422 User’s Guide

422 Stereo AGC/Leveler

 Table of Contents

Chapter 1 Introduction 1
Chapter 2 Operator Safety Summary 2
Chapter 3 Front & Rear Panel Overview 3
Chapter 4 Installation 5
Chapter 5 Operation 7
Chapter 6 Specifications 9
Chapter 7 Troubleshooting 10
Chapter 8 Warranty & Service 11
Appendix A Remote Bypass Wiring 13
Appendix B Declaration of Conformity 14

422 Stereo AGC/Leveler User’s Guide

© August 2000 Symetrix, Inc.
All rights reserved.
Printed in the United States of America
Symetrix Part Number 53422-0A02

The information in this guide is subject to change

without notice. Symetrix, Inc. shall not be liable
for technical or editorial errors or omissions
contained herein; nor is it liable for incidental or
consequential damages resulting from the
furnishing, performance, or use of this material.
422

Mention of third-party products is for informa-

tional purposes only and constitutes neither an
endorsement nor a recommendation. Symetrix
assumes no responsibility with regard to the
performance or use of these products.
Under copyright laws, no part of this user guide
may be reproduced or transmitted in any form
or by any means, electronic or mechanical,
without permission in writing from Symetrix,
Inc. If, however, your only means of access is
electronic, permission to print one copy is hereby
granted. Permission to copy the Architects and
Engineers Specificiations for written proposals
specifying equipment for sound reinforcement
systems is, also, granted.

Symetrix, Inc.
14926 35th Ave West
Lynnwood WA 98037-2303
USA

Tel: 425.787.3222
Fax: 425.787.3211
Web: www.symetrixaudio.com
Email: symetrix@symetrixaudio.com
Chapter 1 Introduction

Congratulations on your decision to use a Symetrix model 422 Stereo AGC/Leveler. The 422 has
been designed to give professional audio users unequaled performance, ease of use, and reliability.
This manual will guide you through installation and operation of the 422, and provide valuable tips
on how to interface with other equipment in your system.
The 422 is a singular solution for controlling unpredictable stereo (or monaural) audio levels in a
wide variety of audio systems. Application environments include broadcast, recording, tape
duplication and installed foreground and background systems just to name a few. The 422 excels at
subtly and unobtrusively bringing level divergent audio into a “target window”, resulting in greater
intelligibility and informational perception. Unlike compressor/limiters, which are effective at
reducing sounds that are too loud (pushing down from the top only), the 422 provides both
downward compression and upward leveling by gently adding gain to low level signals until a
target level is reached.
The 422 employs advanced analog signal processing technology executed with high quality
industrial grade components to meet, or exceed, the highest professional audio industry standards
in terms of headroom, low noise and distortion, and superb sonic qualities.
The 422’s logical control panel holds no hidden surprises. The product is easy to learn and simple
to use. In the sections that follow, you'll find information on installation, operation, and specific
applications of the 422.
We recommend that you read this manual from cover to cover. Somewhere between the confines of
the two covers you should find the answers to most of your questions. If not, please feel free to
contact our Technical Services Group in the following ways:
T US customers (888) 349-3222
International customers (425) 787-3222
from 6:00 am to 4:30 pm Pacific Time Monday through Friday
F (425) 787-3211
tech@symetrixaudio.com
www.symetrixaudio.com

422
STEREO
AGC/LEVELER

Front panel
-45
DETECTOR

THRESHOLD (VU)

-20 BYPASS
RATIO

INPUT : OUTPUT

2.5 : 1

5:1
TARGET LEVEL

OUTPUT LEVEL

DECREASE INCREASE
LIMIT
-5

-15
PEAK LIMIT

THRESHOLD (VU)

+5

+15

BYPASS
BYP
SYSTEM

BYPASS

IN
BYPASS
IN
-48 -42 -36 -30 -24 -18 -12

-48 -42 -36 -30 -24 -18 -12

-6

-6
0VU +6 +12
INPUT LEVEL

0VU +6 +12 CLIP

OUTPUT LEVEL
422
422 STEREO AGC/LEVELER
TYPICAL CONNECTIONS:
REMOTE LEFT LEFT RIGHT RIGHT
PIN 1 = SLEEVE = GROUND
BYPASS OUTPUTS INPUTS OUTPUTS INPUTS PIN 2 = TIP = HIGH
AC INPUT
15 WATTS POWER PIN 3 = RING = LOW
MAX
Input and Output connections may
THIS UNIT IS be Balanced or Unbalanced.
MANUFACTURED IN XLR Pin 2 is HIGH.
LYNNWOOD, WA, U.S.A.

