RME HDSP9632 User manual
®
User's Guide
Hammerfall® DSP System
HDSP 9632
TotalMix
™
24 Bit / 192 kHz 9
SyncAlign
SteadyClock
PCI Busmaster Digital I/O System
2 + 8 + 2 Channels SPDIF / ADAT / Analog Interface
24 Bit / 192 kHz Stereo Analog Monitor
ZLM® SyncCheck®
™
24 Bit / 192 kHz Digital Audio
MIDI I/O
General
1 Introduction ...............................................................6
2 Package Contents.....................................................6
3 System Requirements ..............................................6
4 Brief Description and Characteristics.....................6
5 Hardware Installation................................................7
6 Hardware – Connectors
6.1 External Connectors ..............................................7
6.2 Internal Connectors................................................8
7 Accessories...............................................................9
8 Warranty.....................................................................9
9 Appendix..................................................................10
Driver Installation and Operation - Windows
10 Driver and Firmware
10.1 Driver Installation .................................................14
10.2 Driver Update.......................................................14
10.3 Deinstalling the Drivers........................................14
10.4 Firmware Update..................................................15
11 Configuring the HDSP 9632
11.1 Settings Dialog.....................................................15
11.2 Settings Dialog – DDS .........................................18
11.3 Clock Modes – Synchronization...........................19
12 Operation and Usage
12.1 Playback...............................................................21
12.2 DVD Playback (AC-3 / DTS)................................22
12.3 Notes on WDM.....................................................23
12.4 Multi-client Operation ...........................................24
12.5 Digital Recording..................................................25
12.6 Analog Recording.................................................26
13 Operation under ASIO 2.0
13.1 General ................................................................26
13.2 Known Problems..................................................26
14 Operation under GSIF.............................................27
15 Using more than one Hammerfall DSP .................28
16 DIGICheck................................................................28
17 Hotline – Troubleshooting
17.1 General ................................................................29
17.2 Installation............................................................30
18 Diagrams
18.1 Channel Routing ASIO 96 kHz ............................31
18.2 Channel Routing WDM 96 kHz............................32
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User's Guide HDSP System HDSP 9632 © RME
Driver Installation and Operation - Mac OS X
19 Driver and Flash Update
19.1 Driver Installation.................................................34
19.2 Driver Update.......................................................34
19.3 Flash Update........................................................34
20 Configuring the HDSP 9632
20.1 Settings Dialog.....................................................35
20.2 Settings Dialog – DDS.........................................37
20.3 Clock Modes – Synchronization..........................38
21 Mac OS X FAQ
21.1 Round about Driver Installation...........................40
21.2 MIDI doesn't work ................................................40
21.3 Supported Sample Rates.....................................41
21.4 Repairing Disk Permissions.................................41
21.5 PCI Compatibility .................................................41
21.6 Various Information..............................................41
22 Hotline – Troubleshooting .....................................42
23 Diagram: Channel Routing at 96 kHz ......................43
Connections and TotalMix
24 Analog Connections
24.1 Line Inputs ...........................................................46
24.2 Line Outputs.........................................................47
24.3 Phones.................................................................47
25 Digital Connections
25.1 ADAT ...................................................................48
25.2 SPDIF...................................................................48
25.3 MIDI......................................................................49
26 Word Clock
26.1 Word Clock Input and Output..............................50
26.2 Technical Description and Background...............51
26.3 Cables and Termination.......................................52
26.4 General Operation................................................52
27 TotalMix: Routing and Monitoring
27.1 Overview..............................................................53
27.2 The User Interface...............................................55
27.3 Elements of a Channel ........................................56
27.4 Tour de TotalMix..................................................56
27.5 Submix View ........................................................56
27.6 Mute and Solo......................................................58
27.7 Quick Access Panel.............................................59
27.8 Presets.................................................................59
27.9 Monitor Panel.......................................................61
27.10 Preferences........................................................61
27.11 Editing the Names..............................................62
27.12 Hotkeys..............................................................63
27.13 Menu Options.....................................................64
