Soundcraft Compact Stagebox Professional Audio Mixers

Product Information

The Soundcraft Compact Stagebox is a user-friendly and versatile audio device designed for professional sound applications. It is compliant with safety standards such as EMC directive 2004/108/EC and LVD 2006/95/EC, as well as IEC 60065:2001 (Seventh Edition) +A1:2005, EN60065:2002 +AMD1:2006 + A11:2008, UL60065-07, CAN/CSA C22.2 No60065.03 + AMD01:2006, and EMC standards EN55103-1:2009 EN55103-2:2009.
The device is manufactured by Harman International Industries Ltd. and is a trading division of Soundcraft. It offers various features, including available modules and expansion slots.

Available Modules
The Compact Stagebox supports a range of modules that can be installed to enhance its functionality. These modules provide additional input and output options, allowing for greater flexibility in audio setups.

Expansion Slots
The stage box is equipped with expansion slots that enable the user to add compatible expansion cards. These cards provide extra connectivity options or specialized features, expanding the capabilities of the device even further.

Product Usage Instructions

1. Before using the Soundcraft Compact Stagebox for the first time, it is important to read the user manual carefully.
2. Ensure that the device is connected to a power outlet that is on a separate circuit from any connected receiver equipment to prevent interference.
3. If experiencing any reception issues, try reorienting or relocating the receiving antenna, or increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.
4. In case of any modifications or changes to the device, it is crucial to obtain explicit approval from Harman. Unauthorized modifications can invalidate the device’s authorization and may be prohibited by regulations.
5. If assistance is required, consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician.
6. For further details or support, contact Harman International Industries Ltd. using the provided contact information.

Please note that the information provided in this manual is subject to change without notice, and Soundcraft shall not be liable for any loss or damage arising from the use of information or any error contained in the manual. Reproduction, storage, transmission, or any form of copying the manual without express written permission from Soundcraft is strictly prohibited.
For more information about the Soundcraft Compact Stagebox, visit the official website at http://www.soundcraft.com.

IMPORTANT
Please read this manual carefully before using your unit for the first time.

This equipment complies with the EMC directive 2004/108/EC and LVD 2006/95/EC

This product is approved to safety standards
IEC 60065:2001 (Seventh Edition) +A1:2005
EN60065:2002 +AMD1:2006 + A11:2008
UL60065-07
CAN/CSA C22.2 No60065.03 + AMD01:2006
And EMC standards
EN55103-1:2009
EN55103-2:2009

Warning : Any modification or changes made to this device, unless explicitly approved by Harman, will invalidate the authorization of this device. Operation of an unauthorized device is prohibited under Section 302 of the Communications act of 1934, as amended, and Subpart 1 of Part 2 of Chapter 47 of the Code of Federal Regulations.

NOTE : This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna
• Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver
• Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help

For further details contact
Harman International Industries Ltd, Cranborne House, Cranborne Road, Potters Bar, Hertfordshire EN6 3JN, UK Telephone +44(0) 1707 665000 Fax +44 (0)1707 660742 email: soundcraft@harman.com

© Harman International Industries Ltd. 2011
All rights reserved
Parts of the design of this product may be protected by worldwide patents.
Part No. BD10.947004 Rev2 May 12
E&OE May 2012
Soundcraft is a trading division of Harman International Industries Ltd. Information in this manual is subject to change without notice and does not represent a commitment on the part of the vendor. Soundcraft shall not be liable for any loss or damage whatsoever arising from the use of information or any error contained in this manual.
No part of this manual may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, electrical, mechanical, optical, chemical, including photo-copying and recording, for any purpose without the express written permission of Soundcraft.

INTRODUCTION

SAFETY NOTICES
For your own safety and to avoid invalidation of the warranty please read this section carefully.

SAFETY SYMBOL GUIDE

For your own safety and to avoid invalidation of the warranty all text marked with these symbols should be read carefully.

• WARNINGS
  The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol is intended to alert the user to the presence of un-insulated “dangerous voltage” within the product’s enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.

• CAUTIONS
  The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the appliance.

• NOTES
  Contains important information and useful tips on the operation of your equipment.

• HEADPHONES SAFETY WARNING
  Contains important information and useful tips on headphone outputs and monitoring levels.

• ESD WARNING
  The crossed-out hand symbol is intended to alert the user to devices sensitive to electrostatic discharge. Please refer to the instructions.

