Mackie HUI User Manual

Download

Page 1

HUI

Human User Interface for Digital Audio Workstations

Reference Guide

TALKBACK

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

UTILISE UN FUSIBLE DE RECHANGE DE MÊME TYPE. DEBRANCHER AVANT DE REMPLACER LE FUSIBLE

FOOTSWITCH

1 2

RELAY

1 2

OUT

SERIAL NUMBER

MONITOR INPUTS

L/MONO

WARNING:

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

REPLACE WITH THE SAME TYPE FUSE AND RATING. DISCONNECT SUPPLY CORD BEFORE CHANGING FUSE

CONCEIVED, DESIGNED, AND MANUFACTURED BY MACKIE DESIGNS INC • WOODINVILLE • WA • 98072 • USA • MADE IN USA • FABRIQUE AU USA • PATENTS PENDING

MIDI IN

KEYBOARD

MIDI OUT

IN THRU

MOUSE

THRU

120V, 60Hz, .85A

FUSE 1.25A, 250V SLOW

POWER

OFF

MACKIE DESIGNS THIS DEVICE COMPLIES WITH PART 15 OF THE FCC RULES. OPERATION IS SUBJECT TO THE FOLLOWING TWO CONDITIONS: 1) THIS DE VICE MAY NOT CAUSE HARMFUL INTERFERENCE AND 2) THIS DEVICE MUST ACCEPT ANY INTERFERENCE R ECEIVED THAT MAY CAUSE UNDESIRED OPERATION

SERIAL PORT

EXPANSION

RS232 RS422

MANUFACTURING DATE

MONITOR OUTPUTS

PHONES

TRIM

0 60 dB 60 dB 60 dB0

+48V

PHANTOM

INPUT

INTERNAL

MIC

EXTERNAL

REMOTE TALKBK TRIGGER

MIC 2

TRIM

+48V

PHANTOM

MIC

INPUT

INSERT

OUT

OUT BAL /

UNBAL

MIC 1

TRIM

+48V

PHANTOM

MIC

INPUT

INSERT

OUT

OUT BAL /

UNBAL

SEND A

SEND B

SEND C

SEND D

SELECT-ASSIGN

SEND E

PAN

ASSIGN

INPUT

OUTPUT

BANK

CHANNEL

WINDOW

TRANSPORT

EDIT

MIX

KEYBOARD SHORTCUTS

UNDO SAVE

EDIT MODE EDIT TOOL

SHIFT/ADD

CTRL/CLUTCH

REC/RDY ALL

BYPASS

SUSPEND

DEFAULT

ASSIGN

STATUS

MEM-LOC

OPTION/ALL

ALT/FINE

REC/RDY

INSERT

V-SEL

MUTE

PAN/SEND

SHIFT

AUTO

SOLO

MUTE

SELECT

ALT

REC/RDY

INSERT

V-SEL V-SEL V-SEL V-SEL V-SEL V-SEL V-SEL

AUTO AUTO AUTO

MUTE MUTE MUTE MUTE

SELECT

SELECT SELECT SELECT

REC/RDY

INSERT

SOLOSOLOSOLOSOLO

REC/RDY

INSERT

AUTO AUTOAUTO

MUTE MUTE

SELECT

REC/RDY

INSERT

PAN/SEND

PAN/SENDPAN/SENDPAN/SENDPAN/SENDPAN/SENDPAN/SEND

AUTO

SOLO

SOLOSOLO

MUTE

SELECT

SELECT SELECT

ASSIGN

COMPARE

BYPASS

FADER

PAN

PLUG IN SEND MUTE

TIME CODE

FEET

BEATS

INPUT 1

INPUT 2

INPUT 3

F3 F4 F5

AUTO ENABLE AUTO MODE

READ TOUCH

MUTE

LATCH

SEND

TRIM

CONTROL ROOM

1:1 DISCRETE MONO

MAX

MASTER VOLUME

MUTE

DIM

LEVEL

MIC

TALKBACK

MODE

SELECT

DSP EDIT/ASSIGN

WRITE

OFF

LEVEL 1

LEVEL 2

LEVEL 3

AUDITION

RTZ

FAST FWD STOP PLAY

REWIND

SELECT

AUTO

MONITOR

PHASE SUSPEND

RUDE SOLO LIGHT

OUTPUT 1

OUTPUT 2

OUTPUT 3/

PHONES

PRE

ENDINON LINE

GROUP

CREATE

LOCATE/NUMERIC S

CLR

7 8 9

4 5 6

1 2 3

OUT

LOOP

INSERT PARAM

SCROLL

F8/ESC

EDITSTATUS/GROUP

CAPTURE

SEPARATE

COPY

CUT

DELETE

PASTE

E N T E R

POST

QUICKPUNCH

RECORD

SCRUB

SHUTTLE

Page 2

H U I R E F E R E N C E G U I D E

SAFETY INFORMATION

1. Read Instructions — Read all the safety and operation instructions before operating HUI.

2. Retain Instructions — Keep the safety and operating instructions for future reference.

3. Heed Warnings — Follow all warnings on HUI and in these operating instructions.

4. Follow Instructions — Follow all operating and other instructions.

5. Water and Moisture — Do not use HUI near water — for example, near a bathtub, washbowl, kitchen sink, laundry tub, in a wet basement, in the rain, near a swimming pool, or next to a sweat-gushing, 300-lb. drummer, etc.

6. Heat — Locate HUI away from heat sources such as radiators, compost pits, or other devices that produce heat.

7. Power Sources — Connect HUI only to a power supply of the type described in these operation instructions or as marked on HUI.

8. Power Cord Protection — Route power supply cords 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 HUI.

9. Object and Liquid Entry — Do not drop objects or spill liquids into HUI.

10. Damage Requiring Service — HUI should be serviced only by qualified service personnel when:

A. HUI power-supply cord or the plug has been damaged; or B. Objects have fallen onto, or liquid has spilled into HUI; or C. HUI has been exposed to rain; or D. HUI does not appear to operate or exhibits a marked

change in performance; or E. HUI has been dropped, or its chassis damaged.

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

11. Servicing — Do not attempt to service HUI beyond those means described in this operating manual. All other servicing should be referred to the Mackie Tech Support Department.

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

Pour préevenir 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.

13. Grounding or Polarization — Do not defeat the grounding or polarization of HUI.

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.

This product has been tested and complies with the following standards and directives as set forth by the European Union:

• EN 55022 Radiated and Conducted Emissions

• EN 61000-4-2 Electrostatic Discharge Immunity

• EN 61000-4-3 RF Electromagnetic Fields Immunity

• EN 61000-4-4 Electrical Fast Transient/Burst Immunity

• EN 60950/IEC 950 Electrical Safety Requirements

WARNING — To reduce the risk of fire or electric

shock, do not expose this appliance to rain or moisture.

Page 3

INTRODUCTION

Welcome!

Of course we know what you want to do now. You want to bypass this reference guide completely and get right into the business of firing up your new HUI™. And who wouldn’t? So, congratulations. You bought yourself a HUI!

Mackie Designs’ HUI — Human User Interface — will make life with your digital audio workstation (DAW) the sweet dream it was always meant to be. You’ve always imagined being able to use your digital audio workstation the way you use those old analog mixing consoles, but with the modern enhancements of digital technology. Now you can.

But before we break on through to the other side of this page we’d like you to do a few things:

1. Write down the serial number of your HUI in the box prepared especially for you on this page. Keep in mind one of the corollaries to Murphy’s Law: The very act of writing down the serial number means you’ll never need to use it. See? We’re doing you a favor.

2. Check out the “Read Me” file with your DAW software disks, or any additional inserts that come with HUI. They’ll contain the latest information about using your HUI, including software updates, tips and tricks to help you use it more efficiently, and any other last-minute changes or addenda to this reference guide.

3. Save the box and all the foam innards. Though we expect you’ll never have to send in your HUI for service (see #1 above), should the occasion arise you don’t want to be caught with your pants down. Likewise, we don’t want to have to sell you new pants (that is, a new box and innards) to get you through the ordeal.

4. If you can’t force yourself to read this blessedly short reference guide before digging in, at least read through the Quick Start section on pages 8 and 9. This shows you how to connect HUI into your system, so you’re ready to boldly go where your DAW has only hinted.

Now there’s just one more thing before we

begin…

What This Manual Will Do For You — And What It Won’t

This reference guide is designed to help you understand the specific features and controls of Mackie’s HUI. Since HUI is designed to control a wide variety of DAWs, including Digidesign Pro Tools®, you will want to consult the proper manual from your particular DAW manufacturer to understand what each command and control can do. For example, Pro Tools users should look

in Digidesign’s MIDI Controller’s Guide, or their Pro Tools owner’s manual for specific information on how HUI works with Pro Tools.

See the diagram on the next page — it describes which manual to use and when.

Please write your serial number here for future reference (i.e., insurance claims, tech support, return authorization, etc.):

Purchased at:

H U I R E F E R E N C E G U I D E

Part No. 820-069-03 Rev. B 3/98

Date of purchase:

INTRODUCTION

Page 4

H U I R E F E R E N C E G U I D E

Here’s a flowchart that shows when to use your DAW manufacturer’s software manual, when to use their “combination” manual

(Digidesign calls theirs the MIDI Controller’s Guide), and when to use this HUI Reference Guide.

Questions

about using DAW

software, DAW commands,

software troubleshooting

DAW

software

manual

From DAW Company

about using DAW

with HUI, HUI-specific

software manual +

DAW's HUI “combo”

QUICK START ALERT!

Can’t wait to get started? If you’re one of those people who just can’t wait to plug in and turn on that new electronic thingie, at least turn to page 8 and read the Quick Start Section first! We trust you’ll get to the rest of the manual in due time.

Questions

commands

DAW

manual

Questions

about HUI-specific usage and features, HUI troubleshooting

Mackie

HUI Reference

Guide

INTRODUCTION

Page 5

CONTENTS

H U I R E F E R E N C E G U I D E

SAFETY INFORMATION .................................................. 2

INTRODUCTION ............................................................... 3

Welcome! ................................................................... 3

What This Manual Will Do For You ..................... 3

Manual Flowchart .................................................... 4

CONTENTS ......................................................................... 5

INTENDED USE — WHY HUI? ......................................... 6

HUI Does What Your DAW Does .......................... 7

HUI SELF-DEMO ................................................................. 7

An Installation Note ................................................ 7

QUICK START .....................................................................8

Quick Start Audio Test ........................................... 8

Quick Start DAW Controller Test ........................ 9

HUI FEATURES AND CONTROLS ................................. 10

Front Panel (Control Surface) ............................. 10

Channel Strip ................................................. 10

Left Control Strip .......................................... 10

DSP Edit/Assign Section .............................. 11

Switch Matrix Section.................................. 12

Control Room Section ................................. 12

Talkback Section ............................................ 13

Transport Section ......................................... 14

Rear Panel ................................................................. 15

Controller Input/Output Section ............. 15

Analog Audio Input/Output Section ........15

Talkback and Mic Preamp Section ............ 16

AUDIO INPUT AND OUTPUT ....................................... 17

Signal Flow Primer ................................................. 17

Stereo Monitor Mode ........................................... 17

1:1 Discrete Monitor Mode ................................... 17

Stereo & Discrete Mode Diagram.............. 17

Analog Audio Connections .................................. 18

Microphones .................................................. 18

Adjusting the Mic Trim Control ................. 18

Talkback Mic .................................................. 18

Monitor Outputs ........................................... 18

DIGITAL CONNECTIONS ............................................... 19

MIDI ........................................................................... 19

RS-232/RS-422 Serial Port ................................... 19

Keyboard (computer) ............................................ 19

Mouse ....................................................................... 19

Expansion Port ........................................................ 19

Typical System Hookup ....................................... 20

APPLICATION HOOKUPS .............................................. 21

Some Application Basics ...................................... 21

TV/Radio Production Hookup and Diagram ... 21

Tracking/Mixing Hookup and Diagram ............ 22

Surround-Sound Hookup and Diagram ............. 23

Full-On Major League Hookup and Diagram ... 24

TROUBLESHOOTING ..................................................... 25

Troubleshooting Flowchart ................................. 25

Perform a HUI Hardware Self-Test .................... 25

Audio ......................................................................... 25

Fader Touch-Circuits ............................................. 26

Digital/MIDI ........................................................... 26

SERVICE ............................................................................. 27

SPECIFICATIONS .............................................................28

HUI MIDI Implementation Chart ........................28

RS-232 Connection Diagram ................................ 28

HUI Audio Section Gain Structure Diagram .... 29

HUI Block Diagram - Audio Section ................... 30

Footswitch In Block Diagram................................31

Relay Out Block Diagram ...................................... 31

Remote Talkback Trigger Block Diagram .......... 31

Function Key Table ................................................. 31

Serial Port Pin-Out Chart ...................................... 31

Expansion Port Pin-Out Chart .............................. 31

HUI Audio Specifications ..................................... 32

GLOSSARY ........................................................................ 33

COLOPHON ......................................................................34

HUI LIMITED WARRANTY ............................................. 35

The following are trademarks or registered trademarks of Mackie Designs Inc.: “MACKIE.”, the “Running Man” figure, HUI.

