RME EDITION User manual
User's Guide
24 Bit / 192 kHz 9
SteadyClock
Babyface
Portable USB Audio at its best!
™
SyncCheck™
TotalMix
™
USB 2.0 Digital I/O System
22 Channels Analog / ADAT / SPDIF Interface
24 Bit / 192 kHz Digital Audio
20 x 12 Matrix Router
MIDI I/O
MIDI Remote Control
Stand-Alone Operation
Class Compliant Operation
General
1 Introduction ...............................................................6
2 Package Contents.....................................................6
3 System Requirements ..............................................6
4 Brief Description and Characteristics.....................6
5 First Usage - Quick Start
5.1 Connectors – Controls – Display ............................7
5.2 Quick Start ..............................................................9
Installation and Operation - Windows
6 Hardware Installation..............................................12
7 Driver and Firmware
7.1 Driver Installation .....................................................12
7.2 De-installing the Drivers...........................................13
7.3 Firmware Update .....................................................13
8 Configuring the Babyface
8.1 Settings Dialog – General ........................................14
8.2 Settings Dialog – Pitch .............................................16
9 Operation and Usage
9.1 Playback...................................................................17
9.2 DVD Playback (AC-3 / DTS) ....................................18
9.3 Notes on WDM.........................................................19
9.4 Channel Count under WDM.....................................20
9.5 Multi-client Operation ...............................................20
9.6 Analog Recording.....................................................21
9.7 Digital Recording......................................................21
9.8 Digital Connections ..................................................22
9.9 Clock Modes - Synchronization ...............................23
10 Operation under ASIO
10.1 General ................................................................24
10.2 Channel Count under ASIO .................................24
10.3 Known Problems ..................................................25
11 Using more than one Babyface .............................25
12 DIGICheck Windows ............................................... 26
13 Hotline – Troubleshooting......................................27
Installation and Operation - Mac OS X
14 Hardware Installation..............................................30
15 Driver and Firmware
15.1 Driver Installation .................................................30
15.2 De-installing the Drivers.......................................30
15.3 Firmware Update..................................................31
16 Configuring the Babyface
16.1 Settings Dialog – General ....................................31
16.2 Clock Modes - Synchronization ...........................33
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17 Mac OS X FAQ
17.1 MIDI doesn't work ................................................ 34
17.2 Repairing Disk Permissions................................. 34
17.3 Supported Sample Rates..................................... 34
17.4 Channel Count under Core Audio ....................... 34
17.5 Various Information.............................................. 35
18 Using more than one Babyface............................. 35
19 DIGICheck Mac........................................................ 36
20 Hotline – Troubleshooting ..................................... 37
TotalMix FX
21 TotalMix: Routing and Monitoring
21.1 Overview .............................................................. 40
21.2 The User Interface ............................................... 42
21.3 The Channels....................................................... 43
Settings.............................................................. 45
Equalizer ........................................................... 46
21.4 Section Control Room.......................................... 48
21.5 The Control Strip.................................................. 49
View Options .....................................................50
Channel Layout ................................................. 50
Scroll Location Markers..................................... 51
Snapshots - Groups ..........................................52
21.6 Reverb and Echo ................................................. 53
21.7 Preferences.......................................................... 56
21.7.1 Store Setting for (Windows only) ................. 57
21.8 Settings ................................................................ 57
21.8.1 Mixer Page................................................... 57
21.8.2 MIDI Page .................................................... 58
21.8.3 OSC Page.................................................... 59
21.8.4 Aux Devices ................................................. 60
21.9 Hotkeys and Usage .............................................61
21.10 Menu Options....................................................... 62
22 The Matrix
22.1 Overview .............................................................. 63
22.2 The User Interface ...............................................63
22.3 Usage................................................................... 63
23 Tips and Tricks
23.1 ASIO Direct Monitoring (Windows) ...................... 64
23.2 Copy a Submix..................................................... 64
23.3 Delete a Submix................................................... 64
23.4 Doubling the Output Signal .................................. 64
23.5 Recording a Submix - Loopback ......................... 65
23.6 MS Processing ..................................................... 66
24 MIDI Remote Control
24.1 Overview .............................................................. 67
24.2 Mapping ...............................................................68
24.3 Setup.................................................................... 68
24.4 Operation .............................................................68
24.5 MIDI Control ......................................................... 69
24.6 Loopback Detection ............................................. 70
24.7 OSC (Open Sound Control)................................. 70
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Technical Reference
25 Technical Specifications
25.1 Analog ..................................................................72
25.2 MIDI......................................................................72
25.3 Digital ...................................................................73
25.4 Digital Inputs ........................................................73
25.5 Digital Outputs......................................................73
25.6 General ................................................................73
26 Technical Background
26.1 Lock and SyncCheck ...........................................74
26.2 Latency and Monitoring........................................75
26.3 USB Audio............................................................76
26.4 DS – Double Speed .............................................77
26.5 QS – Quad Speed................................................77
26.6 Noise Level in DS / QS Mode .............................. 78
26.7 SteadyClock ......................................................... 78
27 Diagrams
27.1 Block Diagram Babyface......................................79
27.2 Connector Pinouts................................................80
Stand-Alone and Class Compliant Modus
28 History and General Remarks................................82
29 System Requirements ............................................83
30 Operation .................................................................83
30.1 Useful Hints ..........................................................83
30.2 Class Compliant under Windows/Mac OS X .......84
31 Supported Inputs and Outputs
31.1 Class Compliant Mode .........................................86
31.2 Stand-Alone Mode ...............................................86
32 Operation at the Unit...............................................87
33 Application Examples Stand-Alone Mode............88
34 Useful Notes ............................................................89
Miscellaneous
35 Accessories.............................................................92
36 Warranty...................................................................92
37 Appendix.................................................................. 93
38 Declaration of Conformity......................................94
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User's Guide Babyface © RME
User's Guide
Babyface
General
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1. Introduction
Thank you for choosing the RME Babyface. This unique audio system is capable of transferring
analog and digital audio data directly to Windows and Mac computers. The latest Plug and Play
technology guarantees a simple installation, even for the inexperienced user. Numerous unique
features and well thought-out configuration dialog puts the Babyface at the very top of the range
of computer-based audio interfaces.