Rear panel

1
 Operator Safety Summary Chapter 2

Equipment Markings connection, by way of the grounding conductor

in the power cord, is essential for safe operation.
CAUTION Grounding The chassis of this product is
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK grounded through the grounding conductor of the
DO NOT OPEN
power cord. To avoid electric shock, plug the
TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR power cord into a properly wired receptacle
WARNING: ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT EXPOSE
THIS EQUIPMENT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE
before making any connections to the product. A
protective ground connection, by way of the
AVIS: RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE
NE PAS OUVRIR grounding conductor in the power cord, is
SEE OWNERS MANUAL. VOIR CAHIER D’INSTRUCTIONS. essential for safe operation. Do not defeat the
No user serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified service personnel.
Il ne se trouve a l’interieur aucune piece pourvant entre reparée l’usager.
safety purpose of the grounding plug. The
S’adresser a un reparateur compétent. grounding plug has two blades and a third
grounding prong. The third prong is provided for
The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol within an your safety. When the provided plug does not fit
equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user of the your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement
presence of uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within of the obsolete outlet.
the product’s enclosure that may be of sufficient
magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to Danger from Loss of Ground If the protective
persons. The exclamation point within an equilateral ground connection is lost, all accessible conduc-
triangle is intended to alert the user of the presence of tive parts, including knobs and controls that may
important operating and maintenance (servicing) appear to be insulated, can render an electric
instructions in the literature accompanying the product shock.
(i.e. this manual). Proper Power Cord Use only the power cord
Caution To prevent electric shock, do not use the and connector specified for the product and your
polarized plug supplied with the unit with operating locale. Use only a cord that is in good
any extension cord, receptacle, or other condition. Protect the power cord from being
outlet unless the blades can be fully walked on or pinched, particularly at plugs,
inserted. convenience receptacles, and the point where
they exit from the apparatus.
Terms
Proper Fuse The user accessible fuse is a part
Several notational conventions are used in this of the IEC AC inlet connector. The fuseholder
manual. Some paragraphs may use Note, Caution, accepts 5 x 20 mm diameter fuses. For 117 VAC
or Warning as a heading. Certain typefaces and operation, the correct value is 0.5A, 250 VAC,
capitalization are used to identify certain words. standard. For 230 VAC operation, the correct
These are: value is 0.25A, 250 VAC, standard.
Note Identifies information that needs Operating Location Do not operate this
extra emphasis. A Note generally equipment under any of the following condi-
supplies extra information to help tions: explosive atmospheres, in wet locations,
422

you to better use the 422. in inclement weather, improper or unknown AC

Caution Identifies information that, if not mains voltage, or if improperly fused. Do not
heeded, may cause damage to the install near any heat source such as radiators, heat
422 or other equipment in your registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including
system. amplifiers) that produce heat. Unplug this
Warning Identifies information that, if apparatus during lightning storms or when
ignored, may be hazardous to your unused for long periods of time.
health or that of others. Stay Out of the Box To avoid personal injury
CAPITALS Controls, switches or other markings (or worse), do not remove the product covers or
on the 422’s chassis. panels. Do not operate the product without the
Boldface Strong emphasis. covers and panels properly installed. Only use
accessories specified by the manufacturer. Clean
Important Safety Instructions only with a damp cloth.
Please read and keep these instructions. Heed User-serviceable parts There are no user
and follow all warnings and instructions. serviceable parts inside the 422. In case of
Install in accordance with the manufacturer’s failure, refer all servicing to the factory. Servic-
instructions. ing is required when the 422 has been damaged
Power Source This product is intended to in any way, such as when a power supply cord or
operate from a power source that does not apply plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or
more than 250V rms between the power supply objects have fallen into the apparatus, the
conductors or between either power supply apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture,
conductor and ground. A protective ground does not operate normally, or has been dropped.
2
Chapter 3 Front & Rear Panel Overview

Front view (left side)

DETECTOR RATIO TARGET LEVEL

THRESHOLD (Vu) INPUT : OUTPUT OUTPUT LEVEL

422 2.5 : 1

STEREO
AGC/LEVELER LIM

-45 -20 BYPASS 5:1 DECREASE INCREASE

DETECTOR—Establishes an audio reference for the purpose of discriminating between noise and
useful audio. The 422 will not attempt to apply leveling (upward gain increases) to signals that fall
below the detector threshold.

