You use TRS or TS cables for Instrument input?

The manual says TRS is not allowed for instrument., that's why I asked. I still can't believe that both inputs fail due to a defect in their TRS socket. I would expect the cables to have a strange TS shape or something like that. Can you try other  cables, different models?

Ah, I see, thanks.

The manual is a bit confusing to me regarding TS vs. TRS on the 3/4 LINE/INSTR inputs. On page 41 it states:

"Inputs 3/4 have balanced line inputs as 1/4" TRS jacks. The electronic input stage is built in a servo balanced design which handles unbalanced (mono jacks) and balanced (stereo jacks) correctly, automatically adjusting the level reference.
Inputs 3/4 operate in perfect harmony with the rear inputs 5 to 8, as they are identical in all technical specifications.
The instrument input operates unbalanced. Please don’t use (stereo) TRS jacks in that mode."

Does the above mean the inputs are acting as balanced and should accept TRS, like the other inputs on the UCX? When Instr is selected in Total Mix, does that mean the inputs become unbalanced and you need to use TS cables?

I've been using the 3/4 inputs as stereo at +13dBu. I do not have the Instr box selected in Total Mix (though it doesn't change the issue I'm having when it's selected.)

I have two other older mismatched instrument cables, and they both seem to work fine with the 3/4 ins on the UCX!

I don't understand why these cables don't work on the UCX II 3/4 LINE/INSTR, but they work perfectly on every other input on the UCX II and the Babyface Pro FS.

Unfortunately, all my cables are these Amphenol cables, which I believe to be a very reputable brand. I've never had issues with them with any other device over several years.

Is there something mechanically or electronically different about the 3/4 ins on the UCX II? Or is anything else I'm missing about the cables? I want to make sure I get cables that work with these inputs.

Visually they look similar to the other two working cables, as you can see in the attached photo. (The problem cable is the gold-colored Amphenol brand cable on the right)

Thanks!

https://tinyurl.com/25dwaj36

Hard to say as even though they look the same there might be small differences. The cable I plug into a drum trigger looked the same but I had the shave a thin slither off the plastic (you can’t as yours are not plastic) to get it to work.

Photo of Totalmix setting would be helpful.
How is the input gain ? Have you opened it ?
you use a Synth on these inputs with input setting +13dBu, is your synth really that loud ?

The problem is, you say the issue is on both input sockets. It is very unlikely to have both of them broke at the same time, that's why no one suggest to bring the unit to service.

The plugs of your cables would also be happy to get cleaned...

With open gain I mean to give more gain, but it is not needed here, you have a strong signal and everything looks fine to me.
For buying new cables you may ask the seller for refund option in case the cable don't work...
Most online stores let you send back and offer replacement or refund.
Or even better take the interface to the store and let the seller test some cables before buy.

if they work when you jiggle them its prob not something in Totalmix.

have you tried pulling the plug out of the jack just a tiny bit? I was able to make my non-spec cable work by pulling it out slightly.

pops

Thanks popsicle,

Can you recommend any brands you know work with your UCX II 3/4 ins?