21597
ms
250
dB
0
80
ACTIVE BYPASS
DEPTH
20
60
n:1
INT
8
6
ms
500
Hz
315
5k
1.25k
NORMAL LISTEN
LOW-CUT
20
80
1
20k
6.3k
3
2
MASTER
GATE DUCK EXP
HIGH-CUT
Hz
2k
Sec
.5
HOLD
200
630
0
.25
12 OL
2 Sec
6
RELEASE
25
125
3
250
OPEN
1
SIDE-CHAIN
EXT
RATIO
1
2
4
0
100
40
20
25
ATTACK
dBu
10
-1 TH
THRESHOLD
-60
-50
50
-3
LINK
2
dBu
20
10
dB
40
0
20
ACTIVE BYPASS
DEPTH
80
60
THRESHOLD
-60
-50
ms
50
250
100
n:1
4
INT
8
6
2 Sec
Hz
315
5k
1.25k
NORMAL LISTEN
20k
6.3k
3
2
GATE DUCK EXP
HIGH-CUT
Hz
2k
Sec
.5
HOLD
200
630
0
.25
12 OL
500
LOW-CUT
20
80
SIDE-CHAIN
EXT
RATIO
1
2
ms
6
RELEASE
25
3
250
OPEN
1
125
-1 TH
SIDE-CHAIN dBr
-3
ATTACK
0
25
-24 -12 -6
-30 -20 -10
-40
0
CLOSED
SLAVE
dBu
20
10
dB
40
0
20
ACTIVE BYPASS
DEPTH
80
60
THRESHOLD
-60
-50
-30 -20 -10
-40
0
CLOSED
ms
50
250
100
n:1
4
INT
8
6
2 Sec
Hz
315
5k
1.25k
NORMAL LISTEN
3
20k
6.3k
3
2
MASTER
GATE DUCK EXP
HIGH-CUT
Hz
2k
Sec
.5
HOLD
200
630
0
.25
12 OL
500
LOW-CUT
20
80
SIDE-CHAIN
EXT
RATIO
1
2
ms
6
RELEASE
25
3
250
OPEN
1
125
-1 TH
SIDE-CHAIN dBr
-3
ATTACK
0
25
-24 -12 -6
LINK
4
dBu
20
10
dB
40
0
20
ACTIVE BYPASS
DEPTH
80
60
THRESHOLD
-60
-50
ms
50
250
100
n:1
4
INT
8
6
3
ms
250
500
Hz
315
5k
1.25k
NORMAL LISTEN
LOW-CUT
20
80
20k
6.3k
3
2
GATE DUCK EXP
HIGH-CUT
Hz
2k
Sec
.5
HOLD
200
630
0
.25
12 OL
2 Sec
6
RELEASE
25
SIDE-CHAIN
EXT
RATIO
1
2
1
OPEN
125
-1 TH
SIDE-CHAIN dBr
-3
ATTACK
0
25
-24 -12 -6
-30 -20 -10
-40
0
CLOSED
SLAVE
POWER
G4
QUAD GATE
GATE
-30 -20 -10
-40
0
CLOSED
Important Safety Instructions
G4 Manual
G4 Control Template
G4 Data Sheet
Sound System Interconnection
Warranty
Declaration of Conformity
SIDE-CHAIN dBr
CONTENTS (in order of appearance)
-24 -12 -6
G4
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
1. Read these instructions.
2. Keep these instructions.
3. Heed all warnings.
4. Follow all instructions.
5. Do not use this apparatus near water.
6. Clean only with a dry cloth.
7. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions.
8. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A
grounding-type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or third prong is provided for your safety. If the provided plug
does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
10. Protect the power cord and plug from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where it exits from
the apparatus.
11. Only use attachments and accessories specified by Rane.
12. Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by the manufacturer, or sold with the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution
when moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury from tip-over.
13. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
14. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power supply
cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does
not operate normally, or has been dropped.
15. The plug on the power cord is the AC mains disconnect device and must remain readily operable. To completely disconnect this apparatus from
the AC mains, disconnect the power supply cord plug from the AC receptacle.
16. This apparatus shall be connected to a mains socket outlet with a protective earthing connection.
17. When permanently connected, an all-pole mains switch with a contact separation of at least 3 mm in each pole shall be incorporated in the
electrical installation of the building.
18. If rackmounting, provide adequate ventilation. Equipment may be located above or below this apparatus, but some equipment (like large power
amplifiers) may cause an unacceptable amount of hum or may generate too much heat and degrade the performance of this apparatus.
19. This apparatus may be installed in an industry standard equipment rack. Use screws through all mounting holes to provide the best support.
WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this apparatus to rain or moisture. Apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping
or splashing and no objects filled with liquids, such as vases, shall be placed on the apparatus.
WARNING
The symbols shown below are internationally accepted symbols
that warn of potential hazards with electrical products.
CAUTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
ATTENTION: RISQUE DE CHOCS ELECTRIQUE - NE PAS OUVRIR
To reduce the risk of electrical shock, do not open the unit. No user
serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified service personnel.
This symbol indicates that a dangerous voltage
constituting a risk of electric shock is present
within this unit.
This symbol indicates that there are important
operating and maintenance instructions in the
literature accompanying this unit.
WARNING: This product may contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, or birth defects or other reproductive harm.
NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules.
These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses
and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio
communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful
interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct
the interference by one or more of the following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
CAUTION: Changes or modifications not expressly approved by Rane Corporation could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.
This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.
Cet appareil numérique de la classe B est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.
INSTRUCTIONS DE SÉCURITÉ
1. Lisez ces instructions.
2. Gardez précieusement ces instructions.
3. Respectez les avertissements.
4. Suivez toutes les instructions.
5. Ne pas utiliser près d’une source d’eau.
6. Ne nettoyer qu’avec un chiffon doux.
7. N’obstruer aucune évacuation d’air. Effectuez l’installation en suivant les instructions du fabricant.
8. Ne pas disposer près d’une source de chaleur, c-à-d tout appareil produisant de la chaleur sans exception.
9. Ne pas modifier le cordon d’alimentation. Un cordon polarisé possède 2 lames, l’une plus large que l’autre. Un cordon avec tresse de masse possède
2 lames plus une 3è pour la terre. La lame large ou la tresse de masse assurent votre sécurité. Si le cordon fourni ne correspond pas à votre prise,
contactez votre électricien.
10. Faites en sorte que le cordon ne soit pas piétiné, ni au niveau du fil, ni au niveau de ses broches, ni au niveau des connecteurs de vos appareils.
11. N’utilisez que des accessoires recommandés par Rane.
12. N’utilisez que les éléments de transport, stands, pieds ou tables spécifiés par le fabricant ou vendu avec l’appareil. Quand vous utlisez une valise de
transport, prenez soin de vous déplacer avec cet équipement avec prudence afin d’éviter tout risque de blessure.
13. Débranchez cet appareil pendant un orage ou si vous ne l’utilisez pas pendant un certain temps.
14. Adressez-vous à du personnel qualifié pour tout service après vente. Celui-ci est nécessaire dans n’importe quel cas où l’appareil est abimé : si le
cordon ou les fiches sont endommagés, si du liquide a été renversé ou si des objets sont tombés sur l’appareil, si celui-ci a été exposé à la pluie ou
l’humidité, s’il ne fonctionne pas correctement ou est tombé.
15. La fiche du cordon d’alimentation sert à brancher le courant alternatif AC et doit absolument rester accessible. Pour déconnecter totalement
l’appareil du secteur, débranchez le câble d’alimentation de la prise secteur.
16. Cet appareil doit être branché à une prise terre avec protection.
17. Quand il est branché de manière permanente, un disjoncteur tripolaire normalisé doit être incorporé dans l’installation électrique de l’immeuble.
18. En cas de montage en rack, laissez un espace suffisant pour la ventilation. Vous pouvez disposer d’autres appareils au-dessus ou en-dessous de celuici, mais certains (tels que de gros amplificateurs) peuvent provoquer un buzz ou générer trop de chaleur au risque d’endommager votre appareil et
dégrader ses performances.
19. Cet appareil peut-être installé dans une baie standard ou un chassis normalisé pour un montage en rack. Visser chaque trou de chaque oreille de
rack pour une meilleure fixation et sécurité.
ATTENTION: afin d’éviter tout risque de feu ou de choc électrique, gardez cet appareil éloigné de toute source d’humidité et d’éclaboussures quelles
qu’elles soient. L’appareil doit également être éloigné de tout objet possédant du liquide (boisson en bouteilles, vases,…).
ATTENTION
CAUTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
ATTENTION: RISQUE DE CHOCS ELECTRIQUE - NE PAS OUVRIR
Afin d’éviter tout risque de choc électrique, ne pas ouvrir l’appareil.
Aucune pièce ne peut être changée par l’utilisateur. Contactez un
SAV qualifié pour toute intervention.
Les symboles ci-dessous sont reconnus internationalement
comme prévenant tout risque électrique.
Ce symbole indique que cette unité utilise un
voltage élevé constituant un risque de choc
électrique.
Ce symbole indique la présence d’instructions
d’utilisation et de maintenance importantes dans le
document fourni.
REMARQUE: Cet équipement a été testé et approuvé conforme aux limites pour un appareil numérique de classe B, conformément au chapitre 15
des règles de la FCC. Ces limites sont établis pour fournir une protection raisonnable contre tout risque d’interférences et peuvent provoquer une
énergie de radiofréquence s'il n'est pas installé et utilisé conformément aux instructions, peut également provoquer des interférences aux niveaux
des équipements de communication. Cependant, il n'existe aucune garantie que de telles interférences ne se produiront pas dans une installation
particulière. Si cet équipement provoque des interférences en réception radio ou télévision, ceci peut être detecté en mettant l'équipement sous/hors
tension, l'utilisateur est encouragé à essayer de corriger cette interférence par une ou plusieurs des mesures suivantes:
• Réorienter ou déplacer l'antenne de réception.
• Augmenter la distance entre l'équipement et le récepteur.
• Connecter l'équipement à une sortie sur un circuit différent de celui sur lequel le récepteur est branché.
• Consulter un revendeur ou un technicien radio / TV expérimenté.
ATTENTION: Les changements ou modifications non expressément approuvés par Rane Corporation peuvent annuler l'autorité de l'utilisateur à
manipuler cet équipement et rendre ainsi nulles toutes les conditions de garantie.
Cet appareil numérique de classe B est conforme à la norme Canadienne ICES-003.
Cet appareil numérique de classe B est conforme à la norme Canadienne NMB-003.
