Mackie D8B3.0 User Manual

DIGITAL 8•BUS

OWNER’S MANUAL

Version 3.0

™

MACKIE’S 56-INPUT, 72-CHANNEL, FULLY AUTOMATED DIGITAL AUDIO MIXING CONSOLE

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

1. Read Instructions — All the safety and operation instructions should be read before this Mackie product is operated.

2. Retain Instructions — The safety and operating instructions should be kept for future reference.

3. Heed Warnings — All warnings on this Mackie product and in these operating instructions should be followed.

4. Follow Instructions — All operating and other instructions should be followed.

5. Water and Moisture — This Mackie product should not be used near water – for example, near a bathtub, washbowl, kitchen sink, laundry tub, in a wet basement, near a swimming pool, swamp, or salivating St. Bernard dog, etc.

6. Ventilation — This Mackie product should be situated so that its location or position does not interfere with its proper ventilation. For example, the Component should not be situated on a bed, sofa, rug, or similar surface that may block any ventilation openings, or placed in a built-in installation such as a bookcase or cabinet that may impede the flow of air through ventilation openings.

7. Heat — This Mackie product should be situated away from heat sources such as radiators or other devices which produce heat.

PORTABLE CART WARNING

Carts and stands - The Component should be used only with a cart or stand that is recommended by the manufacturer. A Component and cart combination should be moved with care. Quick stops, excessive force, and uneven surfaces may cause the Component and cart combination to overturn.

8. Power Sources — This Mackie product should be connected to a power supply only of the type described in these operating instructions or as marked on this Mackie product.

9. Power Cord Protection — Power supply cords should be routed so that they are not likely to be walked upon or pinched by items placed upon or against them, paying particular attention to cords at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit this Mackie product.

10. Object and Liquid Entry — Care should be taken so that objects do not fall into and liquids are not spilled into this Mackie product.

11. Damage Requiring Service — This Mackie product should be serviced only by qualified service personnel when:

A. The power-supply cord or the plug has been damaged; or B. Objects have fallen, or liquid has spilled into this Mackie

product; or

C. This Mackie product has been exposed to rain; or D. This Mackie product does not appear to operate normally or

exhibits a marked change in performance; or E. This Mackie product has been dropped, or its chassis

damaged.

12. Servicing — The user should not attempt to service this Mackie product beyond those means described in this operating manual. All other servicing should be referred to the Mackie Service Department.

13. Do not remove the cover on the console. It is permissible to remove the outer cover on the Remote CPU to install accessory cards. Do not remove the inner power supply cover.

14. To prevent electric shock, do not use this polarized plug with an extension cord, receptacle, or other outlet unless the blades can be fully inserted to prevent blade exposure.

Pour prévenir les chocs électriques ne pas utiliser cette fiche polariseé avec un prolongateur, un prise de courant ou une autre sortie de courant, sauf si les lames peuvent être insérées à fond sans laisser aucune pariie à découvert.

15. Grounding or Polarization — Precautions should be taken so that the grounding or polarization means of this Mackie product is not defeated.

16. This apparatus does not exceed the Class A/Class B (whichever is applicable) limits for radio noise emissions from digital apparatus as set out in the radio interference regulations of the Canadian Department of Communications.

ATTENTION —Le présent appareil numérique n’émet pas de bruits radioélectriques dépassant las limites applicables aux appareils numériques de class A/de class B (selon le cas) prescrites dans le règlement sur le brouillage radioélectrique édicté par les ministere des communications du Canada.

FCC Information

NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply

with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at his own expense.

WARNING — To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this appliance to rain or moisture.

Note: The following notice concerns the lithium battery located on the motherboard inside the Remote CPU.

CAUTION: DANGER OF EXPLOSION IF BATTERY IS INCORRECTLY REPLACED. REPLACE ONLY WITH THE SAME OR

EQUIVALENT TYPE RECOMMENDED BY THE MANUFACTURER. DISPOSE OF USED BATTERIES ACCORDING TO THE MANUFACTURER’S INSTRUCTIONS.

ATTENTION: IL Y A DANGER D’EXPLOSION S’IL Y A REMPLACEMENT INCORRECT DE LA BATTERIE, REMPLACER UNIQUEMENT AVEC UNE BATTERIE DU MEME TYPE OU D’UN TYPE ÉQUIVALENT RECOMMANDÉ PAR LE CONSTRUCTEUR. METTRE AU REBUT LES BATTERIES USAGÉES CONFORMÉMENT AUX INSTRUCTIONS DU FABRICANT.

Statement of Conformity

Mackie Designs’ Digital 8•Bus has been tested and conforms to the following standards and directives of the European Council:

73/23/EEC Low Voltage Directive with amendments

91/263/EEC, 89/392/EEC, and 89/336/EEC 89/336/EEC EMC Directive IEC 950(1991)/EN60950:1992 Electrical Safety Requirements EN55103-1 and EN55103-2 Residential (E1) and Commercial (E2) Environments

Table of Contents

Preface.................................................................................................................................... 1

Chapter 1: Getting Ready ................................................................................................. 3

Introduction .................................................................................................................................................................... 4

About This Manual ............................................................................................................................................ 4

Let’s Get It Working.......................................................................................................................................... 4

Hooking Stuff Up ............................................................................................................................................... 4

A New Way of Thinking: Four Consoles in One!................................................................................... 7

Fader Bank Selection........................................................................................................................................ 8

Let’s Get Some Sound Happening ..............................................................................................................8

Figure 1-1 Completing the Microphone Signal Path ....................................................................................................... 9

Signal Routing Concept ................................................................................................................................ 10

Figure 1-2 Simple Microphone Connection/Basic Live Setup ................................................................................... 11

Figure 1-3 Setting Up to Track ................................................................................................................................................11

Figure 1-4 Basic Mixdown Setup .......................................................................................................................................... 12

Keep Close Track of These Concepts...................................................................................................... 12

Figure 1-5 Signal-Flow Diagram ............................................................................................................................................. 13

Figure 1-6 D8B Block Diagram ...............................................................................................................................................14

Figure 1-7 D8B Gain Structure Diagram ............................................................................................................................. 16

Specifications.................................................................................................................................................... 17

Physical Dimensions ....................................................................................................................................... 18

Updating Software .......................................................................................................................................... 19

Windows-based Computers..................................................................................................................................................19

Macintosh Computers ............................................................................................................................................................. 19

Summary ............................................................................................................................................................ 20

Chapter 2: Where Is it?..................................................................................................... 21

It’s Time to Locate Everything ...............................................................................................................................22

Rear Panel Description .............................................................................................................................................22

Channels 1–12 Inputs ...................................................................................................................................... 22

Channels 13–24 Inputs ...................................................................................................................................22

Card Cage Section...........................................................................................................................................22

Master Input/Output Section................................................................................................................... 23

AUX OUT Section ...........................................................................................................................................24

Remote CPU Description.........................................................................................................................................25

Data and Synchronization I/O ..................................................................................................................25

Connecting a Mouse, Keyboard and SVGA Monitor.........................................................................25

Other Connections .........................................................................................................................................25

Control Surface Functions ..................................................................................................................................... 26

Channel Strip Section ................................................................................................................................... 26

Master Section Description .................................................................................................................................. 28

Master Fader/Bank Select Section ......................................................................................................... 28

Master V-Pot Section.................................................................................................................................... 29

V-Pot Assign Section ......................................................................................................................................30

Figure 2-1 Aux Sends 1-8 (Default—Mackie Stereo Effects [MFX]) .......................................................................... 31

Fat Channel Section........................................................................................................................................ 32

D8B Manual • Table of Contents • page i

Studio/Solo Section ...................................................................................................................................... 33

Phones/Cue Mix Section ............................................................................................................................. 34

Control Room Section ..................................................................................................................................34

Clipboard Section ........................................................................................................................................... 35

Master L-R/Shortcuts Section ..................................................................................................................36

Bus Assignment Section................................................................................................................................36

Automation Section ....................................................................................................................................... 36

Session Setup Section ...................................................................................................................................38

Transport Section ............................................................................................................................................39

Chapter 3: What’s On TV?................................................................................................ 41

Using the Graphic User Interface (GUI).............................................................................................................42

The Beauty of It….............................................................................................................................................42

