MCD 2 Pro - Hi-fi system SAMSON - Free user manual and instructions

Product Type	Passive Stereo Direct Box (DI box)
Brand	Samson
Model	MCD 2 Pro
Power	Passive, no power required
Frequency Response	18 Hz to 40 kHz ±0.1 dB
Maximum Input	+20 dB (0.35% THD)
Dynamic Range	>100 dB @ balanced output
Noise Floor	-117 dB
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD)	<0.03% from 20 Hz to 40 kHz
Input Impedance	400 kΩ (stereo), 10 kΩ (mono)
Output Impedance	250 Ω ±20%
Transformers	Two STLX Faraday shielded transformers
Transformer Ratio	15:1
Input Connectors	6.35 mm (hi-Z), RCA, 3.17 mm stereo (unbalanced)
Output Connectors	Balanced XLR male
Switches	-12 dB pad, Stereo/Mono, Ground Lift
Construction	14-gauge steel chassis
Main Functions	Unbalanced to balanced conversion, long distances without loss, common-mode rejection, input paralleling
Care and Cleaning	Clean with a dry, soft cloth. Avoid moisture and liquids.
Safety	Do not expose to moisture or extreme temperatures. Disconnect cables before handling.
Spare Parts and Repairability	Contact Samson (USA: 1-800-3SAMSON) or local distributor for an RA number before any return.
General Information	Live and studio use, compatible with instruments, computers, CD/MP3 players, keyboards, DJ equipment.

Frequently Asked Questions - MCD 2 Pro SAMSON

How do I connect an instrument or audio source to the MCD 2 Pro?

Use the 6.35 mm jack, RCA, or 3.17 mm stereo inputs. Start by setting your audio system volume to zero, then connect your source outputs to the MCD 2 Pro inputs. Connect the balanced XLR outputs to a mixer or audio system.

What is the Ground Lift switch for?

The Ground Lift switch disconnects the ground (pin 1 of XLR). It eliminates hums or buzzes caused by ground loops. Switch it to LIFT if you hear unwanted background noise.

When should I use the -12 dB attenuation (Pad) switch?

Use the PAD -12 dB switch if you hear input distortion, especially with high-level signals like console or player outputs. This reduces the input level by 12 dB to avoid saturation.

What is the difference between Stereo and Mono modes?

In Stereo mode, each input (left and right) is sent to its corresponding XLR output. In Mono mode, the left and right input signals are summed and sent to both XLR outputs, saving mixer channels.

Can I use the MCD 2 Pro with a laptop?

Yes, connect your computer's headphone or line output via the 3.17 mm stereo jack input. Connect the XLR outputs to your audio system. Use the -12 dB pad if the signal is too hot.

Does the MCD 2 Pro require power?

No, the MCD 2 Pro is a passive direct box. It requires no batteries or external power. It uses STLX Faraday shielded transformers to operate.

How can I avoid interference and noise?

Use good quality cables, keep audio cables away from power cables, and activate the Ground Lift if necessary. The balanced XLR output provides common-mode rejection that reduces interference.

What type of transformer is built in?

The MCD 2 Pro features two STLX Faraday shielded transformers with a 15:1 ratio. They provide extended frequency response, low distortion, and eliminate hum and RF interference.

Can I connect monitor speakers directly to the unit?

Yes, the 6.35 mm jack inputs are wired in parallel. You can connect active monitor speakers to these jacks while sending the signal to the XLR outputs for the main PA.

What if the manual is not available in my language?

Go to notice-facile.com, select your language and email. They will send you a translated version of the MCD 2 Pro manual.

USER MANUAL MCD 2 Pro SAMSON

MCD2 PRO Stereo Direct Passive PC Box

SAMSON MCD2 PRO Stereo Direct Passive PC Box4 Left INPUTS EXEMED INPUT HEAD INPUTS LEFT INPUTS LEFT INPUTS LEFT INPUTS HEAD INPUTS HEAD INPUTS OFF OFF

Quick Start Guide

If you want to dispose this product, do not mix it with general household waste. There is a separate collection system for used electronic products in accordance with legislation that requires proper treatment, recovery and recycling.

Private household in the 28 member states of the EU, in Switzerland and Norway may return their used electronic products free of charge to designated collection facilities or to a retailer (if you purchase a similar new one).

For Countries not mentioned above, please contact your local authorities for a correct method of disposal.

By doing so you will ensure that your disposed product undergoes the necessary treatment, recovery and recycling and thus prevent potential negative effects on the environment and human health.

Copyright 2016, Samson Technologies Corp.

v2

Samson Technologies Corp.

45 Gilpin Avenue

Hauppauge, New York 11788-8816

Phone: 1-800-3-SAMSON (1-800-372-6766)

Fax: [phone]

www.samsontech.com

Introduction

A direct insertion box, or DI box, converts unbalanced high impedance signals to balanced low impedance signals. This provides the facility to run long cables without deterioration of the signal, as well as connecting audio signals to a mixer's microphone input.

