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Avid Mbox User Guide

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Mbox User Guide
Version 8.0.4
Legal Notices
This guide is copyrighted ©2010 by Avid Technology, Inc., (hereafter “Avid”), with all rights reserved. Under copyright laws, this guide may not be duplicated in whole or in part without the written consent of Avid.
Product features, specifications, system requirements, and availability are subject to change without notice.
Guide Part Number 9329-65002-00 REV B 06/10
Documentation Feedback
At Avid, we are always looking for ways to improve our documentation. If you have comments, corrections, or suggestions regarding our documentation, email us at techpubs@avid.com.

contents

Chapter 1. Welcome to Mbox . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Mbox Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Pro Tools LE Capabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
System Requirements and Compatibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Conventions Used in This Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
About www.avid.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Chapter 2. Installing Pro Tools on Mac . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Installation Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Installing Pro Tools LE and Connecting Your Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Launching Pro Tools LE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Additional Software on the Pro Tools Installer Disc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Uninstalling Pro Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Chapter 3. Installing Pro Tools on Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Installation Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Installing Pro Tools LE and Connecting Your Interface. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Launching Pro Tools LE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Additional Software on the Pro Tools Installer Disc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Uninstalling Pro Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Chapter 4. Configuring Your Pro Tools System. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Starting Up or Shutting Down Your System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Configuring Pro Tools LE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Configuring the Pro Tools Hardware Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Optimizing a Mac System for Pro Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Optimizing a Windows System for Pro Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Contents iii
Chapter 5. Mbox Hardware Overview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Mbox Front Panel Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Mbox Back Panel Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Chapter 6. Making Hardware Connections. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Connecting Headphones . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Connecting a Sound System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Connecting Audio Inputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Connecting a Microphone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Connecting Instruments to the Mbox . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
MIDI Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Appendix A. Using the Driver Control Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Presets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Layouts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Additional Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Stereo Mixes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Using the Stereo Mix Section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Appendix B. Using the Multi Button. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Using the Multi Button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Press and Release Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Press and Hold Options. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Hold Duration Options. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
Appendix C. Configuring AMS (Mac OS X Only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Audio MIDI Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
MIDI Patch Name Support. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Appendix D. Configuring MIDI Studio Setup (Windows Only). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
MIDI Studio Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
MIDI Patch Name Support. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Mbox User Guideiv
Appendix E. Hard Drive Configuration and Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Avoid Recording to the System Drive. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Supported Drive Formats and Drive Types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Formatting an Audio Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Partitioning Drives. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
Defragmenting an Audio Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Using Mac Drives on Windows Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Hard Disk Storage Space . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Appendix F. Troubleshooting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Backing Up Your Work . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Common Issues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Performance Factors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
Before You Call Avid Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Appendix G. Resources. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
About the Pro Tools Guides . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
Appendix H. Compliance Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
Environmental Compliance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
EMC (Electromagnetic Compliance). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
Safety Compliance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
Contents v
Mbox User Guidevi
chapter 1

Welcome to Mbox

Welcome to the Mbox® audio and MIDI production system from Avid
Mbox and Pro Tools LE USB 2.0-equipped computer with two channels of analog audio input and output, two channels of digital audio input and output, MIDI In and Out ports, analog monitor outs, and a head­phone output with front panel level control. Mbox provides professional-quality mic pre­amps and 24-bit/96 kHz analog-to-digital and digital-to-analog converters.
®
.
®
provide your

Mbox Features

Mbox provides the following:
• Two channels of analog audio input with high-quality microphone preamps and swit­chable 48V phantom power
• Analog input jacks include two XLR/TRS combo-jacks and two 1/4 TS jacks, with switchable Mic, Line, and DI levels
• Soft-limit feature on each input
• –20 dB pad available separately on each an­alog input channel
• Two channels of S/PDIF digital input and out­put
• S/PDIF inputs are available independently, in addition to analog inputs 1–2
• S/PDIF outputs mirror analog outs 1–2 and can also work independent of the analog outputs
• Up to a total of four channels of input, using analog and digital inputs simultaneously
• One MIDI In and one MIDI Out port, provid­ing 16 MIDI input channels and 16 MIDI out­put channels
• Two 1/4-inch TRS analog monitor outputs
• 24-bit A/D and D/A converters, supporting sample rates up to 96 kHz
• Low Latency Monitoring (LLM) with adjust­able balance between input and playback
• Dim and Mono buttons
• 1/4-inch (TRS) stereo headphone output with adjustable level control
• On-board reverb and delay effects (useful for monitoring while tracking vocals)
• Soft-limit analog function
• On-board Tuner
• Multi-function, assignable Soft button
• USB 2.0 High-speed operation
Mbox will not function properly if connected to a passive USB hub. If you need to use a hub for other USB peripherals, use a pow­ered hub or a separate dedicated USB port for Mbox to function properly.
Chapter 1: Welcome to Mbox 1

Pro Tools LE Capabilities

Pro Tools LE on Mac or Windows provides the following capabilities with Mbox:
• Playback of up to 48 mono or stereo digital audio tracks, or a combination of playing back and re cording up to 48 mo no or s tere o digital audio tracks, depending on the ca­pabilities of your computer.
• Up to 128 audio tracks (with up to 48 active tracks), 128 Auxiliary Input tracks, 64 Mas­ter Fader tracks, 256 MIDI tracks, and 32 In­strument tracks per session.
• 16-bit or 24-bit audio resolution, at sample rates up to 96 kHz.
• Non-destructive, random-access editing and mix automation.
• Audio processing with up to 10 inserts per track (RTAS
• Up to 10 sends per track.
• Up to 32 internal mix busses.
®
plug-ins or hardware inserts)

System Requirements and Compatibility

Mbox can be used with a qualified Windows or Mac computer running Pro Tools LE software.
A DVD drive is required to use the Pro Tools In­staller disc.
Avid can only assure compatibility and provide support for hardware and software it has tested and approved.
For complete system requirements and a list of qualified computers, operating systems, hard drives, and third-party devices, visit:
www.avid.com/compatibility
MIDI Requirements
Mbox includes one MIDI In port and one MIDI Out port, providing 16 channels of MIDI input and 16 channels of MIDI output.
Pro Tools LE uses your computer’s CPU to mix and process audio tracks (host process­ing). Computers with faster clock speeds yield higher track counts and more plug-in processing.
Mbox User Guide2
If you require additional MIDI ports, add a MIDI interface to your system.
USB MIDI interfaces work effectively with Pro Tools systems on Windows or Mac. Serial MIDI interfaces are supported on Windows sys­tems only.
Only USB MIDI interfaces are compatible with Pro Tools systems for Mac OS X. Modem-to-serial port adapters and serial MIDI devices are not supported.
For a list of supported MIDI interfaces and
controllers, visit www.avid.com.
Hard Drive Requirements
For optimal audio recording and playback, all Pro Tools systems require one or more qualified drives.
If you are using an ATA/IDE or FireWire hard drive, initialize your drive with the Disk Utility application included with Apple System soft­ware (Mac) or the Windows Disk Management (Windows).
For more information, see Appendix E, “Hard Drive Configuration and Maintenance.”
Avoid Recording to the System Drive
Recording to your system drive is not recom­mended. Recording and playback on a system drive may result in lower track counts and fewer plug-ins.

Conventions Used in This Guide

All of our guides use the following conventions to indicate menu choices and key commands:
:
Convention Action
File > Save Choose Save from the
File menu
Control+N Hold down the Control key
Control-click Hold down the Control key
Right-click Click with the right
The names of Commands, Options, and Settings that appear on-screen are in a different font.
The following symbols are used to highlight important information:
User Tips are helpful hints for getting the most from your system.
and press the N key
and click the mouse button
mouse button
Important Notices include information that could affect your data or the performance of your system.
Shortcuts show you useful keyboard or mouse shortcuts.
Cross References point to related sections in this guide and other Pro Tools guides.
Chapter 1: Welcome to Mbox 3

About www.avid.com

The Avid website (www.avid.com) is your best online source for information to help you get the most out of your Pro Tools system. The fol­lowing are just a few of the services and features available.
Product Registration Register your purchase online.
Support and Downloads Contact Avid Customer Success (technical support); download software updates and the latest online manuals; browse the Compatibility documents for system re­quirements; search the online Knowledge Base or join the worldwide Pro Tools community on the User Conference.
Training and Education Study on your own using courses available online or find out how you can learn in a classroom setting at a certified Pro Tools training center.
Products and Developers Learn about Avid products; download demo software or learn about our Development Partners and their plug-ins, applications, and hardware.
News and Events Get the latest news from Avid or sign up for a Pro Tools demo.
Mbox User Guide4
chapter 2

Installing Pro Tools on Mac

This chapter contains information for Mac sys­tems only. If you are installing Pro Tools on a Windows computer, see Chapter 3, “Installing Pro Tools on Windows.”
Before installing this version of Pro Tools, refer to the Read Me information included on the Pro Tools Installer disc.

Installing Pro Tools LE and Connecting Your Interface

Before connecting your Pro Tools LE interface to the computer, you need to install Pro Tools LE software.
Do not start this procedure with your Mbox connected to your computer.

Installation Overview

Installation of the Mbox on a Mac includes the following steps:
1 “Installing Pro Tools LE and Connecting Your
Interface” on page 5.
2 “Launching Pro Tools LE” on page 7.
3 Configuring your system for improved perfor-
mance (see Chapter 4, “Configuring Your Pro Tools System”).
4 Making audio connections to the Mbox (see
Chapter 6, “Making Hardware Connections”).
The Pro Tools Installer disc includes addi­tional software for your system. For more in­formation, see “Additional Software on the Pro Tools Installer Disc” on page 8.
To install Pro Tools LE on Mac OS X:
1 Make sure you are logged in as an Administra-
tor for the account where you want to install Pro Tools.
When the installation is complete, you will need to restart your computer.
For details on Administrator privileges in Mac OS X, see your Apple OS X documen­tation.
2 Insert the Pro Tools LE Installer disc in your
DVD drive.
Chapter 2: Installing Pro Tools on Mac 5
3 On the Installer disc, locate and double-click
Install Pro Tools LE.mpkg.
Install Pro Tools LE.mpkg icon
4 Follow the on-screen instructions to proceed
with installation.
5 Click Continue each time you are prompted.
6 At the Installation Type page, do one of the
following:
• To install all Pro Tools application files and free plug-in suites (and associated content), leave the default Installation options se­lected and click Continue.
– or –
• Select (or deselect) a custom configuration of Installation options (see “Installation Options” on page 6) and click Continue.
7 Click Install.
8 If prompted, enter your Administrator pass-
word and click OK to authenticate the installa­tion.
9 Follow the remaining on-screen instructions.
10 When installation is complete, click Restart.
11 After the computer has started, connect the
small end of the included USB cable to the USB port on Mbox and connect the other end to any available USB port on your computer.
If the USB LED on the front panel of the Mbox does not illuminate, try unplugging the USB cable from the Mbox USB port, and plugging it back in. If the USB LED still does not illuminate, shut down the computer, disconnect Mbox and start the computer. Once the computer has fully restarted, reconnect Mbox.
Mbox may not function properly if con­nected to a USB hub. If you need to use a hub for other USB peripherals, connect the hub to a separate USB port; Mbox must be connected to a dedicated port on the com­puter in order to function properly.
Installation Options
Pro Tools LE Options
To install a subset of Pro Tools software and plug-ins (and associated content), click the re­veal triangle for the Pro Tools LE 8.0.4 option in the installer, and deselect any of the following options that you do not want installed. (If an item is checked, it will be installed.)
Application Files (Required for Pro Tools) Installs the Pro Tools application and supporting library files needed to run Pro Tools. This option must be selected to install Pro Tools.
DigiRack Plug-Ins Installs free plug-ins including DigiRack plug-ins, free Bomb Factory plug-ins, Eleven Free, TL Utilities, and Digidesign D-Fi and Maxim plug-ins. For more information, see the Audio Plug-Ins Guide.
Mbox User Guide6
Pro Tools Creative Collection Options
Select any of the Pro Tools Creative Collection options you want installed. For more informa­tion, see the Audio Plug-Ins Guide.
Effect Plug-Ins Installs 6 free virtual instrument plug-ins from Avid’s AIR group.
Virtual Instruments Installs 20 free effects plug­ins from Avid’s AIR group.
Virtual Instrument Content Installs sample con­tent for AIR virtual instruments.
Virtual Instrument Content is very large and may take up to 20 minutes to install. During this time, the progress bar may not appear to move but your software is still in­stalling. Do not terminate your installation.
Additional Options
The Pro Tools installer provides the following additional options to install along with Pro Tools software and plug-ins.
Avid CoreAudio Drivers This option installs a multichannel sound driver that allows CoreAu­dio-compatible applications to record and play back through Avid audio interfaces.

Launching Pro Tools LE

When launching Pro Tools LE the first time, you are prompted to enter an authorization code to validate your software. (The code begins with the letters DIGI.)
To authorize Pro Tools LE software:
1 Make sure Mbox is connected to your com-
puter.
2 Click the Pro Tools LE icon in the Dock (or
double-click the application icon in the Pro Tools folder inside the Digidesign folder).
3 Enter the authorization code in the dialog
(making sure to type it exactly as printed, and observing any spaces and capitalization), then click Validate. (Your authorization code is lo­cated on the inside front cover of this guide.)
4 Use the Quick Start dialog to do one of
the following:
• Create a new session from template.
• Create a new blank session.
• Open any other session on your system.
Avid Video Engine This option lets you integrate
®
Avid
video peripherals (such as the Avid Mojo® with your Pro Tools system). Do not install un­less you will be using one of these products.
MIDI I/O Driver The MIDI I/O
™
Driver is re­quired if you are using the Avid MIDI I/O inter­face. Do not install unless you will be using a MIDI I/O.
Quick Start dialog
For more information on the Quick Start dialog and session templates, see the Pro Tools Reference Guide (Help > Pro Tools Reference Guide).
Chapter 2: Installing Pro Tools on Mac 7

Additional Software on the Pro Tools Installer Disc

The Pro Tools LE Installer disc provides addi­tional software for your system, including audio drivers (for playing other audio applications through your Pro Tools hardware) and a Pro Tools demo session.
Avid CoreAudio Driver
The Avid CoreAudio Driver is a multi-client, multichannel sound driver that lets Core Au­dio–compatible applications record and play back through Pro Tools hardware.
The Avid CoreAudio Driver is installed by de­fault when you install Pro Tools.
Check your Pro Tools Installer disc for addi­tional software and installers.
Third-Party Applications and Plug-Ins
Your Pro Tools package also includes free appli­cations and plug-ins from Avid and selected Avid Third Party developers (content subject to change). Once you've completed your Pro Tools installation, you can install these separately.
Installers are located on your Pro Tools LE In­staller disc in the Additional Files\3rd Party Content folder.
For information on configuring the Avid CoreAudioDriver, see the CoreAudio Drivers Guide.
Standalone CoreAudio Driver
The Avid CoreAudio Driver can be installed as a standalone driver on Mac systems that do not have Pro Tools software installed.
For information on installing and configuring the standalone version of the Avid CoreAudio Driver, see the CoreAudio Drivers Guide.
If you uninstall Pro Tools, the Avid CoreAudio Driver is automatically uninstalled at that time.
Mbox User Guide8
Pro Tools Demo Session
The Pro Tools LE Installer disc includes a demo session that you can use to verify that your sys­tem is working.

