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ASTYS
Astys • Employee Training • Level 01

AV Signal Flow — Beginner Trainer

Tap each equipment block, compare active and passive systems, troubleshoot “No Sound,” and finish with a quick test.

Golden Rule

OUT → IN → OUT → IN

The output of one device normally feeds the input of the next.

1. Tap through the signal flow

Start from the source and follow the sound to the listener.

2. Passive Speaker System

External amplifier required to drive speaker cones.
🎤 Mic 🎚 Mixer 🧠 DSP ⚡ Amp 🔊 Speaker

Important: Amplifier → passive speaker uses high-current speaker cable (e.g. Speakon / 2-core wire).

3. Active Speaker System

Power amplifier is integrated inside the speaker cabinet.
🎤 Mic 🎚 Mixer 🧠 DSP* 🔊 Active Speaker

Remember: Active speakers require line-level audio signal (XLR/TRS) + AC mains power.
*DSP may be standalone or built into the mixer/active cabinet.

4. Know What the Cable is Carrying

Connection Typical Cable / Connector Carries Think of it as
Mic → MixerXLR (Balanced)Mic-level audio (~millivolts)Delicate Information
Mixer → DSPXLR / TRSLine-level audio (~1 volt)Standard Information
DSP → AmplifierXLR / PhoenixLine-level audio (~1 volt)Standard Information
Amplifier → Passive SpeakerSpeakon / Speaker CableAmplified power (High Voltage/Current)Power + Sound
Mains AC → EquipmentIEC / PowerCON CableElectrical power (110V-240V)Runs the device

5. Safe Power Sequence

Power ON: Source → Mixer → DSP → Amplifier LAST

Power OFF: Amplifier FIRST → DSP → Mixer → Source

Memory trick: The AMP is the loudest—wake it up last and put it to sleep first to prevent speaker pops and damage.

6. “No Sound” Checklist

Check the signal step-by-step. Do not randomly tweak settings.

0 of 8 checks completed

7. Fresher Quick Test

Select an answer for each question. Instant feedback is provided.
Score: 0 / 5
1. Which equipment normally powers a passive speaker?
2. Mixer OUTPUT normally connects to the next device's…
3. Which device is mainly used for EQ, delay, crossover and speaker protection/limiting?
4. Which piece of equipment should normally be switched ON last?
5. An active speaker normally has what built inside its cabinet?