Lucid ADA8824 User Manual

ADA8824

A/D - D/A Platform

(ADAT Interface)

User’s Guide

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Section 1 Introduction 1
Section 2 Operator Safety Summary 2
Section 3 About the ADA8824 (ADAT) 4
Section 4 Setup (Connections & Settings) 5
Section 5 Product Description

Front Panel Overview 10
Rear Panel Overview 11

Section 6 Using the ADA8824 14
Section 7 Applications & Configurations

Digital Audio Workstation 18
Multitrack Recording 19
A/D-D/A Converter with ADAT Optical I/O 19
A/D-D/A Converter, No ADAT Optical I/O 20
Digital I/O to ADAT Optical I/O 21
Syncing Two Units 22

Section 8 MIDI Implementation Chart 24
Section 9 Block Diagram 25
Section 10 ADA8824 (ADAT) Specifications 26
Section 11 Warranty & Service 28
Section 12 Declaration of Conformity 29

Rev A.0, June 1, 1999
Lucid part number 53ADAT1A00
Specifications subject to change without notice.
©1999 Lucid.. All rights reserved.
Lucid is a registered trademark of Symetrix, Inc.
Mention of third-party products is for informational purposes

only and constitutes neither an endorsement nor a recommenda­tion. Lucid assumes no responsibility with regard to
the performance or use of these products.

Under copyright laws, no part of this manual may be reproduced or
transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical,
including photocopying, scanning, recording or by any information
storage and retrieval system, without permission, in writing, from
Lucid.

Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043 USA

Email: [e-mail]

Website: www.lucidaudio.com

6408 216th St. SW

Tel: [phone]

Fax: [phone]

Lucid

INTRODUCTION SECTION 1

The Lucid ADA8824 (ADA T) Audio I nterface is an eight-channel, 24-bit, A/D and D/A converter
intended for use with digital audio workstations. [F or clarity the ADA8824 (ADAT) will be referred
to as the 8824 throughout the rest of this user’s guide.] The 8824 pro vides ADAT lightpipe connec­tions, eight analog I/O channels, and eight AES/EBU digital I/O channels.

Designed specifically for Alesis lightpipe (fiber-optic) connections, the 8824 provides a plug and play
audio interface between your studio ’s audio gear and the Apple Macintosh or Windows computers.
Created in a strategic partnership with Alesis Corporation, the 8824 delivers the flexibility and
performance you need for leading-edge audio production by providing eight channel digital transfers at
24-bit resolution. Digitally controlled attenuation of analog input and output levels and high-resolu­tion LED metering help you realize the maximum dynamic range from your digital audio system.

Alesis pioneered the use of fiber-optic connections for digital audio transfer through its proprietary
format. The Alesis PCR car d works on Macintosh and Windo ws computers and is compatible with
products from a wide range of vendors. The gr owing popularity of ADAT -equipped gear and the
introduction of the 8824 make it even easier for you to stay in the digital domain throughout most of
the production process.

The 8824’ s analog I/O channels are equipped with XLR connectors, which accept or deliv er either
balanced or unbalanced signals. The AES/EBU digital I/O channels use XLR connectors and the
lightpipe connections use T OSLINK connectors. The 8824 operates at +4dBu, -10dBV, and
intermediate signal levels.

We recommend that you read this manual from co ver to co ver. Somewhere between the confines of
the two covers you should find the answers to most of your questions, both technical as well as
musical. Please feel free to contact us if you have questions, comments or suggestions.

Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]

76853421

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TECHNOLOGY

ADAT OPTICAL

CONFIGURATION

REFER TO USER’S GUIDE

INPUT OUTPUT

FOR OPTIONS

8

74 5621 3

8

6745231

50Hz-60Hz AC INPUT 40 WATTS MAX.

CAUTION: FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST

ADA8824

RISK OF FIRE, REPLACE ONLY WITH SAME TYPE FUSE.

ADAT
SYNC

IN

INPUT OUT/THRU

115V

OUT

MIDI

WORD CLOCK

OUT/THRU

S/P DIF

INPUTINPUT

OUTPUT

44.1 kHz

48 kHz

WORD CLK

AES/EBU

AES/EBU DIGITAL INPUTS

AES/EBU DIGITAL OUTPUTS

5-6 3-4 1-27-8

-3

-6 -6

-9

-12

-15

-18 -18

-21

-24

-27

-30

-50

0000

-1

-1-3-1

-1

-3

-6

-9

-9

-12

-12

-15

-15

-21

-21

-24

-24

-27

-27

-30

-30

-40

-40-40

-50

-50

1-23-45-67-8

-3

-6

-9

-12

-15

-18-18

-21

-24

-27

-30

-40

-50

-60-60 -60 -60

-1

-3-1-3

-6 -6

-9

-9

-12

-12

-15

-15

-18 -18 -18

-21

-21

-24

-24

-27

-27

-30

-30

-40

-40

-50

-50

-60 -60 -60

METERINGSYNC

-1

-3

-6

ANALOG IN

-9

-12

-15

DIGITAL IN

-21

-24

ANALOG OUT

-27

-30

-40

DIGITAL OUT

-50

24-BIT I/O

ADAT OPTICAL INTERFACE

ANALOG INPUTS

ANALOG OUTPUTS

ADA

8824

1

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1

OPERATOR SAFETY SUMMARY

N

.

SECTION 2

Equipment Markings

The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol within an
equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user of the presence
of uninsulated "dangerous voltage" within the product's

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a
risk of electric shock to persons.

WARNING:

The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is
intended to alert the user of the presence of important
operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the

SEE OWNERS MANUAL. VOIR CAHIER D’INSTRUCTIONS.

o user serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified service personnel

Il ne se trouve a l’interieur aucune piece pourvant entre reparée l’usager.

literature accompanying the product (i.e. this manual).

Caution To prevent electric shock, do not use the polarized plug supplied with the unit with any extension cord, receptacle, or other

outlet unless the blades can be fully inserted.

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR
ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT EXPOSE
THIS EQUIPMENT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE

RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE

AVIS:

NE PAS OUVRIR

S’adresser a un reparateur compétent.

Terms

Several notational conventions are used in this manual. Some paragraphs may use Note, Caution, or
Warning as a heading or certain typefaces and capitalization are used to identify certain words. These are:

Note Identifies information that needs extra emphasis. A Note generally supplies extra information to help you

to better use the product.

Caution Identifies information that, if not heeded, may cause damage to the Lucid product or other equipment in your system.

Warning Identifies information that, if ignored, may be hazardous to your health or that of others.

CAPITALS Controls, switches or other markings on the product's chassis.

Important Safety Instructions

Please read and keep these instructions. Heed and follow all warnings and instructions.

Mains Voltage Selection The Line Voltage selector switch is located near the IEC power inlet

connector . Set it to correspond to the nominal A C mains voltage
used in your studio. The amperage of the fuse changes depending on
the setting of the Line Voltage selector switch. (Y ou must change the
fuse to correspond with the new amperage.)

The fuse ratings are listed later in this section.

