General instructions
To reduce the risk of fire or electrical shock, do not expose this appliance to rain or moisture, direct
sunlight or excessive heat from sources such as radiators or spotlights. No user serviceable parts are inside. Repair and maintenance must be carried out by qualified personnel authorized by MUTEC GmbH!
The unit has been designed for operation in a standard domestic environment. Do NOT expose the unit
and its accessories to rain, moisture, direct sunlight or excessive heat produced by such heat sources as
radiators or spotlights! The free flow of air inside and around the unit must always be ensured.
C A U T I O N
R I S K O F
ELECTRICAL SHOCK!
Initi al operation
Prior to the initial operation of the unit , the appl iance, its accessories and p ackagi ng must be
inspecte d for any signs of phy sical d amage that may have occurr ed during transit. If th e unit has
been damaged m echanically o r if liqui ds have been spil led ins ide the enclosu re, the applian ce may
not be co nnected to the m ains or mu st be di sconn ecte d from th e mains im media tely! I f the unit i s
damag ed, ple ase do NOT return it to MUTEC GmbH , but noti fy your dealer a nd the shi pping com
pany immediat ely, othe rwi se claim s for dam age or replacement may not be granted.
If the device is left in a low-temperature environment for a long time and then is moved to a roomtemperature environment, condensation may occur on the inside and the exterior. To avoid shortcircuits and flashovers, be sure to wait one or two hours before putting the device into operation.
Power su pply
The device contains a self-adapting wide-range power supply supporting the majority of global standard line voltages within a range of 90…250 V, with no need for making adjustments. Make sure that
your line-voltage source provides a supply voltage within the specified range. In addition, make sure
that the device is properly grounded via the local electric installation.
Pleas e use the enclos ed powe r cord (see pac kaging ) to conne ct the unit to the mains. S witch th e
unit of f before you attempt to c onnec t it to the m ains. C onnec t the po wer cord to the unit , then
to a standard 3 -pin mains outl et. To draw t he power cord, never pull o n the cab le but on t he mains
plug!
The uni t must b e ground ed durin g opera tion!
For information on the power-inlet wiring, refer to the »Wirin g of conne ctor s« section in the
appendix. Disconnect the device from the mains when not using it for an extended period!
-
Decla ration of Conformity
We herewith confirm that the product complies with the European
Commission’s standards on electromagnetic compatibility.
Interference emission: EN 50081-1, 1992
Resistance to interference: EN 50082-1, 1992
Presupposed as operation condition is that all clock outputs are con
nected with high-quality and good shielded BNC 75 ohms cable.
This symbol, a flash of lightning inside a triangle, alerts
you to the presence of uninsulated dangerous voltage
inside the enclosure - voltage that may be sufficient to
constitute a risk of shock.
This symbol, an exclamation mark inside a triangle,
alerts you to important operating or safety instructions
in this manual.
WARRANTY REGULATIONS
§1 Warranty
MUTEC GmbH warrants the flawless performance of this product to the original buyer for a period of two (2) years from the date of purchase. If any failure occurs within
the specified warranty period that is caused by defects in material and/or workmanship, MUTEC GmbH shall either repair or replace the product free of charge within 90
days. The purchaser is not entitled to claim an inspection of the device free of charge during the warranty period. If the warranty claim proves to be justified, the product
will be returned freight prepaid by MUTEC GmbH within Germany. Outside Germany, the product will be returned with the additional international freight charges payable
by the customer. Warranty claims other than those indicated above are expressly excluded.
§2 Warranty transferability
This warranty is extended exclusively to the original buyer who bought the product from a MUTEC GmbH specialized dealer or distributor, and is not transferable to anyone
who may subsequently purchase this product. No other person (retail dealer, distributor, etc.) shall be entitled to give any warranty promise on behalf of MUTEC GmbH.
§3 Waranty regulations
The return of the completed registration card, or online registration on one of the websites specified below, is a condition of warranty. Failing to register the device before
returning it for repair will void the extended warranty.
The serial number on the returned device must match the one stated on the registration card or entered during online registration. Otherwise, the device will be
returned to the sender at the sender’s expense.
Any returned device must be accompanied by a detailed error description and a copy of the original sales receipt issued by a MUTEC dealer or distributor.
The device must be returned free of shipping expenses and in the original package, if possible; otherwise, the sender has to provide comparably protective packaging.
The sender is fully responsible for any damage or loss of the product when shipping it to MUTEC GmbH.
§4 Limitation of warranty
Damages caus ed by the f ollowi ng condi tions are not cove red by this warranty:
Damages caus ed by eve ry kind of normal wear and tear (e.g. displays, LE Ds, po tentio meter s, fad ers, s witc hes, button s, connecti ng elem ents , printe d label s, cove r
glass es, co ver prin ts, an d simila r part s).
Functional fa ilure of the produ ct cau sed by improper inst allati on (ple ase observ e CMOS components handling ins truc tions!), neglec t or misu se of
the pro duct , e.g. fai lure to op erate the unit in compliance with t he instruct ions gi ven in the u ser or s ervi ce manuals.
Damage cause d by any for m of ext ernal me chanical impa ct or mo dific ation.
Damage cause d by the us er’s failure to co nnec t and ope rate the unit in com plianc e with local safety regulatio ns.
Damage cause d by force majeure ( fire, e xplos ion, fl ood, li ghtning, war, vandalism, etc. ).
