The 8 channels of the single-zone FSM8 are configured as a microphone section with 4 mono input channels (all with optional phantom power), plus a music section with 4 stereo input channels. Each section has its own tone controls, every input has a preset gain control, and all are adjustable through holes in the rear panel. The flexibility of the FSM8 is underlined by the option to connect an auxiliary input such as a jukebox, via a preset gain control, which will automatically take priority over all other music channels.
Other features add to the versatility of the FSM8. These include the ability to convert any mono input from mic to line (both balanced), the option to route some mic channels through the music EQ path, the facility to derive either a stereo or mono master output signal, and the option to reconfigure channel 5 as an effects send and return channel which is ideal for adding reverb effects to mic channels.
A switchable voice override function allows a signal in the mic path to attenuate any music signals, with threshold and attenuation levels adjustable internally. The FSM8 can also be linked to a fire alarm which will trigger an automatic music mute circuit while still allowing mic channels to operate normally to control evacuation procedures. The robust components incorporated in the FSM8 are housed in a 1U rack-mount case which takes up minimal space. XLR connectors on the outputs and the mic input channels (1-4), combine with gold-plated phono sockets on the stereo inputs (5-8) to provide first-class audio connections. Access to all rear gain trims can be blanked to prevent unauthorized tampering.
(Ruth Rossington)