Power Source This product is intended to operate from a power source that does

not apply more than 250V rms between the power supply conductors
or between either power supply conductor and ground. A protective
ground connection, by way of the grounding conductor in the power
cord, is essential for safe operation.

Grounding The chassis of this product is grounded through the grounding

conductor of the power cord. To avoid electric shock, plug the power
cord into a properly wired receptacle before making any connections to

2

the product. A protective ground connection, by way of the grounding
conductor in the power cord, is essential for safe operation. Do not
defeat the safety purpose of the grounding plug. The grounding plug
has two blades and a third grounding prong. The third prong is pr ovided
for your safety. When the provided plug does not fit your outlet, consult
an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.

Danger from If the protective ground connection is lost, all accessible conductive
Loss of Ground parts, including knobs and controls that may appear to be insulated,

can render an electric shock.

Proper Power Cord Use only the power cord and connector specified for the product and

your operating locale. Use only a cord that is in good condition. Protect
the power cord from being walked on or pinched, particularly at plugs,
convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.

Proper Fuse The user accessible fuse is a part of the IEC AC inlet connector . The

fuseholder accepts 5 x 20mm diameter fuses.
For 117VAC operation, the correct value is 1/2A, 250VAC, slow
blowing (Bussman type GDC-500MA).
For 230VAC operation, the correct value is 1/4A, 250VAC, slow blowing
(Bussman type GDC-250MA).

Operating Location Do not operate this equipment under any of the following conditions:

explosive atmospheres, in wet locations, in inclement weather , improper
or unknown AC mains voltage, or if improperly fused. Do not install
near any heat source such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other
apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat. Unplug this apparatus
during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.

Stay Out of the Box To avoid personal injury (or worse), do not remove the product covers or

panels. Do not operate the product without the covers and panels
properly installed. Only use accessories specified by the manufacturer .

Clean only with a damp cloth.

User-serviceable parts There are no user serviceable parts inside the ADA8824. In case of

failure, refer all servicing to the factory . Servicing is required when the
ADA8824 has been damaged in any way , such as when a pow er 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 dr opped.

3

ABOUT THE ADA8824 (ADAT) SECTION 3

In its principal application, the 8824 connects the external world (analog and digital) of your
studio with your computer using the ADAT lightpipe multichannel interface. In this setup you
will also need a suitable computer (Wintel PC or Apple Macintosh) and a suitable interface card.
Suitable cards are made b y Alesis, Sonorus, Korg, Mark of the Unicorn (2408 system),
MIDIMAN and others.

There are many reasons for using an external interface device rather than an all-in-one card that
positions converters inside your computer . S ome of these reasons ar e:

· From an audio signal ’s point of view, the inside of your computer is a nasty environment,
both noisy and plagued by RF. Using the 8824 r emoves the critical steps of A/D and D/A
conversion from this noise-prone box and allows them to take place in an environment
more conducive to high performance, 24-bit conversion.

· Quite often, connecting the computer’s ground system into your audio ground system
causes hum. The lightpipe interface pro vides complete isolation between the computer’s
ground system and your audio system; each system ’s grounding is totally separate and isolated.

· There isn’t nearly enough room on the interface card’ s mounting bracket to house suitable
connectors. The r ear panel of the 8824 has enough space to house a full complement of
the connectors that you already use in your audio system.

For all of these r easons, w e think that the 8824 is the best solution for getting analog and digital
signals into your ADA T lightpipe equipped computer.

Your studio may or may not utilize any Alesis ADAT modular digital multitrack (MDM)
machines. If you use ADAT MDM’s, the 8824 may be used to improve the quality of your audio
conversion and dynamic range. However, you may wish to continue using the machine’s internal
A/D converters rather than the 8824, and your decision will most likely depend on which MDM
you use. The 8824 has no dither capability, so using the 8824 instead of the MDM’s internal
converters may cause audible truncation when using 16-bit MDM’ s. Losing these bits won’t cause
the end of the world, or damage to anything, and you might even find the trade-off in dynamic
range to be worthwhile. The degr ee of truncation you experience will depend on the converter
resolution of your specific MDM.

4

ECTION 4

SETUP (CONNECTIONS & SETTINGS)

S

This section discusses a multitude of things, all related to getting signals in and out of the 8824
and getting on with using it.

ADAT Sync Connections

These connectors allow sending and receiving ADAT -specific information between daisy-chained
ADAT machines or other hardware capable of sending or receiving ADAT Sync. The ADAT sync
cable carries machine control, word clock, and timecode signals. These connectors, or the MIDI
connectors, may be used for controlling the 8824. The only signal in the ADAT sync connection
that matters to the 8824 is the machine control signal.

Note If you are using the 8824 with the Alesis PCR card, the 8824 must be the first device

connected after the PCR card. Doing so ensures that the 8824 can always receive
commands (ADAT machines do not always pass ADAT Sync information through
themselves.)

Lightpipe Connections

The lightpipe connectors accept T OSLINK fiber-optic cables. There are two such connectors; one
for input, one for output. The optical signal at these connectors r epresents all eight channels.
Connect the lightpipe connectors to and from your computer’s lightpipe interface card. Ther e is
no provision within the unit to operate the lightpipe connectors in thru mode.

MIDI Connections

The MIDI connectors receive or send MIDI data. These connectors, or the ADAT Sync
connectors, may be used for controlling the 8824.

Note If you use the MIDI connectors, it is preferable to use a separate MIDI port on your

computer (i.e. one that depends on a different IR Q than the lightpipe interface).

Analog I/O Connections

It is not necessary to connect to any or all of these connectors at any given time. The connectors
used or not used depend on your specific application. In most situations, connect the sources and
destinations that you do have to the 8824. You can then use it as a ‘router’ to patch your sources,
destinations, and the computer workstation software together .

Connect your analog sources to the rear-panel analog input connectors. These connectors may be
driven from a balanced or unbalanced, low-impedance source. When using an unbalanced source,
the preferred connection method is to bring all three input connections through to the unbal­anced source, tying the shield to the source ground, pin 2/hot to the source hot, and pin3/cold to
the source ground.

5

Connect the analog outputs as required in your studio. These connectors deliver a balanced

E

output signal from a simulated grounded center-tap source. For unbalanced use, either float pin 3
at the 8824 (preferred), or if necessary, connect it to pin 1 at the 8824.

Digital I/O Connections

It is not necessary to connect to any or all of these connectors at any given time. The connectors
used or not used depends on your specific application. In most situations, connect the sources
and destinations that you do have to the 8824. You can then use it as a ‘router’ to patch your
sources, destinations, and the computer workstation software together .

Connect the AES/EBU input connectors to AES/EBU digital audio sources. Connect the AES/
EBU output connectors to AES/EBU digital audio inputs. If you plan to sync to an AES input,
be sure to use inputs 1-2, 3-4, or 5-6, but not 7-8.

Connect the S/PDIF connectors to consumer audio digital inputs.
Connect the Word Clock input connector to a source of digital audio word clock.
Connect the Word Clock output connector to any other unit requiring the word clock signal.