Uninstalling Pro Tools

If you need to uninstall Pro Tools software from your computer, use the Uninstaller application.
The demo session for Pro Tool LE is named “Fil­tered Dream.”
Before installing the demo session to your audio drive, make sure the drive is config­ured as described in “Formatting an Audio Drive” on page 68.
To install the demo session:
1 Insert the Pro Tools LE Installer disc into your
DVD drive.
2 On the Pro Tools LE Installer disc, locate and
open the Additional Files/Pro Tools Demo Ses­sions Installer folder.
3 Double-click Install demo session.pkg.
4 Follow the on-screen instructions.
5 When prompted, select your audio drive as
the install location and click Next to begin the installation. When installation is complete, click Close.
The demo session can be opened by double­clicking the Filtered Dream.ptf file (located in the Filtered Dream Demo Session folder).
To remove Pro Tools from your computer:
1 Make sure you are logged in as an Administra-
tor for the account where Pro Tools is installed.
For details on Administrator privileges in Mac OS X, see your Apple OS X documen­tation.
2 Go to Applications/Digidesign/Pro Tools/
Pro Tools Utilities and double-click
Uninstall Pro Tools
3 Click Continue to proceed with the uninstall.
4 Choose the type of uninstall you want to per-
form:
Safe Uninstall Leaves certain plug-ins and sys­tem files needed for compatibility with some Avid products. Use Safe Uninstall if you are us­ing an Avid application or preparing to update to a CS (customer support) release.
Clean Uninstall Removes all Pro Tools files, in­cluding system files, Avid plug-ins, and MIDI patch names. Use Clean Uninstall whenever you are preparing to upgrade, or to troubleshoot from a clean system.
5 Click Uninstall.
6 Enter your Administrator password and click
OK.
7 Click Finish to close the Installer window.
Chapter 2: Installing Pro Tools on Mac 9
Mbox User Guide10
chapter 3

Installing Pro Tools on Windows

This chapter contains information for Windows systems only. If you are installing Pro Tools on a Mac computer, see Chapter 2, “Installing Pro Tools on Mac.”
Before installing this version of Pro Tools, refer to the Read Me information included on the Pro Tools LE Installer disc.

Installing Pro Tools LE and Connecting Your Interface

Before connecting your Pro Tools LE interface to the computer, you need to install Pro Tools LE software.
Do not start this procedure with your Mbox connected to your computer.

Installation Overview

Installing the Mbox on a Windows computer in­cludes the following steps:
1 “Installing Pro Tools LE and Connecting Your
Interface” on page 11.
2 “Launching Pro Tools LE” on page 14
3 Configuring your system for improved perfor-
mance (see Chapter 4, “Configuring Your Pro Tools System”).
4 Making audio and MIDI connections to the
Mbox (see Chapter 6, “Making Hardware Con­nections” for details).
The Pro Tools Installer disc includes addi­tional software for your system. For more in­formation, see “Additional Software on the Pro Tools Installer Disc” on page 14.
To install Pro Tools LE:
1 Start Windows, logging in with Administrator
privileges. For details on Administrator privi­leges, refer to your Windows documentation.
When the installation is complete, you will need to restart your computer.
2 Insert the Pro Tools LE Installer disc in your
DVD drive and do on of the following:
• If Windows AutoRun is enabled, a mini-browser appears. Select Install Pro Tools LE to begin your installation.
– or –
• If Windows AutoRun is disabled, locate and double-click Setup.exe. on the Installer disc.
Setup.exe icon
Chapter 3: Installing Pro Tools on Windows 11
In Windows 7 and Windows Vista, if the User Account Control dialog appears, click Allow.
3 Follow the on-screen instructions to proceed
with installation and click Next when prompted.
4 To install the complete compliment of
Pro Tools software and plug-ins, leave Pro Tools selected.
5 At the Select Features page, do one of the fol-
lowing:
• To install all Pro Tools application files and free plug-in suites (and associated content), leave the default Installation options se­lected and click Continue.
– or –
• Select (or deselect) a custom configuration of Installation options (see “Installation Options” on page 13) and click Continue.
6 Click Next.
7 Click Install.
8 When prompted, connect the small end of the
included USB cable to the USB port on Mbox.Connect the other end of the USB cable to any available USB port on your computer.
In Windows XP, a series of Software Instal­lation dialogs about the driver not passing Windows Logo testing may appear. Click Continue Anyway on each one until they go away.
If any other dialogs appear (such as the “Found New Hardware” dialog), leave them open and do not click on them. These dialogs will close on their own.
10 Wait for the installer to finish installing all
software components, drivers, and PACE System files before proceeding to the next step.
11 When installation is complete, click Finish
and restart your computer.
If the USB LED on the front panel of the Mbox does not illuminate after restarting the computer, try unplugging the USB cable from the Mbox USB port, and plugging it back in. If the USB LED still does not illu­minate, shut down the computer, discon­nect Mbox and start the computer. Once the computer has fully restarted, reconnect Mbox.
Mbox may not function properly if con­nected to a USB hub. If you need to use a hub for other USB peripherals, connect the hub to a separate USB port; Mbox must be con­nected to a dedicated port on the computer in order to function properly
9 Click OK.
In Windows 7a nd Windows Vista, a series of Windows Security dialogs may appear. Click “Install” on each one until they go away.
Mbox User Guide12
Installation Options
Additional Options
Pro Tools LE Options
To install a subset of Pro Tools software and plug-ins (and associated content), click the re­veal triangle for the Pro Tools LE 8.0.4 option in the installer, and deselect any of the following options that you do not want installed. (If an item is checked, it will be installed.)
Application Files (Required for Pro Tools) Installs the Pro Tools application and supporting library files needed to run Pro Tools. This option must be selected to install Pro Tools.
DigiRack Plug-Ins Installs free plug-ins including DigiRack plug-ins, free Bomb Factory plug-ins, Eleven Free, TL Utilities, and Digidesign D-Fi and Maxim plug-ins. For more information, see the Audio Plug-Ins Guide.
Pro Tools Creative Collection Options
Select any of the Pro Tools Creative Collection options you want installed. For more informa­tion, see the Audio Plug-Ins Guide.
The Pro Tools installer provides the following additional options to install along with Pro Tools software and plug-ins.
Mac HFS+ Disk Support Option This option lets your Pro Tools system read, write, record, and play back using Mac-formatted HFS+ disks. HFS+ disks are commonly referred to as Mac OS Ex­tended disks.
For information on using the Mac HFS+ Disk Support option, see the HFS+ Disk Support Option Guide.
Avid Video Engine This option lets you integrate
®
Avid
video peripherals (such as the Avid Mojo® with your Pro Tools system). Do not install un­less you will be using one of these products.
Command|8 Controller and Driver This option in­stalls the personality file and device driver for the Avid Command|8 Control Surface. Do not install unless you will be using Command|8.
Installing QuickTime
Effect Plug-Ins Installs 6 free virtual instrument plug-ins from Avid’s AIR group.
Virtual Instruments Installs 20 free effects plug­ins from Avid’s AIR group.
Virtual Instrument Content Installs sample con­tent for AIR virtual instruments.
Virtual Instrument Content is very large and may take up to 20 minutes to install. During this time, the progress bar may not appear to move but your software is still in­stalling. Do not terminate your installation.
QuickTime is required for Pro Tools if you plan to include movie files, or import MP3 or MP4 (AAC) files in your sessions. QuickTime for Win­dows is available as a free download from the Apple website (www.apple.com).
For information on which version of QuickTime is compatible with your version of Pro Tools, visit www.avid.com/compatibility).
Chapter 3: Installing Pro Tools on Windows 13
To install QuickTime:
1 Visit www.apple.com and go to the Quick-
Time page.
2 Download the QuickTime installer applica-
tion to your computer.
3 Double-click the QuickTime installer applica-
tion and follow the on-screen installation in­structions.
4 Restart your computer.
Quick Start dialog

Launching Pro Tools LE

When launching Pro Tools LE the first time, you are prompted to enter an authorization code to validate your software. (The code begins with the letters DIGI.).
To authorize Pro Tools LE software:
1 Make sure Mbox is connected to your com-
puter.
2 Double-click the Pro Tools LE shortcut on
your desktop (or the application icon in the Pro Tools folder inside the Digidesign folder).
3 Enter the authorization code in the dialog
(making sure to type it exactly as printed, and observing any spaces and capitalization), then click Validate. (Your authorization code is lo­cated on the back of your Pro Tools DVD wallet.
4 Use the Quick Start dialog to do one of
the following:
• Create a new session from template.
• Create a new blank session.
• Open any other session on your system.
For more information on the Quick Start dialog and session templates, see the Pro Tools Reference Guide (Help > Pro Tools Reference Guide).

Additional Software on the Pro Tools Installer Disc

The Pro Tools LE Installer disc provides addi­tional software for your system, including audio drivers (for playing other audio applications through your Pro Tools hardware) and a Pro Tools demo session.
Check your Pro Tools Installer disc for additional software and installers.
Third-Party Applications and Plug-Ins
Your Pro Tools package also includes free appli­cations and plug-ins from Avid and selected Avid Third Party developers (content subject to change). Once you've completed your Pro Tools installation, you can install these separately.
Installers are located on your Pro Tools LE In­staller disc in the Additional Files\3rd Party Content folder.
Mbox User Guide14
Avid Audio Drivers
The Avid Audio Drivers are multi-client, multi­channel sound drivers that allow Pro Tools and third-party audio programs that support the ASIO Driver or WaveDriver MME/DirectX (Multimedia Extension) standards to record and play back through qualified Pro Tools audio in­terfaces.
For information on configuring settings for your audio interface for use with Pro Tools or other audio applications, see Appendix A, “Using the Driver Control Panel.”
For additional information on the Avid Audio Drivers, see the Windows Audio Drivers Guide.
3 Double-click LE Demo Session Setup.exe.
4 Follow the on-screen instructions.
5 When prompted, select your audio drive as
the install location and click Next to begin the install.
6 When installation is complete, click Finish.
The demo session can be opened by double­clicking the Filtered Dream.ptf file (located in the Filtered Dream Demo Session folder).

Uninstalling Pro Tools

Use the Uninstall Pro Tools application to unin­stall Pro Tools software from your computer.
Pro Tools Demo Session
The Pro Tools LE Installer disc includes a demo session that you can use to verify that your sys­tem is working.
The demo session for Pro Tool LE is named “Filtered Dream.”
Before installing the demo session to your audio drive, make sure the drive is config­ured as described in “Formatting an Audio Drive” on page 68.
To install the demo session:
1 Insert the Pro Tools LE Installer disc into your
DVD drive.
2 On the Pro Tools LE Installer disc, locate and
open the Additional Files\Pro Tools Demo Ses­sions Installer folder.
To uninstall Pro Tools from your computer:
1 Start Windows, logging in with Administrator
privileges. For details on Administrator privi­leges, refer to your Windows documentation.
2 Go to C:\Program Files\Digidesign\
Pro Tools\Pro Tools Utilities and double-click Uninstall Pro Tools.exe.
3 Click Next.
4 Click Uninstall to proceed with the uninstalla-
tion.
Chapter 3: Installing Pro Tools on Windows 15
Mbox User Guide16
chapter 4

Configuring Your Pro Tools System

After you have connected your system and in­stalled Pro Tools software, you are ready to start up and configure your Pro Tools system.

Starting Up or Shutting Down Your System

To ensure that the components of your Pro Tools system communicate properly with each other, you need to start them in a particu­lar order.
Start up your Pro Tools system in this order:
1 Make sure all your equipment (including your
computer) is off.
2 Lower the volume of all output devices in your
system (especially the main outputs to your speakers!).
3 Turn on any external hard drives. Wait ap-
proximately ten seconds for them to spin up to speed.
4 Turn on any control surfaces (such as Com-
mand|8).
5 Turn on any MIDI interfaces, MIDI devices, or
synchronization peripherals.
6 With the volume of all output devices low-
ered, turn on your Pro Tools audio interfaces. Wait at least fifteen seconds for the audio inter­face to initialize and the status LEDs to stop­flashing.
7 Turn on your computer.
8 Launch Pro Tools or any third-party audio or
MIDI applications.
9 Bring the output levels up to a comfortable lis-
tening level.
Shut down your Pro Tools system in this order:
1 Quit Pro Tools and any other running applica-
tions.
To quit Pro Tools, choose Pro Tools > Quit (Mac) or File > Exit (Windows).
2 Turn off or lower the volume of all output de-
vices in your system.
3 Turn off your computer.
4 Turn off any MIDI interfaces, MIDI devices, or
synchronization peripherals.
5 Turn off any control surfaces.
6 Turn off any external hard drives.
Chapter 4: Configuring Your Pro Tools System 17