RATIO control—Sets the amount of downward compression for signals exceeding the target level
as well as the amount of upward leveling for signals below the target level.

TARGET LEVEL control—Establishes a nominal gain goal. For signals below the target level the
422 adds gain and boosts them upward. Signals above the target level are reduced in gain (down-
ward towards the target).

Front view (right)

PEAK LIMIT SYSTEM

BYP IN INPUT LEVEL

THRESHOLD (VU)
BYPASS -48 -42 -36 -30 -24 -18 -12 -6 0VU +6 +12
+5
IN
BYPASS
-5 +15

LIMIT -48 -42 -36 -30 -24 -18 -12 -6 0VU +6 +12 CLIP
OUTPUT LEVEL
-15 BYPASS

422
PEAK LIMIT control—Determines the level at which peak limiting gain reduction begins. Signals
exceeding this threshold will be reduced by a ratio of approximately 15:1 (an increase of 15 dB at
the input results in only 1 dB increase at the output).

BYPASS/IN button—Activates relays which route the 422 input signals directly from the input
connectors to the output connectors when in the BYPASS position.

INPUT/OUTPUT LEDs—Indicate the higher of either left or right channel calibrated in VU (volume
units). (“0” VU=+4 dBu).

3
 Rear panel view (left)

422 STEREO AGC/LEVELER

REMOTE LEFT LEFT
BYPASS OUTPUTS INPUTS
AC INPUT
15 WATTS POWER
MAX

THIS UNIT IS
MANUFACTURED IN
LYNNWOOD, WA, U.S.A.

AC INPUT connector—Accepts nominal AC power sources of 117 volts or 230 volts.

REMOTE BYPASS connector—Provides for the control of the BYPASS/IN function via a remote
contact closure.

LEFT INPUT connectors—Electronically balanced, bridging, line level inputs. XLR pin 1 is
ground, pin 2 is high, and pin 3 is low. The 1/4" connector's sleeve is ground, ring is low, and tip
is high.

LEFT OUTPUT connectors—Electronically balanced, low impedance, line level outputs. XLR pin 1
is ground, pin 2 is high, and pin 3 is low. The 1/4" connector's sleeve is ground, ring is low, and
tip is high.

Rear panel view (right)

TYPICAL CONNECTIONS:
RIGHT RIGHT
PIN 1 = SLEEVE = GROUND
OUTPUTS INPUTS PIN 2 = TIP = HIGH
PIN 3 = RING = LOW
Input and Output connections may
be Balanced or Unbalanced.
XLR Pin 2 is HIGH.

RIGHT INPUT connectors—Electronically balanced, bridging, line level inputs. XLR pin 1 is
422

ground, pin 2 is high, and pin 3 is low. The 1/4" connector’s sleeve is ground, ring is low, and tip
is high.

RIGHT OUTPUT connectors—Electronically balanced, low impedance, line level outputs. XLR pin
1 is ground, pin 2 is high, and pin 3 is low. The 1/4" connector’s sleeve is ground, ring is low, and
tip is high.

Note For optimum immunity to noise and radio frequency interference we highly recommend
connecting the 422 to balanced equipment, where possible. If this is not possible,
unbalanced connections are OK. Unbalanced connections via tip-sleeve (mono) 1/4" plugs
are easy to make via the 422’s 1/4" input and output connectors.

4
Chapter 4 Installation

Before you plug the 422 into a wall socket, carefully read the information in the following chapter.
AC Line connection in countries outside of the European Community
A sticker on the right end of the unit indicates the nominal voltage setting for the unit as it left the
Symetrix factory. If this does not correspond to the voltage setting for your locale then do not
attempt to apply power to the 422. Instead, return the unit to your local Symetrix distributor for
modification.
The 422 is shipped from the Symetrix factory with a detachable AC power cable (IEC standard)
included. Depending on the intended destination, the power plug is either the US type (intended
for 117 VAC use), or the Europlug type. If the power cable’s plug is not right for your locale, then
please contact your local Symetrix distributor for the proper cable.
Once you have determined that the 422’s operating voltage matches that of your locale and you
are ready to begin, follow these steps:
1 Plug the socket end of the power cable into the recessed AC power receptacle on the back of
the 422.
2 Plug the other end of the power cable into a three-hole grounded outlet or power strip.
Warning The 422 is intended to be electrically grounded. It has been provided with a
three-wire grounding plug—a plug that has a third (grounding) pin. This plug
will fit only a grounded AC outlet. This is a safety feature. If you are unable to
insert the plug into the outlet, contact a licensed electrician to replace the outlet
with a properly grounded outlet. Do not defeat the purpose of the grounding
plug!