27.14 Level Meter ........................................................65
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28 TotalMix: The Matrix
28.1 Overview..............................................................66
28.2 Elements of the Matrix View ................................66
28.3 Usage...................................................................66
28.4 Advantages of the Matrix.....................................67
29 TotalMix Super-Features
29.1 ASIO Direct Monitoring (Windows only) ..............67
29.2 Selection and Group based Operation ................68
29.3 Copy Routings to other Channels........................68
29.4 Delete Routings....................................................68
29.5 Recording a Subgroup (Loopback)......................69
29.6 Using external Effects Devices............................70
30 TotalMix MIDI Remote Control
30.1 Overview..............................................................71
30.2 Mapping ...............................................................71
30.3 Setup....................................................................72
30.4 Operation .............................................................72
30.5 Simple MIDI Control.............................................73
30.6 Loopback Detection.............................................74
Technical Reference
31 Tech Info ..................................................................76
32 Technical Specifications
32.1 Analog..................................................................77
32.2 Digital...................................................................78
32.3 Digital Inputs ........................................................78
32.4 Digital Outputs......................................................79
32.5 MIDI......................................................................79
33 Technical Background
33.1 Lock and SyncCheck...........................................80
33.2 Latency and Monitoring........................................81
33.3 DS – Double Speed .............................................82
33.4 QS – Quad Speed................................................83
33.5 AES/EBU – SPDIF...............................................83
33.6 Noise Level in DS / QS Mode ..............................84
33.7 SteadyClock.........................................................84
34 Diagrams
34.1 Block Diagram HDSP 9632..................................85
34.2 Connector Pinouts ...............................................86
34.3 Overview Channels and Expansion Boards ........87
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User's Guide HDSP System HDSP 9632 © RME
User's Guide
HDSP 9632
General
User's Guide HDSP System HDSP 9632 © RME
5
1. Introduction
Thank you for choosing the RME Hammerfall DSP system. This unique audio system is capable
of transferring analog and digital audio data directly to a computer from practically any device.
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
Hammerfall DSP
The package contains drivers for Windows 2000 SP4, Windows XP, Vista /64 and Mac OS X
PPC and 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.
at the very top of the range of computer-based audio interfaces.
2. Package Contents
Please check your Hammerfall DSP system's package contains each of the following:
• HDSP 9632 PCI card
• Quick Info guide
• RME Driver CD
• Digital adapter cable (phono / phono to D-type 9 pin)
• Analog adapter cable (phono / phono / TRS / MIDI to D-type 15 pin)
• Internal cable (2-core)
• 1 optical cable (TOSLINK)
3. System Requirements
• Windows 2000 SP4, Windows XP, Mac OS X (10.28 or higher)
• PCI Interface: a free PCI rev. 2.1 Busmaster slot
4. Brief Description and Characteristics
• Hammerfall design: 0% (zero!) CPU load, even using all 32 ASIO channels
• All settings can be changed in real-time
• Analog, ADAT and SPDIF I/Os can be used simultaneously
• 8 buffer sizes/latencies available: 1.5 / 3 / 6 / 12 / 23 / 46 / 93 / 186 ms
• 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
• TotalMix for latency-free submixes and perfect ASIO Direct Monitoring
• SyncAlign guarantees sample aligned and never swapping channels
• SyncCheck tests and reports the synchronization status of input signals
• 1 x MIDI I/O, 16 channels high-speed MIDI
• DIGICheck DSP: Level meter in hardware, peak- and RMS calculation
• SteadyClock: Jitter-immune, super-stable digital clock
• TotalMix: 512 channel mixer with 40 bit internal resolution
• Optional word clock input and output
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User's Guide HDSP System HDSP 9632 © RME
5. Hardware Installation
Before installing the PCI card, please make sure the computer is switched off and the
power cable is disconnected from the mains supply. Inserting or removing a PCI card while
the computer is in operation can cause irreparable damage to both motherboard and card!
1. Disconnect the power cord and all other cables from the computer.
2. Remove the computer's housing. Further information on how to do this can be obtained
from your computer´s instruction manual.
3. Important: Before removing the HDSP 9632 from its protective bag, discharge any static in
your body by touching the metal chassis of the PC.
4. Prior to installation: Connect the HDSP 9632 card to any Expansion Board (if present) using
the supplied flat ribbon cable. Please read the Expansion Board's manual for more details.
5. Insert the HDSP 9632 firmly into a free PCI slot, press and fasten the screw.
6. If present, insert the Expansion Board(s) and fasten the screw(s).
7. Replace the computer's housing.
8. Reconnect all cables including the power cord.
6. Hardware - Connectors
6.1 External Connectors
The bracket of the
HDSP 9632 has one
ADAT optical input
and output, a 9-pin
and a 15-pin D-type
socket. The included
breakout cable provides all the analog
and digital connections.
