User Manual
Please Note: The LT-HD requires your Aurora converter to have Firmware Version 14 or later.
Any Aurora shipped from Lynx Studio Technology prior to August 22, 2006 will have previous
firmware installed in it.
For information about updating the Aurora’s firmware to a compatible revision, see section 3.3:
Operation Requirements.
Lynx Studio Technology, Inc.
www.lynxstudio.com
support@lynxstudio.com
User Manual
Table of Contents
1 Introduction............................................................................................................................. 1
2 Features................................................................................................................................... 1
3 Before You Begin................................................................................................................... 2
3.1 Contents .......................................................................................................................... 2
3.2 Optional Equipment........................................................................................................ 2
3.3 Operation Requirements ................................................................................................. 2
4 Nomenclature used in this manual.......................................................................................... 3
5 Warranty Registration.............................................................................................................3
5.1 Locating the Serial Number of Your LT-HD ................................................................. 3
6 Installation Procedure ............................................................................................................. 4
7 External Connections.............................................................................................................. 8
8 Clock Settings......................................................................................................................... 9
8.1 Loop Sync..................................................................................................................... 10
9 ProTools Setup...................................................................................................................... 11
9.1 Hardware Setup Page.................................................................................................... 11
9.2 I/O Setup Page .............................................................................................................. 17
10 Aurora Parameter Controls............................................................................................... 18
10.1 Front Panel Controls..................................................................................................... 18
10.2 Aurora Remote Control Software................................................................................. 20
11 Updating the firmware on the LT-HD.............................................................................. 22
12 Specifications.................................................................................................................... 23
13 Support.............................................................................................................................. 24
13.1 Lynx Website Support Resources.............................................................................24
13.2 Telephone Support.................................................................................................... 24
13.3 Registering your LT-HD........................................................................................... 24
13.4 Return Policy ............................................................................................................ 24
14 Warranty Information ....................................................................................................... 25
Please note: This is a preliminary user manual. If you would like to receive the completed version of this manual
when it is available, send an email request with your name, address and the serial number of your Aurora to:
sales@lynxstudio.com.
1 Introduction
Thank you for purchasing the LT-HD™! We are proud to provide you with a reliable,
professional-quality product for your digital audio requirements.
This manual provides basic information to help you get started. Additional information is
available via our web site and email support. Please refer to the support section at the end of this
manual for support contact information.
The LT-HD is a 32-channel LSlot interface that is designed to allow the Aurora professional
audio AD/DA converters to be used with Digidesign® ProTools|HD® Recording Systems. The
LT-HD allows direct connection with ProTools|HD Core, Accel and Process cards. An LT-HD
equipped Aurora emulates a Digidesign 192 I/O™ interface, making integration simple and
allowing for accurate delay compensation within ProTools® software. Multiple LT-HD equipped
Auroras can be used to achieve the desired channel count within a ProTools|HD system.
2 Features
One Primary and one Expansion DigiLink port.
Up to 32 channels of AD/DA conversion per ProTools|HD Core or Accel/Process card
possible with two Aurora 16’s.
Aurora 16 can operate in 16-channel mode or 32-channel mode. In 16-channel mode up to 16
channels of analog and digital I/O can be used at one time. In 32-channel mode all 16
channels of analog I/O and all 16 channels of digital I/O can be used simultaneously.
Aurora 8 provides 8 channels of analog I/O and 8 channels of digital I/O simultaneously.
Supports full channel count at sample rates up to 192 kHz.
Offers audio signal latency identical to that of the Digidesign 192 I/O for accurate delay
compensation within ProTools - no manual delay adjustments required.
Allows I/O functions and Aurora parameters to be controlled and monitored within ProTools.
Interfaces with HD system using standard DigiLink cables.
Allows daisy-chaining of multiple Aurora converters and other DigiLink devices via
Expansion port.
Lynx proprietary SynchroLock™ technology can be used to reduce jitter when Aurora is a
clock slave or to provide stable, low jitter clock to downstream devices.
Easily installed into Aurora.
Page 1
3 Before You Begin
We recommend that you read through the manual to acquire an overview of the installation
procedure and use of the LT-HD. This manual will presume a working knowledge of the Aurora
converter. For additional information, please refer to the Aurora owner’s manual.
3.1 Contents
Verify that you received the following in the LT-HD shipping carton:
• LT-HD card in cushioned antistatic bag
• Warranty Registration Card
• User Manual
1
•
/2” Standoff Post
3.2 Optional Equipment
DigiLink cables (available from Digidesign) are required for connection to ProTools HD cards.
3.3 Operation Requirements
The LT-HD requires your Aurora converter to have Firmware Version 14 or later. This should
be verified prior to installing and configuring the LT-HD card. To determine what firmware
revision your Aurora has, press the TRIM and POWER buttons at the same time with the power
to the Aurora off. If the LED flashes over the numbers 1 & 4 or above (i.e. 1&5, 1&6, etc.),
then your unit is compatible with the LT-HD. If pressing Power and Trim does not cause any
LEDs to flash, or causes a single number to flash, then your unit needs to be updated.
