Description
<h1 style="text-align: justify;"><strong>mPRESS by Radial Engineering</strong> is an <strong>analog modular Press Box</strong> capable of handling up to <strong>448 outputs</strong>. It features <strong>active drive</strong> with an isolation transformer to eliminate noise and can play background music in standby. It is a useful device for broadcasting and distributing audio signals to press stands during international events.</h1><h3 style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Key Features</strong></h3><ul style="margin-left: 17px;"> <li><strong>Modular press box to manage up to 448 outputs</strong></li> <li><strong>Fully analog, no digital shortcuts!</strong></li> <li><strong>Active drive with isolation transformer to eliminate noise</strong></li> <li><strong>Can play background music when in standby</strong></li></ul><p><img alt="mPress is a Masterhead distribution amplifier equipped with two microphone inputs, 48V Phantom power for condenser microphones, and an integrated limiter to prevent overload caused by overly enthusiastic speakers." src="https://www.algameko.com/images/uploads/Mpress_Double_1200x630.jpg" title="mPress is a Masterhead distribution amplifier equipped with two microphone inputs, 48V Phantom power for condenser microphones, and an integrated limiter to prevent overload caused by overly enthusiastic speakers."></p><p>mPress is a Masterhead distribution amplifier equipped with two microphone inputs, 48V Phantom power for condenser microphones, and an integrated limiter to prevent overload caused by overly enthusiastic speakers. Eight balanced microphone outputs can be used to provide the signal to a small press room. For larger system requirements, a series of modular Exo-Pods can be implemented. These external modules are connected via standard microphone cables and feature ten balanced microphone outputs and four 3.5mm mini TRS outputs to power portable recorders or video cameras. To eliminate hum and noise caused by ground loops, stray DC currents, and imperfect power systems, all outputs are equipped with isolation transformers.</p><p>The modular approach of mPress replaces the tangle of cables that usually hinders the setup of an organized system and allows for the creation of zones for various groups. Up to four Exo-Pods can be daisy-chained from each of the mPress's XLR outputs, for a total of 320 microphones and 128 recorder outputs. An integrated 1 kHz tone-test device provides everyone with a reference level, and the built-in headphone amplifier will assist in troubleshooting. To simplify configurations, a main stereo output is available to power a pair of amplified speakers and broadcast the event to the audience. Separate audio inputs also allow mPress to play background music while waiting for guest speakers.</p><h2><strong>RADIAL mPress Applications</strong></h2><h3><strong>Using mPress as a Basic Eight-Output Press Box</strong></h3><p><strong><img alt="In this configuration, you use the eight balanced outputs of mPress to power the press stand without using the Exo-Pods. Set the outputs to low and connect them with standard microphone cables." src="https://www.algameko.com/images/uploads/MPress_Applicazioni_01.jpg" title="In this configuration, you use the eight balanced outputs of mPress to power the press stand without using the Exo-Pods. Set the outputs to low and connect them with standard microphone cables."></strong></p><p>In this configuration, you use the eight balanced outputs of mPress to power the press stand without using the Exo-Pods. Set the outputs to low and connect them with standard microphone cables.</p><h3><strong>Using mPress in a Star Configuration</strong></h3><p><strong><img alt="Connect up to eight Exo-Pods to mPress to create eight separate zones, each with 14 outputs for a total of 112 press feeds. All outputs are isolated to eliminate noise!" src="https://www.algameko.com/images/uploads/MPress_Applicazioni_02.jpg" title="Connect up to eight Exo-Pods to mPress to create eight separate zones, each with 14 outputs for a total of 112 press feeds. All outputs are isolated to eliminate noise!"></strong></p><p>Connect up to eight Exo-Pods to mPress to create eight separate zones, each with 14 outputs for a total of 112 press feeds. All outputs are isolated to eliminate noise!</p><h3><strong>Extending Outputs in a Series Configuration</strong></h3><p><img alt="Connect in "></p><p>Daisy-chain one Exo-Pod to another to expand the system while reducing cable clutter. By setting the mPress outputs to a high value, the press feed is virtually unlimited!</p><h3><strong>Using mPress with Console Outputs</strong></h3><p><strong><img alt="You can connect console outputs to the balanced line-level inputs of mPress, integrating it with the existing PA system. Simply press the recessed switch on the rear XLR inputs to connect line-level signals and distribute them to the press gallery outputs." src="https://www.algameko.com/images/uploads/MPress_Applicazioni_04.jpg" title="You can connect console outputs to the balanced line-level inputs of mPress, integrating it with the existing PA system. Simply press the recessed switch on the rear XLR inputs to connect line-level signals and distribute them to the press gallery outputs."