IMPORTANT SAFETY WARNINGS

THIS UNIT MUST BE EARTHED!
Under no circumstances should the mains earth be disconnected from the mains lead.

The wires in the mains lead are colored in accordance with the following code:

• Earth: Green and Yellow (Green/Yellow – US)
• Neutral: Blue (White – US)
• Live: Brown (Black – US)

As the colors of the wires in the mains lead may not correspond with the colored markings identifying the terminals in your plug, proceed as follows:

• The wire which is colored Green and Yellow must be connected to the terminal in the plug which is marked with the letter E or by the earth symbol.
• The wire which is colored Blue must be connected to the terminal in the plug which is marked with the letter N.
• The wire which is colored Brown must be connected to the terminal in the plug which is marked with the letter L.

Ensure that these color codings are followed carefully in the event of the plug being changed.

The internal power supply unit contains no user-serviceable parts. Refer all servicing to a qualified service engineer, through the appropriate Soundcraft dealer.

Electrostatic Discharge (ESD)

Many semiconductor components are sensitive to electrostatic discharge (ESD). The lifespan of assemblies containing such components can be drastically reduced by improper handling during maintenance and repair. Please observe the following rules when handling ESD-sensitive components:

• ESD-sensitive components should only be stored and transported in the packing material specifically provided for this purpose.
• When performing a repair by replacing complete assemblies, the removed assembly must be sent back to the supplier in the same packing material in which the replacement assembly was shipped. If this should not be the case, any claim for a possible refund will be null and void.
• Unpacked ESD-sensitive components should only be handled in ESD-protected areas (EPA, e.g. area for field service, repair, or service bench) and only be touched by persons wearing a wristlet connected to the ground potential of the repair or service bench by a series resistor. The equipment to be repaired or serviced as well as all tools and electrically semi-conducting work, storage, and floor mats should also be connected to this ground potential.
• The terminals of ESD-sensitive components must not come in uncontrolled contact with electro-statically chargeable or metallic surfaces (voltage puncture, discharge shock hazard).
• To prevent the components from undefined transient stress and possible damage due to inadmissible voltages or compensation currents, electrical connections should only be established or separated when the equipment is switched off and after any capacitor charges have decayed.

WARNINGS

• Read these instructions.
• Keep these instructions.
• Heed all warnings.
• Follow all instructions.
• Clean the apparatus only with a dry cloth.
• Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat resistors, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
• Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Do not use this apparatus near water.
• Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades one wider than the other. A grounding-type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. When the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for the replacement of the obsolete outlet.
• Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
• Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
• Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
  • Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way such as the power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally or has been dropped.
  • Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket or table specified by the manufacturer, or sold with the apparatus. When the cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury from tip-over.
• No naked flame sources, such as lighted candles or cigarettes, etc., should be placed on the apparatus.
• Warning: To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this apparatus to rain or moisture. Do not expose the apparatus to dripping or splashing and do not place objects filled with liquids, such as vases, on the apparatus.
• This unit contains no user-serviceable parts. Refer all servicing to a qualified service engineer, through the appropriate Soundcraft dealer.
• Ventilation should not be impeded by covering the ventilation openings with items such as newspapers, tablecloths, curtains, etc.
• The disconnect device is the mains plug; it must remain accessible so as to be readily operable in use.
• It is recommended that all maintenance and service on the product should be carried out by Soundcraft or its authorized agents. Soundcraft cannot accept any liability whatsoever for any loss or damage caused by service, maintenance or repair by unauthorized personnel.

WORKING SAFELY WITH SOUND
Although your new unit will not make any noise until you feed it signals, it has the capability to produce sounds which when monitored through a PA system or headphones can damage hearing over time.
The table below is taken from the Occupational Safety & Health Administration directive on Occupational noise exposure (1926.52):

PERMISSIBLE NOISE EXPOSURE

Conforming to this directive will minimize the risk of hearing damage caused by long listening periods. A simple rule to follow is the longer you listen the lower the average volume should be. Please take care when working with your audio – if you are manipulating controls that you don’t understand (which we all do when we are learning), make sure your monitors are turned down. Remember that your ears are the most important tool of your trade, look after them, and they will look after you. Most importantly – don’t be afraid to experiment to find out how each parameter affects the sound – this will extend your creativity and help you to get the best results.
Recommended headphone impedance is 50-600 ohms.