The package contains drivers for Windows XP / Vista / 7 / 8 and Mac OS X x86 (Intel).
Our high-performance philosophy guarantees maximum system performance by executing as
many functions as possible not in the driver (i.e. the CPU), but within the audio hardware.
2. Package Contents
• Babyface
• Cable USB 2.0 with double power connector
• Breakout cable XLR / TRS / DIN
• D-sub extension cable 1.3m (4.3 ft)
• Carrying bag, grey mesh
• Manual
• RME Driver CD
3. System Requirements
• Windows XP SP2 or up, Intel Mac OS X (10.6 or up)
• 1 USB 2.0 port
• Computer with at least Pentium Core 2 Duo CPU
4. Brief Description and Characteristics
• All settings can be changed in real-time
• Buffer sizes/latencies from 48 up to 8192 samples selectable
• 4 channels 96 kHz/24 bit Record/Playback via ADAT optical (S/MUX)
• Clock modes slave and master
• Automatic and intelligent master/slave clock control
• Unsurpassed Bitclock PLL (audio synchronization) in ADAT mode
• SteadyClock: Jitter-immune, super-stable digital clock
• DDS technology for free setting of the sample rate
• SyncAlign guarantees sample aligned and never swapping channels
• SyncCheck tests and reports the synchronization status of input signals
• TotalMix for latency-free submixes and perfect ASIO Direct Monitoring
• TotalMix: 264 channel mixer with 46 bit internal resolution
• TotalMix FX: 3-band EQ, Low Cut, Reverb, Echo
• 1 x MIDI I/O, 16 channels high-speed MIDI
• 2 digitally controlled microphone inputs in reference quality
• 2 balanced line outputs, level +15 dBu
• 1 x headphone output
• DIGICheck DSP: Level meter in hardware, peak- and RMS calculation
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5. First Usage – Quick Start
5.1 Connectors – Controls – Display
The top of the Babyface features a rotary encoder with push switch function, 2 keys, 2 LED
bands and 5 status LEDs.
The two LED bands show the current gain, the input or output level, or indicate the channel to
be set, all dependent on the current mode. The lowest LED signals phantom power (+48 V,
orange), the highest one overload (Clip, red).
The rotary encoder is used to change various parameters directly at the unit. First the left key
Select is used to select the mode which is then displayed by the Status LEDs:
¾ Input: Setting the gain of the analog stereo inputs. A
push on the encoder changes between left, right or
both.
¾ Output: Setting the output level of the analog outputs
1/2 at the breakout cable. A push on the encoder
activates Dim for the Main Out defined in TotalMix FX
(default: Analog 1/2).
¾ Phones: Setting the output levels of the analog
outputs 3/4. A push on the encoder activates Dim for
the Main Out defined in TotalMix FX (default: Analog
1/2).
¾ Sync: Synchronisation indicator for the digital optical
input (SPDIF, ADAT). Flashes when the signal has
been detected but is not fully synchronous. See also
chapter 9.9 / 16.2, Clock Modes - Synchronisation.
The key Recall is used to store and load a specific listening volume for the Main Out (default:
Analog 1/2) defined in TotalMix FX. Pushing the knob for 2 seconds stores the current setting. If
the volume (output level) had been changed a quick hit on the Recall key will restore the former
value.
The right side of the Babyface has an instrument input and a
headphones output.
The analog input 2 can be switched in TotalMix between line (low
impedance, balanced, at the breakout cable) and instrument (high
impedance, unbalanced, TRS jack at the unit). See Settings menu
of input channel 2.
The analog outputs Phones (channels 3/4) are available at the breakout cable and on the right
side of the unit. The connectors are not separated electrically. When connecting two headphones the volume might be reduced. The low impedance and unbalanced output signal is – in
terms of quality – identical to the ones at the line outputs, but limited to +7 dBu.
In case the phones output is to be used as line output, usually an adapter TRS plug to RCA
phono plugs, or TRS plug to TS plugs is required. More on cable codes and pinouts can be
found in chapter 27.2.
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The short circuit protected, low impedance line outputs do not operate servo balanced!
When connecting unbalanced equipment, make sure pin 3 of the XLR output is not connected. A connection to ground will cause a decreased THD (higher distortion) and increased power consumption!
The Babyface has two analog microphone inputs that can operate as line inputs with levels up
to +12 dBu, when set to 0 dB gain. The electronic input stage uses a servo balanced design
which handles unbalanced and balanced signals correctly, automatically adjusting the level
reference.