The Master Strip .............................................................................................................................................. 47

Signal Path Flexibility .................................................................................................................................... 49

May I See A Menu Please......................................................................................................................................... 51

The File Menu ................................................................................................................................................... 51

The Edit Menu................................................................................................................................................... 53

The Channel Menu .......................................................................................................................................... 56

The Options Menu ..........................................................................................................................................59

Automation Sub-menu...........................................................................................................................................................60

Transport Sub-menu .................................................................................................................................................................61

The Plugins Menu ............................................................................................................................................ 61

The Windows Menu........................................................................................................................................ 63

The Desktop Window (Ctrl+D) ................................................................................................................. 64

The Setup Window (Ctrl+1) .................................................................................................................................................. 64

General ............................................................................................................................................................................... 64

MDS Network ................................................................................................................................................................... 64

Digital I/O ......................................................................................................................................................................... 65

Licensing ............................................................................................................................................................................. 66

Mix Options ...................................................................................................................................................................... 66

Locator-MMC ...................................................................................................................................................................68

FTP Server .......................................................................................................................................................................... 68

The Snapshot Window (Ctrl+2)........................................................................................................................................... 69

The Surround Window (Ctrl+3) ........................................................................................................................................... 70

The Locator Window (Ctrl+4)...............................................................................................................................................74

The Mix Editor Window (Ctrl+5) ........................................................................................................................................ 75

The Fat Channel Window (Ctrl+6) ..................................................................................................................................... 78

The Panning Window (Ctrl+7) .............................................................................................................................................. 82

The Faders Window (Ctrl+8) ................................................................................................................................................ 82

Event Automation Track (Ctrl+9) ........................................................................................................................................ 83

The History List Window (Ctrl+H)...................................................................................................................................... 84

The MIDI Map Window (Ctrl+ –)........................................................................................................................................ 85

Erase UFX Memory... ................................................................................................................................................................86

Upgrade UFX Cards.................................................................................................................................................................. 86

D8B Manual • Table of Contents • page ii

Chapter 4: Applications .................................................................................................. 87

Setting Up for a Session .......................................................................................................................................... 88

Listening Environment.................................................................................................................................. 88

Channel Configuration/Planning............................................................................................................. 88

Power-up Procedure ...................................................................................................................................... 88

Figure 4-1 Power-up Procedure............................................................................................................................................ 88

Figure 4-2 Basic Connection for Multitrack Recording .............................................................................................. 89

Setup Window ................................................................................................................................................. 89

Installation and Connection of Optional I/O and Effects Cards................................................ 91

Installation of FX Cards................................................................................................................................ 92

Installation of I/O Cards .............................................................................................................................. 93

Checklist for Basic Operational Functionality ...................................................................................94

Connecting Analog Multitrack(s)............................................................................................................. 94

Connecting ADAT (Lightpipe) Multitrack(s) ........................................................................................ 94

Connecting TASCAM (TDIF) Multitrack(s) .............................................................................................95

Multitrack Recording .................................................................................................................................... 96

Multitrack Tracking Checklist .............................................................................................................................................. 97

Sample Tracking Setup ............................................................................................................................... 100

Mixdown Setup ..............................................................................................................................................102

Effects/Plug-ins ............................................................................................................................................ 104

Dynamics and EQ Applications .............................................................................................................. 106

MIDI and the D8B ..........................................................................................................................................107

Word Clock and the D8B – The Kitchen Sync .................................................................................. 108

Dither – To UV22 or Not to UV22: That Is the Question............................................................... 111

D8B–HDR24/96 Setup ................................................................................................................................112

Using the Digital 8•Bus with ADATs ........................................................................................................ 117

Connecting the Digital 8•Bus to a BRC and ADATs ..........................................................................118

Connecting the Digital 8•Bus to ADATs Using an External Sync Box.......................................120

Connecting the D8B to TASCAM MDMs ............................................................................................. 122

Digital Audio Workstation Setup ...........................................................................................................124

Live Sound/Live Recording Setup .........................................................................................................126

Post-Production Setup ................................................................................................................................128

Bouncing/Summing Using Bus Outs ..................................................................................................... 128

Using Basic Automation..............................................................................................................................129

Automation Procedural Checklists ........................................................................................................ 132

Appendices ........................................................................................................................ 133

Appendix A: Service................................................................................................................................................. 134

Appendix B: IVL Vocal Studio .............................................................................................................................. 136

About the IVL Vocal Studio....................................................................................................................... 136

The Interface ...................................................................................................................................................136

Operation–Harmony ...................................................................................................................................138

Operation–Pitch Correction .................................................................................................................... 142

Appendix C: Plug-in Configuration and Routing.......................................................................................... 144

Appendix D: Shortcuts............................................................................................................................................150

Appendix E: MIDI Implementation Guide ...................................................................................................... 153

Appendix F: Compatible Cables.......................................................................................................................... 154

Colophon ..................................................................................................................................................................... 163

Index.................................................................................................................................... 156

D8B Manual • Table of Contents • page iii

Preface

he Mackie Digital 8•Bus is an amazing digital audio tool. Its flexibility, depth, and creative pizazz

provides the engineer/artist with nearly limitless freedom to produce top quality work.

The D8B Version 3.0 upgrade offers a host of new features that can make your mixes sound better and

speed your workflow. Here’s a list of the newest features of the Mackie OS Version 3.0.

WHAT'S NEW WITH 3.0

• Third-party plug-ins via the Mackie UFX card

• Enhanced dynamics

• Input keying and EQ filter

• Soft knee compression toggle

• 48-channel overview screen

• 999 levels of Undo

• Automation Cut, Copy, and Paste

• 24-bit Alt I/O

• Advanced Mix Editor features including: New view-sizing arrows

Auto-loop SMPTE time code boxes

Loop-in/loop-out and Locate markers in the

time bar Contextual right mouse click for track

parameters and time bars

Event Automation Track

• Enhanced Surround Sound mixing environment

with:

Depth of Center Control

Surround LFE Gain Control for each channel

Surround-corrected bus/track assignment

Surround Front-to-Rear Pan Control via

control surface or MIDI Surround GUI update—new 72-channel

overview

• Triumphant Return of the Desktop—drag and drop file management between File windows

• Enhanced, flexible MIDI I/O mapping for all channel strip and master section parameters

• Assignable MIDI commands on transport (REW, FF, STOP, PLAY, REC) and on the D8B master control section

• Insert and patch point feature on channels— source either plug-ins, 8 aux sends, 8 buses, or 72 channels (pre-DSP only)

• 24-bit plug-in inserts across Main L/R buses

• Time offset (delay) on each channel 1-48 with 255 samples

• Channel Layout assigns channel strips in various orders

• Non-destructive Ungrouping

• Optional fader control of level to tape—direct out signal follows the source fader channel

• Multiple direct outs per channel

• Snapshot Library

• Pre/Post assignment of each aux send on each channel

• Improved BBT resolution and clocking accuracy

D8B Manual • Preface • page 1

D8B Manual • Preface • page 2

Chapter 1

Getting Ready

D8B Manual • Chapter 1 • page 3

Introduction

his Guide reflects the newest and most progressive features and options available

on the Mackie Digital 8•Bus. The D8B is designed to grow with the audio industry. Each software revision provides new features and capabilities, updating your console and ensuring that your investment remains current for many years to come.

An increasing number of other manufacturers have jumped on the D8B band wagon. Through affiliations with companies like Apogee, TC Electronics, Massenburg, dbx, and Antares, Mackie Designs has provided an environment where third-party plug-ins let you design the perfect system for your needs—all within the Digital 8•Bus architecture!

Let’s Get It Working

This is a step-by-step guide to get the Digital 8•Bus working. We assume you’ve pulled everything out of the box and are ready to start working.

First, you’ll need:

• 1 Stereo Power Amplifier

• 1 pair of Monitor Speakers (you can substitute a pair of powered monitors for the power amplifier/ monitor speaker combo, or some stereo headphones)

• Miscellaneous cables

• 1 cup of coffee (we think any native Seattle-based beverage heightens the Mackie experience)

Hooking Stuff Up

First, connect the Remote CPU to the console.

