M X 2 5 0
O W N E R ’ S
M A N U A L
The MX250 Close-Coupled Electronic Processor™ (CCEP) is a two-channel,two-way electronic crossover designed for
use in both fixed installations and touring sound systems.It is factory-configured for use with specific EAW loudspeaker
systems.This ensures optimum system performance and relieves the end user from the burden of configuration.
This design continues EAW’s commitment to the primary importance of total system design in controlling a
loudspeaker’s ability to maximize its outputs within your application.
Features Overview
The MX250 CCEP™ incorporates a unique combination of features and design innovations that set it apart from conventional crossover
networks and permit its precise adjustment for a particular EAW speaker system.EAW Engineering completed all the guesswork that you would
normally perform with a conventional crossover in an attempt to attain the optimum parameters for each speaker system.
NON-COINCIDENT FILTERS
When necessary,the MX250 CCEP incorporates a non-coincident filter system.This means that the high-frequency and low-frequency filters
aren’t restricted to the same corner frequency—contributing to the system’s overall superior acoustic performance.The filter types for both
high frequencies and low frequencies are 24 dB-per-octave Linkwitz-Riley.Careful analysis of the MX250’s electrical performance and the loudspeaker’s acoustical performance remain key elements in the close coupling of the crossover to a particular speaker system.The end result of
the close coupling process corrects acoustic response at the crossover frequency rather than depending on an “idealized”electrical response.
Optimum crossover frequencies and filter shapes for each speaker system configuration have been determined,and incorporated at the
factory as the MX250 CCEP’s presets.The label on the rear of the unit confirms the configuration.
Technical Description
OPERATIONAL SUMMARY
The MX250 CCEP functions as a stereo two-way crossover or as a stereo two-way crossover with additional summed monaural low and high
outputs.EAW presets the MX250 as part of the configuration process.Unlike most outboard crossover devices,we optimize this device for a
particular combination of EAW subwoofers and full-range speakers or for bi-amping specific EAW full-range systems.The configuration of
your unit is labeled on the back of the MX250 CCEP chassis.
The crossover filters use 4th order Linkwitz-Riley alignments,which yield a 24 dB per octave slope.By measuring the actual acoustical output
of the various combinations of EAW speakers,EAW’s Engineering department has calculated the optimal crossover frequencies for each
configuration.Your MX250 CCEP has been preset at the factory using separate high-pass and low-pass filter modules.The summed output
configuration is also preset at the factory.
If you wish to reconfigure your MX250 CCEP for a different speaker system contact the EAW Service Department at 800-992-5013
(508-234-6158),fax 508-234-3376.The MX250 CCEP is not intended to be modified in the field.
ENCLOSURE
The steel chassis of the MX250 CCEP is designed and built to withstand the abuse and jostling of portable and mobile applications while
ensuring reliable operation.The chassis is one rack-space tall (1.75 in.; 44.5 mm) and has a depth of 8.16 in.(207.3 mm).
The inputs and outputs are 3-pin XLR connectors on the rear panel of the chassis; two females for the inputs,and six males for the outputs.
AC POWER
The MX250 CCEP has a universal power supply compatible with virtually any AC power source throughout the world today.An internal switch
sets the power supply for either 95-130 VAC (50-60 Hz) or 190-260 VAC (50-60 Hz) operation.A label on the rear of the MX250 indicates the
factory voltage setting.
The AC power line cord attaches to the MX250 CCEP chassis via an IEC-230 connector on the rear panel.Check and insure the AC line cord
mains cable and voltage setting are correct for the power source.An incorrect voltage switch setting could cause severe damage to the unit.