OPERATORS MANUAL
G4
QUAD GATE / DUCKER / EXPANDER
1
SIDE-CHAIN dBr
-24 -12 -6
-3
-1 TH
CLOSED
1
3
6
MASTER
12 OL
OPEN
-30 -20 -10
-40
0
-50
50
20
dBu
THRESHOLD
2
SIDE-CHAIN dBr
SLAVE
-24 -12 -6
.5
250
25
100
125
500
.25
0
250
25
2 Sec
0
2
ATTACK
40
3
Sec
ms
RELEASE
HOLD
315
2k
4
1
-30 -20 -10
-40
0
50
12 OL
6
-24 -12 -6
20
dBu
.5
250
25
100
125
500
.25
0
250
25
2 Sec
0
THRESHOLD
ATTACK
40
2
3
Sec
ms
RELEASE
4
-1 TH
HOLD
315
1
3
6
MASTER
12 OL
OPEN
-30 -20 -10
-40
0
-50
ms
-3
CLOSED
10
-60
3
SIDE-CHAIN dBr
3
OPEN
-50
ms
-1 TH
-3
CLOSED
10
-60
LINK
50
20
dBu
THRESHOLD
2k
4
SIDE-CHAIN dBr
SLAVE
-24 -12 -6
.5
250
25
100
125
500
.25
0
250
25
2 Sec
0
2
ATTACK
40
3
Sec
ms
RELEASE
4
-1 TH
HOLD
315
1
3
6
12 OL
OPEN
-30 -20 -10
-40
0
-50
ms
-3
CLOSED
10
-60
LINK
50
.5
250
25
100
125
500
.25
0
250
25
2 Sec
0
2
10
-60
20
dBu
THRESHOLD
2k
ms
ATTACK
40
RELEASE
4
HOLD
315
2k
60
20
2
6
80
1.25k 630
6.3k
60
20
2
6
80
1.25k
630
6.3k
60
20
2
6
80
1.25k
630
6.3k
60
20
2
6
80
1.25k
630
80
0
1
8
20
5k
20k
80
0
1
8
20
5k
200
20k
80
0
1
8
20
5k
200
20k
80
0
1
8
20
5k
200
dB
DEPTH
ACTIVE BYPASS
n:1
RATIO
INT
EXT
Hz
200
Hz
dB
LOW-CUT
HIGH-CUT
DEPTH
NORMAL LISTEN
GATE DUCK EXP
ACTIVE BYPASS
SIDE-CHAIN
n:1
RATIO
INT
EXT
Hz
Hz
dB
LOW-CUT
HIGH-CUT
DEPTH
NORMAL LISTEN
GATE DUCK EXP
ACTIVE BYPASS
SIDE-CHAIN
n:1
RATIO
INT
EXT
Hz
Hz
dB
LOW-CUT
HIGH-CUT
DEPTH
NORMAL LISTEN
GATE DUCK EXP
ACTIVE BYPASS
SIDE-CHAIN
n:1
RATIO
INT
EXT
G4
QUAD GATE
3
Sec
ms
Hz
6.3k
20k
Hz
LOW-CUT
HIGH-CUT
NORMAL LISTEN
GATE DUCK EXP
POWER
SIDE-CHAIN
Quick Start
If you read just one page of a manual this year, it should be this one.
If you are not familiar with the operation of Gates, Duckers and Expanders, see the Operation section on page Manual-4 for a
good tutorial. For those of you familiar with their operation, this quick start should help you get up and going fast.
Basic Gating: The G4 allows complete Gate envelope control: Threshold, Attack, Release and Hold. Side-chain metering accurately
and consistently indicates where the key signal is relative to the Threshold (dBr).
A good starting procedure is as follows:
1. Select the GATE mode and set for BYPASS.
2. Select side-chain key source for INTernal or EXTernal as required.
3. Set ATTACK to 0 ms, RELEASE for 250 ms, HOLD for 125 ms and DEPTH for 20 dB.
4. Select side-chain LISTEN.
5. Listen to the key signal and adjust the LOW-CUT and HIGH-CUT filters to respond only to frequencies of interest.
6. Watch the SIDE-CHAIN meter and adjust the THRESHOLD until the yellow TH indicator lights at the desired level.
7. Set the side-chain from LISTEN to NORMAL and the BYPASS to ACTIVE.
Basic ducking: As with the gate, the G4 provides complete Ducking envelope control. Figure 5 on page Manual-6 graphs the response. A good starting procedure is as follows:
1. Select the DUCK mode and set for BYPASS
2. Select side-chain key source for EXTernal. Ducking always uses an external side-chain key input.
3. Set ATTACK to 0 ms, RELEASE for 1 second, HOLD for 3 seconds and DEPTH for 20 dB.
4. Select side-chain LISTEN.
5. Listen to the key signal and adjust the LOW-CUT and HIGH-CUT filters to respond only to frequencies of interest.
6. Watch the SIDE-CHAIN meter and adjust the THRESHOLD until the yellow TH indicator lights at the desired level.
7. Set the side-chain from LISTEN to NORMAL and the BYPASS to ACTIVE.
Basic Expander: Expander operation is similar to that of the Gate, with two important control differences:
• The HOLD control is not active in EXPand mode.
• The RATIO control is used in place of the DEPTH control.
1. Select the EXPand mode and set for BYPASS.
2. Select side-chain key source for INTernal or EXTernal as required.
3. Set ATTACK to 100 ms, RELEASE for 500 ms, RATIO for 3:1.
4. Select side-chain LISTEN.
5. Listen to the key signal and adjust the LOW-CUT and HIGH-CUT filters to respond only to frequencies of interest.
6. Watch the SIDE-CHAIN meter and adjust the THRESHOLD until the yellow TH indicator lights at the desired level.
7. Set the side-chain from LISTEN to NORMAL and the BYPASS to ACTIVE.
Contents
Front Panel Controls............................................................2
Operation.............................................................................4
Side-chain Detector..........................................................4
Gate Mode.........................................................................4
Expand Mode.....................................................................5
Duck Mode.........................................................................6
Kick Drum Attack Example.................................................6
WEAR PARTS: This product contains no wear parts.
Manual-1
Front Panel Controls
Meters
Active / Bypass switch
SIDE-CHAIN dBr
ACTIVE BYPASS
-24 -12 -6
CLOSED
-3
-1 TH
1
3
6
12 OL
OPEN
The eleven-segment SIDE-CHAIN signal meter indicates
level relative to the Threshold (dBr), allowing easy and intuitive
adjustment of the Gate threshold. The Threshold indicator TH
is lit whenever the filtered side-chain signal is at or above the
set threshold. The signal peak value is held briefly to assist in
setting a proper threshold.
Meter ballistics follow the response of the side-chain detector. Gate and Duck modes use peak detection with instantaneous attack and 25 ms decay. Expand mode uses rms detection
with an averaging time constant of 50 ms.
Gate status is shown using a seven-segment gain reduction/
gate meter. This meter is effectively an expanded version of the
simple “stop light” meter found on many gates. The inclusion
of gain reduction metering allows the user to view the transition progress of the Gate and Ducker as well as the current gain
reduction when in Expand mode. The CLOSED LED is not active in Expand mode. The response of the gain reduction meter
accurately follows the Attack/Hold/Release envelope.
With this combined metering system it is possible to see at a
glance where the signal level is in relation to the threshold, and
the amount of gain reduction being applied.
Stereo Link
1
LINK
MASTER
2
3
SLAVE
MASTER
LINK
4
SLAVE
Channels 1 and 2 may be Linked for stereo operation, as may
channels 3 and 4. Channels 1 and 3 act as the Master when
Linked, with channels 2 and 4 operating as Slaves to their
respective Masters. When Linked, only the Master’s rotary
controls and mode select switch are active. The Master controls
the gain reduction of both channels.
Gate and Duck modes use look-ahead peak detection and
the Master uses the larger of the two processed signals. In
downward Expand mode, rms detection is used and the master
uses the rms sum of the filtered side-chain signals.
Side-chain bypass, Internal/External and Listen switches
remain independent when channels are Linked. To trigger from
only one key input, set the key source (INT/EXT) of the signal
you wish to ignore to EXTernal and leave the rear panel sidechain input disconnected.
Manual-2
The Active / Bypass switch bypasses or activates dynamics
processing for each channel. Side-chain metering and Listen
continue to operate in Bypass. Bypass switches remain independent in Link mode.
Gate / Duck / Expand mode switch
GATE DUCK EXP
The G4 has three modes of operation: Gate, Ducker or downward Expander. See the Operation section on page Manual-4
for operation details of each mode.
Threshold
-30 -20 -10
-40
0
-50
-60
10
20
dBu
THRESHOLD
In Gate mode, THRESHOLD sets the key level below which
the Gate is closed.
In Expand mode, THRESHOLD sets the key level below
which downward expansion takes place.
In Duck mode, THRESHOLD sets the key level above
which the signal is ducked.
Attack
50
25
100
0
250
ms
ATTACK
In Gate mode, ATTACK determines how quickly the Gate
opens when the key signal goes above the set threshold.
In Expand mode, ATTACK determines the rate of gain increase as the key signal moves toward or above the set threshold.
In Duck mode, ATTACK determines how quickly the
signal is ducked as the key signal goes above threshold.
Release
Side-Chain Key Sources: Internal / External
250
125
500
25
2 Sec
INT
EXT
ms
SIDE-CHAIN
RELEASE
In Gate mode, the RELEASE setting determines how quickly
the Gate closes (gain decrease) as the key signal drops below
threshold.
In Expand mode, the RELEASE setting determines how
quickly the signal is turned down as the key signal moves below
threshold.
In Duck mode, the RELEASE setting determines how
quickly the signal is ramped up when the key signal drops
below threshold.
Hold
The INTernal / EXTernal switch determines the source of the
side-chain key signal.
When set to INT, the channel input is the source. When
set to EXT, the side-chain input jack is the source. Side-chain
source switches remain independent in Link mode.
A wiring diagram to make your own insert cable is below.
Side-Chain: Normal / Listen
The NORMAL / LISTEN switch allows the user to listen to
the filtered side-chain key signal. When set to LISTEN, the
filtered side-chain key signal is routed to the output. Listening
to the filtered key signal assists in adjusting the side-chain filter.
When set to NORMAL , the main processed audio signal is
routed to the output jack. Side-chain Listen switches remain
independent in Link mode.
.5
.25
2
0
NORMAL LISTEN
3
Sec
HOLD
Side-Chain: Low-Cut and High Cut
315
In Gate mode, the HOLD time determines how long the Gate
remains open after the key signal drops below threshold.