About This Manual

This manual is the “let’s just do it” guide. Each chapter covers an important consideration:

• Chapter 1 describes basic setup procedures with an emphasis on achieving successful routing of an audio source to your monitors.

• Chapter 2 briefly describes all surface controls.

• Chapter 3 describes the on-screen interface.

• Chapter 4 highlights some typical applications.

If you’d like to move ahead at light-speed, try jumping directly to Chapter 4, using Chapters 2 and 3 as a reference. If you crave details, or if you’re new to recording—especially digital recording—don’ t forget to check out our website for more info at www .mackie.com.

TAPE 1-8 TAPE 9-16 TAPE 17-24

OUT

ANALOG I/O

BUS OUT 1-8

SURROUND OUT

ANALOG IN ANALOG OUT

MASTER OUT

WARNING:

SHUT OFF REMOTE POWER SUPPLY BEFORE CONNECTING

OR DISCONNECTING POWER SUPPLY CABLE FROM CONSOLE

POWER SUPPLY

WARNING:

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT

CAUTION

EXPOSE THIS EQUIPMENT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE. DO NOT REMOVE COVER. NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL.

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

AVIS:

RISQUE DE CHOC ÉLECTRIQUE — NE PAS OUVRIR

UTILISE UN FUSIBLE DE RECHANGE DE MÊME TYPE.

REPLACE WITH THE SAME TYPE FUSE AND RATING.

DEBRANCHER AVANT DE REMPLACER LE FUSIBLE

DISCONNECT SUPPLY CORD BEFORE CHANGING FUSE

WARNING: SHUT OFF POWER TO UNIT BEFORE INSTALLING OR REMOVING CARDS!

INPUT72 CHANNEL

CONSOLE

DATA

SERIAL NUMBER

DIGITAL MIXER

A B C D

MANUFACTURING DATE

DIGITAL EFFECTS CARDS DIGITAL I/O SYNC ALT I/O TAPE IN/OUTS

DIGITAL I/O

OUT

AES/EBU

S/PDIF

1. Connect the DC power cable between the Remote CPU and the console. Rotate the outer sleeve of the connector clockwise until the sleeve is snug and finger-tight.

Caution: The Remote CPU weighs 42 pounds, so we recommend that if you mount it in a rack, you place it at the bottom of the rack and provide additional support at the rear of the unit.

LINE INPUTS

(BAL/UNBAL)

172418

MASTER OUT

CR MAIN LR

NEAR FIELD

THIS DEVICE COMPLIES WITH PART 15 OF THE FCC RULES. OPERATION IS SUBJECT TO THE FOLLOWING TWO CONDITIONS:

1) THIS DEVICE MAY NOT CAUSE HARMFUL INTERFERENCE AND

2) THIS DEVICE MUST ACCEPT ANY INTERFERENCE RECEIVED THAT MAY CAUSE UNDESIRED OPERATION

PHONES 1

2 TRACK IN A

2 TRACK IN B

2 TRACK IN C

PUNCH I/O

MACKIE DESIGNS

+48V

MIC MIC10MIC9MIC8MIC7MIC6MIC5MIC4MIC3MIC2MIC1MIC

2014211522

STUDIO OUT

LINE IN

PHONES 2

INSERT

TALKBACK

AUX11AUX

+48V

LINE IN

INSERT

AUX8AUX9AUX

THE FOLLOWING ARE TRADEMARKS OR REGISTERED TRADEMARKS OF MACKIE DESIGN INC.: "MACKIE", "DIGITAL SYSTEMS", D8B AND THE "RUNNING MAN" FIGURE •

+48V

LINE IN

INSERT

AUX OUT

(BAL/UNBAL)

+48V

LINE IN

INSERT

AUX1AUX2AUX3AUX4AUX5AUX6AUX

PATENTS PENDING

Data Cable

DC Power

Cable

MACKIE DESIGNS

THIS DEVICE COMPLIES WITH PART 15 OF THE FCC RULES. OPERATION IS SUBJECT TO

THE FOLLOWING TWO CONDITIONS: 1) THIS DEVICE MAY NOT CAUSE HARMFUL

INTERFERENCE AND 2) THIS DEVICE MUST ACCEPT ANY INTERFERENCE RECEIVED THAT

MAY CAUSE UNDESIRED OPERATION

120V

60Hz, 2.8A

120/230V

1.0/0.5A

SERIAL NUMBER MANUFACTURING DATE

CONSOLE DATA

KEYBOARD

D8B Manual • Chapter 1 • page 4

PARALLEL

MOUSE

THE FOLLOWING ARE TRADEMARKS OR REGISTERED TRADEMARKS OF MACKIE DESIGN INC.: "MACKIE", "DIGITAL SYSTEMS", D8B AND THE "RUNNING MAN" FIGURE •

Multi-Sync Video Monitor

PC-Compatible Keyboard

PS/2 Mouse

CPU

PARALLEL

MIDI

CONSOLE DATA

MOUSE

Mouse

KEYBOARD

Keyboard

THE FOLLOWING ARE TRADEMARKS OR REGISTERED TRADEMARKS OF MACKIE DESIGN INC.: "MACKIE", "DIGITAL SYSTEMS", D8B AND THE "RUNNING MAN" FIGURE •

2. Connect the data cable between the Remote CPU and the console. Rotate the thumbscrews on each connector clockwise until they are finger tight.

3. Make sure the POWER switch on the Remote CPU is off.

4. Connect the detachable linecord to the Remote CPU. Shortly, we’ll connect to AC power .

Ethernet

Video

Next, connect the keyboard, mouse, and video monitor.

These connections are optional, but we strongly recommend using them to get the most from your new Digital 8•Bus console.

PARALLEL

CONSOLE DATA

MOUSE

KEYBOARD

THE FOLLOWING ARE TRADEMARKS OR REGISTERED TRADEMARKS OF MACKIE DESIGN INC.: "MACKIE", "DIGITAL SYSTEMS", D8B AND THE "RUNNING MAN" FIGURE •

D8B Manual • Chapter 1 • page 5

1. Plug a PC-compatible keyboard into the KEY BOARD port on the back of the Remote CPU.

2. Plug a PS/2 compatible mouse into the MOUSE port on the back of the Remote CPU.

3. Plug an SVGA video monitor into the VIDEO port on the back of the Remote CPU.

Note: We highly recommend the use of a multisync monitor; however , if one is unavailable you must use a monitor capable of at least a 72Hz scan rate. We recommend using a 17-inch or larger monitor for best results.

Now connect the audio inputs and outputs to the console.

1. Connect the CR NEAR FIELD or CR MAIN outputs on the back of the Digital 8•Bus to the line inputs of the power amplifier . These outputs are wired balanced when using a tip-ring-sleeve connector or unbalanced when using a tip-sleeve connector . Use instrument/line-level cable for this connection.

2. Connect monitor speakers to the output of the power amplifier using speaker cable. Always use high quality wire. The sound you hear will be more reliable and accurate.

MASTER OUT

MAIN

NEAR FIELD

Line Cable Line CableLine Cable Line Cable

Powered Monitors

Connect directly from CR NEARFIELD or CR MAIN to powered reference monitors using line-level cable.

MASTER OUT

Note: If you’re using powered monitors, connect the Left and Right CR NEAR FIELD outputs directly to the line inputs on the powered monitors.

Optional Refreshments

Have a sip of java and a biscotti.

Details

Make sure the POWER switch on the Remote CPU is off. Now plug the linecord into an AC outlet properly configured for your model. Leave the POWER switch off while connecting the peripheral equipment to the console.

Note: The Remote CPU should be treated as you would any computer. We recommend that you use a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) and a surge protector on the AC line.

Caution: Never connect or disconnect anything except microphone or line-level inputs while the console is powered up.

MAIN

NEAR FIELD

Line Cable Line Cable

Speaker Cable Speaker Cable

Non-powered

Monitors

Connect from D8B outputs to power amp using line cable, then from amp to non-powered speakers using speaker cable.

D8B Manual • Chapter 1 • page 6

T urn on the power switch on the front panel of the Remote CPU, then turn on the power to all your peripheral equipment. The Digital 8•Bus takes a few moments to load the Mackie Real Time OS (Operating System) and initialize the DSPs. When the Vacuum Fluorescent Display (VFD) in the onboard Fat Channel Section indicates EQ settings for channel 1, the console is ready to use.