Configuring Pro Tools LE

To change the Hardware Buffer Size:
1 Launch Pro Tools
Pro Tools System Settings
In the Playback Engine dialog, Pro Tools LE lets you adjust the performance of your system by changing system settings that affect its capacity for processing, playback, and recording.
In most cases, the default settings for your sys­tem provide optimum performance, but you may want to adjust them to accommodate large or processing-intensive Pro Tools sessions.
Hardware Buffer Size
The Hardware Buffer Size (H/W Buffer Size) con­trols the size of the buffer used to handle host processing tasks such as Real-Time AudioSuite™
®
(RTAS
) plug-ins.
• Lower Hardware Buffer Size settings are useful for improving latency issues in certain record­ing situations or for improving certain system performance problems. On Pro Tools LE sys­tems, lower settings reduce all input-to-out­put monitoring latency on any record-armed tracks or Auxiliary Input tracks with live in­puts.
• Higher Hardware Buffer Size settings are use­ful for sessions that are using more RTAS plug­ins for playback. These settings allow for more audio processing. They can also be useful to reduce errors on some machines that require a higher buffer size.
2 Choose Setup > Playback Engine.
3 From the H/W Buffer Size pop-up menu, select
the audio buffer size, in samples.
Playback Engine dialog for Pro Tools LE, with Structure Free plug-in installed. (Mbox 2 shown)
4 Click OK.
In addition to causing slower screen re­sponse and monitoring latency, higher Hardware Buffer Size settings can increase the latency caused by RTAS plug-ins, and affect the accuracy of plug-in automation, mute data, and MIDI track timing.
Mbox User Guide18
Host Processors
The Host Processors setting lets you manage multi-processor support for RTAS (Real-Time AudioSuite) plug-in processing.
Used in combination with the CPU Usage Limit setting, the Host Processors setting lets you con­trol the way RTAS and other host-based process­ing tasks are carried out by the system.
For example:
• For sessions with large numbers of RTAS plug­ins, you can allocate 2 or more processors to RTAS processing and set a high CPU Usage Limit.
• For sessions with few RTAS plug-ins, you can allocate fewer Host Processors to RTAS and set a low CPU Usage Limit settings to leave more host processing resources available for automation accuracy, screen response, and video.
• Depending on the importance of video and overall screen response, and on the density of automation being employed, try different combinations of Host Processors and CPU Us- age Limit settings to achieve the best results. For example, to improve screen response in a medium-sized session using a moderate num­ber of RTAS plug-ins, try reducing the number of RTAS plug-ins, but keep the CPU Usage Limit set to the maximum (up to 99% on a single processor system).
To set the number of RTAS Processors:
1 Choose Setup > Playback Engine.
2 From the Host Processing pop-up menu, select
the number of available processors you want to allocate. The number of processors available var­ies depending on your computer:
• Select 1Processor to limit processing to one CPU in the system.
• Choose 2 Processors to enable load balanc­ing across two available processors.
• On systems running four or more proces­sors, choose the number of processors for processing.
3 Click OK.
System Usage Window and Processing
The System Usage window (Windows > System Usage) displays the combined amount of pro-
cessing occurring on all enabled processors with a single indicator, regardless of how many pro­cessors are available in the system. If the System Usage Window shows that you are at the limit of available resources, increase the number of pro­cessors and adjust the CPU Usage Limit setting.
Chapter 4: Configuring Your Pro Tools System 19
CPU Usage Limit
Host Engine (Error Suppression)
The CPU Usage Limit setting controls the per­centage of CPU resources allocated to Pro Tools host processing tasks. Used in combination with the Host Processors setting, the CPU Usage Limit setting lets you control the way Pro Tools tasks are carried out by the system.
•Lower CPU Usage Limit settings limit the effect of Pro Tools processing on other CPU-inten­sive tasks, such as screen redraws, and are use­ful when you are experiencing slow system response, or when running other applications at the same time as Pro Tools.
•Higher CPU Usage Limit settings allocate more processing power to Pro Tools, and are useful for playing back large sessions or using more RTAS plug-ins.
The maximum available CPU Usage Limit de­pends on the number of processors in your com­puter and on the number of processors you spec­ify for RTAS processing. This value can range from 85% for single-processor computers, and 99% for multiprocessor computers (which dedi­cate one entire processor to Pro Tools).
The Host Engine option determines RTAS error reporting during playback and recording. This is especially useful when working with instrument plug-ins.
You should only enable error suppression if you are experiencing frequent RTAS errors that are interrupting your creative workflow. When er­ror suppression is enabled, you can experience a degradation of audio quality. However, this may be acceptable in order to avoid interrupting playback and recording when working with in­strument plug-ins. Be sure to disable error sup­pression when you need to ensure the highest possible audio quality, such as for a final mix.
To enable error suppression:
1 Choose Setup > Playback Engine.
2 Select Host Engine: Ignore Errors During Play-
back/Record.
3 On Mac, you can also select Minimize Additional
I/O Latency.
4 Click OK.
On multiprocessor computers, the maximum CPU Usage Limit is reduced when you use all your processors (as selected in the Processing pop-up menu). For example, on dual-processors, the limit is 90%. On four-processor computers, the limit is 95%.
Increasing the CPU Usage Limit may slow down screen responses on slower computers.
To change the CPU Usage Limit:
1 Choose Setup > Playback Engine.
2 From the CPU Usage Limit pop-up menu, select
the percentage of CPU processing you want to allocate to Pro Tools.
3 Click OK.
Mbox User Guide20
Error Suppression Options
Ignore Errors During Playback/Record When the
Ignore Errors During Playback/Record option is en­abled, Pro Tools continues to play and record even if the host processing requirements exceed the selected CPU Usage Limit. This can result in pops and clicks in the audio, but does not stop the transport.
Minimize Additional I/O Latency (Mac Only)
When enabled, any additional latency due to suppressing errors during playback and record is minimized to 128 samples. Suppressing RTAS er­rors requires at least 128 samples of additional buffering on some systems. If this option is dis­abled, the buffer is half the H/W Buffer Size, or at least 128 samples (whichever is greater). If you are on an older, slower computer, you may want to disable this option to avoid adverse perfor­mance.
This option is only available on Mac if the Ignore Errors During Playback/Record option is enabled.
DAE Playback Buffer Size
The DAE Playback Buffer Size setting determines the amount of memory DAE allocates for disk buffers. In addition to levels, the DAE Playback Buffer Size shows values in milliseconds, which indicate the amount of audio buffered when the system reads from disk.
The optimum DAE Playback Buffer Size for most disk operations is 1500 msec; Level 2 (Default).
• DAE Playback Buffer Size settings lower than 1500 msec; Level 2 (Default) may improve playback and recording initiation speed, as well as preview in context in DigiBase brows­ers. However, a lower setting may make it dif­ficult to play or record tracks reliably with sessions containing a large number of tracks or a high density of edits, or with systems that have slower or heavily-fragmented hard drives.
• DAE Playback Buffer Size settings higher than 1500 msec; Level 2 (Default) allow higher track count, higher density of edits in a session, or the use of slower hard drives. However, a higher setting may increase the time lag when starting playback or recording, starting pre­view in context from DigiBase browsers, or cause a longer audible time lag while editing during playback.
Using a larger DAE Playback Buffer Size leaves less system memory for other tasks. The default setting of 1500 msec (Level 2) is recommended unless you are encountering –9073 (“Disk too slow or fragmented”) errors.
To change the DAE Playback Buffer Size:
1 Choose Setup > Playback Engine.
2 From the DAE Playback Buffer pop-up menu, se-
lect a buffer size. Memory requirements for each setting are shown at the bottom of the Playback Engine dialog.
3 Click OK.
If Pro Tools needs more system memory for the DAE Playback Buffer, it will prompt you to re­start your computer.
Chapter 4: Configuring Your Pro Tools System 21
Cache Size
The Cache Size setting determines the amount of memory DAE allocates to pre-buffer audio for playback and looping when using Elastic Audio.
Minimum Reduces the amount of system mem­ory used for disk operations and frees up mem­ory for other system tasks. However, perfor­mance when using Elastic Audio features may decrease.
Normal Is the optimum Cache Size for most ses­sions.
Plug-In Streaming Buffer Size
(Structure Plug-In Only)
This setting appears in the Playback Engine dia­log only if Structure, Structure LE, or Structure Free is installed on your system. The Plug-In Streaming Buffer Size determines the amount of memory DAE allocates for streaming playback from disk with the Structure plug-in. This setting only affects playback if disk stream­ing is activated in Structure’s plug-in controls (see the AIR Virtual Instruments Guide for more information).
Large Improves performance when using Elastic Audio features, but it also decreases the amount of memory available for other system tasks, such as RTAS processing.
Using a larger Cache Size leaves less system memory for other tasks. The default setting of Normal is recommended unless you are encountering -9500 (“Cache too small”) errors.
To change the Cache Size:
1 Choose Setup > Playback Engine.
2 From the Cache Size pop-up menu, select a
disk cache size.
3 Click OK.
The optimum Plug-In Streaming Buffer Size for most sessions is 250 ms (Level 2).
• Plug-In Streaming Buffer Size settings lower than 250 ms (Level 2) reduce the amount of system memory used for sample playback and frees up memory for other system tasks. How­ever, audio quality of sample playback may decrease.
• Plug-In Streaming Buffer Size settings higher than 250 ms (Level 2) improve the audio qual­ity of sample playback, but they also decrease the amount of memory available for other sys­tem tasks, such as RTAS processing.
Using a larger Plug-In Streaming Buffer Size leaves less system memory for other tasks. The default setting of 250 ms (Level 2) is recommended unless you are experiencing problems with the audio quality of sample playback.
To change the Plug-In Streaming Buffer Size:
1 Choose Setup > Playback Engine.
2 From the Plug-In Streaming Buffer Size pop-up
menu, select a buffer size.
3 Click OK.
Mbox User Guide22
Optimizing the Plug-In Streaming Buffer Size
(Structure Plug-In Only)
This option appears in the Playback Engine dia­log only if one of the Structure sampler instru­ment plug-in is installed on your system. This option is useful when you are playing samples from the same drive that contains audio for the current session. When this option is selected, Pro Tools automatically optimizes the size of the Plug-In Streaming Buffer to facilitate disk access from both Pro Tools and Structure. The Plug-In Streaming Buffer Size pop-up menu is unavail­able when this option is selected.
To set Pro Tools to optimize the Plug-In Streaming Buffer Size:
1 Choose Setup > Playback Engine.
2 Select the Optimize for Streaming Content op-
tion.
3 Click OK.
Default Sample Rate
The Sample Rate setting appears as the default sample rate when you create a new session. (This setting is available in the Hardware Setup dialog only when no session is open.)
You can change the sample rate when creat­ing a new Pro Tools session by selecting a different sample rate in the New Session dialog. (Refer to
Guide for details.)
To change the default Sample Rate:
1 Choose Setup > Hardware.
the Pro Tools Reference

Configuring the Pro Tools Hardware Settings

In the Hardware Setup dialog, Pro Tools lets you set the default sample rate and clock source for your system, as well as a range of controls spe­cific to each type of audio interface.
Hardware Setup dialog
2 Select the sample rate from the Sample Rate
pop-up menu.
3 Click OK.
Chapter 4: Configuring Your Pro Tools System 23
Clock Source
The Pro Tools Hardware Setup dialog lets you se­lect the Clock Source for the system.
Internal If you are recording an analog signal di­rectly into Pro Tools, you will usually use the Pro Tools Internal clock source.
S/PDIF Use this setting if you are recording through the Mbox S/PDIF input from an exter­nal digital device. This setting will synchronize Pro Tools to that digital device.
To select the Clock Source:
1 Choose Setup > Hardware.
2 Choose the clock source from the Clock Source
pop-up menu.
3 Click OK.
Your digital input device must be connected and powered on for Pro Tools to synchro­nize to it. If your input device is not powered on, leave the Clock Source set to Internal.
Configuring I/O Setup
Using the I/O Setup dialog, you can label Pro Tools LE input, output, insert, and bus signal paths. The I/O Setup dialog provides a graphical representation of the inputs, outputs, and signal routing of the Mbox.
Pro Tools LE has default I/O Setup settings that will get you started. Use the I/O Setup dialog only if you want to rename the default I/O paths.
To rename I/O paths in I/O Setup:
1 Choose Setup > I/O.
I/O Setup dialog for Mbox
2 Click the Input, Output, Insert, or Bus tab to dis-
play the corresponding connections.
3 To change the name of a path or subpath, dou-
ble-click directly on the Path Name, type a new name for the path, and press Enter.
4 Click OK.
See the Pro Tools Reference Guide (Help > Pro Tools Reference Guide) for more infor­mation on renaming I/O paths.
Configuring MIDI Setup
If you plan to use any MIDI devices with Pro Tools, do one of the following:
On Mac, configure your MIDI setup with Au-
dio MIDI Setup. See Appendix C, “Configuring AMS (Mac OS X Only)” for details.
– or –
On Windows, configure your MIDI setup with
MIDI Studio Setup. See Appendix D, “Configur­ing MIDI Studio Setup (Windows Only)” for de­tails.
Mbox User Guide24
Backing Up your System Configuration
After configuring your system and Pro Tools, you should save an image of your system drive using a backup utility such as Bombich Carbon Copy Cloner or Time Machine (Mac) or Acronis True Image or Norton Ghost (Windows). By do­ing this, you can quickly restore your system configuration and settings if you encounter any problems.
Turning Off Energy Saver
To turn off the Energy Saver feature:
1 Choose System Preferences from the Apple
menu and click Energy Saver.
2 Do the following:
• Set the computer sleep setting to Never.
• Set the display sleep setting to Never.
• Deselect “Put the hard disk(s) to sleep when possible.”

Optimizing a Mac System for Pro Tools

To ensure optimum performance with Pro Tools, configure your computer before using Pro Tools hardware and software.
Before configuring your computer, make sure you are logged in as an Administrator for the ac­count where you want to install Pro Tools. For details on Administrator privileges in Mac OS X, see your Apple OS X documentation.
Do not use the Mac OS X automatic Software Update feature, as it may upgrade your system to a version of Mac OS that has not yet been qualified for Pro Tools. For details on qualified versions of Mac OS, visit www.avid.com/compatibility.
Turning Off Software Update
To turn off the Software Update feature:
1 Choose System Preferences from the Apple
menu and click Software Update.
2 Click the Scheduled Check tab.
3 Deselect “Check for Updates.”
Disable or Reassign Mac Keyboard Shortcuts Used by Pro Tools
To have the full complement of Pro Tools key­board shortcuts, you need to disable or reassign any conflicting Mac OS X Keyboard Shortcuts in the Apple System Preferences, including the fol­lowing:
• “Show Help menu”
• Under “Keyboard Navigation”
• “Move focus to the window drawer”
• Under “Dock, Exposé, and Dashboard”
• “Automatically hide and show the Dock”
•“All windows”
• “Application windows”
•“Desktop”
• “Dashboard”
• “Spaces”
• Under “Spotlight”
• “Show Spotlight search field”
• “Show Spotlight window”
For a complete list of Pro Tools keyboard shortcuts, see the Keyboard Shortcuts Guide (Help > Keyboard Shortcuts).
Chapter 4: Configuring Your Pro Tools System 25
To disable or reassign Mac OS X keyboard shortcuts:
1 Choose System Preferences from the Apple
menu and click Keyboard.
6 Press and hold Command+Option+Con-
trol+Shift and select “Control+Option+Shift+Com­mand+Number Keys” from the “To switch directly to a space” pop-up menu.
2 Click the Keyboard Shortcuts tab.
3 Do one of the following:
• Deselect the Mac OS X options that conflict with Pro Tools keyboard shortcuts.
– or –
• Assign different, non-conflicting keyboard shortcuts to the corresponding Mac OS X options.
Reassign Spaces Keyboard Shortcuts
If you want to use Spaces, you should reassign the Spaces keyboard shortcuts to avoid conflicts with important Pro Tools keyboard shortcuts. You can reassign Spaces keyboard shortcuts to use a combination of modifier keys (Com­mand+Option+Control+Shift) in addition to the default Spaces keyboard shortcut assign­ments to avoid these conflicts.
To reassign Spaces keyboard shortcuts to use modifier key combinations that do not conflict with Pro Tools keyboard shortcuts:
1 Choose System Preferences from the Apple
menu and click Exposé & Spaces.
Disabling Spotlight Indexing
The Mac OS X Spotlight feature automatically indexes files and folders on local hard drives in the background. In most cases, this is not a con­cern for normal Pro Tools operation. However, if Spotlight starts indexing drives while record­ing in a Pro Tools session with high track counts for an extended period of time, it can adversely affect Pro Tools system performance. You may want to disable Spotlight indexing for all local drives before using Pro Tools for big recording projects.
Disabling Spotlight indexing also disables the Find function in Mac OS X.
To disable Spotlight indexing:
1 Choose System Preferences from the Apple
menu and click Spotlight.
2 In the Spotlight window, click the Privacy tab.
3 To prevent indexing of a drive, drag its icon
from the desktop into the list.
2 Click the Spaces tab.
3 Ensure that Enable Spaces is selected.
4 Press and hold Command+Option+Con-
trol+Shift and select “Control+Option+Shift+Com­mand+F8” from the “To activate Spaces” pop-up
menu.
5 Press and hold Command+Option+Con-
trol+Shift and select “Control+Option+Shift+Com­mand+Arrow Keys” from the “To switch between spaces” pop-up menu.
Mbox User Guide26
Enabling Journaling for Audio Drives
Enabling DMA
To yield higher performance from audio drives, enable journaling.
To enable journaling:
1 Launch the Disk Utility application, located in
Macintosh HD/Applications/Utilities.
2 Select the volume in the left column of the
Disk Utility window.
3 Select Enable Journaling in the toolbar.