1
Right Outputs
(Right Outputs)
CX300
(MX250)
-3
-2
-1 0 +1
+2
+3
-6
-9
-12
Power
+6
High
(High)
Left Outputs
Inputs
PUSH
PUSH
Left
Right
Low
-2
-3
+9
+12
-1 0 +1
+2
+3
-6
-9
-12
Mid
(None)
Center Outputs
(Right/Left Summed)
-3
-2
-1 0 +1
+2
+3
-2
-3
-1 0 +1
+2
+3
Low
-2
-1 0 +1
+2
+3
-3
Left Outputs
(Left Outputs)
-1 0 +1
+2
+3
-2
-3
-2
-1 0 +1
+2
+3
-3
-2
+6 -6
+6 -6
+6 -6
+6 -6
+6 -6
+6 -6
+9 -9
+12 -12
+9 -9
+12 -12
+9 -9
+12 -12
+9 -9
+12 -12
+9 -9
+12 -12
+9 -9
+12 -12
Low
(Low)
High
(High)
Summed Outputs
High
-3
Mid
(None)
Low
(Low)
High
(High)
-1 0 +1
+2
+3
-2
-3
-1 0 +1
+2
+3
+6
Mid
(None)
+9 -9
+12 -12
Low
(Low)
+9
+12
Right Outputs
High
Low
High
3
2
1
(+) (-)
CAUTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
One Main Street, Whitinsville, MA 01588
120VAC
50-60Hz
12W
The power switch on the front panel switches the AC on and off.No current flows when this switch is in the “off”position.A power LED on the
front panel confirms that the unit is correctly powered up.
CONNECTING THE MX250 CCEP
Care should be taken to ensure that pin #3 of the MX250 input XLR is always connected.If connected to a balanced (differential) signal source,
pin #3 should be connected to the negative (i.e.,inverting or “-”) signal line.If driven by an unbalanced (single-ended) source,pin #3 must be
tied to ground in order to avoid a significant loss in signal.The following diagram illustrates one example of how this is done.
SIGNAL
GND
PIN #2
PIN #3
PIN #1
INPUT SIGNAL CONNECTION
Input signal connections are through the female XLRs.The MX250’s inputs have actively-balanced differential amplifiers.Whenever possible,
use the inputs in a balanced configuration.This helps minimize hum and noise pickup from the input signal cables by maximizing the
common-mode rejection (canceling voltages common to both the + and - input terminals).
The input XLRs are wired as follows:
2+
31
non-inverting input
inverting input
ground
All XLR connectors are wired pin 2 hot (positive).The input impedance of the MX250 CCEP is 20 kΩ balanced,10 kΩ or greater unbalanced.
OUTPUT SIGNAL CONNECTION
Output signal connections are through the male XLRs.The MX250 has actively-balanced differential output amplifiers.
The outputs are wired as follows:
2
3
1
signal +
signal ground
INTERNAL SERVICING
There are no user-serviceable parts inside the MX250 CCEP.The filter modules,presets,trims,etc.,should not be changed,adjusted,or modified
by anyone other than an EAW authorized service engineer.The settings within the unit are the results of careful testing and are not designed to
be modified in the field.Tampering with them will probably result in audibly inferior performance.It will also void your warranty.POTENTIALLY
LETHAL VOLTAGES ARE PRESENT INSIDE THE MX250,THEREFORE SERVICING SHOULD BE LEFT TO QUALIFIED TECHNICIANS.
2
Practical Considerations
PHYSICAL
The case of the MX250 CCEP is fully enclosed to prevent the entry of foreign material and to shield the internal circuitry from most outside
electromagnetic fields.To prevent the circuitry’s picking up hum from inadequately shielded transformers,mount the MX250 CCEP at least two
inches from any power amplifier.Computer monitors,motorized devices,and some other gear may emit strong hum or electromagnetic fields
also,so exhibit care when mounting the MX250 CCEP near them.
Convection currents from power amplifiers and other such heat-producing equipment could cause the MX250 CCEP to run hotter than it
should,perhaps eventually causing premature failure of the electronic components and/or power supply.Make sure there is adequate
ventilation in the equipment rack – use fans if there is any concern.
ENVIRONMENTAL
As with all electronic equipment,avoid using the MX250 CCEP in damp or excessively humid conditions.In outdoor applications,protect the
unit from rain and precipitation or any other dampness.If some mishap causes the unit to get wet or damp,dry it out thoroughly before using
it again.
CLEANING
You can clean the exterior of the MX250 CCEP with a slightly damp cloth.Use a small amount of mild detergent or cleaning fluid if necessary.
Do not use petroleum spirits,thinners,or other solvent cleaners – they might seriously damage the finish.