Updating the Aurora firmware to version 14 requires a Lynx AES16 PCI audio interface. If your
Aurora has firmware version 13 it can also be updated by a Windows PC or OSX Macintosh via
MIDI, or by a Windows PC via Infrared. The Aurora firmware updater program is available for
download from the Lynx website at Support > Latest Driver Download. If your unit requires an
AES16 to update because it has rev 12 or earlier, and you do not have access to one, there are
two options for customers within the USA and Canada:
• Option 1: Send the Aurora and LT-HD to Lynx Studio Technology in California. We will
update the Aurora, install the LT-HD and do a full diagnostic test within one day of
receipt. It will be return shipped via 2-Day Air.
• Option 2: Lynx Studio Technology will loan you an AES16 for updating the firmware in
your Aurora. For more information on the procedure and any questions, contact
support@lynxstudio.com
If you are outside of the USA or Canada, please contact your local distributor for
additional firmware update options.
The Aurora/ LT-HD (an LT-HD equipped Aurora) also requires a correctly installed and
configured ProTools|HD system with Digidesign Core, Accel or Process card(s).
or call 949-515-8265 ext 206.
Page 2
4 Nomenclature used in this manual
The following typographic conventions are used in this manual:
ALL UPPER CASE TEXT refers to a specific parameter selection control (i.e. SYNC
SOURCE) or a cable connection.
Text in quotation marks indicates a parameter selection value or menu option (i.e. “EXT”).
Phrases, such as: Click Setups Menu > Hardware Setup, use the greater than symbol (“>”) to
indicate multiple menu options or mouse selections within a software control context.
5 Warranty Registration
We are committed to providing you with the best service possible. To help us serve you better,
please be sure to register your LT-HD using one of the following methods:
• Fill out and mail the Warranty Registration Card included with your LT-HD.
• Register on the web at:
http://www.lynxstudio.com/support.html
Once you are registered you will automatically receive notifications of new products and
upgrades.
5.1 Locating the Serial Number of Your LT-HD
To register your LT-HD, you must supply its serial number. The serial number is located on a
label attached to the back (solder-side) of the LT-HD board, and also on the shipping carton.
Page 3
6 Installation Procedure
1. Remove the AC power cord and take the top off of the Aurora 16 or Aurora 8. There are
seven large screws plus one small screw near the center of the front faceplate.
2. Before installing the LT-HD card, there is a jumper setting on the Aurora that corrects the
current draw for an Aurora with an LT-HD.
If you are updating a Rev A. Aurora, remove jumper W3 from the JP6 header on the
Aurora mainboard.
If you are updating a Rev B Aurora, slide switch 4 (labeled W4 on PCB) of
SW1 to the OFF position (towards back panel)
Page 4
3. Remove the LSlot Expansion Port cover above the AES I/O Ports by removing the two
mounting screws. Set these two screws aside, as they will be used to secure the LT-HD
after installation.
4. Remove the screw from the Aurora circuit board that is adjacent to the JP1 connector and
the white serial number/barcode label. Set the screw aside for reuse.
Page 5
5. Install the standoff post (included with the LT-HD) in this same hole.
6. Grounding yourself to the earth ground, remove the LT-HD from its protective static bag.
7. Attach the multi-pin connector on the back edge of the LT-HD to the LSlot connector
(JP1) on the Aurora mainboard. When the LT-HD connector pins appear to be lined up
correctly with the Aurora LSlot connector press gently until the connector snaps into
place. In some cases, the board may need to be gently flexed for the LSlot connector pins
to line up correctly with JP1 on the Aurora mainboard.
Use caution to insure that the pins line up as shown. Incorrect installation could
damage the unit.
Page 6
8. Secure LT-HD with three screws; one on the standoff and two from the back panel of
Aurora. Keep screws loose until LT-HD is properly aligned, then tighten snugly, but do
not overtighten.
9. Reinstall the Aurora lid using the eight screws that had been removed. Do not over
tighten the small screw near the center of the front faceplate as it is easily damaged.
10. Plug in and power up the Aurora using the front panel standby switch. You can see the
LT-HD from the slits in the Aurora lid. If the green LED on the LT-HD lights up, the
installation was successful. If the LED does not light, unplug the Aurora and re-mount
the LT-HD, making sure that it is securely attached. Then plug in and power up again. If
the green LED still does not light, contact Lynx Customer Support (949-515-8265 X206).
Page 7
7 External Connections
The physical connection between the Aurora/LT-HD and Digidesign Core, Process or Accel
cards is very straightforward. Please note: we suggest only using DigiLink cables of 12’ or
shorter for optimal performance.
The LT-HD card has two connectors labeled as PRIMARY and EXPANSION, similar to the
Digidesign HD Interfaces. The port that an interface is connected to will determine how it will be
accessed within the ProTools environment. See Section 10 for information about software setup
considerations.
