American Audio
®
™
Q-D3
“Battle Deck”
Professional Preamp Mixer
American Audio
4295 Charter Street
Los Angeles Ca. 90058
Q-D3™
Do not spill water or other liquids into or on to your mixer.
For adult use only - Keep out of the reach of children.
Safety Precautions
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Be sure that the local power outlet match that of the required voltage of the unit.
Disconnect from main power before making any type of connection.
Do not attempt any service. There are no user serviceable parts inside.
Never plug this mixer in to a dimmer pack
Always be sure to mount this mixer in an area that will allow proper ventilation.
Do not attempt to operate this mixer, if it becomes damaged in any way.
Never operate this mixer when it’s covers are removed
To reduce the risk of electrical shock or fire, do not expose this mixer rain or moisture
This mixer is intended for indoor use only, use of this product outdoors voids all warranties.
During long periods of non-use, disconnect the mixer’s main power.
Always mount this mixer in safe and stable matter.
Power Cord Protection - Power supply cords should be routed so that they are not likely to be
walked on or pinched by items placed upon or against them, paying particular attention to cords
at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the mixer.
Cleaning -The mixer should be cleaned only as recommended by the manufacturer.
Heat -The mixer should be situated away from heat sources such as radiators, heat registers,
stoves, or other mixers (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
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Be sure to save the packing carton in case you may ever have to return the mixer for service.
Read all documentation before attempting to operate your new mixer. Please save all your docu-
mentation for future reference.
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Do not spill water or other liquids in to or on to your mixer.
Do not attempt to operate this mixer if the power cord has been frayed or broken. Please route your
power cord out of the way of foot traffic .
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Always have the front gain controls set to their lowest level during initial power-up to prevent speaker
damage.
The mixer should be serviced by qualified service personnel when:
A. Objects have fallen, or liquid has been spilled into the mixer.
B. The mixer has been exposed to rain or water.
C. The mixer does not appear to operate normally or exhibits a marked change in performance.
Q-D3™
Main Features
• VCA Fader for Q-Start Control
• Adjustable Crossfader Curve - for crabbing
• Selectable Voltage 115v~230v
• Soft-touch rubber knobs for better control
• Extremely clean signal to noise ratio
• Light Control Signal Output Jack
• Talk Over Button - Reduces channel output
gain by 15dB +/- 2 dB
• Dual Function Stereo LED Level Indicator -
Indicated Master and PFL (Pre Fader Level)
Signal Levels
• 2 Phono/2 Aux, 2 Line Inputs
• Fader “Q” Start on both channels
• Q-Start Compatible (for use with compatible
American Audio CD Players )
• -30dB Rotary Kills for Treble, Bass and
Mids on both channels
• Split Cue Monitoring
• Separate gain control for each channel
• High output to headphones
• Cue Mixing
• 100% Push Button Kills
• Replacable/Adjustable Transformer Switches
• Push Button Kills
©American Audio®
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Q-D3™ Instruction Manual Page 3
Q-D3™
QUICK START INSTRUCTIONS
American DJ would like to thank for your purchase of this great
product. For those of you that are to impatient to read the entire
user manual we have compiled these quick start instructions.
We hope that you will at least read through these instructions
to familiarize yourself with the basic understanding of the unit.
The Q-D3 is part of American DJ’s continuing evolution in audio
technology. This unit has been built and designed with the typi-
cal DJ in mind, by DJ’s. We have attempted to provide you with
the most reliable product on the market by using only compo-
nents made from quality products.
MASTER LEVEL - Use this level control to set your volume
output. Try never to send an output of more than +4dB to your
system. Signal at levels higher than this will start to distort and
may cause damage to your system and speakers. Remember
that a distorted signal from you mixer will only be multiplied
throughout your system.
CHANNEL TRIM LEVEL - The channel trim levels are not to be used as volume controls, never
use the channel trim to set the output volume. These controls are used to aid in distortion control. Use
these control to preset your signal level before the crossfader.With your channel faders in the maximum
position, use the channel trim level to set an average output level of about +4dB on you master level
meter.
HEADPHONES - To avoid sever hearing damage, always be sure the headphone level is set to
minimum before plugging them in. Never put the headphone on without making sure the headphone
level is turned down.
