DigiDesign C24 User Manual
C|24
Version 7.4
™
Legal Notices
This guide is copyrighted ©2008 by Digidesign, a division of
Avid Technology, Inc. (hereafter “Digidesign”), with all rights
reserved. Under copyright laws, this guide may not be
duplicated in whole or in part without the written consent of
Digidesign.
003, 003 Rack, 96 I/O, 96i I/O, 192 Digital I/O, 192 I/O,
888|24 I/O, 882|20 I/O, 1622 I/O, 24-Bit ADAT Bridge I/O,
AudioSuite, Avid, Avid DNA, Avid Mojo, Avid Unity, Avid Unity
ISIS, Avid Unity MediaNetwork, Avid Xpress, AVoption,
AVoption|V10, Beat Detective, Bruno, C|24, Command|8,
Control|24, D-Command, D-Control, D-Fi, D-fx, D-Show, DAE,
Digi 002, Digi 002 Rack, DigiBase, DigiDelivery, Digidesign,
Digidesign Audio Engine, Digidesign Intelligent Noise
Reduction, Digidesign TDM Bus, DigiDrive, DigiRack, DigiTest,
DigiTranslator, DINR, DV Toolkit, EditPack, Eleven, Impact,
Interplay, M-Audio, MachineControl, Maxim, Mbox,
MediaComposer, MIDI I/O, MIX, MultiShell, OMF, OMF
Interchange, PRE, ProControl, Pro Tools M-Powered, Pro Tools,
Pro Tools|HD, Pro Tools LE, QuickPunch, Reel Tape, Reso,
Reverb One, ReVibe, RM1, RM2, RTAS, Smack!,
SoundReplacer, Sound Designer II, Strike, Structure, SYNC
HD, SYNC I/O, Synchronic, TL Space, Velvet, X-Form, and
Xpand! are trademarks or registered trademarks of Digidesign
and/or Avid Technology, Inc. All other trademarks are the
property of their respective owners.
Product features, specifications, system requirements, and
availability are subject to change without notice.
PN 9106-58399-00 REV C 05/08
Comments or suggestions regarding our documentation?
email: techpubs@digidesign.com
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.
Communications & Safety Regulation Information
Compliance Statement
The model C|24 complies with the following standards
regulating interference and EMC:
• FCC Part 15 Class A
• EN55103 – 1, environment E4
• EN55103 – 2, environment E4
• AS/NZS 3548 Class A
•CISPR 22 Class A
Radio and Television Interference
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the
limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the
FCC Rules.
DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
We, Digidesign,
2001 Junipero Serra Blvd.
Daly City, California 94014-3886, USA
650-731-6100
declare under our sole responsibility that the product
C|24
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.
Communications Statement
NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply
with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to Part 15
of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference when the
equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This
equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency
energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the
instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio
communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential
area is likely to cause harmful interference in which case the
user will be required to correct the interference at his own
expense.
Changes or modifications to this product not authorized by
Digidesign, Inc., could void the Certification and negate your
authority to operate the product.
Canadian Compliance Statement:
This Class A digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES003
Cet appareil numérique de la classe A est conforme à la norme
NMB-003 du Canada
Australian Compliance
European Compliance
Safety Statement
This equipment has been tested to comply with USA and
Canadian safety certification in accordance with the
specifications of UL Standards: UL60065 7th /IEC 60065 7th
and Canadian CAN/CSA C22.2 60065:03. Digidesign Inc., has
been authorized to apply the appropriate UL & CUL mark on its
compliant equipment.
Warning
Important Safety Instructions
1) Read these instructions.
2) Keep these instructions.
3) Heed all warnings.
4) Follow all instructions.
5) Do not use this apparatus 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 apparatus (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 the power cord from being walked on or pinched
particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point
where they exit from the apparatus.
11) Only use attachments/accessories specified by the
manufacturer.
12) Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when
unused for long periods of time.
13) Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing
is required when the apparatus 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 apparatus, the apparatus
has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate
normally, or has been dropped.
