HEADPHONE DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM
The Canford headphone distribution system allows the use of a power amp for high-quality, high-volume undistorted listening via headphones. Control of loudness and channel selection is possible directly to the musician or artist in the studio or on stage. Many units can be cascaded, using 4 core cables with Speakon connectors, or mic cables with 3 pin XLR connectors, according to the unit. By using a power amp as a source, higher voltage swings are available than with normal headphone drive sources, consequently allowing connection of a large number of headphones, even of low impedance.
The special design of this unit means it will safely operate connected to sources delivering upto 200 watts into 8 ohms. Note however that the XLR version is intended for connection to headphone and amplifier outputs which have a peak output voltage of less than 34V AC, due to the maximum permissible voltage that may be present on an XLR connector. This version must not be connected to amplifier outputs which have a power output capability of greater than 72 watts into 8 ohms.
High power MIL grade conductive-plastic potentiometers are used, the unit handles voltage swings of ±40 volts (200watts/8ohms). A source selection switch allows for selective channel monitoring (stereo, channel 1, channel 2). Headphone connection is on a Neutrik locking jack socket (accepts A and B gauge jacks, latches with A gauge jacks).
The Speakon version has Channel 1 on pins 1+/1–, and Channel 2 on pins 2+/2–, to permit single cable connection if a stereo or split feed is required. As many power amplifiers have separate connectors for each output channel, each wired on pins 1+/1–, a Speakon “combiner” unit is also available for stereo and split feed applications. This has 3 Speakon sockets, 2 wired as inputs with pins 1+/1– connected, and one wired as an output with 1+/1– and 2+/2– connected. Suitable 4 core cables, with Speakon connectors, are available as accessories to connect the system (including from amplifier to combiner unit, if required).
The XLR version has one male and one female 3 pin XLR to permit cascade connection.