RME Fireface UC User manual
®
User's Guide
24 Bit / 192 kHz 9
SyncAlign
Fireface UC
Portable USB Audio at its best!
ZLM® SyncCheck®
TotalMix
™
SteadyClock
™
USB 2.0 Digital I/O System
8 + 8 + 2 Channels Analog / ADAT / SPDIF Interface
24 Bit / 192 kHz Digital Audio
36 x 18 Matrix Router
MIDI I/O
Stand-Alone Operation
MIDI Remote Control
Stand-Alone MIDI Controlled 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 and Front Panel...................................7
5.2 Quick Start ..............................................................9
6 Accessories...............................................................9
7 Warranty...................................................................10
8 Appendix..................................................................10
Installation and Operation - Windows
9 Hardware Installation..............................................14
10 Driver and Firmware
10.1 Driver Installation .................................................14
10.2 Driver Update.......................................................15
10.3 Deinstalling the Drivers........................................15
10.4 Firmware Update..................................................15
11 Configuring the Fireface UC
11.1 Settings Dialog – General....................................16
11.2 Settings Dialog – Pitch.........................................18
11.3 Settings Dialog – Gain..........................................19
11.4 Settings Dialog – LTC ..........................................20
11.5 Clock Modes - Synchronization............................20
12 Operation and Usage
12.1 Playback...............................................................22
12.2 DVD Playback (AC-3 / DTS)................................23
12.3 Notes on WDM.....................................................24
12.4 Channel Count under WDM.................................25
12.5 Multi-client Operation ...........................................25
12.6 Digital Recording..................................................26
12.7 Analog Recording.................................................26
13 Operation under ASIO 2.2
13.1 General ................................................................27
13.2 Channel Count under ASIO .................................28
13.3 Known Problems..................................................28
14 Using more than one Fireface................................29
15 DIGICheck................................................................30
16 Hotline – Troubleshooting......................................31
Installation and Operation - Mac OS X
17 Hardware Installation..............................................34
18 Driver
18.1 Driver Installation .................................................34
18.2 Driver Update.......................................................35
18.3 Firmware Update..................................................35
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User's Guide Fireface UC © RME
19 Configuring the Fireface
19.1 Settings Dialog – General....................................36
19.2 Clock Modes - Synchronization...........................38
20 Mac OS X FAQ
20.1 Round about Driver Installation ...........................40
20.2 MIDI doesn't work ................................................40
20.3 Repairing Disk Permissions.................................40
20.4 Supported Sample Rates.....................................40
20.5 Channel Count under Core Audio .......................41
20.6 Various Information..............................................41
21 Using more than one Fireface ...............................42
22 DIGICheck Mac........................................................42
23 Hotline – Troubleshooting .....................................43
Stand-Alone Operation, Connections and TotalMix
24 Stand-alone Operation
24.1 Front Panel Operation .........................................46
24.2 8-channel AD/DA-Converter................................47
24.3 2-channel Mic Preamp.........................................47
24.4 Monitor Mixer .......................................................47
24.5 Digital Format Converter......................................47
24.6 Analog/digital Routing Matrix...............................47
25 Analog Inputs
25.1 Line Rear .............................................................48
25.2 Microphone / Line Front.......................................48
25.3 Instrument / Line Front.........................................48
26 Analog Outputs
26.1 Line......................................................................50
26.2 Phones (7/8)........................................................50
27 Digital Connections
27.1 ADAT ...................................................................51
27.2 SPDIF ..................................................................51
27.3 MIDI .....................................................................52
28 Word Clock
28.1 Word Clock Input and Output ..............................53
28.2 Technical Description and Background...............54
28.3 Cables and Termination.......................................55
28.4 General Operation ...............................................55
29 TotalMix: Routing and Monitoring
29.1 Overview..............................................................56
29.2 The User Interface...............................................58
29.3 Elements of a Channel ........................................59
29.4 Tour de TotalMix..................................................59
29.5 Submix View ........................................................61
29.6 Mute and Solo......................................................61
29.7 Quick Access Panel.............................................62