The ADAT I/O can also be used as optical SPDIF I/O, if set up accordingly in the Settings dialog.
The 9-pin digital breakout cable has two RCA connectors as coaxial SPDIF I/O. The red phono
socket is the output. The breakout cable BO968 (option) has the same RCA connectors, but
adds an XLR AES/EBU input and output.
The 15-pin analog breakout cable has four RCA connectors (stereo analog I/O), a 1/4" TRS
jack (headphones), and two 5-pin DIN connectors (MIDI I/O). Using the optional analog XLR
breakout cable BO9632-XLRMKH, the HDSP 9632 offers balanced Line inputs and outputs via
female and male XLR connectors.
Optional HDSP 9632 Word Clock Module
The expansion board HDSP 9632 Word Clock Module provides one word clock input and two
word clock outputs. A green LED signals the LOCK state of the word clock input stage. A small
push switch allows to activate 75 Ohm termination for the word clock input. The yellow LED is lit
when termination is active.
Optional Analog Expansion Boards AI4S-192 and AO4S-192
These expansion boards increase the number of available channels by four balanced analog
inputs and outputs respectively. Thus the HDSP 9632 turns into an I/O solution with eight channels ADAT, two channels SPDIF and six channels analog, a sum of 16 channels in and out.
Although not being limited to 96 kHz, the name '19232' did not convince anyone at RME.
User's Guide HDSP System HDSP 9632 © RME
7
6.2 Internal Connectors
CD / AEB / SYNC IN
This internal digital input can be used with both SPDIF and ADAT.
SPDIF
• Connection to an internal CD-ROM drive with digital audio output. Allows for a direct trans-
fer of digital audio data within the computer.
• Connection to SYNC OUT of another card. This internal SPDIF connection can be used to
synchronize multiple cards with sample accuracy, and without the need for an external
connection. The card of which SYNC OUT is used will be master, the SYNC IN one will be
slave. SPDIF In / Internal has to be selected in the Settings dialog. Additionally Pref. Sync
Ref has to be set to SPDIF In for this internal connection to work properly. Please note that
the external SPDIF- or AES input can no longer be used.
ADAT
• Connection to an AEB4-I or AEB8-I. When using these Expansion Boards ST7 must also
be connected to the Expansion Boards. The highest sample rate is 48 kHz. Select AEB /
ADAT Int. in the Settings dialog. In this mode, the optical input can still be used as optical
SPDIF input.
• Connection to a TEB (TDIF Expansion Board). The highest sample rate is 96 kHz, the 4-
channel Double Wire mode (S/MUX) is automatically activated in Double Speed mode. Select AEB / ADAT Int. in the Settings dialog.
ADAT OUT
This internal ADAT output carries the same audio data as the optical output ADAT1 in ADAT
mode. Connecting an AEB4-O or AEB8-O, the highest sample rate is 48 kHz. Connecting a
TEB the highest sample rate is 96 kHz, the 4-channel Double Wire mode (S/MUX) is automatically activated. The internal ADAT output stays active, even when the optical output is switched
into SPDIF operation. Please note the label GND for correct polarity.
SYNC OUT
This internal SPDIF output carries the same audio data as the external phono output. It can be
used to synchronize multiple cards, see above. Please note the label GND for correct polarity.
WORD CLOCK MODULE
10-pin connector for a connection of the optional HDSP 9632 Word Clock Module via flat ribbon
cable.
AI4S-192 / AO4S-192
26-pin connector for the optional analog expansion boards, AI4S-192 and AO4S-192. These
expansion boards are detected automatically and self-registered by the driver. The additional
channels are displayed automatically in TotalMix as well.
Blue Jumper
This is no internal input or output. The blue jumper allows to change the card's power-on delay
when booting the computer. Factory default is jumper in place. The FPGA of the HDSP 9632
will then be booted about 0.5 seconds after switching on the computer. This provides an effective way to get rid of problems caused by unstable power supplies in the moment of power-on.
In case this delay will become a problem some day (very unlikely, and no system known so far),
the jumper can be pulled. The delay is then reduced to 30 ms.
