Description
Allen and Heath PA20 20 Channel Mixing Desk
The PA20 is a robust, compact 20 input (16 mono, 2 dual stereo) mixer with a straightforward layout and extensive functionality. With a design and build quality that mirrors our professional touring desks, PA20 is an essential addition to any band, school, theatre, or hire inventory.
EASY-TO-MIX CONTROLS
The control surface is laid out in an uncomplicated format and the operator can easily see all connections for patching. Pre-fade sends (FB) and post-fade sends (FX) are clearly labelled and colour coded, and there are generous 100mm fader masters with a LED mute button, identical to the channel controls. There is a selection of 16 digital FX to complete the professional design.
A+B OUTPUT CHANNELS
The main XLR outputs derive their source from a selectable combination of LR (stereo), L+R (mono), FB1 and FB2, and provide master level trim, meters, slave outputs, patch point for external processors, and the very precise 4 band semi-parametric equalisers. This is extremely flexible and means that the PA can be operated in many different ways. For example, the user may want to run a stereo house system with separate left and right speakers and no monitors, or a mono system with a foldback monitor.
HIGH PERFORMANCE PREAMP
The mic preamp is probably the most important stage in the console’s signal path and its performance is often the measure of the quality of the console. The PA Series uses a high grade dualstage design, developed from our acclaimed ML and GL consoles. This ensures optimum matching and very low noise when connecting mic or line sources.
PARAMETRIC OUTPUT EQ
A 4 band equaliser with swept frequency on each band provides more precise optimisation of the speaker system and control of feedback than the typical fixed frequency graphic type EQ found on similar consoles.
FILTER
Each mono input channel is equipped with a 100Hz high-pass filter, an invaluable tool for cleaning up the mix. The majority of live sound sources have very little content below 100Hz, and modern microphones have wide frequency response and can pick up bleed from nearby low frequency sources such as bass and kick drums. The filter can be used: on vocal channels to reduce mic handling noise and close proximity ‘popping’; on drum overhead mics to reduce kick and bass pick up; on higher frequency instruments such as flute and acoustic guitar; and on stage mics to reduce foot noise.
RECORDING OUTPUTS
There is a digital SPDIF 2-track output available from a RCA phono socket for recording direct to digital media, such as PC soundcards, DAT and digital audio processors. The recording send can be switched pre-fade if desired. An analogue recording output is also available.
BAND CHANNEL EQ
The 4 band input EQ is every bit a pro tool. The low [60Hz] and high [12kHz] bands have shelving response, while the high-midrange band is sweepable from 350Hz to 6 kHz. Low-midrange EQ has a bell response at 250Hz – a frequency chosen to provide reduction of ‘muddy’ sounds and enhance ‘warmth’.