></strong></p><p>You can connect console outputs to the balanced line-level inputs of mPress, integrating it with the existing PA system. Simply press the recessed switch on the rear XLR inputs to connect line-level signals and distribute them to the press gallery outputs.</p><h2><strong><u>Radial mPress Technical Specifications</u></strong></h2><ul> <li>Audio circuit type: Low-noise active buffer</li> <li>Frequency response: 20Hz to >20KHz (+0/-1.5dB)</li> <li>Total harmonic distortion: 112dB</li></ul><p><strong>Microphone</strong></p><ul> <li>Input impedance: 7k Ω</li> <li>Maximum gain: +51dB</li> <li>Noise floor: -94dBu</li> <li>Low-cut filter: 100Hz (12dB/Octave)</li> <li>Limiter threshold: -10dBu to +5dBu</li> <li>Output limiting ratio: >20:1</li></ul><p><strong>Line Input</strong></p><p>Maximum gain: 0dB</p><p><strong>Program</strong></p><ul> <li>Input impedance: 22K Ω</li> <li>Maximum gain: +19dB</li> <li>Main Output</li> <li>Equivalent input noise: -111dBu</li> <li>Clip level: +24dBu / +17dBu</li> <li>Output impedance: 880 Ω</li> <li>Intermodulation distortion: 0.002%</li></ul><p><strong>Gallery Output</strong></p><ul> <li>Output impedance: 115 Ohm</li> <li>Noise floor (Program to main output): -80 / -92dBu</li> <li>Phase deviation: ±15°</li> <li>Mic signal present LED threshold: -70dBu / -54dBu / -42dBu</li> <li>Phase deviation: ±15°</li> <li>General power supply: ±15V / +5V</li> <li>Custom power supply construction: 14-gauge steel chassis and outer shell</li> <li>Finish: Durable powder coat Dimensions: 19“ x 7.25” 1.75" (482.6 mm x 184.15 mm x 44.5 mm)</li> <li>Weight: 6.25 lbs</li></ul><hr><h3><strong>Connections</strong></h3><p>Before making connections, ensure that all level controls are at zero (turned fully counter-clockwise), switches are disengaged, and PA system speakers are off, to prevent turn-on transients from damaging more sensitive components like tweeters. Connect the mPRESS power supply. There is no power switch. Once connected, mPRESS will activate. To check if mPress is powered, press MIC-1 ON to illuminate the LED. Connect the first microphone to the MIC-1 INPUT. You can use either the front panel XLR jack or the one on the rear panel. Do not use both front and rear inputs simultaneously: they are simply wired in parallel for convenience. If Phantom power is required, activate the 48V power switch with a small screwdriver. This switch is recessed to prevent accidental activation/deactivation. Connect a pair of headphones to mPress and set the headphone level control to halfway (12 o'clock) to start. Slowly increase the MIC-1 INPUT level until you see the input LED illuminate. Test the maximum input level by speaking loudly until the red LED lights up. Then lower the level again to increase headroom. Continue by adjusting the headphone level.</p><p><img alt="Connect the first microphone to the MIC-1 INPUT. You can use either the front panel XLR jack or the one on the rear panel. Do not use both front and rear inputs simultaneously: they are simply wired in parallel for convenience." src="https://www.algameko.com/images/uploads/mPress_Collegamenti_01.jpg" title="Connect the first microphone to the MIC-1 INPUT. You can use either the front panel XLR jack or the one on the rear panel. Do not use both front and rear inputs simultaneously: they are simply wired in parallel for convenience."></p><p style="text-align: justify;">MIC-2 can be used independently for a second source in conferences or meetings. Make connections exactly as described for MIC-1. When both microphone inputs are active, they are summed after the limiter section as a mono output that will be present in each of the press box outputs, main outputs, and headphones. After setting the microphone levels, engage the MAIN OUT ON switch to activate the outputs to the PA system and slowly raise the MAIN OUT LEVEL control until the desired output level is reached.</p><h3 style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Adding stereo signals from another source</strong></h3><p style="text-align: justify;">The PROGRAM section of mPress features a number of unbalanced line-level inputs for connecting and distributing additional audio sources. This allows you to connect the output of a mixer for larger setups when more than two microphones are needed. You can also use these inputs to connect a music playback device for background music through active speakers while the audience waits for guest speakers. On the front panel, there are 3.5mm RCA inputs, while on the rear panel, there are ¼" inputs and RCA inputs. You can only use one set of inputs because all connections are in parallel. When PROGRM ON is pressed, these inputs are active and sent to the GALLERY OUTPUT, MAIN OUTPUT, and HEADPHONES. When using active speakers, ensure that the MAIN OUT is on and set to an appropriate level before raising the PROGRAM LEVEL.</p><h3 style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Connecting Gallery Outputs</strong></h3><p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>mPress</strong> features eight dual-level XLR outputs to distribute the signal to a number of recording devices without any sound loss. Each of these outputs is a mono sum of MIC INPUTS 1 and 2, along with all active PROGRAM inputs. The first two GALLERY OUTPUTs are on the front of MPress for convenience, while the other six are on the rear panel. Recessed switches next to each output allow the user to set signal levels to HIGH or LOW, enabling connection of both line-level and mic-level devices. When connecting a mic-level device, press (activate) the recessed switch to set the output to LOW. When connecting a line-level recorder or an Exo-Pod module, disengage the recessed switch for the HIGH output. mPress features two XLR barrel adapters with -30dB Pad to handle line-level outputs from a mixer using the balanced XLR microphone inputs.