Q. Is it true that Xones are made in China, and if so, why are you doing this - is it a cost-cutting exercise? Are the UK-built Xones better quality and more reliable than the Chinese built versions?

A. We have been building the Xone:62, 32 and 02 models in China since summer 2004. They are built to exactly the same standard as the UK ones, using the same components, and tested on our own test equipment in the same way. As the Xone range grew and orders increased we had to look for an additional assembly plant in order to meet demand, as our UK factory was already operating at full capacity. We were keen to supply the demand for our products, but we were concerned about the rumours about exploitation in China, so we needed to find an internationally respected manufacturing partner with whom we could work to arrive at an acceptable production process. So, our engineering team in the UK designs the product, we specify the components to be used (the same as in our UK-built products - i.e. Alps pots and switches, P&G faders, Analog Devices IC etc.), specify the test stages and provide the test gear to ensure our standards are met. We regularly audit the production processes along with the standards accreditation bodies such as ITS to certify the standard safety and quality issues. The only difference is the direct labour content, and we're pleased to confirm that the working conditions and environment are exceptionally good in the factory we use. Finally, we're glad to say that we're very pleased with the quality of product the Chinese factory is achieving - there is NO discernible difference between the mixers built in China and those built in the UK.

Q. Do you have a software API available for communicating between my existing system and an iDR?

A. If you're looking to control the iDR from an existing PC network then the PL-Client software may be of interest. This is a virtual-wallplate GUI controlling levels, mutes and patches etc. which can be run on a user's machine, for local controls, or as much potency as is programmed for an individual position. The client-side screens are configured by the installer using the PL-Designer application, included with the free iDR System Manager software. After the 10-day trial period PL-Client requires registration which is now free. More information on PL Client is available in the iDR System Manager software. Other non-network control methods are MIDI and RS232 (SysNet).

iDR MIDI Control Protocol Version 1.10

iDR Sys-Net Control Protocol Version 1.10

An alternative solution for custom software applications via network is the Tel-Net protocol. Tel-Net gives control over input, output and crosspoint matrix levels, group levels, patch recalls and mutes and mutes, and unlike MIDI or our iDR RS232 SysNet protocol, it allows interrogation to ascertain current levels and statuses. Existing Tel-Net client software, such as Windows Telnet or PuTTY can be utilised, however if you want to use your own software, there is not much to writing your own Tel-Net client - simply open a socket to the iDR on port 23, and squirt the commands described in the protocol document at the socket. Telnet Control Protocol

Q. Can iDR be used as a loudspeaker management processor?

A. iDR can certainly be used as a dedicated loudspeaker management system. Although iDR isn't a dedicated product for this role it does have functions to enable crossover settings, phase correction, etc to be utilised. It is possible to set Crossovers filters on the outputs of the iDR system and still have some PEQ bands left over to utilise for equalisation of the system. It is best to think of iDR as a multi-functional unit which can be used to do various things that other loudspeaker processors can't (i.e. add a second loudspeaker stack up to 250 metres away from main stack, Timed events, Remote controllers, Zoner, Pager, switching amplifiers on and off using logic outputs from iDR-switch and/or PL-8, a WIFI controlled Patchbay housed in the back of a rack … the possibilities are almost endless). Allen & Heath have a series of iDR Patches and Diagrams for Loudspeaker Management on the Allen & Heath website where you can download and use these as system guides and system modes of operation.

Q. Can I run the signal generator offline?

A. The iDR signal generator is located in the iDR system hardware, not in the offline simulator, and therefore you will need to be physically connected to an iDR unit to use this

Q. If I update the firmware in an iDR unit, will I lose my settings?

A. No, you shouldn't lose any programming in the unit. The firmware code sits in a different area of memory to that of the programmed data, which is not overwritten during a code update. This is distinct and different to the DR system, where memory settings are lost

Q. Does the iDR system support networked audio?

A. No, at present audio-over-Ethernet is not supported. The iDR offers networked control of traditional analogue audio inputs connected to the iDR unit via XLR and/or 1/4" jack TRS connectors (iDR-4).

Q. Does the iDR system support digital input/output?

A. The iDR system has digital buss connections for connecting digital signals to/from the iDR-In, iDR-Out and other iDR-8 units, but at the time of writing (February 2004) there are no direct methods of connecting digital i/o such as SPDIF, TOSLINK, AES3 (AES/EBU) etc.

Q. Can you upgrade the firmware via Ethernet or must you use the serial interface?

A. From software version V3.10 onwards, the iDR unit firmware can be updated via Ethernet. As using this method means that it is not necessary to press the 'Code Update' button on the unit front panel, this means that software updates can be carried remotely, as long as suitable remote access to the unit is available. When updating from software versions prior to V3.10, it will be necessary to use the RS232 software update method. More information on updating the unit software is available in the Help file included with the System Manager software, or by contacting Technical Support.

Q. Will the iDR work at 96KHz?

A. Yes. The hardware is capable of running the main iDR box at 96KHz (restricted to an 8x8 matrix, i.e. the iDR input and output expanders will be non-functional) but the iDR System Manager software does not yet support this. 96KHz functionality is scheduled for a future software update. If you have a requirement for 96KHz operation, we would be interested in getting further details about your application. Please contact Technical Support at support@allen-heath.com.

Q. I need a 20m RS232 cable from my DR128 to my laptop. Is this possible?

A. The maximum recommended length of the data cable between the PC and the DR unit is 5 meters. This is because the RS232 is an unbalanced connection, and the signal will be subject to loading as well as induced noise into the cable, meaning that a longer version of the supplied cable is not likely to work.

There is a way around this, however. You could convert the RS232 to a screened, balanced format (RS422/RS485 etc.) cable for the length of the cable run from the PC, then convert back to RS232 before connecting to the DR. This can be accomplished with the use of proprietary converter boxes. Because the only pins in the connection that are used are pins 2, 3 and 5 (TX, RX and GND), there is no means to use any other of the control lines to power the converter boxes, so you would need to find some that are battery powered. Once this is done, you have a much greater capability to communicate with the DR over distance, such as 500m etc. To be as effective as possible, the unbalanced part of the total connection would need to be as short as possible.