TEST: Eventide Mixing Link

 Let’s face it, we all love stomp boxes, right? A more or less large floorboard at the front of the stage and the ambitious guitarist and his four- to five-string friend on the other side of the stage conjure up a wide variety of sound worlds from a simple, single-channel amplifier, from spacey, fuzzy down to bitterly evil and deeply dark, depending on the equipment. But what does the weakest link in the chain do, which also forms the center of the action on stage? Shouldn't the man/woman at the microphone also be allowed to use small aids to bring his/her skills into the right sonic frame in the form of comparatively simple stage cabling? Have fun searching!

Anyone who has ever made the effort to find a simple control center in the form of stomp boxes for vocals will soon give up, comparatively disillusioned. Either you have to deal with complex multi-FX pedals and the corresponding sales prices, or you can try to torture your symmetrical microphone signal with the unbalanced guitar effects. All in all very unsatisfactory.

To counteract this, the company Eventide has launched the Mixing Link (I love this play on words), a multifunctional stompbox manufactured in the USA, which, in the function of a Swiss army knife, solves all problems in terms of level, loop, and want to solve connection variants. That smells like an ambitious concept!


Construction

In keeping with the intended use, the Eventide Mixing Link has been designed as a pure foot pedal. Weighing only 430 grams with dimensions (HxWxD): 91 mm x 67 mm x 38 mm, it takes up no more space than a standard distorter. The product can also be operated easily on smooth surfaces using the four adhesive feet provided, but as with any floor pedal, it is recommended to fix the pedal on a floorboard.

The central function of the Eventide Mixing Link is signal processing through the internal microphone preamplifier, in combination with the integration of external FX floor pedals, or the feeding of 2 completely different signals into one input. The times when only 19 inch devices delivered official effect sounds while the floor department struggled with inferior simulations, especially in the reverb area, are long gone. Therefore, a product like this makes a lot of sense, especially from the point of view of transportability. The product receives its operating voltage via the included 9V power supply or via an internally placed 9V battery, which, however, requires unscrewing the base plate to install.

In order to be able to integrate as many third-party manufacturers as possible, the Eventide Mixing Link has a diverse number of inputs and outputs. Starting with a balanced combination socket that accepts both XLR and TRS plugs for line signals. If necessary, 48V phantom power can be added, and the microphone input sensitivity can also be adjusted using a pressure switch. Two LEDs provide information about the level present, while a separate jack input also enables the connection of an instrument. A ground lift helps with devices that are already grounded, such as a guitar preamp. In addition, an AUX signal can be fed in via a stereo jack and headphones can be connected via another stereo mini jack.

Practice

If you list the entire range of uses of the Eventide Mixing Link, you come to the following possible uses:

DI box with ground lift
A/B box between 2 guitar amps
Input signal router
Output signal switcher
Microphone preamp
Smartphone recording interface
Control center floor pedals
Headphone amplifier

In terms of sound, the microphone amplifier is impressive, especially since it pushes even weak output levels to a decent level with up to 65 dB of catch-up gain. The entire product is very quiet and therefore cuts a fine figure in the studio. If noises occur, they are probably to be found in the connected peripherals.


Conclusion

With the Eventide Mixing Link, the American manufacturer has a kind of Swiss Army knife on the market for under 300 euros, which is quite something. In addition to a high-quality microphone preamplifier, the product can be used to carry out at least seven other actions in terms of input and output management that would otherwise require their own tool.

A great product that deserves a closer look!

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Additional Informations:

The Evolution of Direct Injection (DI) Boxes: A Comprehensive History

Introduction:
In the realm of audio engineering and live sound reinforcement, direct injection (DI) boxes play a pivotal role in signal processing and connectivity. These indispensable devices have a rich and storied history, evolving from rudimentary solutions to sophisticated tools used by professionals worldwide. This article delves into the fascinating journey of DI boxes, tracing their origins, technological advancements, and enduring relevance in modern audio production.