MAIN MIC - The main mic connector uses a 1/4” jack unbalanced connector. The DJ mic has an
independent volume control.When feedback occurs when using the mic, try lowering the “low” level this
may reduce the feedback. Always leave the mic level to it’s minimum level when not in use.
PHONO/AUX SWITCH (29) - This switch is used to change the selected input from phono level to
line level and vice versa. Channels 1 and 2 may be switched PHONO/AUX or LINE. The selectors for
AUX1/PHONO1 and AUX2/PHONO2 are on the rear panel (24).
Q-START FEATURE - This function works in conjunction with a compatible American DJ “Q”Start
CD player. When used with a compatible CD player, you can use the crossfader to start and stop the
CD Player with the slide of the fader. The ON/OFF “Q ”START switch activates this FADER “Q ”START
feature.
©American Audio®
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Q-D3™ Instruction Manual Page 4
Q-D3™
Controls and Features
Top Panel
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9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
7
6
5
17
4
3
18
19
2
1
1. FEATHER FADER PLUS CROSSFADER - This fader is used to blend the output signals of chan-
nels one and two together. When the fader is in the full left position (channel 1), the output signal of
channel one will be controlled by the master volume level. The same fundamentals will apply for chan-
nel two. Sliding the fader from one position to another will vary the output signals of channels one and
two respectively. When the crossfader is set in the center position, the output signals of both the chan-
nels one and channels two will be even.
2. HAMSTER SWITCH - This switch changes the polarity of the Crossfader (for crabbing). Channel
1 will be activated by the right side of the crossfader (mixing from right to left), and Channel 2 will be
activated by the left side of the crossfader (mixing from left to right).
3. CHANNEL FADER - These faders are used to control the output signal of any source assigned to
its particular channel.
©American Audio®
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Q-D3™ Instruction Manual Page 5
Q-D3™
Controls and Features Cont.
4. CHANNEL TRANSFORMER SWITCH (REPLACEABLE AND ADJUSTABLE) - These switches
are used to select the input source assigned to each channel. Each channel may only be assigned one
input source at a time. The TRANSFORMER SWITCH may be used in an up/down or left/right pattern.
To adjust the transformer orientation please follow the instructions on page 12.
5. PFL BUTTONS - These buttons are used to activate a channels “CUE” mode. A red LED next to the
PFL button will glow when a channels cue mode is activated. Cue mode will send a channels incoming
signal to the headphones. The cue level is adjusted by the Cue Level Adjustment Knob (15). Be sure
the cue level is set to minimum before putting a pair of headphones on. Be sure the Cue Mixing Knob
(14) is turned to the “CUE” position to hear the selected channel source.
6.TALKOVER BUTTON - When engaged this function will decrease all signal levels, except the micro-
phone level, by 15dB. A red LED next to the Talkover Button will glow when the talkover function is
engaged. In the OFF position all signals will remain at their normal levels.
7. MICROPHONE CONTROLS - These controls are used to adjust the microphone volume output level,
treble level, and bass levels. Turn the knobs in a clockwise direction to increase the selected value.
8. CHANNEL CUT BUTTONS - These buttons are used to cut out the Treble, Mid or Bass frequencies
of the incoming audio signal. When these buttons are depressed the selected frequency level is cut by
100%. When a Cut Button is engaged a red LED located directly above the specific button will begin to
glow, indicating the cut function has been activated. Depressing the Cut Button will disengage the cut
function.
9. dB METER MODE SELECTOR - This push button switch is used to change the operating mode of
the dB LED meter. When the switch is in the Master L/R (up) position, the dB meter will indicate the
master output levels. When the switch is in the PFL CH1/CH2 (down) position the dB meter will use
the left side of the meter to indicate channel one’s prefader level and use the right side of the meter to
indicate channel two’s prefader level.
10. LEVEL INDICATORS - The dual LED’s indicators are used to indicate either the master output level
or the PFL level’s of channels one and two. The level indicators will directly reflect the operating mode
of the dB Selector Switch (9).
