ALLEN&HEATH GL2400 USER GUIDE Publication AP5597
Limited One Year Warranty This product is warranted to be free from defects in materials or workmanship for a period of one year from the date of purchase by the original owner. To ensure a high level of performance and reliability for which this equipment has been designed and manufactured, read this User Guide before operating.
Important Safety Instructions WARNINGS - Read the following before proceeding : CAUTION ATTENTION: RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE – NE PAS OUVRIR Read instructions: Read and retain these safety and operating instructions for future reference. Adhere to all warnings printed here and on the console. Follow the operating instructions printed in this User Guide. Do not remove cover: Operate the console with its underside cover correctly fitted.
General Precautions Damage To prevent damage to the controls and cosmetics avoid placing heavy objects on the control surface, scratching the surface with sharp objects, or rough handling and vibration. Environment Protect from excessive dirt, dust, heat and vibration when operating and storing. Avoid tobacco ash, smoke, drinks spillage, and exposure to rain and moisture. If the console becomes wet, switch off and remove mains power immediately. Allow to dry out thoroughly before using again.
Introduction Welcome to the Allen & Heath GL2400, the latest generation of the popular GL series of dual function live sound mixing consoles. We have tried to keep this user guide brief and to the point. Please read it fully before starting. Included is information on installing, connecting and operating the console, panel drawings, system block diagram and technical specification.
+48V +48V POLARITY POLARITY LINE 20 30 0 40 50 -14 6 6 (PAD) GAIN 60 40 20 30 40 50 6 60 40 HPF 100Hz -20 16 OO -15 1k ST2 -5 12k -20 700 HM -15 1k 6k 500Hz 15k 3k +15 4k 700 HM 500Hz -15 70 180 +15 45 LM 70 1k -15 +15 80Hz 180 16 CH15 LM -15 +15 80Hz -15 +15 -15 HF 12k AUX 1 +6 AUX +6 AUX LM 80Hz 80Hz +6 OO +6 +6 +6 -15 +6 OO +6 OO +15 +6 OO +6 OO EQ IN +6 OO POST PRE AUX OO +6 OO +6 +6 OO AUX OO +6 OO +6 OO 6
The Range: GL2400-16 14 mono mic/line, 2 mic/dual stereo GL2400-24 22 mono mic/line, 2 mic/dual stereo GL2400-32 30 mono mic/line, 2 mic/dual stereo GL2400-40 38 mono mic/line, 2 mic/dual stereo RPS11 External power supply for the GL2400-40 MPS12 Backup power supply for the 16,24,32 frame sizes GL2400-SLV2 Sys-Link V2 console in/out expander option kit MONITOR R OUT LAMP L MATRIX 2TRK OUT R EXT IN 4 EXT IN 3 EXT IN 2 EXT IN 1 MTX 4 MTX 3 MTX 2 MTX 1 INSERT L/M R 2TRK IN R L
Introducing the Allen & Heath GL2400 The GL2400 is a 4-bus dual function analogue mixing console designed for professional audio applications. Whether mixing FOH, monitors or both, recording live or in the studio, installed in a busy venue, out on the road touring, or earning its keep in rental stock, the GL2400 provides the perfect solution. Engineered to the same exacting standards as our top of the range consoles it ensures the highest reliability and finest sonic performance.
Here are just a few key points we considered when specifying the GL2400: Affordability We understand your need to work within a realistic budget and know you want to get the very best return for your investment. We know too that even the lowest budget shows put the same tough demands on the operator who wants the reassurance of continued reliability and intuitive control, the satisfaction of achieving that special sound, and the functionality to deal with the trickiest situations.
Installing the Console The GL2400 has a space saving, compact chassis design. This is convenient both in saving seats for the paying audience in a busy venue, and in reducing the size, complexity and weight of flight casing for on-the-road use. The control surface has a 10 degree slope for optimum visibility during operation. The rear connector panel has a split angle design for ease of plugging and unplugging the connectors.
Connecting Power CAUTION RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT OPEN EXT DC IN ON/OFF I MAINS INPUT 0 FUSE T1.6A L 250V 20MM AVIS: RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE - NE PAS OUVRIR. WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPARATUS TO RAIN OR MOISTURE. THIS APPARATUS MUST BE EARTHED BY THE POWER CORD.