29.8 Presets.................................................................62
29.9 Monitor Panel.......................................................64
29.10 Preferences..........................................................64
29.11 Editing the Names ...............................................65
29.12 Hotkeys................................................................66
29.13 Menu Options.......................................................67
29.14 Level Meter..........................................................68
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30 TotalMix: The Matrix
30.1 Overview..............................................................69
30.2 Elements of the Matrix View ................................69
30.3 Usage...................................................................69
30.4 Advantages of the Matrix.....................................70
31 TotalMix Super-Features
31.1 ASIO Direct Monitoring (Windows only) ..............70
31.2 Selection and Group based Operation ................71
31.3 Copy Routings to other Channels........................71
31.4 Delete Routings....................................................71
31.5 Recording a Subgroup (Loopback)......................72
31.6 Using external Effects Devices............................73
31.7 MS Processing.....................................................74
32 TotalMix MIDI Remote Control
32.1 Overview..............................................................75
32.2 Mapping ...............................................................75
32.3 Setup....................................................................76
32.4 Operation .............................................................76
32.5 Simple MIDI Control.............................................77
32.6 Loopback Detection.............................................78
32.7 Stand-Alone MIDI Control....................................79
Technical Reference
33 Tech Info ..................................................................82
34 Technical Specifications
34.1 Analog..................................................................83
34.2 MIDI......................................................................84
34.3 Digital...................................................................84
34.4 Digital Inputs ........................................................84
34.5 Digital Outputs......................................................85
34.6 General ................................................................85
35 Technical Background
35.1 Lock and SyncCheck...........................................86
35.2 Latency and Monitoring........................................87
35.3 USB Audio............................................................88
35.4 DS – Double Speed .............................................89
35.5 QS – Quad Speed................................................89
35.6 AES/EBU – SPDIF...............................................90
35.7 Noise Level in DS / QS Mode ..............................91
35.8 SteadyClock.........................................................91
36 Diagrams
36.1 Block Diagram Fireface UC .................................92
36.2 Connector Pinouts................................................93
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User's Guide Fireface UC © RME
User's Guide
Fireface UC
General
User's Guide Fireface UC © RME
5
1. Introduction
Thank you for choosing the Fireface UC. This unique audio system is capable of transferring
analog and digital audio data directly to a computer from practically any source. The latest Plug
and Play technology guarantees a simple installation, even for the inexperienced user. The
numerous unique features and well thought-out configuration dialog puts the Fireface UC at the
very top of the range of computer-based audio interfaces.
The package contains drivers for Windows XP, XP 64, Vista, Vista 64, Windows 7 /64 and Mac
OS X 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 directly within the audio hardware.
2. Package Contents
Please check that your Fireface UC package contains each of the following:
• Fireface UC
• Cable USB 2.0, 1.8 m (6 ft)
• MIDI breakout cable
• Power supply
• Manual
• RME Driver CD
• 1 optical cable (TOSLINK), 2 m (6.6 ft)
3. System Requirements
• Windows XP SP or up, Intel Mac OS X (10.5 or up)
• 1 USB 2.0 port
• Computer with at least Pentium Core 2 Duo CPU
4. Brief Description and Characteristics
• Enhanced Mixed Mode: Analog, ADAT and SPDIF I/O simultaneously usable
• Buffer sizes/latencies from 48 up to 8192 samples selectable
• All settings can be changed in real-time
• 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
• TotalMix for latency-free submixes and perfect ASIO Direct Monitoring
• TotalMix: 648 channel mixer with 42 bit internal resolution
• SyncAlign guarantees sample aligned and never swapping channels
• SyncCheck tests and reports the synchronization status of input signals
• Word clock input and output
• 2 x MIDI I/O, 32 channels high-speed MIDI
• 1 x Hi-power headphone output
• DIGICheck DSP: Level meter in hardware, peak- and RMS calculation
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User's Guide Fireface UC © RME
5. First Usage - Quickstart
5.1 Connectors and Front Panel
The front of the Fireface UC features instrument, microphone and line inputs, a stereo
line/headphone output, a rotary encoder with 7 segment display, and several status and MIDI
LEDs.
The Neutrik combo jacks of the
Mic/Line inputs can be used via
XLR and 1/4" TRS plugs. Both
inputs display overload (CLIP),
signal presence (SIG) and phantom power (48V) via green, red
and yellow LEDs.
Inputs 3/4, INST/LINE, accept both a balanced line signal as well as an unbalanced instrument
signal via 1/4" TRS plug.