These buttons let you access four completely different sets of controls, referred to as Fader Banks. Even though only one Fader Bank is accessible at a time, all four are fully functional at all times. Use of a computer monitor provides on-screen control of two fader banks at a time.

Fast Track Power-Up

1. Switch D8B power on.

2. V erify that SPEAKER LEVEL V-Pot is turned all the way down.

3. Switch on all peripherals (processors, recorders,

AST RACK

interfaces, etc.).

4. Switch on monitor amplifier or powered monitors.

A New Way of Thinking: Four Consoles in One!

With the Digital 8•Bus, what you get is way more than what you see at first glance. Directly above the Master L/R fader, locate four buttons labeled MIC/LINE, TAPE IN, EFFECTS, and MASTERS.

ls 1

-2

MASTERS

1-24

MIC/LINE

(TRACK) (MONITOR)

BANK SELECT

SHIFT

25-48

TAPE IN

49-72

EFFECTS

Now that you’ve got the Digital 8•Bus powered up, try the different fader banks.

• Press the MIC/LINE button and set up a random set of fader levels.

• Press the TAPE IN button and set up a completely different set of fader levels.

• Do the same for EFFECTS and MASTER.

MASTERS

1-24

MIC/LINE

Fader Bank 1

Channels 1-24

Mic/Line

Tracking

(TRACK) (MONITOR)

49-72

EFFECTS

BANK SELECT

SHIFT

25-48

TAPE IN

MASTERS

1-24

MIC/LINE

TAPE IN

(TRACK) (MONITOR)

49-72

EFFECTS

BANK SELECT

MASTERS

1-24

MIC/LINE

(TRACK) (MONITOR)

SHIFT

25-48

49-72

EFFECTS

BANK SELECT

SHIFT

25-48

TAPE IN

Fader Bank 2

Channels 25-48

ls 2

-4

-1

; A

-8

s 1

-8

; M

I 1

-8

; B

s 1

-8

Monitor/Tape In

Mixdown

Fader Bank 3

Channels 49-72

FX Return 1-16

ALT Return 1-8

Fader Bank 4

Virtual Groups 1-8 MIDI Controllers 1-8 Bus 1-8 Masters

MASTERS

1-24

MIC/LINE

TAPE IN

(TRACK) (MONITOR)

49-72

EFFECTS

BANK SELECT

SHIFT

25-48

D8B Manual • Chapter 1 • page 7

As you switch back and forth between all four fader banks, the faders will move to their respective settings for each bank. You’ll find that this becomes your most popular demonstration. Your friends will love it; your spouse will love it; your pet will be mildly amused.

This exercise demonstrates a process that will become second nature as you increase your skills on the Digital 8•Bus. The layered approach to digital mixing is actually very convenient, while at the same time providing tons of features in a compact package. This mixer contains more flexibility and features than most consoles taking up 12 or more feet of desk space and costing up to 50 times more!

Fader Bank Selection

• MIC/LINE button = Fader Bank 1

(Channels 1–24)

• T APE IN button = Fader Bank 2 (Channels 25–48)

• EFFECTS button = Fader Bank 3 (Channels 49–

72: Internal Effects Returns, FX 1–16, and ALT RET urns 1–8)

• MASTERS button = Fader Bank 4 (Virtual Groups

1–8, MIDI Controllers 1–8, Bus Masters 1–8)

This architecture provides a total of 56 inputs, with Fader Banks 1 and 2 providing 48 inputs, and the 8 ALT Returns in Fader Bank 3 providing another 8 inputs.

One of the primary applications the Digital 8•Bus was designed for is multitrack recording (generally up to 24 tracks). This involves tracking and monitoring, bouncing, overdubbing, and mixdown. You can think of Fader Bank 1 and Fader Bank 2 as two separate mixing consoles, where Fader Bank 1 is used for tracking and Fader Bank 2 is used for monitoring and mixdown.

T wo 24-track machines can easily be connected to the D8B for mixdown: one into the Fader Bank 1 line inputs, and the other into the Fader Bank 2 (T ape) I/O cards. This setup provides an amazing amount of control through automation, routing, and DSP!

Note: Although the D8B is perfectly set up for 24-track recording, it’ s possible to route channels to 46 outputs, all at the same time: 24 direct outputs (3 cards), 8 buses (Alt I/O), 2 main stereo outputs, and 12 auxes.

Let’s Get Some Sound Happening

• Mixer Power On.

• Monitors connected and on.

• Microphone or Instrument plugged into Channel One.

• Phantom Power button pushed in if required.

• Fader Bank 1 (MIC/LINE selected).

• Press the MIC button down when using a microphone; leave it up for an instrument.

• While sound source is active, adjust TRIM for a reading around –15 on the channel 1 meter .

• Select L–R in the ASSIGNMENT section, then verify that the ASSIGN button on Channel One lights up green.

• In the CONTROL ROOM section, select MASTER L–R.

• Select the desired SPEAKERS in the CONTROL ROOM section.

• Set the SPEAKER LEVEL V -pot to about 11:00.

• Turn the MASTER L/R fader up to unity.

• Slowly raise the level of the Channel One fader until you hear sound.

• The Master L/R meters should display levels.

• Rejoice in the sense of accomplishment while listening to crystal-clear audio.

Refer to Figure 1-1 for the Fast T rack Graphic

description of this procedure.

Details

1. Especially for digital connections, it’ s important that the Digital 8•Bus is powered up first. This procedure helps establish the mixer as a primary source in the digital sync scheme.

2. Be sure you’ve noted which output is connected to the monitor system(s) and be sure they’re powered up.

3. Be sure the microphone or instrument is plugged into Channel 1 and that Fader Bank 1 (MIC/LINE) is selected. It doesn’ t take long to get used to selecting the fader bank you really need to access; however, at first make a conscious effort to include this step in your routine.

4. Be sure the button below the gain trim labeled MIC is pressed down for a microphone or is in the up position for an instrument When working fast this button is sometimes overlooked. If it’s in the wrong position there won’ t be any signal to play with. That’s bad. Get in the habit of following the signal from the source to the destination—step by step. If you don’ t leave any steps out you’ll be successful every time.

AST

RACK

D8B Manual • Chapter 1 • page 8

Figure 1-1 Completing the Microphone Signal Path

Follow this graphic map to quickly complete a signal path using a microphone to capture the sound source..

Mic into

Power On

Speakers On and

Connected to Mixer

Mic Input

Phantom

power

Select Fader

Bank 1

MASTERS

MIC/LINE

SHIFT

1-24

25-48

TAPE IN

(TRACK) (MONITOR)

49-72

EFFECTS

BANK SELECT

AST

RACK

Mic Button

Down

MIC

Trim Up Until

Channel Meter Reads

Around –15 dBFS

TRIM

060

20dB +40dB

2 4

7 10 15 20 25 30 40 50 60

Select L/R in ASSIGNMENT, then

Verify Assign on Channel Strip

ASSIGNMENT

ASSIGN ASSIGN

ASSIGN

BUS 7

ASSIGN ASSIGN

L-R

BUS 2

BUS 8

ROUTE TO

TAPE

5. Start with gain TRIM down. While talking into the mic or playing the instrument, turn it up until the level stays around –15 to –10 on the channel one meter .

TRIM

060

+40dB

20dB

MIC

REC/RDY REC/RDY

ASSIGN

WRITE

ASSIGN

WRITE

Verify

MASTER L/R

2 TRACK C

MONO

NEAR FIELD

SPEAKER S

SPEAKER LEVEL

Select Monitors/Set V-pot Around 11:00

MASTER

L-R

MAIN

Master Fader

at Unity

MASTER

L/R

Raise Channel

Level to Hear

6. In the CONTROL ROOM section, press the MASTER L–R button so the yellow light comes on. Assigning this button sends whatever is coming from the MASTER L/R fader to the selected speakers.

CONTROL ROOM

2 TRACK A

2 TRACK B

2 TRACK C

DIGITAL IN 1

DIGITAL IN 2

MASTER

L-R

GROUP 1

FX 1

Note: The TRIM and MIC button status are two of the only controls that are not written into automation or snapshot data. That’ s a disadvantage of analog circuitry , but these controls are necessary. Running a strip of white safe-release tape across the top label strip allows for careful recording of each channel’ s TRIM level and MIC button status. This kind of tape can be removed and folded for storage with session documentation, guaranteeing accurate settings whenever you need to restore the mix.