Mounting in an equipment rack

The 422 occupies one rack space (1U) in a standard equipment rack with a width of 19" (48.3 cm),
a depth of 7.5" (19.1 cm), and a height of 1.75" (4.45 cm). Allow at least 4" (10.16 cm) behind the
unit for the protrusion of connectors. We recommend you take care not to mount the 422 next to
devices that emit large electromagnetic fields, such as audio power amplifiers. To do so may
compromise the noise performance of the 422. The 422 has been designed to conform to mechani-
cal guidelines as described in EIA Standard RS-310-C and IEC Recommendation 297.

422
Recommended audio cable wiring
For optimum system performance we recommend that the 422 be connected to balanced signal
sources. If this is not practical in your situation, then you may connect to unbalanced sources. The
diagram on the next page illustrates recommended cable wiring practices.

5
 Source device output 422 Input

Female XLR (Balanced) Male XLR

2 31
23 1
Pin 1 = ground Pin 1 = ground
Pin 2 = high Pin 2 = high
Pin 3 = low Pin 3 = low

Male 1/4" tip-ring-sleeve plug Tip (Balanced) Male XLR

2 31
Tip = high Pin 1 = ground
Ring = low Pin 2 = high
Sleeve = ground Ring Pin 3 = low
Sleeve
Sleeve
Tip
Male 1/4" tip-ring-sleeve plug (Balanced) Ring
Male 1/4" tip-ring-sleeve plug
Tip = high Tip = high
Ring = low Ring = low
Sleeve = ground Ring
Tip
Sleeve = ground
Sleeve

Sleeve Sleeve

(Unbalanced)
Male 1/4" tip-sleeve plug Male 1/4" tip-sleeve plug
Tip = high Tip = high
Sleeve = ground Sleeve = ground
Tip Tip

422 Output Destination device input

Female XLR (Balanced) Male XLR

2 31
2 31

Pin 1 = ground Pin 1 = ground

Pin 2 = high Pin 2 = high
Pin 3 = low Pin 3 = low

Tip
Female XLR (Balanced) Male 1/4" tip-ring-sleeve plug
2 31

Pin 1 = ground Tip = high

Pin 2 = high Ring = low
Pin 3 = low Ring Sleeve = ground
Sleeve

Sleeve

Male 1/4" tip-ring-sleeve plug Tip

(Balanced) Ring
Male 1/4" tip-ring-sleeve plug
Tip = high Tip = high
Ring = low Ring = low
Sleeve = ground Ring Tip
Sleeve = ground
Sleeve
422

Sleeve Sleeve

Male 1/4" tip-sleeve plug (Unbalanced) Male 1/4" tip-sleeve plug

Tip = high Tip = high
Sleeve = ground Sleeve = ground
Tip Tip

6
Chapter 5 Operation

The TARGET LEVEL control

When setting up the 422, this is generally the control that you should adjust first. The TARGET
LEVEL control does just what the name implies. It establishes the volume where you want it.
Technically, the control sets a threshold. Incoming signals that exceed this threshold are com-
pressed downward towards the threshold. Incoming signals below the threshold are expanded
(leveled) upward towards the threshold. The 422’s output is a reduced dynamic range replica of its
input, centered around the target level. As you adjust the TARGET LEVEL control, it’s very easy to
see and hear the results. A quick glance at the OUTPUT level VU meter will show you the exact
effects of increasing or decreasing TARGET LEVEL.
The DETECTOR control
The DETECTOR control increases or decreases the sensitivity of the 422 to low level audio signals
and noise. As you turn this control counterclockwise, the 422 reaches down and increases the gain
of low level audio and/or noise. The optimum setting of this control is entirely dependent upon the
nature of the audio that the 422 is processing. For example, if the audio source is relatively clean
and quiet (like a CD), the position of the DETECTOR may be noncritical. To greatly increase the
volume of the low level signals on the CD, try a full counterclockwise setting of the control (–45).
On the other hand, if you try the same extreme setting with a noisy cassette recording, you may not
find the results to be pleasing. If you’re processing a very noisy source, then turn the detector
control clockwise towards the –20 setting until the desired sound is achieved.
If you’re unsure of where to position the DETECTOR control, then start with it straight up in the
twelve o’clock position. We’ve found this to be a good compromise for unpredictable audio
sources.
The RATIO control
The RATIO control is used to increase or decrease the degree of leveling. At high ratios, the
program density increase results in a more present or up front sound. At low ratios, the 422
performs subtle, yet effective, automatic gain riding. At a setting of 5:1 (maximum) the effect of
the 422 AGC/leveling process is very audible.
The optimum setting of this control is usually dictated by the particular type of material one is
processing, and the desired effect. For example, if the 422 is part of a foreground/background
music/paging system in a high ambient noise environment, a higher ratio will produce maximum
intelligibility. As part of a broadcast chain, where the process itself must be as subtle as possible, a
2.5:1 or lower ratio is advisable.