The rotary encoder serves to set the input and output levels directly at the unit. This is not only
useful in stand-alone operation, but for example also when setting up the monitor volume.
Pushing the knob changes the encoder from CHANNEL to LEVEL mode and back. Pushing the
knob for more than a second activates either the single channel or stereo setup mode.
The State LEDs (WC, SPDIF, ADAT) indicate a valid input signal separately for each digital
input. Additionally, RME's exclusive SyncCheck indicates if one of these inputs is locked, but
not synchronous to the others, in which case the LED will flash. See also chapter 11.5/19.2,
Clock Modes - Synchronization.
The red HOST LED lights up when the
Fireface UC has been switched on. It
operates as error LED, in case the FireWire
connection hasn't been initialised yet, or has
been interrupted (error, cable not connected
etc.).
The yellow MIDI LEDs indicate MIDI data
received or sent, separately for both inputs
and outputs.
Phones is a low impedance line output of highest quality. It provides a sufficient and undistorted volume even when used with headphones.
User's Guide Fireface UC © RME
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The rear panel of the Fireface UC features four analog inputs, six analog outputs, the power
socket, and all digital inputs and outputs.
SPDIF I/O coaxial (RCA): AES/EBU compatible. The Fireface UC accepts the commonly used
digital audio formats, SPDIF as well as AES/EBU.
ADAT I/O (TOSLINK):
The unit automatically
detects SPDIF or ADAT
input signals. The optical
output can operate as
ADAT or SPDIF output,
depending on the current
setting in the Settings
dialog.
Word Clock I/O (BNC): A push switch activates internal termination (75 Ohms). When termination is activated the yellow LED beside the switch lights up.
MIDI I/O: Provides two MIDI inputs and outputs via the included breakout cable.
USB 2.0: USB socket for connection to the computer.
POWER (switch): Turns the Fireface UC on and off.
Socket for power connection. The
included hi-performance switch
mode power supply makes the
Fireface operate in the range of
100V to 240V AC. It is shortcircuit-proof, has an integrated
line-filter, is fully regulated against
voltage fluctuations, and
suppresses mains interference.
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User's Guide Fireface UC © RME
5.2 Quick Start
After the driver installation (chapter 10 / 18) connect the TRS jacks or the XLR jacks with the
analog signal source. The input sensitivity of the rear inputs can be changed in the Settings
dialog (Gain/Level), assuring the highest signal to noise ratio will be achieved. 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 Fireface UC 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 front's inputs signal level can be optimized using the Fireface's rotary encoder. A Signal
LED and a Clip LED help to find the correct level adjustment.
The Fireface's digital outputs provide SPDIF (AES/EBU compatible) and ADAT optical signals
at the corresponding ports.
On the analog playback side (the DA side), a coarse adjustment of the analog output level at
the rear jacks is available in the Settings dialog (Gain/Level/Line Out).
The output signal of channels 7/8 is available on the front. Their output level can be set using
the rotary encoder. This output is a very low impedance type, which can also be used to connect headphones.
The Fireface UC remembers all settings, and loads these automatically when switched on. With
this, the Fireface UC can be used stand-alone after setting it up accordingly, replacing lots of
dedicated devices (see chapter 24).
6. Accessories
RME offers several optional components for the Fireface UC:
Part Number Description
Optical cable for SPDIF and ADAT operation:
OK0050 Optical cable, TOSLINK, 0.5 m (1.6 ft)
OK0100 Optical cable, TOSLINK, 1 m (3.3 ft)
OK0200 Optical cable, TOSLINK, 2 m (6.6 ft)
OK0300 Optical cable, TOSLINK, 3 m (9.9 ft)
OK0500 Optical cable, TOSLINK, 5 m (16.4 ft)
OK1000 Optical cable, TOSLINK, 10 m (33 ft)
NTCARDBUS Power supply for Fireface UC. Robust and light-weight switching power sup-
ply, 100 V-240 V AC, 12 V 2 A DC.
User's Guide Fireface UC © RME
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7. Warranty
Each individual Fireface UC undergoes comprehensive quality control and a complete test at
IMM before shipping. The usage of high grade components allows us to offer a full two year
warranty. We accept a copy of the sales receipt as valid warranty legitimation.