In Duck mode, the HOLD time determines how long the
signal remains ducked when the key input drops below threshold.
The HOLD time is reasserted whenever the peak signal
moves above the Gate or Duck threshold.
The HOLD control has no effect in Expand mode.
Depth / Ratio
40
60
80
dB
80
20
2
0
1
DEPTH
630
5k
200
Hz
LOW-CUT
6.3k
20k
Hz
HIGH-CUT
The side-chain, 12 dB/octave Butterworth LOW-CUT and
HIGH-CUT filters are used to limit the detector’s response
to a particular range of frequencies, thereby minimizing false
triggering.
These filters are only applied to the side-chain. They do not
affect the main output (unless you accidentally leave the LISTEN switch engaged).
Side-chain filtering is advantageous in virtually all dynamics control applications. For example:
• Adjust the HIGH-CUT filter to tune out the mic bleed from
the snare drum or cymbals when gating a kick drum or tom
mic. Similarly, adjust the LOW-CUT filter to tune out the
kick drum when gating a snare mic.
• Adjust the LOW-CUT filter to eliminate background noise
(a low frequency air conditioner, for example) when using a
speech microphone to duck music. The filtered signal is less
likely to false trigger, while the detector remains sensitive to
voice signals.
4
20
2k
1.25k
6
8
n:1
RATIO
In Gate mode, the DEPTH control determines how many dB
the signal is attenuated when the key input is at or below threshold. The RATIO control has no effect in Gate mode.
In Duck mode, the DEPTH control determines how many
dB the signal is attenuated (ducked) when the key input is at or
above threshold. The RATIO control has no effect in Duck mode.
In Expand mode, the RATIO control indicates the ratio
of output change to input change when the key signal is at or
below threshold. For example, with a ratio of 4:1, the output
level decreases 4 dB for every 1 dB the key signal moves below
threshold. The DEPTH control has no effect in Expand mode.
+
1-CONDUCTOR SHIELDED CABLE
+
SEND
T = SEND
R = RETURN
S = SHIELD
SHIELD
+
SHIELD
1-CONDUCTOR SHIELDED CABLE
+
RETURN
SHIELD
Send/Return Cable Wiring (Insert Cable)
Manual-3
Operation
The G4 has 3 modes: Gate, Ducker or downward Expander.
Side-chain Detector
The side-chain detector compares a reference signal, commonly
referred to as the key signal, to the Threshold in order to determine the response of the Gate/Ducker/Expander. This reference
signal may be a version of the main input (Internal side-chain)
or another signal altogether (using the External side-chain
inputs).
Two types of detection are used in the G4:
• Peak detection is used in Gate and Duck modes to accurately
capture and reproduce transients.
• True rms detection with a fixed 35 ms averaging time constant is used in Expand mode.
The look ahead detector works as follows: the main signal is
delayed, while the side-chain signal is not delayed. This delay is
extremely short (a few millionths of a second) and can’t be heard.
The G4 examines the signal in advance and determine the appropriate response before an event (see Figures 2 and 3). This
action allows the Gate and Ducker to turn on before a transient
occurs. Pre-ramping the signal allows the main signal to be
gated-on as the signal reaches the threshold.
Look ahead pre-ramping serves two purposes:
• Leading edge wave shape is preserved above 1 kHz (see
Figure 2).
• It is possible to tighten up the sound of frequencies below
1 kHz without the annoying click resulting from deep gate
depth, high threshold and instantaneous attack settings (see
Figure 3).
Gate Mode
A Gate operates by turning a signal down a fixed number of
dB (known as depth) when the key signal drops below a set
threshold.
Figure 1 shows the waveform and envelope of a gated signal.
The leading edge of the envelope is the attack time (0 to 250
ms). The hold time (0 to 3 seconds) determines how long the
gate remains open after the signal goes below the set threshold.
The release rate (25 ms to 2 seconds) determines how rapidly
the Gate closes after the hold time has expired.
The attack setting is equal to 3 time constants, or the time
it takes to reach 95% of the final value. Because the attack is a
time constant, it takes the same period of time to reach 95 %
of final value regardless of the Gate depth. This means the Gate
will open in the same period of time from a depth of 80 dB or
6 dB.
The minimum hold time is 25 ms and is based on two
parameters:
• The peak detector uses instantaneous attack and a fixed
25 ms hold. This prevents cycle-to-cycle “chatter” at low
frequencies.
• The hold time after detection is adjustable from 0 ms to 3
seconds, giving a minimum hold time of 25 ms and a maximum hold time of 3.025 seconds.
The release rate is in dB/sec. The front panel setting refers
to the length of time it takes to ramp 10 dB. If the release rate is
set to 250 ms, then it takes: 250 ms to ramp 10 dB, 125 ms to
ramp 5 dB and 2 seconds to ramp 80 dB.
Gating Uses
1. To reduce microphone bleed, handling noise, electrical hum
or incidental back ground noise. Microphones continue to
pick up extraneous noise even when the intended signal is
not present. A Gate effectively closes the microphone in the
absence of the expected signal. Side-chain filters further help
identify intended versus extraneous content by limiting the
frequency response to the frequencies of interest.
Example uses
• Clean up bleed between drum microphones
• Automatically gate speech microphones on/off
• Silence noisy guitar amps between songs.
2. To modify the sound of an instrument. To soften the sound,
use a longer attack, lower threshold and/or reduced depth. To
tighten up the sound, use a shorter attack, higher threshold
and/or increased depth.
Example uses
• Fast attack settings tighten the sound of a drum or percussion instrument.
• Short hold and fast release times give that ultra-cool 80’s Phil
Collins drum sound.
3. To synchronize two sounds. Use the external side-chain
inputs to key one input based on an a secondary input.
Example uses
• Attach a piezo transducer to a drum and use it as an external
side-chain input to accurately gate the drum mic on and off.
Figure 1: Gate Envelope
Manual-4
Expand Mode
The basic objective of expansion is the same as gating: expand
the dynamic range of a signal by reducing the noise floor.
However, an expander provides a more subtle response than a
gate in applications requiring smooth, natural decay. It works by
controlling the ratio of output change to input change, in effect
dynamically modifying gain below a set threshold. For example,
if the ratio is set to 4:1 then the output decreases 4 dB for every
1 dB of decrease in input level (See figure 4).
Compared to gating, expansion typically uses a slower attack
time and longer release time.
Example uses
• Enhance the long, gradual decay of a piano or guitar.
• Use an expander on a quiet vocalist to reduce stage noise
between passages.
In the above waveform, the side-chain Gate threshold equals
the peak sine wave value (first vertical marker). The main input
signal (yellow trace) is delayed a few microseconds. At 3 kHz,
the exponential look-ahead ramp guarantees the first cycle is
fully gated on as it reaches the threshold level (second vertical
marker). The look ahead and analog converter delays give a total
propagation delay though the G4 of 1.62 ms, an imperceptible
amount.
+20
+10
0
O
U
T -10
P
U
T -20
d
B -30
u
-40
R
DE
-50
E-
SID
-60
IN
CHA
N
PA
EX
UT
INP
E
GAT
-70
-80
-60
-55
-50
-45
-40
-35
-30
-25
-20
-15
-10
-5
0
THRESHOLD = 0 dBu
Figure 2: Look ahead pre- ramping (3 kHz signal)
+5 +10
+15
+20
INPUT dBu
Figure 4: Gate vs. Expander
Figure 3: Look ahead pre-ramping (500 Hz signal)
At 500 Hz the exponential pre-ramp ensures that the first cycle
is properly gated on. Look ahead pre-ramping produces a more
natural leading edge to the wave form, tightening up the sound
without the harsh click that occurs with an instantaneous rise
time.
The above graph shows the difference between Gate and
Expander operation. The solid red trace shows the side-chain
input.
Gate: The green long-dash trace shows the operation of a
Gate. The Gate attenuates the signal by a fixed number of dB
when the signal is below threshold. The response is adjustable
over a wide range using Attack, Release and Hold controls. It
is possible to achieve natural decay with string instruments by
setting the release for slow ramp down. Fast attack, quick release
and deep depth settings can be used to change the character of
drums or other percussion instruments.
Expander: The blue short-dash trace shows downward expansion with a ratio of 2:1. The signal is turned down gradually,
resulting in lower noise in the absence of signal while allowing
natural signal decay. Downward expansion generally uses a Release time of about 500 ms to 1 second and an Attack setting of
100 ms to 500 ms. The Hold function is not active when using
the Expander.
Manual-5
Duck Mode
Ducking reduces the level of a signal by a certain amount (the
depth) when the side-chain key signal exceeds a set threshold.
Ducking is useful for voiceover and instrument solo applications.
Example uses
• Automatically duck music when an announcement is made.
Connect the music signal to the main input, connect a signal
from the announcement microphone to the side-chain key
input. When the announcer speaks, the key input exceeds the
set threshold, and music is automatically turned down.
• Automatically duck the bass by a few dB every time the kick
drum is hit. Connect the bass to the main input, connect a
signal from the kick drum to the side-chain key input. Use a
relatively shallow depth.
Figure 5: Ducker
+20
The pictures below show the affect of attack time on the leading
edge of a kick drum. The blue trace shows the Gate input signal.
The yellow trace shows the Gate output signal. The time difference between the two signals represents the total propagation
delay through the Gate. The Gate Threshold is set to about 80%
of the peak value. The Gate Depth is 20 dB.
The first complete cycle of the kick drum defines its sound, as
subsequent cycles are considerably lower in amplitude. The kick
drum’s sound is significantly changed if the gate can not accurately capture the first cycle. Look ahead without ramping often
causes an audible click at fast attack and moderate to extreme
depth settings. Only look ahead pre-ramping – as done in the
G4 – accurately reproduces the 1st cycle of a kick drum without
adding excessive delay or significantly altering the leading edge.
20
+10
5
O 0
U
T -10
P
U
T -20
d
B -30
u
-40
1
V
100m
-50
AIN
UT
INP
-CH
-60
E
SID
-70
-80
-60
Kick Drum Attack Example
-55
-50
-45
-40
-35
-30
10m
DUCKED SIGNAL
-25
-20 -15 -10
INPUT dBu
-5
0
+5
+10 +15
+20
1m
The above graph shows the operation of the Ducker. A
Ducker works the opposite of a Gate. The signal is attenuated
when the side-chain key input goes above threshold. In the above
example, the dashed-line green trace shows the signal being
ducked. The solid-line red trace shows the external key input.
The threshold is set at –20 dBu. When the key input goes above
-20 dBu, the main signal is ducked by an amount set by the
depth control, in this case around 45 dB.
