Ex 3200
Ex 3200
ENGLISH
Users Manual
Version 1.3 November 2001
ULTRAFEX® PRO
www.behringer.com
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
This symbol, wherever it appears, alerts This symbol, wherever it appears, alerts
you to the presence of uninsulated you to important operating and mainte-
dangerous voltage inside the enclosure nance instructions in the accompanying
voltage that may be sufficient to con- literature. Read the manual.
stitute a risk of shock.
FOREWORD
Dear Customer,
Welcome to the team of ULTRAFEX PRO users and thank you very much for expressing your confidence in
BEHRINGER products by purchasing this unit. It is one of my most pleasant tasks to write this letter to you,
because it is the culmination of many months of hard work delivered by our engineering team to reach a very
ambitious goal: making an outstanding device better still. The ULTRAFEX has for quite a long time been a
standard tool used by numerous studios and P.A. rental companies. The task to improve one of our
best-selling products certainly meant a great deal of responsibility, which we assumed by focusing on you, the
discerning user and musician. It also meant a lot of work and night shifts to accomplish this goal. But it was
fun, too. Developing a product usually brings a lot of people together, and what a great feeling it is when
everybody who participated in such a project can be proud of what weve achieved.
It is our philosophy to share our joy with you, because you are the most important member of the BEHRINGER
family. With your highly competent suggestions for new products youve greatly contributed to shaping our
company and making it successful. In return, we guarantee you uncompromising quality (manufactured under
ISO9000 certified management system) as well as excellent technical and audio properties at an extremely
favorable price. All of this will enable you to fully unfold your creativity without being hampered by budget
constraints.
We are often asked how we can make it to produce such high-grade devices at such unbelievably low prices.
The answer is quite simple: its you, our customers! Many satisfied customers means large sales volumes
enabling us to get better conditions of purchase for components, etc. Isnt it only fair to pass this benefit back
to you? Because we know that your success is our success, too!
I would like to thank all people whose help on Project ULTRAFEX PRO has made it all possible. Everybody
has made very personal contributions, starting from the designers of the unit via the many staff members in our
company to you, the user of BEHRINGER products.
Uli Behringer
ULTRAFEX PRO
Multiband sound enhancement processor
®
EX3200
s Gives your music that extra sparkle and makes your instruments or mixes stand out
s Releases untapped resources and details instruments, vocals and mixed program material
s VSP (Variable Sound Processing) circuit for simultaneous enhancer and exciter process
s Dual Mode ultra-bass enhancer produces soft and tight bass sounds
s Shift function allows you to control the frequency range of added bass punch
s Surround processor provides you real spatial enhancement and improved stereo imaging
s Built-in noise reduction system with precision LED display to provide clear visual indication of operation
s Ultra low-noise 4580 audio operational amplifiers for superior sound performance
s Relay controlled hard bypass with auto-bypass function during power failure (failsafe relay)
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. INTRODUCTION..................................................................................................................... 6
3. INSTALLATION ....................................................................................................................... 8
3.1 Rack mounting ................................................................................................................................ 8
3.2 Mains voltage .................................................................................................................................. 8
3.3 Audio connections .......................................................................................................................... 8
6. APPLICATIONS ..................................................................................................................... 15
6.1 Basic applications ......................................................................................................................... 15
6.1.1 The ULTRAFEX PRO as In Line processor ........................................................................ 15
6.1.2 The ULTRAFEX PRO as sidechain processor ................................................................... 16
6.2 Basic settings ............................................................................................................................... 16
6.3 Typical applications ....................................................................................................................... 17
6.3.1 Sound enhancement during replay ...................................................................................... 17
6.3.2 Sound enhancement during recording ................................................................................. 17
6.3.3 Enhancing the sound of subgroups, monitor and effects paths ............................................ 17
6.3.4 Enhancing the sound of tape duplication ............................................................................. 17
6.3.5 Enhancing the sound of instruments ................................................................................... 18
6.3.6 Enhancing the sound of P.A. systems ................................................................................ 18
6.3.7 Sound enhancement in Hi-Fi and video ............................................................................... 18
7. SPECIFICATIONS ................................................................................................................. 19
8. WARRANTY ........................................................................................................................... 20
1. INTRODUCTION
In purchasing the new ULTRAFEX PRO Model EX3200, you have acquired an extremely efficient and universal
sound enhancement processor. The sound precision and flexibility of the functions are the main outstanding
features of this high-end unit. The ULTRAFEX PRO is our state-of-the-art sound enhancement system offering
a special combination of sound improvement designs. The unit can be used wherever professional sound
improvement is required. The BEHRINGER ULTRAFEX PRO is the no-compromise answer when the situation
demands a no-compromise solution.