11. CHANNEL GAIN CONTROL - This adjustment is used to adjust an audio source signal input gain
for a channel. Never use the gain control to adjust output volume. Setting the gain level properly will
ensure a clean output signal. To properly set the gain level controls:
1. Be sure the Master Volume Control (13) is set to minimum (zero output).
2. Set the Channel Fader (3) to level 7.
3. Begin play on an audio source connected to the channel you are adjusting.
4. Be sure the LED Level Indicator Function Switch (9) is set to the PFL CH1/CH2 position.
5. Turn the PFL (5) function on, for the channel you are adjusting.
6. Use the Gain Control (11) to achieve an average output level of +4 dB.
12. MAIN POWER SWITCH - This is the main power ON/OFF button. A yellow LED above the power
switch will glow to indicating power is ON. Before main power is applied, be sure you have made all con-
nections to the mixer. Also be sure your amplifier(s) is tuned off. Remember to avoid damaging pops,
mixer on first and turned off last.
13. MASTER VOLUME CONTROL - This rotary knob is used to control the master output level
(volume). To avoid distorted output try to maintain an average output signal level +4 dB. Be sure this
volume control is always set to zero before turning the unit on.
©American Audio®
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Q-D3™ Instruction Manual Page 6
Q-D3™
Controls and Features Cont.
14. CUE MIXING CONTROLLER - This knob selects the channel for monitoring. The monitor signal
comes from the Prefader. This means it will not be affected by the channel faders. You can monitor
each channel individually. Connect your headphones to the HEADPHONES jack. Turn the CUE MIXING
CONTROL to CUE and select the desired channels with the PFL switches. When you turn the CUE
MIXING CONTROL to PGM (PFL switches without function), you can cue the output signal of the mixer.
If the CUE MIXING CONTROL is set to the center position, you can cue both the channel signal you
selected and the output signal.With the CUE LEVEL control, you can adjust the phones volume without
changing the output signal.
15. CUE LEVEL VOLUME CONTROL - This knob is used to adjusts the headphone volume output
level. Turn the knob in a clockwise direction to increase the headphone volume.
16. HEADPHONE JACK - This jack is used to connect your headphones to the mixer allowing you to
monitor the cue source. Use headphones only rated at 8 ohms to 32 ohms. Most DJ headphones are
rated at 16 ohm, these are highly recommended. Always be sure the CUE LEVEL VOLUME (12) is set
to minimum before you put the headphones on.
17. CHANNEL EQUALIZER (“ROTARY KILLS” - BASS/MID/TREBLE CONTROL) - Both of the chan-
nels include a three-band signal output EQ. These controls are used to increase or decrease the LOW’s,
MID’s, and HI’s of the output signal. The Q-D3 features “Rotary Kills” with a -30dB to +20dB gain control.
Turning the knob counter-clockwise will decrease a particular frequency applied to an output signal,
turning a knob clockwise will increase a particular frequency applied to an output signal.
18. FADER CURVE SWITCH - This switch is used to change the way the crossfader will operate. The
crossfader can operate in three different modes, NORMAL CURVE and two types of QUICK CURVE
(Quick Curve usually used for crabbing).
19. Q-START ON/OFF SWITCH - This function works in conjunction with a compatible American DJ
“Q” Start CD player. When used with a compatible CD player, you can use the crossfader to start and
stop the CD play. The ON/OFF “Q” START (8) switch activates the fader “Q” start feature. When the
fader “Q” start feature is activated sliding the CROSSFADER (14) from left to right will play or cue any
CD player connected to the controller jacks (16) on the rear of the unit.
For example, connect a compatible dual CD player connect to mixer channels one and two (refer
to your CD player manual for proper set-up). Be sure the Fader “Q” Start feature is activated on
both channels. Slide the crossfader to the channel one position (full left) and begin playback on
CD drive one. Slide the crossfader to the channel position (far right). This will immediately
trigger the play function on CD drive two and return CD drive one to cue mode. To return to
normal fader operation turn the Fader “Q” Start ON/OFF SWITCH (8) to the OFF position.
©American Audio®
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Q-D3™ Instruction Manual Page 7
Q-D3™
Controls and Features Cont.