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User's Guide HDSP System HDSP 9632 © RME
7. Accessories
RME offers several optional components. Additionally parts of the HDSP 9632, like the special
breakout cables, are available separately.
Part Number Description
36003 Optical cable, TOSLINK, 0.5 m (1.6 ft)
36004 Optical cable, TOSLINK, 1 m (3.3 ft)
36006 Optical cable, TOSLINK, 2 m (6.6 ft)
36007 Optical cable, TOSLINK, 3 m (9.9 ft)
36008 Optical cable, TOSLINK, 5 m (16.4 ft)
36009 Optical cable, TOSLINK, 10 m (33 ft)
Standard lightpipe with TOSLINK connectors, RME approved quality.
BO9632 Breakout cable SPDIF (RCA)
BO968 Breakout cable AES (XLR)
BO9632-CMKH Breakout cable Analog (RCA)
BO9632-XLRMKH Breakout cable Analog (XLR)
8. Warranty
Each individual Hammerfall DSP undergoes comprehensive quality control and a complete test
at IMM before shipping. The usage of high grade components allow 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 Hammerfall DSP. The general terms of business drawn up
by Audio AG apply at all times.
User's Guide HDSP System HDSP 9632 © RME
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9. 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,
DIGI96, SyncAlign, ZLM, SyncCheck, DIGICheck and Hammerfall are registered trademarks of
RME Intelligent Audio Solutions. HDSP 9632, TMS and TotalMix 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 2000 and Windows XP 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, 12/2007. Version 1.3
Current driver version: W2k/XP: 3.056, Mac OS X: 1.71
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 HDSP System HDSP 9632 © 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 RL89/336/EWG and RL73/23/EWG.
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 HDSP
9632I.
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 HDSP System HDSP 9632 © RME
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User's Guide HDSP System HDSP 9632 © RME
User's Guide
HDSP 9632
Driver Installation and Operation - Windows
User's Guide HDSP System HDSP 9632 © RME
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10. Driver and Firmware
10.1 Driver Installation
After the PCI card has been installed correctly (see 5. Hardware Installation), and the computer
has been switched on, Windows will recognize the new hardware component and start its
‘Hardware Wizard’. 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
\WDM on the RME Driver CD.
Windows will install the Hammerfall DSP System driver, and will register the card in the system
as a new audio device. After a reboot the HDSP 9632 is ready for use.
In case the warning messages 'Digital signature not found', 'Do not install driver', 'not certified
driver' or similar come up: Don't listen to Microsoft, listen to us and continue with the installation.
In case the Hardware Wizard does not show up automatically after installation of the card,
do not attempt to install the drivers manually! An installation of drivers for non-recognized
hardware will cause a blue screen when booting Windows!
10.2 Driver Update
RME's driver updates often include a new hdsp.inf file. Also the revision number of the hardware might change (after a flash update). To prevent Windows 2000/XP from using an old
hdsp.inf, or to copy some of the old driver files, be sure NOT to let Windows search for the
driver! Instead tell Windows what to do.
Under >Control Panel /System /Device Manager /Sound, Video and Game Controllers /RME
Hammerfall DSP /Properties /Driver< you'll find the 'Update Driver' button. 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.
This method also allows to install older drivers than the currently installed ones.
10.3 Deinstalling the Drivers
A deinstallation of the HDSP's 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. Those entries can be removed from the registry through a software deinstallation request. This request can be found
(like all deinstallation entries) in Control Panel, Software. Click on the entry 'RME Hammerfall
DSP (WDM)'.
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User's Guide HDSP System HDSP 9632 © RME
10.4 Firmware Update
The Flash Update Tool updates the HDSP 9632 to the latest firmware version. It requires an
already installed driver.
Start the program hdsp_fut.exe. The Flash Update Tool displays the current revision of the
HDSP 9632, and whether it needs an update or not. If so, then please press the 'Update' button. A progress bar will indicate when the flash process is finished. The bar moves slowly first
(program), then faster (verify).
If more than one interface card is installed, all cards can be flashed by changing to the next tab
and repeating the process.
After the update the PCI card need to be resettet. This is done by powering down and shutting
off the PC. A warm boot is not enough!
When the update fails (status: failure), the card's second BIOS will be used from the next cold
boot on (Secure BIOS Technology). Therefore the card stays fully functional. The flash process
should then be tried again on a different computer.