Connecting a single LT-HD equipped Aurora to a single ProTools|HD Core Card is simply a
matter of connecting a DigiLink cable from the LT-HD PRIMARY port to the ProTools Core
Card DigiLink port. If two Auroras will be connected to the same Core or Accel/Process card,
the first should be connected as described above, and an additional DigiLink cable should be
used to connect from the EXPANSION port on the first interface to the PRIMARY port on the
second. It is not possible to connect more than two Aurora 16s or two Aurora 8s to a single
ProTools|HD Core or Accel/Process card, as there is a 32-channel limit to each card.
There are three possible states for integrating an Aurora into a ProTools|HD system:
• Aurora 16 in 32-channel mode
• Aurora 16 in 16-channel mode
• Aurora 8
In 32-channel mode, all analog and digital I/O channels of the Aurora 16 are available
simultaneously. Since each DigiLink port is capable of 32-channels maximum, in 32-channel
mode it would not be possible to connect a second interface to the LT-HD expansion port. The
Channel Mode for the Aurora can be toggled from the front panel by pressing the TO ANALOG
OUT button for ½ second. The correct mode should be set prior to launching the ProTools
software. In 32-channel mode, the Aurora 16 will appear as two Digidesign 192 I/O interfaces.
Each “instance” will present 8 channels of Analog I/O and 8 channels of Digital I/O - both of
which can be used simultaneously. Combined, this allows 32-channels of input and output to be
available (16 analog/ 16 digital).
In 16-channel mode, each Aurora 16 will appear as a single 192 I/O interface. In this mode, 16
channels of Analog I/O and 8 channels of Digital I/O will be presented to the ProTools software.
Of these 24 possible I/O channels, only 16 can be used at one time. For instance, one could use 8
Page 8
channels of analog + 8 channels of digital or 16 channels of analog I/O at one time. It is not
possible however, to access 16-channels of digital I/O in this mode.
This is the default state for an Aurora 16. If two Aurora 16s will be connected to a single HD
Core/Accel/Process card, both will need to be in 16-channel mode in order for both units to be
available to the ProTools software. This configuration is recommended for those who need more
than 16-channels of AD/DA conversion. Since ProTools will only display 16 analog inputs and
8 analog outputs (this is a limitation of the 192 I/O that the Aurora mimics), the Aurora has been
programmed so that Analog Outputs 9-16 are mirrored by Digital Outputs 1-8 when in 16channel mode. If monitoring equipment is connected to Analog Outputs 9/16 and Digital Outputs
1-8, one device should be muted or disconnected to avoid duplicate playback.
Aurora 8’s will always operate in 16-channel mode, where 8 analog and 8 digital I/O channels
are available simultaneously.
If more than 32-channels of I/O is required then additional Digidesign Accel or Process cards
will be required.
If more than 32-channels of I/O is required then additional Digidesign Accel or Process cards
will be required. Possible combinations that can be connected to a single DigiLink port are two
Aurora 16s, one Aurora 16 and one Aurora 8, or two Aurora 8s. In multiple interface
configurations use the Primary and Expansion ports to connect all the units in series. Keep in
mind that each Aurora used in this fashion needs to be equipped with an LT-HD card.
It is also possible to connect LT-HD equipped Auroras in series with Digidesign or other third
party HD-compatible interfaces. In this case, “daisy-chain” the interfaces in the same fashion as
described for multiple Auroras, keeping in mind the 32-channel per HD card limitation. In this
context, LT-HD/Auroras can be connected to the expansion port of the Digidesign/other
interface, or the Digidesign/other interface can be connected to the LT-HD expansion port.
8 Clock Settings
In any audio system with more than one digital device, it is ideal for one master clock to provide
synchronization to all connected devices. There are several options for configuring the Aurora to
send or receive clock within a ProTools|HD environment.
ProTools|HD Interfaces and other digital devices can slave to the sample clock generated by the
Aurora, or the Aurora can be configured to receive clock from another interface or digital device.
It is also possible to have a dedicated clock source that provides clock to both the Aurora and
every other digitally connected device. In fact, if more than two digital I/O devices will be
integrated into your ProTools|HD system, we strongly recommend using some form of clock
distribution to insure proper clock synchronization.
When used with ProTools|HD, there are some differences as to what clock choices are available
for the Aurora, and how they are labeled. Section 9.1 describes which Aurora Sync Source
settings are possible from within ProTools, and section 10 describes how clock source choices in
ProTools are interpreted by the Aurora.
Please see section 2.4 of the Aurora manual for general information about available clock
settings and clocking considerations with the Aurora.
Page 9
8.1 Loop Sync
ProTools|HD features a synchronization system called Loop Sync, which potentially simplifies
establishing clock relationships between connected interfaces and/or other synchronization
devices. When Loop Sync is utilized within Pro Tools, establishing an interface as a clock master
automatically sets other interfaces in the system to slave without changes to clock cabling.
Currently the Aurora only supports Loop Sync completely when used as a clock master (true for
LT-HD firmware revisions 1-5). We do intend to support Loop Sync slave operation in a future
firmware update. Loop Sync is only applicable to cases where more than one interface is
connected to the ProTools|HD system. How it is used (or not used) will vary depending on the
combination of interfaces in the system.