Note: All applications of ducking use the external side-chain key
input.
The first figure shows the response with a 0 ms attack time. The leading edge is defined by the look-ahead ramping. Note the leading edge
of the output is almost identical to the input signal.
The second figure shows the response with a 1 ms attack.
The slower rise time softens the sound of the leading edge.
©Rane Corporation 10802 47th Ave. W., Mukilteo WA 98275-5000 USA TEL 425-355-6000 FAX 425-347-7757 WEB www.rane.com
Manual-6
107405
ms
250
100
dB
0
80
ms
50
250
100
0
dB
80
ACTIVE BYPASS
DEPTH
20
60
n:1
INT
6
8
1
5k
1.25k
ms
250
3
500
Hz
315
5k
1.25k
NORMAL LISTEN
LOW-CUT
20
80
1
20k
6.3k
3
2
MASTER
20k
6.3k
3
2
GATE DUCK EXP
HIGH-CUT
Hz
2k
Sec
.5
HOLD
200
630
0
.25
MASTER
1
GATE DUCK EXP
HIGH-CUT
Hz
2k
Sec
.5
HOLD
200
630
0
.25
12 OL
2 Sec
6
RELEASE
25
125
OPEN
SIDE-CHAIN
EXT
RATIO
1
2
4
0
25
Hz
315
NORMAL LISTEN
-1 TH
40
20
10
500
12 OL
2 Sec
6
LOW-CUT
20
80
SIDE-CHAIN dBr
-3
ms
250
3
RELEASE
25
125
OPEN
1
SIDE-CHAIN
EXT
ATTACK
dBu
INT
THRESHOLD
-60
-50
n:1
6
8
RATIO
1
2
-24 -12 -6
-30 -20 -10
-40
0
CLOSED
ACTIVE BYPASS
DEPTH
20
60
4
0
50
40
20
25
ATTACK
dBu
10
-1 TH
SIDE-CHAIN dBr
-3
THRESHOLD
-60
-50
-30 -20 -10
-40
0
CLOSED
-24 -12 -6
LINK
LINK
2
dBu
20
10
dB
40
0
20
dBu
20
10
dB
40
0
20
ACTIVE BYPASS
DEPTH
80
60
THRESHOLD
-60
-50
ms
50
250
100
INT
ms
50
250
n:1
4
INT
8
6
1
ms
250
3
500
Hz
315
5k
1.25k
NORMAL LISTEN
LOW-CUT
20
80
0
20k
6.3k
3
2
20k
6.3k
3
2
GATE DUCK EXP
HIGH-CUT
Hz
2k
Sec
HOLD
200
630
0
.25
.5
GATE DUCK EXP
HIGH-CUT
Hz
2k
Sec
.5
HOLD
200
630
12 OL
2 Sec
6
RELEASE
25
125
OPEN
SIDE-CHAIN
EXT
RATIO
1
2
5k
1.25k
NORMAL LISTEN
-1 TH
100
Hz
315
SIDE-CHAIN dBr
-3
2 Sec
.25
12 OL
500
LOW-CUT
20
80
SIDE-CHAIN
EXT
8
6
ATTACK
0
25
n:1
4
RATIO
1
2
ms
6
RELEASE
25
3
250
OPEN
1
125
-1 TH
SIDE-CHAIN dBr
-3
ATTACK
0
-24 -12 -6
-30 -20 -10
-40
0
CLOSED
SLAVE
2
ACTIVE BYPASS
DEPTH
80
60
THRESHOLD
-60
-50
25
-24 -12 -6
-30 -20 -10
-40
0
CLOSED
SLAVE
dBu
20
10
dB
40
0
20
dBu
20
10
dB
40
0
20
ACTIVE BYPASS
DEPTH
80
60
THRESHOLD
-60
-50
ms
50
250
100
INT
8
ms
250
n:1
4
INT
6
8
5k
1.25k
ms
250
3
500
Hz
315
5k
1.25k
NORMAL LISTEN
LOW-CUT
20
80
0
3
20k
6.3k
3
2
MASTER
20k
6.3k
3
2
GATE DUCK EXP
HIGH-CUT
Hz
2k
Sec
.5
HOLD
200
630
0
.25
MASTER
3
GATE DUCK EXP
HIGH-CUT
Hz
2k
Sec
.5
HOLD
200
630
12 OL
2 Sec
6
RELEASE
25
SIDE-CHAIN
EXT
RATIO
1
2
1
OPEN
125
-1 TH
100
Hz
315
NORMAL LISTEN
SIDE-CHAIN
EXT
2 Sec
.25
12 OL
500
LOW-CUT
20
80
SIDE-CHAIN dBr
-3
50
6
ATTACK
0
25
n:1
4
RATIO
1
2
ms
6
RELEASE
25
3
250
OPEN
1
125
-1 TH
SIDE-CHAIN dBr
-3
ATTACK
0
25
-24 -12 -6
-30 -20 -10
-40
0
CLOSED
ACTIVE BYPASS
DEPTH
80
60
THRESHOLD
-60
-50
-30 -20 -10
-40
0
CLOSED
-24 -12 -6
LINK
LINK
4
dBu
20
10
dB
40
0
20
dBu
20
10
dB
40
0
20
ACTIVE BYPASS
DEPTH
80
60
THRESHOLD
-60
-50
ms
50
250
100
INT
8
ms
250
n:1
4
INT
6
8
1
5k
1.25k
ms
250
3
500
Hz
315
5k
1.25k
NORMAL LISTEN
LOW-CUT
20
80
0
20k
6.3k
3
2
20k
6.3k
3
2
GATE DUCK EXP
HIGH-CUT
Hz
2k
Sec
HOLD
200
630
0
.25
.5
GATE DUCK EXP
HIGH-CUT
Hz
2k
Sec
.5
HOLD
200
630
12 OL
2 Sec
6
RELEASE
25
125
OPEN
SIDE-CHAIN
EXT
RATIO
1
2
Hz
315
NORMAL LISTEN
-1 TH
100
2 Sec
.25
12 OL
500
LOW-CUT
20
80
SIDE-CHAIN
EXT
ms
6
RELEASE
25
3
250
SIDE-CHAIN dBr
-3
50
6
ATTACK
0
25
n:1
4
RATIO
1
2
1
OPEN
125
-1 TH
SIDE-CHAIN dBr
-3
ATTACK
0
-24 -12 -6
-30 -20 -10
-40
0
CLOSED
SLAVE
4
ACTIVE BYPASS
DEPTH
80
60
THRESHOLD
-60
-50
25
-24 -12 -6
-30 -20 -10
-40
0
CLOSED
SLAVE
G4
POWER
QUAD GATE
POWER
G4
QUAD GATE
DATA SHEET
G4
QUAD GATE / DUCKER / EXPANDER
General Description
Analog-Controlled Digital
Combining familiar front panel controls with the accuracy and
performance of digital signal processing, Rane’s full-featured,
high performance G4 Quad Gate is suitable for use in a variety
of demanding dynamics processing applications. Gating, ducking and downward expansion modes are offered, together with
internal high- and low-cut filters and external side-chain inputs.
It is the ideal tool for front of house, monitor, instrument and
voice processing, broadcast and recording.
The G4 is a member of Rane’s analog-controlled digital
family of products, which includes the C4 compressor and DEQ
60L graphic equalizer.
Analog controls (knobs, sliders) allow a performer or sound
engineer to make precise adjustments, in real time. Digital signal
processing (DSP) provides a degree of accuracy, consistency and
flexibility that simply can not be matched with a traditional
analog design.
The G4 combines the best of both worlds by using analog
controls and high performance digital processing to achieve an
unprecedented feature set. Benefits of this approach:
• Look Ahead Gating with Pre-Ramp: Never miss a transient.
• Improved accuracy and repeatability.
• Exceptional immunity to RF and electromagnetic interference.
• Lower cost per channel.
Features
Dynamics controls include:
•
•
•
•
•
•
Gate / Expand / Duck Modes
Look-ahead Gating
Stereo Link
Adjustable Threshold, Attack, Release, Hold, Depth and Ratio
Gain Reduction / Gate meter
Bypass
Side-chain processing includes:
•
•
•
•
Side-Chain metering
Internal Low- and High-Cut Filters
Internal / External switch
Listen switch
Plus:
• XLR and ¼" TRS input/output connectors
• Universal internal switching power supply
Data Sheet-1
G4
QUAD GATE / DUCKER / EXPANDER
Features and Specifications
Parameter
Inputs: Type
..........Maximum Input
..........Common Mode Rejection
..........Input Impedance
..........Main Input Connectors
..........Side-Chain In Connectors
Digital Processing
Converters: Sample Rate
..........Dynamic Range
..........Propagation Delay
..........Fixed-Point DSP
Dynamics Processing
Side-chain detect: Peak
..........RMS
Dynamics Controls
..........Bypass
..........Threshold Range
..........Attack
..........Release
..........Hold
..........Depth
..........Ratio
..........Low Cut
..........High Cut
..........Internal / External
..........Normal / Listen
Meter: Gain Reduction
..........Side-chain level
..........Side-chain level
Outputs:
..........Connectors
..........Impedance
..........Maximum Output
EMI Filters
Frequency Response
THD+Noise
THD+Noise
Crosstalk
Power Supply Requirement
Unit: Conformity
Unit: Construction
..........Size
..........Weight
.....Shipping: Size
..........Weight
Note: 0 dBu=0.775 Vrms
Data Sheet-2
Specification
Active Balanced
+22
60
10k
XLR, ¼" TRS
¼" TRS
48
106
1.62
48-bit double precision
Gate/Expand/Duck
toggle switch
+20 to -60
0 to 250
0.025 to 2.0
0 to 3
0 to 80
1:1 to 8:1
20 to 5000
200 to 20,000
Toggle switch
Toggle switch
Closed, -24, -12, -6, -3, -1, Open
Relative to Threshold setting
Relative to Threshold setting
Active Balanced
XLR, ¼" TRS
100
+22
Yes
15 Hz to 20 kHz
.02
.006
<-100
FCC, CULUS
All Steel
3.5" H x 19" W x 8.25" D (2U)
7.3 lb
4.5" x 20.3" x 13.75"
12 lb
Limit
Units
1
typ.
1%
dBu
dB
Ω
Conditions/Comments
Auto balanced/unbalanced
1 kHz
1 kHz
Each leg to ground @ 1 kHz
XLR pin 2 hot per AES standards
Tip = hot, ring = negative
typ.
typ.
kHz
dB
ms
24-bit
A-weighted (input to output); unity
Converter delay plus look ahead
LED mode indicators
16-sample look ahead, 25 ms hold
True rms, 50 ms average RC
All pots 8-bit resolution or 256 steps
Active/Bypass LED indicators
1
dB
ms
Sec.