Optimizing a Windows System for Pro Tools

To ensure optimum performance with Pro Tools LE, configure your computer before using Pro Tools hardware and software.
For Mac System Optimization, see “Opti­mizing a Mac System for Pro Tools” on page 25.
Before configuring your computer, make sure you are logged in as an Administrator for the ac­count where you want to install Pro Tools. For details on Administrator privileges, see your Windows documentation.
Enabling your computer's DMA (Direct Memory Access) frees up CPU bandwidth so your com­puter can do other Pro Tools tasks.
In most cases the DMA option will already be set correctly, as Windows detects and activates DMA mode by default.
To enable DMA for any IDE hard drives (Windows 7, Windows Vista, Windows XP):
1 Choose Start.
2 Right-click Computer (Windows 7, Windows
Vista) or My Computer (Windows XP) and choose Manage.
3 In the left pane of Computer Management un-
der System Tools, click on Device Manager.
4 In the right pane, click the triangle
(Windows 7) or the plus (+) sign (Windows Vista, Windows XP) next to IDE ATA/ATAPI Controllers.
5 Double-click on an IDE Channel.
6 Click the Advanced Settings tab.
7 Under Device Properties, check the box Enable
DMA (Windows 7, Windows Vista) or under each listed Device, set the Transfer Mode to DMA if available (Windows XP).
Required Optimizations
To ensure optimum performance with Pro Tools, configure the following settings be­fore using Pro Tools hardware and software.
When you are finished changing Windows system settings, restart your computer.
8 Click OK.
9 Repeat for each IDE Channel.
Chapter 4: Configuring Your Pro Tools System 27
Configuring Windows Power Management Settings
Pro Tools requires maximum CPU performance for optimal RTAS processing and disk streaming. For best performance, use the following recom­mended Windows Power Management settings.
To configure Windows Power Management Settings (Windows 7, Windows Vista):
1 Choose Start > Control Panel.
2 Click Hardware and Sound > Power Options.
3 In the Power Options control panel, click High
Performance.
4 Click Change plan settings.
To configure Windows Power Management Settings (Windows XP):
1 Choose Start > Control Panel.
2 Double-click Power Options.
3 Click the Power Schemes tab.
4 From the Power Schemes pop-up menu, select
Always On.
5 Verify that the following settings are set to
Never:
• Turn off hard disks
• System standby
•System hibernates
6 Click OK.
5 Click Change advanced power settings to
change additional settings.
6 Click Hard disk > Turn off hard disk after =
Never. You can make optional changes such as disabling sleep and disabling shutting down the monitor.
7 Click OK or click Save changes to save the
changes.
8 Close the window.
Disabling User Account Control
(Windows 7, Windows Vista)
Some third-party applications that interface with Pro Tools may require UAC to be disabled for proper operation.
To disable User Account Control (UAC):
1 Choose Start > Control Panel.
2 Click User Accounts and Family Safety.
3 In the User Accounts and Family Safety control
panel, click User Accounts.
4 Click Change User Account Control settings
(Windows 7) or Turn User Account Control on or off (Windows Vista).
5 Move the User Account Control slider to Never
Notify (Windows 7), or deselect the Use User Ac­count Control (UAC) to help protect your computer option (Windows Vista).
6 Click OK.
7 Restart your computer.
Mbox User Guide28
Recommended Optimizations
Disabling Network Cards
Pro Tools can also be affected by other software and hardware drivers installed on your com­puter. For best possible performance, it is recom­mended (but not required) that you do the fol­lowing:
• Avoid running any unneeded programs at the same time as Pro Tools.
• Turn off any software utilities that run in the background, such as Windows Messen­ger, calendars, and disk maintenance pro­grams.
• Turn off any non-essential USB devices while running Pro Tools.
• If your video display card supports it, en­able Bus Mastering in the manufacturer’s Control Panel. See the manufacturer’s in­structions for details.
Optional Optimizations
The following system optimizations may help Pro Tools perform better on some systems. It is recommended that you only try these optimiza­tions if necessary, as they may disable or ad­versely affect the functionality of other pro­grams on your system.
If applicable, disable any networking cards (other than a FireWire card that you might use to connect an external drive to your system).
To disable a network card (Windows 7, Windows Vista):
1 Choose Start > Computer.
2 Click System Properties.
3 In the left-hand pane under Control Panel
Home, click on Device Manager.
4 In the Device Manager window, double-click
Network adapters.
5 Right-click on the network adapter and select
Disable.
6 Repeat as necessary for additional network
adapters
7 Close the Device Manager window.
To disable a network card (Windows XP):
1 Right-click My Computer and choose Manage.
2 Under System Tools, select Device Manager.
3 In the right-hand pane, click “+” to reveal Net-
work adapters.
4 In the Device Manager window, double-click
Network adapters.
5 Right-click on the network adapter and select-
Disable.
6 Repeat as necessary for additional network-
adapters.
7 Close the Computer Management window.
Chapter 4: Configuring Your Pro Tools System 29
Adjusting Processor Scheduling
Disabling System Startup Items
To adjust Processor Scheduling performance (Windows 7, Windows Vista, Windows XP):
1 Right-click Computer (Windows 7, Windows
Vista) or My Computer (Windows XP) and choose Properties.
2 Click the Advanced system settings link in the
left pane (Windows 7, Windows Vista) or the Advanced tab (Windows XP).
3 Under the Performance section, click the Set-
tings button.
4 In the Performance Options window, click the
Advanced tab.
5 Under the Processor Scheduling section, select
the Background Services option.
6 Click OK to close the Performance Options
window.
7 Click OK to close the System Properties win-
dow.
8 Restart the computer for the changes to take
effect.
The fewer items in use by your computer, the more resources are available for Pro Tools. Some startup applications may be consuming unnec­essary CPU resources, and can be turned off.
If you disable any of the following startup items, do so carefully:
• Portable media serial number (required for some applications that utilize a copy pro­tection key)
• The Plug and Play service
•Event log
• Cryptographic services
To Disable System Startup Items: (Windows 7, Windows Vista, Windows XP):
1 From the Start menu, type “msconfig” in Start
Search (Windows 7, Windows Vista) or in Run (Windows XP) and click OK to open the System Configuration Utility.
2 Under the General tab, choose Selective
Startup.
3 Deselect Load Startup Items and click OK.
4 Click Restart to restart the computer.
5 After restarting, the computer displays a Sys-
tem Configuration message. Check to see if Pro Tools performance has increased before you deselect the Don't show this message again op­tion. If performance has not changed, run “msconfig” and return your computer Startup Selection back to Normal Startup - load all device drives and services. Alternatively, try disabling Startup items and non-essential processes indi­vidually.
Mbox User Guide30
chapter 5
48V
USB
Headphone
Headphone
Source selector
LED
Input 1
Volum e
Output
Monitor
Level
Dim
Gain/
Source selector
Input 2
Sig/Clip
LED
Mono
Soft Limit
Soft Limit
Instrument
Instrument
Multi
-20dB
Sig/Clip
LED
Gain/
-20dB

Mbox Hardware Overview

Mbox Front Panel Features

Figure 1 identifies controls, indicators, and input and output ports on the front panel on the Mbox.
Figure 1. Mbox front panel
The Mbox front panel provides the following:
Signal/Clip LEDs
These LEDs illuminate green in the presence of audio signal, and illuminate red if the signal reaching Mbox has clipped.
Gain Controls/-20dB Pad
These knobs adjust the input gain levels of the Mic/Line inputs. Turn the knob clockwise to in­crease gain, and counter-clockwise to decrease gain.
If your input signal is too hot even with the Gain knob at a low setting, pull the Gain knob out to engage a “pad” that attenuates the signal by 20dB.
Instrument Inputs
These 1/4-inch TS inputs are for connecting an electric guitar, bass, or other instrument-level signal. The level for these inputs is controlled by the Gain Controls.
Chapter 5: Mbox Hardware Overview 31
Soft-Limit Buttons
About Phantom Power
These buttons activate the Soft-Limit function, applying a smooth, overdriven tape-type limit­ing to strong input signals.
Front/Rear Source Selectors
These buttons select either the front panel In­strument Inputs (TS) or rear panel Mic/Line In­puts (XLR/TRS combo) for each channel. When the button is set to the Out position, the front panel Instrument Inputs will be active. When the button is set to the In position, the rear panel Mic/Line Inputs will be active.
Multi Button
The Multi Button can be assigned to execute sev­eral functions in Pro Tools, including Add Track, Start/Stop Record, Tap Tempo, Toggle Marker Locations, and Save Session.
48V Switch and LED
Phantom power is activated by the switch la­beled 48V on the front panel of Mbox. The LED, when lit, indicates that 48V phantom power is active on the XLR Mic inputs. These inputs pro­vide phantom power for microphones that re­quire it to operate.
Dynamic microphones (such as a Shure SM57) do not require phantom power to operate, but are not harmed by it. Most condenser micro- phones (like an M-Audio Solaris) do require phantom power to operate.
Although phantom power can be used safely with most microphones, it is possible to damage some ribbon microphones with it. Always turn off phantom power and wait at least ten seconds before connecting or dis­connecting a ribbon microphone.
When using phantom power, the Mbox maximum current per microphone is 4 mA.
If you are not sure about the phantom power re­quirements for your microphone, consult your microphone’s documentation or contact the manufacturer.
Headphone Volume
The Headphone Volume knob adjusts the out­put level of the Headphone port, which outputs the signal that is routed to Outputs 1–2 in Pro Tools LE, and mirrors the Line Outputs.
Front Panel Headphone Output
Use the Headphone Output to connect stereo headphones with a 1/4-inch stereo connector.
Mbox User Guide32
USB LED
Mono Button
The USB LED indicates that the Mbox is receiv­ing power from its USB connection. Once the USB light is on, audio can pass in or out of the system.
The USB LED is a power LED, which will also in­dicate when the unit is powered in stand-alone mode. In this mode you can connect a USB cable but that cable will be connected to a wall outlet instead of a computer (similar to an iPod or iPhone).
Dim Button and LED
The Dim Button reduces by 30 dB the output volume from both the Line Outputs and the Headphone Output. When engaged, the Dim LED lights.
Guitar Tuner Function
When the Dim Button and the Mono Button are pushed at the same time, the Guitar Tuner func­tion is activated. The Dim and Mono LEDs will flash between off and on to indicate tuner mode is active. When a string is played on a guitar plugged into an Instrument Input, the Input 1 Signal/Clip LED will be illuminated red if tuning is too low, off when tuning is too high, and green when tuning is correct. The Input 2 Sig­nal/Clip LED will be illuminated red if tuning is too high, off when tuning is too low, and green when tuning is correct. The Tuner interface will be displayed in the Software Control panel if the Software Control Panel is open.
The Mono Button sums the control room out­puts to a mono signal (delivering that identical signal to both speakers) via the Driver Control Panel or the Mbox. When engaged, the Mono LED lights.
Checking Phase Relationships
The Mono switch can also be used for a quick check of the phase relationship between Source 1 and Source 2 inputs.
Monitor Level
The Monitor Level knob adjusts the output level of the Monitor Output ports.
Chapter 5: Mbox Hardware Overview 33

Mbox Back Panel Features

USB port
S/PDIF
Monitor
digital I/O
outputs
MIDI I/O
Mic/Line
inputs
Figure 2 identifies each port on the back panel of the Mbox.
Figure 2. Mbox back panel
The Mbox back panel provides the following:
USB Port
This standard USB connector is used to connect a USB 2.0 port on your computer to the Mbox. One standard USB cable is included with your system. (It is also used to power the unit in stand-alone mode.)
MIDI I/O
The MIDI In and MIDI Out ports are standard 5­pin MIDI ports, each providing 16 channels of MIDI input and output.
S/PDIF Digital I/O
The S/PDIF in and out ports are unbalanced two­conductor phono (RCA) connectors that utilize a full 24-bit, two-channel digital data stream.
The Sony/Philips Digital Interface Format (S/PDIF) is used in many professional and con­sumer CD recorders and DAT recorders. To avoid RF interference, use 75-ohm coaxial cable for S/PDIF transfers and keep the cable length to a maximum of 10 meters.
In use, the S/PDIF input channels are available in addition to the two channels of analog audio input. This lets Mbox be used as a 4-in/4-out dig­ital audio interface for Pro Tools LE.
Line Outputs
These outputs support balanced TRS, or unbal­anced TS, 1/4-inch connections. To monitor your mix, these outputs can be connected to a mixing board, directly to a monitoring system such as a stereo power amp, or another stereo destination.
Mbox User Guide34
Mic/Line Inputs
Each analog source input channel provides combination XLR/TRS on the rear panel. These balanced/unbalanced analog audio inputs sup­port the following input levels:
• Mic (microphone) for XLR inputs
• Line (TRS) for line level signals on TRS or TS inputs
On the front panel, the input signal is adjusted by the Gain control for each channel and the source (rear panel Mic/Line, or front panel In­strument) is chosen using the Source selectors.
Mic/Line Input 2 is at the far left (when looking at the back panel), and Mic/Line Input 1 is to its right. The back panel inputs for Mic/Line Input 1 and Mic/Line Input 2 are located such that they are directly in line with their associated in­put controls on the front panel. This lets you lo­cate input jacks more easily when viewing from the front of the unit.
Chapter 5: Mbox Hardware Overview 35
Mbox User Guide36
chapter 6
1/4-inch Headphone jack
Headphone level
Line Out Left
Line Out Right

Making Hardware Connections

To hear audio recorded into a Pro Tools session, you will need to connect headphones or an ex­ternal sound system (such as powered monitors or a home stereo) to Mbox. Sound from Mbox cannot be played through your computer’s speakers or your computer’s sound output.

Connecting Headphones

On the front panel of the Mbox is a 1/4-inch jack to connect headphones, and a headphone level control to adjust headphone volume.

Connecting a Sound System

The Line Outputs on the back of the Mbox sup­port 1/4-inch plugs. These connections can be balanced, TRS (Tip, Ring, Sleeve) style connec­tors, or unbalanced connectors. To listen to your Pro Tools session, these outputs can be con­nected to any amplification system: powered speakers, a home stereo system, or an audio mixer.
When connecting to a stereo system, connect the left channel (often the white plug) to Line Out Left, and right channel (often the red plug) to Line Out Right.
Home stereo systems often use RCA connec­tors. You can use an adaptor or a special ca­ble to convert from the TRS or TS connectors used by Mbox to the RCA connectors on your home stereo.
Headphone jack on front of Mbox
To connect headphones:
Connect headphones with a 1/4-inch stereo
connector (or adapter) to the Headphone jack.
Stereo output from the Mbox (back panel)
Chapter 6: Making Hardware Connections 37

Connecting Audio Inputs

Input 1
Input 2
Input 2 and Input 1
Instrument
Instrument
Mic/Line
Mic/Line
Each Input section has three analog input jacks (the Mic and Line are on a single, combo jack):
This section describes the analog inputs avail­able on Mbox. For information about connect­ing specific audio sources, see “Connecting a Microphone” on page 39, and “Connecting In­struments to the Mbox” on page 40.
Overview of Analog Inputs
Mbox inputs (sources) support microphones, guitars, keyboards, and other types of instru­ments. Mbox has two audio input sections, la­beled Input 1 and Input 2. For stereo inputs, use Input 1 for the left input, and Input 2 for the right input.
Inputs on front panel of Mbox
Mic For XLR microphone cables.
Line (TRS) For 1/4-inch Tip-Ring-Sleeve cables
from keyboards, mixers, and other line sources.
DI For 1/4-inch Tip-Sleeve cables from guitar, bass, or similar sources.
Front panel analog input connectors
Inputs on rear panel of Mbox
The two input sections are located so that the hardware input jacks line up directly behind their corresponding input controls on the front panel. This makes it easier to locate channel in­put connections from the front.
Mbox User Guide38
Rear panel analog input connectors
For information about connecting specific au­dio sources, see “Connecting a Microphone” on page 39, and “Connecting Instruments to the Mbox” on page 40.

