphones and see its
level on the main meters. The LED
indicator ring around the switch lights up
when selected. The big red CUE ACTIVE
indicator also lights to warn that you are
monitoring the channel signal rather than
the main mix.
Press the switch to deselect cue. The
switches are interlocked; pressing another
one turns off the previous selection.

Allen & Heath 24 XONE:4D User Guide


MIXER SECTION — CHANNEL INPUT

Channel Meter
7 Displays the channel signal level. It is pre-EQ
and pre-fader. This means it is not affected
by the EQ or fader position.
The channel level control should be set so
that the meter averages around ‘0’ with
loudest peaks no higher than ‘+6’. Turn
down the level control if the +10 peak
indicator lights.

Channel Fader
8 A high quality, smooth travel dual-rail fader
adjusts the channel signal level from fully off
to fully on.

7
8

Allen & Heath 25 XONE:4D User Guide


MIXER SECTION — MIX AND MONITOR

Mix / Monitor Meters


1
The main meters follow the selected
monitor source. The meter reads ‘0’ for
an XLR output of +4dBu. The mixer
should be operated with these meters
1 averaging around ‘0’ with loudest peaks no
higher than ‘+6’.

Record to FX2 Switch


2
Selecting this switch will send the pre-fade
mix output to the FX2 Send RCA sockets
2 on the rear of the mixer.
The mix signal is switched after the
internal FX2 buss, allowing the FX2 Send
controls to still be used for software effect
3 loops and a source for the BPM counter.

Mix Master Level Control


4 3 A rotary master control adjusts the level of
the main mix XLR outputs feeding the house
5 sound system. This does not affect the
monitor output or the meter reading.

Monitor Master Level Control


4 Adjusts the level of the signal to the stereo
6 monitor RCA output. This does not affect
the headphones. The monitor output could
be used for a booth monitor, recording or
an additional zone feed.

7 Cue Active LED


5 A large red LED indicator lights when a
channel CUE is active. This indicates that
the selected channel CUE signal is heard in
the headphones and displayed on the
8 monitor meters.

Monitor Select Switches


6 In the normal ‘up’ position the headphones
and meters monitor the pre-level main mix.
Press these switches to select either of the
stereo FX mixes as the headphones and
meter source. Note that this does not affect
the main mix or monitor outputs.

Allen & Heath 26 XONE:4D User Guide


MIXER SECTION — MIX AND MONITOR

Cue / Add Mix Control


7 Allows the main mix output to be added to
the CUE signal. Turned fully anti-clockwise,
only the active CUE signal is heard through
the headphones when selected. Gradually
turning clockwise introduces the main mix
output to the headphones, adding to the ac-
tive CUE. This does not affect the meters.

Headphones Level Control


8 Adjusts the level of the headphones signal.

Warning ! To avoid damage


82! to your hearing do not
operate the headphones or
sound system at excessively
high volume. Continued
exposure to high volume
sound can cause frequency
selective or wide range
hearing loss.

Allen & Heath 27 XONE:4D User Guide


MIXER SECTION — FILTERS and LFO
LFO Tap Tempo button
1
Tap the tap tempo button in time with the beat
to set the frequency of the LFO.

LFO Depth control


2
When assigned, the LFO modulates the filter with a
cyclic frequency sweep effect in time to the beat set
using the tap tempo button. The depth control
adjusts how much effect the LFO has on the filter
effect from fully off to very deep. For more
information, including the LFO editor function, see
1 page 37.

LFO Filter Assign Switch


2 3 Use this switch to assign the LFO to either or both
the filters.

3 Resonance Control
4 This produces the classic analogue VCF sound by
feeding some of the filter output back to its input.
The control ranges from ‘mild’ producing a very
subtle effect, to ‘wild’ producing a dramatic phase
effect with feedback just short of oscillation.
4
HPF Button
5 Turns on the high pass (bass cut) filter slope. The
light ring around the button illuminates when
5 selected.

BPF Button
6 6 Turns on the band pass (bell shaped) filter slope.
The light ring around the button illuminates when
selected.

7 LPF Button
7 Turns on the low pass (treble cut) filter slope. The
light ring around the button illuminates when
selected.
8
Frequency Sweep Control
8 This control sets the –3dB cut-off frequency of the
filter. It ranges from very low frequency (20Hz) to
9 very high (20kHz).

Filter On Switch
9 Switches the filter on and off. The light ring around
the button illuminates when the filter is active.

Allen & Heath 28 XONE:4D User Guide


MIXER SECTION — FX RTN & CROSSFADER

FILTER 1 MIX BUS


FILTER 2 MIX BUS
MAIN LR MIX BUS
XFADE ON

XFADE CURVE
CROSSFADER
X Y

FILTER 2 MIX

FILTER 1 MIX

FILTER / XFADE SELECT LFO DEPTH

FROM INPUT CHANNEL


FILTER 1 TAP TEMPO FILTER 2
DC

1
VCA
X1 2Y
OFF

VCA

FX Return Controls
1 These controls route the incoming signal
from the stereo FX1 and FX2 Return RCA
connectors on the rear panel to the mix.
They adjust how much return signal is
added to the mix.

