RME AVB Tool AVBTool_E_online.pdf

AVB Tool

AVB / MADI Converter

Half-rack MADI-AVB Converter with
outstanding Analog Connectivity

User´s Guide

RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

Table of Contents

1. Safety Precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê1

2. Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê2

2.1. About This Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê2

2.2. Firmware Update . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê2

2.3. Controlling the device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê4

2.3.1. Sections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê4

2.3.2. Tabs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê5

2.4. Status Indicator Color Chart. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê5

3. Hardware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê6

3.1. Hardware Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê7

3.2. Package Contents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê7

3.3. Power On . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê7

3.4. Standby Switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê7

3.5. Standby Indicator. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê9

3.6. Analog Input Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê10

3.6.1. Analog Input Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê10

3.7. Frequency and Impulse Response . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê11

3.8. Analog input LEDs with Integrated Metering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê11

3.9. Meter Backlight Color and Intensity Reference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê11

3.10. Control Section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê13

3.11. Headphone Output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê14

3.11.1. Analog Output Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê14

3.12. Power supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê15

3.13. MADI Coaxial and SFP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê15

3.14. Network Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê16

3.15. Word Clock. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê17

3.16. USB 2.0 Type B Jack. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê18

3.17. Analog Line Level Outputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê19

3.18. Security Lock Slot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê19

4. Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê20

5. AVB Connectivity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê21

5.1. Identifying a Device Remotely . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê21

5.2. Changing the Device Name . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê22

5.3. AVB Stream Size and Format. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê22

5.4. AVB Network Latency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê22

5.4.1. Adjusting the network latency. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê23

6. Quick Start (MADI) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê24

7. Warranty and Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê25

7.1. Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê25

7.2. Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê25

7.3. Support Contacts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê26

8. STATE Section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê27

8.1. Presets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê27

8.1.1. Saving Presets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê27

8.1.2. Loading Presets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê28

8.1.3. Loading Factory Default Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê28

8.2. Device Lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê28

8.2.1. Locking the Device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê29

8.2.2. Unlocking the Device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê29

8.3. Front Panel Illumination . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê30

8.3.1. Dark Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê30

8.3.2. Changing the Meters to Peak or RMS Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê30

8.3.3. Persistent Clipping Notifications and Peak Hold . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê31

8.3.4. Metering of Digital Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê32

8.4. Remote Control Overview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê32

8.4.1. Finding the Device on a Network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê33

8.4.2. Web Remote . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê34

8.5. Device Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê36

9. INPUT Section. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê37

9.1. Analog Inputs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê37

9.1.1. Analog Input User Interfaces. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê38

9.1.2. Adjusting the Input Gain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê38

9.1.3. Enabling Phantom Power (P48) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê39

9.1.4. Switching Between XLR and TRS Inputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê39

9.1.5. Activating High Impedance (Hi-Z) on TRS Inputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê40

9.1.6. Inverting the Phase of an Analog Input Signal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê41

9.1.7. Gain Groups. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê42

9.1.8. Creating a Gain Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê43

9.1.9. Saving a Gain Group. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê43

9.1.10. Monitor Analog Inputs at Phones Output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê44

9.2. MADI Input . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê44

9.2.1. MADI at High Sample Rates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê45

9.2.2. Connecting Two Identical MADI Signals for Redundancy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê45

9.3. AVB Input Streams . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê46

9.3.1. Change AVB Input Stream Size. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê46

10. OUTPUT Section. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê48

10.1. Routing Signals to the Outputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê48

10.2. Phones Output. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê49

10.2.1. Adjusting the Headphone Volume . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê49

10.2.2. Muting the Phones Output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê50

10.2.3. Using Phones Out as a Balanced Line Output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê50

10.2.4. Line Level Outputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê50

10.2.5. Changing Analog Output Volume . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê50

10.3. MADI Outputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê51

10.3.1. Setting the Output Channel Format and Frame Pattern . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê51

10.3.2. MADI Daisy Chains. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê52

10.3.3. MADI Port Mirroring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê52

10.4. AVB Output Streams. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê52

10.4.1. Change AVB Output Stream Size and Format. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê53

11. CLOCK Section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê54

11.1. Clock status . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê54

11.2. Master Clock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê54

11.2.1. Selecting a Master Clock. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê54

11.3. Sample Rates Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê55

11.3.1. Slave Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê55

11.3.2. Number of Channels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê56

11.3.3. Selecting a Sample Rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê57

11.3.4. Effects of Sample Rate Changes on Existing Routing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê57

11.4. Set Word Clock Output to Single Speed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê58

12. Annex. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê59

Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê60

CE Compliance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê61

FCC Compliance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê61

Note on Disposal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ê61

1. Safety Precautions

DO NOT OPEN DEVICE - RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

The unit has non-isolated live parts inside. No user serviceable parts inside. Refer
service to qualified service personnel.

General Safety Information

Read read the following safety information thoroughly and keep it in a safe place
for later reference.

KEEP AWAY FROM WATER AND MOISTURE

Prevent moisture and water from entering the device. Never leave objects
containing liquid on top or near the device. Do not use this product near water, i. e.
swimming pool, bathtub or wet basement. Danger of condensation inside - do not
turn on before the device has reached room temperature.

RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

 WARNING

 CAUTION

ENSURE PROPER VENTILATION

Do not cover the vents on the side of the unit. Ensure proper ventilation to avoid
overheating.

Operation of the device is limited to the description in this manual.

NOTICE

Read the User Manual

Read the manual completely. It includes all information necessary to use and
operate this device.

1 | 1. Safety Precautions

RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

2. Introduction

Thank you for purchasing the AVB Tool.

The AVB Tool combines four instrument, line and microphone inputs, two line outputs, and a headphone
output with MADI and AVB routing capabilities. Among its outstanding features: digital no-compromise
studio quality converters, remote control, and a user interface optimized for rapid configuration and
control.

All device states and controls can be operated directly on the front panel with an encoder and four
buttons that change their function depending on selected feature. This allows to rapidly create gain
groups, switch phantom power and route signals to the headphone.

The RME AVB Core has implemented the IEEE standards for audio streaming, discovery and control
meticulously, allowing the devices to be discovered and fully controlled by any AVB controller and
making vendor-specific control protocols a thing of the past. Any signal reaching the 12Mic can be
routed and streamed over deterministic networks with fixed latency and guaranteed bandwidth - no
switch configuration required!

The coaxial MADI port and a slot for a second, independent or redundant optical MADI port (SFP module)
can be used for daisy chaining, merging and converting MADI signals with lowest latencies.

A web frontend offers convenient access to the device controls and its integrated routing matrix. The
integrated matrix allows free routing between analog inputs and headphone outputs, as well as all
channels of both MADI ports, the AVB streams, and the analog line outputs.

2.1. About This Manual

This printed document was created for firmware 1.0.5b on 2020-04-29. For an updated version, please
check https://www.rme-audio.com.

The following manual provides a detailed explanation of features and their proper use. Please read the
safety instructions carefully.

Features described in this manual may change when the device firmware is updated. It is



Although the contents of this manual have been thoroughly checked for errors, RME cannot guarantee
that it is correct throughout. RME does not accept responsibility for any misleading or incorrect
information within this guide. RME reserves the right to change specifications at any time without notice.

therefore recommended to refer to the latest version of the manual available online.

2.2. Firmware Update

New and improved features for this device, as well as bug fixes, are published on the RME website in the
download section as a firmware update. The update is provided as a compressed file with a .swu
extension and can be uploaded via web remote over USB or network.

To update the AVB Tool:

1. Connect the device by USB or network cable and open the Web Remote.

See: Section 8.4.1, “Finding the Device on a Network”

2. Download the current firmware from the RME website.

2. Introduction | 2

RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

3. Unpack the compressed file.

4.

Open the  Settings in the Web Remote.

5. Within the Firmware Update section, press the Select .swu Firmware File Êbutton and locate the
unpacked file.

6. Press Start Firmware Update .



The unit retains all settings, including presets, when the firmware is upgraded.

3 | 2.2. Firmware Update

RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

2.3. Controlling the device

The AVB Tool can be controlled directly at the unit. For this purpose, a display, buttons, and an encoder
provide access to all features. From the main screen, the encoder knob is used to access the main menu.
It also controls the gain of the headphone output if turned, and puts the device into standby mode if
pushed for several seconds.

2.3.1. Sections

The main menu separates all controls into one of four sections:

• STATE for general settings

• CLOCK for digital clock related settings

• INPUT for audio input related settings

• OUTPUT for audio output related settings and routing

To access the INPUT section:

1. Push the encoder to open the menu

2.3. Controlling the device | 4

RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

2. Rotate the encoder to highlight the "INPUT" section

3. Push the encoder to open the "INPUT" section.

2.3.2. Tabs

The STATE, INPUT and OUTPUT sections are further divided into tabs,
which are shown when the section is opened. Upon opening one of these
sections, a cursor is shown to navigate between tabs and settings.

To leave a tab or the section, use the return key .