If you suspect that your product is faulty, please contact your local retailer. The 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.
Audio AG does not accept claims for damages of any kind, especially consequential damage.
Liability is limited to the value of the Fireface UC. The general terms of business drawn up by
Audio AG apply at all times.
8. Appendix
RME news, driver updates and further product information are available on our website:
http://www.rme-audio.com
Distributor: Audio AG, Am Pfanderling 60, D-85778 Haimhausen, Tel.: (49) 08133 / 91810
Manufacturer:
IMM Elektronik GmbH, Leipziger Strasse 32, D-09648 Mittweida
Trademarks
All trademarks, registered or otherwise, are the property of their respective owners. RME,
DIGICheck and Hammerfall are registered trademarks of RME Intelligent Audio Solutions.
SyncCheck, ZLM, DIGI96, SyncAlign, TMS, TotalMix, SteadyClock and Fireface are trademarks
of RME Intelligent Audio Solutions. Alesis and ADAT are registered trademarks of Alesis Corp.
ADAT optical is a trademark of Alesis Corp. Microsoft, Windows XP and Windows Vista are
registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corp. Steinberg, Cubase and VST are registered trademarks of Steinberg Media Technologies GmbH. ASIO is a trademark of Steinberg
Media Technologies GmbH.
Copyright © Matthias Carstens, 6/2009. Version 1.0
Current driver version: W: 0.935, Mac OS X: 1.13, Firmware 82
Although the contents of this User’s Guide have been thoroughly checked for errors, RME can
not guarantee that it is correct throughout. RME does not accept responsibility for any misleading or incorrect information within this guide. Lending or copying any part of the guide or the
RME Driver CD, or any commercial exploitation of these media without express written permission from RME Intelligent Audio Solutions is prohibited. RME reserves the right to change
specifications at any time without notice.
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User's Guide Fireface UC © RME
CE / FCC Compliance
CE
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 RL2004/108/EG, and European Low Voltage Directive RL2006/95/EG.
FCC
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.
RoHS
This product has been soldered lead-free and fulfils the requirements of the RoHS directive.
ISO 9001
This product has been manufactured under ISO 9001 quality management. The manufacturer,
IMM Elektronik GmbH, is also certified for ISO 14001 (Environment) and ISO 13485 (medical
devices).
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 IMM Elektronik GmbH, the manufacturer of the Fireface UC.
For this the device has to be sent free to the door to:
IMM Elektronik GmbH
Leipziger Straße 32
D-09648 Mittweida
Germany
Shipments not prepaid will be rejected and returned on the original sender's costs.
User's Guide Fireface UC © RME
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User's Guide Fireface UC © RME
User's Guide
Fireface UC
Installation and Operation - Windows
User's Guide Fireface UC © RME
13
9. Hardware Installation
• Connect the power supply to the Fireface and then to any suitable power outlet. Power-on
the Fireface with the rear power switch.
• Check the correct firmware version by a double click on the rotary encoder button. The
display PC means Windows, the display AP means Mac. The double click automatically
switches between both versions. Note: a change of state is only possible when the unit is
not connected to the computer.
• Connect computer and Fireface using the supplied USB cable.
• Windows detects the new hardware as Fireface UC Win (serial number) and asks for
drivers.
10. Driver and Firmware
10.1 Driver Installation
After the Fireface has been recognized, (see 9. Hardware Installation) the hardware assistant
finds a Fireface UC Win (serial number). Please note the Win. If Mac is displayed the unit has
to be disconnected from the computer and its firmware has to be changed to Win (see above)
prior to installing the drivers.
Insert the RME Driver CD into your CD-ROM drive, and follow further instructions which appear
on your computer screen. The driver files are located in the directory \Fireface UC Win on the
RME Driver CD.
Windows now installs the driver of the Fireface UC and registers it
as a new audio device in the system. After a reboot, the symbols of
mixer and Settings dialog will appear in the task bar. The red Host
error LED extinguishes.
In case the warning messages 'Digital signature not found', 'Do not install driver', 'not certified
driver' or similar come up: simply ignore them and continue with the installation.
In case the Hardware Wizard does not show up automatically after connecting the Fireface,
do not attempt to install the drivers manually! An installation of drivers for non-recognized
hardware will cause a blue screen when booting Windows!