Contents
Part I Introduction
Chapter 1. Welcome to C|24 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
C|24 Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
System Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Operational Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Mechanical Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Connection Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Digidesign Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
About This Guide. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
About www.digidesign.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Chapter 2. C|24 Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
C|24 Top Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
C|24 Back Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Part II Installation
Chapter 3. Installing and Configuring C|24 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Installing C|24 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Connecting Power to C|24 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Connecting C|24 to the Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Starting Up and Shutting Down a Pro Tools System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Configuring C|24 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Setting C|24 Preferences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Chapter 4. Audio Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Mic/Line/DI Preamplifiers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Line Submixer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Monitor Section. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Contents v
Chapter 5. Connecting Your Studio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Connection Examples for Stereo Monitoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Stereo Studio Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Connection Examples for Surround Monitoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
5.1 Surround Studio Connections. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Part III Reference
Chapter 6. C|24 Pro Tools Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Fader Section. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Global Automation Switches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Modifier Switches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Channel Bar. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Miscellaneous Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Transport and Navigation Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Meter Bridge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Chapter 7. C|24 Analog Audio Controls. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Monitor Section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Mic/Line/DI Preamplifier Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Line Submixer Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Part IV Applications
Chapter 8. Operating Views and Modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Console Views . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Channel Views . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Mic Pre View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82
Groups View. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
Window Configuration View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
Memory Location View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
Fader Display Modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86
Assign Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
C|24 Guidevi
Chapter 9. Working with C|24 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
Working with Sessions and Tracks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
Assigning Pro Tools Paths . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
Working with Pro Tools Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94
Recording. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
Navigating and Selecting in the Edit Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
Editing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
Controlling Track Display on C|24. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
Mixing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
Appendix A. C|24 Connector Pinouts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
Female DB-25 Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
XLR and TRS Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112
Appendix B. Utility Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
Entering and Exiting Utility Mode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
Preferences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116
System. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118
Auto Talkback. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120
Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121
Contents vii
C|24 Guideviii
Part I: Introduction
1
2
Chapter 1: Welcome to C|24
Welcome to C|24™, Digidesign’s 24-channel
control surface for Pro Tools®.
C|24 gives you hands-on access to nearly all of
the recording, routing, editing, and mixing
features of Pro Tools.
C|24 also provides analog audio features that
make it ideal for Pro Tools recording, monitoring, and studio communications.
C|24 Features
Control Features
• 24 channel strips, each with the following
controls:
• Touch-sensitive motorized fader
• Multi-function rotary encoder and switch
• Automation Mode selector
• Dedicated EQ and Dynamics switches
• Dedicated Insert and Send switches
• Dedicated Input and Rec Enable switches
• Channel Solo and Mute switches
• Channel Select switch
• Dual-row multi-function display
• Global Automation Mode and Enable controls
• Transport and Navigation controls
• Edit and Function controls
• Pro Tools window and Global control
switches
Analog Audio Features
• 16 microphone/line/DI preamplifiers with the
following features:
• Continuously variable input gain control
• Switchable high-pass filter
• Clip indicators
• Phantom power (in 2 groups of 8 channels)
• 8x2 submixer with the following features:
• 8 inputs with independent gain
controls
• Stereo mix output with master volume
control
• Switchable output to C|24 Monitor section
• 6-channel monitor section with the following
features:
• 2 (Main and Alt) Surround input sources
• 2 External Stereo input sources
• Main (5.1, LCRS, or Stereo) and Alt (Stereo)
monitor outputs with selector switch and
level control
• 2 channels of Cue output
• Headphone output with level control and
cue monitoring capability
• Talkback with built-in or external source
and level control
• Listenback with external input and level
control
Chapter 1: Welcome to C|24 3
System Requirements
Operational Requirements
C|24 requires the following system components:
• A Digidesign-qualified Pro Tools system
• An available Ethernet connection on the
host computer
For complete system requirements, visit the
Digidesign website (www.digidesign.com).
Compatibility Information
Digidesign can only assure compatibility and
provide support for hardware and software it has
tested and approved.
For a list of Digidesign-qualified computers, operating systems, and third-party devices, visit
the Digidesign website (www.digidesign.com).
Temperature and Ventilation
C|24 should be installed and operated in a climate-controlled environment, away from heat
sources, and with adequate ventilation.
C|24 should be operated at an ambient temperature that does not exceed 100 degrees F
(35 degrees C).