This manual also contains trademarks or registered trademarks of other companies, that belong to those respective companies, and are hereby acknowledged.

HUI design patents pending.

CONTENTS

Page 6

H U I R E F E R E N C E G U I D E

INTENDED USE — WHY HUI?

Take a look at HUI. Lots of buttons, a few funny-looking knobs, some faders, and a big ol’ jog wheel. If you didn’t know any better you’d think you’d run across some sort of supersonic audio mixer. You have — sort of. But HUI is more than that.

First of all, HUI was designed to work with digital audio workstations (or DAWs). For purposes of illustration we’re using the Digidesign Pro Tools® 4.1 audio hardware/software package (eventually other DAWs will be compatible with HUI). As you may well be aware, Pro Tools allows you to record, edit, mix, and play back audio in the digital realm. You can make seamless electronic edits, EQ changes — basically anything you’d do in a recording studio — without affecting the original source material. With your DAW you can try out infinite possibilities, save practically infinite versions, and then spend the rest of your known existence trying to decide

take multiple mouse-clicks and key combinations can now be accomplished with the push of a button or two. You can use HUI’s hands-on controls to do everything from recording a single track to grouping multiple tracks, assigning inserts and aux sends/returns, automating mixes, and mixing programs for surround-sound.

Touch-updatable moving faders, V-Pots, elec-

tronic “scribble strips,” a 40 by two-character

display, built-in meter bridge, and an ergonomically laid-out control surface make HUI the logical choice for returning analog-style control to your digital world.

The built-in control room section provides a convenient way to monitor your mixes without having to use a separate mixer. It has three stereo inputs and three stereo outputs, plus a headphone output. The monitor inputs can be mixed together, or they can remain discrete, direct assigned to their corresponding monitor outputs.

which one was the best. If you make your living recording and mixing audio for CD, major motion picture soundtracks, TV/radio audio soundtracks, or multimedia, a DAW is manna from heaven.

But — and this is a big but — using a mouse and computer keyboard to do things you used to do on an analog mixer can be very strange. Clicking on a visual representation of a fader and trying to drag the mouse smoothly in order to achieve an amazing fade-out is difficult, if not impossible, for many of us. Likewise, turning a “virtual knob” on a computer screen just doesn’t cut it for some folks. And that’s why Mackie Designs teamed up with Digidesign to create HUI.

HUI gives you hands-on control of all of your DAW’s parameters. Now you can create a fade with a real fader. Move a HUI fader and your DAW “makes note” of your action and mirrors it on the computer screen. Similarly, when you make a fader move on your screen, HUI’s fader moves, too. Adjust EQ by turning one of HUI’s V-Pot rest. In fact, mouse-clicking is practically a thing of the past — with HUI, what used to

INTENDED USE — WHY HUI?

™

knobs and the DAW takes care of the

For additional tracking capability, we added two of our handy studio grade microphone preamps for direct analog connection to your digital audio interface’s A/D converters. These mic pre’s are the same design as those on our large format recording consoles, and offer plenty of gain, insert patching, and phantom power for condenser mics. You can use them for recording any sound source with low noise, low distortion, and wide frequency response. To top it off, we added a third mic preamp for a remote producer talkback mic or slating capabilities.

You can do so much with HUI. It’s a mix control surface that sets new levels of interactivity within today’s and tomorrow’s DAW environments — it will grow with your system, DAW software upgrades, etc. HUI can greatly improve your creativity while diminishing your workload and the repetitive grind of multiple sessions.

Page 7

HUI Does What Your DAW Does

H U I R E F E R E N C E G U I D E

An Installation Note

Though HUI can do many things, there are some things it cannot do. If your DAW software can’t do a particular magic audio trick you’ve always wished for, neither can HUI*. Because HUI works along with your DAW — thanks to the software and MIDI instructions that go back and forth between HUI and your computer — it is at your software’s mercy. This is a good thing, though. If your DAW software is updated with new features or what have you, HUI can keep up with the technology. So, though your software may change, HUI will stay the same. It’ll let you control your DAW with the handson ease and intuition you expect. It lets you be as creative as you want to be.

One caveat: Some DAW software packages accept third party plug-ins. It’s up to the plug-in designer to insure that their plug-in works correctly with external controllers like HUI.

HUI SELF-DEMO

Perform the Self-Demo (Optional)

Before you go all the way and connect HUI in your studio, you can perform this self-demo to make sure it lights up and works properly, and to get an idea of what HUI can do.

We’re new-technology fiends just like you are — we know you want to impress people with your wise purchase. So set up your HUI on a tabletop or other such eye-level resting place and call in the kids, the other studio engineers, or anyone within shouting distance. We’re going to plug it in, turn it on, and MAKE IT LIGHT UP!

Just follow these simple directions, okay?

1. With HUI out of the box and propped up for all to admire, grab the power cord and plug it in. (Don’t turn it on yet.) We recommend using a UPS or circuit-protected outlet strip like the kind you use with your computer or other audio hardware.

2. Turn on HUI by pressing the rocker

POWER

power, simultaneously press the buttons (located in the “Keyboard Shortcuts” section at the lower left area of HUI’s front panel). The self-demo begins, and will continue as long as HUI is powered up.

by simply turning off HUI’s

switch on the rear panel.

3. Within three seconds after turning on the

CTRL

and

ALT

Note: You can quit the self-demo at any time

POWER

switch.

HUI has conductive knobs on the faders that can “sense” when you touch them and toggle the “Write” mode for those channels automatically. Furthermore, as soon as you let go of the knob, the channel goes back into playback mode, playing back whatever automation had been previously recorded.

The touch circuits operate by sensing the stray capacitance your body provides between the fader knobs and ground. There are a number of variables that can affect the operation of this circuit, including temperature, humidity, and the number of fader knobs touched.

Reliable operation of the touch circuits depends on providing a good earth ground for the HUI. Be sure the power cord is plugged into a 3-prong outlet with the third pin (safety pin) connected to earth ground. If you’re not sure whether the third pin is grounded, use an AC outlet circuit tester to verify that the outlet is properly configured (available from Radio Shack and many fine hardware stores).

DO NOT BYPASS THE SAFETY PIN ON THE PLUG.

* That’s why we didn’t name it “Harry HUIdini.”

HUI SELF-DEMO

Page 8

H U I R E F E R E N C E G U I D E

QUICK START

Okay, okay… let’s run some audio through HUI’s monitor section. If you already performed the self-demo, then you know the faders work. The next logical stage is to make sure that HUI works with audio connected, and with your DAW.

Quick Start Audio Test

The diagram below shows the simple audio connections you’ll need to make for the audio quick start.

1. With HUI’s power turned off, plug in one of

the following:

• A pair of powered studio monitors to

TOR OUTPUTS 1

• A pair of speakers (via a power amp) to

MONITOR OUTPUTS 1

or…

• At the very least, a pair of headphones. You’ll

plug these into — wonder of all wonders — the

HEADPHONES

Now you can hear what’s happening.

2. Connect the output of a stereo audio

source (e.g., tape deck or CD player) to the

MONITOR INPUTS 1

3. Make sure the front panel

UME

and

4. Power up HUI by pressing the

switch on the rear panel.

5. On HUI’s front panel, make sure the

OUTPUT 1

They’re in the LEDs will light up. (Be sure the switch is off.)

on HUI’s rear panel; or…

on HUI’s rear panel;

jack on HUI’s rear panel.

LEVEL

knobs are off or turned down.

and

OUTPUT 3

buttons are pressed.

CONTROL ROOM

MONI-

L/R

MASTER VOL-

POWER

INPUT 1

section; their

1:1 DISCRETE

Tape Deck or CD Player

6. Turn up the

LEVEL 1

knob, and the

MASTER VOLUME

LEVEL 3

knob enough

knob, the

to hear sound coming from the speakers and headphones.

7. Set the

rear panel to the

TALKBACK LEVEL

press and hold the slowly turn the

TALKBACK MIC

INTERNAL

position. With the

knob all the way down,

TALKBACK

TALKBACK LEVEL

switch on the

button, and

knob up until you can hear yourself talk in the headphones.

Note:

TALKBACK

PUT 3/PHONES

assign

TALKBACK

is only assigned to

from the factory. You can

to any of the

OUTPUTS

(see instructions under “Talkback Section” on page 13).

8. Repatch the audio source into various inputs and turn on the various front panel input and output switches accordingly. As a precaution, turn down the

MASTER VOLUME

control while repatching cables. You’re now checking all of the various input and output combinations.

More information on HUI inputs and outputs can be found in the “Audio Input and Output” section, which begins on page 17.

If you suspect a problem with the HUI, turn to the “Troubleshooting” section beginning on page 25 and run the self-test.

CONTROL ROOM

INPUT 1

INPUT 2

INPUT 3

1:1 DISCRETE MONO

MAX

MASTER VOLUME

MUTE

DIM

LEVEL 1

LEVEL 2

LEVEL 3

OUT-

OUTPUT 1

OUTPUT 2

OUTPUT 3/

PHONES

QUICK START

L/Mono

Headphones

R L/Mono R L/Mono

MONITOR INPUTS

MONITOR OUTPUTS

3 2 1

Powered Monitors

such as Mackie HR824s

(or connect to a power amp

connected to a set of speakers)

Talkback

Mic

Internal

External

Trigger

Mic 2 Mic 1

Insert Insert

Out

Page 9

Quick Start DAW Controller Test

In order to make sure HUI is working in conjunction with your DAW, we’ll perform the next test. However, a few things need to be set properly in your system software on your computer:

• Hook up your computer to HUI as shown in

the diagram below.

• Make sure you have OMS (Open Music Sys-

tem) installed (or whatever MIDI software is compatible with your DAW), active, and properly configured on your computer.

• Make sure HUI is defined as a device in your

OMS setup (be sure the proper port, channels, etc., are selected).

Note: Consult your software manual (or OMS literature) for the specifics on the abovementioned OMS-related steps.

• Make sure the interface hardware is turned

on, and the MIDI cables are properly routed in and out according to the port configurations defined in the MIDI system software (i.e., OMS).

• Pro Tools Users: Make sure the HUI “per-

sonality file” is placed in the DAE controller folder in your System folder, and check the Pro Tools MIDI Controller’s Guide for information on OMS setup.

• Make sure HUI is defined as a MIDI control-

ler peripheral in your DAW software.

1. Run a pair of audio cables from your DAW

audio interface’s outputs to HUI’s

INPUTS 1

(L & R). The plugs on these cables

MONITOR

will depend on what type of jacks (1/4″, RCA, XLR) you have on your DAW audio interface or sound card; the HUI ends of these cables should be 1/4″ TRS plugs (TS are okay).

2. You’ll need a previously-recorded session to demo. Chances are you’ve either already recorded some sessions with your DAW and can use one of those. If you have no session to call your own, the software CD-ROM should have a sample session for you to use.

With all the above connections made and

your DAW turned on:

3. Switch on HUI with the

POWER

switch on the rear panel. Turn on the power amps or powered monitors last.