Connecting a Microphone

Input 2 Input 1 Mic input Mic input
Source selector
Phantom Power switch
Mic Cables and Connectors
Use a microphone with an XLR connector to connect the microphone to the Mbox.
The Mbox can only supply power through a mi­crophone cable with an XLR connector. If you are not sure about the phantom power require­ments for your microphone, refer to your micro­phone’s documentation or contact the manu­facturer.
XLR connector
Phantom Power
Using a Mic with an XLR Connector
To use a microphone that has an XLR connector:
1 Plug your microphone cable into one of the
Mic/Line inputs on the back of Mbox.
XLR connector plugged into Input 1
2 Set the Source to Rear (“in” position) by press-
ing the Source selector on the front of Mbox.
Some microphones require power to operate. This power, called phantom power, is supplied ei­ther by a battery in the microphone, or through an audio interface (such as Mbox) that can sup­ply power through the microphone cable.
Most condenser microphones (such as an M-Audio Solaris) require phantom power to op­erate. Dynamic microphones (such as a Shure SM57) do not require phantom power to oper­ate, but are not harmed by it.
Although phantom power can be used safely with most microphones, it is possible to damage some ribbon microphones with it. Always turn off phantom power and wait at least ten seconds before connecting a rib­bon microphone.
Input 1 Source selector
3 If your microphone requires phantom power,
make sure the microphone is connected, then press the Phantom Power switch (labeled 48V) on the front of the Mbox. This switch sends 48V to both mic inputs. The 48V LED on the front of the Mbox will light when phantom power is be­ing supplied.
Phantom Power switch
Chapter 6: Making Hardware Connections 39
4 On the front of the Mbox, carefully turn the
Gain
Input 1 instrument input
Input 1 Gain (level) control
Source selector
Gain control to the right to increase the input level of your microphone signal.
Gain knob for Input 1
5 If the incoming signal is too loud, pull the
Gain knob out to engage the –20 dB pad.

Connecting Instruments to the Mbox

Mbox provides two input types (DI and Line) that correspond to the different signal strengths output by different types of instruments.
DI Input Instruments such as electric guitar or electric bass that usually have a lower level of output than line level instruments use the DI (“Direct Inject”) input.
Line Input Line level devices, including elec­tronic audio sources such as mixers, samplers, keyboards, and synthesizers use the Line input.
Connecting Electric Guitar or Bass
To use a guitar with Mbox:
1 On the front of the Mbox, plug your guitar ca-
ble into one of the Instrument inputs.
Connecting a guitar to the 1/4-inch connector
2 On the front of the Mbox, set the source to
Front by setting the input channel Source selec­tor to the Out position (orange band is visible).
Source selector and Gain control for Input 1
3 On the front of the Mbox, carefully turn the
Gain control to the right to increase the input level of your guitar.
Mbox User Guide40
Connecting Keyboards and Mixers
Input 1 left channel)
Input 2 (right channel)
Input 1 Gain (level) control
Source selector
Input 2 Gain (level) control
Source selector
Digital Input and Output
To use a keyboard or mixer with Mbox:
1 Plug your keyboard, mixer, or other audio
source into either the Input 1 or Input 2 Line (TRS) inputs on your Mbox. If your source is ste­reo (such as a stereo keyboard or the stereo out­put from a mixer), connect the left channel (often the white plug) to Input 1, and right channel (often the red plug) to Input 2.
Mbox connections for line-level stereo input source
2 Set the Source to Rear (“in” position) by press-
ing the Source selector on the front of Mbox.
Mbox provides digital inputs and outputs for S/PDIF format digital audio. The two channels of S/PDIF digital input can be used in combina­tion with the two analog inputs (for a total of four simultaneous input channels).
Connecting Digital Devices
To connect a S/PDIF device to Mbox:
1 Use two 75-ohm coaxial cables with male RCA
connectors on both ends (purchased separately).
2 Connect the device’s S/PDIF output to Mbox’s
S/PDIF input port, and the device’s S/PDIF input to Mbox’s S/PDIF output port.
To configure Mbox to record from a digital source, choose Setups > Hardware Setup in Pro Tools, then select S/PDIF in the Clock Source.
Using S/PDIF Input
To configure Pro Tools to record from a S/PDIF device:
1 Choose Setups > Hardware Setup.
Source selector and Gain control for Inputs 1 and 2
3 Set your instrument’s volume to its optimal
level. For example, the optimal level for most keyboards is between 80% and 100% of maxi­mum volume.
4 On the front of the Mbox, carefully turn the
Gain control to the right to increase the input level of your keyboard.
2 Select S/PDIF from the Clock Source pop-up
menu.
3 Click OK.
4 On the recording track, select the appropriate
stereo or mono S/PDIF source from the track In­put selector.
Once enabled in the Hardware Setup dialog, the S/PDIF inputs become active and will pass audio to Mbox.
Setting the Clock Source to S/PDIF is the only way to utilize S/PDIF input. Doing so lets you re­cord or monitor up to four discrete input chan­nels (2 analog and two S/PDIF).
Chapter 6: Making Hardware Connections 41

MIDI Connections

MIDI In
MIDI Out
Input 2
Input 1
The two MIDI ports on Mbox let you take ad­vantage of all the MIDI features of Pro Tools LE, including recording and editing MIDI tracks.
If you need additional MIDI ports you can add a compatible MIDI interface. USB MIDI interfaces work effectively with Pro Tools systems on Win­dows or Mac. Serial MIDI interfaces are sup­ported on Windows systems only.
Only USB MIDI interfaces are compatible with Pro Tools systems for Mac OS X. Mo­dem-to-serial port adapters and serial MIDI devices are not supported.
To connect your MIDI device to Mbox:
1 Connect a standard 5-pin MIDI cable from the
MIDI Out port of your device to the MIDI In port on the back of Mbox.
2 Connect another MIDI cable from the
MIDI In port of your device to the MIDI Out port on the back of Mbox.
Monitoring MIDI Instruments with Mbox
If you have a MIDI instrument that has analog outputs, you can connect it to Mbox to monitor its output.
To connect your MIDI instrument for monitoring in Pro Tools:
Connect the MIDI instrument’s audio outputs
to the Line (TRS) inputs on your Mbox.
Mbox connections for line-level stereo input source
MIDI connections to Mbox
Mbox User Guide42
appendix a
Layout menu
Presets menu
Additional Functions

Using the Driver Control Panel

The Mbox Driver Control Panel lets you config­ure settings for your audio interface for use with Pro Tools or other audio applications that sup­port the CoreAudio Drivers (Mac) or ASIO Audio Drivers (Windows) standard.
Several features of Mbox can be accessed directly from the Mbox front panel, such as input gain, phantom power, and output levels. But there are many additional parameters that cannot be ac­cessed from the front panel. These additional features are available to you using the included Driver Control Panel application.
To open the Driver Control Panel
On Mac, launch System Preferences (Apple
menu > System Preferences), then double-click Avid Mbox. (You can also open the Driver Con­trol Panel from the Applications menu.)
– or –
On Windows, choose Start > Control Panel >
Mbox.
Mbox Driver Control Panel (Horizontal view shown)
Appendix A: Using the Driver Control Panel 43
To open the Driver Control Panel from Pro Tools:
1 Choose Setup > Hardware in the Edit window.
2 Click launch control panel.
Mbox Driver Control Panel launched in a Pro Tools session

Presets

Layouts

The Layout drop-down menu lets you choose what information you would like the Driver Control Panel to show, and how you would like that information to be displayed. There are four layouts to select from:
Horizontal
The Horizontal layout is the default layout. It shows all knobs, faders, meters and buttons in a layout similar to that of a mixing console. The Horizontal layout is used for all the screen cap­tures in this chapter.
Horizontal (Meters Only)
The Meters Only layout emphasizes pre-fader hardware input and software return metering, but does not provide access to the stereo mixers.
The Preset view lets you load and save Mbox Set­tings files, which contain all settings of the Mbox Driver Control Panel. This is useful if you'd like to save various configurations so that you do not have to manually reconfigure your system ea ch time you wor k on a diff erent type of project.
Load Button
The Load Button opens a file browser that lets you load a previously saved Settings file.
Save as...
The Save as button opens a file browser that lets you save the current settings of the Driver Con­trol Panel to a Settings file.
Mbox User Guide44
Mbox Driver Control Panel (Horizontal (Meters only) shown)
Vertical
Vertical (Meters Only)
Mbox Driver Control Panel (Vertical shown)
The Vertical layout provides access to all con­trols and meters in a vertical window. The Verti­cal layout was designed for compact operation, which is convenient if you want to run it along with Pro Tools (uses far less screen real estate, but provides full functionality).
Mbox Driver Control Panel (Vertical (Meters only) shown)
The Meters Only layout emphasizes pre-fader hardware input and software return metering, but does not provide access to the stereo mixers
Appendix A: Using the Driver Control Panel 45

Additional Functions

Mbox also features a variety of functions acces­sible through pop-up menus located at the up­per-right area of the Control Panel:
•Tuner
•Setup
•Flow
•About
Tun er
The Tuner activates the tuner function of Mbox. You can also access the tuner by pressing the front panel Mono and Dim buttons simultane­ously. A tuner display will appear in the center of the Driver Control Panel, and the front panel input meters will function as tuning indicators as well.
When tuning from the front panel, use the in­put meters (LED ladders). They are red when out of tune and green when in tune.
Setup
Setup is where you define the hardware settings of the Mbox. For example, you can set buffer size, sample rate, and clock source. Think of Setup as a quick way to customize Mbox behav­ior.
Setup pop-up menu
In the Setup window, the options are grouped in the following categories:
Hardware Settings
The parameters in this section of the Control Panel govern the operation of the interface when it is connected to a computer using a UBS cable (i.e., Hosted Mode).
This section of the Control Panel provides pa­rameters you can set on your interface when it is connected to a computer using a UBS cable.
Mbox User Guide46
Disable Host Control
This setting lets you rest control of the Driver Control Panel from Pro Tools. When you launch Pro Tools, it takes control of the Driver Control Panel's first stereo mixer. If you want to obtain full manual control of the Driver Control Panel, choose this option.
If you want to use the Low Latency Monitor­ing option of Pro Tools, this option must not be checked.
Clock Source
This setting determines the clock source to which Mbox is synchronized.
Internal If you are using Mbox by itself (i.e., with­out other digital devices or an external clock), select the Internal option for the interface to work properly.
S/PDIF If have connected a S/PDIF device to your Mbox and would like to use that device as the master clock source, select the S/PDIF op­tion. This will make Mbox clock to the external device’s clock.
In Windows Vista, when using the Mbox WDM/MME (i.e., non-ASIO) drivers, the sample rate of the interface (and your audio software) is always determined by this drop-down menu. Your selection in this menu is the only item that will appear in your audio application. For example, if you select “44.1kHz” in this menu, your audio application’s control panel will only display “44.1kHz” and you will not be able to se­lect any other rates from within the applica­tion.
When the sample rate is locked to an external digital clock source, the Mbox’s LED is solid blue. When the sample rate is set and there is no digital clock source detected (or cannot lock to it for some reason), the LED will blink. (A message appears at the bottom of the Hardware Settings section stating that: “External clock not de­tected, Audio Streaming is Disabled.”).
Buffer Size (Windows only)
This menu sets the size of the input and output buffers on Mbox.
Sample Rate
This drop-down menu sets the sample rate of Mbox. Note that when using the interface with an ASIO or CoreAudio application, the sample rate can also be determined by your audio appli­cation. This parameter may not be editable from within the Mbox Control Panel if your audio ap­plication is running. In this case, any changes to the sample rate must be made through the audio application itself. If the application does not provide a way to set the sample rate, quit the ap­plication, then change the sample rate through the Mbox Control Panel.
Buffers are used to help keep audio hardware and software running smoothly by processing audio in groups of samples rather than one sam­ple at a time. Due to variations between com­puter hardware and software, it is impossible to recommend a single optimum setting for all sys­tems. It may be necessary to experiment with various settings until you find the best buffer size for your system.
The goal of setting a buffer size is to reduce it as much as possible without hearing any clicks, pops, or other glitches. If the buffer size is too small, the computer will not be able to make all the required audio calculations on time and you will hear pops, clicks, and stuttering in your au­dio streams. On the other hand, if the buffer size
Appendix A: Using the Driver Control Panel 47
is set too high, your computer will process audio without incident, but your software will feel sluggish and unresponsive. See “Hardware Buf­fer Size” on page 18.
To find your system’s optimum buffer size set­ting, begin with a high setting and gradually re­duce the size until you begin to hear clicks, pops, or other audible glitches in your audio. Then, raise the buffer size setting until these glitches disappear. You may need to stop play­ing audio any time you change this setting and certain applications will require you to re­launch the program before the new buffer size settings become active.
Driver Control Panel Options
Hold Clipping Indicators until Clicked
The top section of the meters (or right section for horizontal meters) of the Driver Control Panel feature a red clipping indicator. When this option is selected, the clipping indicators will re­main lit until they are clicked.
Load Latency and Clock Settings from Settings Files
When this option is selected, the clock source and buffer settings are recalled when loading a setting file
This menu only appears on Windows sys­tems. Most Mac OS X applications allow to change the buffer size from within the au­dio application itself. Please see your audio application’s user guide to learn how to change this setting.
Soft Button Settings
The Mbox has four “Soft” buttons: Multi, +48v, Mono, and Dim.
Hold Duration
This pop-up menu gives you four choices of Press and Hold duration for all soft buttons on the front of the Mbox. Choose between 250 msec, 500 msec, 750 msec, and 1 sec.
Use Dim LEDs for Button off State
Checking this option gives you a dim LED for all the soft buttons that are off (so you can still dis­cern the LED in the dark).
Post-Fader Meters
When this option is selected, fader positions will affect the meters. Post-Fader Meters mean the meter indicate post-fader levels.
Pre-Fader Meters
When this option is selected, the meters display the level of a signal before it passes the fader. This allows signal levels to be displayed regard­less of the fader positions within the stereo mix (in other words, a fader can be all the way down and no sound will be heard from the mixer’s output, but you can still see if there is any activ­ity on that input).
Mbox User Guide48
FX Sends Mode
Firmware and driver information
Web links
About
Pre-Fader FX Sends
When Pre-Fader FX Sends is selected, the full au­dio signal will be sent to the FX Sends, regardless of the position of the Channel Faders of stereo mix 1–2.
Post-Fader (Mix 1/2) FX Sends
When Post-Fader (Mix 1/2) is selected, the audio signal level being sent to the FX Sends will be af­fected by the position of the Channel Faders of Stereo Mix 1.
Flow
Clicking the Flow pop-up menu opens a display showing the signal flow from the inputs to the outputs of Mbox. This is a useful reference for understanding the path of an audio signal flow­ing through Mbox.
The About pop-up menu allows you to view the firmware version of the Mbox hardware, and the package version of the Mbox driver installer.
Viewing Firmware and Installer Information
Directly above the status indicators, you can view the firmware version of the Mbox Mini hardware, and the package version of the Mbox driver installer.
Accessing the Web Links
Along the bottom-right of the Driver Control Panel you can easily access helpful online re­sources on our Avid website (www.avid.com) by clicking on the following pop-up menus:
•Manual
•Updates
• Support
•FAQs
•Register
Clicking on any of the “Web links” will open your web browser. Your computer must have Internet access for these pages to load.
Appendix A: Using the Driver Control Panel 49

