Fixing line in input

[the machine]

Hi all,

I have an axiom EP500 and the line in input is broken. I do not have I depth knowledge as far as using the balanced inputs and if that is a simple solution I may consider that but I really have no clue about that.

I removed the amp from the enclosure and I need to go pick up a set of security torx bits to remove the plate.

Is there any info anyone can give me with how easy this will be to fix? Do I have to do soldering? Is it just a simple plug that needs to be swapped out?

Sorry for the noobness, this is my first attempt at anything like this.

Thanks


Trying to upload a photo but getting a too large file size. Will try and shrink the photos a bit an upload

 

[WaynePflughaupt]

The jack is typically connected directly to a circuit board, so it will require soldering, assuming it’s easily accessible for a noob to work on it.

You could always use the balanced input. You can find RCA to XLR cables at your local guitar store.

Regards,
Wayne A. Pflughaupt

 

[the machine]

 

[shadyJ]

I would just use the balanced input. You can get a unbalanced to balanced conversion cable at radio shack I am sure.

 

[the machine]

 

[the machine]

I would just use the balanced input. You can get a unbalanced to balanced conversion cable at radio shack I am sure.

Thanks shady, so it would still be used the same way? The standard subwoofer out on the amp to the balanced input?

 

[shadyJ]

Yes, just get a RCA male tipped to XLR male tipped cable. You might have to order one online like this. However, if the problem is further up the signal path, than any input you use will not work.

 

[the machine]

Thanks to you too wayne, just seeing your response now. It seems that will be the best way to do this. I'll go grab a cable. One last thing, because I have never used XLR, do I need a cable that goes into both XLR inputs? Or is it Male RCA to Female XLR

 

[the machine]

Man you guys keep beating me to my questions

Thanks!!!

 

[WaynePflughaupt]

Thanks shady, so it would still be used the same way? The standard subwoofer out on the amp to the balanced input?

Yes.

Regards,
Wayne A. Pflughaupt

 

[WaynePflughaupt]

One last thing, because I have never used XLR, do I need a cable that goes into both XLR inputs? Or is it Male RCA to Female XLR

There is only one input. Your cable needs to have a male XLR.

Regards,
Wayne A. Pflughaupt

 

[TLS Guy]

Just remember that XLR inputs are generally at least 3db less sensitive than unbalanced RCA inputs.
So you will likely have to increase your receiver output and or the volume on the sub. Generally RCA inputs are 700 mv to 1 volt full modulation, whereas XLR are usually 1.5 to 2 volts full modulation. It is possible that you can not get enough output from the receiver to drive an XLR input properly. Unfortunately Axiom do not give the specifications of those inputs.

If you can solder you could I think replace that broken RCA socket. Probably I would not take this on as your first project if the socket is directly soldered to the PC board. If it is wired to the board, I don't think you could do much harm.

If you do open the case, you must assume the power supply caps do not have bleeder resistors, although they likely do. These days you can not assume it. (everyone is just looking to save every last cent on manufacture). So you must be prepared that there are still high voltages inside even with the unit unplugged. For safety always bleed down the power supply caps as soon as you have the case open.

 

[highfigh]

If you want to use XLR, you should buy a matching transformer, but it's not going to have an RCA jack, it will 1/4".

What do I see between the RCA and XLR? Is that a 3.5mm jack? Use that, if it is.

Did you use a Monster cable to send the signal to this sub? It's not uncommon for the end to fit too tightly and pulling the sleeve out is the result. I saw that the first time I used a Monster cable in a car audio system, in the early-'90s. Yanked the sleeve right out of the Alpine power amp and I didn't force it, but it had a death grip on the jack. When they started making guitar cables, Fender saw so many gutted input jacks on new amps that they made a public statement that if a Monster cable was used and the jack was damaged, they wouldn't honor the warranty.