422
If you’re unsure of where to position the ratio control, then we suggest you start in the twelve
o’clock position and make upward and downward adjustments from there as you listen and
evaluate the results.
The PEAK LIMIT control
The PEAK LIMIT control sets an absolute ceiling threshold level to which the maximum output level
is limited. The control is calibrated in VU (volume units). The PEAK LIMITER is useful in any
application where it is desired to prevent overload of subsequent system components. This may
include applications such as high volume music systems in clubs and theatres, or transmission line
applications such as AM/FM radio and television.
When the control is turned to its full clockwise rotation, the PEAK LIMITER is bypassed. As the
control is rotated counterclockwise, the threshold is moved lower and the resultant limiting can be
observed as a reduction in overall output level on the OUTPUT LED meter.
The optimum setting for the PEAK LIMIT control is most often correlated directly to requirements of
downstream system components. If you're unsure of where to set the control, then you may want to
try this: observe the OUTPUT level display and note the average output level, then adjust the PEAK
LIMIT control 10-12 dB above the average output level. Set this way, the peak limiter will provide
protection without over limiting the signal. The LIMIT LED should only come on occasionally. If it
stays on constantly then your are applying too much limiting and should turn the PEAK LIMIT control

7
 clockwise to reduce the amount of limiting. If you do not have a clearly identified need to peak
limit your signal, then we recommend that you turn the PEAK LIMIT control to the fully clockwise
BYPASS position.
The SYSTEM BYPASS/IN button
The BYPASS/IN button places the 422 in either BYPASS or IN (CIRCUIT) modes. In BYPASS mode the
incoming signals are directly routed (via relays) to the 422’s outputs, thereby bypassing any
internal circuitry. In BYPASS mode the front panel rotary controls have no effect on the operation of
the 422. A red LED indicates BYPASS status, while a green LED indicates IN status.
The INPUT AND OUTPUT level meters
The INPUT and OUTPUT level meters are calibrated in VU (volume units). The meters read the
greater of either left or right channel signal levels. The meters give an indication of absolute signal
levels, and show the exact relationship between input and output signals as a result of various
settings of the 422’s controls.
422

8
Chapter 6 Specifications

422 Specifications
Input/Output Physical
Inputs Stereo, Balanced Bridging or Unbalanced Size (hwd) 1.72 x 19 x 5.5 inches, 4.37 x 48.26 x 13.97 centimeters
Outputs Stereo, Balanced or Unbalanced Shipping Weight 8 lbs (3.63kg)
Input Connectors ˘" TRS, XLR and RCA
Output Connectors ˘" TRS, XLR and RCA Electrical
Polarity Input: tip is high, ring is low, sleeve is ground Power Requirements 117V nominal, 105 to 130V AC,
Output: tip is high, ring is low, sleeve is ground 50 to 60 Hz, 12 watts
Maximum Input Level +24 dBu 230V nominal, 207 to 255V AC, 50 Hz, 12 watts
Maximum Output Level +22 dBu into 600 Ohms
Note The maximum operating ambient temperature is
Performance Data 25 degrees C.
Frequency Response 0 dB ±1 dB, 20 Hz - 20 kHz
THD+Noise .05%, 0 dBu in, 10 dB gain reduction, 1 kHz
Dynamic Range >110 dB
Crosstalk -60 dB, +20 dBu in, 20 Hz - 20 kHz
AGC Detector Range -70 dBu to 0 dBu
Ratio 1:1 to 5:1
Target Level Range 30 dB
Limiter Threshold -15 dBu to +25 dBu
Limiter Ratio >15:1
Input Common Mode Rejection 40 dB @ 1 kHz
Output Noise -90 dBu, broadband