Consequent ial dama ges or de fect s in product s from ot her manu facturers a s well as any c osts result ing from a loss of p roduc tion.
Repair s carried out by personnel whi ch is not a uthorized from MUTEC GmbH will vo id the war ranty.
national, technical, or safety regulations in a country or of the customer do not constitute a warranty claim and should be set with MUTEC GmbH in advance.
§5 Repairs
To obtain warranty service, the buyer must call or write to MUTEC GmbH before returning the unit. All inquiries must be accompanied by a description of the problem and
the original buyer’s invoice. Devices shipped to MUTEC GmbH for repair without prior notice will be returned to the sender at the sender’s expense.
failure please contact:
Adaptations and modifications to the device made with regard to
In case of a functional
-
MUTEC Gesellschaft fuer Sy steme ntwicklung u nd Komponentenvertrieb mbH
Siekeweg 6/8 • 12 309 Be rlin • Ge rmany • Fo n 030 -74688 0- 0 • Fax 03 0-746 880 -99 • Tec support@MUTEC-net.de • www.MUTEC-net.de
JET and Jitter Elimination Technology are trademarks of TC Applied Technologies Ltd. The JET technology is used under sublicense from TC Applied Technologies Ltd., and is the intellectual property of
Sonopsis Ltd. Applicable patents include WO2004088845.
MUTEC GmbH assumes no liability for any incorrect information given in this manual. Please note that
all software/hardware product names are registered trademarks of their respective owners. No part of
this manual may be reproduced, copied or converted to a machine-readable form or electronical media
without a written permission of MUTEC GmbH. We reserve the right to change or improve our products
without prior notice.
Thank you very much for purchasing the MC-6, Digital Audio Format and
Sampling Rate Converter, from MUTEC!
General Function Description
The MC-6 is an extremely flexible, high-performance digital audio format
and sampling rate converter for AES3, AES3id and S/P-DIF. All digital audio
signals can be processed with sampling rates up to 192.0kHz, whereas
unidirectional and bidirectional conversion modes are available. Based on
latest FPGA designs, the MC-6 achieves levels of performance regarding
its signal quality, unique flexibility, clocking features and the 4 channel
sampling rate conversion engine (SRC), which are outstanding in today’s
industry!
Various operation modes enable the use of the MC-6 in many studio setups. Incoming digital audio signals are generally converted to all three
audio formats simultaneously, with or without samplimng rate conversion.
The SRC engine can be locked to Word Clock, AES11 and any digital audio
input in both, unidirectional and bidirectional operation modes.
Furthermore, the MC-6 offers an internal, low-jitter clock basis with high
accuracy to which the SRCs can be locked to, if no external reference is
available. This enables to run the MC-6 in set-ups where no separate master
clock system is available. Furthermore, in this operation mode the MC-6‘s
Word Clock output supplies a low-jitter reference clock signal which is of
same high accuracy as the internal clock basis. This can be used e.g. as master clock reference for the whole studio.
This all makes MC-6 for sure a unique and the most flexible digital audio
format converter in a 9.5“ case currently available in the market!
MC-6 Features
AES/EBU, AES/EBUid and S/P-DIF interfaces in one box.
Bidirectional format and sampling rate conversions
from 32.0 kHz to 192.0 kHz.
Converts standalone and bidirectionally with different sampling rates: X-SRC
Signal improvement through low-jitter clock recovery.
AES11, Grade 1, internal reference clock (<1ppm).
Word Clock output can be used as master clock reference.
Runs standalone without needing an external clock source.
4 channel SRC engine for bidirectional conversions.
Extremely flexible synchronization options.
Continuous signal supply in absence of the reference audio or clock signal.
Separate AES11 reference clock input.
Simultaneous conversions to all output formats.
Easy configurable.
User‘s settings will be stored after switching-off.
Rack space saving 1/2 19“ housing allowing for mounting two devices
in one rack unit.
Built-in international power supply.
The grey boxes contain supplementary
informationen for the corresponding
sections in the text columns. The content of
the individual box refers to the description
in the text column beside the box.
Boxes which contain a triangle with
an exclamation mark inside should
additional information which are of major
importance for the functional descriptions
in the text column.
be read carefully! These include
Register your MUTEC Product
for Warranty and Support!
your MUTEC product through our website
immediately after purchasing. This ensures
full warranty services over a period of two
years after purchasing the product. Moreover, for all registered products we offer to
our customers technical support. We also
will inform you about product updates and
new products which may of interest for you
(on voluntary base, of course).
Please regsiter your product at:
www.MUTEC-net.
> SERVICES, > MUTEC Product Registration
We ask you to be so kind to register
com
MC-6 Applications
Interconnection of consumer and professional digital audio devices.
AES3, AES3id and S/P-DIF format and sampling rate conversions.
Integration of non-synchronizable devices into digital studio
environments.
Clock recovery and digital audio signal regeneration.
Realtime bidirectional signal transfer between send/returns of digital
mixing consoles and effect processors.
Unidirectional or bidirectional interconnection of computer-based sound
cards with professional digital audio equipment.
Usable within small studio set-ups up to broadcast installations.
Reference Clocks and Master Clocks for Synchronization:
iCLOCK + iCLOCKdp
iCLOCK and iCLOCKdp are synchronizable, high-precision clock
generators which are designed to be the reference in digital audio and
video studios as well as broadcast and television stations. For further
details please visit:
www.iCLOCK-net.