Sec.
dB
Hz
Hz
dB
dBr
dBr
1%
1
Ω
dBu
+0/-3
typ.
typ.
typ.
dB
%
%
dB
Settle to 85% of final value
For 10 dB step
Gate and Duck modes only
Gate and Duck modes only
Expand mode only
2nd-order Butterworth (12 dB/oct.)
2nd-order Butterworth (12 dB/oct.)
LED indicator (side-chain key source)
LED indicator (listen to side-chain)
Each channel
Peak dBu for Gate/Duck, 11-segment
RMS dBu for Expander, 11-segment
Auto balanced/unbalanced
XLR pin 2 hot per AES standards
Each leg to ground
600 Ω or greater
Inputs and Outputs
+4 dBu, 20-20 kHz, 20 kHz BW
+4 dBu, 1 kHz, 20 kHz BW
2 kHz
100 to 240 VAC, 50/60 Hz, 20 W
(8.9 cm x 48.3 cm x 21 cm)
(3.3 kg)
(11.5 cm x 52 cm x 35 cm)
(5.5 kg)
G4
QUAD GATE / DUCKER / EXPANDER
G4 Block Diagram
All channels identical
DSP BLOCK
OUTPUT
2
3
1
INPUT
-
BYPASS
LOOK AHEAD
DELAY
ADC
GAIN CONTROL
ACTIVE
+
NORM
HOLD
25 ms
PEAK
DETECTOR
25 ms DECAY
THRESHOLD
-60
SIDE-CHAIN
(KEY)
INT
ADC
EXT
5k 200
F1
0 dB
ATTACK (ms) RELEASE
0
250 25 ms 2 Sec
GATE/DUCK
DEPTH
(PRE-RAMP)
MODE
GATE
DUCK
EXPAND
EXPAND
RATIO
20k
F2
DEPTH
-80 dB
THRESHOLD
LOW-CUT HIGH-CUT
20
3 Sec
GATE/DUCK
HOLD
+20
2+
31
LISTEN
TO SLAVE
MASTER
COMPARE
USE LARGER
LINK SLAVE PEAK
DAC
RMS
DETECTOR
50 ms TC
(dB DELTA)
ATTACK / RELEASE
(1st-ORDER FILTER)
(dB GAIN CHANGE)
(1:1)
(8:1)
RATIO
LINK SLAVE RMS
(RMS SUM)
THRESHOLD
SIDE-CHAIN dBr
dBr
-24 -12 -6
CLOSED
-3
-1 TH
1
OPEN
3
6
12 OL
GAIN REDUCTION
Data Sheet-3
G4
QUAD GATE / DUCKER / EXPANDER
Rear Panel
G4
OUTPUT 4
INPUT 4
OUTPUT 3
INPUT 3
OUTPUT 2
INPUT 2
OUTPUT 1
INPUT 1
SIDE-CHAIN
RANE CORPORATION
COMMERCIAL AUDIO
EQUIPMENT 24TJ
100-240V
50/60 Hz 20 WATTS
WIRING
FOR CONTINUED
GROUNDING
PROTECTION
DO NOT REMOVE
SCREW
TIP / PIN 2 = POSITIVE
RING / PIN 3 = NEGATIVE
SLEEVE = SIGNAL GROUND
PIN 1 = CHASSIS GROUND
Applications
MIC 1 INPUT
INSERT RETURN
CH 1 SIDE-CHAIN
GATE
MIC 2 INPUT
INSERT SEND
INSERT RETURN
INSERT RETURN
MIXER
GATE
INSERT RETURN
VOICEOVER MIX
CH 3
CH 1 INPUT
CH 1 OUTPUT
Threshold
Level
CH 2 INPUT
Output Waveform
Side-Chain Signal
Gate Envelope
333 µSec Delay
The G4 uses a very short look ahead (16 samples, or 333
microseconds) with exponential ramping to ensure accurate clickless gating.
Time
Threshold
Level
Output Waveform
Side-Chain Signal
Gate Envelope
CH 2 OUTPUT
CH 3 SIDE-CHAIN
EXPAND
MUSIC
SOURCE
MUSIC 1
INSERT SEND
CH 4
THIS DEVICE COMPLIES WITH PART 15 OF THE FCC RULES. OPERATION IS SUBJECT TO THE FOLLOWING
TWO CONDITIONS: (1) THIS DEVICE MAY NOT CAUSE HARMFUL INTERFERENCE, AND (2) THIS DEVICE
MUST ACCEPT ANY INTERFERENCE RECEIVED, INCLUDING INTERFERENCE THAT MAY CAUSE
UNDESIRED OPERATION. THIS CLASS B DIGITAL APPARATUS COMPLIES WITH CANADIAN ICES-003. CET
APPAREIL NUMÉRIQUE DE LA CLASSE B EST CONFORME À LA NORME NMB-003 DU CANADA.
Time
CH 2 SIDE-CHAIN
INSTRUMENT 1
INSERT SEND
CH 1
Look Ahead Gating
The G4 is ideal for a variety of dynamics applications including
gating, ducking and downward expansion. Internal or external
side-chain key input, built-in side-chain filtering, side-chain listen, look-ahead signal detection and advanced metering combine
with properly defined threshold, attack, decay, hold, and depth
controls to provide the necessary tools for unsurpassed flexibility
and performance. The G4 is the only quad gate available with
this complete set of features.
INSERT SEND
CH 2
CH 3 INPUT
CH 3 OUTPUT
G4
Conventional gates without look ahead or ramping
result in audible clicks at fast attack settings.
CH 4 SIDE-CHAIN
DUCK
CH 4 INPUT
CH 4 OUTPUT
References
Holden, Jeffs, Bohn, “Dynamics Processors – Technology and
Applications,” RaneNote, (2005).
©Rane Corporation 10802 47th Ave. W., Mukilteo WA 98275-5000 USA TEL 425-355-6000 FAX 425-347-7757 WEB rane.com
Data Sheet-4
All features & specifications subject to change without notice. 1-2014
RaneNote
SOUND SYSTEM INTERCONNECTION
Sound System
Interconnection
• Cause & prevention of ground loops
• Interfacing balanced & unbalanced
• Proper pin connections and wiring
• Chassis ground vs. signal ground
• Ground lift switches
Rane Technical Staff
Introduction
This note, originally written in 1985, continues to be
one of our most useful references. It’s popularity stems
from the continual and perpetual difficulty of hooking
up audio equipment without suffering through all sorts
of bizarre noises, hums, buzzes, whistles, etc.— not to
mention the extreme financial, physical and psychological price. As technology progresses it is inevitable that
electronic equipment and its wiring should be subject
to constant improvement. Many things have improved
in the audio industry since 1985, but unfortunately
wiring isn’t one of them. However, finally the Audio
Engineering Society (AES) has issued a standards
document for interconnection of pro audio equipment. It is AES48, titled “AES48-2005: AES standard
on interconnections —Grounding and EMC practices
— Shields of connectors in audio equipment containing
active circuitry.”
Rane’s policy is to accommodate rather than dictate. However, this document contains suggestions for
external wiring changes that should ideally only be
implemented by trained technical personnel. Safety
regulations require that all original grounding means
provided from the factory be left intact for safe operation. No guarantee of responsibility for incidental
or consequential damages can be provided. (In other
words, don’t modify cables, or try your own version of
grounding unless you really understand exactly what
type of output and input you have to connect.)
RaneNote 110
© 1985, 1995, 2006, 2007, 2011 Rane Corporation
Interconnection-1
Ground Loops
Almost all cases of noise can be traced directly to
ground loops, grounding or lack thereof. It is important
to understand the mechanism that causes grounding
noise in order to effectively eliminate it. Each component of a sound system produces its own ground internally. This ground is usually called the audio signal
ground. Connecting devices together with the interconnecting cables can tie the signal grounds of the two
units together in one place through the conductors in
the cable. Ground loops occur when the grounds of the
two units are also tied together in another place: via
the third wire in the line cord, by tying the metal chassis together through the rack rails, etc. These situations
create a circuit through which current may flow in a
closed “loop” from one unit’s ground out to a second
unit and back to the first. It is not simply the presence
of this current that creates the hum—it is when this
current flows through a unit’s audio signal ground that
creates the hum. In fact, even without a ground loop, a
little noise current always flows through every interconnecting cable (i.e., it is impossible to eliminate these
currents entirely). The mere presence of this ground
loop current is no cause for alarm if your system uses
properly implemented and completely balanced interconnects, which are excellent at rejecting ground loop
and other noise currents. Balanced interconnect was
developed to be immune to these noise currents, which
can never be entirely eliminated. What makes a ground
loop current annoying is when the audio signal is affected. Unfortunately, many manufacturers of balanced
audio equipment design the internal grounding system
improperly, thus creating balanced equipment that is
not immune to the cabling’s noise currents. This is one
reason for the bad reputation sometimes given to balanced interconnect.
A second reason for balanced interconnect’s bad
reputation comes from those who think connecting
unbalanced equipment into “superior” balanced equipment should improve things. Sorry. Balanced interconnect is not compatible with unbalanced. The small
physical nature and short cable runs of completely
unbalanced systems (home audio) also contain these
ground loop noise currents. However, the currents in
unbalanced systems never get large enough to affect
the audio to the point where it is a nuisance. Mixing
balanced and unbalanced equipment, however, is an
entirely different story, since balanced and unbalanced
interconnect are truly not compatible. The rest of this
note shows several recommended implementations for
all of these interconnection schemes.
The potential or voltage which pushes these noise
currents through the circuit is developed between the
independent grounds of the two or more units in the
system. The impedance of this circuit is low, and even
though the voltage is low, the current is high, thanks to
Mr. Ohm, without whose help we wouldn’t have these
problems. It would take a very high resolution ohm
meter to measure the impedance of the steel chassis or
the rack rails. We’re talking thousandths of an ohm. So
trying to measure this stuff won’t necessarily help you.
We just thought we’d warn you.
BALANCED OUTPUTS
+
–
BALANCED INPUTS
RED
BLACK
SHIELD
+
RED
BLACK
SHIELD
2-CONDUCTOR SHIELDED CABLE
–
G
MALE
G
FEMALE
RED
2
BLACK
3 C 3
SHIELD
1
1
2
T
R
S
CHASSIS
GROUND
Interconnection-2
RED
BLACK
SHIELD
2-CONDUCTOR SHIELDED CABLE
RED
BLACK
SHIELD
2-CONDUCTOR SHIELDED CABLE
RED
BLACK
SHIELD
Figure 1a. The right way to do it.