TO AES OUTPUT

OF PROFESSIONAL

DAT RECORDER

FROM AES OUTPUT
OF PROFESSIONAL
DAT RECORDER

ANALOG AUDIO OUT FROM MIXER OR OTHER SOURCE

TO ADAT

OPTICAL
QUIPPED
I/O CARD

FROM ADAT
OPTICAL
EQUIPPED
I/O CARD

INPUT OUTPUT

CONFIGURATION

REFER TO USER’S GUIDE

CAUTION: FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST

ADA8824

RISK OF FIRE, REPLACE ONLY WITH SAME TYPE FUSE.

ADAT
SYNC

IN

ADAT OPTICAL

INPUT

OUTPUT

FOR OPTIONS

7 8

5643

7 8

5 6432121

50Hz-60Hz AC INPUT 40 WATTS MAX.

115V

FROM OUTPUT OF
CD PLAYER OR
CONSUMER DAT RECORDER

MIDI OUT FROM

COMPUTER FOR

REMOTE CONTROL

OUT

MIDI

INPUT OUT/THRU

S/P DIF

WORD CLOCK

INPUTINPUT

OUTPUT

OUT/THRU

S/PDIF IN

AES/EBU DIGITAL INPUTS

AES/EBU DIGITAL OUTPUTS

5-6 3-4 1-27-8

ANALOG INPUTS

1

1-23-45-67-8

ANALOG OUTPUTS

4328765

2346785

1

ANALOG AUDIO OUT TO MIXER OR OTHER DESTINATION

Figure 3-1. Computer Connections

6

Configuration Settings

The rear-panel configuration switches determine the initial conditions (power-up) of the 8824.
For most applications use R emote mode (set SW1 down). Set SW2 thru SW4 as required by the
input selection and clock source. Refer to Table 2.

SW5-8 have different functions depending on the mode selection (SW1). In Local mode, these
switches determine the origins of the various output signals and the monitoring point for the
meters. Refer to Table 1. In R emote mode, the arithmetic sum of the bit values of these switches
(SW5-7) sets the MIDI device number (0-7). SW8 switches the MIDI command input between
the ADAT Sync input and the DIN-5 MIDI input connectors. Refer to Table 3.

1WS2WS3WS4WS5WS6WS7WS8WS

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0leSklC1leSklC2leSklC

eeS

2elbaT

golanA

tuptuO

ecruoS

SEAgolanASEAtuptuO

UBE/SEA

tuptuO

ecruoS

lacitpO

tuptuO

ecruoS

tceleSreteM

NWOD

etomeRTADATADAgolanAtupnI

Table 1. Dip Switch Settings in Local mode (SW1 up at power-up).

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ecruoS)2WS(0leSklC)3WS(1leSklC)4WS(2leSklC

lacitpOTADA

tupnIkcolCdroW

kcolczHk1.44lanretnI

kcolczHk84lanretnI

1tupnISEA

2tupnISEA

3tupnISEA

tupnIFIDP/S

NWODNWODNWOD

PUNWODNWOD

NWODPUNWOD

PUPUNWOD

NWODNWODPU

PUNWODPU

NWODPUPU

PUPUPU

Table 2. Clock Selector Switch Settings

1WS2WS3WS4WS5WS6WS7WS8WS

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NWOD

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A/N

eeS

tupnIIDIM

tceleS

cnySTADA

)tupnI(

5WS6WS7WS

eciveD

DI

0

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

0eciveD1eciveD2eciveD

NWODNWODNWOD

PUNWODNWOD

NWODPUNWOD

PUPUNWOD

NWODNWODPU

PUNWODPU

NWODPUPU

PUPUPU

Table 3. Dip Switch Settings in Remote mode
(SW1 down at power-up).

Table 4. Device ID selection.

7

The 8824 Configuration Application

Included with the 8824 is a small application that implements a virtual front panel so you can
alter the settings of the unit. If you have any familiarity with Windows or Macintosh applica­tions, you’ll be right at home.

Installation

On either Wintel or Macintosh platforms, make a separate folder and copy the appropriate file
into that folder . On y our desktop, cr eate a shortcut to the configuration application that you just
copied into the folder . Double-click on the shortcut to launch the application.

Settings

Unit Number Dropdown menu selects unit number (0-7).
Analog Output Source Select either ADAT or AES. The eight analog outputs are generated

from this source.

AES Output Source Select either ADAT or Analog (input). The four AES/EB U output

pairs are generated from this source.

Optical Output Source Select either Analog or AES. The lightpipe signal is generated from

this source. Ther e ar e four of these switch blocks; one for channels
1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8.

A/D Sync Source Select from the following: ADAT, Word Clock, Internal 44.1kHz,

internal 48kHz, AES 1-2, AES 3-4, AES 5-6, S/PDIF. The 8824
locks its clock to the selected source. The front panel indicator
relays this information. If ADAT is the sync source, then none of
the front panel sync indicators illuminate. If the A/D sync source
does not match a valid clock source, or if the optical outputs are
fed by a mixture of analog and AES inputs AND the A/D sync
source is not set to the appropriate AES input, audible distortion
may occur .

Digital Input 1,2 Select Select either AES or S/PDIF. Digital inputs 1-2 can use either the

AES/EBU digital inputs (XLR) or the S/PDIF digital inputs (R CA/Coax).

Meters Select from Analog Inputs (ADC), Digital Inputs (AES), Analog

Outputs (DAC) or Digital Outputs (AES).
Apply button Sends all settings to the 8824.
Quit button Quits the configuration application without making any changes.
Save and Quit Saves the changes made and quits the application.

File Menu

Print Screen Prints the current screen display .
Print Setup Modifies the current printer setup.
Exit Exits the configuration application.

8

MIDI Setup

MIDI In Port Select the MIDI In port via the dropdown menu. You must have

preconfigured the MIDI device via the Control P anel.

MIDI Out Port Select the MIDI Out port via the dropdown menu. You must have

preconfigured the MIDI device via the Control P anel.

I/O Setup

Input Gain Displays the Analog Input Gain Control dialog box. Eight virtual faders

determine the input gain setting ahead of the A/D converters. Two push

buttons set all inputs for +4dBu or -10dBV input levels.

Refer to the discussion on this topic below.

Output Gain Displays the Analog Output Gain Control dialog box. Eight virtual faders

determine the output gain setting after the D/A converters. Two push

buttons set all outputs for +4dBu or -10dBV signal levels.

Refer to the discussion on this topic below.

Digital Output Displays the Digital Output Channel Status dialog box. Select between
Configuration AES and S/PDIF output format and the sample rate for the digital output.

Help

About V ersion and copyright information for this application.

Gain and Headroom

The two gain control screens display virtual faders that adjust the amount of gain or attenuation
applied to input or output signals. Two push buttons allow presetting the gain to accommodate
nominal +4dBu or –10dBV signals. At 0dB of gain, an input signal of –4dBu corresponds to a reading
of 0dBFS as read on the 8824’s meter. These readings ar e based on the use of sinewaves. The same gain
relationship applies at the output side of the 8824.