4. Start your DAW application.

5. As soon as HUI is defined as a peripheral, MIDI active sensing is enabled and HUI begins displaying time code. This is a good thing.

6. Press HUI’s

PLAY

button. (You could also click on PLAY on your computer screen, but since we’re testing HUI…). The time code will change, indicating success.

7. Enable the control room inputs and outputs,

turn up the volume, and dance to the music.

H U I R E F E R E N C E G U I D E

HUI Rear Panel

MIDI Out MIDI In

MIDI

Interface

Keyboard Thru

Keyboard In

Mouse Thru

Mouse In

Expansion

Serial Port

Computer Connection

Headphones

Computer

L/Mono

R L/Mono R L/Mono

MONITOR INPUTS

MONITOR OUTPUTS

3 2 1

DAW audio interface

Talkback

Mic

Powered Monitors

such as Mackie HR824s

(or connect to a power amp

connected to a set of speakers)

Trigger

Internal

External

Mic 2 Mic 1

Insert Insert

Out

QUICK START

Page 10

H U I R E F E R E N C E G U I D E

HUI FEATURES AND CONTROLS

Front Panel (Control Surface)

Channel Strip

NOTE: The functions of some of these switches depend on your particular DAW software. Therefore, you may wish to consult your DAW manual for further details.

Rec/Rdy (Record/Ready) switch. This

switch arms or disables the channel for recording.

Insert switch. This switch calls up inserts

for editing, and also allows you to bypass all inserts on the channel when the master switch is pressed (see bo at right). Makes it easy to access DSP (digital signal processing) software additions. (In Pro Tools these are called Plug-Ins.)

V-Sel switch. This switch toggles be-

tween the various functions of the V-Pot, such as I/O routing assignment, Send Mute switching (when the master gaged), and Select when applying the default function.

Pan/Send V-Pot™. This

“soft” potentiometer is used to adjust the send level and pan, to choose items from scrollable I/O assignment lists, and to determine destinations for sends.

Auto switch. For enabling

automation on the channel.

Solo switch. For isolating

a channel’s signal.

Mute switch. For defeat-

ing the track’s signal.

Scribble strip. A four-

character LED dot-matrix display for the channel’s name, group membership status, input and output source for the channel, send and insert status, and pre/ post status display for sends. Names are entered in the DAW software.

Select switch. This switch

is used to choose a channel for channel-based editing or assignment commands, such as groups, assignment, etc.

Touch-sensitive motor

faders. These 100mm faders are

for controlling the channel’s levels, aux returns, MIDI track, and master fader levels. The eight faders move relative to the activity of the currently chosen bank of on-screen faders.

MUTE

switch is en-

BYPASS

REC/RDY

INSERT

V-SEL

PAN/SEND

AUTO

SOLO

MUTE

SELECT

Dual LED ladders. (Not shown here.)

Display mono or stereo audio levels, according to the DAW specifications. The Clip LED comes on at 0dBFS.

For Pro Tools users: When a channel is designated as mono, only the left meter ladder lights up. Likewise, if the channel is being used as a stereo channel, both ladders operate. (These meters are located in the meter bridge directly above each channel strip.)

Left Control Strip

Rec/Rdy All switch. This switch is used

to enable (or defeat) all tracks for recording.

Bypass switch. This switch allows you

to bypass any channel inserts (hardware or DSP Plug-Ins) on any HUI channel(s) you have selected.

Select/Assign switches and scribble strip. These switches are

used to globally determine what a track’s V-Pot will control. Included in this section are:

A–E

PAN, MUTE,

SHIFT.

The scribble strip

shows what the

SENDS

and

V-POT

is doing, as well as send destination and I/O routing of an individual channel strip.

Suspend/Default

switches.

SUSPEND

temporarily suspends all automation functions (globally).

DEFAULT

is used to set selected channel(s) back to the original, default settings. Use the

LECT

DEFAULT/SE-

9 switches to

reset faders, and the

DEFAULT/V-SEL

switches to reset sends and pans.

Input/Output/As-

sign switches. These

switches are used for signal routing assignment(s). By selecting combinations of these switches and the

V-SEL

SELECT

and

switches, channel I/O and send (bus) I/O assignments are made.

SEND A

SEND B

SEND C

SEND D

SEND E

PAN

ASSIGN

INPUT

OUTPUT

TRANSPORT

EDIT

MIX

KEYBOARD SHORTCUTS

UNDO SAVE

EDIT MODE EDIT TOOL

SHIFT/ADD

CTRL/CLUTCH

REC/RDY ALL

BYPASS

MUTE

SHIFT

SELECT-ASSIGN

SUSPEND

DEFAULT

ASSIGN

BANK

CHANNEL

WINDOW

ALT

STATUS

MEM-LOC

OPTION/ALL

ALT/FINE

HUI FEATURES AND CONTROLS

Page 11

Channel/Bank select switches. Scroll

switches to move back and forth across fader channels on the DAW mixing window. scrolls one channel at a time,

BANK

CHANNEL

scrolls

eight channels at a time.

Window switch matrix. These switches

allow you to select various DAW windows. Pressing any switch will bring that window to the foreground on your computer screen.

Keyboard Shortcuts switch matrix.

The four upper switches match other shortcut or software menu modes in your DAW, while the four lower “alternate function” switches emulate their computer keyboard counterparts.

DSP Edit/Assign Section

NOTE: The functions of some of these switches depend on your particular DAW software. Therefore, you may want to consult your DAW manual for further details.

40 x 2 VFD display. Located in the

meter bridge, this 40-character wide by 2-line VFD (vacuum fluorescent display) shows up to four Plug-Ins or up to eight Plug-In parameters. The VFD is also used to display general HUI info.

Note: You can adjust the brightness of the VFD by pressing and holding the OPT/ALL switch and repeatedly pressing the INSERT/ PARAM switch. This toggles among four levels of brightness.

Assign/Compare/Bypass switches.

The

ASSIGN

switch allows you to assign a

DSP addition (or Plug-In) to a channel strip;

COMPARE

allows you to compare the current DSP parameter setting with the previous one; and

BYPASS

allows you to bypass DSP parameters or any DSP additions assigned to the channel, as applicable.

Insert/Param(eter) switch. Allows you

to toggle the

VFD

between the DSP addition assigned to a particular insert, or the DSP addition parameters (for editing).

Scroll control. Used in conjunction with

the

INSERT/PARAM

the

VFD

between Inserts 1-4 and Insert 5, or

switch, it either toggles

scrolls through control parameter pages for the currently active DSP addition.

Select switch and V-Pot™. These V-

Pots and Select switches allow you to assign Plug-Ins and edit Plug-In parameters corresponding to the VFD and software screen displays.

H U I R E F E R E N C E G U I D E

ASSIGN

COMPARE

BYPASS

Welcome to --- HUI--- by MACKIE DESIGNS Firmware version 1.0

SELECT

SELECT SELECT

SELECT

DSP EDIT/ASSIGN

SELECT

HUI FEATURES AND CONTROLS

INSERT PARAM

SCROLL

Page 12

H U I R E F E R E N C E G U I D E

Switch Matrix Section

NOTE: The functions of some of these switches depend on your particular DAW software. Therefore, you may want to consult your DAW manual for further details.

This section contains switches for global automation enabling, mode selection, group creation, and more.

Function (“F”) keys. These keys pro-

vide a number of special functions relating to the operation of the HUI. Refer to the table on page 31 in the “Specifications” section for details.

Auto Enable switches. These switches

globally enable automation for

PAN, SEND, PLUG IN

Auto Mode switches. These switches

arm (or disable) automation on individual channels or channel groups. Options are

TOUCH, LATCH, WRITE, TRIM

Status/Group switches. These switches

are used to query automation, monitor, and group status, and to create and change groups. They include

ATE

PHASE

Edit switches. These switches perform

standard editing functions, including

TURE

SEPARATE, CUT, COPY, PASTE

DELETE

, and

SEND MUTE

FADER, MUTE

READ

, and

OFF

AUTO, GROUP, MONITOR, CRE-

, and

SUSPEND

CAP-

, and

Time Code Display and mode LEDs.

Shows current time location in either time code, feet, or beats. LEDs indicate which mode is being displayed. If no LED is lit, the display is in standard minutes/seconds mode.

Note: Once communication is established between HUI and the DAW software, the decimal point in the lower right corner of the Time Code Display blinks (once per second). If incoming MIDI communication is disrupted for any reason, the Time Code Display will read “Off Line.”

Rude Solo Light. A gentle reminder that

a channel (or channels) in your mix session is soloed, whether it’s part of the current bank of eight channels or not.

Locate/Numerics keypad. Equivalent to

its computer keyboard counterpart.

Control Room Section

The features found in this parcel of real estate (pictured on the next page) were included to let you use HUI without having to dedicate a mixer to monitoring functions. You can control input and output sources, as well as master volume, from this section. With the talkback features you can slate takes or talk to the voice talent, either with the in-panel talkback mic or with an external mic plugged into HUI’s backside. We’re sure you’ll find these features quite useful in your daily DAW work. (See page 18 for more info.)

AUTO ENABLE AUTO MODE EDITSTATUS/GROUP

FADER

PAN

PLUG IN SEND MUTE

TIME CODE

FEET

BEATS

MUTE

SEND

F3 F4 F5

READ TOUCH

LATCH

TRIM

WRITE

OFF

RUDE SOLO

LIGHT

AUTO

MONITOR

PHASE SUSPEND

GROUP

CREATE

LOCAT E/NUMERIC S

CLR

7 8 9

4 5 6

1 2 3

CAPTURE

CUT

PASTE

F8/ESC

SEPARATE

COPY

DELETE

E N

HUI FEATURES AND CONTROLS

Page 13

TALKBACK

MASTER

VOLUME

MUTE

OUTPUT 1

DIM

1:1 DISCRETE MONO

INPUT 1

INPUT 3

INPUT 2

OUTPUT 3/

PHONES

OUTPUT 2

LEVEL 1

LEVEL 3

LEVEL 2

CONTROL ROOM

MIC

LEVEL

MAX

CONTROL ROOM

Input source select switches. These

switches allow you to monitor whichever stereo input sources you have selected. Labeled

PUT 1

INPUT 2,

to the

MONITOR INPUTS 1, 2, and 3

and

INPUT 3

, they correspond

HUI’s rear panel.

1:1 Discrete switch. This switch deter-

mines whether HUI’s inputs act as three stereo pairs assignable to any stereo output, or as six discrete mono inputs assigned to their corresponding outputs only (used for surround-sound mixing).

Mono switch. When this switch is en-

gaged, HUI sums all signals through the

MASTER VOLUME

Master Volume control. This level con-

control into one mono signal.

trol determines the overall level of the currently selected monitor source(s).

Output level controls. Each one of these

controls adjusts the output level of its respective audio output pair.

Output select switches. These switches

determine which monitor outputs are being used. Labeled

OUTPUT 3/PHONES MONITOR OUTPUTS 1, 2, 3

OUTPUT 1, OUTPUT 2,

, they correspond to the

and

jacks on HUI’s rear panel.

Mute and Dim switches. Out of the box, the

MUTE

switch mutes all three

PUTS

(including

PHONES

MONITOR OUT-

), while HUI’s monitor output level by a set amount (default is 20dB).

To assign mute and dim control to specific out-

puts, press and hold the

MUTE

OPTION/ALL

LEDs in the

OUTPUT

blinking to indicate which

OPTION/ALL

and

DIM

assign switches begin

OUTPUTS

signed to that particular function. Press an switch to toggle the

DIM

assignment on and off.

OUTPUT

MUTE

When it’s set the way you want, press and hold the

OPTION/ALL OPTION/ALL

switches again to quit.

and

MUTE

DIM

To change the amount of

dim level (i.e., more or less

than the default 20dB), press and hold the and

DIM

switches to enter the Dim Assignment Mode (make sure the

OPTION/ALL

DIM

switch is turned on first if you want to monitor the dim level as

IN-

jacks on

and

PHONES

DIM

lowers

and

switches. The

are as-

you adjust it). Turn the

SCROLL

knob left or right to adjust the dim level, which appears in the VFD in 1dB increments. (The

SCROLL

knob is located on the front panel, in the upper right corner beneath the

Note: For more on how

OUTPUTS

work with HUI’s surround-sound ca-

INSERT/PARAM

MONITOR INPUTS

switch.)

and

pabilities, see pages 17 and 23.