Possible reasons why a Fireface 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
• No power. After switching the Fireface on, at least the 7 segment display has to be lit.
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User's Guide Fireface UC © RME
10.2 Driver Update
When facing problems with the automatic driver update, the user-driven way of driver installation will work.
Under >Control Panel /System /Device Manager /Sound, Video and Game Controllers /RME
Fireface UC/Properties /Driver< you'll find the 'Update Driver' button.
XP: Select 'Install from a list or specific location (advanced)', click 'Next', select 'Don't
search I will choose the driver to install', click 'Next', then 'Have Disk'. Now point to the
driver update's directory.
Vista: Select 'Browse my computer for driver software', then 'Let me pick from a list of
device drivers from my computer', then 'Have Disk'. Now point to the driver update's direc-
tory.
This method also allows for the installation of older drivers than the currently installed ones.
10.3 Deinstalling the Drivers
A deinstallation 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 deinstallation request. This request can be found (like all
deinstallation entries) in Control Panel, Software. Click on the entry 'RME Fireface UC'.
10.4 Firmware Update
The Flash Update Tool updates the firmware of the Fireface UC 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 Fireface UC'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).
If more than one unit is installed, further units can be flashed by changing to the next tab and
repeating the process.
After the update the Fireface UC needs to be reset. This is done by powering down the Fireface
for a short time. Attention: the Fireface should not be switched off 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 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.
In case the automatic activation of the Safety-BIOS fails it can also be activated manually: Push
the rotary encoder button while switching on the unit. This method is also useful to temporarily
deactivate a newer firmware. With pressed button the older version of the firmware will be
loaded (at the time of writing this manual version 82).
User's Guide Fireface UC © RME
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11. Configuring the Fireface
11.1 Settings dialog - General
Configuration of the Fireface UC 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 Fireface UC (TotalMix) can be opened:
• by clicking on the mixer icon in the Task Bar's notification area
The hardware of the Fireface UC offers a number of helpful, well thought-of 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
• Configuration of digital I/Os
• Current sample rate
• Synchronization behaviour
• State of input and output
• Level of analog I/Os
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 status displays at the bottom of
the dialog box give precise
information about the current status
of the system, and the status of all
digital signals.
Input Status indicates for each input (Word, optical, SPDIF coax.) whether there is a valid signal
(Lock, No Lock), or if there is a valid and synchronous signal (Sync). The Clock Mode display
shows the clock reference (Current…).
The string Errors does not refer to buffer errors, but USB transmission errors. More information
can be found in chapter 35.3.
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User's Guide Fireface UC © RME
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 13/14).
The string 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 35.3.
Output Format
Word
The word clock output signal usually equals the current sample rate. Selecting Single Speed
causes the output signal to always stay within the range of 32 kHz to 48 kHz. So at 96 kHz and
192 kHz sample rate, the output word clock is 48 kHz.
Optical
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 coax.
The coaxial SPDIF output can have the Channel Status Consumer or Professional. For further
details please refer to chapter 27.2.
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 this is no longer supported to
be done by the audio program. However, an ASIO program can still set the sample rate by itself.
At ongoing 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 one of the input signals
(Word, Optical, SPDIF coax., LTC = Slave). If the selected source isn't available, the unit will
change to the next available one (AutoSync). If none is available then the internal clock is used.
The current clock source is displayed to the right.
Pitch
More information on Pitch is available in chapter 11.2.
Input Status
Indicates for each input (Word, optical, SPDIF coax.) whether there is a valid signal (Lock, No
Lock), or if there is a valid and synchronous signal (Sync). The second row shows the sample
frequency measured by the hardware. In Clock Mode the clock reference is shown (Current…).
See also chapter 35.1.
User's Guide Fireface UC © RME
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11.2 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 Fireface 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 Fireface to be in clock mode Master! The frequency setting
will only be applied to this one specific Fireface!
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 not before 5 seconds after a change.
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User's Guide Fireface UC © RME
11.3 Settings Dialog – Gain
Level
Line In
Defines the reference level of the rear
analog inputs 5-8.
Line Out
Defines the reference level of the rear
analog outputs 1-6.
Phones
Defines the reference level of the
analog outputs 7/8.