8.1.1 With Multiple Auroras
When multiple Auroras are connected to an HD system, and one will be a clock master, it is
possible to use Loop Sync in a limited form to simplify establishing the clock relationships
between them. Connect the WORD CLOCK OUT from the Aurora selected to be the clock
master into the WORD CLOCK IN on the slave unit. If there are additional Auroras, continue
daisy-chaining the clock outputs to clock inputs for all devices. It is not necessary to connect the
WORD CLOCK OUT from the last device in the chain back to the WORD CLOCK IN of the
master device. When you select “Internal” as the clock source for the master unit in the ProTools
Hardware Setup page, the other units will automatically switch to “EXT” as their clock source.
In the ProTools Hardware Setup page, it is critical that the “Ext. Clock Output” for the master
Aurora be set to the active sample rate, rather than to the ½ or ¼ the sample rate. After
configuring, verify that the slave Auroras are set to “EXT” from their front panels, and that they
display the current sample rate before proceeding.
8.1.2 With One Aurora combined with other Digidesign HD compatible interfaces
When an Aurora will be used along with other Digidesign HD compatible interfaces, Loop Sync
can be used only if the Aurora will be the clock master. In this scenario, the Aurora’s WORD
CLOCK OUT should be connected to the LOOP SYNC IN of the next HD compatible interface.
If there are more interfaces, continue daisy-chaining LOOP SYNC OUT to the LOOP SYNC IN
on the subsequent interfaces. It is not necessary to connect LOOP SYNC OUT from the last
device back to the Aurora.
In the ProTools Hardware Setup page, select “Internal” as the clock source for the Aurora, and
set the “Ext Clock Output” to the current base sample rate (i.e. for 44.1, 88.2 or 176.4 kHz
choose 44.1 kHz, for 48, 96 or 192 kHz choose 48 kHz). In this state, the non-Aurora interfaces
will receive clock from the Aurora and operate at the correct project sample rate.
8.1.3 With a dedicated clock source distributed to multiple Auroras and other
Digidesign HD compatible interfaces
In theses configurations, Loop Sync should not be used. The WORD CLOCK inputs and outputs
should be used on the Digidesign interfaces, rather than the LOOP SYNC I/O, and clock sources
should be set individually to word clock input for each interface via the ProTools Hardware
Setup page.
Page 10
q
w
9 ProTools Setup
When an Aurora/LT-HD is connected to a Digidesign Core or Accel/Process card it will
automatically be integrated as an I/O choice from within ProTools. Settings for attached
interfaces are managed from the Hardware and I/O Setup pages within the ProTools Setup Menu.
9.1 Hardware Setup Page
The Hardware setup page within the ProTools software is where settings for connected interfaces
are defined and displayed. This page reveals what I/O choices are available, allows parameters
such as sync source to be set, and allows the user to establish which analog or digital I/O ports on
connected interfaces will be available for ProTools record and play channels.
The Aurora will appear here as a single Digidesign 192 I/O interface when the Aurora is in 16channel mode, or as 2 192 I/Os when in 32-channel mode. An Aurora 8 will always appear as a
single 16-channel device. There are important ramifications to this orientation, since the Aurora
offers I/O choices that are not possible with a 192 I/O. The following chart will be a critical tool
to determine how to access the analog and digital I/O ports from within ProTools, since the I/O
types available on the Aurora will not always intuitively match the defined I/O ports in ProTools.
Please note that parameter switches can have different results depending on whether you are
using an Aurora 16 in 16-channel mode, an Aurora 16 in 32-channel mode or an Aurora 8.
Page 11
Notes:
Peripherals q
Clock Source:
Internal
Clock Source:
AES/EBU
(INT)
Clock Source:
AES/EBU 1-2
Clock Source:
AES/EBU 3-4
Clock Source:
AES/EBU 5-6
Clock Source:
AES/EBU 7-8
Clock Source:
ADAT 1-8
TDIF 1-8
Optical
(ADAT)
Wordclock
(44.1k/48k)
Wordclock
(88.2k/96k)
Wordclock
(176.4.2k/192k)
Aurora 16:
Aurora 8
16 active
channels at a
time:
8 analog inputs,
8 analog
outputs,
8 digital
inputs/outputs
192 I/O #1 192 I/O #1
w
* EXT/2 and EXT/4 clock rates are not supported in the early revisions
of the LT-HD firmware.