422 Architects and Engineers Specifications

The Automatic Gain Controller (AGC-Leveler) shall be a stereo model that reduces the dynamic
range of wide range, wideband audio signals and provides peak limiting. The AGC shall occupy
one rack space (1U).
The AGC-Leveler shall be capable of controlling audio signals ranging from –70 dBu to +24 dBu
and reducing their range by an input/output ratio of from 1:1 to 5:1. A target output level control
shall be provided to shift the level of the output signal over a nominal ±20 dB range. The release
time of the AGC shall be controlled by the presence and nature of input signals.
The AGC-Leveler shall also contain an integral peak limiter having at least a 15:1 ratio and
adjustable threshold level. A green LED indicator shall be provided to indicate peak limiter
activity. The peak limiter threshold shall determine the absolute maximum output amplitude of the
AGC-Leveler regardless of other conditions.

422
The AGC-Leveler shall provide identical peak responding input and output level meters. These
meters shall be capable of responding to signals ranging from –48 VU to +12 VU (–50 dBu to +16
dBu). An output clipping indicator shall be provided.
The inputs shall be active balanced bridging designs terminated with 3-pin XLR (AES/IEC
standard wiring) female and 1/4" (tip-ring-sleeve) jacks.
The outputs shall be active balanced designs terminated with 3-pin XLR (AES/IEC standard
wiring) male and 1/4" (tip-ring-sleeve) jacks.
Overall frequency response shall be 20 Hz to 20 kHz, ±1 dB, measured at +4 dBv output. There
shall be no more than 0.02% harmonic distortion measured under the following conditions: +4
dBu input, +4 dBm output, BYPASS switch out, 1000 Hz test frequency. Residual noise output shall
be no greater than –90 dBu measured in a 20 kHz noise bandwidth with an rms responding meter.
When the unit is inoperative (either by loss of power, or via the BYPASS switch), the inputs and
outputs shall be wired together. A REMOTE BYPASS facility shall be provided whereby an external
contact closure shall force the AGC-Leveler into BYPASS mode.
The AGC-Leveler shall be capable of operating by means of its own built-in power supply con-
nected to 117V nominal AC (105 to 130V) 50/60 Hz and 230V nominal AC (207 to 253 VAC).
The AGC-Leveler shall be a Symetrix, Incorporated model 422 Stereo AGC-Leveler.

9
 Troubleshooting Chapter 7

SYMPTOM PROBABLE CAUSE

There is no output signal Check the AC power connections to the 422.
Check input and output cables and connections.
Determine that there really is a signal coming from the source
and that it is getting to the 422.
Distortion in the output signal Check the input signal. Is it overdriving the 422’s input?
Is the incoming signal already distorted? Listen “up stream”
from the 422 (or manually place the unit in BYPASS mode) to
determine that you are feeding it a clean signal.
Buzz in the output
Check input and output connector wiring.
Check for ground loops between interconnected system
equipment.
Are all system components on the same AC ground?
Noise (hiss) Check input signal levels and input level control settings. The
input may be too low in level. If so, boost the signal from your
console or input source.
Is the input signal already noisy? Disconnect the inputs from
the 422 and listen for noise at the output. If the noise is gone,
then the problem is prior to the 422.
The 422 doesn’t power up Consult a qualified service technician or the Symetrix factory.
or doesn’t respond properly.
422