: Because of the changed hardware revision, Windows 2000/XP will start the hardware
Note
assistant and wants to install new drivers. Do NOT let Windows search for new drivers, but
follow the instructions given in chapter 10.2.
11. Configuring the HDSP 9632
11.1 Settings Dialog
Configuration of the HDSP system HDSP 9632 is done via its own settings dialog. The panel
'Settings' can be opened:
• by clicking on the hammer symbol in the Task Bar's system tray
The mixer of the Hammerfall DSP Systems (TotalMix) can be opened:
• by clicking on the mixer icon in the Task Bar's system tray
The hardware of the HDSP system 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:
• Input selection
• Level of analog I/Os
• Configuration of digital I/Os
• Synchronization behaviour
• State of input and output
• Current sample rate
• Latency
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 the user precise information about the
current status of the system, and the status of all digital signals.
User's Guide HDSP System HDSP 9632 © RME
15
Options
SyncAlign guarantees synchronous channels when using WDM multitrack software. This option
should only be switched off in case the used software does not work correctly with SyncAlign
activated.
AEB activates the internal connector as ADAT input instead of the optical TOSLINK. An expansion board (AEB4-I, AEB8-I, TEB) can be connected here.
Buffer Size
The setting Buffer Size determines the latency between incoming and outgoing ASIO and GSIF
data, as well as affecting system stability (see chapter 13/14). Under Windows MME this setting
determines the DMA buffer size (see chapter 12.3).
SyncCheck
SyncCheck indicates
whether there is a valid
signal (Lock, No Lock) for
each input (Word Clock,
ADAT, SPDIF), or if there
is a valid and synchronous
signal (Sync). The Auto-
Sync Reference display
shows the input and frequency of the current sync
source.
SPDIF In
Defines the input for the
SPDIF signal. 'Optical'
relates to the optical
TOSLINK input, 'Coaxial'
to the RCA socket, 'Internal' to the jumper
CD/AEB/SYNC IN, 'AES'
to the optional XLR cable.
TMS activates the transmission of Channel Status data and Track Marker information of the
SPDIF input.
SPDIF Out
The SPDIF output signal is constantly available at the phono plug. After selecting 'Optical' it is
also routed to the optical TOSLINK output. For further details about the settings ‘Professional’,
‘Emphasis’ and ‘Non-Audio’, please refer to chapter 25.2.
SPDIF Freq.
Displays the sample rate of the signal at the SPDIF input.
Word Clock Out
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
sample rate, the output word clock is 48 kHz.
Clock Mode
The unit can be configured to use its internal clock source (Master), or the clock source predefined via Pref. Sync Ref (AutoSync).
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User's Guide HDSP System HDSP 9632 © RME
Pref. Sync Ref.
Used to pre-select the desired clock source. If the selected source isn't available, the unit will
change to the next available one. The current clock source and sample rate is displayed in the
AutoSync Ref display.
The automatic clock selection checks and changes
between the clock sources
Word Clock, ADAT and
SPDIF.
System Clock
Shows the current clock
state of the HDSP system.
The system is either Master (using its own clock) or
Slave (see AutoSync Ref).
Breakout Cable
Checking 'XLR' lowers the
analog Line output level by
6 dB. Using the balanced
XLR output cable then
results in correct reference
levels.
Input Level
Choice of the reference level and with this of the sensitivity of the analog Line input.
Output Level
Choice of the reference level and with this of the level at the analog Line output.
Phones
The volume at the headphone output can be adjusted separately from the Line output. The signal can be lowered by 6 or 12 dB, or completely switched off via Mute.
User's Guide HDSP System HDSP 9632 © RME
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11.2 Settings dialog - DDS
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 HDSP 9632 with regard to the needs of professional video
applications, as well as to maximum flexibility. The dialog DDS includes both a list of typical
video frequencies (so called pull up/pull down at 0.1% and 4%) and two faders, which allow to
freely change the basic sample rate in steps of 1 Hz (!).
The DDS dialog requires the HDSP 9632 to be in clock mode Master! The frequency setting will only be applied to this one specific card!
Changing the sample rate in bigger steps 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.
DDS
Activates all settings of this dialog.
Value
Shows the sample rate as adjusted in
this dialog. The sample rate is defined
by the basic setting (Frequency), the
multiplier, and the position of the activated fader.
Frequency
Sets a fixed basic sample rate, which
can be modified by multiplier and
fader.