MONO

NEAR FIELD

SPEAKER LEVEL

DIM

SPEAKE RS

MAIN

TALK B AC K

D8B Manual • Chapter 1 • page 9

7. In the ASSIGNMENT section, verify that when L–R is selected (green light on) the ASSIGN button in Channel One lights up green. This is basic bus assignment procedure. Anything you want to come out the MASTER L–R bus must light up on the assign button of each desired channel. In similar fashion, any channel that needs to be assigned to Bus 1 must have the channel assign button lit when Bus 1 is selected in the ASSIGNMENT section.

ASSIGNMENT

ASSIGN ASSIGN

BUS 1

ASSIGN ASSIGN

BUS 3 BUS 4

ASSIGN ASSIGN

BUS 5

ASSIGN ASSIGN

BUS 7

ASSIGN ASSIGN

L-R

BUS 2

BUS 6

BUS 8

ROUTE TO

TAPE

Signal Routing Concept

The Digital 8•Bus, with its multilayer technology, literally performs the work of at least four consoles. T o help organize the various connections, visualize each bank as a new console. The “V” or “Multi-V” diagrams that follow provide a simple and accurate mental image of the signal flow and/or processing while you put the Digital 8•Bus through its paces.

Figure 1-2 demonstrates a simple connection scheme utilizing a microphone that’s routed though the D8B to the monitor system.

Figure 1-3 demonstrates a tracking setup. Notice how the graphic representation of two separate fader banks supports the mental image of the D8B concept: sound source into the MIC/LINE bank, then routed to the multitrack, then back into the TAPE IN bank.

Figure 1-4 adds a mixdown recorder . The beauty of this concept lies in its flexibility. Start at the beginning, middle, or end of the signal path—it doesn’ t matter. When the routing concept is understood, the process is simple.

8. Be sure the SPEAKER button is lit that corresponds to your monitor system connection—that the yellow light shows on NEAR FIELD or MAIN.

9. T urn the SPEAKER LEVEL V-pot up to about 11:00.

10. Turn the MASTER L/R fader up to unity.

11. Slowly raise the level of the Channel One fader until you hear sound.

TRIM TRIM

REC/RDY REC/RDY

ASSIGN

WRITE

ASSIGN

WRITE

ASSIGNMENT

ASSIGN ASSIGN

ASSIGN

BUS 7

ASSIGN ASSIGN

L-R

BUS 2

BUS 8

ROUTE TO

TAPE

D8B Manual • Chapter 1 • page 10

Figure 1-2 Simple Microphone Connection/Basic Live Setup

This setup illustrates the most fundamental use of the D8B. A very basic live setting might require only this limited level of complexity.

RACK

AST

Channel 1–24

Mic/Line In

Channels 1–24 Tracking Mixer

Fader Bank 1

Monitor Outs

to Speakers

Figure 1-3 Setting Up to Track

The graphic below highlights the simplicity of the D8B tracking procedure. Once levels to tape are set, using the Channel Trim controls, it’s typically best to monitor the mix from the TAPE IN Fader Bank throughout tracking.

RACK

AST

Channel 1–24

Mic/Line In

Channels 1–24 Tracking Mixer

Fader Bank 1

Multitrack

Tape or Bus Outs to

Multitrack Inputs

From Tape to Channel

25–48 Inputs

Channels 25–48

Tape Returns

Fader Bank 2

Monitor Outs

to Speakers

Channel Assign-

ments Routed to

L/R Mix

D8B Manual • Chapter 1 • page 11

Figure 1-4 Basic Mixdown Setup

This is a basic mixdown setup. Live Mic/Line input source might be used for any audio source: live vocals, instruments, or effects returns.

Multitrack

RACK

AST

Outboard Effects,

MIDI Gear, Live Room Mics, etc.

Channels 1–24 Tracking Mixer

Fader Bank 1

Tape or Bus Outs

From Tape to Channel

25–48 Inputs

Channels 25–48

Monitor Tape

Fader Bank 2

Use this diagram for troubleshooting!

Signal Flow

The previous diagrams help create an accurate mental image of how the D8B functions. The signal flow diagram in Figure 1-5 (on the next page) looks more closely at the actual path the signal takes from a point of origin to a chosen destination. This is a simplified flow-diagram designed to provide a “bird’seye” view . Follow the signal from left to right. Notice the first thing the signal encounters, after the analog inputs (including the analog trim), is the analog-todigital converter . The audio remains in the digital domain from that point until it finally converts back to analog at the main outputs, bus outputs, and external aux sends. Simply follow the arrows to discover the path—you never know where you might end up. For a more detailed block diagram of the D8B signal path refer to Figure 1-6.

From Mix Playback to 2-Track Input (Analog

From Master Out to

or Digital)

Mixdown Recorder

Monitor Mixdown Machine

at CONTROL ROOM in the

Master Section

2 4

7 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 50

LEFT RIGHT

CHANNEL

2. Be sure you verify the Bank Selection whenever you need to make a change. At first it’s easy to forget to check the Fader Bank status. However, once you’ve adjusted to the layered consoles, maneuvering throughout the entire console will become second nature.

Monitor Outs

to Speakers

Phones

Keep Close Track of These Concepts

1. The Channel Select Display, next to the Master L/R meters, always displays the currently selected channel number no matter which Fader Bank is selected. If an adjustment is required in the Fat Channel, verify that the channel you intend to adjust is displayed here.

D8B Manual • Chapter 1 • page 12

49-72

EFFECTS

BANK SELECT

SHIFT

25-48

TAPE IN

MASTERS

1-24

MIC/LINE

(TRACK) (MONITOR)

Figure 1-5 Signal-Flow Diagram

AUX 7

AUX 8

AUX 5

AUX 6

AUX 1

AUX 3

AUX 2

AUX 4

LEVEL TO TAPE

DIGITAL TRIM

1-24 1-48

Simply begin at the far left star and follow the route the signal must take to reach the master output. DSP includes all dynamics, equalization, and phase controls.

Main Inserts

Tracking/Routing

Pre-DSP

Insert

Post-DSP

Insert

Channel

Meter

Level to

Tape

To Tape Outputs

R L

AES/EBU Out

S/PDIF Out

Analog

Inputs

CH 1-48

Optional

Digital Tape

I/O Card

Monitoring

AES/EBU

S/PDIF

2 TRK A

2 TRK B

2 TRK C

Analog to

Digital

Converter

Auxes 9/10 Auxes 11/12

DAC

From

L/R Out

DSP (EQ, Comp, Gate, etc.)

Control

Room

Select

Ch. 49 54

Pre

Channel

Aux Send

Returns

Fader

Level

Internal

Main L/R

Meter

Channel

Pan

Post

Master Aux

Send Level

Near Field

Speaker

Level

Main

Speaker

Level

Studio

Level

Cue Mix 1

Level

Cue Mix 2

Level

Sends 1 – 8

Bus

Assign

Bus 1-8

Master L/R

Fader

Bus Master

Digital to

Analog

Converter

Digital to

Analog

Converter

Digital to

Analog

Converter

Lake Sammamish

6 miles

Nearfield

Out

Main

Out

Studio

Out

Phones 1

Out

Phones 2

Out

Main

Out

Bus 1-8

Outputs

Aux

Sends

3. When using the V-Pot to adjust a parameter , make sure it’s assigned to make the change you need. Since the V -Pot is a multifunction control, it’s easy to assume it’s doing the job you want when it might be changing a completely different setting. Intentionally check the status of the V-Pot before making a change.