MALE
2
1
3
FEMALE
2
C 3
1
T
R
S
CHASSIS SIGNAL
GROUND GROUND
The Absolute Best Right Way To Do It
The method specified by AES48 is to use balanced lines
and tie the cable shield to the metal chassis (right where
it enters the chassis) at both ends of the cable.
A balanced line requires three separate conductors, two of which are signal (+ and –) and one shield
(see Figure 1a). The shield serves to guard the sensitive
audio lines from interference. Only by using balanced
line interconnects can you guarantee (yes, guarantee)
hum-free results. Always use twisted pair cable. Chassis tying the shield at each end also guarantees the best
possible protection from RFI [radio frequency interference] and other noises [neon signs, lighting dimmers].
Neil Muncy1, an electroacoustic consultant and
seasoned veteran of years of successful system design,
chairs the AES Standards Committee (SC-05-05)
working on this subject. He tirelessly tours the world
giving seminars and dispensing information on how to
successfully hook-up pro audio equipment2. He makes
the simple point that it is absurd that you cannot go
out and buy pro audio equipment from several different
manufacturers, buy standard off-the-shelf cable assemblies, come home, hook it all up and have it work hum
and noise free. Plug and play. Sadly, almost never is
this the case, despite the science and rules of noise-free
interconnect known and documented for over 60 years
(see References for complete information).
It all boils down to using balanced lines, only balanced lines, and nothing but balanced lines. This is why
they were developed. Further, that you tie the shield to
the chassis, at the point it enters the chassis, and at both
ends of the cable (more on ‘both ends’ later).
Since standard XLR cables come with their shields
tied to pin 1 at each end (the shells are not tied, nor
need be), this means equipment using 3-pin, XLR-type
connectors must tie pin 1 to the chassis (usually called
chassis ground) — not the audio signal ground as is
most common.
Not using signal ground is the most radical departure from common pro-audio practice. Not that there
is any argument about its validity. There isn’t. This is
the right way to do it. So why doesn’t audio equipment
come wired this way? Well, some does, and since 1993,
more of it does. That’s when Rane started manufacturing some of its products with balanced inputs and
outputs tying pin 1 to chassis. So why doesn’t everyone
do it this way? Because life is messy, some things are
hard to change, and there will always be equipment in
use that was made before proper grounding practices
were in effect.
Unbalanced equipment is another problem: it is
everwhere, easily available and inexpensive. All those
RCA and ¼" TS connectors found on consumer equipment; effect-loops and insert-points on consoles; signal
processing boxes; semi-pro digital and analog tape
recorders; computer cards; mixing consoles; et cetera.
The next several pages give tips on how to successfully address hooking up unbalanced equipment.
Unbalanced equipment when “blindly” connected with
fully balanced units starts a pattern of hum and undesirable operation, requiring extra measures to correct
the situation.
The Next Best Right Way To Do It
The quickest, quietest and most foolproof method to
connect balanced and unbalanced is to transformer
isolate all unbalanced connections. See Figure 2.
Many manufacturers provide several tools for this
task, including Rane. Consult your audio dealer to explore the options available.
The goal of these adaptors is to allow the use of
standard cables. With these transformer isolation
boxes, modification of cable assemblies is unnecessary.
Virtually any two pieces of audio equipment can be
successfully interfaced without risk of unwanted hum
and noise.
UNBALANCED
COMMON (WRONG) PRACTICE
(+)
CASE
RECOMMENDED PRACTICE
2
2
3
(–)
3
1
CHASSIS
GROUND
(+)
CASE
OPTIONAL
(–)
NOT CONNECTED
AT CHASSIS
(PLASTIC JACK)
TRANSFORMER
1/4”
TIP-SLEEVE
1
SIGNAL
GROUND
CHASSIS
GROUND
CHASSIS
GROUND
Figure 1b. Recommmended practice.
BALANCED
2
3
1
EARTH GROUNDED
METAL ENCLOSURE
CASE LUG MAY
CONNECT TO
CHASSIS
(NOT REQUIRED)
CHASSIS IS
GROUNDED TO PIN 1
Figure 2. Transformer Isolation
Interconnection-3
Another way to create the necessary isolation is to
use a direct box. Originally named for its use to convert
the high impedance, high level output of an electric
guitar to the low impedance, low level input of a recording console, it allowed the player to plug “directly”
into the console. Now this term is commonly used to
describe any box used to convert unbalanced lines to
balanced lines.
The Last Best Right Way To Do It
If transformer isolation is not an option, special
cable assemblies are a last resort. The key here is to
prevent the shield currents from flowing into a unit
whose grounding scheme creates ground loops (hum)
in the audio path (i.e., most audio equipment).
It is true that connecting both ends of the shield is
theoretically the best way to interconnect equipment
–though this assumes the interconnected equipment is
internally grounded properly. Since most equipment is
not internally grounded properly, connecting both ends
of the shield is not often practiced, since doing so usually creates noisy interconnections.
A common solution to these noisy hum and buzz
problems involves disconnecting one end of the shield,
even though one can not buy off-the-shelf cables with
the shield disconnected at one end. The best end to disconnect is the receiving end. If one end of the shield is
disconnected, the noisy hum current stops flowing and
away goes the hum — but only at low frequencies. A
ground-sending-end-only shield connection minimizes
the possibility of high frequency (radio) interference
since it prevents the shield from acting as an antenna
to the next input. Many reduce this potential RF interference by providing an RF path through a small capacitor (0.1 or 0.01 microfarad ceramic disc) connected
from the lifted end of the shield to the chassis. (This is
referred to as the “hybrid shield termination” where the
sending end is bonded to the chassis and the receiving
end is capacitively coupled. See Neutrik’s EMC-XLR
for example.) The fact that many modern day installers still follow this one-end-only rule with consistent
success indicates this and other acceptable solutions to
FEMALE
2
C
3
1
RED
BLACK
SHIELD
RF issues exist, though the increasing use of digital and
wireless technology greatly increases the possibility of
future RF problems.
If you’ve truly isolated your hum problem to a specific unit, chances are, even though the documentation
indicates proper chassis grounded shields, the suspect
unit is not internally grounded properly. Here is where
special test cable assemblies, shown in Figure 3, really
come in handy. These assemblies allow you to connect
the shield to chassis ground at the point of entry, or to
pin 1, or to lift one end of the shield. The task becomes
more difficult when the unit you’ve isolated has multiple inputs and outputs. On a suspect unit with multiple
cables, try various configurations on each connection
to find out if special cable assemblies are needed at
more than one point.
See Figure 4 for suggested cable assemblies for your
particular interconnection needs. Find the appropriate output configuration (down the left side) and then
match this with the correct input configuration (across
the top of the page.) Then refer to the following pages
for a recommended wiring diagram.
Ground Lifts
Many units come equipped with ground lift switches.
In only a few cases can it be shown that a ground lift
switch improves ground related noise. (Has a ground
lift switch ever really worked for you?) In reality, the
presence of a ground lift switch greatly reduces a unit’s
ability to be “properly” grounded and therefore immune to ground loop hums and buzzes. Ground lifts
are simply another Band-Aid® to try in case of grounding problems. It is true that an entire system of properly grounded equipment, without ground lift switches,
is guaranteed (yes guaranteed) to be hum free. The
problem is most equipment is not (both internally and
externally, AC system wise) grounded properly.
Most units with ground lifts are shipped so the unit
is “grounded” — meaning the chassis is connected to
audio signal ground. (This should be the best and is
the “safest” position for a ground lift switch.) If after
hooking up your system it exhibits excessive hum or
2-CONDUCTOR SHIELDED CABLE
RED
BLACK
SHIELD
MALE
2
3
1
TEST
WIRE
Figure 3. Test cable
Interconnection-4
GROUND CLIP
buzzing, there is an incompatibility somewhere in the
system’s grounding configuration. In addition to these
special cable assemblies that may help, here are some
more things to try:
1. Try combinations of lifting grounds on units supplied with lift switches (or links). It is wise to do this
with the power off!
2. If you have an entirely balanced system, verify all
chassis are tied to a good earth ground, for safety’s
sake and hum protection. Completely unbalanced
systems never earth ground anything (except cable
TV, often a ground loop source). If you have a mixed
balanced and unbalanced system, do yourself a favor
and use isolation transformers or, if you can’t do
that, try the special cable assemblies described here
and expect it to take many hours to get things quiet.
May the Force be with you.
3. Balanced units with outboard power supplies (wall
warts or “bumps” in the line cord) do not ground the
chassis through the line cord. Make sure such units
are solidly grounded by tying the chassis to an earth
ground using a star washer for a reliable contact.
(Rane always provides this chassis point as an external screw with a toothed washer.) Any device with
a 3-prong AC plug, such as an amplifier, may serve
as an earth ground point. Rack rails may or may not
serve this purpose depending on screw locations and
paint jobs.
Floating, Pseudo, and Quasi-Balancing
During inspection, you may run across a ¼" output
called floating unbalanced, sometimes also called psuedo-balanced or quasi-balanced. In this configuration,
the sleeve of the output stage is not connected inside
the unit and the ring is connected (usually through a
small resistor) to the audio signal ground. This allows
the tip and ring to “appear” as an equal impedance,
not-quite balanced output stage, even though the output circuitry is unbalanced.
Floating unbalanced often works to drive either a
balanced or unbalanced input, depending if a TS or
TRS standard cable is plugged into it. When it hums, a
special cable is required. See drawings #11 and #12, and
do not make the cross-coupled modification of tying
the ring and sleeve together.
Winning the Wiring Wars
• Use balanced connections whenever possible, with
the shield bonded to the metal chassis at both ends.
• Transformer isolate all unbalanced connections
from balanced connections.
• Use special cable assemblies when unbalanced lines
cannot be transformer isolated.
• Any unbalanced cable must be kept under 10 feet
(3 m) in length. Lengths longer than this will amplify all the nasty side effects of unbalanced circuitry's
ground loops.
Summary
If you are unable to do things correctly (i.e. use fully
balanced wiring with shields tied to the chassis at both
ends, or transformer isolate all unbalanced signals
from balanced signals) then there is no guarantee that
a hum-free interconnect can be achieved, nor is there a
definite scheme that will assure noise-free operation in
all configurations.
References
1. Neil A. Muncy, “Noise Susceptibility in Analog and Digital Signal Processing Systems,” presented at the 97th AES
Convention of Audio Engineering Society in San Francisco, CA, Nov. 1994.