20. AC VOLTAGE SELECTOR - This switch is used to adjust the operating voltage. Operating voltage
can be toggled between 115V/50Hz or 230V/60Hz. Always be sure the selector is set to the proper
voltage for your area before attempting to operate the unit.
21. PLAYER CONTROL - These jacks are used to control the “Q-Start” function between the mixer and
a compatible American Audio CD Player. Input mini plugs from CD player controller into these jacks,
input CD 1 into jack A and CD 2 into jack B.
22. LIGHT CONTROL - This jack provides a preset mono audio signal output.There is no way to adjust
this level, however this level will directly reflect the output level of the Channel Faders (3). This buffered
audio output should only be used for light controllers that can accept an external audio input. Great for
Touch Panels and Chase Controllers. Buffered audio output for light controllers that can use external
input.
23. DJ MICROPHONE CONNECTOR - This jack is used to a connect a microphone to the mixer. Con-
nect you microphone via 1/4 inch (6.3mm) jack.The signal volume will be controlled by the DJ Mic Knob
(7). The bass and treble levels can also be adjusted by the built-in microphone EQ (7).
24. AC CONNECTION - This connector is used to supply main power to the unit via the included
detachable power cord. Use only the supplied, polarized AC power cord. This cord is designed to fit in
one direction only. Do not attempt to force a cord in if it does not fit, be sure the cord is being inserted
properly
25. RCA MASTER OUTPUTS - The Master Output includes a pair of RCA Unbalanced Jacks.The RCA
jacks send a low current unbalanced output signal.
©American Audio®
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Q-D3™ Instruction Manual Page 8
Q-D3™
Controls and Features Cont.
26. REC OUT - This is a low current unbalanced output source designed for various tape and CD
recorders. The Record Out (REC OUT) level is dictated by the Channel Fader Level (3), it is not influ-
enced by the Master Volume Control (13).
27. CHANNEL 2: LINE 2 RCA INPUT JACKS - These Jacks are used for line level inputs. Connect
CD players or Tape Decks to LINE inputs. Line level musical instruments with stereo outputs such as
Rhythm Machines or Samplers should also be connected to LINE inputs. Turntables should only be
connected to “Phono” inputs.The red colored RCA jack represents the right channel input and the white
represents the left channel input.
28. CHANNEL 2: PHONO 2 INPUT/AUX 2 JACKS - The type of input must directly reflect the selected
mode of the Line Level Selector Switch (29). Connect turntables equipped with MM pickup cartridge
to PHONO inputs (All DJ turntable use MM pick-up cartridges). CD players or Tape Decks and other
line level instruments may be connected to these jacks as long as the Line Level Selector Switch (29)
is in the “AUX 2” position. The red colored RCA jack represents the right channel input and the white
represents the left channel input.
29. LINE LEVEL SELECTOR SWITCH - This switch is used to change the mode of PHONO INPUT
JACKS (28 and 31).When connecting turntable to these jacks be sure the switch is in the PHONO posi-
tion, and when using line level input devices be sure this switch is in the AUX position. Always be sure
main power is shut off before change the position of the Line Level Selector Switch.
30. CHANNEL 1: LINE 1 RCA INPUT JACKS - These Jacks are used for line level inputs. Connect
CD players or Tape Decks to LINE inputs. Line level musical instruments with stereo outputs such as
Rhythm Machines or Samplers should also be connected to LINE inputs. Turntables should only be
connected to “Phono” inputs.The red colored RCA jack represents the right channel input and the white
represents the left channel input.
31. CHANNEL 1: PHONO 1 INPUT/AUX 1 JACKS - The type of input must directly reflect the selected
mode of the Line Level Selector Switch (29). Connect turntables equipped with MM pickup cartridge
to PHONO inputs (All DJ turntable use MM pick-up cartridges). CD players or Tape Decks and other
line level instruments may be connected to these jacks as long as the Line Level Selector Switch (29)
is in the “AUX 1” position. The red colored RCA jack represents the right channel input and the white
represents the left channel input.
32. GND (GROUND TERMINAL) - Connect each of your turntables ground leads to either of the two
ground terminal. This will reduce the humming and popping noises associated with magnetic phono
cartridges.