Microphone Inputs
Link 1+2
Ganging of faders 1 and 2. Simplifies
the setup in case both channels shall
have the same setting/values
+48V
Phantom power (48V) can be
selected for each microphone input
separately.
Channel 1 and 2 of the Fireface UC
have digitally controlled microphone
preamps of the highest quality. The
digital control offers a gain setting in steps of 1 dB within a range of 10 dB to 65 dB. The configuration is done either directly at the unit via the rotary encoder, or via the Settings dialog's tab
Gain. The current gain is displayed in dB beside the fader.
In the lower range the fader jumps from 10 dB to 0 dB. This useful additional setting provides
line signal compatibility at up to +10 dBu.
Instrument / Line Inputs
Link 3+4
Ganging of faders 3 and 4. Simplifies the setup in case both channels shall have the same setting/values
Pad
Pad decrease the input sensitivity by 12 dB.
Inst
Activate the option Instrument to use inputs 3 and 4 with instruments. The input impedance is
raised to 470 kOhm, the input sensitivity increases by 10 dB.
The inputs 3 and 4 have a digitally controlled preamp. It allows for an additional gain between 0
and 18 dB, in steps of 0.5 dB. The configuration is done either directly at the unit via the rotary
encoder, or via the Settings dialog's tab Gain. The current gain is displayed in dB beside the
fader. Further information is found in chapter 25.3.
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11.4 Settings Dialog - LTC
The Fireface UC can extract position information as MTC as well APP (ASIO Positioning Protocol) from Timecode (LTC, SMPTE) received at the analog input 4.
A detected Timecode is shown as time information in the LTC In field. The analog input signal
needs a specific level: slowly reduce the level until the display stumbles or completely fails.
Then increase the level by 10 dB.
The field Input State will show further details of the Timecode.
Basically Timecode can also be used as clock source. However, the calculation of the position
information is less precise then. Recommended is a clocking of the Fireface UC with a clock
signal (for example Word) directly from the device that sends the Timecode.
11.5 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. The Fireface UC utilizes a very user-friendly, intelligent clock control, called AutoSync.
In AutoSync mode, the system constantly scans all digital inputs for a valid signal. If any valid
signal is found, the Fireface switches from the internal quartz (Clock Mode – Current Internal) to
a clock extracted from the input signal (Clock Mode – Current ADAT etc). 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 Master mode.
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 Fireface UC, AutoSync may cause feedback in the digital carrier, so synchronization breaks
down. To remedy this, switch the Fireface’s clock mode to Master (Clock Source – Internal).
A digital system can only have one master! If the Fireface’s clock mode is set to 'Internal',
all other devices must be set to ‘Slave’.
The Fireface UC's ADAT and SPDIF inputs operate simultaneously. Because there is no input
selector, the Fireface UC has to be told which one of the signals is the sync reference (a digital
device can only be clocked from a single source). The Clock Source selection is used to define
a preferred input for the automatic clock system. This input will stay active as long as a valid
signal is found.
To cope with some situations which may arise in studio practice, defining a sync reference is
essential. One example: An ADAT recorder is connected to the ADAT input (ADAT immediately
becomes the AutoSync source) and 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
(wrong) clock from the ADAT i.e. out of sync. In this case, the Clock Source should be set temporarily to SPDIF.
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User's Guide Fireface UC © RME
If several digital devices are to be used simultaneously in a system, they not only have to operate with the same sample frequency but also be synchronous with each other. Therefore a Master has to be defined within the digital system, sending the same clock signal to all the other
devices.
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 each input (Word Clock, ADAT, SPDIF and LTC), or if there is a
valid and synchronous signal (Sync). In the field Clock Mode the clock reference is shown (Cur-
rent…). See chapter 35.1.
In practice, SyncCheck provides the user with an easy way of checking whether all digital devices connected to the system are properly configured. With SyncCheck, finally anyone can
master this common source of error, previously one of the most complex issues in the digital
studio world.
Note on SPDIF and Word
: Thanks to its lightning fast SteadyClock PLL the Fireface UC is not
only capable of handling standard frequencies, but also any sample rate between 28 and 200
kHz. For varispeed operation the word clock input is the preferred source.