The back panel of the C|24 should be exposed to
ambient air. Blocking or partially blocking the
back panel of the C|24 may cause the unit to
malfunction and may void your warranty.
Water and Moisture
C|24 should be operated away from sources of
moisture or humidity and should be kept clear
of liquids that might spill into the unit.
Cleaning and Maintenance
If you need to clean the C|24 top surface, apply
a small amount of water to a cloth or paper
towel, then carefully wipe the surface.
Do not use abrasives, cleaning solutions, or
spray cleaners.
C|24 Guide4
Mechanical Specifications
12.5 in
(31.8 cm)
17.3 in
(43.9 cm)
25.6 in
(65.1 cm)
2.56 in
(6.5 cm)
3.86 in
(9.8 cm)
39.4 in
(100 cm)
7.3 in
(18.5 cm)
0.45 in
(1.16 cm)
0.79 in
(2 cm)
C|24 side dimensions
C|24 back dimensions
Chapter 1: Welcome to C|24 5
40.9 in
(104 cm)
29.8 in
(75.7 cm)
C|24 top dimensions
C|24 Guide6
Connection Requirements
Power Connections
C|24 includes an external power supply that is
auto power-selecting (90-250V, 50-60 Hz) and
will work automatically when plugged into an
AC power receptacle in any country.
Make sure your power source is correctly rated
for all of the components of your system. A
surge-protected power source (not included) is
highly recommended.
Audio Connections
The analog audio inputs and outputs for the
mic/line/DI preamplifiers and the monitoring
section, and the inputs for the built-in submixer
on C|24 are DB-25 connectors.
Four alternate connectors for DI inputs, alter-
nate (stereo) outputs for the monitoring section,
and the outputs for the built-in submixer on
C|24 are 1/4-inch connectors.
For more information on audio connections, see
Appendix A, “C|24 Connector Pinouts.”
Audio Cables for C|24 Monitoring
Ethernet Connections
C|24 communicates with Pro Tools using
Ethernet.
If C|24 is the only Ethernet device you are us-
ing with your computer, you can connect it directly to the Ethernet port on the computer.
If you are using other Ethernet devices (such
as a connection to a Local Area Network) in addition to C|24, an Ethernet hub (not included) is
required.
Digidesign offers a range of DigiSnake cabling
options for connecting Digidesign interfaces
and external sources to the C|24.
For more information on DigiSnake audio
cables, visit the Digidesign website
(www.digidesign.com).
Digidesign Registration
Review the enclosed Digidesign Registration Information Card and follow the instructions on it
to quickly register your purchase online. Registering your purchase is the only way you can be
eligible to receive complimentary technical support and future upgrade offers. It is one of the
most important steps you can take as a new user.
Chapter 1: Welcome to C|24 7
About This Guide
About www.digidesign.com
This guide explains how to install and make
connections to your C|24, and how to use it to
access Pro Tools features and commands.
For complete information on using Pro Tools
software, refer to the guides included with your
Pro Tools system.
Conventions Used in This Guide
Digidesign 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
and press the
Control-click Hold down the Control key
and click the mouse button
Right-click Click with the right mouse
button
The following symbols are used to highlight important information:
N key
The Digidesign website (www.digidesign.com) is
your best 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.
Registration Register your purchase online. See
the enclosed Digidesign Registration Information Card for instructions.
Support Contact Digidesign Technical Support
or Customer Service; download software updates and the latest online manuals; browse the
Compatibility documents for system requirements; search the online Answerbase; join the
worldwide Pro Tools community on the Digidesign User Conference.
Training and Education Become a certified
Pro Tools Operator or Expert; 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 Digidesign
products; download demo software; learn about
our Development Partners and their plug-ins,
applications, and hardware.
User Tips are helpful hints for getting the
most from your system.
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 Digidesign guides.
C|24 Guide8
News and Events Get the latest news from
Digidesign; sign up for a Pro Tools demo.
To learn more about these and other resources
available from Digidesign, visit the Digidesign
website (www.digidesign.com).
