Lynx Studio Aurora 16 User Manual
Mastering Analog to Digital and Digital to Analog Converter
User Manual
Lynx Studio Technology, Inc.
www.lynxstudio.com
support@lynxstudio.com
Updated: November 2014
User Manual
Table of Contents
1 Introduction .......................................................................................................... 1
1.1 Overview ...................................................................................................................... 1
1.2 Features ........................................................................................................................ 2
1.3 Nomenclature used in this manual ............................................................................... 2
1.4 In the Box ..................................................................................................................... 3
1.5 Power and Safety Information ...................................................................................... 3
1.6 Rack-Mounting ............................................................................................................. 3
1.7 Operation Requirements ............................................................................................... 3
1.7.1 Input/Output .................................................................................................................... 3
1.7.2 Remote Control ................................................................................................................ 4
2 Operational Overview .......................................................................................... 5
2.1 Front Panel Controls and Indicators ............................................................................. 5
2.2 Multi-Key Commands .................................................................................................. 8
2.3 Back Panel Connections ............................................................................................... 9
2.4 Cable Connections ...................................................................................................... 11
2.5 Connector Pin Outs .................................................................................................... 11
2.6 Clock Settings and Connections ................................................................................. 12
2.6.1 Aurora as Clock Master ................................................................................................. 12
2.6.2 Aurora as Clock Slave ................................................................................................... 13
2.6.3 SynchroLock .................................................................................................................. 14
3 Common Studio Setups ...................................................................................... 15
3.1 Aurora 16 as front end of digital mixer ...................................................................... 15
3.1.1 Clock settings ................................................................................................................ 16
3.1.2 Routing .......................................................................................................................... 16
3.2 Aurora 16 in computer recording system with AES16/AES16e ................................ 17
3.2.1 Clock settings ................................................................................................................ 18
3.2.2 Routing .......................................................................................................................... 18
3.3 Aurora 8 in Computer System with LynxTWO/L22 .................................................. 19
3.3.1 Clock settings ................................................................................................................ 20
3.3.2 Routing .......................................................................................................................... 20
3.4 Standalone Format Converter ..................................................................................... 21
3.4.1 Clock settings ................................................................................................................ 21
3.4.2 Routing .......................................................................................................................... 21
4 Front Panel Key Combinations ......................................................................... 22
5 Troubleshooting .................................................................................................. 23
6 EMC Certifications ............................................................................................ 25
6.1 FCC DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY .............................................................. 25
6.2 CE EMC DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY ...................................................... 25
6.3 CE SAFETY DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY ................................................ 26
7 Support ................................................................................................................ 27
7.1 Lynx Website Support Resources .............................................................................. 27
7.2 Telephone Support ..................................................................................................... 27
7.3 Registering your Aurora ............................................................................................. 27
7.4 Return Policy .............................................................................................................. 27
8 Warranty Information ....................................................................................... 28
1 Introduction
Thank you for choosing the Lynx Aurora 8™ / Aurora 16™ mastering AD/DA converter. The Aurora
has been designed to provide you with the highest quality professional audio performance available,
offering unequalled Analog-to-Digital and Digital-to-Analog conversion, flexible routing capabilities,
I/O expansion options, external control functionality, and maximum channel capacity within a spaceefficient, single rack-space chassis.
Please take a few moments to read through the entire user manual. Reading the manual prior to use
will help to streamline the initial setup procedure and acquaint you with the Aurora’s superior feature
set, allowing you to quickly realize the full potential of this powerful audio tool. Keep in mind that
this manual covers the 16-channel Aurora 16, as well as the 8-channel Aurora 8. Both units are
essentially feature-identical with the exception of channel count. Descriptions and information that are
pertinent only to the Aurora 8 will be marked the icon:
1.1 Overview
The Lynx Aurora is a professional quality Analog to Digital and Digital to Analog converter using
state-of-the-art components combined with a unique ability to adapt to today’s studio environment, as
well as live and remote recording situations. Unlike most standalone pro audio converters, the Aurora
provides 8 or 16 channels of AD and DA conversion with sample rates up to 192kHz. The Aurora
provides the essential front-end for your digital audio workstation, digital mixer, or modular recording
device. Through rigorous component selection, custom firmware programming, and input from a
seasoned engineering team, the Aurora represents a level of sound quality previously available only to
devices costing thousands of dollars more, suitable for mastering and acoustic measurement and
analysis, as well as multi-channel music production.