User's Guide Fireface UC © RME
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12. Operation and Usage
12.1 Playback
In the audio application being used, Fireface must be selected as output device. This 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 /Sounds<). Also Fireface
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 /Sounds /Playback<.
The screenshot shows a typical configuration dialog. After selecting a device, audio data is sent
to an analog or digital (ADAT / SPDIF) 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
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 Fireface UC includes a workaround: the sample rate can be set
globally for all WDM devices within the Settings dialog, see chapter 11.1.
:
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12.2 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 Fireface's SPDIF outputs. For
this to work, the WDM SPDIF device of the Fireface UC 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 Fireface.
This 'SPDIF' signal sounds like chopped noise at highest level. Therefore the Fireface automatically sets the non-audio bit within the digital data stream, to prevent most SPDIF receivers
from accepting the signal, and to prevent any attached equipment from being 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 Fireface. All modes are supported, from 2 to 8
channels, at 16 bit resolution and up to 192 kHz sample rate. For this to work select
XP: the WDM playback device ’Loudspeaker’ of the Fireface UC in >Control Panel/ Sounds and
Multimedia/ Audio<, and 'Use only default devices' has to be checked. Additionally the loud-
speaker setup, found under >Volume/ Speaker Settings/ Advanced< has to be changed from
Stereo to 5.1 Surround.
Vista: the Fireface UC’s WDM playback device ’Loudspeaker’ in >Control Panel/ Sound/ Play-
back < 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 Fireface.
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)
: Selecting the Fireface to be used as system playback device is against our recommen-
Note 1
dations, as professional interfaces should not be disturbed by system events. Make sure to reassign the selection after usage, or to disable any system sounds (tab Sounds, scheme 'No
audio').
Note 2
: The DVD player will be synced backwards from the Fireface. This means when using
AutoSync and/or word clock, the playback speed and pitch follows the incoming clock signal.
User's Guide Fireface UC © RME
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12.3 Notes on WDM
The driver offers one WDM streaming device per stereo pair, like ADAT 1+2 (Fireface UC).
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: <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 as ASIO
and our MME driver (see below).
Because of the driver's multichannel streaming ability (option Interleaved, see chapter 12.5),
Sonar not only finds the stereo device mentioned above, but also the 8-channel interleaved
devices, and adds the channel number at the end:
Fireface Analog (1+2) is the first stereo device
Fireface Analog (3+4) is the next stereo device
Fireface 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: >Control Panel /Sound /Playback /Loudspeaker /Configure <
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12.4 Channel Count under WDM
The Fireface’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.
It is nearly impossible to change the number of WDM devices without a reboot of the computer.
Therefore whenever the Fireface UC changes into Double Speed (88.2/96 kHz) or Quad Speed
mode (176.4/192 kHz) all devices stay present, but become partly inactive.
WDM Stereo devices Double Speed Quad Speed
Fireface UC Analog (1+2) Fireface UC Analog (1+2) Fireface UC Analog (1+2)
Fireface UC Analog (3+4) Fireface UC Analog (3+4) Fireface UC Analog (3+4)
Fireface UC Analog (5+6) Fireface UC Analog (5+6) Fireface UC Analog (5+6)
Fireface UC Analog (7+8) Fireface UC Analog (7+8) Fireface UC Analog (7+8)
Fireface UC SPDIF Fireface UC SPDIF Fireface UC SPDIF
Fireface UC AS (1+2) Fireface UC AS (1+2) Fireface UC AS (1+2)
Fireface UC ADAT (3+4) Fireface UC ADAT (3+4) Fireface UC ADAT (3+4)
Fireface UC ADAT (5+6) Fireface UC ADAT (5+6) Fireface UC ADAT (5+6)
Fireface UC ADAT (7+8) Fireface UC ADAT (7+8) Fireface UC ADAT (7+8)
12.5 Multi-client Operation
RME audio interfaces support multi-client operation. This means several programs can be used
at the same time. Also ASIO and WDM can be used simultaneously. The use of multi-client
operation requires to follow two simple rules:
• Multi-client operation requires identical sample rates!
I.e. it is not possible to use one software with 44.1 kHz and the other with 48 kHz.
• Different software can not use the same playback channels at the same time.
If for example Cubase uses channels 1/2, this playback pair can't be used in WaveLab, no matter if ASIO or WDM. However, 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. Note that
identical inputs can be used at the same time, as the driver simply sends the data to all applications simultaneously.