2. Grounding, Shielding, and Interconnections in Analog
& Digital Signal Processing Systems: Understanding the
Basics; Workshops designed and presented by Neil Muncy
and Cal Perkins, at the 97th AES Convention of Audio
Engineering Society in San Francisco, CA, Nov. 1994.
3. The entire June 1995 AES Journal, Vol. 43, No. 6, available
$6 members, $11 nonmembers from the Audio Engineering Society, 60 E. 42nd St., New York, NY, 10165-2520.
4. Phillip Giddings, Audio System Design and Installation
(SAMS, Indiana, 1990).
5. Ralph Morrison, Noise and Other Interfering Signals
(Wiley, New York, 1992).
6. Henry W. Ott, Noise Reduction Techniques in Electronic
Systems, 2nd Edition (Wiley, New York, 1988).
7. Cal Perkins, “Measurement Techniques for Debugging
Electronic Systems and Their Instrumentation,” The Proceedings of the 11th International AES Conference: Audio
Test & Measurement, Portland, OR, May 1992, pp. 82-92
(Audio Engineering Society, New York, 1992).
8. Macatee, RaneNote: “Grounding and Shielding Audio
Devices,” Rane Corporation, 1994.
9. Philip Giddings, “Grounding and Shielding for Sound and
Video,” S&VC, Sept. 20th, 1995.
10. AES48-2005: AES standard on interconnections —
Grounding and EMC practices — Shields of connectors
in audio equipment containing active circuitry (Audio
Engineering Society, New York, 2005).
Band-Aid is a registered trademark of Johnson & Johnson
Interconnection-5
To Input
CABLE
CONNECTORS
MALE
BALANCED XLR
FEMALE BALANCED XLR
(NOT A TRANSFORMER,
NOR A CROSS-COUPLED
OUTPUT STAGE)
From Output
FEMALE BALANCED XLR
(EITHER A TRANSFORMER
OR A CROSS-COUPLED
OUTPUT STAGE)
¼” BALANCED TRS
(NOT A TRANSFORMER,
NOR A CROSS-COUPLED
OUTPUT STAGE)
¼” BALANCED TRS
(EITHER A TRANSFORMER
OR A CROSS-COUPLED
OUTPUT STAGE)
¼” FLOATING UNBALANCED
TRS (TIP-RING-SLEEVE)
(SLEEVE IN UNIT = NC)
¼” OR 3.5 mm
UNBALANCED
TS (TIP-SLEEVE)
UNBALANCED RCA
(TIP-SLEEVE)
BALANCED
EUROBLOCK
¼" BALANCED
TRS (TIP-RING-SLEEVE)
¼" OR 3.5mm
UNBALANCED
TS (TIP-SLEEVE)
UNBALANCED RCA
1
2
3
4
1
2
5
6
B
B
BALANCED
EUROBLOCK
+ to +
– to –
SHIELD NC
+ to +
– to –
SHIELD NC
+ to +
– to –
7
8
9
10
7
8
11
12
21
22
11
12
GROUND to GROUND
13
14
15
16
23
17
18
19
20
23
+ to +
– to –
+ to +
– to –
24
+ to +
– to –
A
SHIELD ONLY
TO XLR PIN 1
A
SHIELD ONLY
TO TRS SLEEVE
B
A
A
24
B
A
A
SHIELD ONLY
TO EUROBLOCK
+ to +
– to –
SHIELD NC
+ to +
– to –
GROUND to GROUND
Figure 4. Interconnect chart for locating correct cable assemblies on the following pages.
Note: (A) This configuration uses an “off-the-shelf” cable.
Note: (B) This configuration causes a 6 dB signal loss. Compensate by “turning the system up” 6 dB.
Interconnection-6
2-CONDUCTOR SHIELDED CABLE
2
FEMALE
1=SHIELD
RED
2
2=RED
BLACK
C 3
3=BLACK
SHIELD
1
2-CONDUCTOR SHIELDED CABLE
3
FEMALE
1=SHIELD
RED
2
2=RED
C 3
B 3=NC
SHIELD
1
1-CONDUCTOR SHIELDED CABLE
4
FEMALE
1=SHIELD
RED
2
2=RED
C 3
B 3=NC
SHIELD
1
1-CONDUCTOR SHIELDED CABLE
From Output
5
6
FEMALE
1=SHIELD
RED
2
2-CONDUCTOR SHIELDED CABLE
2=RED
BLACK
C 3
3=BLACK
SHIELD
1
CROSS-COUPLED OUTPUT ONLY: CONNECT PIN 1 TO PIN 3 AT THIS END
AND SET GROUND LIFT SWITCH TO ‘GROUNDED’ (IF PRESENT).
7
RED
BLACK
SHIELD
2-CONDUCTOR SHIELDED CABLE
8
T=RED
R=BLACK
S=SHIELD
RED
BLACK
SHIELD
2-CONDUCTOR SHIELDED CABLE
9B
T=RED
R=NC
S=SHIELD
T=RED
10B R=NC
S=SHIELD
T=RED
R=BLACK
S=SHIELD
RED
1-CONDUCTOR SHIELDED CABLE
RED
SHIELD
RED
BLACK
SHIELD
1
3
1=NC
2=RED
3=BLACK
RED
T=RED
S=SHIELD
SHIELD
RED
T=RED
S=SHIELD
SHIELD
RED
BLACK
T=RED
S=BLACK
RED
BLACK
RED
BLACK
N/C
T=RED
S=BLACK
MALE
2
1
3
1=NC
2=RED
3=BLACK
RED
BLACK
N/C
T=RED
R=BLACK
S=NC
RED
T=RED
S=BLACK
RED
1-CONDUCTOR SHIELDED CABLE
2-CONDUCTOR SHIELDED CABLE
2
T=RED
R=BLACK
S=NC
SHIELD
SHIELD
MALE
RED
BLACK
N/C
FEMALE
1=SHIELD
RED
2
2-CONDUCTOR SHIELDED CABLE
BLACK
2=RED
C 3
SHIELD
3=BLACK
1
CROSS-COUPLED OUTPUT ONLY: CONNECT PIN 1 TO PIN 3 AT THIS END
AND SET GROUND LIFT SWITCH TO ‘GROUNDED’ (IF PRESENT).
T=RED
R=BLACK
S=SHIELD
11
RED
BLACK
N/C
SHIELD
RED
BLACK
To Input
1
FEMALE
1=SHIELD
RED
2
2=RED
BLACK
C 3
3=BLACK
SHIELD
1
T=RED
S=SHIELD
T=RED
S=BLACK
CROSS-COUPLED OUTPUT ONLY: CONNECT RING TO SLEEVE
AT THIS END AND SET GROUND LIFT SWITCH TO ‘GROUNDED’ (IF PRESENT).
12
T=RED
R=BLACK
S=SHIELD
RED
RED
2-CONDUCTOR SHIELDED CABLE
BLACK
BLACK
SHIELD
CROSS-COUPLED OUTPUT ONLY: CONNECT RING TO SLEEVE
AT THIS END AND SET GROUND LIFT SWITCH TO ‘GROUNDED’ (IF PRESENT).
T=RED
S=BLACK
Interconnection-7
From Output
14
RED
BLACK
N/C
2-CONDUCTOR SHIELDED CABLE
T=RED
S=BLACK
RED
BLACK
N/C
2-CONDUCTOR SHIELDED CABLE
15A
T=RED
S=SHIELD
16A
T=RED
S=SHIELD
17
18
T=RED
S=BLACK
T=RED
S=BLACK
19A
T=RED
S=SHIELD
20A
T=RED
S=SHIELD
RED
SHIELD
RED
SHIELD
RED
BLACK
1-CONDUCTOR SHIELDED CABLE
RED
1-CONDUCTOR SHIELDED CABLE
SHIELD
1=SHIELD
3 2=RED
3=BLACK
1
2
T=RED
R=BLACK
S=SHIELD
RED
T=RED
S=SHIELD
SHIELD
RED
1-CONDUCTOR SHIELDED CABLE
2-CONDUCTOR SHIELDED CABLE
MALE
RED
BLACK
SHIELD
T=RED
S=SHIELD
SHIELD
RED
BLACK
SHIELD
2-CONDUCTOR SHIELDED CABLE
RED
BLACK
MALE
2
1
3
RED
T=RED
S=SHIELD
RED
1-CONDUCTOR SHIELDED CABLE
SHIELD
T=RED
R=BLACK
A S=SHIELD
RED
BLACK
SHIELD
2-CONDUCTOR SHIELDED CABLE
22A
T=RED
R=BLACK
S=SHIELD
RED
BLACK
SHIELD
2-CONDUCTOR SHIELDED CABLE
23
(ANY UNBALANCED CONNECTOR)
RED
BLACK
T=RED
S=BLACK
2-CONDUCTOR SHIELDED CABLE
T=RED
S=SHIELD
SHIELD
RED
BLACK
SHIELD
RED
BLACK
SHIELD
1=SHIELD
2=RED
3=BLACK
T=RED
R=BLACK
S=SHIELD
RED
BLACK
SHIELD
SHIELD
RED
21
RED
BLACK
SHIELD
To Input
13
T=RED
S=BLACK
MALE
2
1
3
1=SHIELD
2=RED
3=BLACK
T=RED
R=BLACK
S=SHIELD
(CHECK: NO STANDARD POLARITY ON EUROBLOCKS)
RED
+
BLACK
SHIELD
–
(CHECK: NO STANDARD POLARITY ON EUROBLOCKS)
24
–
+
RED
BLACK
SHIELD
RED (ANY UNBALANCED CONNECTOR)
T=RED
BLACK
S=BLACK
CROSS-COUPLED OUTPUT ONLY: CONNECT BLACK TO SHIELD AT THIS END
AND SET GROUND LIFT SWITCH TO ‘GROUNDED’ (IF PRESENT).
2-CONDUCTOR SHIELDED CABLE
©Rane Corporation 10802 47th Ave. W., Mukilteo WA 98275-5000 USA TEL 425-355-6000 FAX 425-347-7757 WEB www.rane.com
Interconnection-8
DOC 102907
WARRANTY
FACTORY AUTHORIZED SERVICE
Your unit may someday need to be serviced by the Rane Factory if you live in the USA. International customers should contact your
dealer or distributor for service. You must call the Rane factory before shipping. Please do not return your unit to Rane without prior
authorization.