Crossfader
3 2 This lets you fade between signals routed to
either side, typically to fade smoothly into a
4 new music track or to creatively layer
sounds when scratch or cut mixing.
The crossfader is a VCA controller, which
affects the level of signals routed via the
filters. Make sure the toggle switches on the
channels you wish to fade are set to X or Y
as appropriate.
Please contact your Allen and Heath
approved service centre for crossfader
service or replacement.

Xfade on switch
3 Press this switch to activate the crossfader.

XFade Curve Control


4 This control adjusts the crossfader curve
between dipped response, ideal for seamless
beat mixing and fast-attack, suitable for
scratch or cut mixing.

Allen & Heath 29 XONE:4D User Guide


FRONT CONTROLS & CONNECTORS

LF HF LEVEL

-12 +12 -12 +12 0 10

PHONES MIC

1 2 3 4

Headphones Outputs
1
Stereo 1/4” TRS jack and 3.5mm mini-jack. Plug in
good quality stereo headphones intended for DJ
monitoring. Use closed-ear headphones that
provide maximum acoustic isolation when cueing
your sources. We recommend that you use high
quality headphones rated between 30 to 100 ohms
impedance. 8 ohm headphones are not
recommended.

2 Mic EQ Controls
The MIC equaliser provides a tool to adjust the
tonal quality of the sound to correct source
problems such as microphone response, proximity
effect, noise and feedback, to help the voice cut
through the mix, or to adjust the overall ‘feel’.
Start with the EQ controls set to their mid (flat)
position, then adjust to achieve the desired sound.

3 Mic Input
Balanced XLR. Plug in a DJ, guest or announcement
microphone here. Use a good quality low
impedance dynamic mic such as those specifically
designed for vocals. Do not use high impedance or
unbalanced microphones, or condenser types which
require phantom power. Use the best professional
grade balanced cables and connectors you can
afford, as these are typically subject to intense use
and abuse in the club environment.

4 Mic Level Control


Adjusts the input sensitivity of the Mic channel to
match the connected source to the console’s 0dB
operating level.
When the Mic channel is not in use, always turn the
level control fully anti-clockwise to prevent
unwanted noise from this sensitive input entering
the main Mix.

Allen & Heath 30 XONE:4D User Guide


REAR CONNECTORS

3 2 4 5
CAUTION
INPUT 4 INPUT 3 INPUT 2 INPUT 1 FX RETURNS
LINE L R PHONO L R PHONO L R PHONO L R FX1 L R
WARNING: FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST RISK OF FIRE A
REPLACE FUSE WITH SAME TYPE AND RATING.
ATTENTION: REMPLACER PAR UN FUSIBLE
STRICTEMENT IDENTIQUE EN VALEURS.
LINE L R LINE L R LINE L R LINE L R FX2 L R GAME/MIDI
WARNING: THIS APPARATUS MUST BE EARTHED.
TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK B
DO NOT EXPOSE APPARATUS TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
FOOT
AC MAINS IN ~ SPDIF SWITCH
0 OFF FX2 SEND
I ON MIX OUT MONITOR FX1 SEND (REC OUT) SOUNDCARD OUTPUTS DIGITAL AUDIO MIDI
T500mAL 250V 20mm LEFT RIGHT IN USB
L L L CH1 CH3 CH5 OPTICAL IN OUT
FUSE L L L
OUT IN OUT TO PC
CH2 CH4 CH6
R R R
SERIAL No: R R R

100 - 240V~
47-63Hz ~ 30W MAX MADE IN THE UK BY ALLEN & HEATH LIMITED

AC Mains Input CH1-4 Stereo Line Input


1 2
IEC cable with moulded mains plug RCA phono.
suitable for your local supply. Connect stereo line level music
Important: Read the SAFETY sources such as CD, MD, DAT,
INSTRUCTIONS sheet drum machines, keyboards or
included with the Xone:4D and other instruments. Do not
printed on the rear panel. connect turntables which require
RIAA equalisation. Alternatively,
Check that the correct mains lead you can connect to jack sources
with moulded plug has been using a cable with RCA to jack
supplied with your console. The adapters. Avoid using low grade
power supply accepts mains cables such as those often supplied
voltages within the range 100-240V with domestic equipment as these
without changing any fuses or can quickly prove unreliable in use.
settings.
Ensure that the IEC mains plug is
pressed fully into the rear panel
socket before switching on.
Note: It is standard practice to CH1-3 Stereo Phono Input
turn connected power amplifiers 3 RCA phono.
down or off before switching the
console on or off. This prevents Plug in turntables with magnetic
any audible switch-on thumps. cartridges requiring RIAA
equalisation. For non-RIAA
turntables plug into the LINE input
instead. Do not plug in line level
sources to the phono inputs as
these will overload the preamp and
cause severe high level distortion.
FX1-2 Line Return Input
4
RCA phono. Chassis Earth Terminal
Connect stereo line level sources 5 A screw terminal is provided for
such as the return signal from connecting the earth straps from
external effects units. These inputs turntables. This connection earths
are routed directly to the main mix the metal parts of the turntable to
as the default setting, but this can reduce hum, buzz or similar
be changed internally to send them audible noise getting into the
to the Filters and crossfader (see system.
User Options)

