Radial Engineering EXTC-500 Effects Loop interface Connects Guitar Pedals to the Recording System

Radial Engineering's EXTC is an effects loop processor that converts +4dB balanced signals to HI-Z guitar effects pedals and then reconverts them back so that they can easily be manipulated in the pro-audio environment.

The EXTC begins with separate send and receive controls that enable the engineer to adjust levels as needed. These are supplemented with a mix/blend control that allows the original signal to be blended with effects to achieve the perfect balance. This is particularly important with bass as most guitar effects are focused in the mid range which invariably cut off the important bass frequencies when processed. One merely adjusts the mix between wet and dry signals for amazing results.

An important feature on the EXTC is the 180º polarity reverse. Most folks do not realize that guitar pedals often reverse the phase of the signal as it passes through the effect. This is only noticed when combining dry and wet signals when they cancel each other out. The phase reverse function solves the problem by inverting the polarity and brings both the wet and dry signals back into absolute phase.

The EXTC’s Omniport™ is configured to work with a traditional patchbay using a TRS tip-send and ring-return format. This enables the EXTC to quickly be patched into any signal path as needed. And with its 500 Series-style mounting format, it's already right on your rack, taking up very little room so you can direct the signal anywhere you would like.

Features

• Balanced interface for guitar effects pedals
• Optimize signal path with separate send and receive level controls
• Transformer isolation eliminates hum and buzz from ground loops

Specifications

• Audio Circuit Type: Solid state with transformer coupled effects loop
• Frequency Response:
  • Dry: 10 Hz - 21 kHz; 0 dBu, -3 dBu
  • Wet: 10 Hz - 21 kHz; 0 dBu, -3 dBu
• Dynamic Range: Dry, 94 dB; Wet, >99 dB
• Gain: Dry, +5 dB; Wet, +27 dB
• Total Harmonic Distortion:
  • Dry: < 0.0006% 0 dBu output
  • Wet: < 0.0012% 0 dB output
• Intermodulation Distortion: Dry, -117 dBu; Wet, -110 dBu
• Signal to Noise: Dry, 94 dB; Wet, >99 dB
• Maximum Input: Dry, +26 dBu; Wet, +20 dBu
• Data Compression: 60 mA, ±16V DC
• Features: 180° polarity reverse, OmniPort
• Input Connectors: 1/4", XLR
  • Impedance: 1.5 kΩ unbalanced, 15 kΩ balanced
• Output Connectors: 1/4", XLR
• Conditions: For use in dry locations only, 5-40°C