MC-3
The MC-3 SMART CLOCK is an universal digital audio master clock
generator. The unit provides different high-stable and Ultra low-jitter
clock signals for synchronization of various digital audio devices.
MC-3.1
The MC-3.1 SMART CLOCK SD is an universal digital audio and SD video
sync master clock generator. The unit provides different high-stable
clock signals for simultaneous synchronization of digital audio and SD
video devices.
MC-3.2
The MC-3.2 SMART CLOCK HD is an universal digital audio and SD/HD
video sync master clock generator. The unit provides different highstable clock signals for simultaneous synchronization of digital audio
and SD/HD video devices.
MC-2
The MC-2 is a high-performance digital audio and reference clock signal
distribution amplifier and format converter for AES3/11 and AES3/11id
signals.
MC-7
The MC-7 is a flexible, high-performance 8-channel Word Clock distribu
tion amplifier and audio clock converter.
com
-
Cables for Digital Audio:
Optical cables in different lenghts from 0.5 m to 20 m for S/P-DIF and
TM
ADAT
transfers.
For all peripheral products please have a look on our website:
www.MUTEC-net.com
1 POWER
This red LED lights up when the unit is switched on with the rear panel
POWER switch.
2 MENU
The push-button selects one of the available function menus.
3 SELECT
Use this push-button to select a function within a specific function menu.
4 MODE + AUDIO IN
This function menu allows to adjust all available conversion modes (LED
line »MODE«) in combination with the corresponding digital audio formats
(LED line »AUDIO IN«) .
5 REFERENCE
This function menu allows to select the master clock reference for synchronization of the format conversion section as well as the SRCs.
6 STATUS
This menu indicates various signal statuses of the incoming master clock
reference signal and the digital audio signal. For details see page 25.
7 REF CLOCK IN
This menu indicates the clock rates of the incoming digital audio signal or
of the master clock reference signal. For details see page 25.
4
5
4
6
7
Refer to the OPERATIONS chapter for more
information.
MC-6 Rear Panel
1
2
1 AES3id OUT + WCLK OUT
The first output above transmits an AES3id digital audio stereo signal in
compliance with the AES3id–2001 standard. The second output below
transmits a low-jitter Word Clock signal based on the selected external reference clock or the internal clock basis. The impedances of both connectors
are 75 Ω (BNC connectors, female).
2 S/P-DIF OUT
These two S/P-DIF outputs, available as optical (»OP«) and coaxial (»CO«)
interfaces, transmit an optical S/P-DIF and an unbalanced electrical S/P-DIF
digital audio or blank frame signal in compliance with the IEC 60958 standard. The coaxial interface impedance is 75 Ω. (cinch connector), the optical
interface offers a Toshiba ToslinkTM connector, EIAJ standard.
3 AES3 OUT
This AES/EBU output transmits a transformer-balanced electrical AES3 or
AES11 signal in compliance with AES3 –1992 (R1997) standard. The output
impedance is 110 Ω (XLR connector, male).
3
4
6
5
7
8
For detailed specifications on all terminals,
refer to the »Pin Assignment of the
Connectors« and »Technical Data« in the
chapter »APPENDIX«.
4 AES3 IN
This AES/EBU input can receive a balanced digital AES3 or AES11 signal in
compliance with AES3 –1992 (R1997) or AES11–1997/2003. The input impedance is 110 Ω (XLR connector, female).
5 S/P-DIF IN
These two S/P-DIF inputs, available as optical (»OP«) and coaxial (»CO«)
interfaces, can receive an optical S/P-DIF and an unbalanced electrical S/P-DIF
digital audio or blank frame signal in compliance with the IEC 60958 standard. The coaxial interface impedance is 75 Ω. (cinch connector), the optical
interface offers a Toshiba ToslinkTM connector, EIAJ standard.
6 AES3id IN + WCLK IN
The first input above can receive an AES3id digital audio stereo signal in
compliance with the AES3id–2001 standard. The second input below can
receive a Word Clock so-called »Super Clock« (Word Clock x 256) signal. The
impedances of both connectors are 75 Ω (BNC connectors, female).
The termination of the WCLK input can be switched off. See page 28 for
details.
7 AES11 REF IN
This input receives a balanced digital AES11 blank frame signal in compliance with AES11–1997/2003 as master clock reference for the SRCs.
Alternatively, an AES3 digital audio signal in compliance with AES3 –1992
(R1997) or a S/PDIF digital audio signal aligned to IEC60958 can be input as
well. The input impedance is 110 Ω (XLR connector, female).
8 MAINS IN, Power Switch + Power Inlet
This is the main switch for switching the device on and off. Be sure to
make all connections (especially the supplied power cable) properly before
turning on the switch. Heed the SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS at the beginning of
this manual.
Connect the supplied power cable here. Make sure that the power switch
is turned off before connecting the power cable to this inlet and to the
power outlet. Line voltages within the range of 90…260V with a frequencies between 47...440Hz can be applied. The internal power supply will
automatically make all necessary adjustments.
The unit was packed carefully. Nevertheless we recommend to check the
content directly after opening the package:
1 x MC-6
1 x Power cable
4 x Rubber feet
1 x Manual
Placing the Device
The unit should be set up as closely as possible to the devices to which it
will be connected, so as to avoid excessive cable lengths. Use the 4 rubber
feets enclosed with the appliance and stick them symmetrically on the
bottom side of the unit to protect the enclosure and supporting surface
from being damaged.