ASIO-Multiclient
RME audio interfaces support ASIO multi-client operation. It is possible to use more than one
ASIO software at the same time. Again the sample rate has to be identical, and each software
has to use its own playback channels. Again the inputs can be used 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 already occupied. Therefore DIGICheck
is able to analyse and display playback data from any software, no matter which format the
software uses.
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12.6 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 two important features to the Fireface UC: a comprehensive I/O signal status display showing sample frequency, lock and sync status in the Settings
dialog, and status LEDs for each input.
The sample frequency shown in the Settings dialog (see chapter 11.1, screenshot Settings) is
useful as a quick display of the current configuration (the board itself and all 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 selecting the required input, Fireface UC displays the current sample frequency. This parameter can
then be changed in the application’s audio attributes (or similar) dialog.
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 29).
An automated control of real-time monitoring can be achieved by Steinberg’s ASIO protocol
with RME’s ASIO 2.2 drivers and all ASIO 2.0 compatible programs. 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).
12.7 Analog Recording
For recordings via the analog inputs the corresponding record device has to be chosen (Fireface UC Analog (x+x)).
The input sensitivity of the rear inputs can be changed via the Settings dialog (Gain/Level) in
three steps so that the recording is done with optimized levels. A further improvement is possible by slowly raising the source’s output level until the peak level meters in TotalMix reach
about –3 dB.
The input sensitivity of the frontside analog inputs can also be adjusted directly at the Fireface
via the rotary encoder knob. A Signal LED and a Clip LED help to find the correct level adjustment.
More information is found in chapter 25.2 and 25.3.
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13. Operation under ASIO
13.1 General
Start the ASIO software and select ASIO Fireface UC as the audio I/O device.
Fireface UC supports
ASIO Direct Monitoring
(ADM). Please note that
currently Nuendo,
Cubase and Logic either
do not support ADM
completely or error-free.
The most often reported
problem is the wrong
behaviour of panorama
in a stereo channel.
When the sample frequency is set to 88.2 or
96 kHz, the number of
ASIO ADAT channels is
reduced to 4. At a sample rate of 176.4 or 192
kHz (Quad Speed
Mode) the ADAT I/O is
no longer available. Nevertheless it will send out a synchronized ADAT signal at a quarter of the
sample rate. The ASIO driver corrects the number of channels when changing from Single to
Double or Quad Speed. The channel situation is explained in chapter 13.2.
Please note that when changing the sample rate range between Single, Double and Quad
Speed the 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.
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 Fireface UC supports both MME MIDI and DirectMusic MIDI. It depends on the used application
which one will work better.
User's Guide Fireface UC © RME
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13.2 Channel Count under ASIO
At a sample rate of 88.2 or 96 kHz, the ADAT optical input and outputs operate in S/MUX mode,
so the number of available channels per port is reduced from 8 to 4.
At a sample rate of 176.4 and 192 kHz, the ADAT optical input and outputs operate in S/MUX4
mode, so the number of available channels per port is limited to 2.
Please note that when changing the sample rate range between Single, Double and Quad
Speed the 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
Fireface UC Analog 1 to 8 Fireface UC Analog 1 to 8 Fireface UC Analog 1 to 8
Fireface UC SPDIF L / R Fireface UC SPDIF L / R Fireface UC SPDIF L / R
Fireface UC AS 1 to 2 Fireface UC AS 1 to 2 Fireface UC AS 1 to 2
Fireface UC ADAT 3 to 4 Fireface UC ADAT 3 to 4 Fireface UC ADAT 3 to 4
Fireface UC ADAT 5 to 6 Fireface UC ADAT 5 to 6 Fireface UC ADAT 5 to 6
Fireface UC ADAT 7 to 8 Fireface UC ADAT 7 to 8 Fireface UC ADAT 7 to 8
13.3 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 Fireface UC. Furthermore PlugIns should be
deactivated temporarily to make sure they do not cause these problems.
More information can be found in chapter 35.3.
Another common source of trouble is incorrect synchronization. ASIO does not support asyn-
chronous 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 Fireface UC
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 Fireface UC. They all have to be in sync. Else a
periodically repeated noise will be heard.
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