SPECIFICATIONS:
Inputs
Input Impedance
Max.Input Level
Outputs
Output Source Impedance
Output Min.Load
Output Max.Level
Frequency Resp.
Noise
Dynamic Range
Total Harmonic Distortion
Gain
Gain at Unity Setting
Input Connectors
Output Connectors
Power Connector
Power
Power Consumption
Net Weight
Shipping Weight
Dimensions
Two; active balanced
> 20k Ohms
+22dBu
Six; active balanced
200 Ohms
600 Ohms
+26dBu into 600 Ohm load
+/- 0.5dB 20Hz - 20kHz
< -90dBu,20Hz - 20kHz unwtd
110dB
< 0.003% 20Hz - 20kHz,0dBu
+/- 12dB from unity setting
0dB unbalanced out,6dB balanced out within passband
3-pin female XLR
3-pin male XLR
3 pin IEC
95-130 VAC,190-260 VAC; 50-60Hz
< 15 watts
8.5 pounds (3.9kg)
10 pounds (4.5kg)
1.75 (1U) X 19.00 X 8.16 inches (44 X 483 X 207mm)
3
System Sensitivities
For the Direct Radiating Sub configuration a default gain adjustment of +5dB on the sub output is factory preset. For
the Horn Loaded Sub configuration a default gain adjustment of 0 dB is factory preset.Amplifier gains, environment,
and personal taste may require the further level adjustment. The following list of sensitivities is for EAW products commonly used with the MX250.Use this reference to fine tune your particular combination of sub and full range products.
This is easily done by removing the front panel of the MX250 and adjusting the gains to meet your needs.
Full Range
AS300e
CP621
DC5
DC6
DS122e
DS123e
DS153e
DS223e
FL103
FR129z
FR153z
FR159z
FR122e
FR152e
FR153e
FR253e
JF50S
JF60
JF80
JF100e
JF200e
JF260z
JF290z
JF560z
JF590z
KF300e
L8CX2XO
4
98
101
97
95
98
97
98
99
95
97
97
100
98
98
98
101
91
90
93
97
98
97
97
97
97
99
90
Full Range
LA212
LA215
LA325
LA460
LS432
LS832
MK2164
MK2194
MK5164
MK5194
MK8196
MS20
MS30Ci
MS63
MS103
SM122e
SM155e
SM200iH
SM260iV
SM400iH
SM500iV
UB12Se
UB22i
UB42
UB72
UB80
UB82
97
97
100
97
95
97
97
97
96
97
95
88
90
95
95
99
98
98
98
101
98
89
94
94
94
92
95
Subsytems
BH822e
DCS2
FR250z
KF940
LA118
LA128
LA400
SB48e
SB120
SB150
SB180
SB250
SB330e
SB528
SB600e
SB625P
SB750
SB850F
SB850P
SB850R
SB1000e
SB184C
SB185C
SB284C
SB284CP
109
107
101
109
95
98
107
92
96
95
96
98
96
99
98
98
99
99
99
99
99
96
96
99
99
Left C hannel
Input
+
-
(+)
(-)
Gnd
Par ametr ic EQ
(RN _0 9 )
IN V
B alanced
Outputs
180°
HIGH
0°
4 th Order Hi-Pass
(RN _0 7 )
4 th Order Lo-Pass
(RN _0 8 )
Out+
(+)
(-)
Gnd
H igh
Out-
Left C hannel
Outputs
180°
LOW
0°
2 th Order All-Pass
(RN _0 1 )
4 th Order Hi-Pass
W ith Var iable "Q"
(RN _0 3 & RN _0 9 -1 )
