Lexicon MX200 Manual: A Comprehensive Guide
Welcome to your comprehensive resource for the Lexicon MX200! This guide provides essential information‚ from initial setup and operation to advanced techniques and troubleshooting. Get the most out of your MX200!
MX200 Overview and Features
The Lexicon MX200 is a versatile dual-processor effects unit designed for both live sound reinforcement and studio recording applications. It combines Lexicon’s legendary reverb algorithms with a range of other high-quality effects‚ offering a comprehensive solution for adding depth‚ texture‚ and character to your audio. This single rack-space unit provides two independent effects processors‚ allowing you to run two distinct effects simultaneously or combine them in various routing configurations. The MX200 features 16 classic Lexicon reverb algorithms‚ including halls‚ plates‚ chambers‚ and rooms‚ renowned for their smooth and natural sound. In addition to reverb‚ it offers a selection of delay‚ modulation‚ and dynamics effects‚ such as chorus‚ flanger‚ tremolo‚ rotary‚ dbx compression‚ and de-essing. These effects can be used individually or in combination with reverb to create a wide array of sonic textures. The MX200’s intuitive front panel provides easy access to all essential parameters‚ with dedicated controls for effect selection‚ level adjustment‚ and routing. A large‚ bright display shows program names and parameter values‚ ensuring clear visibility in any environment. The unit also features a USB connection for seamless integration with computer-based recording systems‚ allowing you to control the MX200’s parameters from your DAW using the MX-Edit software. The MX-Edit software provides a visual interface for editing and managing your MX200 presets‚ making it easy to create custom effects chains and save them for later use. With its combination of high-quality effects‚ flexible routing options‚ and intuitive interface‚ the Lexicon MX200 is an ideal choice for musicians‚ engineers‚ and sound designers seeking a versatile and affordable effects solution. Whether you’re adding ambience to vocals‚ thickening up guitars‚ or creating complex soundscapes‚ the MX200 delivers the legendary Lexicon sound in a compact and user-friendly package.
Technical Specifications of the MX200
The Lexicon MX200 boasts a comprehensive set of technical specifications that contribute to its exceptional audio performance and versatile functionality. At its core‚ the MX200 operates with 24-bit internal processing‚ ensuring high-resolution audio quality and a wide dynamic range. Its sampling rate is 48kHz‚ providing accurate and detailed reproduction of audio signals. The unit features two balanced/unbalanced analog inputs and outputs‚ accommodating a variety of connection options. The input impedance is 20kOhms‚ while the output impedance is 1kOhm‚ ensuring compatibility with a wide range of audio equipment. The frequency response of the MX200 extends from 20Hz to 20kHz‚ providing a full and accurate representation of the audio spectrum. The total harmonic distortion (THD) is less than 0.007% at 1kHz‚ ensuring minimal distortion and clean‚ transparent audio processing. The signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) is greater than 80dB‚ providing a quiet and noise-free operating environment. The MX200’s USB port allows for seamless integration with computers‚ enabling control of the unit’s parameters via the MX-Edit software. The unit’s dimensions are 19 inches (482mm) wide‚ 1.75 inches (44mm) high‚ and 4.75 inches (121mm) deep‚ making it a standard 1U rack-mountable unit. It weighs approximately 3.75 pounds (1.7 kg)‚ making it lightweight and easy to transport. The MX200 operates on a universal power supply‚ accepting voltages from 9 VAC‚ allowing for use in various regions without the need for a voltage converter. The power consumption is 9 Watts. The unit features 99 factory presets‚ providing a wide range of ready-to-use effects. The MX200 also allows for user-programmable memory‚ enabling the creation and storage of custom effects. The unit’s front panel includes dedicated controls for input level‚ output level‚ effect selection‚ and parameter adjustment. A large‚ bright display provides clear visibility of program names and parameter values. The MX200 also features a tap tempo button for precise control of delay times and modulation rates. These technical specifications‚ combined with its intuitive interface and legendary Lexicon sound‚ make the MX200 a valuable tool for musicians‚ engineers‚ and sound designers seeking a versatile and high-quality effects processor.