©American Audio®
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Q-D3™ Instruction Manual Page 9
Q-D3™
Cleaning
Due to fog residue, smoke, and dust, cleaning the mixer should be carried out periodically to
optimize light output.
1. Use normal glass cleaner and a soft cloth to wipe down the outside casing.
2. Use a cleaner specially designed for electronics to spray in and around the knobs and switch. This
will reduce small particle built up that can effect the proper operation of the mixer.
3. Clean should be carried out every 30-60 days.
4. Always be sure to dry all parts completely before plugging the mixer in.
Cleaning frequency depends on the environment in which the mixer operates (i.e. smoke, fog
residue, dust, dew).
Q-D3™
Cross Fader Replacement
The crossfader is “Hot Swappable” which means it may be replaced at any time, even when power is
applied. Only replace with American Audio Part Feather Fader Plus. Replacing with any other model
fader may seriously damage your mixer.
Replacing the Crossfader:
1. Using a number two Phillips screw driver, unscrew the each of the stainless steel retaining screws
that hold the crossfader in place.
2. Gently remove the crossfader from its seated position.You may need to wiggle the crossfader
slightly to unseat it.
3. After removing the crossfader, disconnect the ribbon cable that attaches the crossfader to the PC
board. Grasp the crossfader by its base and pull the ribbon cable by its connector not the actual
cables. The connector is designed to fit one way, so don’t worry about the connectors orientation.
4. Connect the new crossfader to the ribbon cable.
5. Reassemble in reverse order.
Changing/Replacing the Transformer Switch:
1. Disconnect the mixer’s main power supply.
2. Using a number two Phillips screw driver, unscrew each of the larger retainer screws that hold the
transformer switch in place.
3. To replace: disconnect the ribbon cable that attaches the switch to the PC board. Grasp the cross-
fader by its base and pull the ribbon cable by its connector not the actual cable. The connector is
designed to fit one way, so don’t worry about the connectors orientation.
3. To augment transformer orientation: Pull the switch out and turn to the desired position.
4. Reassemble in reverse order.
©American Audio®
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Q-D3™ Instruction Manual Page 12
Q-D3™
Warranty
The Q-D3™ carries a two year limited warranty. We recommend you fill out the enclosed warranty card to
validate your purchase. All returned service items whether under warranty or not, must be freight pre-paid
and accompany a R.A.(return authorization) number. If the mixer is under warranty, you must provide a
proof of purchase invoice. You may obtain a R.A. number by contacting our customer support team on
out toll free number.
Q-D3™
Main Features
2-YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY
A. American Audio® hereby warrants, to the original purchaser, American Audio® products to be free
of manufacturing defects in material and workmanship for a period of 2 Year (730 days) from the date
of purchase. This warranty shall be valid only if the product is purchased within the United States of
America, including possessions and territories. It is the owner’s responsibility to establish the date and
place of purchase by acceptable evidence, at the time service is sought.
B. For warranty service, send the product only to the American Audio® factory. All shipping charges
must be pre-paid. If the requested repairs or service (including parts replacement) are within the terms
of this warranty, American Audio® will pay return shipping charges only to a designated point within the
United States. If the entire instrument is sent, it must be shipped in its original package. No accessories
should be shipped with the product. If any accessories are shipped with the product, American Audio®
shall have no liability whatsoever for loss of or damage to any such accessories, nor for the safe return
thereof.
C. This warranty is void if the serial number has been altered or removed; if the product is modified in
any manner which American Audio® concludes, after inspection, affects the reliability of the product; if
the product has been repaired or serviced by anyone other than the American Audio® factory unless
prior written authorization was issued to purchaser by American Audio®; if the product is damaged
because not properly maintained as set forth in the instruction manual.
D. This is not a service contract, and this warranty does not include maintenance, cleaning or peri-
odic check-up. During the period specified above, American Audio® will replace defective parts at its
expense, and will absorb all expenses for warranty service and repair labor by reason of defects in
material or workmanship. The sole responsibility of American Audio® under this warranty shall be lim-
ited to the repair of the product, or replacement thereof, including parts, at the sole discretion of Ameri-
can Audio®. All products covered by this warranty were manufactured after January 1, 1990, and bear
identifying marks to that effect.