The device can be mounted into a standard 19“ rack and will require 1 unit.
In this case, the rubber feet cannot be attached. Install the device so that
one unit of rack space is left free both above and below the device to allow
for sufficient ventilation! The mounting depth including the terminals is
160 mm/6.7“. Another 60 mm/2.4“ should be added for the required cables.
Additional slide-in rails on the rack inside are recommended for safe installation. This will also avoid long-term mechanical deformation of the housing.
be checked carefully additionally. If there
are any damages please refer to SAFETY
INSTRUCTIONS, Initial Operation, and
WARRANTY REGULATIONS.
Before installing the unit the section SAFETY
INSTRUCTIONS located at the beginning of
this manual should be read carefully.
Never expose the device and accessories to
rain, moisture, direct sunlight, or excessive
heat produced by radiators, heaters, or
spot lights! Sufficient air circulation in the
environment of the device must be ensured!
Before Powering Up
The condition of the packaging
material and the device should
Wiring the AES/EBU, AES/EBUid and S/P-DIF interfaces
AES/EBU
Connect the AES /EBU interfaces with the help of balanced electrical
cables equipped with XLR connectors on both ends. The specifications
stipulate a specific cable resistance of 110Ω (ask your retailer for a confirmation of this value when purchasing the cables).
AES/EBUid
Connect the AES /EBUid interfaces with the help of unbalanced electrical
BNC cables equipped with BNC connectors on both ends (same as used for
Word Clock). The specifications stipulate a specific cable resistance of 75Ω
(ask your retailer for a confirmation of this value when purchasing the
cables).
Typically, such cables are marked »RG-59U, RG59B/U«.
S/P-DIF
Connect the coaxial S/ P-DIF interfaces with help of unbalanced electrical
cables equipped with cinch connectors on both ends. The specifications
stipulate a specific cable resistance of 75 Ω. Ask your retailer for a confirma-
tion of this value when purchasing the cables.
Connect the optical S/P-DIF interface with the help of Toshiba TOSLINK™
compliant optical fiber cables. Here, you can use both plastic and glass
fiber-based cables. When using plastic fiber cables, lengths of 10 meters
should not be exceeded, so as to ensure the reliable transmission of signals.
Glass fiber cables can transfer data reliably even over greater distances.
Wiring the Word Clock Interfaces
Connect the Word Clock interfaces with the help of unbalanced elec trical
BNC cables equipped with BNC connectors on both ends. The specifica
tions stipulate a specific cable resistance of 75Ω (ask your retailer for a
confirmation of this value when purchasing the cables). Typically, such
cables are marked »RG-59U, RG59B/U«.
To allow for the synchronization of signals, the interfaces of all devices
involved must be properly connected to each other, so as to ensure a logical
signal flow. Always be sure to connect the Word Clock output of the MC-6
to the corresponding input of the device you wish to synchronize. Cable
lengths should be kept as short as possible to minimize signal losses and/or
interferences!
-
Cables for High Clock Rates
Especially when working with high
shielded electrical clock lines are imperative
to avoid increased radiation! Standard cables
are nor-mally useable for clock rates up to
50.0kHz. Special shielded cable material
should be used for transfer of higher clock
rates.
MUTEC offers optical cables of various
lengths that have been specifically tested for
the transmission of S/P-DIF signals. Ask your
local dealer for those cables!
AES3/-11 or S/P-DIF clock rates well
Cables for Word Clock
If a cable with a different resist-
deterioration of the signal quality can be
the result! In this case, the perfect synchro
nization of all devices involved could be
impaired.
It is imperative that the lengths of all cables
connected are largely the same, as this is
the only way to ensure that all devices will
be synchronized in phase (exception: cable
tolerances).
We recommend using high-grade cables with
a good shielding. A length of max. 10 meters
(approx. 30 feets) should not be exceeded!
Additionally, you should make sure that the Word Clock input to be connected to the MC-6’s output have a 75 Ω terminating resistor! Most Word
Clock inputs allow for enabling/disabling the termination with a so-called
»termination-switch«, which may be located on the outside or inside of the
device.
For devices which have no termination of the Word Clock input, e.g. RME
Hammerfall with Word Clock i/o, Alesis BRC or M-Audio ProFire Lightbridge, you can use an additional BNC-T piece to terminate the input. Plug
the T piece with its center connector into the input of the receiving device.
Then, connect the cable coming from the MC-6’s Word Clock output to one
of the lateral connectors, and the other connector of the BNC-T piece to a
75 Ω resistor forming the BNC termination.
Basically, you should avoid »looping through« Word Clock leads by means
of passive BNC-T pieces to preserve the signal quality, as level drops will be
the result. If there is no other way to wire your set-up, please make sure
that all Word Clock inputs (except for the last device in the chain) have
their terminations disabled! In a serial Word Clock chain only the last clock
input should have a termination! Never connect more than three devices in
series to one output!
The device is fully operated using the two toggle switches at the front
panel.
1 Switching the »MENU« key toggles between different basic function
menus.
2 Switching the »SELECT« key activtes individual functions within one
function menu.
2. SELECT
selects individual
selects individual
1. MENU
function menus.