Allen & Heath 31 XONE:4D User Guide


REAR CONNECTORS

CAUTION
INPUT 4 INPUT 3 INPUT 2 INPUT 1 FX RETURNS
LINE L R PHONO L R PHONO L R PHONO L R FX1 L R
WARNING: FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST RISK OF FIRE A
REPLACE FUSE WITH SAME TYPE AND RATING.
ATTENTION: REMPLACER PAR UN FUSIBLE
STRICTEMENT IDENTIQUE EN VALEURS.
LINE L R LINE L R LINE L R LINE L R FX2 L R GAME/MIDI
WARNING: THIS APPARATUS MUST BE EARTHED.
TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK B
DO NOT EXPOSE APPARATUS TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
FOOT
AC MAINS IN ~ SWITCH
OFF SPDIF
0 FX2 SEND
I ON MIX OUT MONITOR FX1 SEND (REC OUT)
SOUNDCARD OUTPUTS DIGITAL AUDIO MIDI
T500mAL 250V 20mm LEFT RIGHT IN USB
L L L CH1 CH3 CH5 OPTICAL IN OUT
FUSE L L L
OUT IN OUT TO PC
CH2 CH4 CH6
R R R
SERIAL No: R R R

100 - 240V~
47-63Hz ~ 30W MAX MADE IN THE UK BY ALLEN & HEATH LIMITED

6 7 8 9 10

Mix Output SPDIF DIGITAL INPUTS


6 10 AND OUTPUTS
Balanced XLR. This is the main
output that feeds the house PA SPDIF is a popular digital audio interfacing
system. Plug into the house standard for connecting two channel
processor/amplifier system using (stereo) audio using a single COAX (RCA
balanced cables. Use balanced phono socket) or optical fibre (Toslink
cables and equipment. socket) cable.
For reliable connection use a 75 ohm
COAX cable intended for this function.
Monitor Output Avoid the use of cheap audio cables. Use
7 purpose made optical fibre cables for
RCA phono. Provides a line level connection using the Toslink port. Make
stereo feed to the DJ local monitor sure the blanking plugs provided are fitted
amplifier system. It is not affected to any unused Toslink sockets.
by the master fader or cue system.
The SPDIF inputs and outputs are available
Can also be used as an alternative only when your computer is connected via
zone or record output. the USB port. The computer provides the
clocks needed for the soundcard to
FX1-2 Send Output function.
8 Sample rates ranging from 44.1 to 96kHz
RCA phono. Depending on the
application of the FX mix, these stereo are supported.
line level outputs can be used to feed
samplers and other effects units, an
additional monitor, zone or recorder.
The FX2 Send RCA connectors can also
be switched on the front panel to provide
a record output (see page 26).

Soundcard Outputs
9 RCA phono.
Outputs from the internal soundcard.
These are always available irrespective of
the source selection on the stereo
channels. These outputs could be fed to
an additional mixer or processor before
being brought back into the mix.
Depending on the soundcard operating
mode, signals are available on sockets 1-6
or 1-4.

Allen & Heath 32 XONE:4D User Guide


REAR CONNECTORS

13 14
CAUTION
INPUT 4 INPUT 3 INPUT 2 INPUT 1 FX RETURNS
LINE L R PHONO L R PHONO L R PHONO L R FX1 L R
WARNING: FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST RISK OF FIRE A
REPLACE FUSE WITH SAME TYPE AND RATING.
ATTENTION: REMPLACER PAR UN FUSIBLE
STRICTEMENT IDENTIQUE EN VALEURS.
LINE L R LINE L R LINE L R LINE L R FX2 L R GAME/MIDI
WARNING: THIS APPARATUS MUST BE EARTHED.
TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK B
DO NOT EXPOSE APPARATUS TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
FOOT
AC MAINS IN ~ SPDIF SWITCH
0 OFF FX2 SEND
I ON MIX OUT MONITOR FX1 SEND (REC OUT) SOUNDCARD OUTPUTS DIGITAL AUDIO MIDI
T500mAL 250V 20mm LEFT RIGHT IN USB
L L L CH1 CH3 CH5 OPTICAL IN OUT
FUSE L L L
OUT IN OUT TO PC
CH2 CH4 CH6
R R R
SERIAL No: R R R

100 - 240V~
47-63Hz ~ 30W MAX MADE IN THE UK BY ALLEN & HEATH LIMITED

11 12
MIDI Input / Output Gameport Connector
11 5 pin DIN socket.
13 The gameport connector (15pin D-type)
Connect to either a MIDI lets you add additional controllers such as
interface or directly to MIDI an analogue joystick, or a third MIDI
compatible equipment using a output socket using a standard gameport
standard 5 pin DIN (MIDI) lead. to MIDI adapter.
The MIDI output socket data Note: this port has no MIDI input
duplicates what is sent via the USB connection.
connection to the PC, and to the
gameport. This interface will convert the movement
of a connected joystick into MIDI CC and
MIDI in can be used to remotely Note information; it cannot be used to
control the status of all switches control PC games, so don’t try it with
that have associated LED light rings your latest flight sim…..
(with the exception of the BPM,
LFO and Stop/Start. It is also possible to build a custom
interface using general purpose switches
You can connect the MIDI OUT of and potentiometers. We recommend 10k
one Xone:4D to the MIDI IN of or 20k ohm linear law pots. A simple
another.
MIDI OUT 2

USB Connector
12 +5V

USB (Universal Serial Bus) V2.0 is


an external peripheral interface
9 10 11 12 13 14 15
NC

standard for data transmission.