Talkback Section

Talkback level control. This controls the

level of the internal (panel) talkback mic only.

Talkback panel mic. This on-board mic

allows you to communicate with the talent, slate take numbers into your session, etc.

Note: Be sure the INTERNAL/EXTERNAL select switch on the rear panel is set to INTERNAL when using the panel mic.

Talkback Enable switch. This switch

turns on/off the talkback panel mic circuit on both the panel mic and external talkback mics. Press and hold this switch to talk, and the red LED in the switch lights to indicate the talkback function is active. If using the

TRIGGER

jack on the rear panel to turn the talkback mic on and off, the red LED in the switch lights when the talkback function is active.

To route talkback assignment (it’s routed only

OUTPUT 3/PHONES

to and hold the

OPTION/ALL

switch. The LEDs in the begin blinking to indicate which assigned to the

OUTPUT

TALKBACK

switch to toggle the signment on and off. When it’s set the way you want, press and hold the

TALKBACK switches again to quit. Of course,

beware of feedback situations!

REMOTE TALKBK

as a default), press

and

TALKBACK

OUTPUT

assign switches

OUTPUTS

function. Press an

TALKBACK

OPTION/ALL

are

as-

and

H U I R E F E R E N C E G U I D E

HUI FEATURES AND CONTROLS

Page 14

H U I R E F E R E N C E G U I D E

Transport Section

NOTE: The functions of some of these switches depend on your particular DAW software. Therefore, you may want to consult your DAW manual for further details.

Transport switches.

The top row of transport switches includes

AUDITION, PRE, IN, OUT

switches allow you to set up punch-in/punchout and playback locations.

•

AUDITION

you’ve designated for punch-in/punch-out.

PRE

sets up the amount of “pre-roll” before

• the actual punch-in point.

•

marks the point at which the punch-in

will begin.

•

OUT

marks the point at which the punch-in

will end (i.e., the “punch-out” point).

•

POST

sets up the amount of “post-roll” after

the punch-out point.

The second row of Transport switches in-

cludes:

QUICK PUNCH

RTZ

• DAW to the beginning of the session (or 0/zero).

END

• DAW to the end of the session.

•

ONLINE

(or to take it offline), and indicates online status.

, and

POST

. These

lets you play back the section

RTZ, END, ONLINE, LOOP

, and

returns the playback cursor in your

moves the playback cursor in your

is used to bring your DAW online

•

LOOP

allows you repeatedly play back a

section of your DAW session.

•

QUICK PUNCH

allows you to use your

DAW’s “quick punch” feature.

Similar to the transport buttons on a tape recorder or in your DAW, the third row of transport switches includes

STOP, PLAY

FWD

Mode/Arrow switches. These switches

, and

REWIND, FAST

RECORD

are used to navigate, zoom, and make selections in the waveform display. When

MODE

is toggled, the arrow keys act as horizontal/vertical view expander/contractors. When

MODE

is disabled, the arrow keys can be used as a cursor location device, similar in function to tab and arrow keys on a computer keyboard.

Jog Wheel. This optical encoder wheel

performs many functions (depending on your DAW). Because its function is determined by your DAW, we refer you to your DAW controller manual.

Scrub/Shuttle switches. These switches

control the function of the jog wheel. Again, refer to your DAW controller manual for their specific functions.

HUI FEATURES AND CONTROLS

MODE

AUDITION

RTZ

REWIND

PRE

END

FAST FWD STOP PLAY

ON LINE

OUT

LOOP

POST

QUICKPUNCH

RECORD

SCRUB

SHUTTLE

Page 15

Rear Panel

Controller Input/Output Section

Power cord receptacle and Power

switch. The power cord receptacle is a stan-

dard IEC connection for HUI’s power cord. Before plugging the power cord into an AC outlet, be sure it is firmly seated in the receptacle.

Note: For safety reasons, the AC outlet must be a “3-prong” outlet with hot, neutral, and ground terminals. Do not bypass the plug’s ground pin! In addition to the safety issue, this insures that the HUI’s chassis is properly grounded which is required for reliable operation of the faders’ touch circuits.

MIDI In/Out Connectors. These are

standard MIDI 5-pin DIN ports for connecting HUI to your MIDI interface. (Note: HUI must be connected to a dedicated MIDI input and output pair; these connectors cannot be merged or daisy-chained.)

Keyboard/Mouse ADB ports. Conve-

nient in/out throughput jacks for direct parallel connection of your ADB (Apple Desktop Bus) computer keyboard and mouse. These are used for extending the reach of your keyboard and mouse between your computer and HUI, not for actual control. See page 19 for more information.

Serial port, RS-232/422 switch. The

serial port is a standard 9-pin D-Sub connector for connecting HUI to the external DAW. The switch selects between RS-232 and RS-422 operation (the data stream is equivalent to MIDI). See page 19 and page 31 for pin out and other specifications.

Expansion Port. 9-pin D-Sub connector for

future connection of external control devices.

Footswitch Input jacks. Allows you to use

an external footswitch to toggle DAW functions such as loop, play, and record modes.

Relay Output jacks. Used to toggle ex-

ternal circuits for solo indication, “on-air” lights, recording lights, etc. See page 31 in the “Specifications” section for a block diagram of these jacks.

Analog Audio Input/Output Section

Monitor Inputs (x3). These six line-

level inputs (balanced or unbalanced) feed the control room section. They can be used either as three stereo pairs or as six discrete inputs.

Monitor Outputs (x3). These six line-

level outputs (balanced or unbalanced) from the control room section can be used either as three stereo pairs or as six discrete outputs.

Headphones jack. This is where you plug

in your stereo headphones. Its signal is shared with (as well as isolated from)

PUT 3

, so the phones may be plugged in

simultaneously.

MONITOR OUT-

H U I R E F E R E N C E G U I D E

MANUFACTURING DATE

MONITOR INPUTS

L/MONO

RELAY

OUT

SERIAL NUMBER

WARNING:

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

REPLACE WITH THE SAME TYPE FUSE AND RATING. DISCONNECT SUPPLY CORD BEFORE CHANGING FUSE

CONCEIVED, DESIGNED, AND MANUFACTURED BY MACKIE DESIGNS INC • WOODINVILLE • WA • 98072 • USA • MADE IN USA • FABRIQUE AU USA • PATENTS PENDING

MIDI IN

120V, 60Hz, .85A

FUSE 1.25A, 250V SLOW

POWER

MACKIE DESIGNS THIS DEVICE COMPLIES WITH PART 15 OF THE FCC RULES. OPERATION IS SUBJECT TO THE FOLLOWING T WO CONDITIONS: 1) THIS DEVICE MAY NOT CAUSE HARMFUL INTERFERENCE AND 2) THIS DEVICE MUST ACCEPT A NY INTERFERENCE RECEIVED THAT MAY CAUSE UNDESIRED OPERATION

MIDI OUT

OFF

KEYBOARD

IN THRU

MOUSE

THRU

SERIAL PORT

EXPANSION

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS EQUIPMENT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE. DO NOT REMOVE COVER. NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL.

AVIS:

RISQUE DE CHOC ÉLECTRIQUE — NE PAS OUVRIR

UTILISE UN FUSIBLE DE RECHANGE DE MÊME TYPE. DEBRANCHER AVANT DE REMPLACER LE FUSIBLE

FOOTSWITCH

1 2

RS232 RS422

1 2

HUI FEATURES AND CONTROLS

MONITOR OUTPUTS

PHONES

Page 16

H U I R E F E R E N C E G U I D E

Talkback and Mic Preamp Section

Another great thing about HUI — if we don’t mind saying so ourselves — is its talkback and mic preamps. They allow you to add a vocal track, insert slating instructions, and perform other handy tasks, without having to resort to an outboard mixer.

Mic preamp Trim control.

Used to set initial gain stage for mic signal levels (Mic 1, Mic 2, and Talkback). Trim level from mic level (60dB down) to Unity (0dBu). Maximum input is +22dBu.

Phantom Power switch.

Push this switch to provide 48V of low-current DC to power condenser mics.

Talkback XLR mic input.

Used to connect an external talkback mic. Note that there is no dedicated output for this preamp, although talkback logic routing will send the signal to any or all of the

MONITOR OUTPUTS

panel assignable — see instructions for the Talkback Enable switch on page 13).

Mic Internal/External switch. Switches

talkback signal source between the front in-panel mic or an external talkback mic plugged in here.

5 Remote Talkback Trigger jack. The

talkback circuit is bidirectional — it can either trigger something or be triggered by something. To remotely trigger HUI’s talkback function, connect a normally-open on/off footswitch to this jack. This is for the producer who loves to sit comfortably back and communicate with the talent during crucial moments in a recording session.

Conversely, if the engineer wants to enable another console’s talkback function via the HUI front panel talkback switch, connect a TS cable between this jack and an unbalanced destination jack. When the front panel talkback switch is pressed (enabled), the line is pulled “low.” See page 31 for a diagram of this circuit.

XLR mic inputs. These are two of

Mackie’s high-headroom, low-noise mic preamps. Intended for mic-level inputs only, they offer plenty of gain and sonic clarity.

Inserts. 1/4″ TRS insert jacks for using

in-line external effects and signal processing with TRS to TS send and TS return “Y” cables. These connectors can also be used as direct outputs using a 1/4″ TS plug pushed in all the way (interrupting the audio signal completely),

(front

TALKBACK

0 60 dB 60 dB 60 dB0

PHANTOM

INTERNAL

MIC

EXTERNAL

SEND to processor

“tip”

“ring”

RETURN from processor

MIC 1

sleeve

TRIM

+48V

PHANTOM

MIC

INPUT

INSERT

OUT

BAL /

UNBAL

ring

tip

TRIM

+48V

MIC

INPUT

REMOTE

TALKBK

TRIGGER

MIC 2

TRIM

+48V

PHANTOM

MIC

INPUT

INSERT

OUT

BAL /

UNBAL

(TRS plug)

This plug connects to one of the mixer’s Channel Insert jacks.

Insert Jack “Y” Cable

TS PLUG

Channel Insert jack

Direct out with no signal interruption to output.

Insert only to first “click.”

TS PLUG

Channel Insert jack

Direct out with signal interruption to output.

Insert all the way in to the second “click.”

TRS PLUG

Channel Insert jack

For use as an effects loop.

(TIP = SEND to effect, RING = RETURN from effect.)

Insert Jack Options

or only to the first click, which does not interrupt the audio (see “Insert Jack Options” figure). The latter method allows you to use the insert as a direct out in combination with the mic output described next.

Outputs. 1/4″ TRS jacks for routing your

microphones to external sources, such as the DAW audio interface for recording. These linelevel outputs will provide either balanced and unbalanced signals.

HUI FEATURES AND CONTROLS

Page 17

AUDIO INPUT AND OUTPUT

Signal Flow Primer

Monitoring the audio signals can be done in either mono, stereo, or surround-sound (with six discrete channels). The overall input volume is controlled by the knob. The outputs are controlled by three separate output level controls and toggle switches (labeled

OUTPUT 1, 2,

(digitally controlled amplifiers) to control internal signal flow completely independent of the DAW. The signal is distributed according to which inputs and outputs are enabled.

Stereo Monitor Mode — enabled inputs’ stereo signals are

CRETE

stereo input sources may feed any of the stereo MONITOR OUTPUTS (OUTPUT 1, 2, and 3 Any or all of the three stereo inputs can be monitored simultaneously. That is, it’s up to you to disengage an input if you don’t want to monitor it. Any and all of the active at once, so you can send outputs to various pairs of speakers and various combinations of speaker pairs and recorders.

summed

In stereo monitor mode — with the

switch turned off — any of the three

MASTER VOLUME

and 3). HUI uses DCAs

into one stereo signal

OUTPUTS

can be

1:1 DIS-

1:1 Discrete Monitor Mode — enabled inputs are

not

summed

When HUI’s (the LED will light), the control room section becomes a discrete surround matrix capable of either standard 4.1 surround (L/R/Center/Surround/subwoofer), or 5.1 surround (L/R/Center/ Surround L/Surround R/subwoofer).