10
Chapter 8 Warranty & Service

Important Information repaired under warranty will be shipped to Buyer freight

prepaid by Symetrix via United Parcel Service (surface) or
Regarding Your Warranty any similar shipper, to any location designated by buyer
within the Continental United States. At Buyer’s request
We would like to offer you an incentive to complete our and expense Product will be returned via airfreight. Outside
product registration form. Either fully complete and mail the continental United States, repaired or replaced products
your product registration card or register online at will be returned freight collect.
www.symetrixaudio.com. You will then have a total of 5
years of warranty coverage, under the terms and limitations THIS WARRANTY IS EXPRESSLY IN LIEU OF ALL
as set forth below, without additional cost. OTHER WARRANTIES EXPRESS OR IMPLIED,
ARISING BY LAW OR OTHERWISE (INCLUDING,
If you don’t register your product, you will still receive one WITHOUT LIMITATION ANY OBLIGATIONS OF THE
year of warranty coverage, but it only takes a minute to fill SELLER WITH RESPECT TO CONSEQUENTIAL
out the card or register online and we won’t share your DAMAGES) INCLUDING THE WARRANTIES OF
personal information with others. MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR USE AND
Following are the terms and limitations of the Symetrix OF ALL OTHER OBLIGATIONS OR LIABILITIES ON
warranty. OUR PART, AND WE NEITHER ASSUME, NOR
AUTHORIZE ANY OTHER PERSON TO ASSUME FOR
Warranty US, ANY OTHER LIABILITY IN CONNECTION WITH
THE SALE OF THE PRODUCT. THIS WARRANTY
Symetrix, Inc. expressly warrants to the original purchaser SHALL NOT APPLY TO THIS PRODUCT OR ANY
(“Buyer”), subject to the terms and conditions set forth PART THERE OF WHICH HAS BEEN SUBJECT TO
below, that the Product will be free from defects in ACCIDENT, NEGLIGENCE, ALTERATION, ABUSE,
material and workmanship as a result of normal commer- OR MISUSE. WE MAKE NO WARRANTY WHATSO-
cial use for one (1) year from the date of purchase. This EVER IN RESPECT TO ACCESSORIES OR PARTS
warranty will be automatically extended (subject to the NOT SUPPLIED BY US. THE TERM “ORIGINAL
additional limitations set forth below) for an additional PURCHASER,” AS USED IN THIS WARRANTY
four years if the Warranty Registration is completed and SHALL BE DEEMED TO MEAN THAT PERSON OR
returned to Symetrix (or completed online) within thirty COMPANY THAT ORIGINALLY PURCHASED THE
(30) days of the date of delivery. PRODUCT.

Symetrix’s warranty obligation is limited to the repair, This Symetrix product has been designed and manufactured
replacement, or refund at Symetrix’s sole discretion, of the for use in professional and studio audio systems and is not
part or parts of the Product which may thus prove defective intended for other usage. This warranty only applies to
in materials or workmanship within one year from date of Buyers using the Product in professional and studio audio
purchase (or five years from the date of purchase if Buyer systems. With respect to others, including but not limited to
has registered its purchase as provided above) under consumers for personal, family, or household use,
normal use and which our examination discloses to our Symetrix expressly disclaims all warranties, including
satisfaction to be thus defective, provided that Buyer gives but not limited to warranties of merchantability and
Symetrix prompt notice of its warranty claim and fitness for a particular purpose and the express
satisfactory proof thereof. warranties as otherwise provided herein.

Symetrix will make every reasonable effort to ensure that Symetrix reserves the right to modify the design or make
additions to, or improvements to, its product lines without

422
parts are available to support the repair of our products
under warranty. In the event that a product or component making similar upgrades to Product purchased by Buyer.
part thereof becomes obsolete, unavailable or irreparable, Symetrix does not authorize any third party, including any
Symetrix reserves the right to refund a prorated portion of dealer or sales representative, to assume any liability, effect
the purchase price in full satisfaction of all warranty any repairs or modifications to the Product, or make any
claims. A refund of the purchase price is prorated as additional warranties or representation regarding the
follows: 100% through year one, 80% through year two, Product or Product information on behalf of Symetrix.
60% through year three, 40% through year four and 20% Symetrix’s total liability on any claim, whether in contract,
through year five. tort (including negligence) or otherwise arising out of,
In order to serve you better we request that the Buyer shall, connected with, or resulting from the manufacture, sale,
prior to shipping Product to Symetrix for warranty service, delivery, resale, repair, replacement or use of Product will
contact Symetrix and secure a Return Authorization not exceed the purchase price of the Product or any part
Number that shall be included with the returned Product. thereof which gives rise to the claim. In no event will
This will facilitate our efforts to keep track of your Product Symetrix be liable for any incidental or consequential
and process your warranty repair as quickly as possible. damages including but not limited to damage for lost
Buyer will prepay all freight charges to ship the Product to revenue, cost of capital, claims of customers for service
Symetrix for warranty inspection and service. This interruptions or failure to supply, and costs and expenses
warranty is subject to Symetrix’s inspection of the Product incurred in connection with labor, overhead, transportation,
at its facilities and, upon Symetrix’s request, satisfactory installation or removal of products or substitute facilities or
proof of purchase (dated copy of original retail dealer’s supply houses as a result of Product failure.
invoice.) This limited warranty gives Buyer certain rights. Buyer
Symetrix reserves the right to effect repairs to the product may have additional rights under applicable law.
with reconditioned components/parts. Products once

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 Where to Get Service
If outside of the USA
If you have determined that your 422 requires repair services and you live outside of the United
States, please contact your local Symetrix dealer or distributor for instructions on how to obtain
service.