Chapter 2: C|24 Overview
Meter Bridge
Monitor
section
Transport and
Navigation
controls
Fader section
Mic/Line/DI Preamplifier controls Line Submixer
Miscellaneous
controls
Auto Enable
switches
Channel Bar
Modifier
switches
LCD displays
Rotary Encoders
Auto Mode
switches
Auto Write To
switches
C|24 Top Panel
Figure 1. C|24 top panel
Chapter 2: C|24 Overview 9
Meter Bridge
Transport and Navigation Controls
The Meter Bridge features a six-channel output
meter, 24 pairs of channel meters, a Pro Tools
Main Counter display, and a built-in Talkback
microphone.
Mic/Line/DI Preamplifier Controls
C|24 includes 16 analog Mic/Line preamplifiers,
with phantom power capability and a switchable high-pass filter. Four channels have available 1/4-inch inputs connectors that override
the DB-25 inputs.
Line Submixer
C|24 also includes an analog line submixer with
8 stereo inputs and a stereo output that can be
used to integrate analog studio equipment into
your studio. The external output of the submixer can be can be routed to a Pro Tools audio
interface. Line submixer output can also be
routed internally to the Monitoring section.
Monitor Section
The Control Room Monitor section provides
two selectable input sources, Main and Alt (both
supporting up to 5.1 Surround); and two selectable outputs, Main (supporting 5.1, LCRS or Stereo monitoring modes) and Alt (supporting Stereo monitoring only). It also provides Cue mix
output, Studio LS output, and full Talkback and
Listenback capability to facilitate studio communication.
Miscellaneous Controls
C|24 provides one-touch access to Pro Tools Edit
modes, Edit tools, MIDI commands and operations, Pro Tools windows, Groups, Memory Locations, Window Configurations, and a range of
powerful global controls that let you apply operations to multiple tracks.
C|24 gives you full control of Pro Tools transport functions with one-touch access to a range
of audition functions, plus dedicated switches
for multiple playback and recording modes. The
Scrub /Shuttle wheel and Navigation key quadrant allow quick navigation in Pro Tools.
Channel Bar
The Channel Bar provides powerful controls for
viewing, assigning, and editing Inputs, Outputs,
Inserts, Sends, Pan controls, plug-in parameters,
Digidesign PRE settings, and C|24 settings.
LCD Displays
Three multi-purpose 55x2 LCD displays provide
access to a range of track information, Channel
Bar functions, Soft Key commands, and C|24
settings.
Rotary Encoders
Twenty-four multi-purpose rotary encoders let
you view and control volume and pan values,
edit plug-in parameters, and make assignments.
Automation Controls
C|24 includes dedicated controls for setting the
automation mode of individual channels, for
enabling and suspending automation types, and
setting the global automation mode.
Fader Section
Twenty-four 100mm touch-sensitive, motorized
faders allow precise control and automation of
track volume. Flip mode lets you control additional Pro Tools parameters from the faders.
C|24 Guide10
C|24 Back Panel
Monitor section
Submixer section
Preamps 9-16 section
Preamps 1-8 section
Footswitch
connectors
Ethernet
connector
Power Supply
connector
Ext Talk Mic
connector
Listen Mic
connector
Figure 2. C|24 back panel
Submixer Section
Two DB-25 female connectors allow connection
of a total of 16 channels (8 stereo inputs). Stereo
output is available on 1/4-inch TRS connectors.
Preamp Sections
Each of the two 8-channel preamp sections has
two DB-25 female connectors that provide separate, switchable Mic and Line inputs, plus two
alternate 1/4-inch TRS connectors. A third
DB-25 connector in each section provides
preamp outputs.
Monitor Section
Five DB-25 female connectors allow connection
of two six-channel inputs, two stereo inputs,
and a pair of cue inputs. Outputs include a sixchannel Main output, stereo Alt Output (also
available on 1/4-inch TRS connectors), stereo LS
and Cue outputs, and a Talkback Slate output.
Listen Mic and External Talkback Mic
Connectors
Two XLR microphone connectors allow connection of a Listenback microphone and an optional external Talkback microphone.
Footswitch Connectors
Two 1/4-inch TRS footswitch connectors can be
assigned independently to control Pro Tools recording punch in/out, Pro Tools transport
start/stop, or C|24 talkback on/off.
Ethernet Connector
C|24 communicates with Pro Tools using
Ethernet. This connection uses a standard RJ45
connector.