When using unbalanced cables with the XLR breakout cable: be sure to connect the 'ring'
contact of a stereo TRS jack, and pin 3 of a XLR jack, to ground. Otherwise noise may occur, caused by the unconnected negative input of the balanced input.
The rear of the Babyface has an
optical input and output, a power
supply connector, a USB socket
and a 15-pin D-sub connector for
the included breakout cable.
Optical Out USB 2.0
Breakout cable Optical In Power
Optical I/O (TOSLINK): The unit automatically detects SPDIF or ADAT input signals. The opti-
cal output can operate as ADAT or SPDIF output, depending on the current setting in the Settings dialog.
USB 2.0: USB socket for connection to the computer.
Socket for power connection. Unburdens the computer’s power supply, or ensures a stable
power supply, in case it proves to be insufficient when taken from the computer. If the power
supply via standard USB cables is not sufficient the included special dual power cable can also
be used.
The included breakout cable provides these connections:
¾ Microphone/Line In: 2 x XLR, balanced
¾ Line Out: 2 x XLR, balanced
¾ Phones Output: 1 x stereo TRS 1/4"
(6.3 mm), unbalanced. Can also be
used as additional line output.
¾ MIDI I/O: One MIDI input and output via 5-pin DIN connector.
If the breakout cable turns your desktop into a mess the included extension cable comes to the
rescue. It is simply inserted between the breakout cable and the D-sub connector of the Babyface. Then both breakout cable and all cables connected to it will be out of sight, without decreasing the Babyface’s technical specifications or performance.
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5.2 Quick Start
After the driver installation (chapter 7 / 15), connect the inputs to the analog signal source.
Mount the included breakout cable with or without the extension cable to the D-sub connector of
the Babyface.
The analog input sensitivity can be changed at the unit (Select In) or in TotalMix (Settings,
Gain), assuring the highest signal to noise ratio will be achieved. Also try to achieve an optimum
input level by adjusting the source itself. Raise the source’s output level until the peak level
meters in TotalMix reach about –3 dB.
The analog line inputs of the Babyface can be used with +4 dBu and -10 dBV signals. The electronic input stage can handle balanced (XLR, TRS jacks) and unbalanced (TS jacks) input signals correctly.
The Babyface's digital output supports the formats SPDIF and ADAT optical.
On the analog playback side (the DA side), an adjustment of the analog output level can be
done by the rotary encoder (Select Out or Phones), or in TotalMix FX.
The output signal of channels 3/4, Phones, is also available at the unit. The output level can be
set freely using the rotary encoder. This output is a low impedance type, which can also be
used to connect headphones.
TotalMix FX remembers all settings, and loads these automatically when the Babyface drivers
are loaded.
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User's Guide Babyface © RME
User's Guide
Babyface
Installation and Operation – Windows
User's Guide Babyface © RME
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6. Hardware Installation
Connect computer and Babyface with the supplied USB cable. Turn on the computer. That‘s it.
To simplify installation it is recommended to first install the drivers before the unit is connected
to the computer. But it will also work the other way round.
In case the level meters of the Babyface run up during power-on: the unit is in Class Compli-
ance mode and will not be working under Windows. Remove the cable, hold Select and Recall
button down, plug-in the USB cable. This procedure changes between the CC and normal
mode. When the LED Level meters don’t run up during power-on the normal mode is active.
Chapter 26.3 explains how to find the ideal USB port.
7. Driver and Firmware
7.1 Driver Installation
Insert the RME Driver CD into your CD-ROM drive. The driver installer is located in the directory
\Babyface. Start rmeinstaller.exe and follow the instructions of the installer. After installation
connect computer and Babyface. Windows detects the new hardware as Babyface and installs
the drivers automatically.
After a reboot, the icons of TotalMix FX and Settings dialog appear in
the notification area.
Driver Updates do not require to remove the existing drivers. Simply install the new driver over
the existing one.
Possible reasons why a Babyface is not found automatically:
• The USB port is not active in the system (check the Device Manager)
• The USB cable is not, or not correctly inserted into the socket
• The Babyface does not receive any or not enough power. In this case please use the in-
cluded dual cable. Plug both connectors from one end of the cable into the computer. If the
Babyface starts correctly the lowest green LED in the left band will flash, the In LED is constantly lit, the lowest one in the right band too.
•
The Babyface is in Class Compliant mode. See above.
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7.2 De-installing the Drivers
A de-installation of the driver files is not necessary – and not supported by Windows anyway.
Thanks to full Plug & Play support, the driver files will not be loaded after the hardware has
been removed. If desired these files can then be deleted manually.
Unfortunately Windows Plug & Play methods do not cover the additional autorun entries of TotalMix, the Settings dialog, and the registration of the ASIO driver. These entries can be removed from the registry by a software de-installation request. This request can be found (like all
de-installation entries) in Control Panel, Add or Remove Programs (Vista/7: Programs and Fea-
tures). Click on the entry 'RME Fireface USB'.
7.3 Firmware Update
The Flash Update Tool updates the firmware of the Babyface to the latest version. It requires an
already installed driver.
Start the program fut_usb.exe. The Flash Update
Tool displays the current revision of the Babyface's
firmware, and whether it needs an update or not. If
so, then simply press the 'Update' button. A
progress bar will indicate when the flash process is
finished (Verify Ok).
After the update the Babyface needs to be reset.
This is done by powering down the Babyface for a
short time.
Attention
for less than 5 seconds, because Windows
completely unloads the driver, which takes some
time to finish.