INT INT INT N/A
N/A N/A N/A N/A
AES A
(channels 1-4)
AES A
(channels 1-4)
AES B
(channels 5-8)
AES B
(channels 5-8)
N/A N/A N/A N/A
N/A N/A N/A N/A
N/A N/A N/A N/A
EXT EXT EXT N/A
EXT (88.2/96)
or EXT/2*
(44.1/48)
EXT
(176.4/192) or
EXT + EXT/2*
(44.1/48)
16-channel
mode
16 active
channels at a
time:
16 analog inputs,
16 analog
outputs, 8 digital
inputs/outputs
AES A
(channels 1-8)
AES A
(channels 1-8)
AES A
(channels 1-8)
AES A
(channels 1-8)
EXT (88.2/96) or
EXT/2* (44.1/48)
EXT (176.4/192)
or EXT +
EXT/2* (44.1/48)
Aurora 16: 32-channel
mode
32 active channels at a time:
16 analog inputs,
16 analog outputs,
16 digital inputs/outputs
192 I/O #1
(channels 1-8)
AES A
(channels 1-8)
AES A
(channels 1-8)
AES A
(channels 1-8)
AES A
(channels 1-8)
EXT (88.2/96)
or EXT/2*
(44.1/48)
EXT
(176.4/192) or
EXT +
EXT/2*
(44.1/48))
192 I/O #2
(channels 9-16)
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
Page 12
e
t
u
r
Sample
Rates
Identify r
Analog In
1-8
Analog In
9-16
AES/EBU
In 1-8
ADAT In
1-8
Analog
Out 1-8
AES/EBU
Out 1-8
ADAT
Out 1-8
Digital
Format
y
Aurora 8
e
t
y
u
All Supported All Supported All Supported N/A
Causes LEDS on
Aurora Front
panel to flash
Analog In 1-8 Analog In 1-8 Analog In 1-8 Analog In 9-16
Digital Out (1-8)
N/A Analog In 9-16 N/A N/A
Digital In (1-8)
N/A N/A N/A N/A
Analog Out 1-8 Analog Out 1-8 Analog Out 1-8 Analog Out 9-16
N/A N/A N/A N/A
N/A N/A N/A N/A
Aurora 16: 16-
channel mode
Causes LEDS on
Aurora Front
panel to flash
Port A Digital In
(1-8)
Port A Digital Out
(1-8)/ Analog Out
9-16*
* In 16-channel mode, play streams sent to AES/EBU Out
1-8 will be mirrored through Analog Outputs 9-16. If both
output ports are connected to monitoring equipment, you
may need to mute one of them to avoid duplicate playback.
Aurora 16: 32-channel mode
192 I/O #1
(channels 1-8)
Causes LEDS on
Aurora Front
panel to flash
Port A Digital In
(1-8)
Port A Digital
Out (1-8)
192 I/O #2
(channels 9-16)
Port B Digital In
Port B Digital
Out (9-16)
N/A
(9-16)
Page 13
S/PDIF
Format
Port
Settings
Ext. Clock
Output
i
o
a
Aurora 16:
Aurora 8
i
o
a
* EXT/2 and EXT/4 clock rates are not supported in the early revisions of the
LT-HD firmware.
N/A N/A N/A N/A
N/A N/A N/A N/A
When set to
project rate =
EXT
When set to 1/2
of project rate =
EXT/2*
When set to 1/4
of project rate =
EXT/2 + EXT*
16-channel
mode
When set to
project rate =
EXT
When set to 1/2
of project rate =
EXT/2*
When set to 1/4
of project rate =
EXT/2 + EXT*
Aurora 16: 32-channel mode
192 I/O #1
(channels 1-8)
When set to
project rate =
EXT
When set to 1/2
of project rate =
EXT/2*
When set to 1/4
of project rate =
EXT/2 + EXT*
192 I/O #2
(channels 9-16)
N/A
Page 14
s
d
f
Analog In:
Ref. Level
Analog In:
Input
Trims
Soft Clip f
Analog
Out:
Output
Trims
Aurora 8
s
alter the trims for
d
alter the trims for
*Aurora trims are activated in banks of 4-channels. Therefore, only channels 1,
5, 9 and 13 in the ProTools software will be responded to by the Aurora.
N/A N/A N/A N/A
A = +4 dBu
(default) B = -10
dBV. Ch 1 will
Aurora channels
1-4. Ch. 5 will
Aurora channels
5-8. Ch. 2-4 and
Ch. 6-8 are non-
functional*.
N/A N/A N/A N/A
A = +4 dBu
(default) B = -10
dBV. Same
functionality as
the Analog In
Trims – active
channels are 1
and 5*.
Aurora 16: 16-
channel mode
A = +4 dBu (default)
B = -10 dBV. Ch 1
will alter the trims
for Aurora channels
1-4. Ch. 5 will alter
the trims for Aurora
channels 5-8. Ch. 2-4
and Ch. 6-8 are non-
functional*.
Similarly, for
channels 9-16, Ch. 9
and Ch. 13 are the
active controls.
A = +4 dBu (default)
B = -10 dBV Same
functionality as the
Analog In Trims –
active channels are 1,
5, 9 and 13*. Note:
in this mode trims
cannot be set for
Analog outputs 9-16.
Aurora 16: 32-channel mode
192 I/O #1
(channels 1-8)
A = +4 dBu
(default) B = -10
dBV. Ch 1 will
alter the trims for
Aurora channels
1-4. Ch. 5 will
alter the trims for
Aurora channels
5-8. Ch. 2-4 and
Ch. 6-8 are non-
functional*.