Advanced BEHRINGER technology
Since its announcement of the first ULTRAFEX model in year 1990, it has caused a sensation. This high-end
sound enhancement processor is based on our many years of experience and discoveries in the field of
psycho-acoustics. The ULTRAFEX PRO finds widespread application throughout the world, in renowned
studios, sound reinforcement systems as well as in broadcast and TV studios.
The task to improve our famous ULTRAFEX PRO II was a big challenge. We are very proud that we succeeded.
Compared to its predecessors, the ULTRAFEX PRO offers several advanced features and we have succeeded
in dramatically refining the audio qualities. The unit features now a Mode function which enables you to select
either a soft and warm bass sound or a super-tight bass. Beside that a new VSP (Variable Sound Processing)
circuitry has been added to allow you to use simultaneous exciter and enhancer sound processing.
Since the introduction of the first psycho-acoustic processors, technology in this field has made tremendous
progress. Although the fundamental principles of enhancer and exciter technology have been well-known for a
long time, engineers have been able to refine and improve the essential components over and over again. The
BEHRINGER company has also contributed considerably to this development:
With the introduction of our Natural Sonic processor, we have set new standards. Previously encountered
problems of restricted leveling range, plus increased noise level and audible distortion during signal
processing, are typical shortcomings of conventional circuit designs. They were completely solved by the
development of new circuitry.
Sophisticated manufacturing and quality assurance system
For the first time, the ULTRAFEX PRO EX3200 uses SMD technology (Surface Mounted Device). These
sub-miniature components known from aerospace technology allow for an extreme packing density, plus
improve the units reliability.
The BEHRINGER Natural Sonic processor: sound enhancement of classical and pop music
The BEHRINGER Natural Sonic principle is based on frequency-selective phase shifting in conjunction with
program-dependent equalization and pulse enlargement. An automatic and natural correction during signal
processing offers a quality of sound enhancement that has been almost inconceivable until now.
Program-dependent control permits the musical and unobtrusive transparency required for classical music
material, yet also provides the necessary brilliance for pop recordings. Owing to its dynamic control, and in
contrast with conventional units, the circuitry does NOT introduce any additional noise, non-related harmonics
or distortion.
The VSP (Variable Sound Processing) circuit
The new VSP (Variable Sound Processing) circuit used for the first time in the ULTRAFEX PRO, allows for
variably fading over from enhancer to exciter mode. Using the PROCESS control clockwise, the exciter circuit
comes in additionally to provide a variable and carefully adjusted processing of high frequencies. The result is
an increased brilliance and transparency. Fading over from one effect to the other can thus adapt the effects
perfectly to the respective program material.
Built-in noise reduction system
Due to physical reasons, exciters and enhancers principally increase noise of the processed program
material. Therefore, we have incorporated a switchable noise reduction system which is capable of
automatically fading out any additional noise.
Bass processor
The ULTRAFEX PRO is equipped with a separate bass processor which allows for sound enhancement in the
lower frequency band. A newly developed Dual Mode circuit allows you to vary between two different bass
sounds from soft to tight.
Processing the bass range means an optimum completion of high-frequency processing and opens up new
dimensions in the field of sound processing.
6 1. INTRODUCTION
Surround processor
A switchable surround processor has also been integrated into the ULTRAFEX PRO. With this processor the
intensity of the stereo effect can be dramatically improved. The program material gains in liveliness, depth and
transparency. As in a cinema with its special acoustics, the listener has the impression that the orchestral
instruments are placed all around him. The surround processor enlarges the stereo basis, dependent on the
program material, without audibly coloring the sonic image.
+ The following operational manual will introduce you to the BEHRINGER ULTRAFEX PRO and
its various functions. After reading the manual carefully, make sure it is always on hand for
future reference.
3. INSTALLATION
Your BEHRINGER ULTRAFEX PRO was carefully packed in the factory and the packaging was designed to
protect the unit from rough handling. Nevertheless, we recommend that you carefully examine the packaging
and ist contents for any signs of physical damage, which may have occurred in transit.
+ If the unit is damaged, please do not return it to us, but notify your dealer and the shipping
company immediately, otherwise claims for damage or replacement may not be granted.
Shipping claims must be made by the consignee.
+ Please make sure that all units have a proper ground connection. For your own safety, never
remove or disable the ground connector of the unit or of the AC power cable.
+ Please ensure that only qualified persons install and operate the ULTRAFEX PRO. During
installation and operation the user must have sufficient electrical contact to earth. Electro-
static charges might affect the operation of the ULTRAFEX PRO!