A reboot of the computer is not necessary.
When the update unexpectedly fails (status: failure), the unit's Safety BIOS will be used from
the next boot on, the unit stays fully functional. The flash process should then be tried again.
: the Babyface should not be switched off
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8. Configuring the Babyface
8.1 Settings Dialog - General
Configuration of the Babyface is done via its own settings dialog. The panel 'Settings' can be
opened:
• by clicking on the fire symbol in the Task Bar's notification area
The mixer of the Babyface (TotalMix) can be opened:
• by clicking on the double arrow symbol in the Task Bar's notification area
The hardware of the Babyface offers a number of helpful, well thought-out practical functions
and options which affect how the card operates - it can be configured to suit many different
requirements.
The following is available in the Settings dialog:
• Latency
• Operation of the DSP
• Configuration of the digital I/O
• Current sample rate
• Synchronization behaviour
• State of input and output
Any changes made in the
Settings dialog are applied
immediately - confirmation (e.g.
by clicking on OK or exiting the
dialog) is not required.
However, settings should not be
changed during playback or
record if it can be avoided, as
this can cause unwanted noises.
Also, please note that even in
'Stop' mode, several programs
keep the recording and playback
devices open, which means that
any new settings might not be
applied immediately.
The tab About includes
information about the current
driver and firmware version plus
two more options:
Lock Registry
Default: off. Checking this option brings up a dialog to enter a password. Changes in the Settings dialog are no longer written to the registry. As the settings are always loaded from the
registry when starting the computer, this method provides an easy way to define an initial state
of the Babyface.
Enable MMCSS for ASIO activates support with higher priority for the ASIO driver. Note: At this
time, activating this option seems to be useful only with the latest Cubase/Nuendo at higher
load. With other software this option can decrease performance. The change becomes active
after an ASIO reset. Therefore it is easy to quickly check which setting works better.
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Buffer Size
The setting Buffer Size determines the latency between incoming and outgoing ASIO and WDM
data, as well as affecting system stability (see chapter 9.1 / 10).
Errors does not refer to buffer errors, but USB transmission errors. The display will be reset on
any start of a playback/record. More information can be found in chapter 26.3.
Options
DSP – EQ for Record
Switches the 3-band EQ and Low Cut of all input channels into the recording path. In case
Loopback has been activated the EQ and Low Cut of the Output channel is placed into the recording path. See also chapter 23.5.
Optical Out
The optical TOSLINK output can operate as ADAT or SPDIF output. The Channel Status is
fixed to Consumer state.
: The optical input detects the incoming format automatically.
Note
SPDIF In
TMS activates the transmission of Channel Status data and Track Marker information from the
SPDIF input signal.
Clock Mode
Sample Rate
Sets the currently used sample rate. Offers a central and comfortable way of configuring the
sample rate of all WDM devices to the same value, as since Vista the audio software is no
longer allowed to set the sample rate. However, an ASIO program can still set the sample rate
by itself.
During record/playback the selection is greyed out, so no change is possible.
Clock Source
The unit can be configured to use its own clock (Internal = Master) or the digital input signal
(Optical = Slave). If the external source isn't available (Input Status No Lock), the unit will
change to the internal clock. The current clock source is displayed as Current.
Pitch
More information on Pitch is available in chapter 8.2.
Input Status
Indicates presence of a valid signal at the optical input (Lock, No Lock) and whether the signal
is synchronous (Sync). The third column shows the sample frequency detected by the hardware
(coarse recognition, 32 kHz, 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz etc.). In Clock Mode the clock reference is
shown. See also chapter 26.1.
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8.2 Settings Dialog - Pitch
Usually soundcards and audio interfaces generate their internal clock (master mode) by a
quartz. Therefore the internal clock can be set to 44.1 kHz or 48 kHz, but not to a value in between. SteadyClock, RME's sensational Low Jitter Clock System, is based on a Direct Digital
Synthesizer (DDS). This superior circuitry can generate nearly any frequency with highest precision.
DDS has been implemented into the Babyface with regard to the needs of professional video
applications, as well as to maximum flexibility. The section Pitch includes both a list of typical
video frequencies (so called pull up/pull down at 0.1% and 4%) and a fader to freely change the
basic sample rate in steps of 1 Hz (!) over a range of +/- 5%.
The Pitch function requires the Babyface to be in clock mode Master (Internal)! The frequency setting will only be applied to this one specific Babyface!
Changing the sample rate during record/playback often results in a loss of audio, or brings
up warning messages of the audio software. Therefore the desired sample rate should be
set at least coarsely before starting the software.
Coarse
Coarse modification in steps of 50 Hz
is done by clicking with the mouse to
the left and right of the fader knob.
Fine
Fine modification in steps of 1 Hz is
done by using the left/right cursor
keys.
Reset
Ctrl key plus left mouse click.
Application examples
Pitch allows for a simultaneous change of speed and tune during record and playback. From
alignment to other sources up to creative effects – everything is possible.
Pitch enables you to intentionally de-tune the complete DAW. This way, the DAW can match
instruments which have a wrong or unchangeable tuning.
Pitch allows for the change of the sample rate of all WDM devices at the same time. Since Vista
this is no longer possible via the audio program, thus requires a manual reconfiguration of all
WDM devices. Changing the sample rate from the Settings dialog solves this problem. As the
change within the system requires some time, record/playback should not be started immediately, but only after at least 5 seconds after a change.