Tabs can generate a warning whenever a configured signal path cannot be established. This is then
indicated on the main screen as a red highlight of the corresponding section and in the main menu.
Warnings occur for example when a clock reference signal does not match the internal sample rate. They
also cause the standby LED to flash in white and red.

Tabs in the main menu can also show a 'caution notification', for example if loaded preset was not
saved. To see these notifications, open the main menu by pushing the encoder.

2.4. Status Indicator Color Chart

Notifications on this device have been optimized for different screen sizes. They are unified across the
device display and the web remote and include a color bar that indicates the current state at a glance.

The following table shows the possible status indicator colors for reference.

Status Color Description

Warning red Requires a configuration change or matching

external signal.

Notice yellow There is a potential issue.

Notice (in progress) yellow with dots There is a temporary issue that should resolve

automatically.

No Routing light green In output section: Output is sending an empty

signal.

Issues with Input light green On standby screen in output section: Output is

working, but issues with input.

Good green Everything is working as expected.

Inactive grey Feature is not monitored or disabled.

5 | 2.4. Status Indicator Color Chart

3. Hardware

RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

Section 3.6, “Analog Input Connectors”

Section 3.10, “Control Section”

Section 3.11, “Headphone Output”

Section 3.4, “Standby Switch”

Section 3.16, “USB 2.0 Type B Jack”

Section 3.18, “Security Lock Slot”

Section 3.15, “Word Clock”

Section 3.13, “MADI Coaxial and SFP”

Section 3.14, “Network Connection”

Section 3.17, “Analog Line Level Outputs”

Section 3.12, “Power supply”

3. Hardware | 6

RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

3.1. Hardware Specifications

RME AVB Tool

EAN 42 6012336 330 7

Dimensions 215 x 44 x 130 mm (8.5 x 1.7 x 5.1 inches)

Weight 1.0 kg (2.2 lbs)

Package 347 x 216 x 83 mm (13.7 x 8.5 x 3.3 inches)

Conformity CE, FCC, WEEE, RoHS

Power supply external 2 A 100-240 V AC

Power consumption typ. 13W, standby 0.5W

3.2. Package Contents

The package of the AVB Tool contains the following items:

• AVB Tool

• external power supply

• one power cord

• one Cat5e network cable

• printed manual



If any item is missing from a factory-sealed package, please contact support immediately.

3.3. Power On

The AVB Tool has a standby switch at the front.

Perform the following steps to power on the AVB Tool:

1. Ensure that the power inlet is properly connected to a power source.

2. The power indicator will light up in red (Standby) or white (On). This depends on the state of the
device before it was disconnected from a power source.

3. If the device is in standby mode, hold the encoder for two seconds to boot the device.

The AVB Tool features a dark mode which deactivates some or all lights of the front panel.



This can be used to let the device appear powered off when it is in fact powered on. A short
push on the encoder or any button deactivates this mode temporarily.

3.4. Standby Switch

The front panel encoder acts as a standby switch. While in standby mode, the device is completely
powered down except for a red LED. No signals are processed or passed on.

7 | 3.1. Hardware Specifications

RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

Possible actions:

• When the device is in standby mode, pushing the encoder for two seconds will boot the device.

• When the device is powered on, push and hold the encoder for several seconds in order to power
down the device. A red progress bar is shown while the encoder is pushed.

3.4. Standby Switch | 8

RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

3.5. Standby Indicator

The following illumination patterns are possible:

No illumination

• There is no power at the DC input.

• Dark mode has been activated.

Permanent red illumination

• The device is powered off but is receiving power at either one of the power inlets.

Permanent white illumination

• The device is powered on and all systems are working without warning.

Alternating red/white illumination

• Something is not working properly. This is triggered when one of the four display
sections: STATE, INPUT, OUTPUT, or CLOCK signals a warning.

9 | 3.5. Standby Indicator

RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

3.6. Analog Input Connectors

XLR/TRS combo jacks 1-4

On the front of the device, four combined XLR/TRS inputs labeled "1" to "4" can be used for microphone,
line and instrument signals. Phantom power (48 V) for microphones can be activated on each XLR input,
high impedance ("Hi-Z") can be activated when using unbalanced TS connectors. Both XLR and TRS
jacks accept balanced signals and maintain full symmetry internally all the way to the A/D converter.
Phantom power is not applied at the TRS inputs.

3.6.1. Analog Input Specifications

XLR In 1-4

• Input: XLR, electronically balanced

• Input impedance: 3.4 kOhm

• Gain range: 75 dB, 1 dB steps

• Resolution AD: 24 bit

• Frequency response @ 44.1 kHz, -0.1 dB: 8 Hz – 20.8 kHz

• Frequency response @ 96 kHz, -0.5 dB: 4 Hz – 29.2

• Frequency response @ 192 kHz, -1 dB: 3 Hz – 43.7

[1]

[1]

• THD @ 30 dB gain: < -110 dB, < 0.00032 %

• THD+N @ 30 dB gain: < -104 dB, < 0.00063 %

• Channel separation: > 110 dB

• Signal to Noise ratio (SNR): 118 dB RMS unweighted, 121 dBA

• Maximum input level, Gain 0 dB: +18 dBu

• Maximum input level, Gain 75 dB: -57 dBu

[1]

optimized impulse response filter, see Section 3.7, “Frequency and Impulse Response”

3.6. Analog Input Connectors | 10

RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

TRS In 1-4

As above, but:

• TRS jack, balanced

• Gain range: 42 dB, 1 dB steps

• Maximum input level, Gain 8 dB: +21 dBu

• Maximum input level, Gain 50 dB: -21 dBu

• Switchable high impedance (unbalanced TS): 1 MOhm

3.7. Frequency and Impulse Response

The AD converters of the AVB Tool are optimized for extremely low latencies (Short Delay IIR filters). At
single speed, the conversion prioritizes frequency response to ensure linear conversion across the entire
frequency band.

At double and quad speed (88.2 kHz and higher), the conversion has been optimized to deliver a near­perfect impulse response. This is achieved by allowing a lower cutoff frequency and a slower roll-off of
the anti-aliasing filter. It shifts from around 44 kHz to 25 kHz at 96 kHz (84 kHz to 32 kHz at 192 kHz)
and attenuates higher signals less steeply. The resulting impulse response shows significantly less
ringing artifacts than steep filters at at a higher cutoff frequency. Since even the lower cutoff frequencies
are located well above the audible range, the advantage of the improved impulse response outweighs the
benefit of a higher cutoff frequency.

If the AVB Tool is used for scientific research (ultrasonic signals) with measurement



microphones that maintain a linear frequency response above 25 kHz, please contact your
support for a solution.

3.8. Analog input LEDs with Integrated Metering

Each analog input is accompanied by an LED. Shades of green, yellow, and
red represent the current level for each channel. Additionally, each LED shows
the active state of phantom power (yellow), active TRS inputs (white), and
active High-Z impedance on TRS inputs (blue) while pressing the
corresponding quick access buttons.

3.9. Meter Backlight Color and Intensity Reference

The following table describes the signal level represented by the backlight color. Each value corresponds
to full scale, which is equivalent to the reference level of the corresponding input.

Color Color name dBFS

Green

-54 (barely visible in low light)

-40 (barely visible in daylight)

-20 (bright green)

Yellow -5 (strong yellow)

Orange -4

11 | 3.7. Frequency and Impulse Response

RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

Color Color name dBFS

Red -1

Red flashing fast 0 (at least three consecutive samples)

Red flashing slow input muted

3.9. Meter Backlight Color and Intensity Reference | 12

3.10. Control Section

Section 3.8, “Analog input LEDs with Integrated Metering”

Section 9.1.1, “Analog Input User Interfaces”

Display buttons

Toggle P48/Hi-Z/TRS

Section 3.10, “Control Section”

Phones output with routing

Input tab with warning

RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

Section 3.4, “Standby Switch”, Encoder

The AVB Tool can be configured completely at the device. To do so, the a TFT display shows a menu.
The adjacent encoder knob and buttons are used to navigate and change settings. In addition, each input
channel has a dedicated button to access its controls.

The encoder can be pushed in order to activate an item,

and rotated left and right in order to select an item.

If the device is powered on but the display shows no content, dark mode may be active.



Rotate the encoder to temporarily bypass this mode and show the display.

13 | 3.10. Control Section

RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

3.11. Headphone Output

The AVB Tool features a stereo headphone output, 1/4" (6.3mm) TRS on the front panel. It can also
function as a dual mono unbalanced output (13 dBu) and as a mono balanced line level output (19 dBu).
Any digital or analog input signal can be monitored.

3.11.1. Analog Output Specifications

Phones 1/2:

• Resolution: 24 Bit

• Noise (DR): 115 dB RMS unweighted, 118 dBA

• Frequency response @ 44.1 kHz, -0.5 dB: 9 Hz – 22 kHz

• Frequency response @ 96 kHz, -0.5 dB: 9 Hz – 45 kHz

• Frequency response @ 192 kHz, -1 dB: 8 Hz - 75 kHz

• THD+N: < -100 dB, < 0.001 %

• Channel separation: > 110 dB

• Output: 6.3 mm TRS stereo (unbalanced) or mono (balanced) jack

• Maximum output level at 0 dBFS: +13 dBu (unbalanced), +19 dBu (balanced)

Analog Out 3/4:

• Output: two 6.3 mm TRS mono (balanced) jacks

• Maximum output level at 0 dBFS: +4 dBu or +19 dBu

3.11. Headphone Output | 14

RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

3.12. Power supply

The AVB Tool comes with an external 12 V 2.0 A power supply with a locking connector (5.5 mm positive
polarity) and detachable power cord (C7).