A = +4 dBu
(default) B = -10
dBV. Same
functionality as
the Analog In
Trims – active
channels are 1
and 5*.
192 I/O #2
(channels 9-16)
A = +4 dBu
(default) B = -10
dBV. Ch 1 will
alter the trims for
Aurora channels
9-12. Ch. 5 will
alter the trims for
Aurora channels
13-16. Ch. 2-4
and Ch. 6-8 are
non-functional*.
A = +4 dBu
(default) B = -10
dBV Same
functionality as
the Analog In
Trims – active
channels are 1
and 5*.
Page 15
h
g
Input
Format
SR
Conversion
After selecting which I/O devices will occupy each of the 16 input and output channels available
on the hardware setup page, these devices can then be assigned to ProTools record and play
channels and labeled from the I/O Setup page
g
h
Aurora 8
N/A N/A N/A N/A
44.1 kHz- 96
kHz = N/A
176.4 kHz –
192 kHz =
toggles dual-
wire On/Off.
When On, all
AES inputs and
outputs will be
in dual-wire
mode – channel
count is
reduced by ½.
Aurora 16 : 16-
channel mode
44.1 kHz- 96kHz =
N/A
176.4kHz – 192kHz
= toggles dual-wire
On/Off. When On,
all AES inputs and
outputs will be in
dual-wire mode –
channel count is
reduced by ½.
Aurora 16: 32-channel mode
192 I/O #1
(channels 1-8)
44.1 kHz- 96kHz
= N/A
176.4kHz –
192kHz = toggles
dual-wire On/Off.
When On, all
AES inputs and
outputs will be in
dual-wire mode –
channel count is
reduced by ½.
192 I/O #2
(channels 9-16)
N/A
Page 16
9.2 I/O Setup Page
This page within the ProTools software is where active input and output devices that are defined
in the hardware setup page are assigned to record and play channels for use by tracks and busses
within ProTools.
Click on the INPUT, OUTPUT, and INSERT Tabs and click “default” to create signal paths
based on the I/O defined in the Hardware Setup page. Afterwards, it is generally helpful to relabel these paths to correspond to Aurora channels (i.e. Aurora Analog In 2, Aurora Digital Out
3, etc.) or to the name of front-end devices which are plugged into the Aurora (i.e. Mic Preamps,
Mixer outputs, etc.).
In cases where the ProTools labels do not define the Aurora I/O type used (i.e. Analog Out 9-16
accessed as AES/EBU Out 1-8 in 16-channel mode), labels can be created here for clarification.
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10 Aurora Parameter Controls
Since the Aurora with an LT-HD installed is intended to be accessed and identified as a
Digidesign 192 I/O, all routing and system settings that are applicable for ProTools sessions
should be initiated from within ProTools. There is no mechanism for parameter changes initiated
from the interface device to be communicated and correctly displayed within the ProTools
software.
When the ProTools software is launched and correctly identifies the Aurora as a 192 I/O, the
Aurora will enter a “ProTools LockOut” state, where some controls can only be initiated from
within the ProTools software. When the ProTools software is closed, the Aurora will return to its
former state, and allow manipulation from the front panel or from the Aurora Remote Control
software.
10.1 Front Panel Controls
When in the “ProTools LockOut” state, the Aurora front panel will reflect the following:
q SAMPLE RATE
This button will not be active. The current, operating sample rate will be indicated by the
corresponding LED. When the sample rate is changed from within ProTools, the display will
update to show the current rate.
w SYNC SOURCE
This button will not be active. The LED for the sync source which has been selected from within
ProTools will illuminate. When the ProTools software is first launched, the Aurora will be set to
Internal automatically. From that point forward, whatever sync source is selected from the
Hardware Setup within ProTools will become active whenever the software is launched. In this
context, the applicable choices are:
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.
When ProTools is set for the clock to operate at ¼ of the target sample rate, both the
EXT and EXT/2 LEDs will illuminate, indicating EXT/4 operation. (please note:
EXT/X operation is not supported with early versions of the LT-HD firmware).
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.
Page 18
AES B This is not a possible setting when using an Aurora 16 with ProTools. If the Aurora is
to slave to an AES signal, the clock source should be connected to AES I/O 1-8 (Port
A).
Aurora 8 Clock signal from the AES inputs 5-8.
LSLOT Not applicable when used with the LT-HD.
If no clock signal is available for the SYNC SOURCE selected, the LED for the selected source
will flash, and the Aurora will operate from its internal clock.
