behringer 1273 2 Channel Microphone Preamplifier Instruction Manual
- July 4, 2024
- Behringer
Table of Contents
behringer 1273 2 Channel Microphone Preamplifier
Product Information
Specifications
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Model: 1273
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Type: 2-Channel Microphone Preamplifier
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Features: 3-Band Equalizers, Custom-Built Midas
Transformers -
Version: 4.0
Product Usage Instructions
Important Safety Instructions
- This symbol indicates dangerous voltage inside the enclosure that may pose a risk of shock.
- Read and follow all instructions and warnings provided in the manual.
- Avoid contact with water, except for outdoor use.
- Clean the product only with a dry cloth.
- Ensure proper ventilation by not blocking openings and following installation guidelines.
- Protect the power cord from damage and keep it away from heat sources.
- Use only recommended attachments and accessories.
- Unplug during storms or prolonged periods of non-use.
- Consult qualified personnel for servicing and repair.
FAQ
Q: What should I do if I encounter a power-related issue with the
product?
A: If you experience any power-related problems, such as the device not
turning on or unusual sounds, immediately unplug the product and refrain from
further use. Contact qualified personnel for assistance.
Important Safety Instructions
CAUTION RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK! DA NAT ADENI
Terminals marked with this symbol carry an electrical current of sufficient
magnitude to constitute risk of electric shock. Use only high-quality
professional speaker cables with ¼” TS or twist-locking plugs pre-installed.
All other installations or modifications should be performed only by qualified
personnel.
This symbol, wherever it appears, alerts you to the presence of uninsulated
dangerous voltage inside the enclosure – voltage that may be sufficient to
constitute a risk of shock.
This symbol, wherever it appears, alerts you to important operating and
maintenance instructions in the accompanying literature. Please read the
manual.
Caution
To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not remove the top cover (or the rear
section). No user-serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified
personnel.
Caution
To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this appliance to
rain and moisture. The apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing
liquids and no objects filled with liquids, such as vases, shall be placed on
the apparatus.
Caution
These service instructions are for use by qualified service personnel only. To
reduce the risk of electric shock do not perform any servicing other than that
contained in the operation instructions. Repairs have to be performed by
qualified service personnel.
Warning Please refer to the information on the exterior of bottom enclosure for electrical and safety information before installing or operating the device.
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Please read and follow all instructions and warnings.
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Keep the apparatus away from water (except for outdoor products).
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Clean only with dry cloth.
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Do not block ventilation openings. Do not install in a confined space. Install only according to manufacturer’s instructions.
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Protect the power cord from damage, particularly at plugs and appliance socket.
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Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that
produce heat. -
Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other (only for USA and Canada). A grounding-type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
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Protect the power cord from damage, particularly at plugs and appliance socket.
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Use only attachments and accessories recommended by the manufacturer.
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Use only specified carts, stands, tripods, brackets, or tables. Use caution to prevent tip-overs when moving the cart/apparatus combination.
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Unplug during storms, or if not in use for a long period.
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Only use qualified personnel for servicing, especially after damage.
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The apparatus with protective earthing terminal shall be connected to a MAINS socket outlet with a protective earthing connection.
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Where the MAINS plug or an appliance coupler is used as the disconnect device, the disconnect device shall remain readily operable.
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Avoid installing in confined spaces like bookcases.
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Do not place naked flame sources, such as lighted candles, on the apparatus.
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Operating temperature range 5° to 45°C (41° to 113°F).
LEGAL DISCLAIMER
Music Tribe accepts no liability for any loss which may be suffered by any
person who relies either wholly or in part upon any description, photograph,
or statement contained herein. Technical specifications, appearances and other
information are subject to change without notice. All trademarks are the
property of their respective owners. Midas, Klark Teknik, Lab Gruppen, Lake,
Tannoy, Turbosound, TC Electronic, TC Helicon, Behringer, Bugera, Aston
Microphones and Coolaudio are trademarks or registered trademarks of Music
Tribe Global Brands Ltd. © Music Tribe Global Brands Ltd. 2024 All rights
reserved.
LIMITED WARRANTY
For the applicable warranty terms and conditions and additional information regarding Music Tribe’s Limited Warranty, please see complete details online at community. music tribe.com/support.