4 th Order Lo-Pass
(RN _0 2 )
Out+
(+)
(-)
Gnd
Lo w
Out-
Lef t/ Right
S um med
Input
S UM
Par ametr ic EQ
(RN _0 9 )
IN V
180°
HIGH
0°
4 th Order Hi-Pass
(RN _0 7 )
4 th Order Lo-Pass
(RN _0 8 )
Out+
(+)
(-)
Gnd
H igh
Out-
Su mmed
C hannel Input
Summed-Mono
Outputs
180°
LOW
0°
2 th Order All-Pass
(RN _0 1 )
4 th Order Hi-Pass
W ith Var iable "Q"
(RN _0 3 & RN _0 9 -1 )
4 th Order Lo-Pass
(RN _0 2 )
Out+
(+)
(-)
Gnd
Lo w
Out-
Right C hannel
Input
+
-
(+)
(-)
Gnd
Par ametr ic EQ
(RN _0 9 )
IN V
180°
HIGH
0°
4 th Order Hi-Pass
(RN _0 7 )
4 th Order Lo-Pass
(RN _0 8 )
Out+
(+)
(-)
Gnd
H igh
Out-
Right C hannel
Outputs
Pin Ass ignment
2
3
1
(+)
(-)
Gnd
180°
LOW
0°
2 th Order All-Pass
(RN _0 1 )
4 th Order All-Pass
W ith Var iable "Q"
(RN _0 3 & RN _0 9 -1 )
4 th Order Lo-Pass
(RN _0 2 )
Out+
(+)
(-)
Gnd
Out-
5
M X2 5 0 B LOC K DIAGRA M
Lo w
* -A
* +A
10k
U_01B
J5
ACINLET
IEC 320
NEUT
GROUND
HOT
J1
-
+
RN_09-5
* F
+
S1
SW1
OUT
120V
J3
0 R3
0 R4
U_09B
+
L
SW2
R
IN
240V
4
3
2
120/240 1
U3A
* 4 C_08
.7071
Fr =
(Pi)RC
3
2
L1
8
6-7
5
(NONE)
4003 4003
D2 D7
T =
1%
R_14
4.99K
C2
C3
+
POWER
R1
D6 1.5K
4003
D1
YEL
D5
4003 R2
1.5K
1%
R_16
10.0K
RN_09-1
* R
Q
HI IN
0
180
U_09A
-
1.5uF
1000
C1
35V
U1 1
2
3
7915
4003
+
R_10
10k
U_07A
-
R_15
10.0k 1%
U2
7815 3
2
C4
1.5uF
1000
35V
1
D9
4003
GROUP DELAY
TIME (S)
+
180
R_11
10k
INPUT INVERTER
27p
C_05
R_13
10.0k 1%
Q
+A
-A
F
Q
F
2
(Pi)Fr
* 6
U_08A
-
4003 4003
.1uF D3 D8
C5
0
RN_09
* 14 PIN DIP
RES. NETWORK
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
.1 C_09
5
* 1 .1
ALL-PASS
FREQUENCY (Hz)
2ND ORDER ALL-PASS
* RN_01 (3)
180
0
LO IN
-
+
RN_09-3
*F
C_07
.01
U_08B
C_06
.01
+
-
LEFT & RIGHT SUM
SW3
R5 10k
R6 10k
-
*
Q
RN_09-4
U_07B
U_01A
10k
R_07
10k
RN_09-6
27P
R_09
C_04
-
CENTER
INPUT
RIGHT
LEFT
FROM LEFT-CEN-RIGHT INPUT
L-U4A
R-U3B
10k
27p
10k
RN_09-7
10k
+
47uF
C_03 +
10k
R_02
+
-
R_05
R_08
R_06
-
10K R_01
R_03 10K
C_01
27p
R_12
10k
3
PARAMETRIC EQ.
2
1
J2
J_08
C_02
CENTER CHANNEL INPUT SUMMING
+
+
BALANCED INPUTS (LEFT-RIGHT)
ONE OF TWO SHOWN
+
+
6
*
3
.1uF
-15V TO ALL OPAMPS
.1uF
+15V TO ALL OPAMPS
+
C_14
+
-
.1
U_03B
D_01
D_02
4
10.0K 1%
R_20
.01
C_34
U_02A
-
1%
R_17 10.0K
C_12 27P
R_18 30K
+
10.0K 1%
R_22
10.0K 1%
R_21
U_02B
-
10.0K 1%
R_23
10.0K
27P
R_19 1%
C_13
R_38
680
R_37
680
C_33
.01
1
+
1
*
+
U_04B
-
C_23
5
*
6
-
C_22
+
U_04A
.1
8
*
7
C_15
+
U_03A
-
.1
2
SCHEMATIC DIAGRAM
MX250 CLOSE COUPLED ELECTRONIC PROCESSOR
.001
C_28
*
.001
1
7
* *
8
5
6
C_10
.01
SCALE:
APPROVED:
NONE
JRD
DRAWING NO.
