Phenyx Pro Sound Board Mixer Audio PTX-15 Introduction

The Phoenix Pro PTX-15 is a versatile 4-channel audio mixer designed for both professionals and enthusiasts. It features an intuitive layout with individual gain controls, 3-band EQ, and 16 digital effects, making it suitable for various applications such as broadcasting, live performances, and podcasting. The mixer also includes Bluetooth connectivity and USB playback capabilities, enhancing its functionality. Priced at $129.99, the PTX-15 provides excellent value for those seeking quality sound mixing in a compact format

SPECIFICATIONS 

Mono Inputs

Equalization

Master Mix Section

Power Supply

System Description

Box Contents

• 1 Audio Mixer
• 1 AC/DC Adapter 
• 1 User’s Manual

System Overview

The PTX-15 is a 4-channel Bluetooth studio mixer. No matter what your audio mixing needs, the Phenyx Pro PTX-15 mixing console provides the performance and features that can take your talent to the next level. The studio mixer is equipped with the following features to offer professional sound quality and flexible personal mix:

• 4 Mono input channels with gold-plated XLRs and balanced line inputs
• Ultra-low noise discrete mic preamps with +48V phantom power
• Balanced inputs for high signal integrity
• 3-Band EQ on all channels with built-in 16 digital special effects
• Extremely high headroom to offer a more dynamic range
• Separate master mix outputs control with stereo graphic equalizer for tone control over different frequencies, and headphone monitoring function when SOLO button is pressed.
• USB/FLASH READER/MP3 compatibility. Bluetooth wireless streaming function, which enables users to stream music tunes from iPad, iPhone, and Android smartphones.

Description

The Phoenix Pro PTX-15 boasts a robust design with a sturdy metal chassis and durable knobs. It includes 15 input channels, each with its own gain control, allowing for precise adjustment of signal levels. The mixer features a clear and intuitive interface, making it easy to navigate even for beginners. Additionally, it supports phantom power for condenser microphones and has a built-in headphone amplifier for monitoring. The PTX-15 also includes a USB interface for recording directly to a computer, facilitating seamless integration into digital workflows.

Phenyx Operating Instructions

Control Element & Connector

INPUT CHANNEL SECTION

1. BALANCE INPUT (MIC)
   Standard XLR balanced input connector. +48V phantom power is available on each input mic socket.
2. LINE INPUT
   Unbalanced mic input connector, designed for unbalanced high impedance input signal.
3. GAIN CONTROL
   Adjust the input signal level.
4. HI EQ
   High-range EQ control for up to 15dB of boost or cut at 12KHz and above. Use it to add sizzle to cymbals, and add an overall sense of transparency or edge to the keyboard, vocals, and guitar.
5. MID EQ
   Mid-range EQ control for up to 12 dB of boost or cut centered at 2.5KHz. Midrange EQ is often thought of as the most dynamic because the frequencies that define any particular sound are almost always found in this range. You can create useful EQ changes by using this knob to adjust the sound.
6. LOW EQ
   Low-range EQ control for up to 15dB boost or cut at 80Hz and below. This frequency represents the punch in bass drums and bass guitar.
7. EFX SEND
8. PAN
   The pan control sends a fader signal to either the left or
   right and G1 or G2 main busses. In the center position, equal amounts of signal are sent to the left and right or G1 & G2 busses.
9. CHANNEL FADER
   Adjust the volume of the sound input from the microphone or other sources connected to each channel. It works together with the master fader. The normal operating position is at the “0” mark, providing a 4dB gain above that point if required.
10. PFL SWITCH
    This switch enables users to monitor the channel’s pre-fader signal. Press “SOLO“ on the master panel and press “SOLO” in this section, then the channel’s pre-fader unprocessed signal will be sent to PHONES and the user can monitor the sound before output.

MIXER OUTPUT SECTION

1. MAIN OUTPUT JACK  (LEFT/RIGHT)
   Output mix to the main amplifier through a 1/4’’ jack.
2. AUX SEND/RETURN JACK
   Connect all kinds of effects from outside
3. RECORD PIN JACK
   Connect with the cassette deck when recording the mixed output
4. USB/BLUETOOTH PLAYER
   USB playback for WAV/WMA/MP3. It also has a Bluetooth function to connect to smartphones/iPads wirelessly.