AUX 9-10

PAN

MASTER

AUX 11

PAN

SOLO

D8B Manual • Chapter 1 • page 13

MIC/LINE 1 (through 12)

MIC IN

MIC/LINE

48V

LINE IN

ANALOG STEREO

INSERT/RETURN

TRIM

A to D

PRE-DSP

INSERT (CHANNEL TAP AND PLUG-INS)

KEY INPUT

Default: Itself (the channel)

OR:

CHANNEL TAP

BUS TAP

AUX TAP

2-TRACK DIGITAL INPUT

POST-DSP

INSERT

(PLUG-INS

ONLY)

CHANNEL

TAP

METER

LINE 13 (through 24)

LINE IN

FROM TAPE 25 (through 32)

FROM TAPE 33 (through 40)

FROM TAPE 41 (through 48)

TRIM

Analog 8 channel TAPE CARD

(optional)

Analog 8 channel TAPE CARD

(optional)

Analog 8 channel TAPE CARD

(optional)

FX card A. inputs 49–52

Inputs 53–64

(optional — B, C, D cards)

ALT I/O CARD 65-72 (optional)

TDIF/ADAT 8 channel format

(optional)

A to D

DELAY DIG. TRIM

COMPEQGATE

PHASE HI PASS

FADER

DIRECT ASSIGN

TO TAPE OUT

PFL SOLO

MUTE

PAN

AES/EBU & S/PDIF STEREO INPUT

TO CONTROL ROOM

SELECT

Digital 8•Bus

Block Diagram

4 / 12 / 2001”

Figure 1-6 D8B Block Diagram

This diagram provides a detailed view of the D8B signal path.

“Mackie

PRE/

POST

AUX

LEVEL

AUX

LEVEL

AUX

LEVEL

AUX

LEVEL

AUX 1–8

AUX PAN

D8B Manual • Chapter 1 • page 14

AUX 11/12

AUX 9/10

TAPE 1–8

TAPE 9–16

TAPE 17–24

PFL SOLO

SOLO L

SOLO R

MAIN LEFT

MAIN RIGHT

BUSES 1–8

AUX SEND 1–8

AUX SEND 9

AUX SEND 10

AUX SEND 11

AUX SEND 12

AUX

TAP

LEVEL

D / A

FX CARDS

AUX 1 (of 8)

MASTER

AUX SOLO 1 (of 8)

D8B Manual • Chapter 1 • page 15

TO FX METER SELECT

LEVEL TO TAPE

BUS LEVEL

MUTE

D / A

TAPE 1–8 TAPE 9–16 TAPE 17–24 PFL SOLO

MIXDOWN

SOLO

SOLO L SOLO R MAIN LEFT MAIN RIGHT BUSES 1–8 AUX SEND 1–8 AUX SEND 9 AUX SEND 10 AUX SEND 11 AUX SEND 12

ONLY SOLOED CHANNELS

MIXDOWN SOLO SENDS

TO MAIN L/R BUS

MASTER

FADER

MAIN INSERT R (L)

D8B OUTPUT SECTION

X2 LEFT AND (RIGHT)

D / A

AUX 9/10 MASTER

( )

AUX SOLO 9 (10)

LEVEL

D / A

SOLO

AFL

PFL

PFL/AFL/MIXDOWN

D / A

( )

2 TRK IN

2 TRK A

MASTER L-R

DIG IN 2

CONTROL ROOM

SELECT

LEVEL

AES/EBU IN

DIG IN 1

FROM

D / A

S/PDIF IN

FROM

D / A

(R)

TALKBACK TO STUDIO

TB LEVEL

TALKBACK

D / A

AUX 11/12 MASTER

D / A

9/10

11/12

PH 2 LEVEL

CTRL RM

11/12

PH 2

AUX SOLO 11 (12)

D / A

PHONES SELECT

CTRL RM

9/10

PH 1

PH 1 LEVEL

TO SOLO BUS

LEVEL

2 TRK B

2 TRK C

NEARFIELD

DIMMETERS

BUS SOLO

BUS

TAP

D / A

ASSIGN

CONTROL

SOLO

MONO

(R)

LEFT

MAIN

DIM

LEVEL

AUX 1 – AUX 8

ALT I/0

TAPE 17–24

TAPE 9–16

TAPE 1–8

SPKR LEFT

BUS 1–8

MAIN

(R)

NEARFIELD

SPKR LEFT

(R)

STUDIO OUT LEF

(R)

AUX 11/12

PHNS 2 LEFT

PHNS 1 LEFT

AUX 9/10

MAIN OUT LEFT

(R)

MAIN OUT LEFT

(R)

DIGITAL OUT LEF

AES / EBU

(R)

S/PDIF

(R)

DIGITAL OUT LEF

mic in

1-12

+22 dBu max input

20 dB loss

40 dB gain

20 dB loss

20 dB gain

60 dB gain

line in

1-12

+2 dBu max input

+22 dBu max input

line in 13 - 24

Inputs 25-48, Returns 1-8, 2 Trk A-C

level up +10 dB

+22 dBu max input

level up +20 dB

gain up +15 dB

gain dn –15 dB

level up +10 dB

pan cntr –3 dB

fat DSP

digital trim compressor 4 band EQ channel fader pan

level up +10 dB

ch aux level mix

+22 dBu max out

Aux send

level up +10 dB

+22 dBu max out

Bus 1-8

Studio Out

Phones 1&2

st. aux pan cntr -3 dB

level up +10

TRS +22 dBu max out

Main L-R

XLR +28 dBu max out

+22 dBu max out

Control Room

Max Level @ Unity gain

Mackie Effects

gain up +12 dB

gain dn –12 dB

Mackie Designs

Digital 8•Bus

Gain Structure Diagram

5/15/01

Figure 1-7 D8B Gain Structure Diagram

D8B Manual • Chapter 1 • page 16

Specifications

Meters:

• LED ladders displaying 24 channels, 24 LEDs per channel from –50 to 0 dBFS (0 dBFS = +20 dBu)

Frequency Response:

• 20Hz-20kHz +/-0.5 dB

Crosstalk (@ 1kHz)

• Adjacent channels: –90 dBu

• Aux sends feed through: –90 dBu

• Main outputs: –90 dBu

Equalizer

• Gain Range: ±15 dB

• Frequency range: 20Hz-20kHz

split into 4 bands

• Q: 1/12 to 3 octave

Compressor

• Threshold: –60 to –1 dB

• Attack: 0.3 ms to 2.6 sec

• Release: 80 ms to 2.6 sec

• Ratio: 1:1 to 20:1

• Output: 0.0 dB to 20 dB

Gate

• Threshold: –60 to –1 dB

• Attack: 0.1 ms to 0.6 sec

• Release: 80 ms to 2.6 sec

• Range: 0 dB to 100 dB

Analog Input/Output Section

• Output Level (0 dBu = 0.775V RMS)

• Left and Right Outputs: +22 dBu balanced 1/4" TRS +28 dBu balanced XLR

• Bus (Tape) out: +22 dBu balanced 1/4" TRS

• Aux sends: +22 dBu balanced 1/4" TRS

• Inserts: +22 dBu unbalanced 1/4" TRS

Channel Section (mic/line)

• Line input: balanced 1/4" TRS input

• Mic Input: balanced XLR input

• Preamp dynamic range:

114 dB max.

• E.I.N.:

–129.5 dBu, 150 ohm source –131.2 dBV, 150 ohm source

• CMRR: –83 dBu @1kHz

• Distortion: 0.005% @ 1kHz

+14 dBu output level (20Hz-20kHz filter)

• Mic gain range: Unity to +60 dB

• Line In gain range: –20 dB to +40 dB

(channels 1-12) –20 dB to +20 dB (channels 13-24)

• Input max. level: +4 dBu nominal

+22 dBu clipping

• Aux send gain range: off to +10 dB

• Bus out gain range: off to +10 dB

• Threshold: –60 to –1 dB

• Ch. fader gain range: –100 to +10 dB

Digital Specs

• Converters: 24-bit, 115 dB Signal-to-Noise-Ratio (EIAJ), 106 dB Dynamic Range, 128X oversampling

• DSP: 32 bit (>190 dB dynamic range)

• CPU: 300 MHz Celeron (166 MHz Pentium in earlier versions)

File Storage:

• Floppy drive, internal hard drive or 10-base-T Ethernet network

Dither:

• Apogee UV22 16-bit Super CD Encoding onboard

Physical Dimensions

• Console:

8.7" x 37.6" x 27.1" (221mm x 955mm x 688mm)

• Remote CPU:

5.25" x 19.0” x 20.0" (133mm x 483mm x 508mm)

Weight

• Console: 73 lbs. (33.1kg)

• Remote CPU: 50 lbs. (22.7kg)

Note: All specifications subject to change without notice.