If inside the USA

Symetrix will perform in-warranty or out-of-warranty service on any product it has manufactured
for a period of five years from date of manufacture. If you reside in the USA, then proceed as
follows:

In-Warranty Repairs
Repairs made in-warranty will cost you only one-way freight charges. We’ll prepay the return
(surface) freight. Of course, if the repair is due to operator error, parts and labor will be charged.
If there are charges for the repair costs, you will pay for the return freight. All charges will be
COD unless you have made other arrangements (prepaid, Visa, or Mastercard).

Out-of-Warranty Repairs
If the warranty period has passed, you’ll be billed for all necessary parts, labor, packaging
materials, and freight charges.

To Get Your 422 Unit Repaired (USA Customers Only)

1 Call our Technical Services Group for a return authorization (RA) number.
(888) 349-3222, Monday through Friday, 6:00 am to 4:30 pm Pacific Time.
Have your serial number ready to give to the service representative.
2 Pack the unit in its original packaging materials.
3 Include your name, address, daytime telephone number, and a brief statement of the problem.
4 Write the RA number on the outside of the box.
5 Ship the unit to Symetrix, freight prepaid. We do not accept freight collect shipments.
422

Symetrix, Inc.
14926 35th Ave West
Lynnwood WA 98037

If You Don't Have Factory Packaging Materials

If you send us your product in substandard packaging, we will charge you for factory shipping
materials. If you don’t have the factory packaging materials, do the following:
1 Select an oversized carton.
2 Wrap the unit in a plastic bag, and surround it with bubble-wrap.
3 Pack the box full of Styrofoam peanuts. Be sure there is enough clearance in the carton to
protect the rack ears.
We will return the unit in Symetrix packaging.

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Appendix A Remote Bypass Wiring

For those installations that may require remote bypassing of the 422’s functions, a rear panel jack
has been provided to accept an external switch for this purpose. The external switch should be a
high quality, industrial grade, single pole, double throw toggle switch. We highly recommend that
shielded wire be used to connect the switch to the 422 so as to minimize the possibility of introduc-
ing any radio frequency interference into the 422. The external 1/4" audio plug should be of the
tip-sleeve type (often referred to as a “mono” plug). The following diagram illustrates recom-
mended wiring practice.

Bypass
In (operate)

User supplied remote bypass circuitry

The cable should be wired as shown above and as described below:
1. The tip of the 1/4" plug is soldered to one end of the “signal” wire of a coaxial cable.
2. One end of the shield of the coaxial cable is soldered to the sleeve of the 1/4" plug.
3. The other end of the “signal” wire is soldered to the common terminal of a single pole, double
throw switch.
4. The remaining shield is soldered to either of the remaining terminals of the switch (one
terminal remains unconnected).

422
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 Declaration of Conformity Appendix B

Declaration of Conformity
We, Symetrix Incorporated,
14926 35th Ave. West, Lynnwood, Washington, USA,
declare under our sole responsibility that the product:
422 Stereo AGC-Leveler
to which this declaration relates,
is in conformity with the following standards:

EN 60065
Safety requirements for mains operated electronic and related
apparatus for household and similar general use.

EN 50082-1
Electromagnetic compatibility - Generic immunity standard
Part 1: Residential, commercial, and light industry.

The technical construction file is maintained at:

Symetrix, Inc.
14926 35th Ave. West
Lynnwood, WA, 98037-2303
USA
The authorized representative located within the European Community is:
World Marketing Associates
P.O. Box 100
St. Austell, Cornwall, PL26 6YU, U.K.
422

Date of issue: 18 January, 1995

Place of issue: Lynnwood, Washington, USA
Authorized signature:

Dane Butcher, President, Symetrix Incorporated.

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422
422

Symetrix, Inc.
14926 35th Ave. West
Lynnwood, WA, 98037-2303
USA
Tel: (425) 787-3222
Fax: (425) 787-3211
Web site: www.symetrixaudio.com
Email: symetrix@symetrixaudio.com

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