Insert the connector fully with the lock tabs facing sideways, then gently turn 30 degrees clockwise to
secure the connector in place. Reverse this process to unlock and unplug the connector.



Do not push and turn the connector at the same time as this may damage the DC socket.

3.13. MADI Coaxial and SFP

The rear of the AVB Tool features coaxial and SFP MADI (AES10-2003) I/O.

Each input receives up to 64 audio channels. Auto Input (see Section 9.2.2, “Connecting Two Identical
MADI Signals for Redundancy”) can be activated to treat both inputs as one.

The coaxial BNC connector accepts coaxial cables with 75 Ω impedance.

The "small form-factor pluggable" connector (SFP) accepts 125 MBit/s transceivers with LC connectors
and multi-mode (MM) and single-mode (SM) cable support. These must be purchased separately (see
Section 4, “Accessories”).

An SFP module has indicators to distinguish transmitter (▼) and receiver (▲). It can be inserted and
removed while the device is powered on (hot plugging). Any plugged in connector must be removed
before unlocking the SFP. Unlock and remove by pulling its integrated wire latch outward.

The wire latch of the SFP module is color coded. Black stands for the most common
multimode module, blue stands for single mode which allows longer distance



On the device, the characteristics and state of the signal at either input can be inspected in the INPUT
section.

The presence or loss of a signal at either port is indicated on the standby screen and main menu if

• the input port is selected as clock master, or

15 | 3.12. Power supply

transmissions. It is possible, but not reliable to connect single mode transceivers with
multi mode transceivers. Avoid this by always confirming that connected devices match
the specification of the fiber optic cable.

RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

• its audio channels are routed in the OUTPUT section.

3.14. Network Connection

On the rear of the AVB Tool, a ruggetized RJ45 connector labeled NETWORK provides ethernet
connectivity. The supported link speed is 1 Gb/s for AVB.

A green LED (left) signals network traffic (blinking). A yellow LED (right) signals a successful link.

Both straight and crossover cables can be used (Auto MDI-X). Cable lengths of up to 100m are supported
when using Cat 5e or higher classification.

3.14. Network Connection | 16

RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

The network port is used to send and receive:

• up to eight AVB audio streams when connected to AVB switches and endpoints,

• remote status/control with AVDECC, and

• remote status/control with HTTP over IP routed networks.

The current link state is also shown on the display of the AVB Tool.

A network port icon in the menu reveal the following states:

Icon Description

No link - cable not connected

Negotiating link with other endpoint

Link with speed of 100 MBit/s (not
supported for audio streams)

Successful link with speed of 1 GBit/s

3.15. Word Clock

Word clock can be sent and received via 75 Ω coaxial cabling at the corresponding BNC connectors. The
cable length should not exceed 100 m (330 ft).

The input is terminated with 75 Ω internally. To pass on the word clock to other devices,



The state of an incoming word clock signal can be accessed
in the CLOCK section.

use the word clock output. Do not connect a T-adapter to the word clock input.

Possible States:

• A green indicator shows that the signal is currently in sync with the chosen clock master.

• An orange indicator means that a word clock is received but is not in sync.

• A red indicator means that word clock is chosen as master, but a signal is not present or has a
different sample rate than the chosen one.

17 | 3.15. Word Clock

RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

3.16. USB 2.0 Type B Jack

The USB jack at the rear of the AVB Tool provides an alternative connection method for web remote
control when a network connection is not available.

When connecting the AVB Tool with a standard ("printer") USB 2.0 cable to a current
MicrosoftÊWindows™ or AppleÊmacOS™ operating system, a network adapter will be automatically
installed. This does not require additional drivers. The device can then be remotely controlled by opening
the URL http://172.20.0.1.



The USB port cannot be used to stream audio signals.

3.16. USB 2.0 Type B Jack | 18

RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

3.17. Analog Line Level Outputs

Two 1/4" (6.3mm) TRS balanced line level outputs (labelled 3 and 4) are located on the rear panel. They
support +4 dBu and +19 dBu line level.

Any digital or analog input signal can be sent to these outputs. The outputs are servo balanced, therefore
unbalanced cables with TS plugs can be used and deliver the same output level as balanced
connections.

3.18. Security Lock Slot

A slot marked "Lock" can be used to secure the device physically. The size of the slot follows industry
standards and can be used with Kensington® standard security slot locks.

19 | 3.17. Analog Line Level Outputs

RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

4. Accessories

RME offers optional accessories for the AVB Tool:

Part Number Description

SFP Modules

MADI-SFP-MM MADI optical multi-mode module, 2 km, LC

MADI-SFP-SM MADI optical single-mode module, 20 km, LC

4. Accessories | 20

RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

5. AVB Connectivity

Network Control

The AVB Tool is an AVB endpoint device that can be configured with the IEEE Standard for Device
Discovery, Connection Management, and Control Protocol for IEEE 1722™ Based Devices, in short:
AVDECC.

This device does not provide an AVDECC controller for other devices on a network. To



There are several AVDECC controllers available for download from different manufacturers that support
the commands required to

• identify the device,

• adjust its sample rate and clock source, and

• create connections to or from it.

The RME Digiface AVB includes an AVDECC controller.

establish an AVB connection between devices, a separate controller is required.

Many other configuration options of the AVB Tool are at this time not implemented in generic AVDECC
controllers. Both the control on the device and its web remote can be used to configure additional
options.

An AVDECC controller can optionally acquire the device. This means that the AVB Tool is



no longer configurable by display or web remote until the acquisition is released.

Audio Streaming

The AVB Tool has eight outgoing and eight incoming stream ports. Each one can be configured to
contain 1-8, 12 or 16 audio channels in AAF or AM824 format, or 0 audio channels in CRF format.

In order to establish a connection (stream) between two AVB devices, the following conditions must be
fulfilled:

1. There must be a physical connection between the devices.

2. All switches between the devices must be certified AVB switches (or compatible).

3. An AVDECC Controller is required to find the devices and to connect them.

4. Talker and listener must support the stream format and channel count.

A stream between two AVB devices is deterministic, has a fixed latency, and reserved



bandwidth.

5.1. Identifying a Device Remotely

When several AVB Tools are connected to the same network, each device has its own remote control. To
quickly reveal which device is currently being controlled, the web remote and any AVDECC controller can
send an Identify command. This triggers an animation of the front panel level meters of the
corresponding device.

To start device identification with the web remote:

21 | 5. AVB Connectivity

RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

1. Open an AVB Tool web remote in a browser (see Section 2.3, “Controlling the device”)

2.

Press the identify  icon. The front panel level meters of the controlled device will show an
animation.

Depending on the controller, the animation may persist infinitely or stop after a short



period of time.

5.2. Changing the Device Name

A custom name can be assigned to the device. It is used to identify the AVB entity with AVDECC
controllers. It also allows the access to the web remote without using the IP address on AppleÊmacOS™
computers.

The device name is stored to and recalled from presets. Loading a preset can therefore



Changing the device name is only possible via web remote or AVDECC controller.

change the device name. It is not affected by firmware updates.

5.3. AVB Stream Size and Format

In an AVB network, a stream describes a connection between a talker and one or more listeners. It
consists of a fixed number of audio channels at a fixed sample rate. The stream port of the talker and the
listener must be configured to have the same amount of channels and stream format. Once a stream is
connected, each AVB switch along its way ensures that the audio channels can pass in time, with a
higher priority than other network traffic.

For audio transport, AVB audio endpoints support the AM824 Stream Format or the more efficient AVTP
Audio Format (AAF). Additionally, they may support the Clock Reference Format (CRF), which contains
only clock information, but no audio.

The AVB Tool supports a total of eight incoming streams and eight outgoing streams. Each stream port
can be individually configured to contain 1-8, 12 or 16 channels in AM824 or AAF format. Additionally, a
stream port may be configured for 0 channel CRF streams.

5.4. AVB Network Latency

All devices in an AVB network share the same time. This allows the sending device (talker) to specify the
precise point of time when its audio samples should be played out at the receiver side (listener). This is
achieved by adding an offset to the current time and sending the resulting timestamp with each sample
transmitted. The timestamp is called "presentation time" and has nanosecond precision. For comparison,
a single sample at 48 kHz has a duration of over 20800 ns.

The receiver compares the incoming presentation time of each sample to the current time and buffers
the sample until the presentation time is has come.

The offset (maximum transit time) is specified by the AVB standard as 2 ms for class A traffic, which is
enough time for the signal to pass through a very large network under full load with up to seven 100
MBit/s switches along the way. By default, most AVB products will use this offset. In smaller networks
with less hops or 1 GBit/s link speed, the offset can be adjusted to lower values, such as 0.3 ms, 0.6 ms
or 1 ms. In the event that the chosen offset is too low, the listener detects that the requested
presentation time has already passed and the audio data is discarded.