Tip: the current CPU load can be used to determine if the audio subsystem has finished the re-
configuration.
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9. Operation and Usage
9.1 Playback
In the audio application being used, Babyface must be selected as output device. It can often
be found in the Options, Preferences or Settings menus, as Playback Device, Audio Devices,
Audio etc.
We recommend switching all system sounds off (via >Control Panel /Sound<). Also Babyface
should not be the Preferred Device for playback, as this could cause loss of synchronization
and unwanted noises. If you feel you cannot do without system sounds, you should consider
using the on-board sound device or buying a cheap Blaster clone and select this as Preferred
Device in >Control Panel /Multimedia /Audio< or >Control Panel /Sound /Playback<.
The screenshot shows a typical configuration dialog. After selecting a device, audio data is sent
to an analog or digital port, depending on which has been selected as playback device.
Increasing the number and/or size of audio buffers may prevent the audio signal from breaking
up, but also increases latency i.e. output is delayed. For synchronized playback of audio and
MIDI (or similar), be sure to activate the checkbox ‘Get position from audio driver’.
Note on Windows Vista/7/8
Since Vista the audio application can no longer control the sample rate under WDM. Instead the
user has to work himself through numerous settings (up to 32 with a MADI card!), and to set the
sample rate to the same value per stereo device.
Therefore the driver of the Babyface includes a workaround: the sample rate can be set globally
for all WDM devices within the Settings dialog, see chapter 8.1.
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9.2 DVD-Playback (AC-3/DTS)
AC-3 / DTS
When using popular DVD software players like WinDVD and PowerDVD, their audio data
stream can be sent to any AC-3/DTS capable receiver using the Babyface's SPDIF output. For
this to work, the WDM SPDIF device of the Babyface has to be selected in >Control Panel/
Sounds and Multimedia/ Audio< or >Control Panel/ Sound/Playback<. Also check 'use preferred
device only'.
The DVD software's audio properties now show the options 'SPDIF Out' or similar. When selecting it, the software will transfer the non-decoded digital multichannel data stream to the Babyface.
: This 'SPDIF' signal sounds like chopped noise at highest level. Try to avoid mixing and
Note
routing the signal to your loudspeakers, as they might get damaged.
Multichannel
PowerDVD and WinDVD can also operate as software decoder, sending a DVD's multichannel
data stream directly to the analog outputs of the Babyface. For this to work select the WDM
playback device ’Loudspeaker’ of the Babyface in
XP: >Control Panel/ Sounds and Multimedia/ Audio<, and check 'Use only default devices'.
Additionally the loudspeaker setup, found under >Volume/ Speaker Settings/ Advanced< has to
be changed from Stereo to 5.1 Surround.
Vista/7/8: >Control Panel/ Sound/ Playback < as ‘Standard’. Additionally the loudspeaker setup,
found under >Configuration<, has to be changed from Stereo to 5.1 Surround.
PowerDVD's and WinDVD's audio properties now list several multichannel modes. If one of
these is selected, the software sends the decoded analog multichannel data to the Babyface.
TotalMix can then be used to play back via any desired output channels.
The typical channel assignment for surround playback is:
1 - Left
2 - Right
3 - Center
4 - LFE (Low Frequency Effects)
5 - SL (Surround Left)
6 - SR (Surround Right)
Note 1
mendations, as professional interfaces should not be disturbed by system events. Make sure to
re-assign the selection after usage or to disable any system sounds (tab Sounds, scheme 'No
audio').
Note 2
AutoSync and/or word clock, the playback speed and pitch follows the incoming clock signal.
: Selecting the Babyface to be used as system playback device is against our recom-
: The DVD player will be synced backwards from the Babyface. This means when using
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9.3 Notes on WDM
The driver offers one WDM streaming device per stereo pair, like Analog 3+4 (Babyface).
WDM Streaming is Microsoft's current driver and audio system, directly embedded into the operating system. WDM Streaming is hardly usable for professional music purposes, as all data is
processed by the so called Kernel Mixer, causing a latency of at least 30 ms. Additionally, WDM
can perform sample rate conversions unnoticed, cause offsets between record and playback
data, block channels unintentionally and much more.
Several programs do not offer any direct device selection. Instead they use the playback device
selected in Windows under
XP: <Control Panel/ Sounds and Multimedia/ Audio>
Vista/7/8: <Control Panel/ Sound/ Playback>
The program Sonar from Cakewalk is unique in many ways. Sonar uses the so called WDM
Kernel Streaming, bypassing the WDM mixer, thus achieves a similar performance to ASIO
(see below).
Because of the driver's multichannel streaming ability, Sonar not only finds the stereo device
mentioned above, but also the 8-channel interleaved devices, and adds the channel number at
the end:
Babyface Analog (1+2) 1/2 is the first stereo device
Babyface Analog (3+4) is the next stereo device
Babyface Analog (1+2) 3/4 are the channels 3/4 of the first 8-channel interleaved device.
It is not recommended to use these special interleaved devices. Also it is not possible to use
one stereo channel twice (the basic and the interleaved device).
Multi-Channel using WDM
The WDM Streaming device Loudspeaker (Analog 1+2) of the RME driver can operate as usual
stereo device, or as up to 8-channel device.