To disable SynchroLock, hold down the Sync Source button for ½ of a second. This must be
done prior to launching ProTools.
e SynchroLock
This LED will function normally. See the Aurora manual for information. To disable
SynchroLock, hold down the Sync Source button for ½ of a second prior to launching ProTools.
r TO ANALOG OUT
This button will not be active. LSLOT IN will be illuminated when in “ProTools LockOut”
mode. In an Aurora16, hold this button down for ½ second in order to toggle between 16-channel
and 32-channel mode before launching ProTools.
t TO DIGITAL OUT
This button will not be active. LSLOT IN will be illuminated when in “ProTools LockOut”
mode.
y IR/MIDI
This LED will function normally. See the Aurora manual for information.
u PEAK METERS
These LEDs will function normally. See the Aurora manual for information.
i IR Transceiver
This will function normally. See the Aurora manual for information.
o METER
This button will function normally. See the Aurora manual for information.
a TRIM/AES MODE
When the meter select switch is set to analog, this button normally allows the nominal trim level
to be set for the analog inputs and outputs. In “ProTools LockOut” mode, this button will not be
active, but the Aurora will remain in whatever trim state it was in when ProTools was launched.
If the trim value for any analog I/O is altered from within ProTools, both the +4 dBu and –10
dBV LEDs will be illuminated, indicating that this parameter is being controlled remotely.
When the METER select is set to “Digital”, this control allows configuration of the AES/EBU
digital I/O. In “ProTools LockOut” mode, the button will not be active, but the LEDs will reflect
the dual-wire state for the digital inputs and outputs.
s POWER
This button will function normally. See the Aurora manual for information.
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10.2 Aurora Remote Control Software
The Aurora Remote Control software can operate on an OSX or Windows PC computer via a
Lynx AES16 audio interface or MIDI. It can also operate on a Windows PC computer via IR. As
is the case with the front panel controls, parameter selection is limited when the Aurora is
operating in “ProTools LockOut” mode.
In this mode some parameters will be “locked out” and not alterable, and others will function
normally. This holds true for all of the controls detailed in Section 10.1, as well as for functions
that are only accessible from the Aurora Remote Control software. This chart documents the
behavior of the Remote Control software features while in “ProTools LockOut” mode:
Item Description Status
q
w
e
r
t
Analog Input and Output Meters Functional
Analog Input and Output Trim Settings Locked Out
Analog Output Monitor Source A and B monitor source selection Locked Out
Analog Output Monitor Source A and B volume faders Locked Out
Analog Output Monitor Source A and B mute controls Locked Out
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Item Description Status
y
u
i
o
a
s
d
f
g
h
j
k
l
;
2)
Digital Input and Output Meters Functional
Digital Output Monitor Source A and B monitor source selection Locked Out
Digital Output Monitor Source A and B volume faders Locked Out
Digital Output Monitor Source A and B mute controls Locked Out
Digital Input Signal Status Functional
Sync Source Locked Out
Sample Rate Locked Out
To Analog Out Locked Out
To Digital Out Locked Out
To LSlot Out Locked Out
Front Panel Meter Source Functional
Dual Wire In Locked Out
Dual Wire Out Locked Out
SynchroLock Locked Out
SynchroLock Status Functional
Page 21
11 Updating the firmware on the LT-HD
Updating the firmware on the LT-HD uses the same process as updating the firmware on the
Aurora. With Aurora Firmware updater revision 14 or above, a properly installed LT-HD can be
selected as the device to program.
Instructions for downloading and running the Aurora Update program for Windows or OSX are
available at: http://www.lynxstudio.com/download.html.
At the Aurora Firmware Update screen, simply select the LT-HD from the “Select Unit to
Update” pulldown menu, and click “Update” to run. If the LT-HD does not appear as an option
here, verify that the LT-HD is properly installed and the Current Aurora firmware revision is 14
or higher.
When the update process is complete, it is important to press the Power button to shut down the
Aurora AND then disconnect the Aurora from its power source.
The LT-HD is equipped with two EEPROMS that store the Aurora firmware. The first provides a
protected backup that has been programmed at the factory, and the second is able to be
programmed via the Aurora Update program. A jumper on the LT-HD board determines which
EEPROM is active. After programming the LT-HD for the first time, it is essential to remove the
Aurora lid and check the status of jumper block JP2. If pins 1 and 2 are capped, than the LT-HD
is operating off of the protected backup. In this case, place the jumper shunt over pins 2 and 3 for
the new firmware to become active on the LT-HD. If jumper pins 2 and 3 are already capped,
you do not need to make any change.
Page 22
12 Specifications
DIGILINK PORTS
Number / Type
Channels
CLOCK SYNCHRONIZATION
Clock Sources
ARCHITECTURE
Core
Pro Tools
Controls
Delay
Compensation
CONNECTIONS
I/O Ports
Other
GENERAL
Host Interface
Requirements
EMI
Certifications
Shipping Weight
One Primary, One Expansion
Aurora 8: 16 channels at all supported sample rates
Aurora 16 - 16-channel mode: 16 channels at all supported sample
rates
Aurora 16 - 32-channel mode: 32 channels at all supported sample
rates
On Aurora: Compatible with DigiLink sources: Internal, Wordclock,
Wordclock X2, Wordclock X4, AES
FPGA-based core. Support for field upgrades of firmware.
Responds to the following parameters manipulated from within the
ProTools software: Clock Source, Analog and Digital I/O routing,
Wordclock X2 and Wordclock X4, Sample Rates, Identify, Trim
Levels, Dual-Wire/Single-Wire AES.