Power Supply Connector
C|24 comes with a dedicated external power
supply that connects to this port.
Chapter 2: C|24 Overview 11
C|24 Guide12
Part II: Installation
13
14
Chapter 3: Installing and Configuring C|24
Installing C|24
C|24 can be set on a level table top or mounted
in a console or desk.
Wherever you install C|24, make sure not to
block air circulation to the vents on the back of
the unit.
Connecting Power to C|24
C|24 comes with a dedicated external power
supply that has an IEC standard AC receptacle.
This connector accepts a standard AC power
cable.
To connect power to C|24:
1 Connect the external power supply to the
connector marked “To Ext PSU” on the back
panel of C|24. Make sure the connector is oriented correctly before securing the connection.
2 Connect the included AC power cord to the
external power supply.
Connecting C|24 to the Computer
C|24 communicates with Pro Tools using
Ethernet. This connection uses a standard RJ45
connector.
If you are connecting C|24 directly to your
computer, use a crossover Ethernet cable (one is
included with C|24).
If you are connecting C|24 to an Ethernet hub
or network, use a standard Ethernet cable (not
included).
If C|24 will be the only Ethernet device connected
to your computer:
1 Connect one end of the included crossover
Ethernet cable to the Ethernet port on the back
panel of C|24.
2 Connect the other end of the crossover Ether-
net cable to the appropriate Ethernet port on the
computer.
3 Connect the other end of the AC power cord
to a power source.
Chapter 3: Installing and Configuring C|24 15
If you have more than one Ethernet device in
addition to C|24:
1 Connect one end of a standard Ethernet cable
(not included) to the Ethernet port on the back
panel of C|24.
2 Connect the other end of the Ethernet cable
to a powered Ethernet hub (do not use any port
labeled for LAN connection).
3 Connect the Ethernet hub to the appropriate
Ethernet port on the computer.
Shut down your system in this order:
1 Turn off monitor amplifiers or self-powered
speakers.
2 Turn off all Pro Tools audio interfaces.
3 Shut down the computer.
4 If you are using MIDI equipment, turn off
MIDI interfaces and other MIDI devices.
5 Turn off the C|24.
6 Turn off external hard drives.
Starting Up and Shutting Down a Pro Tools System
Your C|24-based Pro Tools system should be
started up and shut down in a specific order.
Start your system in this order:
1 Turn on external hard drives first. Wait 10 to
15 seconds for them to come up to speed.
2 Turn on the C|24.
3 If you plan to work with MIDI equipment,
turn on MIDI interfaces and other MIDI devices.
4 Turn on all Pro Tools audio interfaces.
5 Turn on the computer.
6 Turn on monitor amplifiers or self-powered
speakers.
Configuring C|24
All C|24 software is included when Pro Tools
software is installed. The Pro Tools installer
places the C|24 Personality file in the Controllers folder inside the Pro Tools folder.
Refer to the Getting Started Guide that came with
your system for instructions on installing or updating Pro Tools software.
Updating System Firmware
Each release of Pro Tools software includes current C|24 firmware. When you declare a C|24
unit in the Pro Tools Peripherals dialog,
Pro Tools prompts you if a firmware update is
available.
If you are prompted to update firmware, follow
the on-screen instructions to load the latest
firmware to the C|24.
C|24 Guide16
Establishing Communication
Between C|24 and Pro Tools
Communication between C|24 and Pro Tools is
configured by declaring the unit in Pro Tools.
To declare C|24 in Pro Tools:
1 Choose Setup > Peripherals, and click Ethernet
Controllers.
Ethernet Controllers page in the Peripheral dialog
2 Select Enable. Pro Tools scans the Ethernet
connection for any Ethernet controllers connected to the system.
Naming C|24
You can set a name for a C|24 unit so that it can
be easily identified on a network shared with
other Ethernet controllers. You can name C|24
from Pro Tools, or directly from the unit in
Utility Mode.
To name C|24 in Pro Tools:
1 Choose Setup > Peripherals, and click Ethernet
Controllers.
2 Click Name Units. Any declared controllers
will appear in the Ethernet Controller Units
window.
3 Select the C|24 from the pop-up menu for
Controller #1.