D8B Manual • Chapter 1 • page 17

Physical Dimensions

8.7" (221mm)

37.6" (955mm)

D8B CONSOLE SHIPPING

WEIGHT

73 lbs.

(33.1 kg)

D8B CPU

SHIPPING

WEIGHT

50 lbs.

(22.7 kg)

27.1" (688mm)

17.25" (43.8cm)

20" (50.8cm)

D8B Manual • Chapter 1 • page 18

CPU

19.00" (48.3cm)

5.25" (13.3cm)

Updating Software

Software upgrades can easily be downloaded from the Mackie website at www.mackie.com. Find the D8B section and select “Downloads.”

Always read the Release notes that accompany the software downloads. They contain valuable infor-

mation specific to the current software revisions and install procedures.

Windows-based Computers

Follow these steps if you are downloading onto a Windows

1. Download the .ZIP files d8b3xxxx_PC.zip for

the operating system installation, and the D8B

Plug-in Demo Kit (Demo_Plugins_3xxx_PC.zip)

for the plug-ins installation.

2. W e recommend that you update the operating

system first. Double-click on the d8b3xxxx_PC.zip

file. This will launch the WinZip™ self-

extraction utility.

3. The default "Unzip T o" directory is set to C:\. If

you prefer to have the files extracted to a

different location, type the path into the provided

text box and then press the Unzip button. Quit

the WinZip™ self-extraction utility.

4. Locate the two extracted files, labeled

d8b3xxxx Install 1.exe and d8b3xxxx Install

2.exe, on your hard drive.

5. Double-click on the first file, d8b3xxxx Install

1.exe, and you'll see a "WinImage™ Self

Extractor" dialog box.

6. Ensure that the "Writing On Floppy" check box

is selected, then click the "OK" button in the

upper right corner of the dialog box.

7. When the "Batch Assistant" dialog box appears,

insert a double-sided, high-density 1.44MB

floppy disk into drive A:\ and then click the

"OK" button.

8. When the Winimage™ utility has completed

writing to the first disk, be sure to label your

disks so you know which is #1 and which is #2.

Additionally, be sure not to leave either disk in

your floppy drive. Rebooting your PC with the

disk in the drive can create problems with your

PC. Repeat steps 5 through 7 for the second

disk image file.

9. With the D8B console power supply turned off,

insert installation disk #1 into the floppy disk

drive.

10. Power on the console power supply.

11. Follow the instructions on the D8B control

surface. (Note: The installer no longer uses the

VGA screen; typical boot is about 30 seconds.)

12. Place the 2nd floppy disk in the drive when

prompted by the installation software.

-based computer:

13. Remove the 2nd floppy disk when prompted and power down the console power supply, then power back on.

14. You now have the updated D8B operating system installed.

15. Make sure you read the release notes. They have important info about this upgrade.

Note: Repeat the above procedure with the Demo_Plugins_3xxx_PC.zip file to install the plug-in update. After updating the plug-ins software on the D8B, you must perform the “Erase UFX Memory” and “Upgrade UFX Cards” procedures (under Windows in the upper menu bar) to upgrade the UFX cards that are installed in the D8B (see page 86).

Macintosh Computers

Follow these steps if you are downloading

onto a Mac OS

1. Download the self-extracting file d8b3xxxx_Mac.sea for the operating system installation, and the D8B Plug-in Demo Kit (Demo_Plugins_3xxx_Mac.sea) for the plug-ins installation.

2. W e recommend that you update the operating system first. Double-click on the Demo_Plugins_3xxxx_Mac.sea file to extract the two disk images.

3. Launch Apple's DiskCopy utility (you may need to download the DiskCopy utility from http:// www .apple.com or check the system installations disks that came with your system).

4. Depending on your version of DiskCopy, either click the "Load Image File..." button or choose "Make a Floppy" from the Utilities menu.

5. Locate the image file labeled d8b3xxxx Install

1.img that was extracted onto your hard drive.

6. DiskCopy will prompt you (depending on your version of DiskCopy) to insert a floppy disk into the floppy disk drive. With older versions of Disk Copy, you may need to click the "Make a copy" button first.

7. Once the disk has been ejected from the computer , be sure to label your disk so you know which is #1 and which is #2. Then follow steps 4 through 6 to create the second installation disk from the second disk image file (d8b3xxxx Install 2.img).

8. With the D8B console power supply turned off, insert installation disk #1 into the floppy disk drive.

9. Power on the console power supply.

10. Follow the instructions on the D8B control surface. (Note: The installer no longer uses the VGA screen; typical boot is about 30 seconds.)

11. Place the 2nd floppy disk in the drive when prompted by the installation software.

computer:

D8B Manual • Chapter 1 • page 19

12. Remove the 2nd floppy disk when prompted and power down the console power supply, then power back on.

13. You now have the updated D8B operating system installed.

14. Make sure you read the release notes. They have important info about this upgrade.

Note: Repeat the above procedure with the Demo_Plugins_3xxx_Mac.sea file to install the plug-in update. After updating the plug-ins software on the D8B, you must perform the “Erase UFX Memory” and “Upgrade UFX Cards” procedures (under Windows in the upper menu bar) to upgrade the UFX cards that are installed in the D8B.

Note to Macintosh USB Floppy drive users:

Apple's Disk Copy program will not work

using the above method with a USB floppy drive because the menu option "Make a Floppy..." will not be available. You must use Aladdin Systems' ShrinkWrap program available for purchase and trial download from http://www.aladdinsys.com/ shrinkwrap/index.html. Once you have ShrinkWrap installed, substitute these steps for steps 3-6 in the above directions.

Summary

This chapter has been specifically designed to help you understand the basic concept of the Digital 8•Bus architecture. The following two chapters describe the physical surface controls and the software features and capabilities. The last chapter describes specific applications as they pertain to unique recording tasks and needs.

Chapters 2 and 3 support what you’ll encounter in Chapter 4. Feel free to jump ahead, but keep in mind that you’ll probably need to use these second two chapters as a reference for the terms and controls that are new to you.

3. Launch ShrinkWrap.

4. Select "Write Image back to Disk..." from the Image menu (command-B).

5. Locate the image file labeled d8b3xxxx Install

1.img that was extracted onto your hard drive.

6. ShrinkWrap will prompt you to insert a floppy disk into the floppy disk drive.

D8B Manual • Chapter 1 • page 20

Where Is It?

Chapter 2

D8B Manual • Chapter 2 • page 21

It’s Time to Locate Everything…

No matter how fast you want—or need—to get started, take advantage of this simple map of the territory: it provides the Fast Track overview of the D8B. It’s amazing how artistically supportive this console is. It’s well worth your time to take a look at all the controls so you can put them to work efficiently.

Rear Panel Description

This section describes rear panel connector types, their functions, and associated signal buses.

Card Cage Section

A B C D

DIGITAL I/O

AES/EBU

DIGITAL I/O

S/PDIF

DIGITAL EFFECTS CARDS

OUT

DIGITAL I/O SYNC ALT I/O TAPE IN/OUTS

ADAT OPTICAL

ANALOG IN ANALOG OUT

TDIF

IN OUT

SYNC

OPT•8

PDI•8

ANALOG I/O

AES/EBU I/O

APOGEE

CLOCK I/O

OUT

WORD

CLOCK

OUT

WORD

CLOCK

Channels 1–12 Inputs

+48V

MIC

LINE IN

INSERT

+48V

MIC

LINE IN

INSERT

+48V

MIC

MIC2MIC

LINE IN

INSERT

+48V

MIC

LINE IN

INSERT

Each channel contains:

• XLR mic input. Be sure the MIC button is pressed down on the control surface channel strip.

• Phantom power On/Off button depending on mic requirements.

• 1/4" TRS line input—balanced or unbalanced. Be sure the MIC switch is in the up position on the control surface channel strip.

• 1/4" TRS channel insert/direct output jack.

Channels 13–24 Inputs

LINE INPUTS

(BAL /UNBAL)

Channels 13 through 24 have 1/4" TRS (Tip/Ring/ Sleeve) line input connectors that accept balanced and unbalanced signals.