1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Xone:4D USB works at 480Mbps


and provides up to 20 +5V

uncompressed audio channels. +5V

+5V +5V
The USB connection is used to
send/receive audio and MIDI data +5V

between the Xone:4D and the


connected computer.
Use a standard USB type A to B
lead to connect to your computer. Footswitch Connector
This is supplied with the Xone:4D. 14 This 1/4” TRS socket is used to connect a
footswitch or expression pedal as an
additional MIDI controller. Most standard
foot pedals should be satisfactory, for
example, the Roland EV-5.

Allen & Heath 33 XONE:4D User Guide


MIXER SECTION — BPM COUNTER
BPM Display
1
Displays the tempo of an analysed piece of music, rounded
up to the nearest whole number.
On power-up, and when the detector is reset, the display
1 will show a line of three dashes.
When an audio source is routed to the auto beat detector, a
dot in the bottom right hand corner will flash to indicate that
BPM analysis is taking place.
2 The display can also show the BPM to the nearest decimal
place by pressing and holding the TAP button. This will shift
3 all digits one place to the left.
If the internal MIDI clock has been disabled ‘OFF’ will be
continuously displayed.

MIDI Start / Stop Button


2 Sends MIDI start/stop messages to any connected sequencer.
Note that these messages are sent on release of the switch.
Pressing and holding this switch will reset the auto BPM
detector but won’t change the current status of the Stop/Start
control.
Pressing and holding this switch for approximately 5sec will
turn off the Xone:4D’s internal MIDI clock and the BPM display
will change to OFF. Pressing and holding the STOP/START
button again until the three dashes are displayed will reset the
BPM and turn the MIDI clock back ON
The LED ring associated with this control will glow RED when
a Start message is sent, and will also turn ON/OFF when a
MIDI STOP/START/PAUSE command is received from an
external MIDI device connected to the MIDI IN socket of the
Xone:4D

MIDI Clock Push / Pull Switch


3
When attempting to get a sequencer, such as Ableton Live 5,
to play in time with another music source, for example a CD
or turntable which has been analysed by the auto beat
detector, it is not always possible to get it to start exactly at
the beginning of a bar. This control lets the DJ speed up or
slow down the MIDI clock, rather like pushing or pulling a
turntable platter when beat matching.
Pulling the lever to the left will slow the clock and the BPM
reading will drop, pushing the lever to the right will speed up
the clock and the BPM reading will rise.
When released, the MIDI clock will revert to the originally
displayed BPM.
You can manually set the BPM to any speed between 70 and
400 by pulling or pushing the lever; when the desired speed is
indicated on the display, press the TAP button to lock the
MIDI clock to this speed. To fine tune the BPM to an exact
figure, press and hold the TAP button and when the decimal is
displayed, the speed can be altered by 0.1BPM again by using
the Push/Pull lever.

Allen & Heath 34 XONE:4D User Guide


MIXER SECTION — BPM COUNTER

BPM Tap Tempo Button


4 This control is used to tap in a beat manually
at any speed between 70 and 400 BPM. The
taps are averaged, so the greater number of
taps the more accurate the result.
The tap button can also be used as a guide
for the auto beat detector on complex
rhythms by helping the analyser lock onto
the correct pattern, for instance drum ‘n
bass tracks can occasionally be displayed at
half the actual BPM. By tapping in the
approximate beat the analyser will re-sync to
the correct tempo.
4 Pressing and holding the tap tempo button
shifts the BPM display one place to the left
so that the decimal can be shown.
5 When the BPM is being speeded up or down
using the push/pull lever, pressing the tap
button will store the currently displayed
tempo.
The light ring associated with this control
will flash in time with the current BPM
speed, usually along with the kick drum,
though occasionally the detector will
synchronize to other rhythmic elements of a
track such as a hi-hat line. This will not
affect its accuracy. Tapping a few beats in
manually will force the detector to re-sync
to the beat.

Auto BPM Audio Source Switch


5 This selects the audio source for the auto
beat detection circuit.
If MIX is selected, all music played through
the main outputs of the Xone:4D will be
analysed. This can be used to ensure that a
mix compilation or DJ set is held at a strict
tempo.
Select FX2 if you are using auto BPM
detection to synchronize a remote
sequencer to an audio source played through
the Xone:4D, and are returning the audio
output from the sequencer back into the
mix. Ensure that all FX2 level pots are
turned fully off except on the channel playing
the track that you wish to synchronise to. If
more than one channel at a time is routed to
the FX2 mix buss it may confuse the BPM
detector and result in an incorrect reading.
Switch to the OFF position if you want to
enter the BPM manually and do not want any
audio source to influence the tempo.