The Aurora features 24-bit AES3 digital I/O and supports sample rates up to 192kHz through Singlewire or Dual-wire operation. Several cable options are available that allow connection to a wide array
of digital devices.
Should one need support for other digital formats, the Aurora is easily expandable through the addition
of convenient LStream™ or LSlot™ expansion cards. Currently available are the LT-ADAT™
LStream card for ADAT Lightpipe Optical I/O, LT-HD for Avid® ProTools® hardware, LT-MADI
for Optical and coaxial MADI devices, LT-TB for ThunderBolt™, LT-USB for USB 2.0 and the
LynxTWO/Aurora Interface Kit for integrating an Aurora with a LynxTWO or L22 card. Check the
Lynx website for availability of LSlot expansion options.
With exclusive SynchroLock™ technology, the Aurora provides unmatched tolerance to jitter when
synchronizing to external clocks. This makes it an ideal solution for situations where noise sources are
abundant, or where long cable runs are required. The SynchroLock output can also provide a clean
and accurate clock for other connected audio devices.
To adapt to the greatest variety of operational circumstances, several control options are available.
Front panel controls offer access to the most frequently required parameters and allow for effective,
independent operation. For use with a computer-based Digital Audio Workstation, the external remote
control software allows users to access operational parameters, view real-time level meters for all
inputs and outputs, and route any input to any output from a convenient, easy to use interface. To use
this software, the computer must either be equipped with the Lynx AES16e™, a functional MIDI
interface, or have the LT-TB or LT-USB Expansion card installed into the Aurora and operational.
Finally, the Aurora allows user-initiated firmware updates with files posted on the Lynx Studio
Technology website. Firmware updates provide new features and compatibility and can improve the
operation of the unit. The Aurora firmware can be programmed via a connected Lynx AES16/AES16e
Aurora 8
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audio interface, from an installed and operational LT-USB or LT-TB card, or with a connected and
operational MIDI Interface.
1.2 Features
¾ 16-channels of Analog-to-Digital and Digital-to-Analog conversion.
Aurora 8 8 -channels
¾ Support for 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4 and 192kHz sample rates.
¾ Sturdy, road-worthy, single rack-space chassis.
¾ 16-channels of AES/EBU digital I/O in Single-Wire mode, 8-channels in Dual-Wire mode.
Aurora 8 8-channels in Single-Wire mode, 4-channels in Dual-Wire mode.
¾ Sync to external AES/EBU signals, word clock, or expansion devices.
¾ SynchroLock™ technology provides superior immunity to jitter in clock sources.
¾ 16-channels direct to PC or Mac computer system via Lynx AES16 PCI /AES16e PCI Express
audio interface.
¾ Optional External LStream connection to LynxTWO/L22 sync port.
¾ Extensive front panel controls for standalone operation.
¾ Control of parameters, clock settings, mixing/routing, and mixer scenes with external control.
External control is possible with a Lynx AES16, Lynx LT-USB or LT-TB Expansion cards, or a
MIDI-equipped Mac or PC.
¾ “Direct-connect” cabling available for digital mixers and recorders from Yamaha, Sony, Tascam,
Mackie and other manufacturers.
¾ Precision LED level meters with analog or digital source selection.
¾ LSlot expansion port provides for addition of I/O options such as ADAT Lightpipe, MADI,
Thunderbolt, USB, etc.
¾ Firmware updates via Lynx AES16, AES16e, or MIDI.
1.3 Nomenclature used in this manual
The following typographic conventions are used in this manual:
¾ ALL UPPER CASE TEXT refers to a specific parameter selection control (i.e. SYNC SOURCE)
or a cable connection.
¾ Text in quotation marks indicates a parameter selection value or menu option (i.e. “EXT”).
Phrases, such as: Start > Programs > Lynx Studio Technology use the greater than symbol (“>”) to
indicate multiple menu options or mouse selections within a software control context.
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1.4 In the Box
The following items are included in your Aurora carton:
¾ Aurora Rack-Mount Converter
¾ AC Power Cord
¾ Aurora QuickStart Guide
¾ Aurora User’s Manual
¾ Warranty registration card
If any items are missing or damaged, please contact your dealer or Lynx at http://www.lynxstudio.com.