Stereo Mixes

This 8-input, 4-output mixer allows you to cre­ate two different stereo mixes from 8 input sources consisting of any of the hardware inputs (i.e., analog and digital inputs) and software re­turns (software outputs). This allows you to set up near-zero latency cue mixes in which the per­formers hear a “customized” mix while record­ing.
It is important to note that any changes made to the stereo mix will only affect what is audible from the mixer’s outputs—the stereo mix does not affect the signals that are sent to Pro Tools for recording. For example, if you are recording a vocalist and he/she tells you to turn up the vo­cal track so they can hear themselves better, you can increase the vocalist’s microphone channel in the stereo mix. This will make the vocal part louder in the vocalist’s headphones, but it will still be recorded into Pro Tools at the volume de­termined by the front panel Gain Adjustment Knob.
The stereo mix features multi-segment meters to show input channel levels (directly above each channel) and main mixer output levels (at the top right of the mixer). The peak hold indica­tion time as well as pre/post fader metering op­eration can be set from the Settings Tab of the Control Panel. The clip indicators can be reset by clicking on the meter itself.
Keep in mind that setting or adjusting the stereo mix will not affect the signal that is recorded into Pro Tools. For example, you’ll still be able to record a channel while its corresponding ste­reo mix channel is muted. You won’t hear the part through the stereo mix as it is being re­corded, but it will still record into Pro Tools and play back properly.
The stereo is set up like a standard mixing con­sole: There are 8 input channels, each with its own volume fader, pan and aux send knobs, solo, and mute buttons, as well as a master out­put section with its own faders and mute but­ton.
A pair of channels can be linked together by clicking the link icon between the two channels. Linking channels allows you to adjust mute, solo, and fader settings simultaneously by mod­ifying parameters on either one of the linked channels. However, linking two channels will not have any effect on their Pan controls, which are always made on a per-channel basis.
Mbox User Guide50

Using the Stereo Mix Section

Signal Meter
Solo
Channel Fader
Channel Label
Pan
Mute
Link
Master
Hardware Inputs
Software Returns
Effects
The stereo mix section is located in the main view of the Driver Control Panel and is divided into four main sections:
• Hardware Inputs
• Software Returns
•Effects
•Master
Hardware Inputs
The Hardware Inputs section is where the Mic/Line and Instrument inputs are monitored, as well as the S/PDIF input of Mbox. Hardware Inputs 1–2 are the analog inputs, and Hardware Inputs 3–4 are the S/PDIF input L/R.
Software Returns
The Software Returns section is where the audio coming back from Pro Tools (or other audio ap­plication) is monitored. Software Returns 1 and 2 will be the default stereo output from Pro Tools.
Appendix A: Using the Driver Control Panel 51
Pan
Links buttons
Link
The Pan knobs control the position of a chan­nel’s audio signal in the stereo image of the ste­reo mix (double-click the knob to return pan to center).
Solo
Each Solo button lets audio be monitored for the channel of which it is a part, while simultane­ously muting all other Hardware Input channels and Software Returns (except for those that also have their Solo buttons activated).
Mute
The Mute buttons are used to individually turn off audio monitoring for each channel in the stereo mix.
Channel Faders
The Channel Faders control the monitoring vol­ume level of each channel in the stereo mix.
Channel Labels
By default, the Channel Labels show the input name of each channel (1–8), except for the Mas­ter fader pair (which is labeled L/R by default).
Clicking on a Channel Label gives you a cursor, allowing you to type in your own custom chan­nel name (such as “guitar,” “vocals,” etc.).
The Link buttons connect stereo pairs of knobs or faders (and also links the corresponding FX Send knobs), so that adjusting either channel (left/right) adjusts the other side identically.
Pan controls are unaffected by linking two channels.
Effects
The Effects section is where you set up “send­and-return” configurations, and select the ef­fects that you apply to the Hardware Inputs and/or Software Returns.
Hardware Input FX Sends
FX Sends are shared by all Stereo Mixes, unless “Post-Fader Stereo Mix 1” is chosen in the Setup pop-up menu.
Software Return FX Sends
FX Sends are shared by all Stereo Mixes, unless “Post-Fader Stereo Mix 1” is chosen in the Setup pop-up menu.
The Channel Labels also display the signal level (in dB) while a fader is being adjusted.
Mbox User Guide52
FX Returns
Master fader
Channel Fader
Balance knob
Swap button
Stereo Mix Copy pull-on
Width knob
Mute button (L)
Mute button (R)
Master
These knobs control how much of the Effect au­dio output will be mixed in with the monitor signal Master L/R outputs. Unlike sends, FX Returns are individually adjustable for each stereo mix.
The Clip LED will show clipping if the input to the FX is clipping and if the output is clipping (the rest of the meter is just output).
Effect
The Effe ct drop-down menu is used t o se lect the effect to be applied to the Hardware Inputs and/or Software Returns. There are five available reverb types: Three room reverbs and two hall reverbs, delay, and echo. These effects can be customized by using the following three con­trols:
Duration This knob controls decay time (for the reverbs) or delay time (for delay and echo).
Feedback This knob controls the number of re­peats for the delay and echo effects. It does not affect the reverbs.
The Master section is for monitoring the main mixer output. This output can be routed to any hardware output. Each Stereo Mix includes mas­ter section with several controls:
Master Fader Adjusts the overall level of the ste­reo mix.
Balance Knob Adjusts the left/right balance of the stereo mix (double-click the knob to return it to center).
Volume This knob controls the effects output level being sent to the FX Returns.
Width Knob Adjusts the width of the stereo im­age, where fully counter-clockwise is mono, and fully clockwise is full stereo (double-click the knob to return it to center).
Mute Buttons Mutes the left and/or right side of the stereo mix.
Appendix A: Using the Driver Control Panel 53
Swap Button Swaps the stereo image, making the
Status indicators
left channel play out the Right output, and the right channel play out the Left output.
Link Button Links the FXReturns section and the mute buttons.
Master Meters Lets you have a visual representa­tion of the audio signal being fed to the associ­ated hardware output pair.
Stereo Mix Copy Lets you copy the settings of the current stereo mix to one of the other stereo mixes.
Status Indicators
Along the bottom-left of the Driver Control Panel are the following status indicators:
Hardware Connected
This tells you the status of the hardware; if a properly installed, powered-on Mbox is con­nected to the computer.
Streaming
This indicates if audio from a Digital Audio Workstation or a media player (such as Pro Tools or Windows Media Player) is currently stream­ing audio to the Mbox.
Host Control Enabled
If an application such as Pro Tools has control over the Driver Control Panel, then “Host Con­trol Enabled” displays.
Mbox User Guide54
appendix b
Multi button

Using the Multi Button

The Multi button on the front panel of the Mbox can be assigned to easily execute several functions in Pro Tools including (but not lim­ited to):
•Add Track
• Start/Stop Record
•Tap Tempo
• Locating to Next/Previous Marker
• Save Session

Using the Multi Button

In the Hardware Setup dialog, Pro Tools lets you set three Multi button parameters for your Mbox using the “Multi Button Function” pane. (You can also launch the Driver Control Panel from here).
For more information on the Driver Control Panel, see Appendix A, “Using the Driver Control Panel.”.
The Multi Button Function includes the follow­ing options:
Press and Release Displays the options avail­able for Press and Release mode.
Mbox (Multi button shown)
You can use the Multi button to do these and other common tasks with a single button in­stead of using on-screen menu commands. By pressing the Multi button two different ways (Press and Release, Press and Hold) you can per­form two functions with one button.
Press and Hold Displays the options available for Press and Hold mode.
Duration Gives four time duration options for Press and Hold button.
Launch Control Panel Launches Driver Control Panel.
Appendix B: Using the Multi Button 55
To use the Multi Button Function pane and
Multi button
configure its parameters (example):
1 Launch Pro Tools.
2 Choose Track > New and create 1 Mono audio
track.
You need to have at least one track avail­able in a session to use the Add Last Track and Add Selected Track functions.
3 Choose Setup > Hardware.
4 From the Press and Release list, select
Start/Stop Record (the default).
5 From the Press and Hold list, select Add Se-
lected Tracks (the default).
Multi Button Function pane (Shown in Hardware Setup dialog)
6 From the Hold Duration list, select 500 msec
(the default).
7 Go to the Edit Window and select the track
you just created.
8 Press and hold the Multi button for 500 msec,
then release. A new track is added in Record En­able mode.
9 Press and immediately release the Multi but-
ton. The track begins recording.
This is just one example of how easy it is to use the Multi button if you want to quickly throw down tracks and record. But you can personalize the Multi button settings to fit any audio work­flow that works for you.

Press and Release Options

When you click on the Press and Release list, a pop-up menu provides access to the following options:
None No function is selected in this mode.
Add Last Track Adds the last track type that you
created in the session. Say you have created two Audio tracks in a session. It will add another mono Audio track.
Add Selected Track Adds whatever tracks that you have selected in a session. Say you have se­lected two Audio tracks in a session. It will add another two Audio tracks.
Cursor to Next Marker Each time the button is pressed and released, the transport will locate to the next marker location.
Cursor to Previous Marker Each time the button is pressed and released, the transport will locate to the previous marker location.
Start/Stop Playback Each time the button is pressed and released, it starts/stops playing back the session.
Start/Stop Record Each time the button is pressed and released, it starts/stops recording.
Loop Playback Toggle Each time the button is pressed and released, the Loop Playback mode is toggled between enabled and disabled.
Mbox User Guide56
Undo Each time the button is pressed and re­leased, it undoes that last operation you per­formed in Pro Tools. (Same as the Undo com­mand from the Pro Tools menu)
Add Selected Track Adds whatever tracks that you have selected in a session. Say you have se­lected two Audio tracks in a session. It will add another two Audio tracks.
Save Session Each time the Multi button is pressed and released, it saves the session.
Tap Temp o The Multi button can be tapped to adjust the session tempo. Tapping tempo will cause Pro Tools to come out of Conductor mode and match its tempo to the tapped tempo. If Pro Tools is already in Manual Tempo mode, the session will automatically adjust its tempo to match the value created by the Tap Tempo func­tion.

Press and Hold Options

When you click on the Press and Hold list, a pop-up menu provides access to the following options:
Cursor to Next Marker Each time the button is held and released, the transport will locate to the next marker location.
Cursor to Previous Marker Each time the button is held and released, the transport will locate to the previous marker location.
Start/Stop Playback Each time the button is held and released, it starts/stops playing back the session.
Start/Stop Record Each time the button is held and released, it starts/stops recording.
Loop Playback Toggle Each time the button is held and released, the Loop Playback mode is toggled between enabled and disabled.
Undo Each time the button is held and released, it undoes that last operation you performed in Pro Tools. (Same as the Undo command from the Pro Tools menu)
Save Session Each time the Multi button is held and released, it saves the session.
None No function is selected in this mode.
Add Last Track Adds whatever the last track type
was that you created in the session. Say you have five types of tracks in your session but the most recent track you created was 1 Mono
Audio Track, in Samples. It will add another 1 Mono Audio Track, in Samples.
Appendix B: Using the Multi Button 57

Hold Duration Options

When you click on the Hold Duration list, a drop-down menu provides access to the follow­ing options:
Hold Duration There are four choices of Hold Du­ration (250 msec, 500 msec, 750 msec, and 1 sec), which is the amount of time you choose to hold the Multi button down in Press and Hold mode. The default is 500 msec.
Mbox User Guide58
appendix c

Configuring AMS (Mac OS X Only)

2 Click MIDI Devices. AMS scans your system for

Audio MIDI Setup

Pro Tools recognizes the ports on your MIDI in­terface as generic ports. With Mac OS X, you use Apple’s Audio MIDI Setup (AMS) utility to iden­tify external MIDI devices connected to your MIDI interface and configure your MIDI studio for use with Pro Tools.
To configure your MIDI studio in AMS:
1 Do one of the following:
• Launch Audio MIDI Setup (located in Mac­intosh HD/Applications/Utilities).
– or –
• In Pro Tools, choose Setup > MIDI > MIDI Studio. (If the MIDI Studio window is not open, click Window > Show MIDI Window.)
connected MIDI interfaces. If your MIDI inter­face is properly connected, it appears in the win­dow with each of its ports numbered.
Audio MIDI Setup (MIDI Devices)
3 For any MIDI devices connected to the MIDI
interface, click Add Device. A new external device icon with the default MIDI keyboard image will appear.
4 Drag the new device icon to a convenient lo-
cation within the window.
Appendix C: Configuring AMS (Mac OS X Only) 59
5 Connect the MIDI device to the MIDI inter-
face by clicking the arrow for the appropriate output port of the device and dragging a con­nection or “cable” to the input arrow of the cor­responding port of the MIDI interface.
Making MIDI input and output connections
6 Click the arrow for the appropriate input port
of the device and drag a cable to the output ar­row of the corresponding port of the MIDI inter­face.
To remove a connection, select the cable and
press Delete. To delete all connections, click Clear Cables.
7 Repeat steps 3–6 for each MIDI device in your
MIDI setup.
2 Select a manufacturer and model for the new
device from the corresponding pop-up menus. (If the Manufacturer and Model pop-up menus do not provide a name for your particular de­vice, you can type a name.)
Naming a new MIDI device
For Manufacturer and Model names, AMS refers to one or more files with the suffix “.middev” in the directory Root/Library/ Audio/MIDI Devices. Pro Tools installs a file that contains information for many commercially available MIDI devices, named “Digidesign Device List.middev.” If the Manufacturer or Model names for any of your external MIDI devices is not available in the AMS Manufacturer and Model pop­up menus, you can add them by editing the .middev file in any text editor (such as TextEdit).
To configure an external MIDI device:
1 Select the external device icon and click Show
Info (or double-click the new device icon).
External Device Icon
Mbox User Guide60
3 Click the More Information arrow to expand
the dialog, then enable the appropriate MIDI channels (1–16) for the Transmits and Receives options. (These determine which channels the device will use to send and receive MIDI.)
Enabling MIDI channels
4 Click the device image. The window expands
to show images for various MIDI devices (such as keyboards, modules, interfaces, and mixers). Select an icon for your device.
Selecting a device icon
To use your own custom icons, you can place TIFF image files in /Library/ Audio/MIDI Devices/Generic/Images, and they will appear as choices in the AMS device window.
5 Click OK.
The device names you enter appear as MIDI in­put and output choices in Pro Tools.
Appendix C: Configuring AMS (Mac OS X Only) 61

