Fostex FM-4 Rugged 4 Chan Input 2 Chan Output Field Mixer

Description

As a 4-channel portable audio mixer designed specifically for EFP, broadcast, on-location TV and film applications, you would expect exceptional audio performance with flexible output options and the FM-4 does not disappoint. Each of the 4 balanced XLR inputs can accept mic or line level inputs and features 12T and 48V Phantom power, an ultra-low noise pre-amp design with high quality custom transformers and switchable Hi Shelving EQ and Mid Sweep EQ. Metering is taken care of by an easy to read, highly visible organic LED display with high resolution metering offering both VU and peak level indication, battery level and selectable stereo and mono modes.

There are multiple output options including sub outputs, a Tape output and 2 x AUX outputs with channel select. The main outputs (x2) and sub outputs (x2) also double as 1-4ch Direct Out (post-fader). In addition, a dedicated monitor return input is available for referencing audio from VTR or Camera feeds.

With their low-noise circuitry, exceptional audio fidelity and unique feature sets the new Fostex Portable Mixers are not only more than suitable for all professional broadcast and film applications, they set a new benchmark for portable on-location mixing devices.

Options

Battery Pack for FM-4

The FM-3 and FM-4 uses an Internal 8 x AA batteries or DC10-24V external powering. It has more than 6 hours operation with alkaline batteries (phantom off).

Carrying Case for FM-4

A carrying case is also available. Model SC-FM4 is manufactured from high-grade materials, is ultra-durable and includes pockets for accessories / batteries etc.

Inputs
INPUT 1 through INPUT 4: XLR-3-31 type (transformer balanced)
MIC input
Input impedance: 2 k Ohm or more
Nominal input level: -70 dBu to -30 dBu
Phantom Power: P48V or T12V (selectable)
LINE input
Input impedance: 10 k Ohm or more
Nominal input level: -20 dBu to +4 dBu
AUX IN: XLR-5-51 type (electronically balanced)
Input impedance: 20 k Ohm or more
Nominal input level: +4 dBu
RTN IN: Connector: ø3.5mm stereo mini-phone jack (unbalanced)
Input impedance: 10 k Ohm or more
Nominal input level: -10 dBV

Outputs
MAIN OUT (L, R) / DIRECT OUT (CH1-2): XLR-3-32 type (transformer balanced)
Applicable load impedance: 600 Ohm or more
Nominal output level: +4, 0, -10 or -60 dBu (FM-4) / +4, 0, -20 or -60 dBu (FM-3) (switchable)
FM-4 SUB OUT / DIRECT OUT (CH 3-4): XLR-5-52 type (electronically balanced)
FM-3 SUB OUT: XLR-5-52 type (electronically balanced)
Applicable load impedance: 10 k Ohm or more
Nominal output level: +4, 0, -20 or -60 dBu (switchable)
TAPE OUT: Connector: ø 3.5mm stereo mini-phone jack (unbalanced)
Applicable load impedance: 10 k Ohm or more
Nominal output level: -10 dBV
AUX OUT: Connector: ø3.5mm stereo mini-phone jack (unbalanced)
Applicable load impedance: 10 k Ohm or more
Nominal output level: -10 dBV or -60 dBV (switchable)
PHONES: Connectors : 1/4” stereo phone jack and ø3.5mm stereo mini-phone jack
Applicable load impedance: 8 Ohm or more
LIMITER:
Attack time: approx 5 msec. Release time: approx 200 msec.
Threshold level: +6, +9 or +12dBu (FM-4) / +6 or +12dBu (FM-3) output level
Ratio: 3:1 or 5:1 (level and ratio can be selected using the status mode)
DC IN: XLR-4-32 type (male). Input voltage: DC10V to DC 24V
DC OUT: Hirose 4 pin (female). Applicable plug: Hirose HR10A-7P-4P. DC7.2V - 24

Performance
Frequency response:
LINE IN - MAIN OUT: 20Hz to 20kHz +/- 1dB (reference level)
MIC IN - MAIN OUT: 40Hz to 20kHz +/- 1dB (reference level)
HEADPHONES (32 Ohm load, 25mW output power): 20Hz to 20kHz +/- 3dB
S/N ratio (A-weighted):
LINE (INPUT GAIN: +4 dBu): 80dB or better
MIC (INPUT GAIN: -70dBu: 55dB or better (equivalent input noise: -125 dBu)
Total harmonic distortion:
LINE: 0.1% or less at 1 kHz (Input Gain +4dBu)
MIC: 0.1% or less at 1kHz (Input Gain -70dBu)
Headphones residual noise: (PHONES level control at minimum)
-72 dBV or less (A-weighted)
Crosstalk: -70 dB or less at 1kHz
HPF: 40Hz to 200Hz, -12dB/oct. The cutoff frequency is continuously sweepable.
EQ: HI: 10kHz fixed, +/-12dB MID: 200-8kHz variable, +/-12dB

Physical
External dimensions: 274 (W) x 57 (H) x 180 (D) mm (Including protrusions)
Weight: Approximately 1.5kg (not including the internal batteries)

Internal batteries: Eight AA batteries (alkaline: 12V, nickel hydride: 9.6V)
Power requirement: DC7.2 to 12V
External power supply: Optional AC adaptor (AD15C / AD15-4300)