• Adds three stereo/dual-mono channels to Xcelon mixer in just 8 HP
• Two stereo FX sends and two stereo output mix busses selectable per-channel
• VCA-based volume controls with CV input and responsive LED indicators
• Configurable jumpers for dual-mono operation allowing up to six mono sources
• Pre/post-fader direct output ports for all three stereo channels

More inputs, less HP

Xcelon Xi3 is a compact three-channel stereo input expander for the Xcelon eurorack mixer.  The module includes core mixing features and connections meant to expand the number of mixer inputs without sacrificing valuable space.

Connection & Configuration

Xi3 is connected to the main Xcelon mixer using the supplied 16-pin ribbon cable, from its port labeled MIXER to one of Xcelon’s two expansion ports labeled EXPANDER 1 or EXPANDER 2. The mixer supports up to two channel expanders using any combination of Xi3 and/or XP3 modules. It is possible to connect more than two channel expanders using a flying bus cable, but low noise performance cannot be guaranteed.

Each of the three channels has a pair of audio input jacks (IN 10 L, IN 10 R, etc.) for left and right stereo signals. These inputs are designed to accept typical eurorack-level audio signals from -5 V to +5 V (10 Vpp). The jacks are also normalled such that a single mono source in the left jack is simply copied to the right.

Alternatively, two discrete mono sources can also share a channel by configuring the two rear jumpers on the back of the module of the corresponding channel. In the default STEREO configuration, the two inputs are positioned hard left and hard right. With the jumpers in the DUAL-MONO position, the channel input signals are mixed together and positioned in stereo center. Signals that do not need stereo panning can then be doubled-up on a single channel, such as kick and snare drum, two different bass sounds, etc. This allows Xi3 to handle up to six independent mono sources in a compact footprint.

Expanded Mixing Applications

In addition to general channel expansion, Xi3 is ideal for inputs that do not require frequent hands-on control but remain an important part of the mix. These may include more advanced FX returns, where processed signals are sent back into the mix and rerouted back to the FX busses to create feedback effects or feed into other effect chains for complex textures.

Xi3 is also well suited for integrating stereo submixes, such as a drum submix from another mixer, or parallel processed signals returning from other modules. For example, signals tapped and sent out through the IO module for processing can be returned to Xi3 as stereo channels, with control over volume, stereo routing, and FX sends.

By handling these types of sources, Xi3 makes it easy to integrate supporting elements and processed layers without using full-featured mixer channels.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Audio Inputs: 6 x 3.5 mm jacks (3 stereo pairs)
• CV Inputs: 3 x 3.5 mm jacks (0 to +5 V)
• Input Impedance: 47 kΩ
• Width: 8 HP
• Depth: 1.5 in (38 mm)
• Weight: 4.4 oz (125 g)
• Power: +12 V 55 mA, -12 V 50 mA