• Registered: 2012-08-04
  • Posts: 4

Topic: How should I connect powered studio monitors to the UFX

Hi,

Are there preferred outputs to use when connecting powered studio monitors.

Should I use the TRS outputs 7 and 8 or the XLR outputs 1 and 2?

The inputs on the speakers are 1/4 jack. If i use the XLR outputs I would need new cables to go from the XLR outputs into the monitors.

I don't need to conserve the TRS outputs, there are plenty for my needs.

Any best practices? Or does it really matter?

Thanks

  • Registered: 2012-08-06
  • Posts: 4

Re: How should I connect powered studio monitors to the UFX

Hi New Member, I use the XLR outputs 1 and 2 on the rear into rca jacks (substitute for your 1/4 inch jacks), and the manual shows how to make the connections, using pin 1 earth, pin 2 signal and pin 3 not connected. I soldered up my own cables. If your monitor 1/4 inch jacks are balanced, then use a tip ring and sleeve jack with the 3 wire connections to XLR (balanced).
From the manual.... The electronic driver circuit of the XLR outputs does not operate servo-balanced! When
connecting unbalanced equipment, make sure pin 3 of the XLR output is not connected. A
connection to ground will cause higher THD (distortion)!
I hope this helps, Russell.

  • Registered: 2012-08-04
  • Posts: 4

Re: How should I connect powered studio monitors to the UFX

Thanks Russell,

Yes I believe that helps. I have the Event 20/20 BAS (Biamplified Monitor System). These are the original ones so probably 15 years old. The System block diagram on the back of the monitors says the inputs are balanced. I know see that the monitor can take either TRS or XLR male.

So it seems I can either use an XLR cable male to female or use a TRS to TSR. I'll probably go with the former. Thanks, I can't wait for the UFX to arrive!

  • Registered: 2012-08-04
  • Posts: 4

Re: How should I connect powered studio monitors to the UFX

I'm back. Is a XLR microphone cable suitable for connecting a speaker?

Is what is called a 'XLR Powered-Speaker Cable' simply a snake with an xlr cable combined with a power cable?

I'm clearly a newbie when it comes to using an xlr cable with anything but a microphone...

  • From: Melbourne, Australia
  • Registered: 2007-05-16
  • Posts: 495

Re: How should I connect powered studio monitors to the UFX

Because a powered speaker uses a line level audio input to feed its internal amplifier, rather than taking power from an external amplifier, then anything that can be used for line-level signals is OK.  So any of your signal leads with the correct connectors on it should be fine, except it is wise to stick to balanced connections (XLR or TRS) and avoid unbalanced like T-S jacks.

And for connecting powered speakers which usually only need a small amount of signal for normal listening levels, rather than turning down the output levels on your audio device which can lead to a decrease in the dynamic range that the audio device provides, I always recommend using a small passive monitor controller between the audio device and the speakers. 

This allows your device to run the line level out at 'normal' levels, and gives you a very handy way of setting the level.  A passive device will not change the character of the sound, and the controller also has a convenient mute button (handy for protecting your ears and the speakers in emergencies), and can also be helpful in preventing inadvertent loud noises when connecting the speakers to different devices (operate the mute switch before plugging and unplugging).

Search SMPro nanoPatch for an example of what I am talking about.

De gustibus - et sonus - non est disputandum