An 8-channel playback using the Windows Media Player requires the speaker setup 7.1 Sur-
round. Configure as follows:
XP: >Control Panel /Sounds and Multimedia /Audio /Volume /Speaker Settings /Advanced <
Vista/7/8: >Control Panel /Sound /Playback /Loudspeaker /Configure <
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9.4 Channel Count under WDM
The Babyface’s ADAT optical interface offers sample rates of up to 192 kHz using a standard
ADAT recorder. For this to work single-channel data is spread to two or four ADAT channels
using the Sample Multiplexing technique. This reduces the number of available ADAT channels
from 8 to 4 or 2 per ADAT port.
Whenever the Babyface changes into Double Speed (88.2/96 kHz) or Quad Speed mode
(176.4/192 kHz) all devices no longer available vanish automatically.
WDM Stereo device Double Speed Quad Speed
Babyface Analog (1+2) Babyface Analog (1+2) Babyface Analog (1+2)
Babyface Analog (3+4) Babyface Analog (3+4) Babyface Analog (3+4)
Babyface AS (1+2) Babyface AS (1+2) Babyface AS (1+2)
Babyface ADAT (3+4) Babyface ADAT (3+4) Babyface ADAT (3+4)
Babyface ADAT (5+6) Babyface ADAT (5+6) Babyface ADAT (5+6)
Babyface ADAT (7+8) Babyface ADAT (7+8) Babyface ADAT (7+8)
Note: Under Vista/7/8 the analog outputs 1/2 show up as Loudspeaker.
9.5 Multi-client Operation
RME audio interfaces support multi-client operation. Several programs can be used at the same
time. Since driver version 0.981 the formats ASIO and WDM can even be used on the same
playback channels simultaneously. As WDM uses a real-time sample rate conversion (ASIO
does not), all active ASIO software has to use the same sample rate.
However, a better overview is maintained by using the channels exclusively. This is no limitation
at all, because TotalMix allows for any output routing, and therefore a playback of multiple software on the same hardware outputs.
Inputs can be used from an unlimited number of WDM and ASIO software at the same time, as
the driver simply sends the data to all applications simultaneously.
RME's sophisticated tool DIGICheck is an exception to this rule. It operates like an ASIO host,
using a special technique to access playback channels directly. Therefore DIGICheck is able to
analyse and display playback data from any software, no matter which format it uses.
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9.6 Analog Recording
For recordings via the analog inputs the corresponding record device has to be chosen (Babyface Analog (x+x)).
Channels 1 and 2 of the Babyface have digitally controlled microphone
preamps of the highest quality. The digital control offers a gain setting in
steps of 3 dB within a range of 9 dB to 60 dB. The configuration is done
either directly at the unit via the rotary encoder, or via the Settings panel
of the input channels 1 and 2 in TotalMix, with the knob Gain. The
current gain is displayed in dB beside the knob.
In the lower range the knob jumps from 9 dB to 0 dB. This useful
additional setting provides line signal compatibility at up to +12 dBu at
the microphone input.
Above the knob Gain the inputs can be set separately to provide 48V
phantom power at the XLR connectors. Phantom power is required for
condenser microphones.
Input channel 2 can be switched to the TRS jack on the right side of the
Babyface. The Hi-Z instrument input has an input impedance of 470
kOhm. The input gain is controlled by the same knob, but the gain range
now starts at +9 dB.
It often makes sense to monitor the input signal or send it directly to the output. This can be
done at zero latency using TotalMix (see chapter 21).
An automated control of real-time monitoring can be achieved by Steinberg’s ASIO protocol
with RME’s ASIO drivers and any ASIO 2.0 compatible program. When 'ASIO Direct Monitoring'
has been switched on, the input signal is routed in real-time to the output whenever a recording
is started (punch-in).
9.7 Digital Recording
Unlike analog soundcards which produce empty wave files (or noise) when no input signal is
present, digital interfaces always need a valid input signal to start recording.
Taking this into account, RME added a
comprehensive I/O signal status display to
the Babyface, showing sample frequency,
lock and sync status in the Settings dialog,
and a status LED directly at the unit.
The sample frequency shown in the Settings
dialog is useful as a quick display of the
current configuration of the unit and the
connected external equipment. If no sample
frequency is recognized, it will read ‘No Lock’.
This way, configuring any suitable audio application for digital recording is simple. After connection the Babyface displays the current and external sample frequency. This parameter can then
be changed in the application’s audio attributes (or similar) dialog.
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9.8 Digital Connections
ADAT
The ADAT optical input of the Babyface is fully compatible with all ADAT optical outputs. RME's
unsurpassed Bitclock PLL prevents clicks and drop outs even in extreme varipitch operation,
and guarantees a fast and low jitter lock to the digital input signal. A usual TOSLINK cable is
sufficient for connection. More information on Double Speed (S/MUX) can be found in chapter
26.4.
ADAT In
Interface for a device sending an ADAT signal to the Babyface. Carries the channels 1 to 8.
When receiving a Double Speed signal, this input carries the channels 1 to 4, at Quad Speed
the inputs 1 and 2.
ADAT Out
Interface for a device receiving an ADAT signal from the Babyface. Transmits channels 1 to 8.
When sending a Double Speed signal, this port carries channels 1 to 4, at Quad Speed the
channels 1 and 2.
: To use the optical output as ADAT port set the option Optical to ADAT in the Settings
Note
dialog.
SPDIF
The optical input automatically switches to SPDIF operation when such a signal is detected.
The audio information is then shown in TotalMix on the first two ADAT channels, AS 1 and AS
2.