At the input side, the +4dBu button sets the input gain to –8dB, which translates to approximately
20dB of digital headroom (20dB below 0dBFS). Remember that the +4dBu number represents a
signal level read on an average responding indicator (i.e. VU meter), and the metering in the 8824
responds to peaks. If the +4dBu signal has a 20dB peak to average ratio, then this means that the signal
peaks correspond to +24dBu. If the program material allows, either due to your mixing style, com­pression or limiting, or just the material itself, you may wish to reduce the amount of headroom to
place the signal as high as possible within the converter’s dynamic range window . Likewise, for espe­cially dynamic signals, you may want to increase the amount of headroom allowed for these signals.

For –10dB V signals, the –10dBV button sets the input gain to +4dB, which again translates to
approximately 20 dB of dynamic range. The numbers may seem to be off until you r ecall that a
–10dBV signal is the same as a –7.8dBu signal (1V = 0dBV and 1V = +2.2dBu).

For both input and output, ther e is up to 31dB of gain or 95dB of attenuation available.
Note The balanced line receiver can accept signals up to +25dBu. This is independent of any input

attenuation setting.

9

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION - FRONT PANEL OVERVIEW SECTION 5

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SYNC Window

44.1 kHz

48 kHz

WORD CLK

AES/EBU

-3

-6 -6

-9

-12

-15

-18 -18

-21

-24

-27

-30

-50

0000

-1

-3

-6

-9

-1

-3-1-3

-6 -6

-9

-9

-12

-12

-15

-15

-18 -18 -18

-21

-21

-24

-24

-27

-27

-30

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-60 -60 -60

-1

-1-3-1

-3

-6

-9

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-30

-30

-40

-40

-40-40

-50

-50

-50

-60-60 -60 -60

METERINGSYNC

-1

-3

-6

ANALOG IN

-9

-12

-15

DIGITAL IN

-21

-24

ANALOG OUT

-27

-30

-40

DIGITAL OUT

-50

24-BIT I/O

ADAT OPTICAL INTERFACE

ADA

8824

Displays the source of digital audio sync: 44.1kHz internal, 48kHz internal, Word
Clock, or AES/EBU digital input (inputs 1-2, 3-4, 5-6, or S/PDIF). If ADAT sync is
selected the display will be unlit.

LED Meters

15-segment LED bargraph meters display digital or analog
signal levels from either input or output. The source and
mode selections are made via software from the host
computer . The rear panel switches determine the source
and mode when there is no host computer .

-1

-3

-6 -6

-9

-12

-15

-18 -18

-21

-24

-27

-30

-50

-1

-3

-9

-12

-15

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-24

-27

-30

-40-40

-50

0000

-1

-1

-3

-3

-6

-6

-9

-9

-12

-12

-15

-15

-18-18

-21

-21

-24

-24

-27

-27

-30

-30

-40

-40

-50

-50

-60-60 -60 -60

Metering Window

Displays the source and mode of the meters: Analog Input, Digital Input, Analog
Output, Digital Output.

SYNC

1

44.1 kHz

48 kHz

WORD CLK

AES/EBU

000

-1

-3

-6 -6

-9

-12

-15

-18 -18 -18

-21

-24

-27

-30

-40

-50

-60 -60 -60

76853421

-1

-1

-3

-3

-6

-9

-9

-12

-12

-15

-15

-21

-21

-24

-24

-27

-27

-30

-30

-40

-40

-50

-50

METERING

ANALOG IN

DIGITAL IN

ANALOG OUT

DIGITAL OUT

Power Switch

Turns the unit on.

| = On

O = Off

10

ADA

8824

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION - REAR PANEL OVERVIEW

P

A

U

OU

W

IN

P

S

ADAT
SYNC

OUT

IN

CONFIGURATION

ADA8824

ADAT OPTICAL

REFER TO USER’S GUIDE

INPUT OUTPUT

FOR OPTIONS

8

74 5621 3

8

6745231

50Hz-60Hz AC INPUT 40 WATTS MAX.

115V

CAUTION: FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST
RISK OF FIRE, REPLACE ONLY WITH SAME TYPE FUSE.

MIDI

INPUT OUT/THRU

WORD CLOCK

OUT/THRU

S/P DIF

INPUTINPUT

OUTPUT

ADAT Sync connectors

AES/EBU DIGITAL INPUTS

1-23-45-67-8

AES/EBU DIGITAL OUTPUTS

5-6 3-4 1-27-8

ANALOG INPUTS

ANALOG OUTPUTS

4328765

1

2346785

1

Two DB-9 female connectors. These connectors accept and deliver
ADAT Sync signals. ADAT Sync consists of three signals: machine
control, ADAT word clock and time code. Include the ADA8824
(ADAT) first in the chain of ADAT sync devices.

RATION

ER’S GUIDE
TIONS

756

ADAT OPTICAL

INPUT OUTPUT

8

ADAT
SYNC

OUT

IN

MIDI

Configuration Switches

DIP switch. This switch has six functions: local/remote operation, input sync
source, analog and digital output (AES/EBU and optical) source, and meter

CONFIGURATION

source select. This switch is read at initialization (power-on). The remaining
switches are meaningless when a remote computer is used.

The local/remote switch allows operation without the use of a separate com-

REFER TO USER’S GUIDE

FOR OPTIONS

74 5621 3

6745231

50Hz-60Hz AC IN

8

8

puter. The UP position is local operation (no computer), DOWN is remote.
This might be useful in a stand-alone situation, or if your computer crashes.

The analog output source switch determines whether the source for the analog output will be the
signal at the AES/EBU output of the ADAT output. UP is AES, DOWN is ADAT.

The AES/EBU output source switch determines whether the source for the AES/EBU digital
output is the signal at the analog outputs or the ADAT outputs. UP is analog, Down is ADAT.

The optical output source switch determines whether the source for the optical output is the
AES/EBU or analog output signals. UP is AES, DOWN is analog.

AD

INP

The meter source select switch determines whether the default meter signal source is the output
(up) or input (down).

Note Refer to discussion of dip switch settings and tables on page 7.

ADAT Optical connectors

TOSLINK optical (fiber-optic) connectors accept or deliver ADAT optical
signals. The ADAT Optical signal is a multitrack 24-bit digital audio intercon­nection standard.

ADAT OPTICAL

RATION

ER’S GUIDE

INPUT OUTPUT

TIONS

8

756

8

675

Hz-60Hz AC INPUT 40 WATTS MAX.

INPUT

11

MIDI Input and Output

F

5-pin female DIN connectors accept or deliver MIDI signals. The ADA8824
(ADA T) uses MIDI for control when not being operated in stand-alone or ADAT
Sync modes. The ADA8824 (ADAT) uses Sysex commands for control.

IN
L

T

INPUT OUT/THRU

TTS MAX.