If you are connected to a network, any Ethernet
controllers available on the network will be displayed in the pop-up menu, as follows:
Bold text indicates a connected unit.
Italic text indicates an offline or disconnected
unit.
Dimmed text indicates that the selected unit
is in use by another Pro Tools system.
4 Click OK to close the Peripherals dialog.
When communication is established, Pro Tools
displays colored outlines identifying the tracks
focused on C|24.
Naming the C|24
3 Enter the name for the C|24 and click OK.
4 For information on naming C|24 from the
unit, see “Unit Name” on page 118.
Chapter 3: Installing and Configuring C|24 17
Using Additional Control Surfaces
with C|24
When a C|24 is declared in Pro Tools, the use of
additional control surfaces is subject to the following restrictions:
You can use a MIDI-based control surface
(such as a Digidesign Command|8) or another
MIDI-based controller (such as the Digidesign
Surround Panner Option) at the same time as a
C|24. A MIDI control surface will mirror the first
8 channels on C|24.
You cannot use another Ethernet-based con-
trol surface (such as an ICON worksurface, Control|24, or ProControl) at the same time as a
C|24.
You cannot declare more than one C|24 on a
Pro Tools system at a time.
Setting C|24 Preferences
The following operational preferences for C|24
are set from the unit, not from Pro Tools.
Auto Talkback
You can enable Auto Talkback, which automatically turns on the Talkback and Listen microphones when the Pro Tools Transport is
stopped. See “Auto Talkback” on page 120.
Mic Pre Clip Hold Time
You can set the Clip Hold time for the C|24
built-in mic/line/DI preamplifiers. See “Mic Pre
Clip Hold” on page 117.
Footswitch Function
You can set the function and polarity for the
two Footswitch connectors on C|24. See “Footswitch Function and Polarity” on page 117.
Console Preferences
You can set the behavior of C|24 displays and
controls and how they interact with Pro Tools.
See “Console Preferences” on page 47.
External Talkback Microphone
You can choose to use an external Talkback microphone instead of the built-in Talkback microphone in the C|24 Meter Bridge. See “External
Talkback Microphone” on page 116.
Talkback Latching
You can set Talkback to latch on when the Talkback switch is double-pressed. See “Talkback
Latching” on page 116.
C|24 Guide18
Chapter 4: Audio Connections
C|24 offers versatile analog audio features for
routing audio to and from Pro Tools and other
audio equipment in your studio.
The Mic/Line/DI preamplifiers, built-in Line
Submixer, and Monitor section operate independently of Pro Tools and can be used whenever C|24 is powered on.
Mic/Line/DI Preamplifiers
C|24 provides 16 Mic/Line/DI preamplifiers that
can be used to route input signals to a Pro Tools
audio interface for recording. The Mic/Line/DI
inputs and outputs appear on the C|24 back
panel in six DB-25 connectors.
Audio connectors for the built-in Mic/Line/DI
preamplifiers, Submixer, and Monitor section
are provided on the back panel of C|24.
This chapter provides a summary of the available audio connections to C|24. For detailed pinout tables, see Appendix A, “C|24 Connector
Pinouts.” For example studio connections, see
Chapter 5, “Connecting Your Studio.”
The Mic/Line/DI preamplifiers operate independently of Pro Tools and can be used whenever
C|24 is powered on.
Mic/Line/DI Preamp Inputs
Mic/Line Inputs C|24 Mic/Line/DI preamplifier
inputs appear in two groups of 8 balanced inputs (1-8, 9-16) on the back panel. Each group of
inputs has separate DB-25 female connectors for
mic level and line level inputs, labeled as follows:
•Mic In 1-8
•Line/DI In 1-8
•Mic In 9-16
•Line/DI In 9-16
The input source (Mic or Line) can be selected
individually for each channel using the
Mic/Line/DI preamplifier controls on the top
panel of C|24.
Chapter 4: Audio Connections 19
Alternate 1/4-inch connectors C|24 input channels 1, 2, 9, and 10 also have alternate 1/4-inch
balanced TRS connectors on the back panel, labeled as follows:
•DI 1
•DI 2
•DI 9
•DI 10
Line In 1-8
Channel Signal
1 Line In 1
2 Line In 2
3 Line In 3
4 Line In 4
When a source is plugged into a DI input
(1, 2, 9, or 10), the corresponding Mic/Line input (1,2,9,or10) becomes unavailable.