Freq. Multiplier
Changes the basic sample rate into
Single, Double oder Quad Speed
mode.
Coarse
Fader for coarse modification of the
basic sample rate. Click Active to activate it. Minimum step size 1 Hz.
Fine
Fader for fine modification of the basic
sample rate. Click Active to activate it.
Minimum step size 1 Hz.
Notes on the faders
A mouse click within the fader area, above or below the fader know, will move the fader with the
smallest step size up or down. Holding the Ctrl key while clicking will cause the fader to jump to
its center (0).
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User's Guide HDSP System HDSP 9632 © RME
Application examples
DDS 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..
DDS allows to intentionally de-tune the complete DAW. This way, the DAW can match instruments which have a wrong or unchangeable tuning.
DDS allows to define a specific sample rate. This feature can be is useful in case the system
randomly changes the sample rate – for unknown reasons. It also prevents a change from Double Speed (96 kHz) to Single Speed (48 kHz), which would cause configuration and routing
problems by the changed amount of ADAT channels.
11.3 Clock Modes - Synchronisation
In the digital world, all devices are either the ‘Master’ (clock source) or a ‘Slave’ synchronized to
the master. Whenever several devices are linked within a system, there must always be a single master clock. The Hammerfall DSP’s intelligent clock control is very user-friendly, being able
to switch between clock modes automatically. Selecting AutoSync will activate this mode.
In AutoSync mode, the system
constantly scans all digital inputs
for a valid signal. If this signal
corresponds with the current
playback sample rate, the card
switches from the internal quartz
(AutoSync Ref displays 'Master')
to a clock generated from the
input signal (AutoSync Ref displays 'Slave'). This allows on-thefly recording, even during playback, without having to synchronize the card to the input signal
first. It also allows immediate
playback at any sample rate without having to reconfigure the
card.
AutoSync guarantees that normal
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 Hammerfall DSP, AutoSync may cause feedback in the digital carrier, so synchronization
breaks down. To remedy this, switch the HDSP’s clock mode over to 'Master'.
Remember that a digital system can only have one master! If the HDSP’s clock mode is set
to 'Master', all other devices must be set to ‘Slave’.
The Hammerfall DSP's ADAT optical input and the SPDIF input operate simultaneously. Because there is no input selector however, the HDSP has to be told which of the signals is the
sync reference (a digital device can only be clocked from a single source). This is why the system has been equipped with automatic clock source selection, which adopts the first available
input with a valid digital signal as the clock reference input. The input currently used as sync
reference is shown in the AutoSync Ref status field, together with its sample frequency.
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Via Pref. Sync Ref (preferred synchronization reference) a preferred input can be defined. As
long as the card sees a valid signal there, this input will be designated as the sync source, otherwise the other inputs will be scanned in turn. If none of the inputs are receiving a valid signal,
the card automatically switches clock mode to ‘Master’.
To cope with some situations which may arise in studio practice, setting ‘Pref Sync Ref’ is essential. One example: An ADAT recorder is connected to the ADAT input (ADAT immediately
becomes the sync 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, 'Pref Sync Ref' should be temporarily
set to SPDIF.
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. This is why digital systems always need a single device defined as ‘master’, which sends the same clock signal
to all the other (‘slave’) devices.
RME’s exclusive SyncCheck technology (first implemented in the Hammerfall) enables an easy
to use check and display of the current clock status. The ‘SyncCheck’ field indicates whether no
signal (‘No Lock’), a valid signal (‘Lock’) or a valid and synchronous signal (‘Sync’) is present at
each of the digital clock source inputs. The ‘AutoSync Ref’ display shows the current sync
source and the measured frequency.
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.
Thanks to its AutoSync technique and lightning fast PLLs, the HDSP is not only capable of handling standard frequencies, but also any sample rate between 28 and 200 kHz. Even the word
clock input, which most users will use in varispeed operation, allows any frequency between 28
kHz and 200 kHz.
At 88.2 or 96 kHz: If one of the ADAT inputs has been selected in Pref Sync Ref, the sample
frequency shown in the field SPDIF Freq. differs from the one shown in AutoSync Ref. The card
automatically switches to S/MUX mode here, because ADAT optical inputs and outputs are only
specified up to 48 kHz. Data from/to a single input/output is spread over two channels, the internal frequency stays at 44.1 or 48 kHz. In such cases, the ADAT sample frequency is only half
the SPDIF frequency.