Allen & Heath 35 XONE:4D User Guide


MIXER SECTION — LFO

LFO Tap Tempo button


6 Tapping this button will set the speed of the
LFO (low frequency oscillator) within the
range of 0.25Hz - 3.33Hz (15 - 200 BPM)
The LFO speed can be displayed on the BPM
meter by pressing and holding this button
until dots appear after all of the digits—the
BPM display now shows the tempo of the
LFO. This will also let you set the LFO
speed manually using the push/pull lever to
raise or lower the speed from its current
setting.
One very useful feature is the ability to copy
the current BPM speed to the LFO. To do
this, press and hold the LFO tap tempo
button until the LFO speed is displayed on
the BPM screen, then press the BPM tap
button. The LFO speed will now be exactly
the same as the BPM.
Note: The phase of the LFO will be set the
moment the BPM tap button is pressed
(whilst holding down the LFO tap button).
This will let you synchronise the LFO to a
particular sound on any track being fed to
the auto beat detector. For example,
pressing the BPM tap button on the beat will
sync the LFO to the kick drum.
6 The light ring associated with this control
will flash in time with the current LFO speed.

LFO Depth control


7 7 This control sets the level at which the filters
will be modulated by the LFO. This works
8 together with the filter frequency control.
The maximum LFO filter modulation will
occur if the LFO Depth control is fully
clockwise with the filter frequency control
fully anti-clockwise.

LFO Assign switch


8 Selects which filter will be modulated by the
LFO. In its left position Filter 1 only is
modulated, in the right hand position Filter 2
only is modulated. In the centre position
both Filter 1 and Filter 2 will be modulated
by equal amounts.

Allen & Heath 36 XONE:4D User Guide


MIXER SECTION — THE LFO EDITOR

The LFO Editor allows real-time manipulation of the LFO waveform using
the linear faders on the left and right MIDI pods of the Xone:4D. The LFO
tempo can be set using the LFO Tap Tempo button or by synchronising the
LFO tempo to the displayed BPM (see page 36).

Enter LFO Edit Mode

To enter LFO Edit Mode, hold down the LFO Tap Tempo button until the
LFO speed is displayed on the BPM screen and then press the MIDI Start/
Stop button. The BPM screen will now display “L.F.O.” to indicate that the
surface is in LFO Edit Mode and the eight MIDI faders can be used to ‘draw’
the LFO waveform. All other MIDI controls will send their respective MIDI
messages while the surface is in LFO Edit Mode.

Exit LFO Edit Mode

To exit LFO Edit Mode, press the MIDI start/stop button and the BPM dis-
play will show the current tapped or analysed BPM.

Resetting the LFO Waveform

To reset the LFO to its default (triangular) waveform, hold down the LFO
Tap Tempo button until the LFO speed is displayed in the BPM window,
then hold down the Start/Stop button until R.S.T. appears in the BPM win-
dow.

Allen & Heath 37 XONE:4D User Guide


MIDI CONTROL SECTION
Rotary Encoders
1 1 Turning an encoder produces MIDI CC
(continuous controller) messages with a
unique controller number in two’s
complement binary encoding. Refer to the
MIDI mapping diagram for the differences
between Map 1 and 2 for these controls.
2
These encoders feature a built in
momentary push switch. Pressing down on
the encoder knob activates the switch and
sends a “note on” MIDI message, releasing
the switch sends a corresponding “note off”
message.
3
Rotary Potentiometers
2 These controls are standard
potentiometers with end stops and a centre
detent for easy setting. Turning a pot from
left to right will send MIDI messages with a
unique CC number and a control value
from 0 (fully left) to 127 (fully right).

4 3
Linear Faders
Moving a linear fader will send a MIDI
message with a unique CC number and a
control value from 0 (bottom) to 127 (top).
5
Push Buttons
4 There are 24 momentary action switches
coded with letters A through to X for easy
identification. Pressing a switch will send a
6 unique “note on” MIDI message. Releasing
the switch sends a corresponding “note off”
message.

Rotary Encoder
5 A rotary encoder with switch, as above.
7 Jog Wheel
6 The jog wheel features an optical encoder,
which produces CC messages in a similar
way to the other encoders. Switches are
located at the top, bottom, left and right of
the wheel. Pushing down on the face of the
wheel sends note on / note off messages.

Illuminated Push Buttons


7 Momentary action switches with red light
ring indicators. Pressing a switch will send
a “note on” MIDI message and turn on the
indicator. Pressing the switch again will
send another “note on” message and switch
off the indicator.
Allen & Heath 38 XONE:4D User Guide
MIDI CONTROL SECTION

MIDI Messages
The diagram below shows which controls are associated with MIDI CC (continuous controller)
and note on/off messages. These controls send the MIDI messages shown when operated. The
switch light ring indicators (except for start/stop and tap tempo) may be turned on or off by
incoming MIDI messages.
MIDI Channel Number and Map
To change the MIDI map and channel number, please refer to the MIDI CHANNEL, MAP AND
LIGHT PIPE SETUP sections on pages 11 and 12.