AES/EBU Inputs

XLR-3 female connector . This connector accepts digital audio

AES/EBU DIGITAL INPUTS

signals using the AES-3 protocol (which includes older AES/EBU
signals). The connectors ar e paired (marked 1-2, 3-4, etc.) because
each AES-3 signal represents two digital audio channels.

Inputs 1-2, 3-4, or 5-6 are also used for external AES/EBU sync
inputs.

ANALOG INPUTS

XLR-3 female connector . This
connector accepts analog audio

ANALOG INPUTS

signals from balanced or unbal­anced sources. The input imped­ance is 20-kilohms, balanced
(diff-amp input). The maxi­mum input level is +25 dBu. This connector should be driven from a low sour ce impedance.

OUT

MIDI

WORD CLOCK

12346785

S/P DI

1-23-45-67-8

Analog Outputs

XLR-3 male connector . This
connector delivers balanced audio

ANALOG OUTPUTS

signals from a 320-ohms source.
The output stage emulates a
grounded center-tap transformer .

14328765

The maximum output level is
+25 dBu For unbalanced loads, either float the unused output pin (usually pin 3), or ground it at the
ADA8824 (ADA T). Floating pin 3 is the pr eferred method.

AES/EBU OUTPUTS

XLR-3 male connector . This connector delivers digital audio

AES/EBU DIGITAL OUTPUTS

signals using the AES/EBU. The connectors are paired (marked 1­2, 3-4, etc.) because each AES/EBU signal represents two digital
audio channels.

5-6 3-4 1-27-8

12

T

D

S/PDIF INPUT AND OUTPUT

U

RCA female connectors. These connectors accept or deliver S/PDIF digital audio signals.
The S/PDIF input can also be used as an external sync source.

WORD CLOCK INPUT and OUTPUT/THROUGH

BNC male connectors. These connectors accept or deliv er word clock signals. Word
clock is another method of synchronizing multiple digital audio signals. The word clock
output is synchronized to the AES/EBU digital outputs. If the AES/EBU outputs are
fed from the analog inputs, the word clock output gets its signal from the A/D sync
source. If the AES/EBU outputs are fed from the ADAT optical input, the word clock
output gets its signal from that input.

AC Power Input, Voltage Selector, and Fuse

IEC-power connector . Connect only to appropriate A C power source.
Refer to rear-panel marking for correct AC source value.

86745231

50Hz-60Hz AC INPUT 40 WATTS MAX.

The Line Voltage selector switch determines the proper AC mains
voltage required for operation. Set this switch to correspond with the
nominal AC mains voltage used in your studio.

CAUTION: FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST

ADA8824

The user accessible fuse is a part of the IEC AC inlet connector . The

RISK OF FIRE, REPLACE ONLY WITH SAME TYPE FUSE.

fuseholder accepts 5 x 20mm diameter fuses.

OUT/THRU

S/P DIF

LOCK

INPUTT

OUTPUT

RU

INPUT OUT/THR

WORD CLOCK

AX.

INPUT

OUT/THRU

115V

INPUT

WOR

IN

OU

For 117VAC operation, the correct value is 1/2A, 250VAC, slow
blowing (Bussman type GDC-500MA).

For 230VAC operation, the correct value is 1/4A, 250VAC, slow
blowing (Bussman type GDC-250MA).

13

USING THE 8824

S

ECTION 6

Overview

This section of the manual discusses some technical issues that you ’ll need to be familiar with and a
few applications scenarios. This information may be useful if y ou want to get everything you can from
the 8824.

Now that you’re familiar with the 8824, use the Fast Setup section of this manual to integrate the unit
into your studio. If you’re using the unit without a host computer, be sure to set the configuration
switches located at the rear of the unit.

Level Setting

Like any A/D converter , the converter ’s output represents a fixed window that must properly frame the
audio signal. Set it too low, and lose the signal peaks; set it too high and lose the low-level detail.

In the 16-bit world, when that was all there was for conversion, the placement of the converter win­dow was more critical due to the larger step size r epresented by each bit of the digital output. The low
level details in the signal represent things like ambience and soundstage; thus they are critical details.
Capturing these details faithfully means becoming more adept at either setting the window properly or
fitting the signal into the window itself via dynamic range compression.

A 24-bit converter eases this task somewhat. Since the steps are smaller , you no w have the option of placing
the audio signal either a bit higher (better resolution for low-level signals, but lower headroom) or lower
(less resolution for low levels, but higher headroom). Of course, if the signal is alr eady recorded, then it ’s just
a matter of getting levels set properly and then making the transfer into your workstation.

It’s conceivable that you might want to make a 24-bit recording dir ectly into your workstation. I n this
case, set your levels carefully and/or use some preprocessing in the analog domain to make the audio
signal fit into the conversion window.

Clock and Sync Issues

Any time that you have multiple digital audio signals at one time the issue of sync becomes important. Sync
between the signals is important because the converters in the 8824 share a common clock; therefore
external digital signals need to arrive in-sync. This is not a pr oblem if the signals come from a digital multi­track, however it may be a problem if the signals come from separate sources. In this case, you may need to
provide a sync signal for each of these devices.

It is also possible to sync the 8824’s converters to an external source. Y ou can sync to an external AES/EBU
signal via the 1-2 Digital Inputs or to the Word Clock input. Source selection occurs at the 8824 configura­tion application. The 8824 does not use the ADAT word clock signal in the ADA T sync connector .
Ho w ev er, it can sync to ADA T signals deliver ed via the lightpipe connectors.

Note The word clock output is synchronized to the AES/EBU digital outputs. If the AES/EBU

outputs are fed from the analog inputs, the word clock output gets its signal from the A/D
sync source. If the AES/EBU outputs are fed from the ADAT optical input, the word clock
output gets its signal from that input.

14

MIDI Implementation

MIDI control is performed by using either the standard MIDI connectors, OR by using the ADA T
Sync connectors. The ADA T S ync connectors are not used for any other purpose, with the exception
of allowing ADAT specific information to be daisy-chained to multiple ADATs. To switch between
MIDI or ADA T Sync connectors, see belo w , under switch configuration.