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12. Operation and Usage
12.1 Playback
The HDSP system can play back audio data only in supported modes (channels, PCM) and
formats (sample rate, bit resolution). Otherwise an error message appears (for example at 22
kHz and 8 bit).
In the audio application being used, HDSP must be selected as output device. This can often be
found in the Options, Preferences or Settings menus under Playback Device, Audio Devices,
Audio etc.
We strongly recommend switching off all system sounds (via >Control Panel /Sounds<). Also
HDSP 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 buying a cheap Blaster clone and select this as Preferred Device in >Control Panel
/Multimedia /Audio<.
The screenshot shows a
typical configuration dialog
of a (stereo) wave editor.
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’.
The HDSP system’s ADAT optical interface allows sample rates of up to 96 kHz using a standard ADAT recorder. Single-channel data at this frequency requires two ADAT channels,
achieved using the Sample Multiplexing technique. This reduces the number of available ADAT
channels from 8 to 4. Under Windows MME, channels are routed to ADAT devices in doublespeed mode as follows:
• Only stereo pairs (1+2) and (3+4) of the ADAT port are available
This kind of implementation allows a problem-free usage of the ADAT port in both Single and
Double Speed, as the routing doesn't change. However, the hardware spreads the data differently: Channel 1 is transmitted via channels 1 and 2, channel 2 via 3 and 4 etc.
Please refer to the diagram in chapter 18.2. Routing for record and playback is identical.
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12.2 DVD-Playback (AC-3/DTS) under MME
AC-3 / DTS
When using popular DVD software player like WinDVD and PowerDVD, their audio data stream
can be sent to any AC-3/DTS capable receiver, using the Hammerfall DSP's SPDIF output. For
this to work the SPDIF output wave device has to be selected in >Control Panel/ Sounds and
Multimedia/ Audio<. Also check 'use preferred device only'.
You will notice that the DVD software's audio properties now allow to use 'SPDIF Out', 'Use
SPDIF' or to 'activate SPDIF output'. When selecting these, the software will transfer the nondecoded digital multichannel data stream to the Hammerfall DSP.
This 'SPDIF' signal sounds like chopped noise at highest level. Therefore the HDSP 9632 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 can also operate as software decoder, sending a DVD's multichannel data stream
directly to the analog outputs of the HDSP 9632. Supported are all modes, from 2 to 8 channels, at 16 bit resolution and 48 kHz sample rate. Playback via the ADAT output of the HDSP
9632 is also supported.
For this to work the option Interleaved has to be activated in the Settings dialog, an output wave
device of the HDSP has to be selected in >Control Panel/ Sounds and Audio Devices/ Audio<,
and 'Use only default devices' has to be checked. Additionally the loudspeaker setup, found
under >Volume/ Speaker Settings/ Advanced< has to be changed from Stereo to 5.1 Surround.
PowerDVD's and Win DVD's audio properties now lists several multichannel modes. If one of
these is selected, the software sends the decoded analog multichannel data to the HDSP.
The device selected as Preferred Playback Device defines the first playback channel.
The typical channel assignment for surround playback is:
1 (first chosen playback channel) - Left
2 - Right
3 - Center
4 - LFE (Low Frequency Effects)
5 - SR (Surround Right)
6 - SL (Surround Left)
Note 1
professional cards are not specialized to play back system sounds, and shouldn't be disturbed
by system events. To prevent this, be sure to re-assign this setting after usage, or to disable
any system sounds (tab Sounds, scheme 'No audio').
Note 2
Sync and/or word clock, the playback speed and pitch follows the incoming clock signal.
: Setting the card to be used as system playback device is against common sense, as
: The DVD player will be synced backwards from the HDSP card. So when using Auto-
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12.3 Notes on WDM
The driver offers a WDM streaming device per stereo pair, like HDSP 9632 (1+2). WDM
streaming is Microsoft's current driver and audio system, directly embedded into the operating
system. WDM streaming is nearly unusable 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. Therefore, for general operation, RME recommend not to use WDM devices.
WDM streaming also replaces the former DirectSound. Synthesizers and Samplers, which
achieved latencies below 10 ms using DirectSound, are forced to use WDM in Windows XP,
now operating at high latency. Meanwhile most of these programs support ASIO as low latency
driver interface.