MENU + SELECT operation
functions within
one function
menu.
and INSTALLATION chapters before first
powering-up!
We also recommend reading the CONTROL
ELEMENTS AND TERMINALS chapter for
information on how to connect the device!
Safety Instructions
For safety reasons, be sure to
read the SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Functions
Function Menus + Functions
Steps of Operation
1 First press on »MENU« or »SELECT« key enables the last selected function
within the last selected function menu. The corresponding LED is
beginning to flash.
2 Every press on »SELECT« button will select a new function within a menu.
The LED of the selected function flashs accordingly. After the LED stops
flashing, the funcltion is activated.
3 When the needed function is selected, do not press the switches again!
After a period of approximately 4 seconds the LED of the selected
function stops flashing.
The »STATUS« and »CLOCK
»MENU« and »SELECT« keys, because they only inform about different
conditions of incoming signals.
Menus
IN« areas are not accessible by using the
Shut-Down of Outputs
All digital audio outputs are shut-
down during function selection!
After a function is finally selected and the
corresponding LED lights constantly again,
the digital audio outputs are activated for
signal transfer.
These three function menus are offering access to the whole functionality
of your MC-6.
The »MODE« menu allows to select the general conversion option as uni- or
bidirectional conversion, with or without sampling rate conversion or the
X-SRC mode.
Within the »AUDIO IN« menu you select the digital audio formats for
conversion. This menu acts in dependency of the »MODE« menu. The
system makes sure that only useful combinations of conversion modes and
proper audio formats are accessable. Therefore both menus act together in
different combinations.
The »REFERENCE« menu provides all necessary synchronization options for
the corresponding conversions modes and the use of the internal sampling
rate converters (SRC). This menu also acts in dependency of the »MODE«
menu. It is only directly accessable when a SRC mode is selected under
»MODE«.
The menus »STATUS« and »REF CLOCK
operation status only. They are not accessable for adjustments.
IN« are for control of the MC-6‘s
After a function is finally selected and the
corresponding LED lights constantly again,
the digital audio outputs are activated for
signal transfer.
Shut-Down of Outputs
All digital audio outputs are shut-
down during function selection!
General Operation Procedure
The menu of your MC-6 is strictly organized aligned to general handling
procedures when inserting the MC-6 into your studio‘s data stream. Thus,
you can split up all of the necessary adjustments in three steps, which leads
to the following three questions for the basic operation of your MC-6:
1) What kind of conversion should be executed → MODE?
UNI-DIR = Unidirectional conversion, from one format to all others
BI-DIR = Bidirectional conversion, between two formats only
SRC = Above mentioned conversions with SRC
X-SRC = Crosswise conversion between two formats and clock rates
MODE
2) Which digital audio format(s) should be involved as source(s) → AUDIO
AES3 = AES3 between 25.0kHz and 200.0kHz
AES3id = AES3id between 25.0kHz and 200.0kHz
S/P-DIF op =
S/P-DIF co = S/P-DIF coaxial between 25.0kHz and 200.0kHz
AUDIO IN
3) Which clock source do I need for my prefered operation → REFERENCE?
WCLK
AES11
REFERENCE
S/P-DIF optical between 25.0kHz and 200.0kHz
AES3
AES3id
S/P-DIF op
S/P-DIF co
32.0
44.1
48.0
88.2
96.0
176.4
192.0
IN?
Continuous Clock Supply
When setting up your MC-6 for the
within the »REF CLOCK IN« menu the LED at
»44.1«, under »1« lights constantly. This is
due to the MC-6‘s continuous clock supply
function.
When no input signal is available, the MC-6
supplies at all digital audio outputs blank
frame signals, the Word Clock output carries
a corresponding Word Clock reference
signal. Thus, connected devices receive
immediately valid clock signals at their appropriate inputs after starting up the whole
studio set-up. The default clock rate of all
outputs is 44.1kHz.
When loosing the external clock reference
signal during operation, the MC-6‘s PLL synthesizer locks the internal reference clock
oscillator on the clock rate which is nearest
to the lost one to provide stable reference
signals to the connected devices.
first time, you will recognize that
12
32.0
96.0
44.1
176.4
48.0
192.0
88.2
REF CLOCK IN
After these general decisions are made, your MC-6 is configured for optimal
operation in your set-up! Due to the fact that the system monitors for
useful function combinations, maloperation is not possible.
So, let‘s have a look to the individual functions on the next pages.
Why a Clock Reference for
unidirectional Conversion
without SRC?
To allow for e.g. the AES3 format conversion without SRC into AES3id and S/P-DIF,
the MC-6 needs to derive a valid clock signal
from the incoming audio source. Therefore,
the corresponding reference option is activated in the »REFERENCE« menu automatically. This selection can not be changed.
UNI-DIRAES3
BI-DIR
X-SRC
MODE
This setting allows for unidirectional format conversion (see »MODE«,
»UNI-DIR«) of an AES3 source signal (see »AUDIO IN«, »AES3«) simultane-
ously to all available output formats. The sampling rate of the source signal
will be displayed in the first LED row, marked with »1«, of the »REF CLOCK
IN« menu. The AES3 signal will be re-clocked and transfered to the format-
same AES3 output. Thus, the original input signal is not lost and available
for further use!
Under »REFERENCE« the »AES3« option is selected automatically. Please see
the grey box on the left hand side for more information.