The AVB Tool acts both as a talker with a specified offset of 2 ms, adjustable down to 0.3 ms, and as a

5.2. Changing the Device Name | 22

RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

listener - where the latency is configured by the talker.

In AVB networks, the latency is always specified by the talker and guaranteed by the



listener. This behavior is plug and play and does not require any user interaction or
monitoring.

5.4.1. Adjusting the network latency

The default presentation time offset of 2 ms for outgoing streams can be changed when lower latencies
are required.

Reducing the offset to a lower value can prevent audio to be played out depending on the



This setting can only be accessed on the web remote (see Section 2.3, “Controlling the device”), where it
can be found in the outgoing stream settings.



network.

Changing the presentation time offset briefly interrupts all incoming and outgoing AVB
streams.

23 | 5.4. AVB Network Latency

RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

6. Quick Start (MADI)

Follow this procedure to send microphone input signals to the digital outputs.

1. Load Preset 1 from the STATE>Preset tab. If
Preset 1 has been modified, load the Factory
preset and create a routing first Section 10.1,
“Routing Signals to the Outputs”.

3. After connecting an analog signal, adjust its
gain level as needed: press the button next to the
input.

 done! The channel is sent to the MADI and AVB outputs.

2. In the CLOCK section, choose a sample rate
and verify that the device is clock master or that
the chosen clock source is in sync.

4. Then, use the buttons and encoder next to the
display to adjust settings as needed.

6. Quick Start (MADI) | 24

RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

7. Warranty and Support

7.1. Warranty

Each individual AVB Tool undergoes comprehensive quality control and a complete test before shipping.
The usage of high grade components should guarantee a long and trouble-free operation of the unit.

If you suspect that your product is faulty, please contact your local retailer. Do not disassemble the
device by yourself as it may get damaged. It has been sealed with tamper-evident material, and your
warranty is void if those seals have been damaged.

The distributor grants a limited manufacturer warranty of 6 months from the day of invoice showing the
date of sale. The length of the warranty period is different per country. Please contact your local
distributor for extended warranty information and service. Note that each country may have regional
specific warranty implications.

In any case warranty does not cover damage caused by improper installation or maltreatment ­replacement or repair in such cases can only be carried out at the owner’s expense.

No warranty service is provided when the product is not returned to the local distributor in the region
where the product had been originally shipped.

The distributor does not accept claims for damages of any kind, especially consequential damage.
Liability is limited to the value of the AVB Tool. The general terms of business drawn up by the distributor
apply at all times.

7.2. Support

Please ensure that you are using the latest firmware before contacting support.

In many cases, the user forum at https://forum.rme-audio.de provides help with a simple search for
relevant keywords.

If the problem cannot be solved by any of the aforementioned methods, please have your serial number
at hand and contact and your local dealer or distributor. A complete list of distributors can be found on
the RME website.

25 | 7. Warranty and Support

RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

7.3. Support Contacts

Additionally, the following global service centers can provide support assistance:

Europe

Audio AG, Germany

[e-mail]

Synthax U.K.

[e-mail]

Asia/Australia

RME Trading Ltd., Hong Kong

[e-mail]

Americas

Synthax Inc., U.S.A.

[e-mail]

Global

[e-mail]

7.3. Support Contacts | 26

RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

8. STATE Section

The STATE section contains states and settings that are unrelated to audio I/O and clock. It can be used
to configure presets, dark mode, level meters, and remote control.

A notification (orange) is shown when a preset is modified, no IP address was assigned to the web
remote or any dark mode is active.

8.1. Presets

Any change in the device configuration is persistent. After a power loss, the device will revert back to its
last state. Additionally, the AVB Tool can save fifteen states in presets numbered 1-15. After a preset is
loaded, any change in the configuration will result in an unsaved changes state.

Representation of an unsaved preset on the device.

The internal preset storage is not affected when the device firmware is updated. Moreover,



recalling the factory default preset does not delete any other saved preset.

Settings that are not saved in a Preset

The following settings are not saved in a preset:

• Auto-lock

• Lock code

• Remote control

8.1.1. Saving Presets

Up to 15 presets can be saved in the internal storage of the AVB Tool.

To save a preset on the device:

1. Open the preset tab in the STATE section. The currently loaded preset is shown.

2. (optional) Rotate the encoder to choose a preset that should be overwritten.

27 | 8. STATE Section

RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

3. Push Save to save the preset.

8.1.2. Loading Presets

Up to 15 custom presets can be loaded from the internal storage of the AVB Tool.

Loading a preset cannot be undone. Ensure that any important configuration has been





saved to another preset before proceeding.

The device name is part of the preset. When a preset is loaded, the device name is changed
to the value stored in the preset.

To load a preset on the device:

1. Open the preset tab in the STATE section (see: Section 2.3, “Controlling the device”).

2. Rotate the encoder to choose a preset.

3. Select Load to load the preset.

8.1.3. Loading Factory Default Settings

The factory default settings are saved internally as Factory Preset and cannot be overwritten.

To load the factory defaults, load the 16th preset labelled Factory Preset.

Loading the factory defaults does not delete any saved presets. It also does not affect the



lock settings in the STATE section.

8.2. Device Lock

The AVB Tool can be secured against both accidental and intentional changes to its configuration.
Locking the device, with or without code, protects against changes on the device itself. When locked, the
display shows a lock symbol.

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RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

The device lock does not protect against changes over network or MIDI remote control protocols. The
lock configuration is not stored within a preset.

A four to six digit code can be configured on the device. If this code is lost or forgotten, it is



not possible for the user to unlock the device. Contact your support for assistance.

8.2.1. Locking the Device

In order to lock the device, proceed with the following steps:

1. Open the lock tab in the STATE section (see Section 2.3, “Controlling the device”).

2. (optional) Set Code: enter a four to six digit code with the encoder.

3. (optional) Activate the Auto Lock toggle to lock after one minute.

4. (optional) Select Lock Device Now to lock immediately.

Remember or write down the code shown in SET CODE. It is not possible to unlock the



To delete the code, move the cursor on the code and push the encoder. "No code" will be displayed.

device without this code. A unique secondary code (PUK) can be obtained from RME
Support upon request with a proof of purchase and device serial number.

8.2.2. Unlocking the Device

To unlock the device temporarily:

1. Push and hold the encoder button for four seconds.

2. (if a code was set) Enter the code using the encoder and choose "Done".

The device will lock again after a timeout of one minute.

To unlock the device permanently:

1. Proceed as above, then

2. Open the lock tab in the STATE section

29 | 8.2. Device Lock

RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

3. Deactivate the lock by toggling the switch to: OFF

4. (optional) Move the encoder onto the lock code (if any), and push the encoder to delete it.

8.3. Front Panel Illumination

The AVB Tool front panel illumination reveals the current device state at a glance. It combines:

• full color LEDs at each input

• a standby indicator with integrated status warning

• a display with level meters and status feedback

Each of these three elements can be individually switched off (dark mode).

8.3.1. Dark Mode

Each of the three front panel illumination sections can be switched off if they are not required.

To turn off illumination on the device:

1. Open the visual feedback tab in the STATE section.

2. Change any of the following:
a. Display to off to turn off the display.
b. Status indicator to off to turn off the standby/status indicator .
c. LED Meters to off or Dimmed to turn off or dim channel LEDs.

When any item is turned off, a notification (orange) is shown in the STATE
section.

To turn panel illumination back on:

1. Open the same menu and set the corresponding switches to to On.

To turn the front panel lighting on temporarily, just rotate or push the encoder. The panel



will turn back off after five seconds.

8.3.2. Changing the Meters to Peak or RMS Mode

Depending on the application, instantaneous peak level metering or a slower, averaged RMS metering
may be preferred.

To change the metering mode on the device:

1. Open the visual feedback tab in the STATE section.

8.3. Front Panel Illumination | 30

RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

2. Open "Global Meters" using the corresponding button.

3. Press the first button to toggle between Peak and RMS metering.

This is a global setting which affects both the front panel level meters and the remote



control interface.

8.3.3. Persistent Clipping Notifications and Peak Hold

The maximum level of signals can be saved and shown on the front panel and web remote. Clipping is
detected when three consecutive samples reach digital full scale (0 dBFS). The duration of how long the
maximum level or clipping is shown can be manually changed to either five seconds or until they are
manually reset.



To switch over notifications on or off:

1. Open the visual feedback tab in the STATE section

2. Change Peak Hold to either:

◦

◦

◦

This is a global setting which affects both the remote control and the device.

On the device, an over notification is signaled as a fast flashing (red) of the
channel LED.

5s to notify for five seconds
On to notify until manually reset
Off to deactivate over notifications

To reset infinite full scale notifications:

1. Open either the INFO menu from the standby screen or the visual feedback - Global Meters tab in the

STATE section.

31 | 8.3. Front Panel Illumination

RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

2. Push the Peak Reset button.

8.3.4. Metering of Digital Signals

The incoming and outgoing digital signals can be visually inspected to ensure that signals are properly
connected and routed. Level meters are included for each port in the corresponding input and output
sections, but they can also be inspected quickly from the main window without using the main menu:

To show the digital level meters on the display:

1. Open the info section on the main screen.

2. Open the tab "Levelmeters".

3. Turn the encoder knob to step through the input and output signals.

8.4. Remote Control Overview

The AVB Tool can be remotely controlled. Remote control is activated by default and is not affected by
preset changes or device lock.