Operating Instructions and Setup
Setting up and operating the Lexicon MX200 is a straightforward process‚ designed for ease of use in both live and studio environments. Before you begin‚ ensure that you have all the necessary components: the MX200 unit‚ the power supply‚ and appropriate audio cables. Connect the power supply to the MX200 and plug it into a grounded power outlet. Next‚ connect your audio sources to the MX200’s inputs using balanced XLR or unbalanced 1/4″ TS cables‚ depending on your equipment’s outputs. Connect the MX200’s outputs to your mixer‚ amplifier‚ or recording interface using similar cables. Ensure that the input and output levels are properly matched to avoid clipping or distortion. Once the physical connections are made‚ power on the MX200. The unit will display its current program selection. Use the program select buttons to browse through the factory presets or your custom programs. The MX200 features a dual-processor architecture‚ allowing you to run two independent effects simultaneously. Use the routing button to choose one of the four available routing configurations: Dual Mono‚ Cascade‚ Dual Stereo‚ or Mono Split. Each routing configuration offers different ways to combine the two effects processors. Adjust the input and output levels using the dedicated knobs on the front panel. The MX200 also features a wet/dry mix control for each effect‚ allowing you to blend the processed signal with the original dry signal. Use the parameter knobs to fine-tune the settings of each effect‚ such as reverb time‚ delay time‚ modulation rate‚ and filter cutoff. The tap tempo button allows you to set the delay time or modulation rate by tapping the button in sync with the music. The MX200 also supports MIDI control‚ allowing you to control its parameters remotely using a MIDI controller. To use MIDI control‚ connect a MIDI cable from your controller to the MX200’s MIDI input. Refer to the MX200’s manual for a complete list of MIDI control assignments. The MX-Edit software provides a graphical interface for controlling the MX200 from your computer. To use the software‚ connect the MX200 to your computer via USB and install the MX-Edit software. The software allows you to create‚ edit‚ save‚ and load programs‚ as well as control all of the MX200’s parameters in real-time. By following these operating instructions and setup procedures‚ you can quickly and easily integrate the Lexicon MX200 into your audio setup and begin exploring its wide range of effects.
MX-Edit Software Functionality
The MX-Edit software significantly enhances the functionality and usability of the Lexicon MX200‚ providing a comprehensive graphical interface for controlling and managing the unit’s parameters and presets directly from your computer. This software is compatible with both Mac and Windows operating systems‚ ensuring accessibility for a wide range of users. To begin using MX-Edit‚ you must first install the software from the included CD or download it from the Lexicon website. Once installed‚ connect your MX200 to your computer via a USB cable. The software will automatically detect the connected unit‚ establishing a seamless connection for real-time control and data transfer. The MX-Edit interface mirrors the layout of the MX200’s front panel‚ providing a familiar and intuitive environment for adjusting parameters. Each effect parameter is represented by a virtual knob or slider‚ allowing for precise and detailed adjustments using your mouse or trackpad. The software also displays the current values of each parameter‚ providing visual feedback on your settings. One of the key benefits of MX-Edit is its ability to create‚ edit‚ save‚ and load custom programs. You can easily create new programs from scratch or modify existing factory presets to suit your specific needs. The software allows you to save your custom programs to your computer’s hard drive‚ creating a library of personalized effects settings; These programs can be easily loaded back into the MX200 at any time‚ allowing you to quickly recall your favorite sounds. MX-Edit also provides advanced features for managing your programs‚ such as the ability to rename‚ copy‚ and delete programs. You can also organize your programs into folders‚ making it easy to find and manage your collection. The software also includes a compare function‚ which allows you to compare two programs side-by-side‚ making it easier to identify the differences between them. In addition to program management‚ MX-Edit also provides access to advanced settings that are not available on the MX200’s front panel. These settings include MIDI control assignments‚ input and output levels‚ and routing configurations. The software also allows you to update the MX200’s firmware‚ ensuring that you always have the latest features and bug fixes. The MX-Edit software greatly simplifies the process of creating and managing effects programs for the Lexicon MX200. Its intuitive interface‚ advanced features‚ and seamless integration with the MX200 make it an invaluable tool for any musician or audio engineer.
Factory Presets and Custom Program Creation
The Lexicon MX200 comes equipped with a comprehensive library of 99 expertly crafted factory presets‚ designed to provide a wide range of high-quality reverb‚ delay‚ and modulation effects right out of the box. These presets serve as an excellent starting point for exploring the MX200’s sonic capabilities and can be used as-is or as a foundation for creating your own custom programs. The factory presets are organized into logical categories‚ making it easy to find the perfect effect for your specific needs. Categories include reverbs (such as halls‚ plates‚ and rooms)‚ delays (including mono‚ stereo‚ and multi-tap delays)‚ and modulation effects (like chorus‚ flanger‚ and phaser). Each preset is carefully programmed to deliver a professional sound‚ ensuring that you can quickly find inspiring effects for your music. To access the factory presets‚ simply use the Program Select knob on the MX200’s front panel. As you turn the knob‚ the display will show the name and number of each preset. Once you find a preset that you like‚ press the A or B button to load it into the corresponding effects processor. While the factory presets are a great starting point‚ the true power of the MX200 lies in its ability to create custom programs. Custom program creation allows you to tailor the effects to your specific needs and create unique sounds that are all your own. To create a custom program‚ start by selecting a factory preset that is similar to the sound you are trying to achieve. Then‚ use the MX200’s front panel controls or the MX-Edit software to adjust the various parameters of the effect. You can modify parameters such as reverb time‚ delay time‚ modulation rate‚ and feedback to sculpt the sound to your liking. As you adjust the parameters‚ be sure to listen carefully to the changes in the effect. Experiment with different settings until you find a sound that you are happy with. Once you have created a custom program‚ you can save it to one of the MX200’s user program slots. To save a program‚ press and hold the Store button until the display flashes. Then‚ use the Program Select knob to choose a user program slot. Press the Store button again to save the program. You can overwrite existing user programs or save your new program to an empty slot. With its extensive library of factory presets and its powerful custom program creation capabilities‚ the Lexicon MX200 offers a wealth of sonic possibilities for musicians and audio engineers of all levels.