1.5 Power and Safety Information
To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not expose this equipment to rain or moisture. Do not block any of
the ventilation openings. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the grounding-type plug. A grounding
type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The third prong is provided for your safety. If
the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete
outlet. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched, particularly at the plugs, convenience
receptacles, and the point where they connect to the Aurora. Unplug this device during lightning
storms or when unused for long periods of time.
Please note that the Aurora comes factory-configured for a specific
voltage range, and cannot be changed in the field. The acceptable
voltage range of the Aurora is printed on the label affixed to the top
cover of the Aurora just above the AC power inlet. Failure to connect
the Aurora to an AC power source that conforms to the requirements
printed on the label may damage the Aurora and require it to be
returned to the factory for non-warranty repair.
1.6 Rack-Mounting
The Aurora is able be mounted in standard studio equipment racks. Please note that high performance,
high resolution AD and DA converters generate substantial heat.
For optimal performance and product longevity, it is necessary to leave
an empty rack space above and below the Aurora.
1.7 Operation Requirements
The Aurora was designed to operate seamlessly with industry-standard components. Control
requirements pertain to use of external remote control software - disregard if you will be controlling
the Aurora from its front panel controls only.
1.7.1 Input/Output
The Aurora supports AES/EBU for the digital inputs and outputs, and can be used with any AES/EBU
device that supports standard sample rates between 44.1kHz and 192 kHz in single-wire or dual-wire
mode. Please refer to Section 2.4 Cable Connections for more information about available cable sets.
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The Aurora’s analog I/O can be used with balanced or unbalanced line level devices operating at a
nominal trim level of +4dBu or –10dBV (switchable in banks of four channels). The analog outputs
are capable of delivering +20 dBu signal levels, it is important to verify that connected equipment is
capable of handling these signal levels to prevent clipping or possible damage. The Aurora 16-VT
models offer variable trim on all analog inputs and outputs.
1.7.2 Remote Control
In addition to front panel controls, the Aurora can be configured conveniently from the Aurora Remote
Control software installed on a PC or Macintosh computer. A forthcoming Remote Control manual
will detail the software installation and operation. To use the optional Remote Control software, one
of the following conditions must be met:
Via Lynx AES16/AES16e Audio Interface: A PC running Windows 2000/XP/7 or a Macintosh
running OSX with an installed and fully functional Rev B (or higher) Lynx AES16 Audio Interface or
any AES16e Interface. The AES16/AES16e would connect to the Aurora via the Lynx CBL-AES1605
cable or equivalent.
Via Lynx LT-TB Expansion card: A Mac or PC connected to an LT-TB equipped Aurora via
ThunderBolt.
Via Lynx LT-USB Expansion card: A Mac or PC connected to an LT-USB equipped Aurora via
USB 2.0 or 3.0. On Windows the LT-USB drivers will need to be installed and operational.
Via MIDI Interface: A PC running Windows 2000/XP/7/8 or a Mac running OSX with an installed
and fully functional MIDI interface. Attach a MIDI cable from the Aurora’s MIDI Out to the
interface’s MIDI In, and the Aurora 16’s MIDI In to the interface’s MIDI Out.
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2 Operational Overview
2.1 Front Panel Controls and Indicators
The Aurora allows extensive parameter selection and configuration from convenient front panel
controls. For standalone use, or in situations where computer control is not possible, it is important to
be thoroughly familiar with the front panel controls and display. If the correct parameters are not
selected, it is possible to damage connected equipment.
FRONT PANEL
(pictured Aurora 16)
q SAMPLE RATE
This button selects sample rate when the Aurora is set to Internal for SYNC SOURCE. Standard
rates from 44.1 kHz to 192 kHz are available. When the Aurora is slaving to an external clock source,
the LED for the measured sample rate will illuminate. Holding the SAMPLE RATE button while
connecting AC power to the Aurora will restore all settings to the factory default state. PLEASE
NOTE: After the defaults are restored, the unit must be put into standby mode to save the settings
before power is removed.
w SYNC SOURCE
This button selects the clock source that drives the Aurora sample clock generator from the following
options:
INT Clock derived from the on-board crystal oscillator.
EXT Clock signal from WORD CLOCK input.
EXT/2 Clock signal from WORD CLOCK input running at half the desired sample rate.