Rane Corporation
To obtain service or a Return Authorization in the USA, please phone 425-355-6000
or Fax 425-347-7757
LIMITED DOMESTIC WARRANTY
RANE CORPORATION WARRANTS ALL RANE PRODUCTS (EXCEPT THOSE ITEMS CLASSIFIED AS WEAR PARTS, AND LISTED ON THE
MANUAL-1 PAGE OF EACH OPERATORS MANUAL) PURCHASED IN THE U.S. AGAINST DEFECTS IN MATERIAL OR WORKMANSHIP
FOR A PERIOD OF TWO (2) YEARS. WEAR PARTS ARE LIMITED TO A PERIOD OF NINETY (90) DAYS FROM THE INITIAL DATE OF
RETAIL PURCHASE FROM AN AUTHORIZED RANE DEALER—WEAR PARTS REQUIRE PROOF OF PURCHASE DATE. This limited
warranty extends to all purchasers or owners of the product during the warranty period beginning with the original retail purchase. Rane Corporation
does not, however, warrant its products against any and all defects: 1) arising out of material or workmanship not provided or furnished by Rane, or
2) resulting from abnormal use of the product or use in violation of instructions, or 3) in products repaired or serviced by other than the Rane Factory,
or 4) in products with removed or defaced serial numbers, or 5) in components or parts or products expressly warranted by another manufacturer. Rane
agrees to supply all parts and labor to repair or replace defects covered by this limited warranty with parts or products of original or improved design, at
its option in each respect, if the defective product is shipped prior to the end of the warranty period to the Rane Factory in the original packaging or a
replacement supplied by Rane, with all transportation costs and full insurance paid each way by the purchaser or owner.
LIMITED WARRANTY OUTSIDE THE U.S.A.
RANE PRODUCTS ARE WARRANTED ONLY IN THE COUNTRY WHERE PURCHASED, THROUGH THE AUTHORIZED RANE
DISTRIBUTOR IN THAT COUNTRY, AGAINST DEFECTS IN MATERIAL OR WORKMANSHIP, THE SPECIFIC PERIOD OF THIS
LIMITED WARRANTY SHALL BE THAT WHICH IS DESCRIBED TO THE ORIGINAL RETAIL PURCHASER BY THE AUTHORIZED
RANE DEALER OR DISTRIBUTOR AT THE TIME OF PURCHASE. Rane Corporation does not, however, warrant its products against any and
all defects: 1) arising out of materials or workmanship not provided or furnished by Rane, or 2) resulting from abnormal use of the product or use in
violation of instructions, or 3) in products repaired or serviced by other than authorized Rane repair facilities, or 4) in products with removed or defaced
serial numbers, or 5) in components or parts or products expressly warranted by another manufacturer. Rane agrees, through the applicable authorized
distributor, to repair or replace defects covered by this limited warranty with parts or products of original or improved design, at its option in each respect,
if the defective product is shipped prior to the end of the warranty period to the designated authorized Rane warranty repair facility in the country
where purchased, or to the Rane factory in the U.S., in the original packaging or a replacement supplied by Rane, with all transportation costs and full
insurance paid each way by the purchaser or owner.
ALL REMEDIES AND THE MEASURE OF DAMAGES ARE LIMITED TO THE ABOVE SERVICES, IT IS POSSIBLE THAT ECONOMIC
LOSS OR INJURY TO PERSON OR PROPERTY MAY RESULT FROM THE FAILURE OF THE PRODUCT; HOWEVER, EVEN IF RANE
HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THIS POSSIBILITY, THIS LIMITED WARRANTY DOES NOT COVER ANY SUCH CONSEQUENTIAL OR
INCIDENTAL DAMAGES. SOME STATES OR COUNTRIES DO NOT ALLOW THE LIMITATIONS OR EXCLUSION OF INCIDENTAL
OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, SO THE ABOVE LIMITATION MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.
ANY AND ALL WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, ARISING BY LAW, COURSE OF DEALING, COURSE OF PERFORMANCE, USAGE
OF TRADE, OR OTHERWISE, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS
FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, ARE LIMITED TO A PERIOD OF TWO (2) YEARS FROM EITHER THE DATE OF ORIGINAL RETAIL
PURCHASE OR, IN THE EVENT NO PROOF OF PURCHASE DATE IS AVAILABLE, THE DATE OF MANUFACTURE, SOME STATES
OR COUNTRIES DO NOT ALLOW LIMITATIONS ON HOW LONG AN IMPLIED WARRANTY LASTS, SO THE ABOVE LIMITATIONS
MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU. THIS LIMITED WARRANTY GIVES YOU SPECIFIC LEGAL RIGHTS, AND YOU MAY ALSO HAVE OTHER
RIGHTS WHICH VARY FROM STATE TO STATE, COUNTRY TO COUNTRY.
Warranty-1
WARRANTY PROCEDURE - Valid in USA only
NOTICE! You must complete and return the warranty card or register your
product online to extend the Warranty from 2 years to 3 years!
TO VALIDATE YOUR EXTENDED WARRANTY: Use the postcard that came in the box with your unit, or go to www.rane.com and
click on New Product Registration. Fill out the warranty completely, being sure to include the model and serial number of the unit
since this is how warranties are tracked. If your Rane product was purchased in the U.S.A., mail the completed card or register online
with to Rane Corporation within 10 days from the date of purchase. If you purchased the product outside the U.S.A. you must file
your warranty registration with the Rane Distributor in that country. It is advised that you keep your bill of sale as proof of purchase,
should any difficulties arise concerning the registration of the warranty card. NOTICE: IT IS NOT NECESSARY TO REGISTER IN
ORDER TO RECEIVE RANE CORPORATION’S STANDARD TWO YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY.
WARRANTY REGISTRATION is made and tracked by MODEL AND SERIAL NUMBERS ONLY, not by the purchaser’s or owner’s
name. Therefore any warranty correspondence or inquires MUST include the model and serial number of the product in question. Be
sure to fill in the model and serial number in the space provided below and keep this in a safe place for future reference.
WARRANTY SERVICE MUST BE PERFORMED ONLY BY AN AUTHORIZED RANE SERVICE FACILITY LOCATED IN
THE COUNTRY WHERE THE UNIT WAS PURCHASED, OR (if product was purchased in the U.S.) AT THE RANE FACTORY
IN THE U.S.. If the product is being sent to Rane for repair, please call the factory for a Return Authorization number. We recommend
advance notice be given to the repair facility to avoid possible needless shipment in case the problem can be solved over the phone.
UNAUTHORIZED SERVICE PERFORMED ON ANY RANE PRODUCT WILL VOID ITS EXISTING FACTORY WARRANTY.
FACTORY SERVICE: If you wish your Rane product to be serviced at the factory, it must be shipped FULLY INSURED, IN THE
ORIGINAL PACKING OR EQUIVALENT. This warranty will NOT cover repairs on products damaged through improper packaging.
If possible, avoid sending products through the mail. Be sure to include in the package:
1. Complete return street shipping address (P.O. Box numbers are NOT acceptable).
2. A detailed description of any problems experienced, including the make and model numbers of any other system equipment.
3. Remote power supply, if applicable.
Repaired products purchased in the U.S. will be returned prepaid freight via the same method they were sent to Rane. Products purchased
in the U.S., but sent to the factory from outside the U.S. MUST include return freight funds, and the sender is fully responsible for all
customs procedures, duties, tariffs and deposits.
In order to qualify for Rane’s one year extended warranty (for a total of 3
years parts and labor), the warranty must be completely filled out and sent to
us immediately. Valid in USA only.
We recommend you write your serial number here in your owners
manual and on your sales receipt for your records.
SERIAL NUMBER:______________________________________PURCHASE DATE:_____________________________
©Rane Corporation 10802 47th Ave. W., Mukilteo WA 98275-5000 TEL 425-355-6000 FAX 425-347-7757 WEB www.rane.com
Warranty-2
Declaration of Conformity
Application of
Council Directive(s):
Standard(s) to which
conformity is declared:
2002/96/EC
2011/65/EU
EN60065:2002/A1:2006/A11:2008
EN50581:2012
SERIAL NUMBERS 850000 - 950000
Manufacturer:
Rane Corporation
10802 47th Avenue West
Mukilteo WA 98275-5000 USA
High quality shielded cable must be used for interconnection to other equipment. Modification of the equipment, other
than that expressly outlined by the manufacturer, is not allowed. This declaration of conformity is issued under the sole
responsibility of Rane Corporation.
Type of Equipment: Professional Audio Signal Processing
Brand: Rane
Model: G4
Immunity Results:
Test Description
RF Electromagnetic Fields Immunity
80 MHz -1000 MHz, 1 kHz AM, 80% depth, 3V/m
Conducted RF Disturbances Immunity
150 kHz - 80 MHz, 1 kHz AM, 80% depth, 3V RMS
Magnetic Fields Immunity
50Hz - 10kHz, 4.0 - 0.4 A/m
A-weighted quasi-peak noise (AC 24 tested)
Results
Conditions
< -70 dBu
80 Mhz -1000 MHz
< -67 dBu
< -62 dBu
Power Lines, 150 kHz - 80 MHz
Signal & Control Lines, 80 MHz
< -68 dBu
50 Hz - 10 kHz
I, the undersigned, hereby declare that the equipment specified above conforms
to the Directive(s) and Standard(s) shown above.
(Signature)
Roy G. Gill
Compliance Engineer
(Full Name)
(Position)
December 16, 2010
Mukilteo WA USA
(Date)
(Place)
106219
G4
100-240V
50/60 Hz 20 WATTS
COMMERCIAL AUDIO
EQUIPMENT 24TJ
MADE IN U.S.A.
RANE CORP.
FOR CONTINUED
GROUNDING
PROTECTION
DO NOT REMOVE
SCREW
OUTPUT 4
INPUT 4
OUTPUT 3
OUTPUT 2
TIP / PIN 2 = POSITIVE
RING / PIN 3 = NEGATIVE
SLEEVE = SIGNAL GROUND
PIN 1 = CHASSIS GROUND
WIRING
INPUT 3
INPUT 2
INPUT 1
CH 4
CH 2
CH 3
CH 1
SIDE-CHAIN
THIS DEVICE COMPLIES WITH PART 15 OF THE FCC RULES. OPERATION IS SUBJECT TO THE FOLLOWING
TWO CONDITIONS: (1) THIS DEVICE MAY NOT CAUSE HARMFUL INTERFERENCE, AND (2) THIS DEVICE
MUST ACCEPT ANY INTERFERENCE RECEIVED, INCLUDING INTERFERENCE THAT MAY CAUSE
UNDESIRED OPERATION. THIS CLASS B DIGITAL APPARATUS COMPLIES WITH CANADIAN ICES-003. CET
APPAREIL NUMÉRIQUE DE LA CLASSE B EST CONFORME À LA NORME NMB-003 DU CANADA.
OUTPUT 1
G4
GATE