The network controls over HTTP and AVDECC operate simultaneously. Two or more controller instances
are synchronized. The MIDI control works either via DIN or is embedded into either MADI signals. Both
network and MIDI control can be operated at the same time.



The remote control protocols are not protected against malicious use. When activated, the
remote control server allows anyone on the network to make changes to the configuration
of the device. To limit access, secure the network that the device is connected to.

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RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

8.4.1. Finding the Device on a Network

The AVB Tool has two integrated network adapters (USB 2.0 and ethernet). The adapters can be used,
individually or simultaneously, to control the device with HTTP ("web remote"). The web remote control
works on any IP-based network, including wireless networks.

The ethernet connection additionally supports AVDECC 1722.1 remote protocol, which requires a
physical connection (cables), but does not require AVB switches. Wireless routers are not supported for
AVDECC.

To enable web remote functionality over HTTP:

1. Open the remote tab in the STATE section.

2. Ensure that the HTTP Remote setting is switched to ON.

USB

When the device is connected with a USB 2.0 cable to a AppleÊmacOS™ or MicrosoftÊWindows™
computer, a network device is automatically installed in the background that assigns the AVB Tool the
following IP address:

http://172.20.0.1

Only one of the following products can be connected to the host computer via USB at a



time: RME M-32 AD Pro, M-32 DA Pro, 12Mic, AVB Tool, M-1610 Pro.

Ethernet

The integrated ethernet adapter will join an IP network when connected. If no DHCP server is found, for
example when connecting the AVB Tool directly to a computer, an address is automatically self-assigned
(in the 169.254.0.0/16 subnet).

To find out the current IP address:

1. Open the remote tab in the STATE section.

2. The current IP address is displayed.

3. Enter the IP address in the address bar.

Connecting to the Remote Interface without IP address

Instead of using the IP address, the device name can be entered in the browser window, followed by
.local./.

By default, the name is avb-tool, and the corresponding URL is therefore:

http://avb-tool.local./

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RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

The length of the custom name should not exceed 63 characters. Spaces in the device





name should be written as hyphens ("-") when entering the URL.

The device name is stored in a preset. Loading a preset can therefore change the device
name and require a different address.

8.4.2. Web Remote

An integrated web server provides an easy-to-use remote control interface for the AVB Tool. It requires a
network connection from a desktop or tablet computer with a current browser version.

Due to the amount of features, the web remote manual has been separated from this



Compatible browsers:

• Chrome 68

• Safari 11.1

manual. A link to download the current manual can be found on the RME website and in the
 Settings section of the web remote.

• Firefox 61

or newer

8.4. Remote Control Overview | 34

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RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

Section 2.2, “Firmware Update”

Section 5.1, “Identifying a Device Remotely”

Section 8.1, “Presets”

Section 8.3, “Front Panel Illumination”

Section 10.1, “Routing Signals to the Outputs”

Section 11, “CLOCK Section”

Section 9, “INPUT Section”

Section 9.1, “Analog Inputs”

Section 10, “OUTPUT Section”

35 | 8.4. Remote Control Overview

RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

8.5. Device Information

The information tab is located in the STATE section.

It shows the current device name, firmware version and gPTP Grandmaster ID.

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RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

9. INPUT Section

The input section is used to inspect and configure the audio inputs of the device. A warning is displayed
when a digital input is not present but selected as clock master, or routed to an output and is either not
present or not in sync to the clock master. Related input settings, such as AVB stream size or MADI auto
input, can be configured here.

9.1. Analog Inputs

The analog inputs of the AVB Tool can be configured at the device or remotely. Gain, phase, phantom
power (48V) and TRS can be set on all inputs. While switched to TRS, the impedance can be set to High-Z
for instrument signals.

Phantom power is only available at the XLR input, high impedance only at the TRS input.
When toggling from TRS to XLR, the current High-Z setting is stored and recalled to its







previous state when toggled back. The phantom power setting is not stored and will be
switched off when toggling the channel to TRS.

To protect the input stage, only switch on phantom power after connecting a compatible
condenser microphone or accessory. Remember to switch off phantom power when
unplugging a microphone and before saving a preset.

The gain and phase settings are not affected when toggling between XLR and TRS inputs.

Latency and default routing

At single speed sample rates, the converters are configured with short delay 'sharp' IIR filters with
extremely low latencies (5 samples) and flat frequency response over the entire audible range. At higher
sample rates, a short delay 'slow' filter is used to additionally optimize the impulse response. The latency
increases to six samples at quad speed (176.4 kHz, 192 kHz).

A new device has a user-writeable preset 1 with the following default routing. While the factory default
preset (16) does not contain any routings, preset 1 is convenient for plug’n’play operation.



The default setting in preset 1 routes the analog inputs 1-4 to:

• both MADI coaxial and optional MADI SFP (channel 1-4),

• AVB stream 1 (AAF, 4 channels)

• AVB stream 2 (AM824, 4 channels)

37 | 9. INPUT Section

save preset 1 to any other preset for backup if it appears to be useful.

RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

9.1.1. Analog Input User Interfaces

Each analog input channel at the device has its own button. The button activates a settings dialog on the
screen.

Activate channel controls

Monitor to phones

Gain Groups and Phase

Phantom Power

XLR/TRS Toggle

Current Input Level

Current Gain

Encoder

9.1.2. Adjusting the Input Gain

To adjust the input gain on the device:

1. Press the button next to the input. The current gain will be shown on the screen.

2. Rotate the encoder to adjust the gain.

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RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

9.1.3. Enabling Phantom Power (P48)

Channels with active phantom power are shown on the standby-screen with a yellow square indicator.

To activate phantom power on several channels:

1. While the standby screen shows the input level meters, press and hold the first button next to the

yellow indicator. An instruction is shown on the display and the LEDs next to the input channels
change to off (no phantom power) or yellow (phantom power active).

2. While holding down the button, press the channel buttons next to each input where the phantom

power should be toggled on or off. A yellow LED at the input represents active phantom power.

To activate phantom power on a single channel:

1. Use the button next to the analog input to access its settings.

2. Use the P48 button to toggle phantom power.



Phantom power settings are not shown when the channel is switched to TRS input.

9.1.4. Switching Between XLR and TRS Inputs

The input channels 1-4 have "combo-jacks" that support both XLR and TRS connectors. When a plug is
inserted, the corresponding input must be selected in the input settings. XLR is the default choice in the
factory preset.

The current input mode is shown on the standby screen:

39 | 9.1. Analog Inputs

RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

To toggle between XLR and TRS inputs on several channels:

1. While the standby screen shows the input level meters, press and hold the second button next to the

X|T indicator. An instruction is shown on the display and the LEDs next to the input channels change
to off (XLR) or white (TRS).

2. While holding down the button, press the channel buttons next to each input where the TRS input

should be activated. A white LED at the input represents TRS.

To toggle XLR/TRS on a single channel:

1. Use the button next to the corresponding analog input to access its settings.

2. Use the XLR|TRS button to toggle the change the corresponding input. The active setting will be

highlighted in blue.

9.1.5. Activating High Impedance (Hi-Z) on TRS Inputs

A high input impedance can be activated manually for unbalanced TS connectors on inputs 1-4. The
current input mode is shown on the standby screen:

9.1. Analog Inputs | 40

RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

To activate high impedance on several channels:

1. While the standby screen shows the input level meters, press then hold down the first button. An

instruction is shown on the display and the LEDs next to the TRS input channels change to white (low
impedance) or blue (high impedance).

2. While holding down the button, press the channel buttons next to each TRS input where high

impedance should be activated. A blue LED at the input represents high impedance.

To activate high impedance on a single TRS input channel:

1. Use the button next to the corresponding TRS input to access its settings.

2. Use the Hi-Z button to toggle high impedance. The active setting will be highlighted in blue.



High impedance settings are not shown when the channel is switched to XLR input.

9.1.6. Inverting the Phase of an Analog Input Signal

The phase of analog input signals can be inverted at the input.

To toggle the phase of an input signal

1. Use the button next to the corresponding input to access its settings.

2. Press the third button two times in quick succession (double press). The phase button Ø will become

yellow.

41 | 9.1. Analog Inputs

RME AVB Tool User’s Guide



The setting persists even if the input source is toggled between XLR and TRS.

9.1.7. Gain Groups

The gain level of two or more channels can be linked temporarily or permanently. When part of a group,
gain is increased or decreased as an offset (in dB) to the previously set individual gain levels. The offset
is not stored itself - the adjustment is immediately applied to all member channels. Each time a gain
group is accessed, the offset starts at 0 dB. If a gain of a channel is at its lowest setting (0 dBu) and a
negative offset is created in a group that comprises the channel, the offset is ignored.

Group Overview

Level meters

Add channels to group

Save group

Current offset

Linked gains

Gain indicator

All channels in a gain group will reach the same gain value when the offset reaches its







maximum/minimum value. Any previously created gain differences between the channels
will be lost.

It is possible to adjust the gain of individual channels even when they are part of a gain
group.

In order to create an equal gain for all channels in a group, first set the offset of the group
to its lowest (negative) value. Then, increase the offset to the preferred gain.