Typically used with dual-wire AES/EBU devices.
AES A Clock signal from the AES I/O Port A Digital Input. Clock is derived from the first valid
AES/EBU channel.
Aurora 8 Clock signal from the AES inputs 1-4
AES B Clock signal from the AES I/O Port B Digital Input. Clock is derived from the first valid
AES/EBU channel.
Aurora 8 Clock signal from the AES inputs 5-8
LSLOT Clock signal from an LSlot/LStream card installed into the LSLOT expansion port (i.e.
ADAT, Firewire, etc.).
If no clock signal is available for the SYNC SOURCE selected, the LED for the selected source will
flash.
e SynchroLock
This LED shows the status of the SynchroLock clocking system.
Flashing Working (analyzing incoming clock signal). It typically takes one to two minutes to
achieve final lock. The Aurora can be used prior to a locked state, but the jitter reduction
is significantly enhanced when lock is achieved.
Solid Locked. Ready to use.
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No LED SynchroLock is disabled by remote control or the source is outside of SynchroLock range
and the Aurora has reverted back to the wide-range analog PLL. If SynchroLock failed
to lock, you can tap through the SYNC SOURCE options to return to the original source
to re-engage the SynchroLock clocking system.
r TO ANALOG OUT
This button selects the signal source that will be routed to the analog outputs. This is a global
selection, affecting all analog channels. Channels are mapped to directly corresponding channels (i.e.
In 1 to Out 1, In 2 to Out 2, etc.). Individual channels may be routed to specific output destinations
when the external control is used. Choices are:
ANALOG IN Signals from Analog In 1-16
Aurora 8 Signals from Analog In 1-8
AES IN Signals from Port A and Port B Digital In
Aurora 8 Signals from Port A Digital In
LSLOT IN Signals from LSLOT expansion device inputs (for instance ADAT lightpipe)
All 3 LEDs ON In this mode, front panel routing has been bypassed, and routing will be managed by
external control.
t TO DIGITAL OUT
This button selects the signal source that will be routed to the digital outputs. As with the TO
ANALOG OUT selection, this setting impacts all digital channels, whereas per channel routing is
possible with external control. It is possible to route digital inputs to digital outputs, allowing the
Aurora to function as a standalone digital router. Channels are mapped to directly corresponding
channels (i.e. In 1 to Out 1, In 2 to Out 2, etc.). Signal Choices are:
ANALOG IN Signals from Analog In 1-16
Aurora 8 Signals from Analog In 1-8
AES IN Signals from Port A and Port B Digital In
Aurora 8 Signals from Port A Digital In
LSLOT IN Signals from LSLOT expansion device inputs (for instance ADAT lightpipe)
All 3 LEDs ON In this mode, front panel routing has been bypassed, and routing will be managed by
external control.
y IR/MIDI
This LED illuminates to indicate activity from the MIDI input or IR transceiver. This could indicate
that the external control software is being used or that the firmware is being programmed via IR or
MIDI.
u PEAK METERS
These meters display the instantaneous peak level of audio being sent to the Aurora analog or digital
inputs. The intensity of the lower row of orange LEDs indicates signal strength. The upper row of red
LEDs indicate overload.
i IR Transceiver
The infrared transceiver mounted on the front panel of the Aurora provided the ability to control
parameters and view level meters and settings via handheld, laptop or desktop PC with Infrared
capabilities. However, this functionality is no longer supported with current firmware updaters and the
Aurora Remote Control software.
o METER
This button determines whether the peak meters display input activity for the digital or analog inputs.
This button also determines the behavior of the TRIM/AES MODE controls. When the ANALOG
LED is ON the meters indicate the levels for the analog inputs and outputs and the TRIM/AES MODE
button controls the TRIM. When the DIGITAL LED is ON the meters indicate the levels for the digital
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inputs and outputs and the TRIM/AES MODE button still displays and controls the TRIM value.
However, if the unit is in “DUAL WIRE SELECT” Mode, AND the METER button is on DIGITAL,
then the TRIM/AES MODE button controls the AES MODE. Details are in the section below.
a TRIM/AES MODE
When the meter select switch is set to analog, this button allows the nominal trim level to be set for the
analog inputs and outputs to either +4dBu or -10dBV. When selected from the front panel button, this
setting impacts all channels of input and output together, however analog inputs and outputs can be
altered in groups of four channels when the Aurora is remotely controlled. Remote control operation is
indicated when both LEDs are on. Note: the Trim button is disabled on the Aurora 16-VT.