Within the »AUDIO IN« menu, you can select with the »SELECT« button the
other available digital audio inputs. The reference for the selected audio
format will be activated accordingly.
Further Setting Examples
UNI-DIRAES3
BI-DIR
X-SRC
MODE
Unidirectional format conversion from AES3id to AES3, S/P-DIF optical + coaxial, AES3id.
AES3id
S/P-DIF op SRC
S/P-DIF co
AUDIO IN
AES3id
S/P-DIF op SRC
S/P-DIF co
AUDIO IN
WCLK
AES11
REFERENCE
WCLKAES3
AES11
REFERENCE
AES3
AES3id
S/P-DIF op
S/P-DIF co
AES3id
S/P-DIF op
S/P-DIF co
32.0
44.1
48.0
88.2
32.0
44.1
48.0
88.2
96.0
176.4
192.0
96.0
176.4
192.0
UNI-DIRAES3
BI-DIR
X-SRC
MODE
Unidirectional format conversion from S/P-DIF optical to AES3, AES3id, S/P-DIF coaxial
+ optical.
UNI-DIRAES3
BI-DIR
X-SRC
MODE
Unidirectional format conversion from S/P-DIF coaxial to AES3, AES3id, S/P-DIF coaxial
+ optical.
Unidirectional Format and Sampling Rate Conversions
UNI-DIRAES3
BI-DIR
X-SRC
MODE
This setting allows for unidirectional format and sampling rate conversion
(see »MODE«, »UNI-DIR« + »SRC«) of an AES3 source signal (see »AUDIO IN«,
»AES3«) simultaneously to all available output formats. The sampling rate
of all outputs now depends on the clock rate of the reference clock signal,
which is selected in the »REFERENCE« menu. The above example shows
Word Clock (»WCLK«) selected as clock reference, which is the default set
ting. The following clock references are available for synchronization:
WCLK, 25.0kHz – 200.0kHz, SCLK 11.2896MHz + 12.288MHz
AES11, 25.0kHz – 200.0kHz (through separate input at the rear)
Inputs of AES3, AES3id, S/P-DIF op, S/P-DIF co, each 25.0kHz – 200.0kHz
32.0kHz –192.0kHz, internal clock oscillator
To activate a clock source enter the »REFERENCE« menu and press the »SE
LECT« button repeatedly. When the external reference clock signal is locked
by the internal PLL circuit, the first blue LED »LOCK« in the »STATUS« menu
lights constantly. The clock rate of the selected clock source is then display
ed in the first LED row, marked with »1«, of the »REF CLOCK IN« menu.
Further Setting Examples
UNI-DIRAES3
BI-DIR
X-SRC
MODE
Unidirectional format and sampling rate conversion from AES3id to AES3, AES3id, S/PDIF coaxial + optical, referenced by an externally applied AES11 clock signal.
UNI-DIRAES3
BI-DIR
X-SRC
MODE
Unidirectional format and sampling rate conversion from S/P-DIF optical to AES3,
AES3id, S/P-DIF coaxial + optical, referenced by an externally applied AES3 signal.
AES3id
S/P-DIF op SRC
S/P-DIF co
AUDIO IN
AES3id
S/P-DIF op SRC
S/P-DIF co
AUDIO IN
AES3id
S/P-DIF op SRC
S/P-DIF co
AUDIO IN
WCLKAES3
AES11
REFERENCE
External Clock
References
WCLKAES3
AES11
REFERENCE
WCLKAES3
AES11
REFERENCE
AES3id
S/P-DIF op
S/P-DIF co
AES3id
S/P-DIF op
S/P-DIF co
AES3id
S/P-DIF op
S/P-DIF co
32.0
96.0
44.1
176.4
48.0
192.0
88.2
Internal
Clock
Reference
32.0
96.0
44.1
176.4
48.0
192.0
88.2
32.0
96.0
44.1
176.4
48.0
192.0
88.2
-
-
-
Locking so-called
»Super Clocks«
called »Super Clock« (SCLK) reference
signals. These clock signals are used
preferably for older digidesign ProTools™
MX systems. Specified are only two clock
rates, 11.2896MHz + 12.288MHz which are
the x256 multiple of the Word Clock rates
44.1kHz and 48.0kHz.
When locking to one of these Super Clocks,
the rate will be inverted displayed in the
»REF CLOCK IN« menu. Due to this, the LED
in front of the corresponding base clock
rate, that means Word Clock rate, does not
light while all other LEDs light (see examples below).
Super Clock of
44.1kHz Word
Clock
Your MC-6 is able to lock to so-
12
32.0
96.0
44.1
176.4
48.0
192.0
88.2
REF CLOCK IN
12
32.0
44.1
176.4
48.0
192.0
88.2
REF CLOCK IN
Super Clock of
48.0kHz Word
Clock
96.0
UNI-DIRAES3
BI-DIR
X-SRC
MODE
Unidirectional format and sampling rate conversion from S/P-DIF coaxial to AES3,
AES3id, S/P-DIF coaxial + optical, referenced by the internal clock base with 192.0kHz.
This is a special function of your MC-6! It allows e.g. to receive an AES3
signal and an AES3id signal simultaneously. The AES3 input signal is converted to AES3id and the AES3id input signal is converted to AES3. The other
digital audio outputs are shut down.