You can set up your DAW audio output configuration so that the various “stem” outputs correspond to the physical outputs on the DAW audio interface. These outputs are then patched to HUI’s

With

LEVEL

trims for the respective mix stems (L/R/Center/ Surround L/Surround R/subwoofer). The

TER VOLUME

output pairs, allowing you to trim the overall level of separate surround amp feeds.

Keep in mind that, when in discrete mode, output pairs share a common stereo level control and individual outputs cannot be adjusted independently.

Note: The on all outputs, regardless of whether HUI is in discrete mode. gether, regardless of mode. Refer to the audio block diagram on page 30 for further info.

1:1 DISCRETE

switch is engaged

MONITOR INPUTS 1, 2, and 3

1:1 DISCRETE

controls for

engaged, the output

OUTPUTS 1, 2, and 3

controls the level for all three

DIM

and

MUTE

controls operate

MONO

, too, sums all inputs to-

act as

MAS-

H U I R E F E R E N C E G U I D E

Stereo

Input 1 on

Stereo

Input 2 on

(Stereo

Input 3 off)

Input 1

(mono pair)

Input 2

(mono pair)

Input 3

(mono pair)

(switched OFF)

INPUT 1

INPUT 2

INPUT 3

(switched ON)

INPUT 1

INPUT 2

INPUT 3

CONTROL ROOM

1:1 DISCRETE MONO

MAX

MASTER

VOLUME

MUTE

DIM

LEVEL 1

LEVEL 2

LEVEL 3

STEREO Monitor Mode

CONTROL ROOM

1:1 DISCRETE MONO

MAX

MASTER

VOLUME

MUTE

DIM

LEVEL 1

LEVEL 2

LEVEL 3

OUTPUT 1

OUTPUT 2

OUTPUT 3/

PHONES

OUTPUT 1

OUTPUT 2

OUTPUT 3/

PHONES

(Output 1 switched off)

Output 2 on; signals 1 & 2 mixed

Output 3 on; signals 1 & 2 mixed

Output 1 controls Input 1 only

Output 2 controls Input 2 only

Output 3 controls Input 3 only

1:1 DISCRETE Monitor Mode

AUDIO INPUT AND OUTPUT

Page 18

H U I R E F E R E N C E G U I D E

Analog Audio Connections

Microphones

HUI has two stand-alone microphone preamplifiers for connecting mics for use during recording. These mic preamps are of the same high-headroom, low-noise design found on Mackie’s celebrated 8•Bus and SR Series mixing consoles. Because we know you don’t want to run your quality mics through second-rate preamps, we use preamps with large-emitter-geometry, conjugate-pair transistors, allowing them to sound as good as the preamps on the most expensive consoles.

Connect your mics to the HUI preamps by using an appropriate cable with XLR connectors. (Pin 1=Shield [Ground], Pin 2=Signal High [+], Pin 3=Signal Low [–].)

Adjusting the Mic Trim Control

To get the best signal-to-noise ratio, it is important to set the

1. Connect the microphone to the

PUT

connector. Push in the

switch if required for your microphone.

2. Turn the

down (counterclockwise).

3. Disconnect any external gear connected

to the

INSERT

4. Connect the to the input of the DAW audio interface. Engage the Rec/Rdy function on that channel, and set its input level to unity gain.

Talkback

Mic

MIC TRIM

TRIM

level control all the way

jack.

BAL/UNBAL OUT

Studio

Mic 2

controls properly.

+48V PHANTOM

Studio

Mic 1

MIC IN-

connector

5. Make appropriate “noise” into the microphone. For example, have a performer play/ sing/strike something or someone, etc. at the level they’re going to record or perform. Don’t just play a single sustained note, but rather, jam away as you would during a recording or performance. You might want to roll an already-recorded track from your recorder.

6. Adjust the

TRIM

level control. The goal is to produce the highest signal level possible without distorting the mic preamp stage, and to attain the highest bit level when the analog signal is converted to digital, without exceeding the maximum digital value (which results in digital clipping). As a general rule, you want the meter on the DAW audio interface to read at or around –15 dB. The peaks should regularly hit, and occasionally exceed, the –15 dB designation on the meter.

7. If you connect an external processor to the INSERT jack, you may need to readjust the input level control for the DAW audio interface.

Talkback Mic

Though HUI has its own talkback mic on the front panel, you may want to connect an external talkback mic of your own. That’s why we’ve included a talkback mic preamp on the rear panel. This mic preamp is identical to the other two mic preamps (described above), giving you a total of three high-quality mic inputs. Connect your external talkback mic the same way you would the other mics. Be sure the talkback

TRIM

control is turned up (adjust to taste).

The

MIC INTERNAL/EXTERNAL

HUI’s rear panel lets you choose between the front in-panel mic or an external talkback mic. Be sure it is switched according to your needs.

switch on

Talkback

Mic

Trigger Out

Momentary Footswitch

AUDIO INPUT AND OUTPUT

Internal

External

(optional)

Mic 2 Mic 1

Insert Insert

Out

DAW audio interface

Compressor

Monitor Outputs

To connect studio monitors (like a pair of Mackie’s HR824s) to HUI, simply connect one end of your cables (with 1/4″ TRS plugs) into

MONITOR OUTPUT 1

speaker or mono output; right is for Right speaker output), and the other ends to your studio monitors.

HUI features three pairs of monitor output jacks, so you can run up to three sets of monitors at one time. You may have one set of monitors in your control room, and one or two others running to various other places like vocal booths or the like. Or you may want to audition your mixes through three different types of speakers (monitors).

(the left one is for Left

Page 19

These outputs are designed for monitoring purposes. We do not recommend mixing through this output section due to the possibility of feedback routing, and to the fact that smooth fades, if applicable, may experience some “zippering” inherent to digitally controlled amplifiers (DCAs). Although these are high quality DCAs, they are not volume smoothed (interpolated) between their discrete volume levels. The volume taper is mapped to resemble the taper of our analog mixer rotary pots.

DIGITAL CONNECTIONS

Keyboard (computer)

You can “extend ” the use of your computer’s keyboard by connecting the keyboard to HUI. Simply connect a 4-pin ADB cable from your keyboard to HUI’s another 4-pin ADB cable from your computer to HUI’s

KEYBOARD THRU

board can be in closer proximity to HUI.

Note: This extra feature is not required in order to use HUI — it is there as a convenience to those who may need the extra length. The ADB specification limits the ADB cable length to 5 meters (about 16 feet).

KEYBOARD IN

jack. Now your key-

jack. Run

H U I R E F E R E N C E G U I D E

MIDI

In order to operate, HUI must be connected to a MIDI interface. The MIDI interface is in turn connected to the external computer used with your DAW.

Connect HUI to a MIDI interface by connecting one MIDI cable between HUI’s port and the interface’s MIDI OUT port. Likewise, the other cable should be connected between HUI’s interface’s MIDI IN port. Now HUI and your MIDI interface can talk to each other, compare recipes, and share football scores.

MIDI OUT

port and the

MIDI IN

RS-232/RS-422 Serial Port

To use HUI in conjunction with a computer, run a cable with a 9-pin D-Sub connector from HUI’s

SERIAL PORT

The serial port on HUI bidirectionally transfers data between a computer’s RS-232 or RS-422 serial port and HUI. The only difference between using the rate of transmission of the data (the serial port operates at 38.4K Baud and MIDI operates at

31.25K Baud) and the general physical hardware (9-pin D-Sub vs. 5-pin DIN, respectively). The actual data transferred is the same.

For RS-232: Pin 2=TXD

For RS-422: Pin 2=TX–

Use the following serial communications parameters when using the

to the computer’s COM port.

SERIAL

and

MIDI

ports is the

Pin 3=RXD Pin 5=Ground

Pin 3=RX+ Pin 4=Ground Pin 7 =TX+ Pin 8=RX–

SERIAL

port:

Baud rate: 38.4K Parity: None Data bits: 8 Stop bits: 1

Mouse

Similarly, you can extend the use of your mouse (or trackball if you’re supremely cool) by connecting it to HUI. Although most Apple computers allow you to connect the mouse directly to the keyboard, some models have more than one ADB connector on the computer. Using a 4-pin ADB cable, connect one end to your computer and the other to HUI’s jack. Then run another 4-pin ADB cable from

MOUSE IN

HUI’s trackball. (You’ll probably be using the cable that is hardwired to your mouse — if you use a trackball you’ll need a separate cable.)

You can use the MOUSE I/O to extend a second keyboard/mouse to another computer, which you might use for sequencing or some other purpose.

A note regarding ADB port and MIDI communication: HUI communicates with the host DAW through the MIDI IN/OUT connectors. The mouse and computer keyboard communicate with the DAW through the ADB connectors. The Mouse and Keyboard IN/OUT connectors are wired straight-through, so there is no direct interaction with the HUI, MIDI or SERIAL ports.

Even though both the HUI and the computer keyboard have common modifier switches such as SHIFT, OPTION, ALT, CONTROL, F-keys, etc., the DAW determines how these keys operate and interact with one another. For example, pressing the SHIFT/ADD button on the HUI in conjunction with a mouse click may not work the same as pressing the SHIFT key on the keyboard in conjunction with a mouse click.

jack to your mouse or

MOUSE THRU

Expansion Port

This port is nestled on HUI’s backside for use with future products.

DIGITAL CONNECTIONS

Page 20

H U I R E F E R E N C E G U I D E

Keyboard

Mouse

2nd Keyboard/Mouse (optional)

Mouse

MIDI OUT

MIDI IN

MIDI Interface

Keyboard In

Keyboard Thru

Typical System Hookup

To Computer Keyboard Po r t

Future Products

Mouse In

Mouse Thru

To 2nd Computer Keyboard Po r t

Computer Serial Connection

Footswitch

Play ON/OFF

For

Expansion Serial Port

To Computer Serial Port (Optional)

Footswitch

Record ON/OFF

Note: The Footswitch In and Relay Out operations are defined by the DAW

Footswitch In

Relay Out

software (see DAW MIDI Controller's Guide). This figure shows one example of how they might be used.

(example: triggered by RECORD switch)

RECORDING IN PROGRESS

(example: triggered by PLAY switch)

Computer 2nd Computer (optional)

ON THE AIR

DIGITAL INPUT AND OUTPUT

Page 21

L/Mono

Headphones

Cassette Deck

(for dubbing

client copies, etc.)

Powered

Control Room Monitors

DAT

R L/Mono R L/Mono R

MONITOR INPUTS

MONITOR OUTPUTS

3 2 1

CD Player

DAW audio interface

or computer audio card

Headphones

DAT

(same as above

for 2-track mastering)

882 or 888 outputs

APPLICATION HOOKUPS

Some Application Basics

One of the first things to consider when configuring your studio with HUI is what type of application suits you best. If you produce commercials for TV or radio, the TV/Radio Production Hookup may be your best bet. If you record and mix soundtracks for surround sound, you’ll probably set up your studio similar to our Surround Sound Hookup.

One thing is certain: you’ll want to position HUI in a place central to your work area. It should be close enough to your computer, studio monitors, and of course mixer, to facilitate easy, ergonomic use. If you have your computer in an out-of-theway location (on the floor behind the console; in an hermetically-sealed coffin six feet under), you’ll want to run your computer keyboard and mouse connections from your computer to HUI. You can then use HUI’s

MOUSE IN

jacks to place the keyboard and mouse in close proximity to HUI and your mixer. (See “Digital Connections” Section, page 19, for more details.)

What follows are a few sample hookups. Each one shows you a basic setup, lists the equipment you’ll need, and gives a few tips and/or insights. Of course, your HUI hookup may be a variation on one of these themes — these are just suggestions, so see what you come up with.

KEYBOARD IN

and

H U I R E F E R E N C E G U I D E

TV/Radio Production Hookup

Scenario: Broadcast, multimedia. audiofor-video suite, production.