When the METER select is set to digital, and the Aurora is in “DUAL WIRE SELECT” Mode, then
this control allows configuration of the AES/EBU digital I/O. When not in “DUAL WIRE SELECT”
Mode, then setting the METER button to “DIGITAL” will still reveal the TRIM mode, not the Dual
Wire state. To Enable “DUAL WIRE SELECT” Mode, the TRIM/AES MODE button needs to be
pressed in while AC Power is applied. In this state the dual wire state can be selected with the METER
button set to “DIGITAL”. To exit DUAL WIRE MODE, power-cycle the Aurora. Four modes of
operation are possible:
Both LEDs OFF Single Wire I/O Mode. Allows all channels of digital input or output to
operate at sample rates up to 192kHz.
DUAL WIRE IN ON Dual Wire Input Mode. Allows compatibility with legacy dual wire input
devices. In this mode, the number of available input channels is reduced by
½ (Aurora 16 = 8, Aurora 8 = 4).
DUAL WIRE OUT ON Dual Wire Output Mode. Allows compatibility with legacy dual wire
output devices. In this mode, the number of available output channels is
reduced by ½ (Aurora 16 = 8, Aurora 8 = 4).
Both LEDs ON Dual Wire I/O Mode. Enables dual wire mode for both inputs and outputs,
allowing 8 channels maximum of digital I/O for the Aurora 16, and 4
channels for the Aurora 8.
s POWER
This button controls the standby state of the Aurora. When the front panel LEDs are not lit, the Aurora
is in standby mode. In this state the Aurora is not functional and is using a minimal amount of power.
To completely power down the Aurora, it must be unplugged from the AC power source.
When the Aurora is in standby mode, pressing the POWER button will illuminate the front panel
LEDs indicating that the Aurora is now ready for use. When the Aurora is in on mode, pressing the
POWER button for ½ second will put the unit into standby mode.
Holding the POWER button while connecting AC power to the Aurora will toggle the power-up mode
to either ON or STANDBY. PLEASE NOTE: After the mode is changed the unit must be put into
standby mode to save this setting before power is removed. See Section 2.2 for more information.
PLEASE NOTE: It is best to wait until SynchroLock has achieved lock before using the Aurora for
recording. See
e above).
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2.2 Multi-Key Commands
In addition to the standard front panel controls detailed in 2.1, the Aurora has been programmed so that
extended functionality is available through the use of multi-key combinations, or by pressing a button
down while AC power is applied. The sections below detail these key combinations and the firmware
required for each to operate.
Power Up State
This command changes the power up state of the Aurora from STANDBY (the default) to ON. In
STANDBY mode, when AC power is applied, the POWER button must be pressed before the unit will
become operational. In ON mode, when AC power is applied the Aurora will be ready to use. ON is
the ideal setting when a single power switch is used to turn on an equipment rack.
To activate, hold the POWER button while connecting AC power. PLEASE NOTE: After the mode
is changed the unit must be put into standby mode to save this setting before power is removed again.
This function requires firmware revision 11 or higher in order to operate.
Restore Defaults
This command returns the Aurora to its factory default condition. SYNC SOURCE, ROUTING,
TRIM, AES states, etc. will all be impacted. This is a useful diagnostic step whenever performance
problems are encountered. To activate, press the SAMPLE RATE button while AC Power is applied.
This function requires firmware revision 11 or higher in order to operate.
Verify Firmware Revision
This command will display the current firmware version of the Aurora. In standby mode, press the
TRIM and POWER buttons simultaneously. The LEDs in the PEAK METER display will blink, and
the LED over one or two channels will flash repeatedly. This is the number of the active firmware
version. This function requires firmware revision 13 or higher in order to operate.
Dual Wire Select Mode
This command allows selection of the Dual Wire state for the Aurora’s AES digital channels. In this
Mode, when the METER button is set to “DIGITAL”, Dual Wire In and Dual Wire Out can be enabled
with the TRIM/AES MODE button. To activate, press the TRIM/AES MODE button while AC Power
is applied. To deactivate, turn the Aurora OFF and then back ON with the STANDBY button.
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