In this mode, the MC-6 is able to work simultaneously with two different
sampling rates. The status of the two input signals is displayed in the
»STATUS« and »REF CLOCK
IN« menus. To distinguish between the two
input signal status, you can see that generally the »LOCK« and »AUDIO«
conditions of the first audio input format, seen from above of the LED row
»AUDIO IN«, are displayed using the first »LOCK« and first »AUDIO« LED
of the »STATUS« LED row. The status of the second audio input format is
displayed accordingly with the second LEDs of this menu.
To make this more clear, the MC-6 front view below shows the assignment
of the LEDs in »STATUS« and »REF COCK
IN« with their numbering aligned
their affiliation to the selected two digital audio formats, »AES3« (marked
as »1«) and »AES3id« (marked as »2«).
1
AES3
2
AES3id
S/P-DIF op
S/P-DIF co
AUDIO IN
WCLKAES3
AES11
REFERENCE
AES3id
S/P-DIF op
S/P-DIF co
32.0
44.1
48.0
88.2
96.0
176.4
192.0
1
LOCK
2
LOCK
AUDIO
2
AUDIO
1
1
112
1
STATUSREF CLOCK IN
2
32.0
2
44.1
48.0
2
88.2
96.0
176.4
192.0
Further Setting Examples
UNI-DIRAES3
BI-DIR
AES3id
S/P-DIF op SRC
X-SRC
MODE
Bidirectional format conversion between AES3 and S/P-DIF optical.
S/P-DIF co
AUDIO IN
UNI-DIRAES3
BI-DIR
AES3id
S/P-DIF op SRC
X-SRC
MODE
Bidirectional format conversion between AES3id and S/P-DIF coaxial.
S/P-DIF co
AUDIO IN
UNI-DIRAES3
BI-DIR
AES3id
S/P-DIF op SRC
X-SRC
MODE
Bidirectional format conversion between S/P-DIF optical and S/P-DIF coaxial.
This setting allows to receive an AES3 signal and an AES3id signal simultaneously. The bidirectional format conversion procedure is the same as
described before, but you have now to select in the »REFERENCE« menu
additionally a clock reference for the sampling rate conversion process,
whose clock rate is then displayed under »REF CLOCK IN«. The example
above shows Word Clock (WCLK) selected as clock reference.
The following clock references are available for synchronization:
WCLK, 25.0kHz – 200.0kHz, SCLK
AES11, 25.0kHz – 200.0kHz (through separate input at the rear)
Inputs of AES3, AES3id, S/P-DIF op, S/P-DIF co, each 25.0kHz – 200.0kHz
32.0kHz –192.0kHz, internal clock oscillator
To activate a clock source enter the »REFERENCE« menu and press the »SE
LECT« button repeatedly. When the external reference clock signal is locked
by the internal PLL circuit, the first blue LED »LOCK« in the »STATUS« menu
lights constantly. The clock rate of the selected clock source is then displayed in the first LED row, marked with »1«, of the »REF CLOCK IN« menu.
Further Setting Examples
AES3id
S/P-DIF op SRC
S/P-DIF co
AUDIO IN
WCLKAES3
AES11
REFERENCE
AES3id
S/P-DIF op
S/P-DIF co
11.2896MHz + 12.288MHz
32.0
44.1
48.0
88.2
96.0
176.4
192.0
-
UNI-DIRAES3
BI-DIR
X-SRC
MODE
Bidirectional format and sampling rate conversion between AES3 and S/P-DIF optical,
referenced by an externally applied AES11 clock signal.
UNI-DIRAES3
BI-DIR
X-SRC
MODE
Bidirectional format and sampling rate conversion between AES3id and S/P-DIF optical,
referenced by an externally applied AES3 digital audio signal.
UNI-DIRAES3
BI-DIR
X-SRC
MODE
Bidirectional format and sampling rate conversion between S/P-DIF optical and S/P-DIF
coaxial, referenced by the internal clock base 44.1kHz.
This setting is a very special and of course unique function of your MC-6!
The function allows to convert two digital audio signals at the same time,
whereas both conversion streams may consist of different sampling rates.
On this occasion, the MC-6 extracts the clock out of the two incoming digital
audio signals and uses these as clock references to synchronize the SRCs in
front of each of the format-same outputs. This is especially useful when
interconnecting two unsynchronized digital audio devices, each running on
its own internal clock base.
A standard application is the interconnection of a digital mixing desk and a
digital multichannel effects processor, as shown in the sketch below.
MC-6: X-SRC Mode
1. PLL:
Clock Extraction
44.1kHz
Clock
44.1kHz
2. SRC:
Clock Conversion
44.1kHz ← 48.0kHz
AES3id
S/P-DIF op SRC
S/P-DIF co
AUDIO IN
Clock Conversion
44.1kHz → 48.0kHz
Clock
48.0kHz
Clock Extraction
48.0kHz
REFERENCE
1. SRC:
2. PLL:
WCLKAES3
AES11
AES3id
S/P-DIF op
S/P-DIF co
Output:
AES3
48.0kHz
Input:
AES3
48.0kHz
32.0
96.0
44.1
176.4
48.0
192.0
88.2
Digital Mixing Desk
48.0kHz
Clock References for the
X-SRC Modes
Using the X-SRC mode, the MC-6 extracts
the needed clock rates out of the incoming
digital audio signals. Thereby, the system
does not need and does not accept any
additional external applied clock reference
signals.