E. American Audio® reserves the right to make changes in design and/or improvements upon its prod-
ucts without any obligation to include these changes in any products theretofore manufactured.
F. No warranty, whether expressed or implied, is given or made with respect to any accessory supplied
with products described above. Except to the extent prohibited by applicable law, all implied warran-
ties made by American Audio® in connection with this product, including warranties of merchantability
or fitness, are limited in duration to the warranty period set forth above. And no warranties, whether
expressed or implied, including warranties of merchantability or fitness, shall apply to this product after
said period has expired. The consumer’s and or Dealer’s sole remedy shall be such repair or replace-
ment as is expressly provided above; and under no circumstances shall American Audio® be liable for
any loss or damage, direct or consequential, arising out of the use of, or inability to use, this product.
G. This warranty is the only written warranty applicable to American Audio® Products and supersedes
all prior warranties and written descriptions of warranty terms and conditions heretofore published.
©American Audio®
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Q-D3™ Instruction Manual Page 13
Q-D3™
Specifications
Model: Q-D3/Battle Deck, 2 Channel Mixer
POWER SUPPLY:
DIMENSIONS:
WEIGHT:
AC 115/230V, 50/60Hz Selectable
12.5”W x 10.25”D x 4”H /254 x 308 x 102.5 mm
5.5Lbs./2.8Kgs
CROSSFADER:
Feather Fader Plus - VCA detecting fader start control -
Low grounding impedance crossfader
5W typical, 7W w/ full headphone output
16 Ohms
Operating Temperature: 5 to 35 deg. C; Humidity: 25 to 85%
RH (non-condensing); Storage Temperature: -20 to 60 deg. C
POWER CONSUMPTION:
HEADPHONE IMPEDANCE:
ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITION:
Input Sensitivity (Level/Impedence): LOAD=47K OHM
LINE:
14dBV (200mV)12K Ohm +/-2dB
PHONO:
MICROPHONE:
AUX:
-48dBV (4mV)47K Ohms +/-3dB
-49 dBV (3.6mV0 /3K Ohms +/-3 dB
-14 dBV (200mV)/47K Ohms +/-2dB
Output Sensitivity (Level/Impedence): Note: 0dBV=1Vrms
MASTER OUT (RCA):
REC OUT (RCA):
PHONES (LOAD=32 OHMS):
0dBV (1V)/610 Ohms +/-2dB
-10dBV (316mV)/2.2K Ohms +/-2dB
-8dBV (0.4V)/33 Oms +/-2dB
Maximum Output (Load = 47K,THD = 5%)
MASTER (RCA):
REC:
PHONES (Load=32 ohms):
MORE THAN 18dBV (8V)
MORE THAN 18dBV (8V)
MORE THAN 6dBV (2V)
CHANNEL BALANCE:
Within 3dB
Frequency Response:
LINE:
20Hz - 20KHz, 1dB
PHONO:
AUX:
20Hz - 20KHz, 1.5dB (RIAA)
20Hz - 20KHz, 1dB
MICROPHONE:
20Hz - 20KHz, +1,-3dB
Output Noise (IEC-A WEIGHTED):
LINE/AUX:
PHONO:
MIC:
LESS THAN -70dBV
LESS THAN -65dBV
LESS THAN -55dBV
THD - Total Harmonic Distortion (1Khz, 0dBV Output):
MASTER OUTPUT (LOAD = 47K OHMS):
PHONO: (LOAD = 32 OHMS):
Less than 0.2%
Less than 0.5%
CROSSTALK:
< 40dB @ 1Khz between left and right channels
Channel Equalizer:
BASS:
MID:
+12 1dB,-22 2 dB at 70KHz
+12 1dB,-17 2 dB at 1KHz
+13 1dB,-27 2 dB at 13KHz
TREBLE:
Microphone Equalizer:
BASS:
+12 1dB,-12 1 dB at 100KHz
+12 1dB,-12 1 dB at 10KHz
TREBLE:
©American Audio®
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Q-D3™ Instruction Manual Page 14
©American Audio Supply
American Audio World Headquarters:
4295 Charter Street
Los Angeles, CA 90058 USA
Tel: 323-582-2650 Fax: 323-582-2610
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