</p><h3 style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Test Signal</strong></h3><p>mPress also features a 1kHz signal generator for sending a test signal to each GALLERY output. This allows you to simultaneously calibrate each recording device with mPress to achieve an optimal recording level. Press the TEST switch to activate the test signal.</p><hr><h2><strong>Further mPress Applications</strong></h2><h3><strong>Basic System with 8 Outputs</strong></h3><p style="text-align: justify;">In this configuration, mPress is used to power up to eight recording devices in a press stand. Ensure that the recessed switches on the GALLERY OUTPUT are set correctly for each device (LOW for mic-level recorders, HIGH for line-level devices). After making the connections, activate the 1kHz Test Tone mode to calibrate each recorder to the mPress output. Now test with the microphone to ensure the signal is clean.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><img alt="In this configuration, mPress is used to power up to eight recording devices in a press stand. Ensure that the recessed switches on the GALLERY OUTPUT are set correctly for each device (LOW for mic-level recorders, HIGH for line-level devices). After making the connections, activate the 1kHz Test Tone mode to calibrate each recorder to the mPress output. Now test with the microphone to ensure the signal is clean." src="https://www.algameko.com/images/uploads/mPress_Collegamenti_02.jpg" title="In this configuration, mPress is used to power up to eight recording devices in a press stand. Ensure that the recessed switches on the GALLERY OUTPUT are set correctly for each device (LOW for mic-level recorders, HIGH for line-level devices). After making the connections, activate the 1kHz Test Tone mode to calibrate each recorder to the mPress output. Now test with the microphone to ensure the signal is clean."></p><h3><strong>Distributing More Than Two Microphone Signals</strong></h3><p>When dealing with a group of speakers, mPress can be used to distribute mixer outputs via the PROGRAM INPUTS. In this configuration, you can also connect backup microphones through the mPress MIC INPUTs, which will continue to transmit even if the mixer shuts down or loses power.</p><h3><strong>Star Configuration with Exo-Pods</strong></h3><p style="text-align: justify;">In this configuration, we connect each Exo-Pod to one of the mPress GALLERY OUTPUTs using a standard XLR microphone cable. This allows up to 14 press room users to be powered using one Exo-Pod in a particular zone. Turn the level control on the Exo-Pod fully clockwise (maximum output level) then reduce it if it's too high. You can set up to eight zones, creating what is commonly known as a star network configuration.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><img alt="In this configuration, we connect each Exo-Pod to one of the mPress GALLERY OUTPUTs using a standard XLR microphone cable. This allows up to 14 press room users to be powered using one Exo-Pod in a particular zone. Turn the level control on the Exo-Pod fully clockwise (maximum output level) then reduce it if it's too high. You can set up to eight zones, creating what is commonly known as a star network configuration." src="https://www.algameko.com/images/uploads/mPress_Collegamenti_04.jpg" title="In this configuration, we connect each Exo-Pod to one of the mPress GALLERY OUTPUTs using a standard XLR microphone cable. This allows up to 14 press room users to be powered using one Exo-Pod in a particular zone. Turn the level control on the Exo-Pod fully clockwise (maximum output level) then reduce it if it's too high. You can set up to eight zones, creating what is commonly known as a star network configuration."></p><h3><strong>Series Configuration with Exo-Pods</strong></h3><p style="text-align: justify;">We connect one Exo-Pod to another via the LOOP THRU output, creating a series configuration (also known as daisy-chain or cascaded configuration). As described below, set the mPress GALLERY outputs to HIGH and then connect the first Exo-Pod. Add the second Exo-Pod by connecting it with a microphone cable to the LOOP THRU of the first Exo-Pod. You can connect up to four Exo-Pods in series for each mPress GALLERY output. You can use any combination of Star and Series configurations.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><img alt="Connect one Exo-Pod to another via the LOOP THRU output, creating a series configuration (also known as daisy-chain or cascaded configuration). As described below, set the mPress GALLERY outputs to HIGH and then connect the first Exo-Pod. Add the second Exo-Pod by connecting it with a microphone cable to the LOOP THRU of the first Exo-Pod. You can connect up to four Exo-Pods in series for each mPress GALLERY output. </p>You can use any combination of Star and Series configurations.