MIDI Shift Mode


All of the controls on the Xone:4D (with the exception of the crossfader, can be mapped a
second time using the MIDI shift mode. To enter MIDI SHIFT MODE, hold down the encoder
above the jog wheel on the left MIDI pod for approximately half a second. The BPM display will
show SFT when the console is in shift mode. A fader pick up algorithm has been written into
the software to ensure seamless integration between the two MIDI layers. In shift mode, the
channel MIDI messages are sent on the default MIDI channel minus 1—i.e. if you are transmitting
on MIDI channel 16 then shift mode will transmit on channel 15. The only exception is if the
default channel is channel 1 then the shift mode will transmit on channel 2.
FOOTSWITCH CC4 - DOWN = 127, UP = 0
JOYSTICK X = CC3 - LEFT = 127, RIGHT = 0 Y = CC1 - UP = 127, DOWN = 0 FINGER BUTTON = C#-2 THUMB BUTTON = D-2

F5 F#5 G5 G#5 A5 A#5 B6 C6


MAP 1 MAP 1 C#6 D6 D#6 E6 F6 F#6 G6 G#6
E0 D-1 E-1 D0
MAP 2 MAP 2 C3 A#1 C2 A#2

CC32 CC33 CC34 CC35 CC40 CC41 CC42 CC43

CC9 CC11 CC13 CC15 CC21 CC23 CC25 CC27

CC8 CC10 CC12 CC14 CC20 CC22 CC24 CC26

CC19 CC18 CC17 CC16 CC31 CC30 CC29 CC28

F0 D#-1 F-1 D#0 C#3 B1 C#2 B2


A B C D M N O P
C1 A-1 F#-1 G#0 G#3 F2 D2 E3
E F G H Q R S T
C4 C#4 D4 D#4
C#1 A#-1 G-1 A0 A3 F#2 D#2 F3
I J K L U V W X

C0 G#2
A#2 F#1

C5 D#5
CC36 CC44
CC37 CC45

B4 D5
A-2 G1
B-2 F1
A#4 C#5

CC6 CC7

C#-1 A1
CC5
G#4 A4

D1 B-1 G#-1 A#0 A#3 G2 E2 F#3

Allen & Heath 39 XONE:4D User Guide


MIDI IMPLEMENTATION CHART
Function Transmitted Received Remarks

Basis Channel
Default 16 16 Selectable with
Option 1-16 1-16 Configuration Utility
Mode
Default X X
Messages X X
Altered X X
Note Number O O Refer to Diagram. MIDI
note messages received
as well as transmitted
for all push buttons with
light rings, except MIDI
Start/Stop and BPM/LFO
Tap Tempo buttons.

Velocity
Note ON X X
Note OFF X X
After touch
Keys X X
Channel X X
Pitch Bend X X
Control Change

1 O X Joystick Y
3 O X Joystick X
4 O X Footswitch

5 O X Crossfader
6 O X Filter 1 Freq
7 O X Filter 2 Freq

8-45 O X Dedicated Controls

Program Change X X
System Exclusive X X
System Common
Song Position X X
Song Select X X
Tune Request X X

System Real Time


Clock O X
Commands O X
Aux Messages
Local On/Off X X
All Notes Off X X
Active Sensing X X
System Reset X X

Allen & Heath 40 XONE:4D User Guide


MIDI NOTE CHART
Note No. Note No. Note No. Note No.
(Hex) (Decimal) Note Name (Hex) (Decimal) Note Name

00 0 C-2 36 54 F#2
01 1 C#-2 37 55 G2
02 2 D-2 38 56 G#2
03 3 D#-2 39 57 A2
04 4 E-2 3A 58 A#2
05 5 F-2 3B 59 B2
06 6 F#-2 3C 60 C3
07 7 G-2 3D 61 C#3
08 8 G#-2 3E 62 D3
09 9 A-2 3F 63 D#3
0A 10 A#-2 40 64 E3
0B 11 B-2 41 65 F3
0C 12 C-1 42 66 F#3
0D 13 C#-1 43 67 G3
0E 14 D-1 44 68 G#3
0F 15 D#-1 45 69 A3
10 16 E-1 46 70 A#3
11 17 F-1 47 71 B3
12 18 F#-1 48 72 C4
13 19 G-1 49 73 C#4
14 20 G#-1 4A 74 D4
15 21 A1 4B 75 D#4
16 22 A#1 4C 76 E4
17 23 B1 4D 77 F4
18 24 C0 4E 78 F#4
19 25 C#0 4F 79 G4
1A 26 D0 50 80 G#4
1B 27 D#0 51 81 A4
1C 28 E0 52 82 A#4
1D 29 F0 53 83 B4
1E 30 F#0 54 84 C5
1F 31 G0 55 85 C#5
20 32 G#0 56 86 D5
21 33 A0 57 87 D#5
22 34 A#0 58 88 E5
23 35 B0 59 89 F5
24 36 C1 5A 90 F#5
25 37 C#1 5B 91 G5
26 38 D1 5C 92 G#5
27 39 D#1 5D 93 A5
28 40 E1 5E 94 A#5
29 41 F1 5F 95 B5
2A 42 F#1 60 96 C6
2B 43 G1 61 97 C#6
2C 44 G#1 62 98 D6
2D 45 A1 63 99 D#6
2E 46 A#1 64 100 E6
2F 47 B1 65 101 F6
30 48 C2 66 102 F#6
31 49 C#2 67 103 G6
32 50 D2 68 104 G#6
33 51 D#2 69 105 A6
34 52 E2 6A 106 A#6
35 53 F2 6B 107 B6

Allen & Heath 41 XONE:4D User Guide


FILTER REFERENCE

The VCF Filters


A voltage controlled filter is an audio filter where
the cut-off frequency is altered by a DC control
voltage rather than a variable resistor. This
produces a much wider operating range and more
control over the filter response to create
unlimited combinations of tonal effect.
Two stereo VCFs are provided, one either side of
the crossfader. Each can be switched in or out
and has its own frequency sweep control. A Low
Frequency Oscillator (LFO) provides filter
modulation.