D8B Manual • Chapter 2 • page 22

This is where you plug in the optional I/O cards of your choosing, to customize the Digital 8•Bus for your own application.

There are three slots assigned as TAPE IN/OUTS. Each slot provides I/O for 8 channels, so you can add up to 24 tape sends and returns, or additional inputs and outputs.

• TO TAPE (OUTPUT) – The D8B can route any

channel in Fader Banks 1, 2 and 3 to the multitrack through these connectors. In addition, the bus outputs in Fader Bank 4 (MASTERS) can be routed out the tape outputs.

• FROM TAPE (INPUT) – Multitrack outputs are

fed back into channels 25–48 (Fader Bank 2) through these connectors. Depending on the specific I/O card, these inputs will receive any line-level analog or digital signal.

Each I/O card contains its own labeling protocol, but the fundamental concepts described above pertain to all.

1 Analog I/O (AIO•8)

• Each 25-pin D-sub connector handles 8 balanced analog channels.

• Top connectors send line-level outputs to the multitrack (or other line-level equipment).

• Bottom connectors receive line-level analog signal from the multitrack outputs (or other line-level equipment).

• Each card offers I/O for 8 channels.

• Connectors are compatible with TASCAM DA-88, 25-pin analog connectors.

2 Apogee Digital I/O (DIO•8)

• Two digital-format ins and outs: ADAT optical (fiber optic connections) and TASCAM TDIF (25-pin D-sub connections).

• Select one digital format at a time in the Setup screen.

• One BNC sync connector for master clock connection from the D8B to TASCAM clock recipient.

• Use the DIO•8 card as a format converter between either optical and/or TDIF.

3 ADAT Optical (OPT•8)

• Two digital ADAT optical (fiber optic) connections.

• Each card offers I/O for 8 channels.

4 AES/EBU (PDI•8)

• One 25-pin D-sub connector in digital AES/EBU format.

• Each card offers I/O for 8 channels.

5 ALT I/O Card Slot

• Using the configurable plug-in architecture, insert plug-in capability is available for channels 1–48 (Pre- and Post-DSP), and Main Mix L-R, in addition to internal effects sends (Auxes 1–12).

• Effects return to the main L-R mix at Fader Bank 3 (FX 1–16)

Reminder: Power down the system before installing any cards!

• Separate input/output card slot offering 8 more ins and outs.

• Holds any card: AIO•8, DIO•8, OPT•8, or PDI•8.

• Inputs show up at RETURNS faders (channels 65–72).

• Outputs are assignable to either the 8 bus outputs (BUS 1–8), the 12 Aux Sends (AUX 1–12), or the MASTER L-R outputs.

• Assignments are made in the Digital I/O menu.

6 The Clock I/O Card

• Provides word clock in and out to connect with other digital equipment.

• For use as a master or slave clock source.

• Supports 48kHz and 44.1kHz internal sample rates, with vari-speed capabilities.

• Supports external sample rates between 32kHz and 50kHz.

Note: The Apogee Clock I/O card replaces the standard clock card that is shipped in the SYNC slot with the D8B.

7 The Digital I/O Card (2-track)

• AES/EBU digital I/O. Stereo interconnect for master record machine. Input is connected to DIGITAL 1 in the CONTROL ROOM monitor section.

• S/PDIF digital I/O. Input is connected to DIGITAL 2 in the CONTROL ROOM monitor section.

• Same source output as MASTER L-R.

8 Digital Effects Card Slots

• Room for four separate effects cards.

• MFX – Mackie Effects card with two stereo processors.

• UFX – Universal DSP engine with functions dependent on specific plug-in effects. Each card is capable of four discrete mono, two stereo, or one stereo and two mono effects.

• Aux sends 1–12 internally route to the four card locations.

Master Input/Output Section

BUS OUT 1-8

SURROUND OUT

MASTER OUT

MAIN

NEAR FIELD

2 TRACK IN B

2 TRACK IN C

PHONES 12 TRACK IN A

STUDIO OUT

PUNCH I/O

bp bq

MASTER OUT

9 MASTER OUTputs (1/4" TRS and XLR)

• Fed from the Master L/R fader on the console surface.

• Both sets deliver balanced line-level signals. However, the TRS Master Outputs also provide unbalanced line-level signals.

• Post fader, DSP, and D/A converter.

bl BUS OUT 1–8 (SURROUND OUT)

• 25-pin D-sub connector provides eight balanced line-level outputs.

• Any channel (1–48), internal effects return, or ALT IN can be assigned to one or more bus outputs.

• Output level is controlled by the BUS 1–8 MASTERS (Fader Bank 4).

• Carries Surround monitoring channel outputs.

D8B Manual • Chapter 2 • page 23

PHONES 2

TALKBACK

bm CR MAIN and CR NEAR FIELD

AUX

AUX OUT

(BAL /UNBAL)

br 2 TRACK A, B, and C

• Pairs of 1/4" TRS stereo line-level outputs for sending signals to control room speakers.

• Both outputs carry the same signal (as selected in the Control Room section).

• Levels can be adjusted independently or linked together.

• Balanced 1/4" TRS inputs for receiving linelevel analog signals from a 2-track recorder.

• The separate left/right pairs feed the 2 TRACK A, B, and C buses in the control room monitoring section.

• Can accept balanced and unbalanced signals.

• Post-DSP, Master L/R fader, and D/A converter.

• The signal fed to these outputs is selected in the CONTROL ROOM section of the control surface.

bn PHONES 1 and 2

• Each jack carries an unbalanced stereo signal through a 1/4" TRS jack.

• Designed to connect to virtually any stereo headphones. Phones 1 and 2 V-Pots adjust to compensate for headphones with exceptionally high or low impedances.

AUX OUT Section

• There are 12 Aux sends available.

• Auxes 1–8 provide mono 1/4" TRS analog line-level outputs.

• Auxes 9 and 10 are linked together as a stereo pair of 1/4" TRS analog line-level outputs.

• Auxes 11 and 12 are linked together as a stereo pair of 1/4" TRS analog linelevel outputs.

• The signal at these outputs is determined by the PHONES/CUE MIX 1 and PHONES/CUE MIX 2 source selection on the control surface.

• Aux 9–10, Aux 11–12, or the CONTROL ROOM selection can feed either or both Phones/Cue outputs.

• The Master L/R mix can be copied to either or both Aux 9–10 or 11–12 Cue Mixes.

bo STUDIO OUT L-R

• Signal at these outputs is determined by the CONTROL ROOM source selection.

• Balanced analog stereo-paired outputs for sending signals to the studio.

• 1/4" TRS outputs can drive a balanced or unbalanced input.

• Level controlled by the V-Pot in the SOLO/STUDIO section of the control surface, when STUDIO LEVEL is selected.

bp PUNCH I/O

Note: Auxes 1–12 simultaneously feed the analog Aux sends and the internal effects cards.

Each MFX card handles two separate mono inputs, so auxes are paired. MFX effects returns are stereo, so each card, while receiving two discrete mono inputs, returns two sets of stereo outputs to the EFFECTS Bank. Internally, Aux 1 returns to FX 1/2; Aux 2 returns to FX 3/4; Aux 3 returns to FX 5/6; continuing through Aux 8, which returns at FX 15/16.

UFX cards handle 4 mono, two stereo, or one stereo and two mono inputs.

For each UFX card, no matter what the Aux input selection, returns appear at the FX faders numbered the same as their respective slots.

If all UFX effects are mono, each return correlates directly to the Slot number ( 9 to 9, 10 to 10, etc.)

• A remote switch connection for activating the MMC master record function—to punch in or out of record.

• Use with a normally-open switch.

bq TALKBACK

• A remote switch connection for engaging the talkback function.

• When stereo effects are selected, regardless of the Aux input selection, returns appear at the FX faders numbered the same as their respective slots. For stereo effects with mono inputs, the effects return at the respective slot numbered pair (input 9 returns at FX 9/ 10; input 11 returns at FX 11/12, etc.)

• Duplicates the Talkback switch in the CONTROL ROOM section.

• Use with a normally-open switch.

Note: Patching from an Aux output does not interrupt the internal sends to the FX Cards, so it’s possible to run both internal and outboard effects at the same time.

D8B Manual • Chapter 2 • page 24

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