8 3. INSTALLATION
+ Never use unbalanced XLR connections with microphone cables, as this would short-circuit
any phantom power transmitted over these cables!
4. CONTROL ELEMENTS
The BEHRINGER ULTRAFEX PRO has two identical channels and provides 5 illuminated push-button
switches, 5 rotary controls, and 13 LEDs per channel.
4. CONTROL ELEMENTS 9
4 8
2 3 5 6 7 1
1 The IN/OUT switch activates the relay and puts the corresponding channel into operation. With the
switch in the OUT position, the unit is bypassed.
2 The AUTO NR switch (AUTO NOISE REDUCTION) activates the automatic noise reduction system. If
the switch is not depressed, the section is switched off and the unit operates with maximum effect.
3 The NR SENSITIVITY control adapts the sensitivity of the Natural Sonic processor to the input level of
the program material. The subsequent EFFECT meter helps you to adjust the NR SENSITIVITY control.
4 In conjunction with the NR SENSITIVITY control, these thirteen EFFECT meter LEDs provide correct
level indication for the unit. The LEDs display the amount of sound enhancement.
+ Please make sure, that the sensitivity of the unit is high enough especially at low-level signals.
Otherwise audible pumping may occur. The first LED should always be illuminated even at
low-level signals and should only go off when the music stops.
5 The TUNE control sets the lower cutoff frequency of the high-pass filter. Using this control you can
select the frequencies that are routed to the Natural Sonic processor. The cut-off frequency can be
adjusted within a range of 1 to 8 kHz.
6 The PROCESS control determines the function of the device. When turning the control in clockwise
direction, the exciter function is activated, which increases the signals transparency and sharpness.
Consequently, the ULTRAFEX PRO can be adapted to the program material, to suit the application on
hand as well as any personal sound preferences.
+ Please note that with classical program material, acoustic instruments or with output signals
that already include sufficient treble frequencies, the enhancer setting should be preferred.
However, when processing, for instance, a slapped bass guitar, it is the exciter setting
which should dominate.
7 The HIGH MIX control of the high band determines the amount of signal used for sound enhancement
(from zero to six). It would depend on the application as to whether a high-quality system is to be given
the finishing touch with the ULTRAFEX PRO, or whether maximum intelligibility is to be achieved in a
relatively poor sound reinforcement system.
8 When the SOLO switch is depressed, the unit operates in solo mode and separates the pure effect
signal from the main signal. Thus, the BEHRINGER ULTRAFEX PRO may be used as a sidechain
processor (see chapter 6.1.2).
+ Please note that pre-monitoring of the solo signal will only allow for a rather restricted
evaluation of the sound, since this signal only provides sound enhancement if it is combined
with the original signal.
10 4. CONTROL ELEMENTS
9 10 11
9 The SHIFT switch determines the cut-off frequency of the bass processor. Depending on the program
material, you can select between Low and Ultra-low.
10 The LOW MIX control of the low band determines the amount of signal used for sound enhancement
(from zero to six). The setting depends on the application you are addressing.
11 With the MODE switch you can define the sound effect of the bass processor. If the switch is on (Tight)
the bass will sound dry and punchy, whereas the released switch mode (Soft) creates a warm and
full bass.
+ Please note that the bass processor should be set carefully to avoid possible speaker damage.
Most near-field monitors are not capable of handling the bass produced by the ULTRAFEX PRO.
12 13
12 With the SURROUND switch you can activate the surround section. Please note that this switch has to
be released if you want to process two separate input signals. Otherwise there will be undesired
cross-talk between the two channels.
13 The SURROUND control determines the effect of the surround processor. This function serves to
improve the intensity of the stereo effect and to enlarge the stereo basis dependent on the program
content. Therefore, this function can only be used in conjunction with stereo program material.
4. CONTROL ELEMENTS 11
15 14
16 18 17
14 SERIAL NUMBER. Please take the time to have the warranty card filled out completely and return it
within 14 days after the date of purchase, so as to be entitled to benefit from our extended warranty. Or
use our online registration option available on the World Wide Web under www.behringer.com.
15 FUSE HOLDER / VOLTAGE SELECTOR. Please make sure that your local voltage matches the
voltage indicated on the unit, before you attempt to connect and operate the ULTRAFEX PRO. Blown
fuses may only be replaced by fuses of the same type and rating.
16 MAINS CONNECTION. Use the enclosed power cord to connect the unit to the mains. Please also note
the instructions given in chapter 3 INSTALLATION.
17 AUDIO IN. These are the audio inputs of your ULTRAFEX PRO, available both as balanced 1/4" TRS
and XLR connectors.
