GEM series: what phantom power is and how to use it

All the mixers in our GEM series (GEM-05USB, GEM-08USB, and GEM-12USB) feature Phantom Power, also called "+48V". Phantom Power sends direct current to microphones that need power to drive active circuitry, such as condenser mics. When you switch on the "+48V Phantom" button, the mixer sends 48V to your microphones through the XLR input jacks and XLR cable.

What Phantom Power does to your mics

With Phantom Power on, 48V goes to any microphone connected to the mixer over XLR. Most dynamic microphones handle 48V without any issues, but the direct current can damage some specialty mics, particularly ribbon mics. Check with your microphone's manufacturer to confirm your mic can safely receive phantom power before you press the +48V button.

Avoid the pop

Turn the channel volume down before you connect or disconnect XLR cables while Phantom Power is on. If you leave the volume up, you'll hear a loud pop.