Source Material: Prerecorded sound files, music, voiceovers, sound effects, compact disc, videotape, etc.

Outputs: One or more speaker pairs, headphones, mixdown deck (cassette or DAT).

Audio Hookup: Multiple stereo sources into the inputs. The DAW interface or soundcard can play back prerecorded material in playlist or some other composite fashion. The CD and DAT are for A–B playback comparison purposes, extra material, sound check, test tones, etc. The DAT output feeding HUI

INPUT 3

being mixed to from HUI ful of feedback loops while recording!)

the computer/DAW.

may be the one master deck that is

Digital Control Hookup: MIDI I/O for HUI to

Special Notes: To avoid feedback during

tracking, do not feed outputs to record-engaged inputs of the same device.

OUTPUT 3

TV/Radio Production Hookup

. (Be care-

APPLICATION HOOKUPS

Page 22

H U I R E F E R E N C E G U I D E

Tracking/Mixing Hookup

Scenario: Broadcast, multimedia, audio-for-

video suite, production, home studio recording, mixdown, playback.

Source Material: Live audio (vocals, guitars,

dog, etc.), samplers, synths, drum machines, prerecorded tracks.

Outputs: To DAW interface, mixdown deck,

speaker pair(s), headphones, effects loop from inserts.

Audio Hookup:

Use Stereo Monitor Mode. Tracking: One or two mics are plugged into HUI’s excellent mic preamps (guitar/vocal, vocal duo, etc.). A stereo compressor/limiter is inline using the insert (compressor/limiter separated as two mono units). The mic’s line output is routed to the DAW audio interface either directly or through a microphone mixer. Overdubbing: Accomplished by recording newly-enabled DAW tracks while monitoring DAW output of previously laid-down tracks through HUI HUI hookup ( nal mastering tasks.

MONITOR INPUT 3

. The DAT/

MONITOR OUTPUT 2

) is for fi-

Mixdown: After you’ve recorded all the tracks on the DAW, it’s time to automate the mixdown. Follow your DAW’s instructions on creating and automating a session.

MONITOR OUTPUT 3

is used for monitor speakers. When you finally have it right, simply run the session one last time with the DAT deck in record mode and its inputs connected to HUI’s

MONITOR OUTPUT 2.

Digital Control Hookup: Connect MIDI I/O

from HUI to the computer/DAW. Any other sources that might need to be synchronized to the DAW are totally optional and studio-specific.

Special Notes: Use the

MONO

button in the Control Room section to determine phase cancellation during recording (i.e. mics cancelling out each other).

MONO

is also a useful check for stereo material that is to be aired for mono broadcast (again, as a level balance and phase cancellation check).

Headphones

DAW Audio Interface

882 or 888 outputs

L/Mono

R L/Mono R L/Mono

3 2 1

Power Amp

Speaker Selector Box

Speakers

MONITOR INPUTS

MONITOR OUTPUTS

DAT

(actually same one

as above)

DAT

Mic

Internal

External

Voice Talent

Slating

Talk Back

Talkback

Mic

Trigger Out

Mic 2

Mic 2 Mic 1

Insert

Voice Talent

Mic 1

Out

Insert

Stereo EFX/ Compressor

Tracking/Mixing Hookup

APPLICATION HOOKUPS

Speakers A

Speakers C

Page 23

Surround-Sound Hookup

Scenario: Film, DVD, home theater mixing. Source Material: Dialog, sound effects, mu-

sic, ambience stems, Foley, etc.

Outputs: As above. Audio Hookup: To patchbay and HUI.

For monitoring when recording or mixing for surround-sound, we suggest the following discrete signal arrangements. Of course, using a half-normalled or multed patchbay to simultaneously feed the signals to the final mix recording deck and to HUI (for monitoring) would make life much easier. Consult your favorite pro audio or music dealer for more information on patchbays.

Be sure the 1:1 DISCRETE button is switched on for the following applications.

For 5.1 Surround-Sound

On HUI’s rear panel, connect your DAW audio interface outputs to:

Input 1 = L/R inputs

Input 2 = L/R Surround inputs

Input 3 = Center/Subwoofer inputs Output assignments (to control room amplifiers) would follow the same basic signal routing paths.

For 4.1 Surround-Sound

On HUI’s rear panel, connect your DAW audio interface outputs to:

Input 1 = L/R inputs

Input 2 = Center/Mono surround inputs

Input 3 = Subwoofer Output assignments (to control room amplifiers) would follow the same basic signal routing paths.

Digital Control Hookup: Studio sync as applicable.

For further explanation of HUI’s surroundsound monitoring abilities, turn back to page 17.

DAW audio interface

H U I R E F E R E N C E G U I D E

Surround-Sound Hookup (5.1 configuration shown)

(Sub) (C) (L/S) (R/S) (L) (R)

3 2 1

Power Amp 3

Subwoofer Center

Speaker

MONITOR INPUTS

MONITOR OUTPUTS

Power Amp 2

Left

Surround

Speaker

Right

Surround

Speaker

Power Amp 1

Left

Speaker

Right

APPLICATION HOOKUPS

Page 24

H U I R E F E R E N C E G U I D E

Full-On Major League Hookup

Scenario: Any audio application with a

plethora of inputs to stereo final master. HUI is the control room hub, so the mains or control room outputs of the mixer and DAW feed HUI.

Source Material: Live audio, synths, sam-

plers, multitracks, DAW tracks, etc.

Outputs: HUI’s

phone amp/mixer for further distribution to multiple headphone pairs. a dubbing or mastering deck. routed to a speaker selector box so multiple speaker pairs can be used.

Audio Hookup:

Tracking: Normally, live audio goes either to tape or hard disk, while MIDI-sequenced synth, samplers, etc. are used to play against during overdub or as final mixdown “virtual” tracks. Virtual tracks are good for saving tape and hard disk space, and avoiding added noise through additional audio transfer and tracking.

• The mixer mains, the mastering deck, and the DAW feed HUI’s inputs, for control room monitoring purposes.

Full-On Major League Hookup

Multiple additional inputs:

keyboards, drum machines,

CD players, mastering decks, etc.

OUTPUT 1

OUTPUT 2

buses

is fed to a head-

goes to

OUTPUT 3

• The mixer aux sends, DAW aux send buses (available in Pro Tools 4.1, for example), and HUI

OUTPUT 1

feed the external headphone mixer — all for extra and/or remote monitoring purposes.

• HUI

OUTPUT 3

feeds a speaker selector for A/B comparison of big vs. small speakers, mono level-balancing, etc.

• Mics are used as: direct-to-DAW feeds for boosting signals to line level, or as extra mic preamps to feed line inputs on the mixer.

• The engineer’s talkback mic is set to feed all of the monitor outputs.

• A stereo compressor/limiter feeds the inserts as two mono compressor/limiter units. Digital Control Hookup: HUI MIDI I/O, as

well as MIDI sync and triggering to all instruments to sync with digital audio from the DAW.

Special Notes: Use the

MONO

button in the Control Room section to determine phase cancellation during recording (i.e., mics cancelling out each other).

MONO

is also a useful check for stereo material that is to be aired for mono broadcast (again, as a level balance and phase cancellation check).

Mackie Mixer

(8•Bus, CR1604-VLZ, etc.)

CTRL

ROOM

AUX

SENDS

Headphones

or MAIN OUTS

L/Mono

3 2 1

Power Amp

Speaker Selector Box

Speakers

DAW audio interface

MASTERING DAT or CD RECORDER

R L/Mono R L/Mono

MONITOR INPUTS

MONITOR OUTPUTS

Cassette

dubbing

deck

MAIN

BUS

OUTS

Slating

Talkback

AUX

SEND

BUSES

Talkback

Trigger Out

Voice Talent

Mic 2

Mic

Mic 2 Mic 1

Insert

Voice

Talent

Mic 1

Insert

Out

Stereo EFX/ Compressor

APPLICATION HOOKUPS

Speakers A

Speakers C

Headphones Headphones

Headphone amp/mixer

Page 25

TROUBLESHOOTING

Having trouble getting things to “cooperate”? Consult the Troubleshooting chart on this page. It should point you in the general direction of things to check, etc. Then proceed to the following pages to help you narrow down the problem. If you believe the problem is HUI related, see the Service section on page 27.

Perform a HUI Hardware Self-Test

HUI has a built-in self-test routine which can help you determine if the problem you’re experiencing is HUI related or not. You need the following items to perform the self-test:

• One standard MIDI cable

• Two normally-open footswitches (or two

1/4” plugs or patch cords with tip shorted to sleeve)

1. Connect a MIDI cable from

HUI’s

MIDI OUT

jack. This allows HUI to run the test and then loop the information back to itself.

2. Connect a normally-open foot-

switch to each of the

jacks.

3. Plug the power cord into a 3prong AC outlet, that you know has a good safety ground. (You might want to test the outlet with an AC outlet tester. You can get one at Radio Shack or most hardware stores.)

4. Turn on HUI by pressing the

POWER

ing on the power, simultaneously press the tons (located in the “Keyboard Shortcuts” section at the lower left area of HUI’s front panel). You will see the 40x2 character VFD on the front panel light up and it will prompt you with the instructions to complete the self-test.

any time by simply turning off HUI’s Power switch.

displayed in the VFD completely. You want to be sure HUI is ready to roll when you’ve finished this test.

through the self-test. By now you may be thinking, “Why is it called a ‘self-test’ when I have to help it along?” It’s because we thought “Human-Assisted Semi-Self-Test” was practically an oxymoron, not to mention being a bit long.

switch on the rear panel.

5. Within three seconds after turn-

Note: You can quit the self-test at

Be sure to follow the instructions

6. Use the footswitch to step

SHIFT

jack to HUI’s

FOOTSWITCH

and

OPTION

MIDI

but-

Audio

If you’re having trouble getting audio through HUI, check the following:

General

• Say, uhhh, is the Sorry—gotta ask.

• Have you tried re-booting HUI by turning it off, waiting a few seconds, and then turning it back on again? Sometimes this can help alleviate the little burps and hiccups that can occur. (Be sure to turn down the volume on any connected power amps first BEFORE re-booting.)

Possible hardware problem?

YES

Perform

HUI hardware

“self-test”

(see this page)

YES

HUI hardware

tests OK?

YES

Cables/

connections

are OK?

YES

Verify certain

software settings?*

YES

Call DAW

manufacturer

POWER

switch turned on?

problem?

DAW software

Mackie Tech Support

for a Return Authorization

(RA) Number

Get suggestions from

your DAW software

manufacturer

• Is HUI selected as device

in OMS/FMS?

• “Personality" file loaded into system folder? (Pro Tools users: The “personality" file goes in the DAE folder inside the System folder)

Possible

software

YES

Consult

manual

Call

Repair

replace

H U I R E F E R E N C E G U I D E

TROUBLESHOOTING

Page 26

H U I R E F E R E N C E G U I D E

Bad Input

• Is an

• Is the proper

• Try unplugging any insert devices from the

• Make sure anything plugged into an

• Is the

• Are the input and output assignments set

• Try the same source signal in another

INPUT

nected output device? (i.e., speakers or head- phones)

FADER

INSERT

is plugged in correctly (i.e., to first click or second click, depending on what type of plugs you’re using).

correctly?

INPUT

Bad Output

• Are any of the MUTE switches turned on?

• Is an

• Is HUI connected to your studio monitors or

• Check your cables to make sure they’re all

• Try multiple source and destination substi-

• Check your signal flow and gain staging.

TOR OUTPUTS

(Digitally Controlled Amplifiers). Due to the discrete nature of a DCA, if you change the level quickly you may perceive a “zippering” effect as the volume ramps up or down. This is normal, and should not present a problem for normal monitoring purposes.

OUTPUT

other such speakers?

working properly.

tutes.

Note: The

Fader Touch-Circuits

The fader’s touch-circuits are designed to disengage the fader motor as soon as you touch the fader knob. When you release the knob, HUI again takes control over the fader (motor engages).