This setting allows to receive an AES3 signal and an AES3id simultaneously.
The AES3 input signal is converted to AES3id and the AES3id signal is converted to the AES3. The clock rate of the incoming AES3 signal is extracted
and supplied as clock reference to the first SRC, which feeds the AES3 output. The clock rate of the incoming AES3id signal is extracted and supplied
as clock reference to the second SRC, which feeds the AES3id output.
That means, the AES3 input is predefined as clock source for the first SRC,
the AES3 output. The AES3id input is predefined as clock source for the
second SRC, the AES3id output. There are no other adjustments for clock
sources possible within the X-SRC mode.
When the incoming digital audio signals can be locked as clock references,
the two blue LEDs »LOCK« in the »STATUS« menu will light constantly. The
clock rate of the clock sources are displayed in the »REF CLOCK IN« menu
under »1« and »2«. The identifier »1« generally indicates the sampling rate
of the first digital audio format selected in the »AUDIO IN« menu, seen
from above of the LED row. The identifier »2« generally indicates the sampling rate of the second digital audio format, displayed below the first one.
X-SRC Mode between S/P-DIF optical and S/P-DIF coaxial.
AES3id
S/P-DIF op SRC
S/P-DIF co
AUDIO IN
AES3id
S/P-DIF op SRC
S/P-DIF co
AUDIO IN
WCLKAES3
AES11
REFERENCE
WCLKAES3
AES11
REFERENCE
AES3id
S/P-DIF op
S/P-DIF co
AES3id
S/P-DIF op
S/P-DIF co
32.0
44.1
48.0
88.2
32.0
44.1
48.0
88.2
96.0
176.4
192.0
96.0
176.4
192.0
STATUS
This area displays different system conditions of your MC-6. There is no
access for changing settings.
»LOCK« (2x)
Doing unidirectional format and sampling rate conversions, the first
»LOCK« LED above lights when the internal PLL circuit has detected
the incoming digital audio or clock reference signal as valid. During
bidirectional format conversions or the different X-SRC modes, both
»LOCK« LEDs light, when the incoming digital audio signals are valid. In
that case, the first LED from above in the LED row indicates the lock status
of the first selected digital audio format, the second LED the status of the
secondly selected digital audio format.
If the digital audio or reference clock signal is unstable, the »LOCK« LEDs
do not light, the whole audio conversion process will be stopped and the
digital audio outputs do not transmit any signals.
If the internal oscillator is selected as reference clock, the first »LOCK« LED
from above will light correspondingly.
»AUDIO« (2x)
These two LEDs indictae if the ncoming digital audio signal is valid aligned
to the processable digital audio standards (see APPENDIX). Using one of the
unidirectional conversion modes, the first »AUDIO« LED, seen from above
of the LED row, indicates the audio status of the digital audio reference
signal. Using bidirectional modes or one of the X-SRC modes, assigned to
the corresponding digital audio formats, selected within the »AUDIO IN«
mode.
REF CLOCK IN
»1« + »2«
This area displays the incoming sampling and reference clock rates for the
different operation modes of your MC-6.
Undirectional Format Conversion:
The sampling rate of the digital audio signal, which is selected as reference,
will be displayed under LED row »1«. The LEDs of row »2« do not light.
Undirectional Format and Sampling Rate Conversion:
The clock rate of the selected reference clock signal will be displayed under
LED row »1«. The LEDs of row »2« do not light.
Bidirectional Format Conversion:
The sampling rate of the digital audio format, selected as first in the
»AUDIO IN« menu, will be displayed with LED row »1«. The sampling rate of
the secondly selected digital audio format is displayed with LED row »2«.
Bidirectional Format and Sampling Rate Conversion:
The clock rate of the selected reference clock signal will be displayed under
LED row »1«. The LEDs of row »2« do not light.
X-SRC Mode:
The sampling rate of the digital audio format, selected as first in the
»AUDIO IN« menu, will be displayed with LED row »1«. The sampling rate of
the second digital audio format is displayed with LED row »2«.
The following basis reference clock rates are supported and will be
analyzed:
These indications are only available if
the internal PLL circuit is locked stably
to the external reference signal and the
corresponding blue LOCK LED lights
permanently.
Switching-off the Termination of the Word Clock Input
CAUTION! Disconnect the unit from the mains before opening!
Remount the aluminium cover thoroughly before you attempt to operate
the unit!
Word Clock
Input
S/P-DIF
Inputs
When MC-6 is shipped, the BNC-based Word Clock input connector is
terminated internally with 75 Ω. Therefore, one jumper is put on two pins
- Position 1 - of the 3-pin socket JP1.
Jumper:
JP2
Termination
3-pin socket
JP2
Word Clock Termination
Technical Data
12
Free Pin:
Jumper Position 1
= Termination
When moving the jumper from position 1 to position 2, the input termination will be switched-off. Therefore, the MC-6 must be connected in a
chain, in which a device with terminated input follows. Otherwise you need
to use a BNC-T piece in combination with a 75 Ω BNC resistor for terminat-
ing the MC-6’s input.
JP2
12
Jumper Position 2
= no Terminaltion
For additional information regarding this issue, please refer to page 11.
MC-6
Mainboard
PCB
AES3 AUDIO INPUT
Interface 1 x XLR female, transformer balanced, input impedance 110 Ω, 200 mV – 7.0 V
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