Emulates 192 I/O latency performance, no manual delay settings
required.
(2) Bracket-mounted DigiLink connectors.
LStream interface headers
Lynx proprietary LSlot™ Interface: 400 Mbps bi-directional
Aurora 16/Aurora 8 with Firmware Revision 14 or higher and
available LSlot expansion slot.
Size
3.0” H X 5.0” W X 0.75” D
FCC and CE
1 pound
Page 23
13 Support
We are devoted to making your experience with the LT-HD trouble-free and productive. If the
troubleshooting and operational sections of this manual did not help resolve your questions, several
support options are available to you:
13.1 Lynx Website Support Resources
Logging on to http://www.lynxstudio.com/support.html will provide several options for resolving your
support issues:
Support Ticket
For direct attention from the Lynx Technical Support Staff, registered users can submit a support
ticket online that details their problem and steps they’ve taken to resolve it. Most Support Ticket
submissions are responded to within 24 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
An extensive catalog of FAQs derived directly from our most common tech support inquiries.
Our FAQ section is updated regularly and designed to allow users to find the answers to their
most common questions quickly.
Firmware and Driver Downloads
A library of current firmware and driver files are available for download and installation. Check
back regularly to insure that your Aurora is up-to-date.
Lynx Support Forum
An online Lynx users support forum provides a venue for customers to post questions and issues
and receive responses from other users as well as Lynx technical administrators. Searching
previous posts is often an excellent way to uncover valuable information about Aurora operation
and troubleshooting. See http://www.lynxstudio.com/forum
.
13.2 Telephone Support
Telephone support is available by calling +1 (949) 515-8265 extension 206 from 9AM to 5PM Pacific
Time, Monday through Friday, excluding United States Holidays.
13.3 Registering your LT-HD
Lynx is committed to providing you with the best service possible. To help us serve you better, please be
sure to register your LT-HD using one of the following methods:
Fill out and mail the Warranty Registration Card included with your LT-HD.
Register on the web at: http://www.lynxstudio.com/support.html
Once you are registered you will automatically receive notifications of new products and upgrades.
13.4 Return Policy
If you have a unit that you suspect is defective or is malfunctioning contact Lynx technical support via
one of the means described above for diagnosis. If the technician determines that the unit is faulty, they
will issue an RMA number so you can send the unit in for repair. Units received without a valid RMA
number will be refused. All RMA numbers are valid for 30 days from the date of issue.
Page 24
14 Warranty Information
One year Free Labor / One year Parts Exchange
This product must be returned to the factory for repair.
Who Is Covered?
You must have proof of purchase to receive warranty service. A sales receipt or other document showing
when and where you purchased the product is consider proof of purchase. This warranty is enforceable
only by the original retail purchaser. To be protected by this warranty, the purchaser must complete and
return the enclosed warranty card or register online within 14 days of purchase.
What Is Covered?
Warranty coverage beings the day you buy your product. For one year thereafter, Lynx shall, at its sole
and absolute option, either repair or replace free of charge any product that proves to be defective on
inspection by Lynx or its authorized service representative. In all cases disputes concerning this warranty
shall be resolved as prescribed by law. All parts, including repaired and replaced parts, are covered only
for the original warranty period. When the warranty on the product expires, the warranty on all replaced
and repaired parts also expires.
What Is Excluded?
You warranty does not cover:
• Labor charges for installation or setup of the product.
• Product repair and/or part replacement because of misuse, accident, unauthorized repair or other
cause not within the control of Lynx.
• A product that requires modification or adaptation to enable it to operate in any country other than the
country for which it was designed, manufactured, approved and/or authorized, or repair of products
damaged by these modifications.
• Incidental or consequential damages result from the product, damage to property, damage based on
inconvenience or on loss of use of the product, and, to the extent permitted by law, damages for
personal injury. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential
damages, so the above limitation or exclusion may not apply to you.
• A product that is used for rental purposes.
To Get Warranty Service…
To obtain warranty service, the purchaser must first call or email Lynx at the email address or telephone
number printed in Section 12 to obtain a Return Authorization Number and instructions concerning where
to return the unit for service. All inquiries must be accompanied by a description of the problem. All
authorized returns must be sent to Lynx or an authorized Lynx repair facility postage prepaid insured and
properly packaged. Proof of purchase must be presented in the form of a bill of sale, canceled check or
some other positive proof that the product is within the warranty period. Lynx reserves the right to update
any unit returned for repair. Lynx reserves the right to change or improve design of the product at any
time without prior notice.
Lynx Studio Technology, Aurora and the Aurora Logo are trademarks of Lynx Studio Technology, Inc.
All other product or company names are the trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective
owners. Digidesign, ProTools. ProTools|HD are trademarks of Digidesign, a division of Avid
Technologies, Inc.
LT-HD™ User Manual, August 21, 2006.
Copyright © 1998-2007, Lynx Studio Technology, Inc. All rights reserved.
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