Origins:
The genesis of DI boxes can be traced back to the mid-20th century when audio engineers grappled with the challenges of interfacing high-impedance instruments, such as electric guitars and keyboards, with low-impedance audio systems. The advent of electric instruments posed a conundrum, as their unbalanced outputs often resulted in signal degradation and impedance mismatches when connected directly to mixing consoles or amplifiers.

Early Solutions:
To address these impedance issues, engineers devised rudimentary impedance matching transformers, which served as precursors to modern DI boxes. These transformers effectively converted the high-impedance signal of instruments like electric guitars into a low-impedance signal suitable for direct connection to audio systems. While these early solutions were effective to some extent, they lacked the versatility and functionality of contemporary DI boxes.

Pioneering Innovations:
The evolution of DI boxes gained momentum in the 1960s and 1970s, driven by advancements in audio technology and the burgeoning demand for improved signal fidelity. Engineers and manufacturers began experimenting with active electronics, incorporating preamplifiers and equalization circuitry into DI box designs. These innovations not only addressed impedance issues but also provided greater control over signal levels and tone shaping.

Rise of Professional Audio:
The proliferation of professional audio systems in recording studios, live venues, and broadcast facilities during the latter half of the 20th century further propelled the evolution of DI boxes. As the demand for high-quality audio reproduction soared, manufacturers responded by refining and enhancing the capabilities of DI boxes to meet the exacting standards of audio professionals. This period witnessed the emergence of renowned DI box manufacturers and brands that remain influential today.

Technological Advancements:
The turn of the 21st century ushered in a new era of technological innovation in the field of audio engineering, with DI boxes evolving to incorporate digital signal processing (DSP) and other advanced features. Digital DI boxes offered unparalleled versatility, allowing users to emulate various amplifier and cabinet configurations, apply effects processing, and seamlessly integrate with digital audio workstations (DAWs) and software-based recording systems.

Diverse Applications:
The versatility and functionality of modern DI boxes have expanded their applications beyond traditional instrument connectivity. In addition to instrument-level signals, DI boxes are commonly used to interface line-level signals from audio sources such as mixers, DJ equipment, and media players. Furthermore, DI boxes equipped with ground lift switches and phase inversion capabilities are indispensable tools for troubleshooting and eliminating common audio issues, such as ground loops and phase cancellations.

Live Sound and Studio Environments:
In live sound reinforcement settings, DI boxes are indispensable for connecting instruments and audio sources to mixing consoles, amplifiers, and signal processors. Their robust construction, reliable performance, and ability to withstand the rigors of touring make DI boxes indispensable companions for live sound engineers and touring musicians. In recording studios, DI boxes serve a dual purpose, facilitating direct recording of instruments while also serving as essential tools for re-amping and signal routing.

Continued Innovation and Adaptation:
As audio technology continues to evolve, so too will the design and functionality of DI boxes. Manufacturers are constantly innovating to meet the evolving needs of audio professionals, incorporating features such as impedance matching switches, transformer emulation, digital connectivity, and wireless transmission capabilities. Moreover, the proliferation of compact and portable DI box designs has made them essential accessories for musicians, audio engineers, and content creators alike.

Conclusion:
The evolution of DI boxes epitomizes the ingenuity and adaptability of the audio engineering community in addressing the ever-changing needs of the industry. From humble beginnings as impedance matching transformers to sophisticated signal processing tools, DI boxes have traversed a remarkable journey of innovation and refinement. As they continue to play a vital role in audio production, DI boxes remain a testament to the enduring legacy of technological advancement and creative ingenuity in the realm of sound reinforcement and recording.


Headphone amplifiers, or headphone amps, have become essential components in the realm of audio playback, providing enhanced audio quality and driving power to headphones and earphones. The evolution of headphone amplifiers is a testament to the pursuit of audio excellence and the ever-changing landscape of audio technology. This article traces the origins, technological advancements, and enduring significance of headphone amplifiers in the realm of audio reproduction.