Introduction
Welcome!
Thank you for purchasing the 1273 Dual Mic Preamp and EQ.
The 1273 draws inspiration from the classic Neve modules from the 1970’s,
regarded by many as the best microphone preamp available. With the 1273,
Behringer brings this legendary dual microphone sound up to date in a compact
but highly useable format. To meet modern 21st Century demands, Behringer uses
premium components, rugged design and modern manufacturing techniques to offer
this product at a fraction of the price found on vintage units. This
modernized version of a classic will fit happily into a rack alongside the
high-tech audio gear of today and perform reliably and seamlessly.
Feature
- Two-channel microphone preamplifier with 3-band equalizers, based on the classic 1073 design
- Class A, all discrete circuitry for highest signal integrity
- Custom-built Midas input and output transformers
- Versatile gain controls to handle various type of inputs including mic, line and instrument
- Electronically controlled resistor-stepped 80 dB rotary gain switch for extreme precision and low noise
- Tone function changes input transformer impedance for mic optimization
- Dedicated Phase, Tone, Insert, Line, Instrument, and Phantom Power switches for each channel
- Inductor-based switchable equalizers section with a passive third-order high-pass filter
- Low-frequency boost/cut at 35, 60, 110 or 220 Hz
- Mid-frequency boost/cut at 360, 700, 1600, 3200, 4800 or 7200 Hz
- High-frequency boost/cut at 10, 12 or 16 kHz
- 5-position inductor-based high-pass filter, selectable for off, 50, 80, 160 or 300 Hz for each channel
- Transformer-balanced inputs and outputs on XLR/combo connectors
- High-precision 7-segment LED signal level meter for each channel
- Rugged 2U rack mount chassis for durability in portable applications
- Auto-ranging universal switch-mode power supply
About this manual
This is the operation manual for the 1273 Dual Mic Preamp and EQ. This manual
is intended to help get your unit installed and in operation as quickly as
possible by giving you unpacking, installation, connection, setting up and
operating instructions. To help familiarize you with the 1273, there is a
description of the front and rear panels, along with easy-to-follow user
instructions.
Getting Started
The 1273
This section shows you how to unpack, install, connect up, switch on and
configure the 1273.
This equipment is supplied by a mains voltage that can cause electric shock
injury. Before installing, setting up or operating this equipment, make sure
that you have read and fully understand all of this section and the “Important
safety instructions” at the front of this manual.
Unpacking
Carefully unpack your 1273 unit. Then, inspect the 1273 unit carefully for any
signs of damage that may have occurred during transit, and then notify the
courier immediately if you do discover any damage.
- Check the contents of your 1273 unit equipment package. If there are any parts missing, incorrect or faulty, please contact your local distributor.
- Please retain the original packing in case you should need to return the equipment to the manufacturer or supplier, or transport or ship the unit later.
- Before installing, setting up or operating this equipment, make sure you have read and fully understand all of the
- “IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS” at the front of this document.
Installation
WARNING
- Please refer to the information on the exterior of bottom enclosure for electrical and safety information before installing or operating the device.
- Before installing and operating this equipment, make sure it is correctly connected to the protective earth conductor of the mains voltage supply socket outlet through each mains lead.
- Ideally a cool area is preferred, away from power distribution equipment or other potential sources of interference.
- Do not install the equipment in places of poor ventilation.
- Do not install this equipment in a location subjected to excessive heat, dust or mechanical vibration. Allow for adequate ventilation around the equipment. Whenever possible, keep the equipment out of direct sunlight.
Mount in rack only.
Power
The internal power supplies are of the switch mode type that automatically
senses the incoming mains voltage and will work where the nominal voltage is
in the range 100 VAC to 240 VAC. The correct leads for connection in the area
to which the unit was shipped are supplied with the unit. The equipment should
only be plugged into the mains outlets using the supplied leads.
Make sure the plug fitted on the supplied mains cable is securely fitted to
the mains IEC connector on the unit. When fitting or removing a plug, always
hold the plug itself and never use the cable, as this may damage it. Never
insert or remove an electric plug with wet hands.
Handling the equipment
When lifting or moving the equipment, always take its size and weight into
consideration.
Completely isolate the equipment electrically and disconnect all cables from
the equipment before moving it.