OUTPUT INPUT XLR male socket XLR female socket 1 2 1 1 4 = 0V LAMP PIN 2 = HOT 3 1=ground 2=hot + BALANCED 2 3 1+3 = 12V Female XLR plug 3=cold UNBALANCED 3 2=hot + 1=ground BALANCED XLR male plug 3=cold UNBALANCED INPUT / OUTPUT HEADPHONES UNBALANCED link Ring to Sleeve Sleeve=ground Ring=RIGHT Tip=LEFT Sleeve=ground Ring=cold Tip=hot + BALANCED 19 0V (CHS) 18 L+ 17 R+ 16 GRP 1+ 15 GRP 2+ 14 GRP 3+ 13 GRP 4+ 12 AUX 1+ 11 AUX 2+ 10 AUX 3+ 9 AUX 4+ 8 AUX 5+ 7 AUX 6+ 6 PFL+ 5 AF
Audio Connections The GL2400 uses professional grade 3 pin XLR and 1/4" TRS (3 pole) jack sockets. To ensure best performance, we recommend that you use high quality audio cables and connectors, and take time to check for reliable and accurate cable assembly. It is well known that most audio system problems are due to faulty or sub standard interconnecting leads.
The Console Connectors MONO CHANNEL MIC / LINE IN The LINE (PAD) switch selects either the MIC XLR or the LINE TRS jack as the input source. The XLR is normalled through the TRS jack so that it can be used for microphone or line level signals when nothing is plugged into the jack socket. This gives the channel preamp a massive headroom with +34dBu maximum input capability using XLR or jack. Both inputs are balanced but can be wired to work with unbalanced signals when INPUT required.
AUX 6 AUX 5 AUX 4 AUX 3 AUX 2 AUX 1 Operating Modes In FOH mode, LR feeds the main PA. M sums the L and R post-fade signals to provide an additional feed for a mono fill speaker or zone, or a main feed into a mono PA. Groups 1-4 may be used for multitrack recording, zone feeds and so on, or simply left unconnected where they are used as ‘subgroups’ to LR for level masters and/or inserted processing. In monitor mode Groups 1-4 and LR XLRs and inserts become the aux mix masters.
The MONO Input Channel +48V POLARITY +48V Switches +48VDC to the channel input XLR for powering microphones or DI boxes that need phantom power. The power is current limited through 6k8 ohm resistors to pins 2 and 3. LINE (PAD) 0 20 30 40 GAIN 50 -14 6 60 40 HPF 100Hz HF WARNING: Do not connect unbalanced sources or cables to inputs with phantom power selected. To avoid loud clicks always mute the channel before switching +48V on or off and when plugging or unplugging microphones.
AUX SENDS These rotary controls adjust how much channel signal is mixed to the aux outputs. Each of the 6 auxes has its own control. They adjusts from fully off to +6dB boost. Unity gain 0dB is marked at 3 o’clock position. Auxes 1-4, 5-6 are switched pre/post. The settings may be changed if preferred by repositioning internal jumper link options. They offer several different combinations of pre and post-fade sends, and a post-EQ option for the pre-fade sends.
The STEREO Input Channel +48V 20 MIC 30 40 GAIN 50 60 6 ST3 -5 0 5 -10 -20 10 16 OO STEREO CH16 LR ST4 -5 0 5 -10 -20 10 16 OO STEREO CH16 LR HF 12k -15 +15 -15 +15 -15 +15 HM 2k5 LM 250Hz LF 80Hz -15 +15 EQ IN AUX 1 OO +6 OO +6 OO +6 OO +6 AUX 2 AUX 3 AUX 4 POST PRE AUX 5 OO +6 OO +6 AUX 6 POST PRE = BAL L ODD R EVEN MUTE Each GL2400 stereo channel features a mono microphone preamp as well as two stereo line inputs.
The GROUP / AUX Masters AUX 0 1 OO +10 AFL REV GRP1 TO LR = PAN L R PK! +6 0 SIG MUTE AFL AUX MASTERS Each aux mix has a master level control that adjusts the output level to match external equipment, or trims the monitor, effect or other send without affecting the mix balance. Up to +10dB boost is available above the normal 0dB position. Note that this becomes the group or master in monitor mode.
The AUX 5-6, L-R-M Masters AUX AUX 0 5 OO 0 6 +10 OO AFL +10 AFL REV REV MODE FOH MONITOR LISTEN WEDGE MONO (L+R) AUX 6 (AUX FED SUB) PK! +6 0 SIG MUTE AFL PK! +6 0 SIG M Master A 100mm fader adjusts the level of the signal to the M output XLR. The master is fully featured and includes a 4 LED bar meter, an AFL switch and a MUTE switch. MUTE AFL LR Masters Separate 100mm faders control the main mix L and R output levels. They provide +10dB maximum boost.
