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Guidelines for qualified technicians, workspace, tools, and obtaining service data.
Procedures for mains power connection, cord, fuse, and opening/closing the unit safely.
Procedures for testing, packing, operation checks, and fault diagnosis.
Identifies external components and their part numbers on the mixer.
Identifies internal components and wiring harnesses with part numbers.
Introduction to SONAR LE software and basic installation steps.
Lists the main features and capabilities of the SONAR LE software package.
Minimum and recommended system specifications for SONAR LE.
Steps for configuring SONAR LE to work with the ZED mixing console via USB.
Detailed input/output levels and headroom specifications for the mixer.
Mixer's frequency response and total harmonic distortion plus noise measurements.
USB audio interface performance and noise level measurements.
The ZED R-16 Firewire is a professional mixing console designed for studio and live applications, offering a comprehensive set of features for audio recording, mixing, and monitoring. It integrates a Firewire audio interface, allowing direct connection to a computer for multi-track recording and playback.
The ZED R-16 serves as a central hub for audio production, combining analog mixing capabilities with digital audio workstation (DAW) integration. It features 16 mono input channels, each equipped with a high-quality microphone preamplifier, 4-band EQ with two swept mid-bands, and multiple auxiliary sends. Additionally, it includes stereo input channels for connecting line-level sources.
The console provides extensive routing options, allowing users to send signals to various outputs, including main stereo outputs, group outputs, auxiliary sends, and direct outputs for multi-track recording. The Firewire interface facilitates seamless integration with a computer, enabling the ZED R-16 to function as a 16-in/16-out audio interface. This allows for simultaneous recording of all input channels into a DAW and playback of multiple tracks from the DAW back through the console for mixing.
A dedicated monitor section offers control over studio monitors, headphones, and alternative speaker outputs, ensuring accurate monitoring during recording and mixing. The console also incorporates a MIDI control section, providing transport controls (RW, STOP, PLAY, FF, REC, INC, SHIFT) and assignable rotary encoders for controlling DAW parameters. This allows for hands-on control of software functions, enhancing workflow efficiency.
The ZED R-16 is designed to be a versatile tool for musicians, producers, and engineers, offering both the warmth and immediacy of an analog mixer alongside the power and flexibility of a digital recording system. Its robust construction and comprehensive feature set make it suitable for a wide range of audio production tasks, from tracking individual instruments to mixing full-band recordings.
The ZED R-16 is designed for intuitive operation, with clearly labeled controls and a logical layout. Each mono channel features a gain control, a high-pass filter (HPF), a 4-band equalizer with high, high-mid, low-mid, and low-frequency bands (the high-mid and low-mid bands are swept for precise tonal shaping), and auxiliary send controls. The EQ In button allows for quick A/B comparison of the EQ settings. Each channel also includes pan control, mute, and PFL (Pre-Fader Listen) buttons, along with a 60mm fader for level adjustment.
Stereo channels offer simplified controls, typically including level, balance, and auxiliary sends, along with a 60mm fader. The console's master section includes dedicated auxiliary master controls, each with an AFL (After-Fader Listen) button. The MIDI & LR master faders provide control over MIDI parameters and the main stereo mix, respectively.
The monitor section is crucial for managing audio playback. It includes controls for talkback level, allowing communication with musicians in a separate room, and a talkback microphone input. Headphone level and CRM (Control Room Monitor) level controls enable independent adjustment of monitoring volumes. Buttons for 2-track dubbing, 2-track replacement, and routing to studio and auxiliary sends provide flexible monitoring options. The monitor section also features a stereo LED meter bar for visual level indication.
Connectivity is comprehensive, with XLR inputs for microphones, TRS jack inputs for line-level sources, and RCA phono inputs for consumer-level devices. XLR outputs are provided for the main stereo mix, while TRS jacks are used for inserts, group outputs, and auxiliary outputs. A large headphone jack and a smaller 3.5mm headphone jack are available for monitoring. The Firewire connection allows for high-speed digital audio transfer to and from a computer.
The ZED R-16 is compatible with various DAW software, including Cakewalk SONAR LE, which is included with the console. The manual provides detailed instructions on how to set up and configure SONAR LE to work seamlessly with the ZED R-16, including driver installation, audio input/output routing, and MIDI control setup. This integration allows users to record multiple tracks simultaneously, playback recorded audio through the mixer, and use the console's faders and knobs to control DAW parameters.
The ZED R-16 is designed with serviceability in mind, allowing for component replacement and repair by qualified technicians. The manual provides an overview of the interior parts, including various circuit boards and harnesses, to aid in identification and troubleshooting. Key circuit boards such as the Firewire audio board, mono input boards, stereo input boards, studio PCB, auxiliary master board, master LR board, master out board, meter board, fader boards, fader master board, fader slave boards, keypad board, master distribution board, and PSU (Power Supply Unit) are identified.
The console's modular design, with separate circuit assemblies for different functions, simplifies fault diagnosis and repair. In the event of a component failure, replacement circuit assemblies can be ordered from Allen & Heath. The manual emphasizes the importance of using correct tools and adhering to safety precautions, especially when dealing with mains power and internal components.
For ongoing maintenance, the manual recommends keeping the unit clean and free from dirt or debris, which could cause equipment failure. It also advises checking all assemblies, harnesses, and connectors for correct alignment and secure plugging after any service work. Jumper settings and control configurations should be verified to match customer requirements.
The ZED R-16 comes with a one-year limited warranty covering defects in materials or workmanship. For warranty service, the defective unit should be returned to Allen & Heath or an authorized agent with proof of purchase, packed appropriately to prevent transit damage. The manual also directs users to the Allen & Heath website and technical support for the latest information, technical documentation, and distributor contacts for further assistance. This ensures that users have access to resources for both routine maintenance and more complex repairs, extending the lifespan and reliability of the device.
General| Type | Analog Mixer with FireWire Interface |
|---|---|
| Channels | 16 |
| Mic Preamps | 16 |
| Faders | 100mm |
| Aux Sends | 4 |
| Subgroups | 4 |
| FireWire Interface | Yes |
| USB I/O | No |
| Headphone Outputs | 1 |
| Phantom Power | Yes (48V) |
| FireWire I/O | 16 in / 16 out |
| Outputs | Multiple |
| Monitor Outputs | 2 (L/R) |