Electric fields
In accordance with Part 15 of the FCC Rules & Regulations, “… changes or
modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance
could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.”
Should this product be used in an electromagnetic field that is amplitude
modulated by an audio frequency signal (20 Hz to 20 kHz), the signal to noise
ratio may be degraded. Degradation of up to 60 dB at a frequency corresponding
to the modulation signal may be experienced under extreme conditions (3 V/m,
90% modulation).
Connecting up
The 1273 unit uses the following leads and connectors:
Analog Inputs
Mic/Line Input – Transformer Balanced XLR and 1/4″ TRS connectors
- 300/1200 Ω Mic, 10 kΩ Line
- Instrument input 600 kΩ
Analog Outputs:
Line Output – Transformer Balanced XLR and 1/4″ TRS connectors – <80 Ω
Power Connections:
IEC mains inlet – 100-240 V AC~50-60 Hz
For further information about the connectors used in conjunction with the 1273
unit, see Section 5. Connectors.
Front Panel
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Mic/Line input – Combo jack provides balanced female XLR and 1/4″ TRS input connections for mic/line equipment.
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Unbalanced signals can also be connected by using 1/4″ TS connectors with the 1/4″ chassis connectors. +48 V LED – Indicates if +48 V phantom power is active.
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+48 V – Push to apply +48 V phantom power to the front and rear XLR inputs
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Ø – Polarity 180° invert button.
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TONE – This changes the input impedance for the mic input, button out is 1200 Ω, pushed in is 300 Ω.
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LINE – Selects the line input to be used. This button disables the other 2 inputs (Mic/Inst).
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INSERT – The Insert point is post gain, pre-EQ and could be used to add a compressor pre-EQ.
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INST – Activates the front panel instrument input. This button disables the other 2 inputs (Mic/Line). The input transformer is also in the instrument path, therefore when the tone button is used there will be a slight warming effect.
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INST Input – Unbalanced signals can also be connected using 1/4″ TS connectors with the 1/4″ chassis connectors.
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GAIN – The preamp has a gain range of -20 dB to 80 dB in 5 dB steps.
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LOW – The low band has ±15 dB gain adjusted with the outer control. The inner control selects the frequency: off, 35 Hz to 220 Hz in 5 steps.
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MID – The mid band has ±15 dB gain adjusted with the outer control. The inner control selects the frequency: off, 360 Hz to 7.2 kHz in 7 steps.
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HIGH – The high band has ±15 dB gain adjusted with the outer control. The inner control selects the frequency: off, 10 kHz to 16 kHz in 4 steps.
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HI PASS – Control for the high pass filter can be set to: Off, 50 Hz, 80 Hz, 160 Hz and 300 Hz.
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EQ IN – Switch the EQ in and out of circuit. The LED indicates the EQ circuit is active.
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OUTPUT LEVEL – To achieve the full gain as indicated on the gain switch, level has to be set to full (0 dBu in, 0 dBu out for 0 dB on gain switch setting).
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METER – Shows output level from -30 dB to 24 dB.
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POWER – Turn the unit on and off. Up is ON.
Rear Panel -
POWER – Mains IEC socket. -
LINE OUT XLR – Balanced male XLR.
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LINE OUT TRS – 1/4″ TRS output connections for line equipment. Unbalanced signals can also be connected using 1/4″ TS connectors with the 1/4″ chassis connectors.
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RETURN – Insert return using 1/4″ TS input connections for line level equipment.
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SEND – Insert send using 1/4″ TS output connections for line level equipment.
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LINE IN – Line input using 1/4″ TRS input connections for line level equipment.
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MIC IN – XLR input for microphones.
Connectors
To ensure the correct and reliable operation of the equipment, only high- quality balanced, screened, twisted pair audio cable should be used. XLR and 1/4″ connector shells should be of metal construction so that they provide a screen when connected to the console/snake and, where appropriate, they should have pin 1 connected to the cable screen.
- Line output audio connector. Female XLR plug and male XLR chassis connector with the following pinouts: 1 = ground; 2 = hot; and 3 = cold.
- Balanced line input audio connector. Male XLR plug and female XLR chassis connector with the following pinouts: 1 = ground; 2 = hot; and 3 = cold.