9.1. Analog Inputs | 42

RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

9.1.8. Creating a Gain Group

Gains can be linked directly at the device using the following methods.

To link the gain of two or more consecutive input channels while the device is idle (main screen):

1. Press and hold the first button at the first input. The channel is selected as the first channel in a

group.

2. While holding down the first button, press a second button at another input. All inputs in-between will

be added to the group. Release the buttons and adjust gain as required.

Channels that participate in the current group are shown with colored level meters and



a connecting line towards the encoder. Channels that do not participate in the group
have grey level meters.

3. Hold down the third button (+) to add or remove individual channels from the group.

To link the gain of a selected channel to additional channels:

1. Press and hold the third button "+". The button turns green and an instruction will be shown.

2. Press a second button at another input. The new gain group is shown.

9.1.9. Saving a Gain Group

A temporary gain group can be saved. The gain group can then be opened anytime by pressing the
channel button of a participating group once. Individual channel settings, such as phantom power, can
still be accessed by pressing the channel button a second time.

To save the current gain group:

1. Create a temporary gain group. The selected channels will be shown on the screen, connected by a

line attached to the bottom of their level meter.

43 | 9.1. Analog Inputs

RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

2. Press the fourth button next to the display. The "link" indicator turns green, indicating a saved group.

Groups will be saved in presets and appear always on both the device and its web



interface. The gain of individual channels remains fully independent.

9.1.10. Monitor Analog Inputs at Phones Output

The phones output at the front of the AVB Tool can receive any input signal. Permanent routings are
configured in the Phones Output settings (see Section 10.1, “Routing Signals to the Outputs” and Section

10.2, “Phones Output”). Additionally, the analog input screens provide a quick and convenient method to
temporarily send their signal to the phones output.

To listen to an analog input on the phones output:

1. Ensure that the output volume is adequate (see Section 10.2.1, “Adjusting the Headphone Volume”)

2. Press the button next to the corresponding channel to open the channel settings.

3. Use the fourth button to send this channel to the Phones Output (left and right) The button turns

green, indicating that temporary routing has been established. The green button is also shown on the
main screen and in the phones output settings.

To remove the temporary phones routing:

• Deactivate the routing by either pressing its button in the corresponding input channel, or

• by opening the phones output and deactivating the mode there. If there was a previous routing, it will
be re-established immediately.

when changing the routing, always ensure that the headphone volume is low to avoid



damage to headphones and hearing.

9.2. MADI Input

The AVB Tool accepts up to two MADI signals, one electrical (BNC input) and one optical via SFP option
(LC input).

To connect a MADI signal:

1. Ensure that you have set the correct sample rate and clock source in the CLOCK section.

2. Connect the cable to the corresponding input.

3. Open a MADI tab in the input section to see the current LOCK and SYNC state.

4. (optional) Use the device level meters to inspect the audio channels from the incoming MADI signal
(see: Section 8.3.4, “Metering of Digital Signals”).

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RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

It is best to create a routing for the MADI signal right away, before connecting the cable to
the device. This activates monitoring of the corresponding input for signal loss or clock



issues. If no routing exists and the signal is not set as clock reference, plugging in a MADI
signal will not lead to any visible change on the device standby screen.

9.2.1. MADI at High Sample Rates

The MADI standard (AES10) allows transport of audio at sample rates beyond 48 kHz by reducing the
number of available channels.

Double speed (88.2 kHz, 96 kHz)

Double speed audio signals can be transmitted and received in two different ways. Manufacturers can
implement one or both modes, usually referred to as "96k frame" and "S/MUX 2" or "legacy" mode. It is
important to use the same mode on both sender and receiver side because S/MUX 2 and legacy mode
are not compatible. Both modes transport the audio signal transparently.

96k frame

The so-called "96k frame pattern" (AES10) can be detected at the receiver side automatically. In this
mode, the frame numbers and corresponding user bits equal the number of channels submitted. The "56
Ch." setting corresponds to 28 audio channels at 88.2 kHz and 96 kHz sample rates. The "64 Ch." setting
corresponds to 32 audio channels at 88.2 kHz and 96 kHz sample rates.

S/MUX 2

Sample multiplexing (or S/MUX 2) describes a method to distribute two consecutive samples onto
neighboring channels. The MADI signal remains exactly the same as in single speed with 56 or 64
channels including its user-bits. The receiver decodes the audio signal by passing the samples of
channel 1+2 as two consecutive samples for channel 1, samples of channel 3+4 as two consecutive
samples for channel 2, and so forth. The amount of channels corresponds to the same as the 96k frame.
This format cannot be automatically detected at the receiver side.

Quad Speed (176.4 kHz, 196 kHz)

Quad speed MADI does not have a standardized frame format. Therefore S/MUX 4 is used. The encoding
works the same way as S/MUX 2, except that four consecutive channels are used to transport one audio
channel. This reduces the available number of channels to 14 ("56 Ch." setting) or 16 ("64 Ch." setting).

When using MADI, the sample rate of the incoming MADI signal and the expected frame



format of the outgoing MADI signal must be set in the device.

9.2.2. Connecting Two Identical MADI Signals for Redundancy

The coaxial MADI input can be configured to automatically switch to an existing MADI optical signal in
case the coaxial signal fails. While existing routing and clock settings from the coaxial MADI input are
kept, the port’s name is changed to MADI Auto Input and its icon changes to reflect the feature. The
failover is seamless if the active input loses lock abruptly (e.g. one of the cables is unplugged).

The user is notified of the lost signal with a warning and redundancy can be
re-established.

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RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

For a seamless failover, the two MADI signals must be identical. However, only the SYNC



To create MADI redundancy:

1. Switch on "enable MADI redundancy" in the coaxial tab of the INPUT section. The port will be
renamed to MADI Auto Input.

2. Create a routing from MADI Auto Input to any output.

3. If the device should also slave to MADI Auto Input, choose it as clock master in the CLOCK section.

4. Connect both MADI signals with identical audio.

and LOCK states are evaluated to confirm the current input state. It is therefore possible to
send two different signals to the AVB Tool as long as they are in sync.

9.3. AVB Input Streams

The AVB streams received by the AVB Tool are referred to as "input streams". For these streams, the
device acts as an AVB Listener.

To establish a connection between a talker and a listener, an AVDECC Controller is required. The AVB
Tool does not include an AVDECC Controller.

AVB input streams are monitored as follows:

Description Indicator Possible solution

Disabled grey Create connection with AVDECC

controller

Streaming/Receiving green

No Data red Verify proper talker configuration

SR Mismatch red Verify that the sample rates of talker and

listener are identical

Waiting yellow … Waiting for talker to be ready

Talker Fail red Verify proper talker configuration

No Bandwidth red Use faster network speed (1 GBit/s

instead of 100 MBit/s)

Domain Boundary red Reconnect all devices and reboot switch,

ensure only AVB switches are used

Internal Error red Reboot device

9.3.1. Change AVB Input Stream Size

Each of the eight AVB streams can have a size of 1-8, 12 or 16 channels in AM824 and AAF stream
formats, or 0 channels in CRF Media Clock stream format.

To change the amount of channels and format of incoming AVB streams on the device:

1. Open the AVB tab in the INPUT section.

2. Use the first button and encoder to select an incoming stream.

9.3. AVB Input Streams | 46

RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

3. Use the second button and encoder to change the stream size and format.



Changing a stream size briefly interrupts all incoming and outgoing AVB streams.

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10. OUTPUT Section

The output section represents the internal routing matrix and state of the outputs. Routing is performed
by selecting an output and assigning any input to it. When a routing is active, its input is automatically
monitored for lock and sync in the input section. For AVB stream outputs, their states are additionally
monitored in the output section.

Example:

In the OUTPUT section, MADI Optical 1-12 is chosen as source for AVB Stream 2. The AVB Tool is clock
master, but the incoming MADI signal is not correctly synchronized. This causes a warning in the INPUT
section. If MADI Optical is not routed to any output, an invalid or missing signal does not cause a
warning.

Use the web remote to find out quickly which outputs are receiving a specific input signal.



Device Output Section

The web remote provides a thorough representation of all active routing connections at a
glance.

The device allows full inspection and configuration of outgoing signals including routing in four channel
blocks.

10.1. Routing Signals to the Outputs

Each output channel of the AVB Tool can receive any input signal. If preset 1 has not been modified, it
contains a routing of all analog inputs to all digital outputs. However, this can be adjusted and changed
easily. The factory default preset does not contain any routing.

A routing immediately activates input monitoring for a corresponding digital input and



The following example shows the procedure to route to MADI Coaxial output channels. Other outputs
follow the same principle.

To create a routing to a MADI Coaxial output on the device:

1. Open the routing tab of the MADI Coaxial output in the OUTPUT section (see Section 2.3, “Controlling
the device”).

raises a warning in the input state if the source signal is not available or out of sync.

2. Activate the routing destination and choose an output channel with the encoder (1, 2).

3. Activate the routing source and choose an input channel with the encoder (3, 4).

To remove a routing on the device:

10. OUTPUT Section | 48

RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

1. Navigate to the corresponding output channel (1, 2).

2. Double click on "Increment routing". The routing source will be changed to "not routed".

3. (optional) Hold "increment routing" while turning the encoder to remove routings to the following
output channels.