Activating the option TMS in the Windows Settings dialog enables RME’s DIGICheck to analyze
the Channel Status of the input signal.
To send out SPDIF from the optical output, select the option Optical – SPDIF in the Settings
dialog. The output signal in TotalMix has to be present on the first ADAT channels, AS 1+2.
MIDI
Babyface offers one MIDI I/O via two 5-pin DIN jacks. The MIDI ports are added to the system
by the driver. Using MIDI capable software, these ports can be accessed under the name Baby-
face Midi. Using more than one Babyface, the operating system adds a consecutive number to
the port name, like Babyface MIDI (2) etc.
The MIDI ports support multi-client operation. A MIDI input signal can be received from several
programs at the same time. Even the MIDI output can be used by multiple programs simultaneously. However, due to the limited bandwidth of MIDI, this kind of application will often show
various problems.
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9.9 Clock Modes - Synchronization
In the digital world, all devices must be either Master (clock source) or Slave (clock receiver).
Whenever several devices are linked within a system, there must always be a single master
clock.
A digital system can only have one master! If the Babyface’s clock mode is set to 'Internal',
all other devices must be set to ‘Slave’.
The Babyface utilizes a very user-friendly, intelligent clock control, called AutoSync. Selecting
Optical as Clock Source, the system constantly scans the digital input for a valid signal. If any
valid signal is found, the Babyface switches from the internal quartz (Clock Mode – Current
Internal) to a clock extracted from the input signal (Clock Mode – Current ADAT or SPDIF). The
difference to a usual slave mode is that whenever the clock reference fails, the system will
automatically use its internal clock and operate in clock mode Master.
AutoSync guarantees that record and record-while-play will always work correctly. In certain
cases however, e.g. when the inputs and outputs of a DAT machine are connected directly to
the Babyface, AutoSync may cause feedback in the digital carrier, so synchronization breaks
down. To solve this problem switch the Babyface clock mode to Master (Clock Source – Internal).
In some situations changing the clock mode can not be avoided. Example: A CD player is connected to the SPDIF input. Try recording a few samples from the CD and you will be disappointed - few CD players can be synchronized. The samples will inevitably be corrupted, because the signal from the CD player is read with the clock from the Babyface, being out of sync.
In this case, the Clock Source should be set temporarily to SPDIF.
RME’s exclusive SyncCheck technology (first implemented in the Hammerfall) enables an easy
to use check and display of the current clock status. Input Status indicates whether there is a
valid signal (Lock, No Lock) for the optical input, or if there is a valid and synchronous signal
(Sync). In the field Clock Mode the clock reference is shown. See chapter 26.1.
Under WDM the Babyface will (has
to) set the sample rate. Therefore the
error shown to the right can occur. A
stable signal with a sample rate of 32
kHz is detected at the ADAT input
(Sync), but Windows audio had been
set to 44100 Hz before. The red color
of the text label signals the error
condition, and prompts the user to set
32000 Hz manually as sample rate.
Under ASIO the audio software sets
the sample rate, so that such an error
can not happen. If the input sample
rate is different then there will be no
Sync indication.
With RME’s AutoSync and SyncCheck, finally anyone can master this common source of error,
previously one of the most complex issues in the digital studio world.
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10. Operation under ASIO
10.1 General
Start the ASIO software and select ASIO Fireface USB as the audio I/O device or the audio
driver.
The Babyface supports ASIO Direct Monitoring (ADM).
The Babyface MIDI I/O can be used with both MME MIDI and DirectMusic MIDI.
10.2 Channel Count under ASIO
At a sample rate of 88.2 or 96 kHz, the ADAT optical input and output operates in S/MUX mode,
so the number of available channels is reduced from 8 to 4.
At a sample rate of 176.4 and 192 kHz, the ADAT optical input and output operates in S/MUX4
mode, so the number of available channels is limited to 2.
: When changing the sample rate range between Single, Double and Quad Speed the
Note
number of channels presented from the ASIO driver will change too. This may require a reset of
the I/O list in the audio software.
Single Speed Double Speed Quad Speed
Babyface Analog 1 to 4 Babyface Analog 1 to 4 Babyface Analog 1 to 4
Babyface AS 1 to 2 Babyface AS 1 to 2 Babyface AS 1 to 2
Babyface ADAT 3 to 4 Babyface ADAT 3 to 4 Babyface ADAT 3 to 4
Babyface ADAT 5 to 6 Babyface ADAT 5 to 6 Babyface ADAT 5 to 6
Babyface ADAT 7 to 8 Babyface ADAT 7 to 8 Babyface ADAT 7 to 8
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10.3 Known Problems
If a computer does not provide sufficient CPU-power and/or sufficient USB-bus transfer rates,
then drop outs, crackling and noise will appear. Such effects can be avoided by using a higher
buffer setting/latency in the Settings dialog of the Babyface. Furthermore PlugIns should be
deactivated temporarily to make sure they do not cause these problems.
More information can be found in chapter 26.3.
Another common source of trouble is incorrect synchronization. ASIO does not support asynchronous operation, which means that the input and output signals not only have to use the
same sample frequency, but also have to be in sync. All devices connected to the Babyface
must be properly configured for Full Duplex operation. As long as SyncCheck (in the Settings
dialog) only displays Lock instead of Sync, the devices have not been set up properly!
The same applies when using more than one Babyface or Fireface UC - they all have to be in
sync. Else a periodically repeated noise will be heard.