18 AUDIO OUT. These are the balanced audio outputs of your ULTRAFEX PRO. Matching 1/4" TRS and
XLR connectors are wired in parallel. These outputs can be transformer-balanced by retrofitting the
optional output transformer OT-1.
5. TECHNICAL BACKGROUND
12 5. TECHNICAL BACKGROUND
5. TECHNICAL BACKGROUND 13
+ Be extremely careful when using the bass processor: excessive use of the bass processor
might lead to speaker damage. The amplified sub-bass frequencies may well place a heavy
load on the amplifier and the woofers. Therefore, carefully adjust the bass processor and
observe the power rating of your system!
14 5. TECHNICAL BACKGROUND
6. APPLICATIONS
6. APPLICATIONS 15
Within a sidechain scenario, the original signal must be muted by depressing the SOLO switch, so that
phase cancellations (comb filter effects) and additional noise will be effectively avoided.
Pre-monitoring of the solo signal will only allow for a rather restricted evaluation of the sound, since this signal
only provides sound enhancement if combined with the original signal.
+ Please note that the NR SENSITIVITY control does NOT have the same effect as the DRIVE
control on other exciters. This control is not effecting the Natural Sonic processor, but
controlling the filter circuit which is responsible for noise-reduction. Excessively high
sensitivity will not produce audible distortion, however, the noise level might increase during
signal pauses.
16 6. APPLICATIONS
When using enhancers or exciters it is easy to get carried away. Therefore, we recommend regular A/B
comparisons (IN/OUT) while setting the controls, in order to constantly check the signals integrity.
Rule of thumb: the enhancers effect only should be noticeable when it is lacking, but not when it is
present!
Listening at high volume levels over long periods (in studios, for example) leads to listening fatigue and thus
reduces sensitivity to higher frequencies. Regular pauses keep your hearing healthy and exaggerated sound
processing should be avoided.
6. APPLICATIONS 17
With the BEHRINGER ULTRAFEX PRO, losses during tape duplication can be avoided or compensated for.
Provided that the original is of good enough quality with only low noise levels. It is even possible to produce
super copies which sound even better than the original. For this purpose, the BEHRINGER ULTRAFEX PRO
is inserted between the line outputs of the source machine and the inputs of the target machine. Machines with
post-head listening control (setting tape) allow you to check the quality of the copy while duplicating the tape.
+ If the tape noise is fairly high, a different strategy is required, since the BEHRINGER
ULTRAFEX PRO can effectively process the frequency ranges in which the most predominant
noise portions can be found. We recommend attenuation of noisy high frequencies, either
with an equalizer orbetter stillwith a single-ended noise reduction system. The
BEHRINGER ULTRAFEX PRO will process those frequencies with all their natural claritybut
without the tape noise.
18 6. APPLICATIONS
7. SPECIFICATIONS
AUDIO INPUT
Connectors XLR and 1/4" TRS
Type RF filtered, servo balanced input
Impedance 50 kOhms balanced, 25 kOhm unbalanced
Max. Input Level +21 dBu balanced and unbalanced (unity gain)
CMRR typ. 40 dB, >55 dB @ 1 kHz
AUDIO OUTPUT
Connectors XLR and 1/4" TRS
Type Electronically servo-balanced output stage (optional transformer-balanced).
Automatic level correction for unbalanced use (6 dB).
Impedance 60 Ohms balanced, 30 Ohm unbalanced
Max. Output Level +21 dBu, +20 dBm balanced and unbalanced
SYSTEM SPECIFICATIONS
Bandwidth 20 Hz to 20 kHz, +0/-0.5 dB
Frequency Response 0.35 Hz to 200 kHz, +0/-3 dB
Noise >-95 dBu, unweighted, 22 Hz to 22 kHz
THD 0.008 % typ. @ +4 dBu, 1 kHz, Gain 1
0.04 % typ. @ +20 dBu, 1 kHz, Gain 1
IMD 0.01 % typ. SMPTE
Crosstalk <-100 dB, 22 Hz to 22 kHz
BASS PROCESSOR
Type Dual Mode Bass Processor
Low Mix variable (0 to 6)
MULTIBAND PROCESSOR
Type Natural Sonic processor with VSP (Variable Sound Processing)
NR Sensitivity variable (0 to 6)
Tune variable (1 to 8 kHz)
Process variable (Enhancer to Exciter)
High Mix variable (0 to 6)
SURROUND SECTION
Surround variable (0 to 6)
FUNCTION SWITCHES AND CONTROLS
Shift Switches the frequency of the Bass Processor between Low and
Ultra-Low
Mode Switches the bass sound from Soft to Tight
Auto NR Activates the noise reduction system
In/Out Activates the relay controlled hard-bypass
Solo Monitors the pure effect signal (Solo function)
Surround Activates the surround processor
INDICATORS
Effect 13 LED meter indicates the effect
Function switch LED indiactor for each function switch
POWER SUPPLY
Mains voltages USA/Canada 120 V ~, 60 Hz
U.K./Australia 240 V ~, 50 Hz
Europe 230 V ~, 50 Hz
General Export Model 100 - 120 V ~, 200 - 240 V ~, 50 - 60 Hz
Fuse 100 - 120 V ~: T 250 mA H
200 - 240 V ~: T 125 mA H
Power consumption max. 16 Watts
Mains connection standard IEC receptacle
PHYSICAL
Dimensions (H x W x D) 1 3/4" (44.5 mm) x 19" (482.6 mm) x 8 1/2" (217 mm)
Net Weight approx. 2.2 kg
Shipping Weight approx. 3.4 kg
BEHRINGER is constantly striving to maintain the highest professional standards. As a result of these efforts, modifications may be
made from time to time to existing products without prior notice. Specifications and appearance may differ from those listed or
shown.