MIDI Patch Name Support

Patch Select button (Edit window)
Patch Select button (Mix window)
Change button
Pro Tools supports XML (Extensible Markup Language) for storing and importing patch names for you external MIDI devices. Pro Tools installs MIDI patch name files (.midnam) for the factory default patch names of many common MIDI devices. These files reside in directories, sorted by manufacturer, in Macintosh HD/ Library/Audio/MIDI Patch Names/Digidesign.
To import MIDI patch names into Pro Tools:
1 Verify the MIDI Device name in the Audio
MIDI Setup window (see “Aud io MIDI Setup” on page 59).
2 Verify the Instrument or MIDI track output is
correctly assigned to the MIDI device.
3 Click the Instrument or MIDI track Patch Se-
lect button.
4 In the Patch Select dialog, click Change.
Patch Select dialog
5 In the Open dialog, navigate to /Library/Au-
dio/MIDI Patch Names/Digidesign/<name of manufacturer>, and select the MIDI Patch Name file (.midnam) for the MIDI device.
6 Click Open.
The Patch Select dialog is populated with patch names and the Patch Name Bank pop-up menu appears in the upper left hand corner of the win­dow.
Once patch names have been imported into Pro Tools, they are available for that MIDI de­vice in all sessions.
Patch Select button
Mbox User Guide62
To clear patch names:
In the Patch Select dialog, click Clear, and the
click Done.
MIDI patch name files (.midnam) can be edited in any text editor, or you can use third-party patch librarian and editor soft­ware to create your own custom patch names.
appendix d

Configuring MIDI Studio Setup (Windows Only)

MIDI Studio Setup

MIDI Studio Setup (MSS) lets you configure the MIDI controllers and sound modules that are connected to your system, and control the rout­ing of MIDI data between your MIDI equipment and Pro Tools.
MSS automatically finds MIDI interfaces, and lets you specify a custom name for each of the MIDI ports within the MIDI Studio Setup docu­ment.
MSS also supports XML-based patch file names for storing and importing patch names for your external MIDI devices.
Entire MIDI Studio Setup configurations created within MSS can be imported and exported.
MIDI Studio Setup Window
The MIDI Studio Setup window is organized into three sections. Interface controls are at the top of the window. All the currently defined in­struments are displayed in the Instrument Name list on the left side of the window. A detailed view of MIDI parameters is shown in the Proper­ties section on the right.
MIDI Studio Setup Properties section
Appendix D: Configuring MIDI Studio Setup (Windows Only) 63
Interface Controls
Properties Section
Create Adds a new instrument to the Instru­ment Name list.
Delete Deletes the instrument or instruments se­lected in the Instrument Name list.
Import Imports an existing MIDI Studio Setup file.
Export Exports the current MIDI Studio Setup file.
Show Duplicate Emulated Ports When this op­tion is selected and you are using a MIDI inter­face that supports timestamping (such as MIDI I/O), in addition to the MIDI ports on Mbox, the MIDI Studio setup window shows both the Di­rectMusic time-stamped output ports, and non­stamped duplicate emulated output ports.
Some MIDI Interfaces will not properly load or unload their drivers unless you quit and re-launch Pro Tools. Check the documenta­tion that came with your MIDI interface for more information.
Instrument List
The Instrument list contains all the currently defined instruments. Selecting an instrument in the list displays that instrument’s properties in the Properties section of the window.
The Properties section lets you edit information for new instruments, or instrument currently se­lected in the Instrument list.
MIDI Studio Setup Properties section
When a previously defined instrument is se­lected in the Instrument list, the Properties sec­tion changes to reflect the properties of the se­lected instrument.
To define an instrument with MIDI Studio Setup:
1 Choose Setup > MIDI > MIDI Studio.
2 Click Create.
3 In the Instrument Name field, type the name
of your instrument, and press Enter.
If you do not enter an instrument name, the Instrument Name field will automatically inherit information from the Manufacturer and Model pop-up menu.
4 Set a manufacturer and model for the new de-
vice from the corresponding pop-up menus. If the Manufacturer and Model pop-up menus do not provide a name for your particular device, select None.
5 From the Input pop-up menu, select the input
po rt on y our MI DI int erface that is connected to the MIDI Out of your instrument.
Mbox User Guide64
6 From the Output pop-up menu, select the out-
put port on your MIDI interface that is con­nected to the MIDI In of your instrument.
7 Enable the appropriate MIDI channels (1–16)
for the Send Channels and Receive Channels op­tions (These determine which channels send and receive MIDI.)
face port that is set and displayed here is the port through which MIDI data is sent from the external MIDI device specified in the Instru­ment Name field into your MIDI interface.
If you set the input port to None, the defined instrument will not appear as a choice in a MIDI Input selector.
Instrument Name
The Instrument Name field shows the user-de­finable instrument name for the currently se­lected instrument.
Manufacturer
The Manufacturer pop-up menu provides a list of MIDI equipment manufacturers. This list is derived from the XML-based MIDI device files.
For more information, see “MIDI Patch Name Support” on page 65.
Model
The Model pop-up menu provides a list of MIDI devices, filtered by the manufacturer name. This list is derived from the XML-based MIDI device files provided with your Pro Tools installation.
For more information, see “MIDI Patch Name Support” on page 65.
Input Port
Output Port
The Output Port pop-up menu displays a list of available MIDI interface output ports. The port set and displayed here is the port through which MIDI data is sent from your MIDI interface to the MIDI device specified in the Instrument Name field.
If you set the output port to None, the de­fined instrument will not appear as a choice in a MIDI Output selector.
Send Channels
The Send Channels grid sets the send channels for the MIDI device specified in the Instrument Name field.
Receive Channels
The Receive Channels grid sets the receive chan­nels for the MIDI device specified in the Instru­ment Name field.
The Input Port pop-up menu displays a list of available MIDI interface input ports. Inputs will include Mbox and any additional MIDI inter­faces enabled on your system. The MIDI inter-

MIDI Patch Name Support

Pro Tools supports XML (Extensible Markup Language) for storing and importing patch names for your external MIDI devices. Pro Tools installs MIDI patch name files (.midnam) for the factory default patch names of many common MIDI devices. These files reside in directories, sorted by manufacturer, in C:\Program Files\ Common Files\Digidesign\MIDI Patch Names\ Digidesign.
Appendix D: Configuring MIDI Studio Setup (Windows Only) 65
To import MIDI patch names into Pro Tools:
Patch Select button (Edit window)
Patch Select button (Mix window)
Change button
1 Verify the MIDI Device name in the MIDI Stu-
dio Setup window (see “MIDI Studio Setup” on page 63).
2 Verify the Instrument or MIDI track output is
correctly assigned to the MIDI device.
3 Click the Instrument or MIDI track Patch Se-
lect button.
Patch Select button
4 In the Patch Select dialog, click Change.
The Patch Select dialog is populated with patch names and the Patch Name Bank pop-up menu appears in the upper left hand corner of the win­dow.
Patch Select dialog with patch names
Once patch names have been imported into Pro Tools, they are available for that MIDI de­vice in all sessions.
To clear patch names:
In the Patch Select dialog, click Clear and then
click Done.
Patch Select dialog
5 In the Open dialog, navigate to C:\Program
Files\Common Files\Digidesign\MIDI Patch Names\Digidesign\<name of manufacturer>, and select the MIDI Patch Name file (.midnam) for the MIDI device.
6 Click Open.
Mbox User Guide66
MIDI patch name files (.midnam) can be edited in any text editor, or you can use third-party patch librarian and editor soft­ware to create your own custom patch names.
appendix e

Hard Drive Configuration and Maintenance

It is recommended that you start with a newly formatted external or secondary internal audio drive. You should also periodically defragment your audio drive to ensure continued system performance.

Supported Drive Formats and Drive Types

Drive Formats
Always back up any important data on your drive before formatting it, as it will erase all data on the drive.

Avoid Recording to the System Drive

Recording to your system drive is not recom­mended. Recording and playback on a system drive may result in lower track counts or fewer plug-ins.
Mac Mac systems should use drives formatted with HFS+ or HFS file system only.
HFS drives are supported as Transfer drives only.
Windows Windows XP systems should use drives formatted as NTFS only.
Windows systems can also support Mac drives formatted with HFS+ system (also commonly referred to as Mac OS Extended). Refer to the Pro Tools Reference Guide for more information (Help > Pro Tools Refer­ence Guide).
Hard drive performance depends on factors in­cluding system configuration, number of tracks, session sample rate, density of edits, and the use of crossfades and other processes such as Beat Detective in a session.
For complete hard drive requirements, visit our website (www.avid.com).
Appendix E: Hard Drive Configuration and Maintenance 67
FireWire Hard Drives
Avid recommends qualified FireWire drives and (on Windows systems) a qualified FireWire host adapter.
For complete information on track count and the supported number and configuration of FireWire drives, visit our website (www.avid.com)
ATA/SATA Hard Drives
A qualified internal ATA/SATA drive may be used as a dedicated audio drive.
For complete information on track count with internal drives, refer to our website (www.avid.com).
2 Click the Erase tab.
Disk Utility (Mac OS X)
3 Select the drive you want to initialize in the
column on the left side of the window.
SCSI Hard Drives
Avid recommends qualified SCSI hard drives and a qualified SCSI host bus adapter (HBA) card or (on Windows systems) a qualified built-in SCSI HBA connector on the motherboard.
For complete information on track count and the supported number and configuration of SCSI drives, visit our website (www.avid.com).

Formatting an Audio Drive

Formatting Mac Audio Drives
For optimum performance, audio drives should be formatted as Mac OS Extended (Journaled).
To format an audio drive:
1 Launch the Disk Utility application, located in
Macintosh HD/Applications/Utilities.
4 Choose the Mac OS Extended (Journaled) for-
mat.
Do not choose the “Case-Sensitive” format option. Pro Tools will not operate properly with case-sensitive formatted drives.
5 Type a name for the new volume.
6 If you plan to connect the drive to a Mac OS 9
computer, select Install Mac OS 9 Drivers (Mac OS 9 options only appear in 10.5 or below).
7 Click Erase.
The drive appears on the Desktop with the new volume name.
Formatting Windows Audio Drives
For optimal performance, audio drives should be formatted as NTFS.
Pro Tools only supports Basic drive types. Do not convert the drive to a Dynamic type.
Mbox User Guide68
To format an audio drive (Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP):
1 Right-click Computer (Windows 7,
Windows Vista) or My Computer (Windows XP) and choose Manage.
2 Under Storage, choose Disk Management.
Disk Management window (Windows XP)
• In the New Partition Wizard window, click Next.
• When prompted, select the partition type.
Avid recommends using Primary partitions, instead of Extended partitions.
• Follow the on-screen instructions to select a partition size and other partition settings.
• When prompted, choose a file system. For optimum performance, audio drives should be formatted as NTFS.
• Select Perform a quick format.
•Make sure Enable file and folder compression is not selected.
• Set the Allocation unit size to Default.
• Click OK.
3 If the volume is “Healthy,” do the following:
Healthy volumes are volumes that have pre­viously been partitioned and formatted.
• In the Disk Management window, right­click the hard drive you will use for audio and choose Format.
• In the Format window, name the volume.
• Choose a file system. For optimum perfor­mance, audio drives should be formatted as NTFS.
• Select Perform a quick format.
•Make sure Enable file and folder compression is not selected.
• Set the Allocation unit size to Default.
• Click OK.
4 If the volume is “Unallocated,” do the follow-
ing:
• In the Disk Management window, Right­click the hard drive you will use for audio and choose New Partition.

Partitioning Drives

Partitioning creates a logical volume or volumes on a physical drive, almost as if you were creat­ing virtual hard drives. Partitions can then be formatted with the appropriate file system (NTFS for Windows, HFS+ for Mac).
Mac OS allows drives larger than 4096 MB to be seen as whole volumes. Drives must be initialized with a disk utility that recog­nizes the 2 terabyte limit. Single Pro Tools audio files cannot exceed 3.4 GB in size.
Windows XP allows drives formatted with the NTFS file system to be seen as whole volumes. Single Pro Tools audio files can­not exceed 3.4 GB in size.
Appendix E: Hard Drive Configuration and Maintenance 69
Seek Times on Partitioned Drives
Seek times are actually faster on partitioned drives (assuming that reads and writes are per­formed on a single partition), since the heads only have to seek within the partition boundar­ies, rather than the whole capacity of the drive.
Smaller partitions perform faster than larger par­titions, but this comes at the expense of contig­uous storage space. When you partition a drive, you will need to find the compromise that best suits your performance and storage require­ments.
Avoid distributing audio files within a ses­sion over different partitions on the same drive since this will adversely affect drive performance.

Defragmenting an Audio Drive

Mac Systems
When working with larger files (such as video), you can limit fragmentation by backing up your important files to another disk, erasing the files from the original hard disk, then copying the files back, instead of doing a defragmentation.
Window Systems
In multitrack recording, audio tracks are written in discrete files, spaced evenly across the disk. While fragmentation of individual files may be zero, the tracks may be far enough apart that playback will still be very seek-intensive. Also, the remaining free space on the disk will be dis­contiguous, increasing the likelihood of file fragmentation on subsequent record passes.
Increased fragmentation increases the chance of disk errors, which can interfere with playback of audio, and result in performance errors.
On Windows, to avoid fragmentation, format drives with higher cluster sizes (such as 32K).
Optimizing (Defragmenting) Drives
To prevent fragmentation, you can optimize your drive, which rearranges your files into a contiguous format. Most optimizing software lets you run a check on a drive to find out the percentage of fragmentation. If your drive shows moderate to heavy fragmentation, you should consider optimizing it.
If you use your system for intensive editing, or if you frequently delete audio or fade files from your hard drive, you may need to optimize your drives on a weekly basis, or even every few days, since it doesn’t take long for even a large hard drive to become fragmented.
Periodically defragment audio drives to maintain system performance.
For maximum recording and playback effi­ciency, data should be written to your hard drive in a contiguous fashion—minimizing the seek requirements to play back the data. Unfor­tunately, your computer can’t always store the sound files in this way and must write to disk wherever it can find space.
Mbox User Guide70
Backing Up Data Before Optimizing
Since your files will be rewritten by the optimi­zation process, always make a backup copy of the data on your hard drive before you optimize it. You should also use a hard drive utility to find and repair any problems before optimizing data or re-initializing your drives. If there is any dam­age to your hard drive's directories prior to opti­mizing, serious data loss may result.
Defragmenting Windows Audio Drives
To defragment an audio drive (Windows 7 and Windows Vista):
1 Click Start.
2 Type “disk defragmenter” in the search field at
the bottom. “Disk Defragmenter” should appear at the top of the search results.
3 Click the Disk Defragmenter.
4 Click the Defragment disk button (Windows 7)
or the Defragment now button (Windows Vista). Follow the on-screen instructions.
5 When defragmenting is complete, close the
Disk Defragmenter window.
In Windows 7 you can Ctrl-Click on the drive names to select multiple drives to de­fragment, and once more than one drive is selected, the button changes to “Defrag­ment disks.”
The “Defragment Now” (Vista only) com­mand defragments all your hard drives. This can take a lot of time, especially on systems with multiple drives.
Advanced users can use the command line tool Defrag.exe to defragment individual drives. See your Windows Vista documen­tation for more information.
5 When defragmenting is complete, close the
Computer Management window.