Mic/Line/DI preamplifier inputs are shown in
the following tables.
Mic In 1-8
Channel Signal
1Mic In 1
2Mic In 2
3Mic In 3
4Mic In 4
5Mic In 5
6Mic In 6
7Mic In 7
8Mic In 8
5 Line In 5
6 Line In 6
7 Line In 7
8 Line In 8
DI In 1-2 (overrides Mic/Line In 1-2)
Channel Signal
1 Line In 1
2 Line In 2
Mic In 9-16
Channel Signal
1Mic In 9
2Mic In 10
3Mic In 11
4Mic In 12
5Mic In 13
6Mic In 14
7Mic In 15
8Mic In 16
C|24 Guide20
Line In 9-16
Channel Signal
1 Line In 9
2 Line In 10
3 Line In 11
4 Line In 12
5 Line In 13
6 Line In 14
7 Line In 15
8 Line In 16
DI In 9-10 (overrides Mic/Line In 9-10)
Channel Signal
1 Line In 9
2 Line In 10
Line Outputs
Line Out 1-8
Channel Signal
1Line Out 1
2Line Out 2
3Line Out 3
4Line Out 4
5Line Out 5
6Line Out 6
7Line Out 7
8Line Out 8
Line Out 9-16
Channel Signal
1Line Out 9
2Line Out 10
Mic/Line/DI Preamp Outputs
C|24 Mic/Line/DI preamplifier outputs appear
in two groups of 8 line-level outputs (1-8, 9-16)
on the back panel. Each group of outputs has a
DB-25 female connector, labeled as follows:
•Line Out 1-8
• Line Out 9-16
Mic/Line/DI preamplifier outputs are shown in
the following tables.
3Line Out 11
4Line Out 12
5Line Out 13
6Line Out 14
7Line Out 15
8Line Out 16
Chapter 4: Audio Connections 21
Line Submixer
C|24 provides an 8x2 Line Submixer that can be
used to mix instrument inputs, auxiliary returns, or other external sources to stereo.
The output of the Line Submixer can then be
connected to Pro Tools audio interface inputs
for recording, or it can be monitored through
the Monitor section of C|24.
Submix In 5-8
Channel Signal
1 Submixer Input 5 (Left)
2 Submixer Input 5 (Right)
3 Submixer Input 6 (Left)
4 Submixer Input 6 (Right)
5 Submixer Input 7 (Left)
The built-in Line Submixer operates independently of Pro Tools and can be used whenever
C|24 is powered on.
Line Submixer Inputs
C|24 Line Submixer inputs appear as two groups
of 4 stereo inputs (1-4, 5-8) on the back panel.
Each group of stereo inputs has a DB-25 female
connector, labeled as follows:
• Submix In 1-4 (ST)
• Submix In 5-8 (ST)
Each of the 8 submixer inputs has an independent gain control on the top panel.
Line Submixer input connections are shown in
the following tables.
Submix In 1-4
Channel Signal
1 Submixer Input 1 (Left)
2 Submixer Input 1 (Right)
3 Submixer Input 2 (Left)
4 Submixer Input 2 (Right)
5 Submixer Input 3 (Left)
6 Submixer Input 3 (Right)
6 Submixer Input 7 (Right)
7 Submixer Input 8 (Left)
8 Submixer Input 8 (Right)
Line Submixer Outputs
Stereo Outputs C|24 Line Submixer outputs appear as a pair of line-level outputs (L-R) on the
back panel. Each output has a 1/4-inch balanced
TRS connector, labeled as follows:
•Submix Out L
•Submix Out R
Submix Out 1-2
Channel Signal
1 Submix Out (Left)
2Submix Out (Right)
Stereo Output to Monitor Section C|24 Submixer outputs (L-R) can also be routed to the
Left and Right channels of the C|24 Monitor section using the “To Mon” switch on the top
panel of C|24. This is useful for monitoring your
studio equipment when you are not running
Pro Tools.
The submixer output level is controlled with the
Master level control on the top panel.
7 Submixer Input 4 (Left)
8 Submixer Input 4 (Right)
C|24 Guide22
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