LFO modulation HI-PASS FILTER


+20
The LFO automatically sweeps the cut-off
frequency up and down according to the beat
+15

entered by tapping the tap tempo button or +10

LO HI
locking to the analysed BPM. The LFO can be +5

applied to Filter 1, Filter 2, or both filters together 0dB

for additional cyclic filter modulation effects. -5

-10

-15

-20
Filter Type Select 20 100 1kHz 10k 20k

The filters are ‘state variable’. This means that BAND-PASS FILTER
they provide three simultaneous filter types, high- +20

pass, band-pass and low-pass. Three large +15

illuminated switches select which type is active. +10


You can press any combination together to create +5
LO HI
different response types such as ‘notch’ and an
interesting ‘all-pass’ effect. The switches are ‘soft 0dB

switched’ for live performance, meaning that the -5

audio signal is ramped between filter states to -10

prevent audible clicks. -15

Note that the last selected type is lost when -20


20 100 1kHz 10k 20k
power is removed from the console. The LPF is
always selected when power is applied. LO-PASS FILTER
+20
The graphs below show the effect on the audio
frequency response for the three filter types. The +15

range of sweep from low to high frequency is +10

LO HI
shown together with the effect of adjusting +5

RESONANCE (one frequency with several 0dB


resonance settings shown). -5

The vertical scale shows the amount of cut or -10

boost around the normal 0dB operating level. The -15


horizontal scale shows the change in frequency -20
from low (bass) to high (treble). 20 100 1kHz 10k 20k

Allen & Heath 42 XONE:4D User Guide


OPERATING LEVELS

It is most important that the system level settings are correctly set. It is well known
that many DJs push the level to maximum with meters peaking hard in the belief that
they are getting the best from the system. THIS IS NOT THE CASE ! The best
can only be achieved if the system levels are set within the normal operating range
and not allowed to peak. Peaking simply results in signal distortion, not more vol-
ume. It is the specification of the amplifier / speaker system that sets the maximum
volume that can be achieved, not the console. The human ear too can fool the op-
erator into believing that more volume is needed. Be careful as this is in fact a warn-
ing that hearing damage will result if high listening levels are maintained. Remember
that it is the QUALITY of the sound that pleases the ear, not the VOLUME.

This diagram illustrates the operating range of


the audio signal.
NORMAL OPERATING RANGE. For
normal music the signal should range between
–6 and +6 on the meters with average around
0dB. This allows enough HEADROOM for
unexpected peaks before the signal hits its
maximum CLIPPING voltage and distorts.
It also achieves the best SIGNAL-TO-
NOISE-RATIO by keeping the signal well
above the residual NOISE FLOOR (system
hiss).
The DYNAMIC RANGE is the maximum
signal swing available between the residual
noise floor and clipping.

An important note …
82! The human ear is a remarkable organ with the ability to com-
press or ‘shut down’ when sound levels become too high. Do
not interpret this natural response as a reason to turn the sys-
tem volume up further ! As the session wears on ear fatigue
may set in, and the speaker cones may become hot so reducing
the effectiveness of the system and listeners to gain any benefit
from increased volume.

Allen & Heath 43 XONE:4D User Guide


EARTHING

The connection to earth (ground) in an audio system is important for


two reasons:
SAFETY - To protect the operator from high voltage electric shock,
and
AUDIO PERFORMANCE - To minimise the effect of earth (ground)
loops which result in audible hum and buzz, and to shield the audio
signals from interference.

For safety it is important that all equipment earths are connected to


mains earth so that exposed metal parts are prevented from carrying
high voltage which can injure or even kill the operator. It is
recommended that a qualified system engineer check the continuity of
the safety earth from all points in the system including microphone
bodies, turntable chassis, equipment cases, and so on.
The same earth is also used to shield audio cables from external
interference such as the hum fields associated with power transformers,
lighting dimmer buzz, and computer radiation. Problems arise when the
signal sees more than one path to mains earth. An ‘earth loop’ (ground
loop) results causing current to flow between the different earth paths.
This condition is usually detected as a mains frequency audible hum or
buzz.
To ensure safe and trouble-free operation we recommend the following:
Have your mains system checked by a qualified electrician. If
the supply earthing is solid to start with you are less likely to experience
problems.
Do not remove the earth connection from the console mains
plug. The console chassis is connected to mains earth through the
power cable to ensure your safety. Audio 0V is connected to the
console chassis internally. If problems are encountered with earth loops
operate the audio ‘ground lift’ switches on connected equipment
accordingly, or disconnect the cable screens at one end, usually at the
destination.
Make sure that turntables are correctly earthed. A chassis earth
terminal is provided on the console rear panel to connect to turntable
earth straps.
Use low impedance sources such as microphones and line level
equipment rated at 200 ohms or less to reduce susceptibility to
interference. The console outputs are designed to operate at very low
impedance to minimise interference problems.
Use balanced connections for microphones and mix output as
these provide further immunity by cancelling out interference that may
be picked up on long cable runs. To connect an unbalanced source to a
balanced console input, link the cold input (XLR pin 3 or jack ring) to 0V
earth (XLR pin 1 or jack sleeve) at the console. To connect a balanced
XLR output to unbalanced equipment, link the cold output to 0V earth
at the console.
Use good quality cables and connectors and check for correct
wiring and reliable solder joints. Allow sufficient cable loop to prevent
damage through stretching.
If you are not sure ... Contact your service agent or local Allen &
Heath dealer for advice.