Samson's S-Max Direct Boxes combines premium sound circuitry with durable, roadworthy construction to provide high-quality signal connection solutions for live and studio applications. The Samson MCD2 Pro Professional Stereo Passive Direct Box offers a variety of DI solutions for live sound and recording applications. You can connect all kinds of audio signals like those from computers, CD/MP3 players, keyboards, and DJ equipment.

Featuring two of Samson's STLX Faraday shielded transformer, which deliver an extended, flat frequency response, ultra-low distortion, and eliminates hum and RF interference. The MCD2 Pro balanced output provide a clean signal, that is less susceptible to noise when compared to an unbalanced cable, which allows for running longer lengths of cables. Another benefit from a balanced connection is CMR (Common Mode Rejection), which provides cancellation of interference (hums and buzzes), while leaving the original signal pure.

The input jacks are wired in parallel which enables you to tap off the signal from the input and pass the signal to an amplifier or monitor without affecting the original sound. The Stereo/Mono switch mixes the two input channels together for situations where the number of audio channels is at a premium.

With proper care and maintenance, your MCD2 Pro will operate trouble-free for many years. Should your direct box ever require servicing, a Return Authorization (RA) number must be obtained before shipping your unit to Samson. Without this number, the unit will not be accepted. Please call Samson at 1-800-3SAMSON (1-800-372-6766) for an RA number prior to shipping your unit. If your direct box was purchased outside of the United States, contact your local distributor for warranty details and service information.

Callouts

12 124 576 LEFT INPUTS STUDIO INPUT RIGHT INPUTS O-08 -1.00

Front Rear

STRIKED FRONT GROUND LIGHT MOND BALANCING OUTPUT LIGHT BALANCING OUTPUT

1. 1/4" INPUT Jacks – 1/4" hi-Z input jacks for connecting for instruments or line level signals.
2. RCA Input Jacks – Unbalanced RCA jacks for connecting line level signals. The RCA jacks are wired in parallel with the 1/4" and STEREO INPUT jacks.
3. STEREO INPUT Jack – 1/8" stereo input jack for connecting line level signals. The STEREO INPUT jack is wired in parallel with the 1/4" and RCA jacks.
4. -12dB Pad switch – When engaged, the input level is attenuated by -12dB to prevent distortion when connecting high level signals.
5. STEREO/MONO Switch – When the switch is in the STEREO position, each input is routed to its corresponding output. In the MONO position, the Left and Right input signals are summed together and fed to both Left and Right Output jacks.
6. BALANCED OUTPUT Jacks – Male XLR low-Z connectors.
7. GROUND LIFT Switch – When the switch is engaged, the input ground (shield) is disconnected.

Setup

The MCD2 Pro can be quite useful on stage or in the studio for connecting unbalanced audio sources or instruments with pickups. By utilizing the MCD2 Pro, the signal can be sent cleanly for long distances while benefiting from the low noise and common mode rejection provided by the balanced low-level output. The diagram following shows a typical hook-up for a DJ Controller/Interface connected to a PA system.

graph TD
    A["Input: Radioform"] --> B["RAMRON"]
    C["Input: Radioform"] --> B
    B --> D["Output: Speaker"]
    D --> E["Output: Speaker"]
    B --> F["Signal Flow"]
    B --> G["Signal Flow"]
    B --> H["Signal Flow"]
    B --> I["Signal Flow"]
    style B fill:#f9f,stroke:#333
    style D fill:#ccf,stroke:#333
    style E fill:#cfc,stroke:#333
    style F fill:#fcc,stroke:#333
    style G fill:#cff,stroke:#333
    style H fill:#ffc,stroke:#333
    style I fill:#fcc,stroke:#333

• Set the volume controls of your audio system to the off position.
• Connect the stereo outputs of your DJ Controller/Interface or other audio source to the Left and Right Input jacks of the MCD2 Pro.
• Connect the Left and Right BALANCED OUTPUT jacks to a pair of microphone inputs of a mixer or other audio device.
• Pan the input channels of the mixer left and right.
• Raise the level of the audio system to the appropriate level.
• If you hear a hum or buzz set the GROUND LIFT switch to the LIFT position.
• If you hear distortion, set the pad switch to the -12dB position. You may need to adjust the input level of the mixer to make up for the attenuated signal.

Connecting a Laptop

graph TD
    A["Laptop"] -->|12.5mm/70Hz| B["MCD Chip"]
    C["Speaker"] -->|3.5mm/60Hz| B
    D["Audio System"] -->|3.5mm/60Hz| B
    B -->|Signal Flow| E["Speaker"]
    E -->|Signal Flow| F["Audio System"]
    B -->|Signal Flow| G["Speaker"]
    G -->|Signal Flow| H["Speaker"]

• Set the volume controls of your audio system to the off position.
• Connect the 1/8" stereo output of your laptop or other audio source to the STEREO Input jack of the MCD2 Pro.
• Connect the 1/4" parallel jacks to active monitor speakers.
• Connect the Left and Right BALANCED OUTPUT jacks to a pair of microphone inputs of a mixer or other audio device.
• Pan the input channels of the mixer left and right.
• Raise the level of the audio system to the appropriate level.
• If you hear a hum or buzz set the GROUND LIFT switch to the LIFT position.
• If you hear distortion, set the pad switch to the -12dB position. You may need to adjust the input level of the mixer to make up for the attenuated signal.