7x4 MATRIX The matrix adds to the powerful multi-tasking capability of the GL2400. It provides a set of 4 additional console outputs. It is a ‘mixer within a mixer’ creating its output from any combination of the groups, main LR mix and external input. It can be used to provide duplicate main outputs or to create new mixes from these outputs. The matrix controls are positioned conveniently away from the live performance controls to avoid accidental operation.
MONITOR, TALKBACK and SIGNAL GENERATOR Console Monitor Comprehensive engineer’s headphones and local monitoring is provided. Select either LR or 2-track return as the default source using the L-R / 2TRK switch. Pressing PFL or AFL elsewhere on the console automatically overrides the current monitor source with the signal from the channel or master selection. The red PFL/AFL active indicator illuminates and the console meters display the active signal.
GL2400 Applications and Operating Tips The following is a collection of brief descriptions, application notes, hints and tips to help the operator understand some of the technical terms referred to, and to get the most out of the uniquely capable GL2400 live sound mixing console. They are written as a concise reference to spark your imagination to creatively and effectively deal with the many challenges now faced in modern day mixing.
Using the Oscillator / Noise Generator The GL2400 includes a useful signal generator able to produce a pure 1kHz sine wave tone, or a pink noise test source. This is invaluable in testing the system components and setting up correct gain structure. The generator can be routed independently to the various console outputs. OSC/NOISE MIN MAX 1kHz PINK ON SELECT L-R GRP 1-4 AUX 1-2 AUX 3-4 AUX 5-6 Use the 1kHz tone to line up the connected equipment.
AFL Using PFL / AFL Allen & Heath are renowned for bringing you the most comprehensive engineer’s monitoring system in consoles at this price point. We recognise the importance of correct gain structure and signal handling. The GL2400 includes LED meters for every input channel and main output, as well as a pair of high resolution meters dedicated to monitor duty only. In monitor mode the M fader and associated controls become a full featured PFL/AFL monitor feed for the engineer’s listen wedge.
Polarity POLARITY Refers to the positive (+) and negative (-) wires of a loudspeaker or balanced audio connection. The console input channels include POLARITY switches which reverse the + and – input connections.
Dual Functionality Now an industry standard, Allen & Heath pioneered this feature with the introduction of the first GL consoles in the ‘90s. In the past it was necessary to stock two different types of live sound console, one for mixing FOH (front-of-house), the other designed for mixing on-stage monitors. With the introduction of a few clever ‘mode’ switches we changed all that. Now, the same console can be quickly configured to carry out either task properly and without compromise.
Applications for the Matrix EXT IN EXT IN OO +6 GRP EXT IN OO +6 GRP 1 OO +6 OO +6 OO +6 OO OO +6 GRP OO +6 L OO +6 OO +6 LEVEL OO OO +6 +6 AFL OO +6 AFL OO +6 OO +6 OO +6 L OO +6 R OO +6 LEVEL MUTE +6 4 +6 R OO OO GRP OO +6 LEVEL MUTE +6 L R +6 3 OO +6 OO GRP 4 L R +6 GRP OO +6 2 OO +6 OO GRP 3 4 OO +6 GRP GRP 4 OO +6 3 +6 1 2 GRP 3 OO GRP GRP 2 GRP +6 1 GRP 2 OO GRP 1 GRP EXT IN OO LEVEL +6 MU
Create IEM Mixes with Ambience MONITOR R OUT L MATRIX MATRIX EXT IN IN1 IN2 IN3 IN4 LAMP MIC OUT 16 (BREAKPOINT) ST4 EXT IN 4 EXT IN 3 EXT IN 2 EXT IN 1 MTX 4 MTX 3 MTX 2 MTX 1 INSERT R INSERT L INSERT 4 INSERT 3 INSERT 2 INSERT 1 AUX 6 AUX 5 AUX 4 AUX 3 AUX 2 AUX 1 MIC OUT 15 ST3 ST2 L/M L/M L/M R R R R MIC IN 16 MIC IN 15 GRP/AUX REVERSE R L AUX 5 GRP 4 GRP 3 AUX 4 GRP 2 GRP 1 AUX 3 AUX 2 ST1 L/M AUX 1 In Monitor mode the matrix continues to be fed wit
Aux-Fed Subs Driving the PA system sub bass speakers with their own mix has two main advantages. First, the mix is much cleaner because only sources that generate the low frequencies, for example kick drum, bass guitar and keyboards, are sent to the subs. Low frequency bleed from these sources into open microphones such as vocals and snare is eliminated from the PA much more effectively than using just the channel filters. Second, the sub bass amplifier is only working with the sources needed.
