|
This page: Routing; In Use
Routing
Most headphone amps are simple distribution amplifiers: You feed them a signal and that signal is passed along to the "cans." The listener can control overall level, but that's usually all. The HPFX is more like a mini mixer that allows the artist to control his or her own level relative to the mix, and even add some effects.
There are four inputs: two balanced XLR's for microphones, and two unbalanced 1/4" inputs for the main mix. In addition to the four front-panel headphone outs (each with its own headphone amp and level control), the HPFX has two Mic Thru outs that send the signal coming to the Mic Input back out to your mic preamp. This signal is uncolored by the HPFX. There's also a stereo Effects Output that can be used to send the same signal heard at the headphones output to a mixer, poweramp, or extra headphone amplifier.
The HPFX offers extensive routing
(click for a close-up)
|
But what makes the HPFX so cool is the inclusion on an internal digital effects processor. The effects, geared primarily for vocalists, are mostly spatial -- various reverbs and delays, with a couple of modulation effects thrown in for good measure. Editing is basic and the selection is small compared to a dedicated multi-effects processor, but the important thing is that the artist has complete control over the level and choice of effects -- perfect for singers who want a cathedral of reverb to surround their voices. Again, any changes to mic level or effects are heard only at the headphones out -- the signal going to the recorder is untouched, although you could bring the affected signal into the mix using the Effects Outputs.
In Use
Setting up the HPFX is a breeze. Simply plug your in your mic(s), route the Mic Thru to your mic preamp, and plug your mixer's monitor or aux outputs to the Stereo Mix input. The HPFX has a pad on the Stereo Mix input that lets it handle a hot output like your mixer's headphones out -- a nice touch. Front panel Mic Level and Effects Blend controls let you set the balance between mic, mix, and effects. Note that the HPFX is not a mic preamp -- if you're using a condenser mic, your mixer or preamp will have to provide the phantom power. This is a good thing; mic-preamp circuitry would cause the HPFX to color your sound.
The effects sound a little noisy compared to a dedicated effects device, but they worked well for this application. I especially liked that I could control the blend of each microphone separately, letting me route my vocals to the internal effects while leaving the second source, my guitar, dry. Although operation was uncomplicated, I would have liked to find more details about the available effects in the manual.
The well-built and clearly marked chassis has a detailed routing diagram on the top for handy reference, yet another thoughtful touch on this useful studio tool.
|
|
| Price US: |
US$359 |
| Inputs: |
(2) XLR Mic Inputs
(2) 1/4" Mix Inputs |
| Outputs: |
(2) XLR Mic Thru
(1) 1/4" TRS Stereo Effects Output
(4) 1/4" TRS Headphones Outputs |
| Effects: |
Reverb (5 settings), Slapback (4), Echo (4), Special F/X (3-Includes flanger, chorus, and delay combinations |
| Controls: |
Mic Level, Effects Blend, Effects Select, Parameter Adjust, (4) Headphones Level, Stereo Input 20dB pad |
| Power : |
9v external "wall wart" included |
| Contact: |
ART (Applied Research and Technology)
(716) 436-2720; www.artroch.com |
|
|