Allen & Heath 44 XONE:4D User Guide


CABLES AND CONNECTIONS
RCA phono jacks
adapter
CABLE A
UNBALANCED

CABLE B UNBALANCED
UNBALANCED

CABLE C BALANCED
BALANCED

Sleeve=ground Sleeve=ground
Ring=cold (-) Ring=cold (-)
Tip=hot (+) Tip=hot (+)

2=hot (+)1=ground BALANCED CABLE D BALANCED


1=ground 2=hot (+)

XLR MALE XLR FEMALE 3=cold (-)


3=cold (-)

CABLE E BALANCED
1=ground 2=hot (+)
BALANCED

Sleeve=ground XLR FEMALE 3=cold (-)


Ring=cold (-)
Tip=hot (+)

2=hot (+) 1=ground BALANCED CABLE F BALANCED

XLR MALE Sleeve=ground


3=cold (-) Ring=cold (-)
Tip=hot (+)

CABLE G UNBALANCED
UNBALANCED

XLR FEMALE

UNBALANCED CABLE H UNBALANCED

XLR MALE

CABLE I SPDIF OPTICAL - TOSLINK

CABLE J MIDI - 5-pin DIN

CABLE K SPDIF RCA - 75 ohm coax

CABLE L
USB TYPE A MAX 2M USB TYPE B

Allen & Heath 45 XONE:4D User Guide


USER OPTIONS

Internal Link Options

The Xone:4D offers several internal option settings:

• FX1 and FX2 Return Routing— The FX1 and FX2 Returns are set, by
default, to route to the main LR Mix. Link options allow the return to be
routed through either Filter 1 or Filter 2.
• Disabling / Enabling RIAA Preamps—All channels are fitted with
RIAA preamplifiers. Link options allow the RIAA preamplifier stage to be
enabled or disabled. When disabled, the Phono input becomes a Line in-
put.
• FX2 Pre / Post Fade Assignment—The FX2 channel send is set, by
default, to pre-fader. Link options allow the channel FX2 send to become
post-fader.

CAUTION : Refer the above link options to an Allen and Heath approved
service centre only. To reduce the risk of electric shock do not perform any
servicing other than that described in the operating instructions unless you are
qualified to do so.

Replacing the Crossfader

Replacement crossfader Assembly: Allen & Heath Part No. 003-579. Please
contact your Allen and Heath approved service centre to undertake crossfader
replacement.

Allen & Heath 46 XONE:4D User Guide


SPECIFICATIONS
Operating levels
Main outputs +4dBu XLR
Monitor 0dBu RCA
FX sends -2dBu RCA
Maximum output level +26dBu
Mic Sensitivity -45 to -15dBu
RIAA input sensitivity 7-100mV 47K/330pF
Frequency response Line in to Mix out 20 Hz to 30KHz +0/-2dB
Distortion at 1kHz Line in at +0Vu out <0.02%
Main Mix noise 22Hz— 22KHz unweighted <-80dBu (84dB S/N)
Residual Mix noise22Hz— 22KHz unweighted <-97dBu
Equalization 3-band +6dB/off (kill), 120Hz, 1.2kHz, 10kHz
Fader Shutoff <-90dB

Dimensions and Weights


The console is fitted with rubber feet for desktop operation. A screw on rack ear kit is
included for 19” rack or plinth mounting.
Width Height Depth Weight
Desktop 432 mm (17”) 88 mm (3.5”) 358 mm (14”) 5kg (11 lbs)
Rack ears fitted 483 mm (19”) 88 mm (3.5”) 358 mm (14”)
Packed 575 mm (22.6”) 195 mm (7.7”) 490 mm (15.7”) 6 kg (13.2 lbs)

Rack ears allow permanent fixing in a plinth or rack system. They can be fitted two ways; either
with the flange flush with the top panel or flush with the underside of the chassis. The rack ears
are fixed in place using the 6x M4 screws provided. Ensure that air vents are not obstructed.

465 rack ear fixings


41.3
101.6
358

76.2

M6
101.6
37.3

88 432

483 with rack ears fitted

Allen & Heath 47 XONE:4D User Guide


PRODUCT REGISTRATION

Registering your product

Please go to www.allen-heath.com/register.asp and register your product’s serial number and your details.
By registering with us and becoming an official Registered User, you will ensure that any warranty claim
you might make is actioned quickly and with the minimum delay.

Alternatively, you may either copy or cut off this section of the page, fill in the details, and return it by
mail to:
Allen & Heath Ltd, Kernick Industrial Estate, Penryn, Cornwall TR10 9LU, UK

Allen & Heath 48 XONE:4D User Guide

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