Specifications

Type Stereo Passive Direct Box

Frequency Response 18Hz to 40kHz ±0.1dB

Maximum Input +20dBu 0.35% THD

Dynamic Range >100dB @ Balanced Output

Noise Floor -117dB

Total harmonic distortion <0.03% from 20Hz to 40kHz

Input impedance 400kΩ (Stereo Switch Position)

10k (Mono Switch Position)

Output Impedance 250Ω ±20%

Transformers Two STLX Faraday Shielded Transformers

Transformer Ratio 15:1

Input PAD Switch 0dB, -12dB

Ground Lift Switch Disconnects XLR pin-1 (Output)

Stereo/Mono Switch Sums stereo inputs to both outputs

Connectors 1/4" Phone Jack, RCA, Stereo 1/8"

unbalanced

XLR balanced (Output)

Construction 14 gauge steel chassis

Dimensions 6.1" x 3.93" x 1.77"

155mm x 100mm x 45mm

Weight 2.11lb

957g

Block Diagram

graph LR
    A["1/4" In"] --> B["Pad"]
    C["RCA In"] --> D["Pad"]
    E["1/8" In"] --> F["Pad"]
    G["1/4" In"] --> H["Pad"]
    I["RCA In"] --> J["Pad"]
    B --> K["0dB"]
    D --> L["-12dB"]
    F --> M["0dB"]
    H --> N["-12dB"]
    K --> O["Transformer"]
    L --> O
    M --> O
    N --> O
    O --> P["Faraday Shielded"]
    P --> Q["Stereo/Mono SW"]
    Q --> R["Balanced Output"]
    R --> S["Ground Lift"]
    S --> T["Balanced Output"]
    T --> U["Ground Lift"]
    U --> V["Ground Lift"]
    V --> W["Ground Lift"]
    W --> X["Balanced Output"]
    X --> Y["Balanced Output"]

Dimensions 6.1" x 3.93" x 1.77"

155 mm × 100 mm × 45 mm

Poids 2.11lb

957 g

Schéma fonctionnel

graph LR
    A["1/4" In"] --> B["Pad 0dB"]
    C["RCA In"] --> D["Pad 0dB"]
    E["1/8" In"] --> F["Pad 0dB"]
    G["1/4" In"] --> H["Pad 0dB"]
    I["RCA In"] --> J["Pad 0dB"]
    B --> K["-12dB"]
    D --> L["-12dB"]
    F --> M["-12dB"]
    H --> N["-12dB"]
    K --> O["Transformer Faraday Shielded"]
    L --> P["Transformer Faraday Shielded"]
    O --> Q["Stereo/Mono SW"]
    P --> Q
    Q --> R["Balanced Output"]
    R --> S["Ground Lift"]
    S --> T["Balanced Output"]
    T --> U["Ground Lift"]
    U --> V["Ground Lift"]
    style A fill:#f9f,stroke:#333
    style C fill:#f9f,stroke:#333
    style E fill:#f9f,stroke:#333
    style G fill:#f9f,stroke:#333
    style I fill:#f9f,stroke:#333
    style Q fill:#ccf,stroke:#333
    style R fill:#ccf,stroke:#333
    style S fill:#ccf,stroke:#333
    style T fill:#ccf,stroke:#333

graph LR
    A["1/4" In"] --> B["Pad"]
    C["RCA In"] --> D["Pad"]
    E["1/8" In"] --> F["Pad"]
    G["1/4" In"] --> H["Pad"]
    I["RCA In"] --> J["Pad"]
    B --> K["0dB"]
    D --> L["-12dB"]
    J --> M["0dB"]
    J --> N["-12dB"]
    K --> O["Transformer"]
    L --> O
    M --> P["Faraday Shielded"]
    N --> P
    O --> Q["+"]
    P --> R["Stereo/Mono SW"]
    Q --> S["Balanced Output"]
    R --> T["Balanced Output"]
    U["Balanced Output"] --> V["Ground Lift"]
    W["Balanced Output"] --> X["Ground Lift"]
    Y["Balanced Output"] --> Z["Ground Lift"]

155mm x 100mm x 45mm

Peso 2,11lb

957g

Diagrama de bloques

graph LR
    A["1/4" In"] --> B["Pad"]
    C["RCA In"] --> D["Pad"]
    E["1/8" In"] --> F["Pad"]
    G["1/4" In"] --> H["Pad"]
    I["RCA In"] --> J["Pad"]
    B --> K["0dB"]
    D --> L["-12dB"]
    J --> M["0dB"]
    J --> N["-12dB"]
    K --> O["Transformer"]
    L --> O
    M --> P["Faraday Shielded"]
    N --> P
    O --> Q["+"]
    P --> R["Stereo/Mono SW"]
    Q --> S["Balanced Output"]
    R --> T["Balanced Output"]
    U["Balanced Output"] --> V["Ground Lift"]
    W["Balanced Output"] --> X["Ground Lift"]
    Y["Balanced Output"] --> Z["Ground Lift"]