All MIDI control of the 8824 is performed by MIDI Sysex commands. This sequence is composed of
the Sysex start byte (F0) followed by the L ucid Manufacturer ID (00 00 5E), followed by the 8824’s
ID (58 hex = 88 decimal), and the particular command and data. The structure of each S ysex is as
follows (all bytes in hexadecimal):

F0 00 00 5E 58 x y <z1 z2 .. zn> F7
where x is the 8824’s specific device number (0 to 7),
y is the command code, and
z1 through zn is the data associated with the command (the length varies depending on the

command)

Command information:

Set Mode : F0 00 00 5E 58 x 20 z F7
where z is defined as follows:

Bit 0 : Analog/Digital Meter Select (0 = analog; 1 = digital)
Bit 1 : Input/Output Meter Select (0 = input; 1 = output)
Bit 2 : Digital Input 1 Selector (0 = AES; 1 = S/PDIF)

Set Sync : F0 00 00 5E 58 x 21 z F7
where z is a 3-bit field (ClkSel0::2), defined as follows:

cnyStupnIdleiFtiBeerhT

ecruoS0leSklC1leSklC2leSklC

lacitpOTADA

tupnIkcolCdroW

kcolczHk1.44lanretnI

kcolczHk84lanretnI

1tupnISEA

2tupnISEA

3tupnISEA

tupnIFIDP/S

000

100

010

110

001

101

011

111

Set Optical Output Source : F0 00 00 5E 58 x 22 z F7
where z = 0 selects analog inputs; z = 1 selects AES inputs

Set Analog Output Source : F0 00 00 5E 58 x 23 z F7
where z = 0 selects ADAT optical input; z = 1 selects AES inputs

15

Set AES Output Source : F0 00 00 5E 58 x 24 z F7
where z = 0 selects ADAT optical input; z = 1 selects analog inputs

Set Analog I/O Gain : F0 00 00 5E 58 x 30 z
where z

through z16 is the analog gain/attenuation for each analog I/O channel, ordered with inputs

1

.. z16 F7

1z2

first, then outputs, and reverse ordered from channels 8 through 1 for both inputs and outputs.
The gain value is a 7-bit number (from 0 to 7F) which provides gain control in 1dB increments from

-95dB to +31dB.
With the

20dB digital headroom). With the

input

gain set to -8dB (hex 58), a +4dBu input translates to approximately -20dbFS (i.e.

input

gain set to +4dB (hex 64), a -10dBV input translates to

approximately -20dbFS (again, 20dB of digital headroom).
Similarly, with the

+4dBu into 600ohms. With the

output

gain set to +1dB (hex 61), a -20dBFS input translates to approximately

output

gain set to -11dB (hex 55), a -20dBFS input translates to
approximately -10dBV. In both of these cases, the actual headroom before clipping depends on the
inputs of the mixer, power amplifier, etc, that the 8824 is driving.

Set digital output control : F0 00 00 5E 58 x 40 z1 z2 F7
where z1 is the address in the digital output buffer to write, and z2 is the encoded data to write.
For this command, there are 2 areas of control. Firstly, the digital outputs must be initialized by

sending:
F0 00 00 5E 58 x 40 03 08 F7

F0 00 00 5E 58 x 40 02 03 F7
F0 00 00 5E 58 x 40 23 08 F7
F0 00 00 5E 58 x 40 22 03 F7
F0 00 00 5E 58 x 40 43 08 F7
F0 00 00 5E 58 x 40 42 03 F7
F0 00 00 5E 58 x 40 63 08 F7

F0 00 00 5E 58 x 40 62 03 F7
Then, the channel status bits may need to be set, depending on what digital equipment you are

transmitting to. There are 8 addresses of interest to set, 2 for each output channel (each channel
is offset by 20 hex bytes). The table on the next page summarizes the addresses and data for

common setups. Formats can be mixed on a per channel basis.

All data is shown in hexadecimal.

16

Professional Mode Consumer Mode

Address 32k 44.1k 48k N.I.

*

32k 44.1k 48k

08 31 11 21 01 00 00 00
0B 00 00 00 00 03 00 02
28 31 11 21 01 00 00 00
2B 00 00 00 00 03 00 02
48 31 11 21 01 00 00 00
4B 00 00 00 00 03 00 02
68 31 11 21 01 00 00 00
6B 00 00 00 00 03 00 02

* Not indicated

The 8824’s MIDI implementation table may be found in Section 8 of this manual.

17

APPLICATIONS & CONFIGURATIONS

Applications

It is impossible to anticipate exactly how you’ll use the ADA8824 (ADAT) in your studio, but
we can make a few educated guesses.

Digital Audio Workstation

In this application, the 8824 may find itself used alone or with accompanying ADAT machines.
The 8824 becomes the computer’s link to the analog and digital world. Since the unit performs
routing functions in addition to analog and digital conversion, it is a convenient way to route and
deliver digital and analog signals to and from your workstation.

In conjunction with most DAW applications, such as Cakewalk Pro Audio, the 8824’s configura­tion application determines the ‘front panel ’ settings of the unit. F or analog sour ces, the 8824
converts these signals into 24-bit digital audio, and routes them to the computer via the lightpipe
interface. On the return trip, the 8824 can route signals to the S/PDIF connectors, to any of the
AES/EBU digital outputs, or to the analog outputs. For digital sour ces, the 8824 bundles them
into the 8-channel ADAT lightpipe format and ships them off to the computer. R eturning fr om
the computer , the 8824 can deliver signals as AES/EBU digital signal pairs, analog audio, or S/
PDIF signals.

SECTION 7

If you are mixing to DAT or for CD release, be sure that your workstation software has been set
to reduce the 24-bit signals to 16-bit and to perform dithering. The 8824 has no facilities for
dithering its output signal.

Note: You can not record 24-bit signals onto a DAT recorder unless your DAT machine is one
that has 24-bit recording capability. The DAT format is 16-bit by design. Trying to record longer
word lengths onto a DAT simply results in losing the extra bits (truncation). The resulting tape
will play, but the audio, particularly at the lowest levels, will suffer.

On the Wintel platform, it is easier to use the 8824 if you use a separate MIDI interface card
rather than that provided (if any) on your lightpipe interface card. A Windows 95/98 limitation
prevents one MIDI port from being used by more than one application. This limitation requires
you to open the configuration application alone, make your configuration adjustments, close the
configuration application, and then start your DAW application. Making any changes later re­quires closing the DAW application first, reopening the configuration application, making the
configuration changes, etc. Not impossible, but certainly tedious. Having a physically separate
MIDI interface allows the configuration application to remain open while running your DAW
application.

When using any ADA T MDM machines and transferring data into y our workstation, you’ll need
to disconnect the 8824’s output (lightpipe) connection so that you can move it to the ADAT
machine. The 8824’s ADAT lightpipe connections have no provision for thru operation. Of
course, if your lightpipe interface card has multiple lightpipe I/O connections (highly recom­mended), then you can leave the MDM’s connected all the time and make the switch in software.

18

Multitrack Recording

By configuring the 8824 for 8-channel A/D conversion with output on the lightpipe connector,
you can use the unit for 24-bit hard disk recording. Depending on your computer hardware, you
may or may not be able to record 8 (or more) tracks simultaneously. Experiment first, before you
commit yourself to learning this the hard way (with clients present).

For mor e than 8-tracks simultaneously, you’ ll need additional 8824s. Remember the caveat abo ve
regarding simultaneous multitrack recording.

A/D - D/A Converter with ADAT Optical I/O

In this application, the 8824 operates as an
eight-channel 24-bit A/D and D/A converter
connected to a host computer equipped with

ANALOG INPUTS

DIGITAL INPUTS

(AES and S/PDIF)

an ADAT lightpipe I/O card. Refer to
figures at right.

8 CHANNELS

ADAT OPTICAL

OUTPUT (8-CHANNELS)

The DIP switch settings shown are for
operation in Local mode. Refer to page 7 for

8 CHANNELS

ADAT OPTICAL

INPUT (8-CHANNELS)

a detailed discussion of the 8824’s dip switch
settings.