- Balanced line input/output audio connector. Male TRS plug to female. TRS chassis connector with the following pinouts: 1/Sleeve = ground; 2/Tip = hot (+); and 3/Ring = cold (-).
- Unbalanced line input/output audio connector. Male TS plug to female. TRS chassis connector with the following pinouts: 2, 3/Sleeve = ground/cold (-); and 1/Tip = hot (+).
Operation
- The 1273 is a dual channel pre-amp and equalizer. It can be used to pull various different classic tones from the sources connected. 48 V is switched independently per channel to allow microphones and DI boxes to be used that require 48 V for operation. The preamp can be overdriven using the GAIN control to pull out rich harmonic distortion from the source input which can be pleasing to the ears. In this case, the output level can be brought back to manageable levels by reducing the LEVEL control.
- The TONE button changes the input impedance for the mic input (1200/300 Ω). The sound will become a little warmer when 300 is selected (pushed in), which may suit ribbon mics better.
- The instrument input impedance is 600 kΩ. The input transformer is also in the instrument path, therefore when the tone button is used there is a gentle warming effect which can be pleasing on bass and guitars where the tone is a little thin.
- The unbalanced insert point allows other external equipment to be placed in the signal chain before the EQ such as a compressor.
- This is useful when tracking sources and a good way to increase headroom when recording.
- The HI-PASS can be used to remove excess rumble from the signal if required and is still active if the EQ is switched out of circuit.
- The EQ section provides a Low Shelf function (cut or boost all frequencies the same adjustable amount below the selected frequency), a High Shelf function (cut or boost all frequencies the same adjustable amount above the selected frequency), and a Mid Cut/Boost which applies a “bell curve” cut or boost at the selected frequency.
- The front and rear XLR and line inputs for each input should not be used at the same time.
Other important information
Important information
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Register online.
Please register your new Music Tribe equipment right after you purchase it by visiting musictribe.com. Registering your purchase using our simple online form helps us to process your repair claims more quickly and efficiently. Also, read the terms and conditions of our warranty, if applicable. -
Malfunction. Should your Music Tribe Authorized Reseller not be located in your vicinity, you may contact the Music Tribe Authorized Fulfiller for your country listed under “Support” at musictribe.com. Should your country not be listed, please check if your problem can be dealt with by our
“Online Support” which may also be found under “Support” at musictribe. com. Alternatively, please submit an online warranty claim at musictribe.com BEFORE returning the product. -
Power Connections. Before plugging the unit into a power socket, please make sure you are using the correct mains voltage for your particular model. Faulty fuses must be replaced with fuses of the same type and rating without exception.
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION COMPLIANCE INFORMATION
- Behringer
- 1273
- Responsible Party Name: Music Tribe Commercial NV Inc.
- Address: 122 E. 42nd St.1,
- 8th Floor NY, NY 10168,
- United States
- Email Address: legal@musictribe.com
1273
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 receiver.
- Connect the equipment into 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.
This equipment complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
- This device may not cause harmful interference, and
- This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
Important information:
Changes or modifications to the equipment not expressly approved by Music
Tribe can void the user’s authority to use the equipment.
- Hereby, Music Tribe declares that this product is in compliance with Directive 2014/30/EU, Directive 2011/65/EU and Amendment 2015/863/EU, Directive 2012/19/EU, Regulation 519/2012
- REACH SVHC and Directive 1907/2006/EC.
- Full text of EU DoC is available at https://community.musictribe.com/
- EU Representative: Music Tribe Brands DK A/S
- Address: Gammel Strand 44, DK-1202 København K, Denmark
- UK Representative: Music Tribe Brands UK Ltd.
- Address: 8th Floor, 20 Farringdon Street London EC4A 4AB, United Kingdom
Correct disposal of this product: This symbol indicates that this product must not be disposed of with household waste, according to the WEEE Directive (2012/19/EU) and your national law. This product should be taken to a collection center licensed for the recycling of waste electrical and electronic equipment (EEE). The mishandling of this type of waste could have a possible negative impact on the environment and human health due to potentially hazardous substances that are generally associated with EEE. At the same time, your cooperation in the correct disposal of this product will contribute to the efficient use of natural resources. For more information about where you can take your waste equipment for recycling, please contact your local city office, or your household waste collection service.