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 |
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1.1 |
Overview...................................................................................................................... |
1 |
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1.2 |
Features ........................................................................................................................ |
2 |
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1.3 |
Nomenclature used in this manual ............................................................................... |
2 |
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1.4 |
In the Box..................................................................................................................... |
3 |
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1.5 |
Power and Safety Information...................................................................................... |
3 |
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1.6 |
Rack-Mounting............................................................................................................. |
3 |
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1.7 |
Operation Requirements............................................................................................... |
3 |
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1.7.1 |
Input/Output .................................................................................................................... |
3 |
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1.7.2 |
Remote Control................................................................................................................ |
4 |
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2 |
Operational Overview.......................................................................................... |
5 |
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2.1 |
Front Panel Controls and Indicators............................................................................. |
5 |
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2.2 |
Multi-Key Commands.................................................................................................. |
8 |
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2.3 |
Back Panel Connections............................................................................................... |
9 |
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2.4 |
Cable Connections...................................................................................................... |
11 |
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2.5 |
Connector Pin Outs .................................................................................................... |
11 |
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2.6 |
Clock Settings and Connections................................................................................. |
12 |
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2.6.1 |
Aurora as Clock Master................................................................................................. |
12 |
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2.6.2 |
Aurora as Clock Slave................................................................................................... |
13 |
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2.6.3 |
SynchroLock.................................................................................................................. |
14 |
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3 |
Common Studio Setups...................................................................................... |
15 |
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3.1 |
Aurora 16 as front end of digital mixer...................................................................... |
15 |
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3.1.1 |
Clock settings ................................................................................................................ |
16 |
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3.1.2 |
Routing.......................................................................................................................... |
16 |
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3.2 |
Aurora 16 in computer recording system with AES16/AES16e................................ |
17 |
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3.2.1 |
Clock settings ................................................................................................................ |
18 |
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3.2.2 |
Routing.......................................................................................................................... |
18 |
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3.3 |
Aurora 8 in Computer System with LynxTWO/L22.................................................. |
19 |
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3.3.1 |
Clock settings ................................................................................................................ |
20 |
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3.3.2 |
Routing.......................................................................................................................... |
20 |
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3.4 |
Standalone Format Converter..................................................................................... |
21 |
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3.4.1 |
Clock settings ................................................................................................................ |
21 |
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3.4.2 |
Routing.......................................................................................................................... |
21 |
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4 Front Panel Key Combinations......................................................................... |
22 |
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5 |
Troubleshooting.................................................................................................. |
23 |
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6 |
EMC Certifications............................................................................................ |
25 |
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6.1 |
FCC DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY.............................................................. |
25 |
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6.2 |
CE EMC DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY ...................................................... |
25 |
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6.3 |
CE SAFETY DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY................................................ |
26 |
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7 |
Support................................................................................................................ |
27 |
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7.1 |
Lynx Website Support Resources .............................................................................. |
27 |
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7.2 |
Telephone Support ..................................................................................................... |
27 |
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7.3 |
Registering your Aurora............................................................................................. |
27 |
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7.4 |
Return Policy.............................................................................................................. |
27 |
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8 |
Warranty Information....................................................................................... |
28 |
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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: Aurora 8
1.1Overview
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
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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.
1.2Features
¾16-channels of Analog-to-Digital and Digital-to-Analog conversion.
Aurora 8 8 -channels
¾Support for 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4 and 192kHz sample rates.
¾Sturdy, road-worthy, single rack-space chassis.
¾16-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.
¾Sync to external AES/EBU signals, word clock, or expansion devices.
¾SynchroLock™ technology provides superior immunity to jitter in clock sources.
¾16-channels direct to PC or Mac computer system via Lynx AES16 PCI /AES16e PCI Express audio interface.
¾Optional External LStream connection to LynxTWO/L22 sync port.
¾Extensive front panel controls for standalone operation.
¾Control 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.
¾Precision LED level meters with analog or digital source selection.
¾LSlot expansion port provides for addition of I/O options such as ADAT Lightpipe, MADI, Thunderbolt, USB, etc.
¾Firmware updates via Lynx AES16, AES16e, or MIDI.
1.3Nomenclature used in this manual
The following typographic conventions are used in this manual:
¾ALL UPPER CASE TEXT refers to a specific parameter selection control (i.e. SYNC SOURCE) or a cable connection.
¾Text 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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1.4In the Box
The following items are included in your Aurora carton:
¾Aurora Rack-Mount Converter
¾AC Power Cord
¾Aurora QuickStart Guide
¾Aurora User’s Manual
¾Warranty registration card
If any items are missing or damaged, please contact your dealer or Lynx at http://www.lynxstudio.com.
1.5Power 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.
1.6Rack-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.
1.7Operation 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.
1.7.1Input/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.
1.7.2Remote 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
2.1Front 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. |
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EXT |
Clock signal from WORD CLOCK input. |
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EXT/2 |
Clock signal from WORD CLOCK input running at half the desired sample rate. |
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AES A |
Typically used with dual-wire AES/EBU devices. |
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Clock signal from the AES I/O Port A Digital Input. Clock is derived from the first valid |
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AES/EBU channel. |
Clock signal from the AES inputs 1-4 |
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AES B |
Aurora 8 |
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Clock signal from |
the AES I/O Port B Digital Input. Clock is derived from the first valid |
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AES/EBU channel. |
Clock signal from the AES inputs 5-8 |
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LSLOT |
Aurora 8 |
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Clock signal from |
an LSlot/LStream card installed into the LSLOT expansion port (i.e. |
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ADAT, Firewire, etc.). |
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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
AES IN |
Aurora 8 |
Signals from Analog In 1-8 |
Signals from Port |
A and Port B Digital In |
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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
AES IN |
Aurora 8 |
Signals from Analog In 1-8 |
Signals from Port |
A and Port B Digital In |
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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 |
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operate at sample rates up to 192kHz. |
DUAL WIRE IN |
ON |
Dual Wire Input Mode. Allows compatibility with legacy dual wire input |
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devices. In this mode, the number of available input channels is reduced by |
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½ (Aurora 16 = 8, Aurora 8 = 4). |
DUAL WIRE OUT |
ON |
Dual Wire Output Mode. Allows compatibility with legacy dual wire |
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output devices. In this mode, the number of available output channels is |
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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, |
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allowing 8 channels maximum of digital I/O for the Aurora 16, and 4 |
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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.
HPLEASE NOTE: It is best to wait until SynchroLock has achieved lock before using the Aurora for recording. See e above).
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2.2Multi-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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