The screen shot of the configuration applica-

ANALOG OUTPUTS

DIGITAL OUTPUTS

(AES and S/PDIF)

tion shows the selections needed to make
this application scenario operate in Remote
mode.

Analog input signals enter the 8824 via the
eight analog inputs. After conversion to digital
form, the 8824 performs format conversion
and delivers the audio to the computer via the
lightpipe connector .

On the return trip, the 8824 receives digital
audio from the computer via the lightpipe
connector . This signal is then converted to
analog form and delivered via the eight analog
outputs. The signal is also conv erted to AES/
EBU form and delivered via the AES/EBU
output connectors and the S/PDIF connectors.

REAR DIP SWITCH

8874 5621 3

6745231

(LOCAL MODE)

19

(LOCAL MODE)

REAR DIP SWITCH

8874 5621 3

6745231

A/D - D/A Converter, ADAT Optical I/O

In this application, the 8824 operates as a
stand-alone eight-channel 24-bit A/D and
D/A converter . There is no host computer
required for audio I/O. Refer to figures at
right.

The DIP switch settings shown are for opera­tion in Local mode. Refer to page 7 for a
detailed discussion of the 8824’s dip switch
settings.

The screen shot of the configuration applica­tion shows the selections made to make this
application scenario operate in Remote mode.
Note that it is the DIP switch that makes the
various source, output, and sync selections. The
configuration program is not needed.

Analog input signals enter the 8824 via the
eight analog inputs. After conversion to digital
form, the 8824 performs format conversion
and delivers the audio to the AES/EBU out­puts. (In this example, the A/D inputs also
drive the optical outputs.)

ANALOG INPUTS

ANALOG OUTPUTS

DIGITAL INPUTS
(AES and S/PDIF)

8 CHANNELS

8 CHANNELS

DIGITAL OUTPUTS

(AES and S/PDIF)

ADAT OPTICAL

OUTPUT (8-CHANNELS)

ADAT OPTICAL

INPUT (8-CHANNELS)

On the return trip, the 8824 receives digital
audio via the AES/EBU connectors. These
signals are then converted to analog form and
delivered via the eight analog outputs.

20

(LOCAL MODE)

REAR DIP SWITCH

8874 5621 3

6745231

Digital I/O to ADAT Optical I/O, Plus Analog Monitoring of Host Outputs

In this application, the 8824 takes in four
AES/EBU digital signal pairs and delivers

ANALOG INPUTS

DIGITAL INPUTS

(AES and S/PDIF)

them to the host computer via the lightpipe
connector . The computer sends eight chan­nels of digital audio to the 8824 which

8 CHANNELS

OUTPUT (8-CHANNELS)

converts them to both analog audio and AES/
EBU digital signal pairs. Refer to figures at

8 CHANNELS

INPUT (8-CHANNELS)

right.

ADAT OPTICAL

ADAT OPTICAL

The DIP switch settings shown are for
operation in Local mode. Refer to page 7 for
a detailed discussion of the 8824’s dip switch
settings.

The screen shot of the configuration applica­tion shows the selections made to make this
application scenario operate in Remote mode.

Digital audio signals enter the 8824 via the
four AES/EBU inputs. After conversion to
lightpipe format, the 8824 delivers the audio
to the lightpipe connector .

On the return trip, the 8824 receives digital
audio from the lightpipe input connector .
These signals are then sent to the AES/EBU
and S/PDIF digital outputs. They ar e also
converted to analog form and delivered via the
eight analog outputs.

ANALOG OUTPUTS

DIGITAL OUTPUTS

(AES and S/PDIF)

21

Syncing Two Units

In this application, two 8824s are slaved together for sixteen channels of 24-bit A/D conversion.
Refer to figures below and on the next page. The DIP switch settings shown are for operation in
Local mode. Refer to page 7 for a detailed discussion of the 8824’s dip switch settings. The screen
from the configuration application shows how to configur e the units via computer.

There are three optional configuration differences possible. Option A syncs the two 8824s
together via the Word Clock connections. Option B uses AES/EBU pair 1-2 for the sync
connection. Option C uses the ADAT optical input for sync.

Analog input signals enter the 8824 via the eight analog inputs. After conversion to digital form,
the 8824 performs format conversion and delivers the audio to the lightpipe connector .

On the return trip, the 8824 r eceives digital audio from the lightpipe connector. This signal is
delivered to the AES/EBU digital outputs as well as converted to analog form and delivered to
the eight analog outputs.

ANALOG INPUTS

8 CHANNELS

8 CHANNELS

ANALOG OUTPUTS

8 CHANNELS

8 CHANNELS

DIGITAL INPUTS

(AES and S/PDIF)

DIGITAL OUTPUTS

(AES and S/PDIF)

DIGITAL INPUTSANALOG INPUTS

MASTER

UNIT

ADAT OPTICAL

OUTPUT (8-CHANNELS)

ADAT OPTICAL

INPUT (8-CHANNELS)

WORD CLOCK OUT

AB

WORD CLOCK IN

ADAT OPTICAL

OUTPUT (8-CHANNELS)

ADAT OPTICAL

INPUT (8-CHANNELS)

16 SYNCHRONIZED
OPTICAL CHANNELS

C

DIGITAL OUTPUTSANALOG OUTPUTS

22

SLAVE

UNIT

MASTER

REAR DIP SWITCH

4312

7865

1432

(LOCAL MODE)

SLAVE

REAR DIP SWITCH

A

756 8

87653214

8764321 5

4231

B

C

2341

4231

2341

(ALL LOCAL MODE)

8756

8657

8756

8657

23

MIDI IMPLEMENTATION CHART SECTION 8

Function Transmitted Recognized Remarks
Manufacturer ID 00 00 5E hex notation
Unit ID 58 hex notation
Basic Default