To route consecutive channels:

1. Navigate to the first output channel (1, 2) and create a routing as described above.

2. Hold "increment routing" while turning the encoder clockwise to increment input channel and output
channel at the same time.

10.2. Phones Output

The front TRS connector can be used for phones or as a balanced mono output.
Any incoming signal can be routed to the phones output. Analog input signals can
be temporarily routed to the phones output while the original routing remains
saved. A button on the standby screen gives access to all features of the output.

The analog output level meters show the routed input signal relative to 0 dBFS (pre gain)



in grey color in the background, and additionally the calculated output level post gain in
green color in the foreground.

10.2.1. Adjusting the Headphone Volume

The volume of the unbalanced phone outputs can be adjusted separately or as a stereo pair.

To adjust the headphone volume on the device:

1. While on the main screen, rotate the encoder. The current volume will be shown below the encoder on
the screen.

To separate the left and right headphone channels:

1. Open the headphone configuration by clicking the phones icon on the main screen.

2.

Open the additional settings  by pressing the encoder.

3. Press the "Stereo" button to separate the left and right channel. Each channel now has its own
volume control which can be accessed by toggling the following button on the phones screen:

49 | 10.2. Phones Output

RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

Follow the same procedure to join the two channels as a Stereo channel.

10.2.2. Muting the Phones Output

To mute the phones output

1. While on the main screen, press the headphone button. The phones settings opens.

2. Press the mute button. It turns red to symbolize that the phones are muted.

10.2.3. Using Phones Out as a Balanced Line Output

The headphone output can operate as a mono balanced line level output. This may for example be useful
when an active talkback speaker with symmetrical input is connected to the 12Mic.

To toggle balanced output mode on the Phones output:

1. On the main screen, press the Phones button to access phones output settings.

2.

Press the encoder to open additional settings .

3. Press the "BAL" button to switch the channel to balanced out. The channel that was routed to the left
phones output will now be applied to both tip and ring of a TRS connector, the phase being inverted
on the ring.

10.2.4. Line Level Outputs

The rear analog TRS connectors can be configured as individual channels or a
stereo pair and their level adjusted to +4 dBu or +19 dBu. Any incoming signal can
be routed to the analog outputs. To access these channels from the standby
screen, open the phones settings first and then use the '3|4' button to open the line
outputs.

10.2.5. Changing Analog Output Volume

The level of the balanced line level outputs can be adjusted separately or as a stereo group.

10.2. Phones Output | 50

RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

To adjust the volume of both channels as a stereo pair (default):

1. On the main screen, press the Phones button to access phones output settings.

2. Press the '3|4' selection button to access output channel 3 and 4.

3. Adjust the volume using the encoder.

To separate Output Channels 3 and 4

1. Open output channel 3|4 as above.

2.

Press the encoder to open  additional settings.

3. Click the "Stereo" button to separate the channels.

10.3. MADI Outputs

The MADI outputs of the AVB Tool are always active. If no routing is configured, an empty stream is sent
that can be used for clocking. This state is represented with a light-green Status Indicator.

10.3.1. Setting the Output Channel Format and Frame Pattern

Depending on the requirements of the receiver, it is possible to change the channel format and frame
pattern of the outgoing MADI streams.

To change the channel format of both MADI outputs on the device:

1. Go to one of the MADI tabs in the OUTPUT section.

2. Toggle the switch to 56Ch or 64Ch to adjust number of output channels.

56Ch and 64Ch format correspond to 28/32 channels at double speed, and to 14/16



To change the frame pattern of both MADI outputs on the device:

1. Go to one of the MADI tabs in the OUTPUT section.

2. Toggle the switch for 96k to use the 96k frame at 88.2 kHz and 96 kHz.

channels at quad speed.

96k frame setting is only used at sample rates 88.2 kHz and 96 kHz and is otherwise





51 | 10.3. MADI Outputs

ignored.

It is not possible to select separate settings for each MADI port. Both ports will be affected
regardless which output tab is used to change the setting.

RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

10.3.2. MADI Daisy Chains

MADI is a uni-directional protocol with a fixed number of channels. When more than two MADI devices
are connected, a serial connection is required. This is also referred to as a "daisy chain". The output of
the first device is connected to the input of the second device, the output of the second device to the
input of third device, and so on, until the signal is plugged into the input of the first device.

It is important to understand that each device must be programmed to pass on audio from its MADI
input to the MADI output. Otherwise, the last device would only receive the channels of one device.

While many RME devices pass on MADI signals automatically, the AVB Tool must be



In order to pass on signals, configure the output routing of the required output port to pass on the signal
from the MADI input port.

explicitly configured to do so.



The latency of the MADI I/O is four samples.

10.3.3. MADI Port Mirroring

A redundant MADI connection protects from loss of audio in case of a single cable failure. To achieve
redundancy, the receiver must support MADI redundancy. The sender must send two identical MADI
signals on two outputs, usually the coaxial and optical ports.

The AVB Tool features independent routing for both MADI output ports. For this reason, a "mirroring" of
the signal must be manually created. In order to do this, the routing of the two MADI outputs should be
configured to contain the same routing.

The receiving device usually ignores the audio contents of the two MADI signals. Therefore,



the redundancy may appear to be set up even though the AVB Tool sends different audio
signals on both ports.

10.4. AVB Output Streams

The AVB streams leaving the AVB Tool are described as "output streams". In this case, the device acts as
a talker. The talker defines the presentation time and therefore the latency across the network. This is set
per default to 2 ms.

The output streams of the AVB Tool are by default empty, containing a clock signal but no audio signal.
To send audio with AVB, a routing must be created for each outgoing stream.

To establish a connection between a talker and a listener, an AVDECC controller is required. The AVB
Tool does not include an AVDECC controller.

Outgoing AVB streams are monitored by the device as follows:

Description Indicator Possible solution

Disabled grey Create routing

Disabled orange Create connection with AVDECC

controller

Streaming/Transmitting green

10.4. AVB Output Streams | 52

RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

Description Indicator Possible solution

SR mismatch red Verify that the sample rates of

talker and listener are identical

Waiting yellow … Wait for listener to be ready

Listener Fail red Verify proper listener

configuration

No Bandwidth red Use faster network speed (1

GBit/s instead of 100 MBit/s)

Domain Boundary red Reconnect all devices and reboot

switch

Internal Error red Reboot device

10.4.1. Change AVB Output Stream Size and Format

Each of the eight outgoing AVB streams can have a size of 1-8, 12 or 16 channels in AM824 and AAF
stream formats, or 0 channels in CRF Media Clock stream format.

To change the amount of channels and its format in the outgoing AVB stream on the device:

1.

Select the configuration  of the corresponding AVB Stream tab in the OUTPUT section.

2. Use the button next to Stream format

3. Rotate the encoder to configure a new stream size and stream format and confirm by pressing the
encoder again.





53 | 10.4. AVB Output Streams

Changing a stream size briefly interrupts all incoming and outgoing AVB streams.

Changing stream sizes is not possible when streams are connected.

RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

11. CLOCK Section

The CLOCK section is used to inspect and configure the clock source and sample rate of the AVB Tool.

11.1. Clock status

The clock of all digital inputs is continuously monitored with SyncCheck™ and shown in the CLOCK
section. A warning occurs when the chosen clock master fails. A caution is displayed when a routed
signal is out of sync. A caution notification is displayed when a signal is present, but not in sync and not
routed. A good notification is displayed when a signal is present and in sync, but not routed or chosen as
clock master. A confirmation is shown when the signal is present and either chosen as master or routed
and in sync.

On the standby screen, the two possible notifications are not shown. Those signals are not



11.2. Master Clock

relevant to the current device state.

In its the default state, the AVB Tool uses an internal clock signal (master). This means that any
connected device must synchronize to it (slave).

Alternatively, one of the digital inputs (word clock, MADI optical, MADI coaxial, and each of the four AVB
streams) can be chosen as clock reference. This activates SteadyClock™ FS, a technology that extracts a
low jitter clock signal from the incoming signal.

Intelligent Clock Control (ICC) automatically changes the clock source when the chosen master clock
fails. Using the feedback of SyncCheck™, the AVB Tool will change to another source signal that is in
sync, maintaining the slave mode and current sample rate. If no other source is available, the device will
fall back to its internal clock until the chosen master has recovered. Due to the excellent performance of
RME’s clock technology, disconnection and re-connection of a master clock is likely to be performed
without losing a sample in the outgoing audio signal.

ICC switches the clock source between word clock, MADI optical, MADI coaxial, and
internal, seamlessly, when the MADI optical, coaxial or word clock inputs fail and the other



port is locked - or to internal. ICC will not fall back to an AVB sync source and also will not
affect a chosen AVB master clock.

11.2.1. Selecting a Master Clock

To configure the clock master on the device:

1. Enter the CLOCK section (see Section 2.3, “Controlling the device”).

11. CLOCK Section | 54

RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

2. Push first button. Two blue arrows are shown to indicate that the encoder can now be used to change
the current setting.

3. Rotate the encoder until the preferred clock source is shown.

4. Push the encoder again to activate the setting.

11.3. Sample Rates Overview

The AVB Tool supports the following sample rates:

Supported sample rates

Single speed 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz

Double speed 88.2 kHz, 96 kHz

Quad speed 176.4 kHz, 192 kHz

If the device is clock master, these rates always correspond to the actual sample rate used.