WARRANTY

1. Soundcraft is a trading division of Harman International Industries Ltd.
   End User means the person who first puts the equipment into regular operation.
   Dealer means the person other than Soundcraft (if any) from whom the End User purchased the Equipment, provided such a person is authorized for this purpose by Soundcraft or its accredited Distributor.
   Equipment means the equipment supplied with this manual.

2. If within the period of twelve months from the date of delivery of the Equipment to the End User it shall prove defective by reason only of faulty materials and/or workmanship to such an extent that the effectiveness and/or usability thereof is materially affected the Equipment or the defective component should be returned to the Dealer or to Soundcraft and subject to the following conditions the Dealer or Soundcraft will repair or replace the defective components. Any components replaced will become the property of Soundcraft.

3. Any Equipment or component returned will be at the risk of the End User whilst in transit (both to and from the Dealer or Soundcraft) and postage must be prepaid.

4. This warranty shall only be available if:
   a) The equipment has been properly installed in accordance with instructions contained in Soundcraft’s manual; and
   b) The end User has notified Soundcraft or the Dealer within 14 days of the defect appearing; and
   c) no persons other than authorized representatives of Soundcraft or the Dealer have effected any replacement of parts maintenance adjustments or repairs to the Equipment; and
   d) the End User has used the Equipment only for such purposes as Soundcraft recommends, with only such operating supplies as meet Soundcraft’s specifications and otherwise in all respects in accordance with Soundcraft’s recommendations.

5. Defects arising as a result of the following are not covered by this Warranty: faulty or negligent handling, chemical or electro-chemical or electrical influences, accidental damage, Acts of God, neglect, deficiency in electrical power, air-conditioning or humidity control.

6. The benefit of this Warranty may not be assigned by the End User.

7. End Users who are consumers should note their rights under this Warranty are in addition to and do not affect any other rights to which they may be entitled against the seller of the Equipment.

FEATURES

The Compact Stagebox is ideal for existing owners of Vi Series consoles as a cost-effective method of expanding the input capability by expanding to up to 96 mic/line analog inputs, or as a partner for the Vi1 and Si range of consoles providing cost-effective remote I/O capability in conjunction with the optional MADI interface cards available for those consoles. The Soundcraft Compact Stagebox offers a high density of I/O connections in only 4U of rack space. The modular unit is fully configurable but is offered with a standard configuration of 32 mic/line inputs, 8 line outputs, 4 x 2 channels of AES/EBU outputs, and 2 expansion slots for standard Studer D21m I/O cards. The D21m is the I/O architecture for Studer as well as Soundcraft digital mixing systems and allows connection to the most popular digital formats, including CobraNet®, Aviom A-Net®16, EtherSound®, ADAT, and RockNet®. A MADI recording interface can also be fitted to the expansion slots.
It is possible to equip the Compact Stagebox with an additional 16 mic/line input XLR module instead of the output module, providing 48 inputs. In this case, analog or AES outputs could still be obtained on D-Type connectors via D21m cards fitted to the expansion slots. As well as the flexibility of the D21m option card interface, the Compact Stagebox uses the same I/O modules as found in the Soundcraft Vi1 console. As a result, it is possible to move or share modules between the console and stagebox, should a different configuration of I/O be required on either the Vi1 or the stagebox. For example, the 8-line out/AES output card from the stage box could be fitted to the Vi1 console in place of a 16-channel line output card. Alternatively, the mic input modules can be replaced by output modules if large numbers of outputs are required. When fitting cards to the expansion slots it should be noted that the maximum input and output capacity of the Compact Stagebox is limited by the MADI console link to 64 in/64 out. The Compact Stagebox is connected to the host console using either Cat-5 or optical-fiber MADI, the same way as the larger 64 mic/line Vi6 Stagebox is hooked up, and shares the same redundant MADI cable capability. The unit comes complete with twin redundant power supplies, thermostatically-controlled fan cooling, and full LED status monitoring. An eight-channel GPIO interface is provided as well.