Using Mac Drives on Windows Systems

Pro Tools for Windows lets you record and play back sessions directly from a Mac-formatted (HFS+) drive connected to a Windows system. This functionality requires that all Mac session and audio files be stored on Mac-formatted drives.
During Pro Tools installation, make sure to se­lect the Mac HFS+ Disk Support option. This op­tion lets your Pro Tools system read, write, re­cord, and play back using Mac-formatted HFS+ disks.
For information on sharing sessions be­tween Mac and Windows systems, see the Pro Tools Reference Guide (Help > Pro Tools Reference Guide).
Formatting and Maintaining HFS+ Drives
To format and partition any drives as HFS+, con­nect the drives to a Mac computer and use the Apple OS X Disk Utility to format the drives as Mac OS Extended (Journaled).
To defragment an audio drive (Windows XP):
1 Right-click My Computer and choose Manage.
2 Under Storage, choose Disk Defragmenter.
3 In the Disk Defragmenter window, choose the
drive you want to defragment
4 Click the Defragment button and follow the
on-screen instructions.
Appendix E: Hard Drive Configuration and Maintenance 71

Hard Disk Storage Space

Mono audio tracks recorded with 16-bit resolution at 44.1 kHz (CD quality) require approximately 5 MB of hard disk space per minute. The same tracks recorded with 24-bit resolution require about
7.5 MB per minute.
Stereo audio tracks recorded with 16-bit resolution at 44.1 kHz (CD quality) require approximately 10 MB of hard disk space per minute. The same tracks recorded with 24-bit resolution require about 15 MB per minute.
Table 6 lists the required disk space for certain track numbers and track lengths, to help you estimate your hard disk usage.
Table 6. Required hard drive space for audio tracks (44.1 kHz and 48 kHz sessions shown)
Number of Tracks and Length 16-bit at
44.1 kHz
1 mono track, 1 minute 5 MB 5.5 MB 7.5 MB 8.2 MB
16-bit at
48 kHz
24-bit at
44.1 kHz
24-bit at
48 kHz
1 stereo track (or two mono tracks), 5 minutes
1 stereo track (or two mono tracks), 60 minutes
24 mono tracks, 5 minutes 600 MB 662 MB 900 MB 991 MB
24 mono tracks, 60 minutes 7 GB 7.8 GB 10.5 GB 11.6 GB
32 mono tracks, 5 minutes 800 MB 883 MB 1.2 GB 1.3 GB
32 mono tracks, 60 minutes 9.4 GB 10.4 GB 14 GB 15.4 GB
50 MB 55 MB 75 MB 83 MB
600 MB 662 MB 900 MB 991 MB
Mbox User Guide72
appendix f

Troubleshooting

Backing Up Your Work

It is highly recommended that you back up your work on a regular basis, and especially before making changes to your system configuration.
Backing Up Your Session Data
Back up your session and audio data frequently. There are a variety of media that are suited to back up projects of various sizes, from auto­mated tape backup systems to high-capacity op­tical drives, or to CD burners.
The best way to back up an entire session is to use the Save Copy In command. This command lets you save the session file and all of its associ­ated files to a new location.
You can also use the Auto Save Backup fea­ture (in the Operation Preferences page) to have Pro Tools automatically save backups of the session file while you work.
Backing Up Your System Configuration
After configuring your system and Pro Tools, you should save an image of your system drive using a backup utility such as Norton Ghost (Windows) or Bombich Carbon Copy Cloner (Mac). By doing this, you can quickly restore your system configuration and settings if you encounter any problems.

Common Issues

Pro Tools Won’t Launch
Problem
When you double-click the Pro Tools applica­tion or a Pro Tools session file, Pro Tools doesn’t launch, or displays an error message.
Possible Solutions
Check to be sure your computer has the re-
quired amount of RAM to launch Pro Tools. Visit www.avid.com/compatibility.
Try a complete restart. Turn off your audio in-
terfaces, computer peripherals and your com­puter, and then turn them on again in the proper sequence.
Appendix F: Troubleshooting 73
If you tried to launch Pro Tools by double-
clicking a Pro Tools session file, do the follow­ing:
• Close any error message.
• Double-click the Pro Tools application.
• In Pro Tools, choose File > Open Session to open the session.
Reinstall the Pro Tools application, using the
Pro Tools Installer disc.
Audio Interface Is Not Recognized
Problem
When you launch Pro Tools it does not recog­nize an audio interface, or a connected audio in­terface is not available.

Performance Factors

There are several conditions that may adversely affect the performance of Pro Tools. These in­clude:
Network Connections Close any network con­nections unless you are using them for network interchange of audio data.
Background Applications Any software utilities that run in the background or generate disk ac­tivity, such as virus protection, disk optimiza­tion, or file savers, should be turned off or re­moved.
Screen Savers Screen saver software should be completely disabled on your computer before running Pro Tools.
Possible Solutions
Turn off your computer and check to be sure
your cables are properly and securely connected to your computer and to your audio interface.
Verify that your Hardware Setup dialog set-
tings are correct.
Power Saver Features Some automatic power saver features, such as those that spin down the system hard drive, can affect Pro Tools perfor­mance. These features should be turned off.
Mbox User Guide74

Before You Call Avid Support

Register Your System
Register your purchase by following the instruc­tions on the Registration Information Card in­cluded with your system. By registering, you be­come eligible to receive the following:
• Technical support information
• Software update and upgrade notices
• Hardware warranty information
Gather Important Information
Avid wants to help you resolve problems as quickly and efficiently as possible. If you collect the following information before you contact Avid Support, it will make the diagnosis of your problem easier.
Pro Tools Software
• Pro Tools software version
• Plug-In versions
• Other Pro Tools software options or com­ponents
• Additional plug-ins from Avid Develop­ment Partners
Other Hardware
Refer to the manufacturer’s documentation for operational details.
The most common hardware additions include:
• 1394 (FireWire) cards for Windows systems (manufacturer, model)
• Video Capture cards (manufacturer, model)
To verify that your hardware is qualified for use with your Pro Tools system, visit:
www.avid.com/compatibility
System Information
Computer
• Make, model, processor speed
• Amount of system RAM
• Operating system (version of Windows or Mac OS)
• Any Drivers, Disk Utilities, or other system­related applications you may have installed
Pro Tools Hardware
• Type of cards, interfaces, or peripherals
Hard Drives
•Make, Model
•Drive size (GB)
• Drive speed (RPM)
• Drive type (SCSI, FireWire, IDE/ATA)
• Utility used to format the drive
• Number and size of partitions on the drive
Other Software
If you are using other audio or video applica­tions, refer to the manufacturer’s documenta­tion for operational details.
Make note of any other software that was run­ning when a problem occurred.
Diagnostic Information
Note any DAE errors or other error codes you en­counter. Additonally, note the ability to repro­duce the problem under different conditions, for example, with another session, or after changing settings (such as the Hardware Buffer Size).
Appendix F: Troubleshooting 75
Mbox User Guide76
appendix g

Resources

Whether you are new to Pro Tools or just start­ing out with your new system, we encourage you to read and utilize the many guides that Pro Tools provides. There are also useful online resources available, giving you everything from Pro Tools tips to Pro Tools answers.

About the Pro Tools Guides

In addition to any printed guides included with your system, PDF versions of the printed guides and many additional Pro Tools guides and Read Mes are installed automatically during Pro Tools installation (see “Documentation Installed Au­tomatically with Pro Tools” on page 78). The PDFs are located in the Digidesign/Documenta­tion folder on your local drive.
Printed copies of the Pro Tools Reference Guide and other guides in the Pro Tools guide set can be purchased separately from the Avid Store (http://shop.avid.com).
User Guide
This User Guide for your system gives you de­tailed instructions for setting up and configur­ing software and hardware for optimum perfor­mance.
Printed Intro to Pro Tools Guide
The printed Intro to Pro Tools has tutorials on us­ing Pro Tools (such as recording in a Pro Tools session, importing audio from a CD, and creat­ing an audio CD from a Pro Tools session).
Guides Accessible in Pro Tools
The main Pro Tools guides are accessible from the Pro Tools Help menu. (Choose Help, then se­lect a guide.)
These include:
• Pro Tools Shortcuts, provides a complete list of keyboard and Right-click shortcuts for Pro Tools.
• Audio Plug-Ins Guide, describes the audio plug­ins included with Pro Tools for both real-time and file-based audio processing as well as many other paid plug-in option offered from Avid.
• Pro Tools Menus Guide, covers all the Pro Tools on-screen menus.
• Pro Tools Reference Guide, explains Pro Tools software in extensive detail.
Appendix G: Resources 77
Documentation Installed Automatically with Pro Tools
When you install Pro Tools, you get useful PDF versions of many Pro Tools guides and Read Mes. This documentation can be found in the following locations:
Mac Applications/Digidesign/Documentation
Windows C:\Program Files\Digidesign\
Documentation
To view or print PDF guides, you can use Adobe Reader (recommended) or Apple Pre­view (Mac only).
Read Me Files
These contain late-breaking information and known issues pertaining to Pro Tools software and hardware configurations. Read Me files are installed in the Documentation folder when you install Pro Tools.
Helpful Online Resources
Once you get going, here are some helpful on­line resources:
• For questions about installation, visit Avid’s online Knowledge Base. Go to: http://www.avid.com/onlinesupport
• Get useful information, help, and tips from the worldwide community of Pro Tools users at the online User Conference. Go to: http://duc.avid.com
• If you can’t find your answer on the User Con­ference or the Knowledge Base, contact Avid email support. Go to: http://www.avid.com/support
Mbox User Guide78
appendix h

Compliance Information

Environmental Compliance

Disposal of Waste Equipment by Users in the European Union
This symbol on the product or its packaging indicates that this product must not be disposed of with other waste. Instead, it is your responsibility to dispose of your waste equipment by handing it over to a designated collection point for the recycling of waste electrical and electronic equipment. The separate collection and recycling of your waste equipment at the time of disposal will help conserve natural resources and ensure that it is recycled in a manner that protects human health and the environment. For more information about where you can drop off your waste equipment for recycling, please contact your local city recycling office or the dealer from whom you purchased the product.
Proposition 65 Warning
This product contains chemicals, including lead, known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling.
Perchlorate Notice
This product may contain a lithium coin battery. The State of California requires the following disclosure statement: “Perchlorate Material – special handling may apply, See www.dtsc.ca.gov/hazardouswaste/perchlorate.”
Recycling Notice
Appendix H: Compliance Information 79
EMC (Electromagnetic
Avid
Compliance)
Avid declares that this product complies with the following standards regulating emissions and immunity:
• FCC Part 15 Class B
• EN 55022 Class B
• EN 55204 Class B
• AS/NZS 3548 Class B
• CISPR 22 Class B
FCC Compliance for United States
Radio and Television Interference
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
We, Avid, 2001 Junipero Serra Boulevard Daly City, CA 94014-3886, USA 650-731-6300 declare under our sole responsibility that the product Mbox complies with Part 15 of FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
Australian Compliance
Canadian Compliance
This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003
Cet appareil numérique de la classe A est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada
CE Compliance
(EMC and Safety)
Avid is authorized to apply the CE (Conformité Europénne) mark on this compliant equipment thereby declaring conformity to EMC Directive 89/336/EEC and Low Voltage Directive 73/23/EEC.
Communication Statement
NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try and correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
• Reorient or locate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
Any modifications to the unit, unless expressly approved by Avid, could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.
Mbox User Guide80

Safety Compliance

War ning
Important Safety Instructions
1) Read these instructions.
2) Keep these instructions.
3) Heed all warnings.
4) Follow all instructions.
5) Do not use this equipment near water.
6) Clean only with dry cloth.
7) Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
8) Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other equipment (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
9) Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
10) Protect power cords from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the equipment.
11) Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
12) For products that are not rack-mountable: Use only with a cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by the manufacturer, or sold with the equipment. When a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/equipment combination to avoid injury from tip-over.
13) Unplug this equipment during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
14) Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the equipment has been damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the equipment, the equipment has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.
15) For products that are a Mains powered device: The equipment shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing and no objects filled with liquids (such as vases) shall be placed on the equipment.
Warning! To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this equipment to rain or moisture.
16) For products containing a lithium battery: CAUTION! Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only with the same or equivalent type.
17) The equipment shall be used at a maximum ambient temperature of 40° C.
Appendix H: Compliance Information 81
Mbox User Guide82

index

A
audio
digital connections 41
Audio MIDI Setup (AMS) (Macintosh) 59 authorizing Pro Tools LE
Mac 7 Windows 14
C
Cache Size 22 Clean Uninstall (Mac) 9 Clock Source 24
Internal setting 24 S/PDIF (digital) setting 24
CPU Usage Limit 19, 20
D
DAE Playback Buffer Size 21 DMA option (Windows), enabling 27 drive formatting
Mac 68 Windows 69
drive maintenance 67 drive requirements 3
E
Energy Saver (Mac), turning off 25
F
FireWire requirements 68
G
gain
headphones 32 input 31
H
hard drives
drive formats 67 FireWire requirements 68 formatting 68, 69 formatting (Mac) 68 IDE/ATA requirements 68 maintenance 67, 70 optimizing 70 partitioning 69 requirements 3 SCSI requirements 68 space requirements 72
Hardware Buffer Size 18 headphones
gain control 32 output 32, 33
I
I/O Setup
Windows 24
IDE/ATA requirements 68 Ignore Errors During Playback/Record option 20 indicators
peak level 31, 32 phantom power 32 USB connection 33
input and output connectors 34 inputs
analog 35 digital 34 gain 31 monitoring 33
installing Pro Tools LE
Mac 5 Windows 11
installing QuickTime (Windows) 13
Index 83
J
journaling (Mac), enabling 27
L
latency
Hardware Buffer Size 18
Pro Tools LE
capabilities 2 configuration (Windows) 18 installing (Mac) 5 installing (Windows) 11
Processor Scheduling performance (Windows) 30
M
Mbox
features 1
MIDI
connections 42 requirements 2 setup (Macintosh) 59 setup (Windows) 63
MIDI Studio Setup (MSS) (Windows) 63 Minimize Additional I/O Latency option 21 mono switch 33
N
network cards (Windows), disabling 29 network connections 74
O
optimizing hard drives 70 outputs
Monitor outputs 34
P
partitioning hard drives 69 Patch Select dialog
Macintosh 62 Windows 66
peak indicators 31, 32 phantom power 39
indicator 32 when to use 32, 39
Plug-In Streaming Buffer 23 Plug-In Streaming Buffer Size 22 plug-ins
multiprocessors 19
Pro Tools
demo session (Windows) 9, 15 removing (Windows) 9, 15
Q
QuickTime
installing (Windows) 13
R
recording
digital inputs 41
removing Pro Tools
Windows 9, 15
RTAS Processors setting 19
S
S/PDIF 34 Safe Uninstall (Mac) 9 Sample Rate 23 screen savers 74 SCSI requirements 68 Software Update (Mac), turning off 25 sources
analog 35 DI 35 digital 34 line 35 microphone 35 selecting 32
Spotlight indexing (Mac), disabling 26 Startup items (Windows), disabling 30 Stereo Width control 41, 42 system
optional optimizations (Windows) 29 recommended optimizations (Windows) 29 required optimizations (Windows) 27 shutting down 17 starting up 17
system optimization
Mac 25 Windows 29
Mbox 3 User Guide84
system settings
Cache Size 22 Clock Source 24 CPU Usage Limit 20 Hardware Buffer Size 18 I/O Setup 24 Plug-In Streaming Buffer 23 Plug-In Streaming Buffer Size 22 Sample Rate 23
T
technical support 4 TRS 38
U
uninstalling Pro Tools
Mac 9 Windows 15
USB connection indicator 33 User Account Control (UAC)
disabling 28
W
website 78
Index 85
Mbox 3 User Guide86
Avid
2001 Junipero Serra Boulevard Daly City, CA 94014-3886 USA
Technical Support (USA)
Visit the Online Support Center at www.avid.com/support
Product Information
For company and product information, visit us on the web at www.avid.com
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