The fader knob is electrically conductive, and when your finger touches the knob, HUI senses your touch and sends a message to the DAW through the MIDI connection. The DAW reacts by sending a message back to the HUI to disengage the motor. You can observe the MIDI port IN and OUT LEDs blink on the MIDI interface when you touch a fader.

When you release the fader, HUI sends another message to the DAW, via MIDI. Depending on how the DAW is configured for that channel, it may send a message back to HUI to turn on the fader motor. Again, you can observe the MIDI message activity by watching the MIDI interface I/O LEDs blink.

assigned for output to a con-

FADER

up? Is the proper

assigned?

jacks.

INSERT

MASTER VOLUME

, set up exactly like the suspect input.

selected?

LEVEL

controls for the

use high-quality DCAs

turned up?

MONI-

If the motors continue to operate when you touch the knobs, HUI may not be properly grounded.

• Make sure the AC linecord is plugged into a

“3-prong” outlet. The outlet should be prop-

erly wired and grounded. If you’re not sure,

test it with a three-wire AC outlet tester,

available at most fine hardware stores or

electronics supply shops. It will tell you if

the polarity of the hot and neutral wires is

reversed and if the safety ground is discon-

nected.

• Try another AC outlet if you’re still not sure

if the outlet is properly wired.

• Make sure the plug’s ground pin is not by-

passed with a “3-pin to 2-pin” adapter. This

is important not only for product safety, but

to insure that HUI has an “earth” ground

reference for proper operation of the touch-

circuits.

If the touch circuits still fail to operate properly:

1. Try touching the HUI’s chassis with one hand to connect your body to the HUI’s ground reference, and touch the fader knob with the other hand.

2. Try installing an anti-static mat from an electronic supply shop, and connect the ground wire between the mat and the ground lug on the HUI (located just above the Power switch on the rear panel.)

3. Try installing a conductive metal sheet beneath the carpet at your workstation. Connect a wire between the metal sheet and the ground lug on the HUI.

If none of the above suggestions fix the problem, try the self-test on page 25. If that doesn’t work, and you’re sure it’s not a digital/ MIDI-related problem (see next section), refer to “Service” on the next page.

Digital/MIDI

HUI is a MIDI device. It must be able to send and receive MIDI data to work with your DAW. HUI uses a type of active sensing to let you know that MIDI communication is established. This is indicated by a blinking LED in the bottom right corner of the Time Code Display. Once MIDI communication is established, any interruption in the incoming MIDI data causes “OFFLINE” to be displayed in the VFD, and the LED to stop blinking.

TROUBLESHOOTING

Page 27

MIDI configuration software such as OMS (Open Music System) and FMS (FreeMIDI System) are commonly used to facilitate use of third party controllers such as HUI. Therefore, it’s important to make sure that HUI is defined as a controller device in your OMS or FMS software, and also as a controller in the DAW environment.

First, answer the following OMS/FMS-related questions before pressing the button (not included on HUI):

• Is AppleTalk off? The computer uses

AppleTalk to operate through its printer port; AppleTalk can block MIDI transmission.

• Does OMS/FMS “see” the MIDI interface?

• Is the interface speed set the same in both

the OMS/FMS setup and the hardware interface? MIDI won’t transfer information if the interface is set to one speed and the software is set to another.

• If you have multiple setups, is the setup

document being used the most current one (or recommended)?

• Are the MIDI instruments connected to the

appropriate port?

• Are all MIDI connections made properly?

(See page 20 for connection diagram.)

• Are your MIDI cables OK?

Many MIDI interface boxes provide indicators to let you know when MIDI data is being sent and received. If HUI passes the MIDI test in it’s self-test routine (see page 7), any MIDI communication problem must lie elsewhere. Touch one of HUI’s faders and move it a little. Does the MIDI interface “receive” indicator light? If it doesn’t, check or replace the MIDI cable between HUI’s MIDI OUT jack and the MIDI interface’s IN jack.

Now move one of the faders in the DAW software. Does the MIDI interface “transmit” indicator light? If not, check or replace the MIDI cable between the computer and the MIDI interface “To Computer” connector.

• Is the device information configured properly?

• Is the correct MIDI channel defined to the

proper MIDI port? (HUI operates on MIDI channel 1.)

• Is your MIDI interface working properly?

Is it connected to the correct port on your computer?

• Ummm, is the MIDI interface turned on?

PANIC

SERVICE

Service for HUIs bought and residing in the United States is available only Mackie Designs. (Do not contact Digidesign.) HUI owners outside the U.S. should consult their local Mackie dealer or distributor for service.

Now then, please follow these instructions:

1. Review the Troubleshooting section of this reference guide (pages 25-26). Assuming you’ve done so, and used up your voluminous reserves of common sense…

2. Have your HUI serial number ready — hopefully you copied it down in the front of this manual (page 3).

3. Call Mackie Tech Support at 800-258-6883 (8 AM to 5 PM, Pacific Time) to explain the problem. If it can’t be solved over the phone you will be issued an RA (Return Authorization) number. You must have an RA number

before you can obtain service from the factory.

4. Set aside the power cord, reference guide, and anything else you want to keep. This may or may not include half-eaten sandwiches and large sums of money. Mackie will only send back your HUI.

5. Pack the HUI in the original box, with the original foam innards or other packing materials. You DID save that stuff, didn’t you? If you didn’t, you’ll need to purchase a new box and packing materials from Mackie. Mackie is not

responsible for any damage resulting from shipments of product in “non-original” packaging.

6. Include a legible note stating your name, return shipping address (no P.O. boxes of course), daytime phone number, the RA number, and a detailed description of the problem, including how we can duplicate it.

7. Write the RA number in on top of the box.

8. Ship the HUI to Mackie. We recommend UPS (United Parcel Service), and suggest you get insurance on the package. Send HUI to this address:

Mackie Designs Inc. Service Department 16220 Wood-Red Rd. NE Woodinville, WA 98072

9. When we’re finished taking care of HUI, we’ll try to send it back to you within three business days. Ask Tech Support for current turnaround times when you call for your RA number. We normally send packages via UPS Blue (second-day air). But, if you rush your HUI to us via air mail, we’ll do the same for the return trip. This does not necessarily apply to non-warranty service.

huge letters

H U I R E F E R E N C E G U I D E

TROUBLESHOOTING / SERVICE

Page 28

H U I R E F E R E N C E G U I D E

SPECIFICATIONS

HUI MIDI Implementation Chart Version: 1.0 Date: 9/19/97

Function Transmitted Recognized Remarks

Basic Channel Default 1 1 Channel 1 only

Mode Default X X Not Applicable

Note O X 90 00 7F Echoed - sent and received Number True Voice X O 90 00 00 “active sensing” only Velocity Note ON X X

Aftertouch Keys X O meters

Pitch Bend X X Control Change 00-07 Faders 0C (2C) LEDs Fixed specification

Program Change true number X X System Exclusive X O Character displays, System Parameters System Common Song Pos X X

System Clock (F8) X O Increment frames display (+1) Real-time Commands X X

Aux All Notes Off X X Messages

Changed

Messages X X Altered X X

Note OFF

Channels X X

(20-27) Servo Faders Fader resolution 08-0B Ctrl Pots Relays (00-07 MSB) 0D Jog wheel Clicker (20-27 LSB) 0F (2F) Switches Tone 40-4C V-Pots Touch Off

Song Sel X X Tune X X

MTC X O MTC 1/4 frame Local On/Off X X

Active Sensing X * * see Note Number above System Reset X X

Mode 1: Omni On, Poly Mode 2: Omni On, Mono O: Yes Mode 3: Omni Off, Poly Mode 4: Omni Off, Mono X: No

RS-232 Connection Diagram

DB9

FEMALE

TXD

HUI

SERIAL PORT

RXD

3 4

GND

5 6 7 8 9

STANDARD DB9

COMPUTER CABLE

See page 19 for more pin configuration information.

RXD TXD

GND

DB9 FEMALE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

TO COMPUTER RS-232 PORT (May require an adapter to match connector on your computer)

SPECIFICATIONS

Page 29

+25

+20

+15

+10

0dBu

-5

-10

-15

-20

-60

+25

+20

+15

+10

0dBu

-5

-10

-15

-20

-60

STAND-ALONE MIC PREAMP DCA MONITOR CHANNEL

60 dB gain, trim up

0dB gain,

trim down

insert

+22 dB max. in (trim down) +22 dB max. in

bal./unbal.

line in

–6 dB mono mode

0 dB unbal out

+6 dB bal out

+22 dB max. unbal. out

+28 dB max. bal. out

balanced/unbalanced

outputs

snd rtn

+22 dB max. out

mic pre out

DCA

level and

master gain

at maximum

level and

master gain

at minimum

-90

MACKIE DESIGNS

HUI GAIN DIAGRAM

HUI.10/97

HUI Audio Section Gain Structure Diagram

H U I R E F E R E N C E G U I D E

SPECIFICATIONS

Page 30

H U I R E F E R E N C E G U I D E

DC voltage resistor XLR jack TRS jack balanced input

mix stage (on) LED switch (off)potentiometer switch controller

software control

Trim

Insert

Bal/Unbal Out

Mic Input

+48V

Phantom

Stand-alone Mic Preamp (1 of 2)

Phones Out

Output 1

Output 2

Output 3/Phones

Dim

Level

Master Volume

(DCA)

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

Mono

1:1 Discrete

—1—

—2—

—3—

L/Mono

+48V

Phantom

External Talkback

Mic Input

Internal Mic

Trim

External/

Internal

Talkback

Assign

Bal/Unbal

Monitor Inputs

Mackie Designs

Human User

Interface (HUI™)

for Digital Audio

Workstations

Block Diagram

Audio Section

v1.0 — 10/97

Input 1

Input 2

Input 3

Bal/Unbal

Monitor Outputs

Trim

Dim

—1—

—2—

—3—

Dim

Assign

Mute

To TB ASG 1

TB ASG 3

TB ASG 2

TB ASG 1

To TB ASG 2

To TB ASG 3

To DIM ASG 1

To DIM ASG 2

To DIM ASG 3

Mute

Assign

To MUTE ASG 1

To MUTE ASG 2

To MUTE ASG 3

MUTE ASG 1

Remote

Talkbk

Trigger

+5V

Right Bus

Left Bus

Mono

Bus

DIM ASG 1

MUTE ASG 2

DIM ASG 2

MUTE ASG 3

DIM ASG 3

HUI BLOCK DIAGRAM Audio Section

SPECIFICATIONS

Page 31

+5V

RS-232 9-Pin D-Sub Connector

Pin No. Function Pin 2 TXD Pin 3 RXD Pin 5 Ground

Expansion Port

Footswitch In

Logic

Active Low

1 and 2

Max Current: 5mA

FOOTSWITCH IN Block Diagram

Footswitch

Normally Open (N.O.)

H U I R E F E R E N C E G U I D E

Relay Out

1 and 2

Max Current: 100mA

RELAY OUT Block Diagram

+5V

Remote

Talkback

Talkbk

Trigger

Max Current: 5mA

Talkback

Bus

REMOTE TALKBACK TRIGGER Block Diagram

F-Key Function performed

F1 Clears clip and peak holds from the meter.

F2 Activates/deactivates Relay Outputs 1 and 2.

F3 Enables/disables the audible click function for

F4 Displays the version number of the HUI pers-

F5 Reserved for future expansion. OPT+F5 Enables/disables the audible click function for

(When activated, Relay Output 1 is controlled by the PLAY button in the Transport Section. Relay Output 2 is controlled by the RECORD button.)

the V-Pots below the VFD. This function applies only while in Assign mode.

onality file currently installed in the host computer.

the buttons.

+5V

Logic

Active Low

Footswitch

Normally Open (N.O.)

Serial Port

Serial Port Pin-Out Chart

RS-232 9-Pin D-Sub Connector

Pin No. Function Pin 2 TXD Pin 3 RXD Pin 5 Ground

RS-422 9-Pin D-Sub Connector

Pin No. Function Pin 2 TX– Pin 3 RX+ Pin 4 Ground Pin 7 TX+ Pin 8 RX–

Function Key Table

F6 Reserved for future expansion.

F7 Reserved for future expansion.