11.3.1. Slave Mode

When the device is slave, certain deviations are automatically accepted to avoid interruption of the
outgoing audio signal when the sample rate changes. This is called Intelligent Clock Control (ICC). It also
handles deriving a sample rate of double or quad speed based on an incoming rate.

Intelligent Clock Control (ICC)

Input Clock at input Selected Sample Rate Resulting Sample Rate

MADI 44.1 44.1 44.1

MADI 44.1 48 44.1 with warning

MADI 44.1 88.2 88.2

MADI 44.1 96 88.2 with warning

MADI 44.1 176.4 176.4

MADI 44.1 192 176.4 with warning

MADI 48 44.1 48 with warning

MADI 48 48 48

MADI 48 88.2 96 with warning

MADI 48 96 96

MADI 48 176.4 192 with warning

MADI 48 192 192

MADI 96k 88.2 44.1 warning (no sync)

MADI 96k 88.2 48 warning (no sync)

MADI 96k 88.2 88.2 88.2

MADI 96k 88.2 96 88.2 with warning

MADI 96k 88.2 176.4 warning (no sync)

MADI 96k 88.2 192 warning (no sync)

MADI 96k 96 44.1 warning (no sync)

MADI 96k 96 48 warning (no sync)

MADI 96k 96 88.2 96 with warning

55 | 11.3. Sample Rates Overview

RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

MADI 96k 96 96 96

MADI 96k 96 176.4 warning (no sync)

MADI 96k 96 192 warning (no sync)

Word Clock 44.1 44.1 44.1

Word Clock 44.1 48 44.1 (with warning)

Word Clock 44.1, 88.2 88.2 88.2

Word Clock 44.1, 88.2 96 88.2 with warning

Word Clock 44.1, 88.2, 176.4 176.4 176.4

Word Clock 44.1, 88.2, 176.4 192 176.4 with warning

Word Clock 48 44.1 48 with warning

Word Clock 48 48 48

Word Clock 48, 96 88.2 96 with warning

Word Clock 48, 96 96 96

Word Clock 48, 96, 192 176.4 192 with warning

Word Clock 48, 96, 192 192 192

There is no ICC mechanism necessary for AVB; the device will always use the exact clock from the
corresponding AVB stream.

It is not recommended to sync devices with a higher sample rate than the current sample





rate, because two devices could choose different edges of the incoming clock signal.

ICC does not affect outgoing AVB streams. Outgoing AVB streams will always correspond
to the sample rate set in the CLOCK section. If the reference clock changes its frequency,
outgoing AVB streams will be interrupted.

11.3.2. Number of Channels

The supported number of channels per port or stream at different sample rates is shown in the following
table.

Supported number of audio channels per stream/port and direction at different sample rates

44.1 kHz 48 kHz 88.2 kHz 96 kHz 176.4 kHz 192 kHz

MADI 56 Ch 56 56 28 28 14 14

MADI 64 Ch 64 64 32 32 16 16

MADI 56 Ch +
96k

--- --- 28 28 --- ---

MADI 64 Ch +
96k

AVB 1-8 Ch
stream

AVB 12 Ch
stream

AVB 16 Ch
stream

--- --- 32 32 --- ---

1-8 1-8 1-8 1-8 1-8 1-8

12 12 12 12 --- ---

16 16 --- --- --- ---

11.3. Sample Rates Overview | 56

RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

Since there are two independent MADI ports, the total supported number of channels can
be multiplied by two. Since there are eight independent AVB streams, the total supported



number of channels can be multiplied by eight. The analog channel count remains identical
at all sample rates.

11.3.3. Selecting a Sample Rate

To configure the sample rate on the device:

1. Enter the CLOCK section (see Section 2.3, “Controlling the device”).

2. Use the button next to the current sample rate. Two blue arrows will appear to indicate that the
encoder can now be used to change the rate.

3. Rotate the encoder until the preferred sample rate is shown.

4. Push the encoder again to activate the setting.

11.3.4. Effects of Sample Rate Changes on Existing Routing

The AVB Tool saves one routing table per preset, regardless of sample rate. A change of sample rate or
MADI frame mode can reduce the number of input and output channels available for routing. This does
not alter the routing table. Any existing routing is hidden until another change of sample rate re-enables
the channels.

Example:

A routing is created at 96 kHz with 32 channels, sending the MADI coaxial Input 1-32 to optical MADI
Output 1-32. If the sample rate is now changed to 176.4 kHz and the 56 Ch frame is activated, only the
first 14 channels of MADI coaxial input are routed to the optical output. Switching the sample rate to 44.1
or 48 kHz will reveal the previous routing for 32 channels.

57 | 11.3. Sample Rates Overview

RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

11.4. Set Word Clock Output to Single Speed

At sample rates > 48 kHz, it may be necessary to synchronize two devices with a fraction of the actual
sample rate:

Sample Rate Word Clock Full Speed (default) Word Clock Single Speed (option)

88.2 kHz 88.2 kHz 44.1 kHz

96 kHz 96 kHz 48 kHz

176.4 kHz 176.4 kHz 44.1 kHz

192 kHz 192 kHz 48 kHz

To set the Word Clock output to single speed on the device:

1. Open the CLOCK section (see Section 2.3, “Controlling the device”).

2. Use the third button to toggle WCL 1x.

11.4. Set Word Clock Output to Single Speed | 58

RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

12. Annex

Trademarks and Copyright

All trademarks, registered or otherwise, are the property of their respective owners.
RME is a registered trademark of RME Intelligent Audio Solutions.
SyncCheck, SteadyClock, ICC, Intelligent Clock Control and Digiface are trademarks of RME Intelligent
Audio Solutions.
Microsoft, Windows, Windows 7/8/10 are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corp.
Apple and macOS are registered trademarks of Apple Inc.

Copyright © 2020 m2lab Ltd.

This manual is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0
International License [http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/].

59 | 12. Annex

Glossary

96k frame

MADI sources with a sample rate of 88.2kHz or 96kHz can be configured to use the so-called 96k
frame. If this frame is used, a sample rate of 88.2 or 96 kHz can be detected on the receiver side

automatically. When it is not used, or when higher sample rates are used, the receiver must always
be configured to the correct factor (x2, x4) since there is no other mechanism in MADI that allows
automatic detection.

AVB

Audio Video Bridging (AVB) is a common name for the set of technical standards developed by the
Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Audio Video Bridging Task Group of the
IEEE 802.1 standards committee.

AVDECC

IEEE standard for device discovery and control. A protocol that is used by manufacturers to
control various settings of AVB endpoints.

AVDECC Controller

RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

A software that discovers AVB entities and allows the user to access their settings and connect
them. Different AVDECC Controllers from different vendors can be used at the same time in the
same network.

AVB talker

An AVB endpoint that streams audio to one or more listeners.

AVB listener

An AVB endpoint that receives an audio stream from a talker.

DHCP server

A DHCP Server hands out IP addresses to network devices. Every consumer oriented WiFi Router
has a default DHCP Server handing out private addresses, usually 192.168.0.x. The IP address of a
network device must be known in order to communicate with it on Layer 3.

MADI

Multichannel Digital Audio Interface as defined in the AES 10 standard. Used to receive and
transmit up to 64 uncompressed audio channels over coaxial or fibre optic connection.

Master clock

Every digital audio transmission requires a clock which allows sender and receiver to be
synchronized. When two or more devices are connected, one device is configured to be the 'clock
master' (clock source: internal). All other devices are configured to be be 'slaves'. Synchronization
can either be established by dedicated cabling (word clock, 75 ohms coaxial cable), or by
recreating the clock from an incoming digital audio signal such as MADI or an AVB stream.

Word Clock

An electrical square wave signal transported over coaxial 75 Ohm terminated cables. It is used to
synchronize the receiving device (slave, word clock input) to the sending device (master, word
clock output).

Glossary | 60

RME AVB Tool User’s Guide

CE Compliance

This device has been tested and found to comply with the limits of the European Council Directive on the
approximation of the laws of the member states relating to electromagnetic compatibility according to
RL2014/30/EU, and European Low Voltage Directive RL2014/35/EU.

FCC Compliance

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
(1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference
received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

WARNING: Changes or modifications to this unit not expressly approved by the party responsible for
compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device,
pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against
harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio
frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful
interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in
a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television
reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to
correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.

• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is
connected.

• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

Shielded cables must be used with this unit to ensure compliance with the Class B FCC limits.

Responsible Party in USA: Synthax United States, 6600 NW 16th Street, Suite 10, Ft Lauderdale, FL 33313
T.:754.206.4220

Trade Name: RME, Model Number: AVB Tool

Note on Disposal

According to the guide line RL2002/96/EG (WEEE – Directive on Waste Electrical and Electronic
Equipment), valid for all european countries, this product has to be recycled at the end of its lifetime. In
case a disposal of electronic waste is not possible, the recycling can also be done by Scheck Audio
GmbH, the manufacturer of this device.

For this the device has to be sent free to the door to:

Scheck Audio GmbH, 3. Industriestr. 5, 68804 Altlussheim, Germany.

Shipments not prepaid will be rejected and returned on the original sender’s costs.

61 | Glossary