Using the channel Direct Outputs Default factory setting is pre-insert, pre-EQ, pre-fade so that your live fader mixing, effects and EQ do not affect the recording. Change this to post-EQ using internal jumpers if you prefer to use the EQ for source correction affecting the recording too. You could also patch DIR OUT into a matrix EXT IN to add a ‘more me’ channel into a monitor send created from the groups and LR. If preferred you can reconfigure the direct outputs to postfade by setting internal jumpers.
Specifications Performance Maximum input level Mic CH Line Other Line +34dBu (inc pad) +34dBu +20dBu Maximum output level XLR Jack Internal headroom Channels Mix Meters Sensitivity Master meters Channel meters 3 colour LED, quasi peak response 0VU = +4dBu at XLR output 12 segment -30 to +16dB 4 segment -12,0,+6+16dB (5dB before clip) Frequency response 20Hz to 50kHz Mic CMRR at 1kHz > 80dB typical THD+n at +14dBu 1kHz Channel to mix out < 0.
Connections Mono channel XLR balanced pin 2 hot TRS balanced, tip hot Pad out (MIC) Pad in (MIC or LINE) Max input level XLR phantom power Sensitivity -60 to +14dBu Sensitivity -40 to +14dBu 2k ohm >10k ohm, -20dB attenuation +34dBu +48V, on/off Stereo channel ST1,3 TRS unbalanced ST2,4 TRS balanced >10k ohm, -16 to +20dBu >10k ohm, -16 to +20dBu Talkback mic XLR balanced pin 2 hot Phantom power Sensitivity -50 to -10dBu Internal jumper +48V 2-track return TRS unbalanced >4k ohm, -2dBu 2-track s
AUX 1-6 GRP 1-4 LR PFL GL2400 SYS-LINK CONNECTION SL PHANTOM POWER 4 BAND EQUALISER METER AFL PFL 48V HF GRP/AUX REV GAIN MIC LINE/PAD POL -20dB 2= + BALANCED HM HPF + - PAN L-R 1-2 LM TIP= + FADER TIP= + GROUPS / AUX 1-4 3-4 LF TIP= SEND 0dBu AUX OUT +10dB boost AUX MIX LINE INSERT AUX SL MUTE EQ IN +4dBu BAL OPTION IMPEDANCE BALANCED -2dBu METER FADER POST-EQ RING= RETURN PRE-INSERT, PRE-EQ SL A INSERT PRE PRE AFL +10dB boost GRP MIX B GROUP OUT BAL MUTE
User Options The GL2400 has a versatile architecture which should satisfy most applications you may encounter without modification. However, the following internal options provide alternative settings for those applications that may demand them. Access is required to the internal assemblies. For user convenience, pluggable jumper links are used in most places. Do not adjust the user options while power is applied to the console. Do not remove or tamper with the internal power unit, its cover or wiring.
MONO CH - PRE-FADE AUX SENDS PREFADE SEL A=PRE EQ B A POST-EQ O/P D C DIR C=PRE PRE-INSERT, PRE-EQ Aux pre/post EQ Factory default for the mono channel pre-fade auxes is pre-insert, pre-EQ. This is popular with many users mixing monitors from FOH. It prevents the channel EQ and inserted compressors affecting the monitor mix. Move the jumper from A to B to change this to post-insert, post-EQ if preferred, for example when using corrective EQ affecting FOH and monitors.
Output balance options The aux and matrix MASTER L GROUP MASTER R MATRIX 1-4 BALANCE AUX 1-4 BALANCE outputs are impedance balanced as standard operating at nominal -2dBu and with +20dBu maximum drive. They provide similar interference rejection to electronically balanced outputs when connected to balanced equipment inputs. An electronically balanced option is available if you require nominal +4dBu and higher output drive up to +26dBu over very long cable runs.
Cue Sheet 1 of 3 Master Section GL2400 Copy and use this page to record your console settings.
Cue Sheet 2 of 3 8 Mono GL2400 Copy and use this page to record your console settings.
Cue Sheet 3 of 3 6 Mono, 2 Stereo GL2400 Copy and use this page to record your console settings.