Channel Channel X X

Mode Default X X

Messages X X
Altered X X

Note X X
Number True Voice X X

Velocity Note ON X X

Note OFF X X

After Key’sX X
Touch Ch’s

Pitch Bender X X

Control X X
Change

Program
Change True# X X

System Exclusive O O

System :Song Pos X X

:Song Sel X X

Common :Tune X X

System :Clock X X
Real Time :Commands X X

Aux :Local ON/OFF X X
Messages :All Notes OFF X X

:Active Sense X X
:Reset X X

Notes
O : Yes
X: No

24

BLOCK DIAGRAM SECTION 9

CONFIG

SWITCHES

MICRO

CONTROLLER

ADAT
SYNC

INPUT

OUTPUT

INPUT

WORD CLOCK

OUT/THRU

AES/EBU INPUTS

ADAT OPTICAL

INPUT OUTPUT

8674531 2

86 74 531 2

MIDI

INPUT

OUT/THRU

ATTENUATORS

CONVERTERS

ROUTER/

SIGNAL

A/D

44.1 kHz

48 kHz

WORD CLK

AES/EBU

ANALOG INPUTS

SIGNAL

ATTENUATORS

A/D

CONVERTERS

DIGITAL SIGNAL

PROCESSORMULTIPLEXER

0

0

-1

-3

-6

-9

-12

-15

-18

-21

-24

-27

-30

-40

-50

-60

0

-1

-1

-3

-3

-6

-6

-9

-9

-12

-12

-15

-15

-18

-18

-21

-21

-24

-24

-27

-27

-30

-30

-40

-40

-50

-50

-60

-60

SIGNAL

ATTENUATORS

CONVERTERS

0

-1

-3

-6

-9

-12

-15

-18

-21

-24

-27

-30

-40

-50

-60

SIGNAL

ATTENUATORS

A/D

78654312

0

0

-1

-1

-3

-3

-6

-6

-9

-9

-12

-15

-18

-21

-24

-27

-30

-40

-50

-60

-12

-12

-15

-15

-18

-18

-21

-24

-24

-27

-27

-30

-30

-40

-40

-50

-50

-60

-60

0

-1

-3

-6

-9

-21

A/D

CONVERTERS

METERINGSYNC

ANALOG IN

DIGITAL IN

ANALOG OUT

DIGITAL OUT

INPUT

S/PDIF

OUTPUT

AES/EBU OUTPUTS

D/A

CONVERTERS

SIGNAL

ATTENUATORS

D/A

CONVERTERS

SIGNAL

ANALOG OUTPUTS

CONVERTERS

SIGNAL

ATTENUATORSATTENUATORS

D/AD/A

CONVERTERS

SIGNAL

ATTENUATORS

25

ADA8824 (ADAT) SPECIFICATIONS SECTION 10

Input/Output

Analog Inputs Eight, XLR-female, 20-kilohms line-level balanced bridging
Analog Outputs Eight, XLR male, 320-ohms source impedance, balanced
Digital Audio I/O AES-3 Input; Four , XLR-female

AES-3 Output: Four , XLR-male
S/PDIF I/O: Two, RCA female
Optical (ADA T): Two, TOSLINK optical

Other Digital I/O W ord Clock: Two, BNC male

MIDI Input: One, DIN-5 female
MIDI Output: One, DIN-5 female
ADA T S ync Input: One, DB9 female

ADA T Sync Output: One, DB9 female
Maximum input level +25 dBu
Maximum output level +25 dBu open circuit

Performance Data Analog-to-Digital

Conversion 24-bit delta/sigma
Signal to Noise Ratio (A-weighted) > 113dBFS
THD+Noise < 0.005%, 0dBFS, 1kHz
Frequency Response 20 - 20kHz +/-0.5 dB
Dynamic Range > 113dB

Performance Data Digital-to-Analog

Conversion 24-bit delta/sigma
Signal to Noise Ratio (A-weighted) > 105dBFS
THD+Noise < 0.005%, 0dBFS, 1kHz
Frequency Response 20 - 20kHz +/-0.5 dB
Dynamic Range > 105dB

Physical

Size (hwd), in & cm 3.469 x 19 x 8.5 in (8.81 x 48.26 x 21.59 cm)
Weight, lbs & kg 14 lbs (6.36kg) net

15 lbs (6.82kg) shipping

Electrical

Power requirements 117V AC nominal, 105-125VAC 50-60 Hz, 40 watts

26

230V AC nominal, 205-253V AC 50 Hz, 40 watts

Note The maximum operating ambient temperature is 25 degrees C.

In the interest of continuous product improvement, Lucid reserves the right to alter, change, or modify these specifications without
prior notice.

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WARRANTY AND SERVICE SECTION 11

Lucid Limited Warranty

Lucid expressly warrants that the product will be free from defects in material and workmanship
for a period of (18) months from the date of shipment. Lucid’s obligation under this warranty
will be limited to repairing or replacing, at Lucid’s option, the part or parts of the product
which prove defective in material or workmanship within one year from date of purchase, provided
that the Buyer gives Lucid prompt notice of any defect or failure and satisfactory proof
thereof. Products may be returned by Buyer only after a Return Authorization number (RA) has been
obtained from Lucid. Buyer will prepay all freight charges to return the product to the
Lucid factory. Lucid reserves the right to inspect any products which may be
the subject of any warranty claim before repair or replacement is carried out. Lucid may, at
its option, require proof of the original date of purchase (dated copy of original inv oice). F inal deter­mination of warranty coverage lies solely with Lucid. Products repaired under warranty
will be returned freight prepaid by Lucid via United Parcel Service (surface shipping), to
any location within the continental United S tates. At Buy er’s request, the shipment may be returned
via airfreight at Buyer’s expense. Outside the continental United S tates, products will be returned
freight collect.

The foregoing warranties are in lieu of all other warranties, whether oral, written, express, implied or
statutory. Lucid expressly disclaims any IMPLIED warranties, including fitness for a
particular purpose or merchantability. Lucid’s warranty obligation and Buyer’s remedies
hereunder are SOLEL Y and exclusively as stated her ein.

The limited warranty , with all terms, conditions and disclaimers set forth her ein, shall extend to the
original purchaser and anyone who purchases the product within the specified warranty period.

Lucid does not authorize any third party, including any dealer or sales representative, to
assume any liability or make any additional warranties or representation regarding this product.

This limited warranty gives the buyer certain rights. You may have additional rights provided by
applicable law .

Limitation of LiabilitY

The total liability of Lucid on any claim, whether in contract, tort (including negligence)
or otherwise arising out of, connected with, or resulting from the manufacture, sale, delivery, resale,
repair , replacement or use of any pr oduct will not exceed the price allocable to the product or any part
thereof which gives rise to the claim. In no event will Lucid be liable for any incidental or
consequential damages including but not limited to damage for loss of revenue, cost of capital, claims
of customers for service interruptions or failure to supply , and costs and expenses incurred in connec­tion with labor , overhead, transportation, installation or remo val of products or substitute facilities or
supply houses.

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DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY SECTION 12

Declaration of Conformity

We, Lucid, a division of Symetrix Inc., 6408 216th St. SW,

Mountlake Terrace, Washington, USA, declare under our sole responsibility that the product:

ADA8824 A/D - D/A Platform

to which this declaration relates, is in conformity with the following standards:

EN 60065

Safety requirements for mains operated electronic and related

apparatus for household and similar general use.

EN 55103-1

Electromagnetic compatibility - Generic emission standard

Part 1: Residential, commercial, and light industry.

EN 55103-2

Electromagnetic compatibility - Generic immunity standard

Part 1: Residential, commercial, and light industry.

The technical construction file is maintained at:

Lucid

6408 216th St. SW

Mountlake Terrace, WA, 98043

The authorized representative located within the European Community is:

World Marketing Associates

P.O. Box 100

St. Austell, Cornwall, PL26 6YU, U.K.

Date of issue: April 12th, 1999
Place of issue: Mountlake Terrace, Washington, USA

Authorized signature:

Dane Butcher, President, Lucid

USA

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Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043 USA

30

Lucid

6408 216th St. SW

Tel: [phone]

Fax: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Website: www.lucidaudio.com