MASTER SECTION

• SEND/EFFECT
  Adjust the strength of the after-effect signal 
• HEADPHONE LEVEL
  When the SOLO button next to it was pressed, this knob can be used to adjust the volume of signal sent to headphones for sound monitoring
• EFFECT DISPLAY
  LCD for 16 effects
• EFFECT SELECTION
  Turn the knob to select different effects  and press the knob to confirm the selection
• EFFECT LEVEL
  Adjust the volume of the effect signal
• STEREOGRAPHIC EQUALIZER 
  Equalizer provided for tone control and precise high-quality sound over each frequency
• OUTPUT MAIN FADER (LEFT/RIGHT)
  Master fader for adjustment of left/right output volume
• MP3 LEVEL
  Adjust the volume of MP3/Bluetooth signal input
• PHANTOM POWER SELECTION
  Press this button when the phantom power supply is switched on. The phantom power supply is necessary for condenser microphones and is activated when using the Mic/Line input jack.
• PHONE OUTPUT
  Connect headphones to this jack to monitor output sound. If the SOLO button is pressed, you can monitor the pre-fader sound before output.

Set-Up

1. AC Power In
   Use the included AC adapter or connect the device to a wall outlet
2. Audio Connection
   You will need a large number of cables for different applications.
   See above.
   Please use commercial RCA cables to connect the 2-track inputs and outputs. You can, of course, also connect unbalanced devices to the balanced inputs/outputs. To do this, use either mono plugs or stereo plugs with the ring and sleeve bridged (pins 1 and 3 in the case of XLR connectors). Never use unbalanced XLR connectors (PIN 1 and 3 connected) on the MIC input connectors when using the phantom power supply.

Troubleshooting

Common issues with the Phenyx Pro PTX-15 include low audio levels, distortion, and connectivity problems. 

• To resolve low audio levels, check that all gain controls are adjusted properly and that the input sources are functioning correctly. 
• Distortion can be addressed by reducing the gain levels or using the EQ to balance the frequencies. 
• For connectivity issues, ensure that all cables are securely connected and not damaged.
• Important instructions and warnings include avoiding overloading the mixer with too many high-gain sources, keeping the mixer away from moisture, and using the correct voltage specification to prevent damage.

Technical Support & Warranty Information 

Phenyx Terlrd: logy ( "Phenyx" ) warrants Phenyx products against evident de­fects in material and workmanship for a period of one year from the date of origi­nal purchase for use. This warranty is valid exclusively in the US and applies only to the original owner. If you discover a defect covered by this warranty, Phenyx will repair or replace the product at our sole discretion using new or refurbished components. Performance of repairs or replacements under this Warranty is sub­ject to the registration of your product at https://www.phenyxusa.com/registerproduct 

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Durable Construction: Built with a sturdy metal chassis for long-lasting performance.
• Comprehensive Features: Includes 15 input channels, built-in effects processor, and USB interface.
• User-Friendly Interface: Intuitive design makes it easy to use for both beginners and professionals.
• Affordable Price Point: Priced competitively without compromising on quality.
• Versatile Connectivity Options: Supports a wide range of input sources including microphones, instruments, and external devices.

Cons

• Limited Effects Customization: While the built-in effects processor is useful, it offers limited customization options compared to external processors.
• No Built-In Compressor: Users may need to add an external compressor for advanced dynamic control.
• The mixer is relatively large and may require significant space in your setup.

Customer Reviews

Customers have praised the Phenyx Pro PTX-15 for its robust build quality, clear sound, and ease of use. Many users appreciate the comprehensive set of features that cater to various audio needs. However, some users have noted that the effects processor could be more customizable and that an external compressor may be necessary for advanced applications.

Common complaints include the mixer's large size and the lack of a built-in compressor. Despite these, the overall consensus is positive, with many recommending the PTX-15 as a reliable choice for both professional and amateur audio enthusiasts.