The BEHRINGER POWERPLAY PRO HA4600 is a professional multi-purpose 4-channel headphone distribution amplifier system designed for both stage and studio applications. It features four totally independent high-power stereo amplifiers within a single rack space, offering exceptional flexibility and sonic quality.
Function Description:
The HA4600 serves as a high-end headphone amplifier, suitable for demanding professional recording, radio and TV studios, and CD and digital production environments. It can function as a reference unit for assessing the quality of a final mix or as a distribution amplifier for adding playbacks in studio use. Its extensive capabilities and ingenious signal-source distribution system make it universally applicable.
Each of the four channels is identical, featuring three illuminated push-button switches, four rotary controls, two jacks, and eight LEDs for precise control and monitoring. A common main section includes one control, one jack, and five LEDs.
The device allows for mixing an additional input signal with the master signal via the AUX IN inputs, with a BALANCE control to adjust the volume ratio between the two signals. This Aux function effectively replaces a monitor mixer, simplifying common applications such as a singer adding a vocal track to an existing playback. The playback signal is fed via the MAIN IN inputs, and the pre-amplified vocal signal is added via the AUX connector. The BALANCE control is adjusted for a perfect mix, while the OUTPUT LEVEL control determines the overall volume. The four independent channels support separate recording and mixing for up to four musicians. Multiple HA4600 units can be cascaded using the MAIN OUT outputs for expanded setups.
The DIRECT IN socket on the front panel allows for easy connection of external signal sources, such as a DAT recorder for replaying music to musicians in the studio. Using this input automatically bypasses the signal from the MAIN IN socket.
For enhanced flexibility, each channel includes a MONO switch, which converts the amplifier from stereo to mono operation. This is particularly useful in live applications where a stereo program might sound irritating due to large channel separation. In mono mode, the L MUTE and R MUTE switches allow muting the corresponding left or right input signal, with the non-muted signal heard over both headphone outputs. This routing option enables setting up two different programs via the left and right inputs, making one or the other audible as desired. This Mute function is beneficial for combining playback with simultaneous vocal recording, eliminating the need for a singer to hold one headphone pad away from their ear.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Amplifiers: Four totally independent high-power stereo amplifiers.
- Inputs:
- MAIN Input: XLR- and 1/4" TRS, HF-filtered, servo-balanced. Impedance: 40 kΩ balanced, 20 kΩ unbalanced. Max. input level: +21 dBu balanced and unbalanced. CMRR: typically 40 dB, >55 dB @ 1 kHz.
- AUX IN and DIRECT IN Input: 1/4" TRS (tip = left, ring = right, sleeve = ground), unbalanced. Impedance: >15 kΩ unbalanced. Max. input level: +21 dBu unbalanced. CMRR: typically 40 dB, >50 dB @ 1 kHz.
- Outputs:
- MAIN OUT: XLR- and 1/4" TRS, balanced/unbalanced. Max. output level: +21 dBu balanced and unbalanced.
- Headphone Outputs: One front and two rear 1/4" TRS outputs per channel. Minimum load: 100 Ohms.
- System Specifications:
- Frequency Response: 10 Hz to 100 kHz, +/-3 dB.
- Noise: >99 dB (unweighted, 22 Hz to 22 kHz, >95 dB @ +4 dBu).
- Distortion (THD): 0.005 % typ. @ +4 dBu, 1 kHz, Gain 1.
- Power Amplifier: Max. output power: +26 dBm. Min. output impedance: 100 Ω.
- EQ: Ultra-musical 2-band EQ (Bass and Treble) per channel for effective sound adaptation (+/-15 dB).
- Displays:
- Input Level: 4-digit LED-display (-24/-12/0/+12 dBu).
- Output Level: Accurate 8-digit LED output meter per channel (-24/-18/-12/-6/0/+6/+12 dBu/CLIP).
- Power Supply: Shielded toroidal power transformer.
- Mains Voltage: USA/Canada: 120 V~, 60 Hz; U.K./Australia: 240 V~, 50 Hz; Europe: 230 V~, 50 Hz; General export model: 120/230 V~, 50 - 60 Hz.
- Power Consumption: 40 W.
- Fuses: 100-120 V~: T 630 mA H; 200-240 V~: T 315 mA H.
- Mains Connection: Standard IEC receptacle.
- Physical:
- Dimensions: Approx. 1 3/4" (44.5 mm) x 19" (482.6 mm) x 8 1/2" (217 mm).
- Weight: Approx. 6 lbs. (2.7 kg).
- Shipping Weight: Approx. 7 3/4 lbs. (3.5 kg).
Usage Features:
- Four Independent Stereo Amplifiers: Provides four distinct listening environments.
- Four Independent Input/Aux Sections: Allows for up to four stereo mixes.
- Stereo Aux Input per Channel: Enables mixing in additional instruments or sound sources.
- 2-Band EQ per Channel: Offers individual sound adaptation with Bass and Treble controls.
- Output Level Control per Channel: Independent volume adjustment for each amplifier.
- Mono/Stereo Switch per Channel: Increases flexibility by allowing mono operation.
- Left & Right Mute Switches per Channel: Provides two different mixes in mono mode.
- Multiple Headphone Outputs: One front and two rear 1/4" TRS outputs per channel for connecting several headphones (minimum impedance 100 Ohm).
- Front Panel Direct Input: Convenient connection for any source.
- Cascading Capability: Paralleled main outputs allow linking multiple headphone amplifiers.
- Servo-Balanced Inputs/Outputs: Gold-plated XLR and 1/4" TRS connectors with automatic hum suppression and level correction for unbalanced signals.
- High-Quality Components: Detented ALPS potentiometers and illuminated switches for durability and precise control.
- Low-Noise Design: Utilizes ultra low-noise 4580 operational amplifiers for outstanding audio performance.
Maintenance Features:
- Rugged Construction: High-quality components and robust build ensure long life and durability.
- Shielded Toroidal Power Transformer: Minimizes noise interference.
- Voltage Selector: Fuse holder allows checking and changing the operating voltage (except for export models designed for a fixed voltage).
- Fuse Protection: Equipped with a fuse holder for protection against electrical surges.
- Cooling: Requires sufficient space around the unit for cooling to prevent overheating.
- Grounding: All units must be properly grounded for safety.
- Servicing: Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Do not open the top cover or rear section as there are no user-serviceable parts inside.
- Cleaning: Clean only with a dry cloth.