Troubleshooting and Common Issues
Even with its robust design and user-friendly interface‚ the Lexicon MX200‚ like any electronic device‚ may encounter occasional issues. This section aims to address common problems users might face and provide troubleshooting steps to resolve them. One frequent issue is the absence of audio output. First‚ ensure that the MX200 is properly powered on and that all connections‚ including input and output cables‚ are securely plugged in. Verify that the input signal is present and strong enough. Check the output level settings on the MX200 and the connected audio equipment‚ such as mixers or amplifiers. If using the USB connection for MX-Edit software control‚ confirm that the MX200 is recognized by your computer and that the correct drivers are installed. Another common concern involves unwanted noise or distortion in the processed audio. This could stem from several factors. Begin by checking the input levels to avoid overloading the MX200’s inputs‚ which can cause clipping. Ensure that the gain staging throughout your signal chain is optimized to minimize noise. Ground loops can also introduce unwanted hum; try using balanced cables or a ground lift adapter to isolate the MX200. If using the MX-Edit software‚ confirm that the software is functioning correctly and not introducing any artifacts. Sometimes‚ the MX200 may exhibit unexpected behavior‚ such as freezing or displaying error messages. In such cases‚ a simple power cycle can often resolve the issue. Turn off the MX200‚ wait a few seconds‚ and then power it back on. If the problem persists‚ consider performing a factory reset to restore the MX200 to its original settings. Refer to the manual for instructions on how to perform a factory reset. Connectivity issues with the MX-Edit software can also arise. Make sure you have the latest version of the MX-Edit software and the correct USB drivers installed on your computer. Try using a different USB cable or port to rule out any hardware problems. If the MX200 is not recognized by the software‚ try restarting your computer and the MX200. In some cases‚ the MX200 may not respond to MIDI control messages. Verify that the MIDI settings in your DAW or MIDI controller are correctly configured to communicate with the MX200. Ensure that the MIDI channels are properly matched and that the MX200 is set to receive MIDI messages. By systematically addressing these common issues and following the troubleshooting steps outlined above‚ you can often resolve problems and keep your Lexicon MX200 operating smoothly.
Connectivity and Routing Options
The Lexicon MX200 offers a versatile range of connectivity and routing options‚ making it adaptable to various studio and live sound setups. Understanding these options is crucial for maximizing the unit’s potential and integrating it seamlessly into your existing workflow. The MX200 features two balanced analog inputs and outputs‚ using TRS (Tip-Ring-Sleeve) connectors. These inputs and outputs can also accommodate unbalanced connections‚ providing flexibility when connecting to different types of audio equipment. For optimal performance‚ it’s generally recommended to use balanced connections whenever possible‚ as they help reduce noise and interference. In addition to the analog I/O‚ the MX200 includes a USB port‚ which serves multiple purposes. Firstly‚ it allows for direct connection to a computer for use with the MX-Edit software. This software provides a graphical interface for editing and managing the MX200’s parameters‚ as well as for storing and recalling custom presets. Secondly‚ the USB connection enables the MX200 to function as a USB audio interface‚ allowing you to send and receive audio directly to and from your computer. This can be particularly useful for recording and playback applications. The MX200 offers four different routing configurations‚ providing flexibility in how the two internal effects processors are used. These configurations include Dual Mono‚ Stereo‚ Cascade‚ and Dual Stereo. In Dual Mono mode‚ each input channel is processed independently‚ with its own set of effects. This is ideal for processing two separate mono sources‚ such as vocals and guitars. Stereo mode combines the two input channels into a stereo signal‚ which is then processed by a single set of effects. This is suitable for adding reverb or other stereo effects to a stereo source. Cascade mode routes the output of one effects processor into the input of the other‚ allowing for complex and layered effects. This can be used to create unique and interesting sounds. Dual Stereo mode provides two independent stereo effects processors‚ allowing you to process two separate stereo sources simultaneously. Understanding these routing options is key to tailoring the MX200’s effects to your specific needs. By experimenting with different configurations‚ you can discover new and creative ways to use the unit’s processing power. Furthermore‚ the MX200’s connectivity options allow for seamless integration with other audio equipment‚ making it a valuable addition to any studio or live sound setup.