The Babyface supports ASIO Direct Monitoring (ADM). Please note that not all programs sup-
port ADM completely or error-free. The most often reported problem is the wrong behaviour of
panorama in a stereo channel.
In case of a drift between audio and MIDI, or in case of a fixed deviation (MIDI notes placed
close before or behind the correct position), the settings in Cubase/Nuendo have to be
changed. At the time of print the option 'Use System Timestamp' should be activated. The
Babyface supports both MME MIDI and DirectMusic MIDI. It depends on the used application
which one will work better.
11. Using more than one Babyface
The current driver supports up to three Babyface or Fireface UC. All units have to be in sync,
i.e. have to receive valid digital sync information.
• If one of the Babyfaces is set to clock mode Master, all others have to be set to clock mode
Slave, and have to be synced from the master, for example by feeding word clock. The
clock modes of all units have to be set up correctly in the Babyface Settings dialog.
• If all units are fed with a synchronous clock, i.e. all units show Sync in their Settings dialog,
all channels can be used at once. This is especially easy to handle under ASIO, as the
ASIO driver presents all units as one.
Note
: TotalMix is part of the hardware of each Babyface. Up to three mixers are available, but
these are separated and can't interchange data. Therefore a global mixer for all units is not
possible.
In real-world an operation of more than one Babyface makes no sense and is therefore not
actively supported by RME. The second unit would have to be synchronized using the optical
input. The result is an extension by only 2 analog record and 4 analog playback channels (plus 8
digital via ADAT Out). It makes much more sense to directly connect an 8-channel converter to
the ADAT I/O of one Babyface, adding full 8 channels of record and playback.
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12. DIGICheck Windows
The DIGICheck software is a unique utility developed for testing, measuring and analysing digital audio streams. Although this Windows software is fairly self-explanatory, it still includes a
comprehensive online help. DIGICheck 5.61 operates as multi-client ASIO host, therefore can
be used in parallel to any software, with both inputs and outputs (!). The following is a short
summary of the currently available functions:
• Level Meter. High precision 24-bit resolution, 2/8/12 channels. Application examples: Peak
level measurement, RMS level measurement, over-detection, phase correlation measurement, dynamic range and signal-to-noise ratios, RMS to peak difference (loudness), long
term peak measurement, input check. Oversampling mode for levels higher than 0 dBFS.
Supports visualization according to the K-System.
• Hardware Level Meter for Input, Playback and Output. Reference Level Meter freely con-
figurable, causing near zero CPU load, because calculated from the Babyface hardware.
• Vector Audio Scope. World wide unique Goniometer showing the typical afterglow of a
oscilloscope-tube. Includes Correlation meter and level meter.
• Surround Audio Scope. Professional Surround Level Meter with extended correlation
analysis, ITU weighting and ITU summing meter.
• Spectral Analyser. World wide unique 10-, 20- or 30-band display in analog bandpass filter
technology. 192 kHz-capable!
• Bit Statistics & Noise. Shows the true resolution of audio signals as well as errors and DC
offset. Includes Signal to Noise measurement in dB and dBA, plus DC measurement.
• Totalyser. Spectral Analyser, Level Meter and Vector Audio Scope in a single window.
• Channel Status Display. Detailed analysis and display of SPDIF and AES/EBU Channel
Status data.
• Global Record. Long-term recording of all channels at lowest system load.
• Completely multi-client. Open as many measurement windows as you like, on any chan-
nels and inputs or outputs!
To install DIGICheck, go to the \DIGICheck directory on the RME Driver CD and run setup.exe.
Follow the instructions prompted on the screen.
DIGICheck is constantly updated. The latest version is always available on our website
www.rme-audio.com, section Downloads / DIGICheck.
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13. Hotline – Troubleshooting
The newest information can always be found on our website www.rme-audio.com, section FAQ,
Latest Additions.
The input signal cannot be monitored in real-time
• ASIO Direct Monitoring has not been enabled within the DAW, and/or monitoring has been
disabled globally (TotalMix Options).
The 8 ADAT channels don’t seem to work
• The optical output has been switched to 'SPDIF'. As can be seen in the block diagram, all
channels and their assignments still exist, but the optical transmitter has been disconnected
from ADAT. The ADAT playback devices are still usable by routing and mixing them in TotalMix to other outputs.
Playback works, but record doesn’t
• Check that there is a valid signal at the input. If so, the current sample frequency is displayed in the Settings dialog.
• Check whether the Babyface has been selected as recording device in the audio application.
• Check whether the sample frequency set in the audio application (‘Recording properties’ or
similar) matches the input signal.
• Check that cables/devices have not been connected in a closed loop. If so, set the system’s
clock mode to Master.
Crackle during record or playback
• Increase the number and size of buffers in the ‘Settings’ dialog or in the application.
• Try different cables (coaxial or optical) to rule out any defects here.
• Check that cables/devices have not been connected in a closed loop. If so, set the system’s
clock mode to ‘Master’.
• Check the Settings dialog for displayed Errors.
Driver installation and Settings dialog/TotalMix work, but a playback or record is not possible
• While recognition and control of the device are low bandwidth applications, playback/record
needs the full USB transmission performance. Therefore, defective USB cables with limited
transmission bandwidth can cause such errors.
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User's Guide
Babyface
Installation and Operation – Mac OS X
User's Guide Babyface © RME
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