F8/ESC Serves as an escape switch to cancel any

assignment mode or onscreen dialog.

Expansion Port Pin-Out Chart

SPECIFICATIONS

Page 32

H U I R E F E R E N C E G U I D E

HUI Audio specifications

Signal-to-Noise Ratio

> 92 dB

E.I.N.

Microphone preamp 20Hz to 20kHz –129.5dBm

Total Harmonic Distortion

< 0.005%

Input 1,2,3 Left to Right Channel Crosstalk

@ Unity gain less than 80dB @ 10 kHz

Frequency Response

20Hz to 60kHz +0/–1dB 10Hz to 100kHz +0/–3dB

Maximum levels

Mic preamp input 22dBu All other inputs 22dBu

Unbalanced outputs 22dBu Balanced outputs 28dBu

DIM level

Adjustable 10dB-40dB attenuation

20.6"

Impedance

Mic preamp input 2.4kΩ All other inputs (other than inserts) >10kΩ

All balanced outputs 240Ω All unbalanced outputs 120Ω

Power Requirements

All configurations 60 watts

Fuse

120VAC 1.25A/250V Slo-Blo 100VAC 1.6A/230V Slo-Blo 230VAC 630mA/250V Slo-Blo

Weight

37 lb. (16.8 kg)

Dimensions

Height 6.5 inches (16.5cm) Width 20.6 inches (52.3cm) Depth Right Side 22.5 inches (57.2cm) Left Side 20.75 inches (57.2cm)

6.5"

SPECIFICATIONS

20.75"

Since we are always striving to make our products better by incorporating new and improved materials, components, and manufacturing methods, we reserve the right to change these specifications at any time without notice.

22.5"

HUI

WEIGHT

37 lbs.

(16.8 kg)

22.5"

Page 33

GLOSSARY

The following is an admittedly short glossary of audio terms used in this owner’s manual. The more basic terms can be found in a variety of places; we’d be foolish to forget to mention our web site. Go to www.mackie.com to find a more thorough audio glossary. Additionally, we recommend the following books:

The Audio Dictionary, by Glenn White; Tech Terms, by Peterson & Oppenheimer; Handbook for Sound Engineers, by Glen Ballou; and Sound Reinforcement Handbook, by Gary Davis.

active sensing

MIDI message echoing that occurs between HUI and the host DAW to confirm that communication is occuring. The right-hand decimal point in the Time Code Display blinks once per second to indicate that MIDI communication is established.

DAW

See digital audio workstation.

DSP

Abbreviation for digital signal processing. DSP can accomplish the same functions found in analog signal processors, but performs them mathematically in the digital domain, with more precision and accuracy than its analog counterpart. Since DSP is a software-based process, parameters and processing functions are easily changed and updated by revising the software, rather than redesigning the hardware. DSP can be found in an outboard effects device, such as a reverb or delay unit, or it can be integrated into a DAW or digital mixing console.

discrete channel

Used in reference to surround-sound applications, a discrete channel is separate or isolated from the stereo pair of channels it is normally associated with.

digital audio workstation (DAW)

A dedicated recording/editing software (application) and hardware system, used for hard disk (non-linear) random access playback and recording. Many DAWs are used with personal computers using Windows operating systems, though some use their own proprietary computers.

effects devices

External signal processors used to add reverb, delay, spatial, or psychoacoustic effects to an audio signal. An effects processor may be used as an insert processor (serial) on a particular input or subgroup, or it may be used via the aux send/return system (parallel). See also echo, reverb.

95 or Macintosh

FMS

Short for FreeMIDI System. FMS allows your computer to decipher information coming from the MIDI interface, which is connected to both your computer and HUI.

gain stage

An amplification point in a signal path, either within a system or a single device. Overall system gain is distributed between the various gain stages.

linear, non-linear

Linear audio recording and playback is sound that has been recorded to tape and played back in the same linear fashion. Non-linear recording and playback uses audio sound files that have been “recorded” to the hard disk of a computer. Though the sound file information may be stored in a random fashion on the hard disk, it is played back in the same linear way it was recorded.

line level

A signal whose level falls between –10dBu and +30dBu.

MIDI

Acronym for musical instrument digital interface. MIDI is the music industry’s standard

serial communication protocol. HUI uses MIDI to bidirectionally communicate with the DAW software. (Refer to the DAW controller documentation for specific MIDI routing and channel information prior to hookup.)

OMS

Short for Open Music System. OMS allows your computer to decipher information coming from the MIDI interface, which is connected to both your computer and HUI.

phantom power

A system of providing electrical power for condenser microphones (and some electronic pickup devices) from the sound mixer. The system is called phantom because the power is carried on standard microphone audio wiring in a way that is “invisible” to ordinary dynamic microphones. Mackie mixers use standard +48 volt DC power, switchable on or off. Most quality condenser microphones are designed to use +48 VDC phantom power. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Generally, phantom power is safe to use with non-condenser microphones as well, especially dynamic microphones. However, unbalanced microphones, and some electronic equipment (such as some wireless microphone receivers), can short out the phantom power and be severely damaged. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations and be careful!

H U I R E F E R E N C E G U I D E

GLOSSARY

Page 34

H U I R E F E R E N C E G U I D E

RS-232, RS-422 serial port connection

Two industry standard serial communication protocols, requiring different 9-pin wiring schemes. HUI’s RS-232/RS-422 serial port can be used with either type of connection, determined by switching to the appropriate protocol. RS-232 uses unbalanced drivers and receivers, in which one wire is used per signal. RS-422 uses balanced, or differential, drivers and receivers, which require two wires per signal. RS-232 works well for short runs (up to 50 feet), while RS-422 is recommended for longer runs (up to 1000 feet).

surround-sound

Multi-channel audio playback systems in 4, 5, or 6 channel formats. Surround-sound is typically found in movie theaters and home theater systems. HUI’s control room section can accommodate up to six discrete (separate) audio channels, for use in what is termed “5.1 surround.” (4.1 surround can also be monitored with HUI.)

touch-updatable motor fader

HUI’s fader knobs are made of conductive metalized plastic, which respond immediately to touch control via capacitive contact between the neutral (ground) control surface and the user. The fader motor uses a high resolution, tightly-tuned servo amplifier, which moves the fader knob and stem along a conductive plastic fader track.

Operationally, when you touch the knob, the motor disengages from the fader via internal and software control, concurrently sending out positional status from HUI to the DAW mixer map over MIDI or other serial communication. When you release the fader knob(s), the motor re-engages via control information from the DAW mixer map.

VFD

Abbreviation for vacuum fluorescent display. HUI’s VFD is an 80-character (40 characters by 2 lines) display that shows channel strip DSP functions and other HUI operation parameters.

V-Pot™

Abbreviation for virtual potentiometer, the VPot is considered a “soft knob” because it performs various functions determined by the DAW software being used with HUI. It acts as a continuous or variable controller and also reflects current value or position via its surrounding 12-segment LED collar.

COLOPHON

For Mackie Designs:

The HUI Reference Guide was written and

edited by MARSHALL GOOCH and BRIAN McCULLY. Additional contributions came from

Dave Franzwa, Jeff Gilbert, Paul Larson, Carl Malone, Wayne Newitt, and Mackie’s Tech Support Crew. Thanks also to Tom Bain for

the tutorials.

Layout, design, and graphic tweakage by

GOOCH, from an original concept by Ron Koliha. Original graphics by Sara Delahan.

Additional photo tweakage by Bruce Yunker. Proofreading and additional editing by LINN COMPTON.

This manual was produced using a whole

(Sammamish) slough of software, including

Adobe

PageMaker®, Illustrator®, and Photoshop and some other super-cool applications whose names we can’t remember. The machines used were Apple Macintosh of varying degrees of difficulty, with many exciting third-party peripherals and fun doohickeys attached.

For Digidesign:

interaction, in an amazingly patient and positive manner, thanks go to: Dave Lebolt, Mike

McRoberts, David Kwan, Mike Rockwell, Dave Conry, Eomann Faye, and Dave Frokker.

; Microsoft® Word, Deneba Canvas 5,

and Mac-clone models

For contributions to the product and great

GLOSSARY / COLOPHON

Page 35

HUI LIMITED WARRANTY

Please keep your sales receipt in a safe place.

H U I R E F E R E N C E G U I D E

A. Mackie warrants all materials, workmanship, and proper operation of the HUI for a period of one year from the original date of purchase. If you complete the optional questionnaire portion of the Product Registration Card, the warranty will be extended for an additional two years on all parts and labor, with the exception of faders and fader motors, which retain a one year warranty. If any defects are found in the materials or workmanship or if the product fails to function properly during the applicable warranty period, Mackie, at its option, will repair or replace the product. This warranty

applies only to equipment sold and delivered within the U.S. by Mackie or its authorized dealers.

B. Failure to return the card will not void the 1-year warranty.

C. Service and repairs of Mackie products are to be performed only at the factory. Unauthorized service, repairs or modifications will void this warranty.

D. To obtain factory service:

1. Call Mackie at 800/258-6883, 8AM to 5PM

Monday through Friday (Pacific Time) to get a Return Authorization (RA). Products returned without an RA number will be refused.

2. Pack the HUI in its original shipping carton. If you do not have the carton, just ask for one when you get your RA number, and we’ll send a shipping carton out promptly (at your expense). More information on packing can be found in the Service section of this manual. Also include a note explaining exactly how to duplicate the problem, a copy of the sales receipt with price and date showing, and your return street address (no P.O. boxes or route numbers, please!). If we cannot duplicate the problem at the Mackie Factory or establish the starting date of your Limited Warranty, we may, at our option, charge for service time.

3. Ship the product in its original shipping carton, freight prepaid to:

Mackie Designs Inc.

Service Department

16220 Wood-Red Road NE

Woodinville, WA, 98072, USA

IMPORTANT: Make sure that the RA number is plainly written on the shipping carton.

E. Mackie reserves the right to inspect any products

which may be the subject of any warranty claims before repair or replacement is carried out. Mackie may, at its option, require proof of the original date of purchase in the form of a dated copy of the original dealer’s invoice or sales receipt. Final determination of warranty coverage lies solely with Mackie Designs Inc.

F. Mackie products returned to Mackie and deemed eligible for repair or replacement under the terms of this warranty will be repaired or replaced within thirty days of receipt by Mackie at our rainforest factory complex. Products returned to Mackie that do not meet the terms of this Warranty will be repaired and returned C.O.D. with billing for labor, materials, return freight and insurance. Products repaired under warranty at Mackie's factory will be returned freight prepaid by Mackie to any location within the boundaries of the USA.

G. This warranty is extended to the original purchaser and to anyone who may subsequently purchase this product within the applicable warranty period.

H. This is your sole warranty. Mackie does not authorize any third party, including any dealer or sales representative, to assume any liability on behalf of Mackie Designs or to make any warranty for Mackie Designs.

I. THIS IS THE ONLY WARRANTY GIVEN BY MACKIE AND IS IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES. ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR ANY PARTICULAR PURPOSE, SHALL BE STRICTLY LIMITED IN DURATION TO ONE YEAR FROM THE DATE OF ORIGINAL PURCHASE FROM A DEALER. UPON EXPIRATION OF THE 1-YEAR WARRANTY PERIOD, MACKIE SHALL HAVE NO FURTHER WARRANTY OBLIGATION OF ANY KIND, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED. MACKIE SHALL IN NO EVENT BE OBLIGATED FOR ANY INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES THAT MAY RESULT FROM ANY DEFECT OR WARRANTY CLAIM, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED. Some states do not allow exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages or limitation on how long implied warranties last, so some of the above limitations and exclusions may not apply to you. This warranty provides specific legal rights. The purchaser has implied warranty rights and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.

HUI LIMITED WARRANTY

Page 36

Some of the

people at our

Woodinville,

Washington factory

who helped

design, build, sell,

and support your

product.

™

Mackie Designs Inc.

16220 Wood-Red Rd. NE • Woodinville, WA 98072 • USA

800/898-3211 • Outside the US: 425/487-4333

Fax: 425/487-4337 • www.mackie.com

E-mail: sales@mackie.com