7. SPECIFICATIONS 19
8. WARRANTY
2. If the warranty claim proves to be justified, the product will be 6. If an inspection of the product by BEHRINGER shows that the
returned to the user freight prepaid. defect in question is not covered by the warranty, the inspection
costs are payable by the customer.
3. Warranty claims other than those indicated above are ex-
pressly excluded. 7. Products which do not meet the terms of this warranty will be
repaired exclusively at the buyers expense. BEHRINGER will
§ 3 RETURN AUTHORIZATION NUMBER inform the buyer of any such circumstance. If the buyer fails to
1. To obtain warranty service, the buyer (or his authorized dealer) submit a written repair order within 6 weeks after notification,
must call BEHRINGER (see enclosed list) during normal business BEHRINGER will return the unit C.O.D. with a separate invoice
hours BEFORE returning the product. All inquiries must be ac- for freight and packing. Such costs will also be invoiced sepa-
companied by a description of the problem. BEHRINGER will then rately when the buyer has sent in a written repair order.
issue a return authorization number. § 5 WARRANTY TRANSFERABILITY
2. Subsequently, the product must be returned in its original This warranty is extended exclusively to the original buyer (cus-
shipping carton, together with the return authorization number to tomer of retail dealer) and is not transferable to anyone who
the address indicated by BEHRINGER. may subsequently purchase this product. No other person (re-
3. Shipments without freight prepaid will not be accepted. tail dealer, etc.) shall be entitled to give any warranty promise on
behalf of BEHRINGER.
§ 4 WARRANTY REGULATIONS
§ 6 CLAIM FOR DAMAGES
1. Warranty services will be furnished only if the product is
accompanied by a copy of the original retail dealers invoice. Failure of BEHRINGER to provide proper warranty service shall
Any product deemed eligible for repair or replacement by not entitle the buyer to claim (consequential) damages. In no
BEHRINGER under the terms of this warranty will be repaired or event shall the liability of BEHRINGER exceed the invoiced value
replaced within 30 days of receipt of the product at BEHRINGER. of the product.
2. If the product needs to be modified or adapted in order to § 7 OTHER WARRANTY RIGHTS AND NATIONAL LAW
comply with applicable technical or safety standards on a na- 1. This warranty does not exclude or limit the buyers statutory
tional or local level, in any country which is not the country for rights provided by national law, in particular, any such rights
which the product was originally developed and manufactured, against the seller that arise from a legally effective purchase
this modification/adaptation shall not be considered a defect in contract.
materials or workmanship. The warranty does not cover any
such modification/adaptation, irrespective of whether it was 2. The warranty regulations mentioned herein are applicable
carried out properly or not. Under the terms of this warranty, unless they constitute an infringement of national warranty law.
BEHRINGER shall not be held responsible for any cost resulting
from such a modification/adaptation.
The information contained in this manual is subject to change without notice. No part of this manual may be reproduced or
transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying and recording of any kind, for any
purpose, without the express written permission of BEHRINGER Spezielle Studiotechnik GmbH.
BEHRINGER and ULTRAFEX are registered trademarks. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
© 2001 BEHRINGER Spezielle Studiotechnik GmbH.
BEHRINGER Spezielle Studiotechnik GmbH, Hanns-Martin-Schleyer-Str. 36-38, 47877 Willich-Münchheide II, Germany
Tel. +49 (0) 21 54 / 92 06-0, Fax +49 (0) 21 54 / 92 06-30
20 8. WARRANTY