DRAWN:
5
7 C_19 8
6
*
*
SHEET
10S2125A
+
U_10A
-
1
47u
+
OF
DATE:
REV. A
+
C_57
47u
1
R_52
1k
R_54
10K
C_64
27p
R_56
1k
+
CW
R_51
1k
R_64
1k
R_65
R_66 1k
10K
C_66
27p
R_68
1k
+
27p
10k
U_16B
-
C_56
R_48
+
U_16A
-
R_67 10K
+
C_52
27p
10k
U_14B
-
R_44
R_43
10k
VR_03
10K
R_49
1k
U_14A
-
R_55 10K
R_69
1k
CW
VR_01
10K
R_53
1k
R_57
1k
12/27/99
C_53
DATE:
C_17
.01
.01
4TH ORDER LO-PASS
* RN_02
C_16
.01
+
U_10B
-
.01
C_18
C_29
.001
+
U_06B
-
.001
.001
C_31
4TH ORDER LO-PASS
* RN_08
2.7K RES NET
.01
+
U_05B
-
3 C_11 4
2
*
C_26
4* 1*
3
C_30
WHEN C = .001uF
1
-9
(8.9 x 10 )F
R =
.001
WHEN C = .01uF
1
-8
(8.9 x 10 )F
R =
4th ORDER HI-PASS and LO-PASS FILTERS
C_27
EASTERN ACOUSTIC WORKS
ONE MAIN STREET
WHITINSVILLE, MA 01588
+
U_06A
-
R_39 .01 7 6
680 C_37
*
*
8 5
R_40
680
C_35
.01
4TH ORDER HI-PASS WITH VAR. "Q"
* RN_03
2
.1
U_05A
-
*
*
3 2
4
C_32
.01
C_36
.01
4th ORDER HI-PASS
* RN_07
R_42
R_41
10.0k 1% 10.0k 1%
R_36
R_35
10.0k 1% 10.0k 1%
UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED ALL RESISTORS ARE 5%
ALL CAPACITOR VALUES ARE MICROFARAD
NOTES:
THE "_" PART NUMBER PREFIX REFLECTS WHICH CHANNEL IS USED.
RIGHT CHANNEL = "1xx" - CENTER = "2xx" - LEFT = "3xx"
PART NUMBERS WITH NO "_" PREFIX ARE UNIQUE COMPONENTS
10K
R_71
100
J_05
10K
3
R_79
100
J_06
10K
R_81
R_80
100
R_78 10K
47NP
C_71
R_47
10k
C_72
47NP
3
LOW OUTPUT
R_70
C_67
47NP
R_73
R_72
100
HIGH OUTPUT
C_68
47NP
1
2
1
2
7
All data,drawings and specifications published in this manual are subject to change without notice. EAW assumes no liability for typographical
errors.All the information contained herein has been carefully checked for accuracy.Nevertheless,no warranty whatsoever of product
performance is implied or assumed.
Terms of the EAW Warranty
EAW Professional Active Electronics devices are guaranteed for a period of two years from the date of original purchase against malfunction
due to defects in workmanship and materials.During the warranty period,EAW will remedy all such defects without charge for parts or labor
upon the return of the unit together with its original sales receipt or other proof of purchase to EAW or to an authorized EAW service facility.
This warranty does not extend to damage resulting from improper installation,misuse,neglect or abuse.Defects in or damage to the exterior
appearance of EAW products are specifically excluded from this warranty.In no event shall EAW be liable for incidental or consequential
damages.Repairs and/or modifications by other than EAW or its authorized service facilities automatically void this warranty.This warranty
gives you specific legal rights,and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.For more information concerning EAW service
and warranty policies,contact EAW.
E a s te r n Aco u s t i c Wo r k s
PN 425011 | 06 00
O n e M a i n S t re e t, Wh i t i n s v i l l e, M A 0 1 5 8 8
800 992 5013 / 508 234 6158
w w w. e aw. co m
EAW is the worldwide technological and market leader in the design and manufacture of high-performance, professional loudspeaker systems