Available Modules

• 16 x mic/line inputs (A947.043000SP)
• 16 x line outputs (A947.043500SP)
• 8 x line outputs + 4 x 2-ch AES/EBU outputs (A947.043700SP)

Expansion Slots
These may be used for one* or two of the following standard Studer D21m I/O cards:

• 8-channel line inputs (RS2425SP)
• 8-channel line outputs (RS2424SP)
• • 8 x 2-channel AES inputs and outputs (RS2422SP)
• 4-channel mic/line inputs with 4 x direct outputs (RS2423SP)
• 64-channel MADI optical/multimode (RS2426SP) or Cat-5 (RS2409SP)
• 16-channel ADAT inputs and outputs (RS2360SP)
• 16-channel TDIF inputs and outputs (RS2564SP)
• 16-channel Aviom A-Net® outputs (RS2497SP)
•  32-channel CobraNet® inputs and outputs (RS2485SP)
•  *# 64-channel EtherSound® inputs and outputs
• *# 64-channel RockNet® inputs and outputs
• 16-channel SDI deembedder (RS2552SP)
• 16-channel Dolby® E decoder (RS2553SP)

Available from 3rd party manufacturers or distributors only – please contact

www.digigram.com for EtherSound® options, www.riedel.net for RockNet® options.

Front View

Rear View

DETAILS

The Compact Stagebox requires the addition of a standard D21m MADI card to the Vi or Si option card slot. It contains 3 slots for audio I/O modules, 2 slots for optional D21m I/O modules, and the D21m MADI HD card providing the Compact Stagebox-to-console connection. Slots are labeled from top to bottom A/C/E for I/O modules and K/L for the optional D21m card slots. These labeling references are used by the patching system when the user wishes to patch the connectors to input channels or output buses.

Primary Power Supply
The primary power supply connectors are located on the rear panel. Both primary power supplies connect to the IEC inlets via their power switches and provide a full-range AC inlet, converting 100 to 240 V AC to 24 V DC. The Compact Stagebox is normally fitted with two power supplies, providing redundancy for those requiring it.

Module Function Overview
Normally two mic/line input and one line/AES output modules are fitted, giving 32 inputs and 16 outputs. However, more input or output modules, up to a maximum of 3 modules giving 48 inputs or outputs, can be fitted.

Input Modules
Input modules handle 16 x mic/line amp, phantom power, and A-to-D converter. An LED per input indicates whether the phantom power is activated.

Output Modules
There are two different output module types available, both handling 16 outputs in total. In the standard configuration, an output module with 8 x D-to-A converters and electronically balanced line outputs as well as 8 AES/EBU output channels is fitted. An all-analog line output module with 16 electronically balanced line outputs is optionally available. The modules have a set of relays that will mute the outputs if the power fails.

LED Status Indicators
Status indicator LEDs are available for power rails, IO modules, fan and temperature alarms, and a RECON-FIG button that must be pressed after the card configuration has been changed.

MADI HD Link Card
This card provides the audio and control connections to the console through either a Cat-5 or an Optical-fibre MADI link. The corresponding MADI card in the console transmits the clock for the Compact Stagebox down the MADI stream. The second input on the card can either be used to provide a redundant connection to the console or to connect to a second system if two consoles are used for a monitor/FOH configuration.
The MADI card indicates its clock status with the ‘LOCK’ LED on the card. An RS422 link output is also fitted, allowing transmission of RS422 data via a ‘pipeline’ within the MADI stream from a corresponding port on the console’s MADI card for remote RS422 control. (This feature is supported by Vi-Series con-soles only).

• For single cable operation: The front panel toggle switch must be set to either ‘MAIN’ or ‘AUX’, depending on which socket is being used.
• For dual cable (redundant) operation: The front panel toggle switch must be set to ‘RED’ mode.
• Refer to the illustrations on the following pages.

Expansion Slots K and L (for optional D21m Cards)
In these slots, one or two additional input or output cards may be installed (refer to page 8 for available cards, page 16 for installation details). For more information on the D21m cards please refer to the ‘Vi IO Option Cards Technical Information’ document available from www.soundcraft.com in the ‘Downloads’ – ‘User Guides’ – ‘Soundcraft Vi1’ area.

GPIO
Two D-type connectors are provided handling 8 GP (general purpose) input and output channels, controlled remotely from the control surface. GP inputs are on opto-isolators, and GP outputs are on relay con-tacts.

Connector Pin Assignments:
GPI 1-8 (25-pin D-type, female, UNC 4-40 thread)

GPO 1-8 (25-pin D-type, female, UNC 4-40 thread)

Inputs:
Control inputs (GPI Xa/b) are completely independent and electrically isolated. They may be used either with the internal +5 V DC supply voltage, or with external voltages of 5…24 V DC, regardless of the polarity.