Origins:
The history of headphone amplifiers can be traced back to the early days of audio playback technology when headphones were primarily used in telephone communication and radio broadcasting. As audio fidelity became a paramount concern, engineers began exploring ways to amplify headphone signals to achieve greater clarity and volume. Early headphone amplifiers were rudimentary in design, often employing vacuum tubes and simple amplification circuits to boost audio signals.

Emergence of High-Fidelity Audio:
The post-World War II era witnessed a surge in demand for high-fidelity audio equipment, driven by the growing popularity of home audio systems and hi-fi enthusiasts. Headphones emerged as a preferred listening option for audiophiles seeking immersive audio experiences without disturbing others. Manufacturers responded by developing dedicated headphone amplifiers designed to deliver pristine audio quality and ample power to drive headphones with varying impedance levels.

Transition to Solid-State Technology:
The advent of solid-state electronics in the 1960s marked a significant milestone in the evolution of headphone amplifiers. Solid-state amplifiers, characterized by transistors and integrated circuits, offered several advantages over their vacuum tube counterparts, including greater reliability, efficiency, and compactness. This transition to solid-state technology paved the way for the development of smaller, more portable headphone amplifiers suitable for personal audio devices and portable music players.

Rise of Portable Audio:
The proliferation of portable audio devices, such as Walkmans and portable CD players, in the 1980s and 1990s fueled the demand for compact headphone amplifiers capable of delivering high-quality audio on the go. Manufacturers responded by introducing portable headphone amplifiers with built-in rechargeable batteries, allowing users to enjoy superior audio fidelity without being tethered to stationary audio systems. These portable headphone amps became indispensable accessories for audiophiles and music enthusiasts alike.

Integration with Digital Audio Players:
The dawn of the digital age brought about a paradigm shift in audio playback technology, with the rise of digital audio players (DAPs) and digital-to-analog converters (DACs). Headphone amplifiers evolved to integrate seamlessly with DAPs and DACs, serving as intermediary devices to enhance audio quality and drive high-impedance headphones with precision and finesse. The synergy between headphone amplifiers and digital audio sources revolutionized portable audio playback, allowing users to experience studio-quality sound on the go.

Specialized Applications:
In addition to consumer audio playback, headphone amplifiers found applications in professional audio monitoring, recording, and mastering environments. Studio-grade headphone amplifiers equipped with multiple headphone outputs, individual volume controls, and pristine signal paths became essential tools for audio engineers, producers, and musicians. These specialized headphone amplifiers ensured accurate monitoring and precise sound reproduction during critical recording and mixing sessions.

Audiophile Culture and Customization:
The resurgence of audiophile culture in the 21st century fueled a renaissance in headphone amplifier design and customization. Enthusiasts and hobbyists began experimenting with DIY headphone amplifier kits, modifying existing designs, and exploring alternative amplification topologies to tailor their listening experiences to personal preferences. This DIY ethos gave rise to a vibrant community of headphone amplifier enthusiasts, sharing knowledge, insights, and passion for audio excellence.

Continued Innovation and Diversification:
As consumer demand for high-quality audio continues to grow, headphone amplifier manufacturers are pushing the boundaries of innovation and diversification. Modern headphone amplifiers boast a myriad of features, including balanced headphone outputs, impedance matching switches, digital signal processing (DSP), wireless connectivity, and advanced amplification technologies such as Class-A, Class-AB, and Class-D amplifiers. Furthermore, the integration of smart features and app-based controls has transformed headphone amplifiers into versatile audio companions for discerning listeners.

Conclusion:
The evolution of headphone amplifiers reflects the dynamic interplay between technological innovation, consumer demand, and audiophile culture. From humble beginnings as rudimentary amplification circuits to sophisticated audio playback solutions, headphone amplifiers have evolved into indispensable components of modern audio systems. As they continue to shape the landscape of audio reproduction, headphone amplifiers stand as a testament to the enduring pursuit of audio excellence and the transformative power of innovation in the realm of sound.