Outputs:

• Control outputs (GPO Xa/b) are completely independent, electrically isolated relay contacts, closed if active. Maximum switching power 62.5 VA / 30 W; max. switching voltage 50 V AC or DC; max. switching current 1 A. Contact resistance (initial value) is max. 100 mΩ at 6 V DC/1 A.
• The +5 V DC supply voltage and/or the ground (GND) terminals, together with the relay contacts, may be used to generate an output signal.

WARNING
The total current supplied by all VCC (+5 V DC) pins of the GPI/GPO 1-8 connectors must not exceed 600 mA.

CONNECTING IT UP

Compact Stagebox Connecting to Vi2-Vi6 Range Consoles
Note : Connections from the local rack to the Compact Stagebox may vary depending on actual flightcase and breakout panel options.

Compact Stagebox Connecting to Vi1 and Si Range Consoles

• Connections from the console to the Compact Stagebox may vary depending on actual flight and breakout panel options.
• For SI range consoles, currently, only an optical multi-mode fiber version MADI Card is available; however, the application is similar to the example given below.

Replacing I/O Modules

In order to replace an input or output module – e.g. if more inputs or outputs are required – first switch the Compact Stagebox OFF and unplug the mains cable(s).

• Observe the precautions for handling devices sensitive to electrostatic discharge – refer to p. 5.
• For all screws in question a no. 2.5 Allen screwdriver is used.
• Remove the top cover of the Compact Stagebox (2 countersunk screws M4x8 on top, 13 screws M4x6 around the upper edge).
• Then remove the module concerned. Unplug the flat cable from the backplane PCB and the supply loom from the module.
• Remove the 4 screws M4x6 at the module’s edges.Insert the new module and fix it with the 4 screws. Connect the flat cable to the corresponding socket on the backplane PCB (for correct connection refer to the illustration below).
• Connect the supply loom to the module. Supply looms are identical for input and output modules, no particular order has to be followed when reconnecting them. Like the power connections in a PC, there is one connector more than modules to feed; the fourth connector is not used.
• For fixing the top cover it is recommended to tighten all screws only after all of them have been inserted a few turns into their threads.
• Connect the Compact Stagebox to the mains again, switch it on and press the RECONFIG button with a small tool (e.g. the Allen screwdriver used before).
• Remember that the new input/output count needs to be configured in your console’s I/O mapping. Please refer to its user guide.

The 3 module slots are labeled A, C, and E; they correspond to the connectors of the backplane PCB according to the illustration above. There are 3 connectors on the left for input modules and 3 on the right for output modules. Modules must be connected to the correct connector in order to have a correct assignment of input and/or output channels.
In the standard configuration (2 input modules in slots A and C, and 1 output module in slot E) the modules are connected as follows:

• Input module A top connector on the left side of the backplane (P2)
• Input module C middle connector on the left side of the backplane (P13)
• Output module E bottom connector on the right side of the backplane (P20).

If someone wants now that all 3 modules are inputs to give a 48 input/0 output stage box, they are connected as follows:

• Input module A top connector on the left side of the backplane (P2)
• Input module C middle connector on the left side of the backplane (P13)
• Added input module E bottom connector on the left side of the backplane (P19).

Supply looms are identical for input and output modules. No particular order has to be followed when re-connecting them. Like the power connections in a PC, there is one connector more than modules to feed; this connector is not used.

Installing D21m I/O Ca

• In the K and L slots, one or two additional D21m input or output cards may be installed.
• In order to do so, first switch the Compact Stagebox OFF and unplug the mains cable(s).
• Remove the blank panel(s) with a size 2 screwdriver and insert the D21m card(s). Re-tighten their screws.
• Connect the Compact Stagebox to the mains again, switch it on, and press the RECONFIG button with a small tool (e.g. a size 2.5 Allen screwdriver).
• Remember that the new input/output count needs to be configured in your console’s I/O mapping. Please refer to its user guide.

For more information on the D21m cards please refer to the ‘Vi IO Option Cards Technical Information’ document available from www.soundcraft.com in the ‘Downloads’ – ‘User Guides’ – ‘Soundcraft Vi1’ area.

Replacing/Cleaning the Fan Air Filter Mat

• For cleaning or replacing the air filter mat, just pull the black frame away from the fan air inlet and remove the filter mat.
• In order to clean the filter mat, thoroughly rinse it with warm water and let it dry completely before reinstalling it.

References

• Homepage - Digigram
• RIEDEL » Home
• Soundcraft - Professional Audio Mixers | English (US)

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