Several programs do not offer any direct device selection. Instead they use the playback device
selected in Windows under <Control Panel/ Sounds and Multimedia/ Audio>. Such software
often requires the special functions provided by WDM, and therefore will operate better when
using a WDM device. Please note that selecting the HDSP to be used as system playback device is against our recommendations, as professional interfaces should not be disturbed by
system events.
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.
Because of the driver's multichannel streaming ability (option Interleaved, see chapter 12.4),
Sonar not only finds the stereo device mentioned above, but also the 8-channel interleaved
devices, and adds the channel number at the end:
HDSP 9632 (1+2) is the first stereo device
HDSP 9632 (3+4) is the next stereo device
HDSP 9632 (1+2) 3/4 are the channels 3/4 of the first 8-channel interleaved device.
We recommend to not use these special interleaved devices. Also note that it is not possible to
use one stereo channel twice (the basic and the interleaved device), even with different applications.
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12.4 Multi-client Operation
RME audio interfaces support multi-client operation. This means several programs can be used
at the same time. Also all formats (ASIO, WDM, GSIF) 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 channels at the same time.
If for example Cubase uses channels 1/2, this playback pair can't be used in Gigasampler/Studio (GSIF) nor under WDM (WaveLab etc.) anymore. This is no limitation at all, because
TotalMix allows any output routing, and with this a playback of multiple software via the same
hardware outputs. Note that the inputs can be used simultaneously, as the driver sends the
data to all applications at the same time.
ASIO Multi-client
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. Once again the same 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.
Multi-Client and Multi-Channel using WDM
The WDM streaming devices of our driver can operate as usual stereo devices, or as 8-channel
devices. The option Interleaved in the Settings dialog determines the current mode.
Interleaved not active: The WDM devices operate as usual stereo devices. The multi-client operation works as described above with WDM, ASIO and GSIF.
Interleaved active: The WDM devices can also be used as 8-channel devices. Unfortunately the
Kernel Mixer, active with any WDM playback, then always occupies and blocks 8 channels at
once, even when WaveLab or the Media Player perform just a stereo playback (2 channels).
So:
If any stereo pair within an 8-channel group is used, the whole 8-channel group is blocked.
As a result, no second stereo pair of this group can be used, neither with ASIO nor GSIF.
The eight 8-channel groups are channels 1 to 8 and 9 to 16.
Starting ASIO or GSIF playback on any of the stereo pairs of an 8-channel group prior to start-
ing a WDM playback will prevent the Kernel Mixer from opening the 8-channel device, as two of
its channels are already in use. The Kernel Mixer then automatically reverts to open a stereo
device for a stereo playback.
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12.5 Digital Recording
Unlike analog soundcards which produce empty wave files (or noise) when no input signal is
present, digital I/O cards always need a valid input signal to start recording.
To take this into account RME included a comprehensive I/O signal status display (showing
sample frequency, lock and sync status) in the Settings dialog.
The sample frequency shown in the Settings dialog (see chapter 11, screenshot Settings) is
useful as a quick display of the current configuration (the box 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, Hammerfall DSP displays the current sample frequency. This parameter
can then be changed in the application’s audio attributes (or similar) dialog.
The screenshot to the right shows a typical
dialog used for changing basic parameters
such as sample frequency and resolution in
an audio application.
Any bit resolution can be selected, providing it is supported by both the audio hardware and the software. Even if the input
signal is 24 bit, the application can still be
set to record at 16-bit resolution. The lower
8 bits (and therefore any signals about
96dB below maximum level) are lost entirely. On the other hand, there is nothing to
gain from recording a 16-bit signal at 24-bit
resolution - this would only waste precious space on the hard disk.
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 27).
An automated control of real-time monitoring can be achieved by Steinberg’s ASIO protocol
with our ASIO 2.0 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).
: Under MME the feature 'Check Input' prevented recordings done at wrong sample rates.
Note
Under WDM this functionality is limited. With Check Input activated Windows will automatically
(and without notice) perform a sample rate conversion. With Check Input deactivated the recording will simply be performed with the wrong sample rate, with a detuned playback later on.
Therefore Check Input has been removed from the Settings dialog of the WDM driver.
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12.6 Analog Recording
For recordings via the analog inputs the corresponding record device has to be chosen (HDSP
Analog (x+x)).
The input sensitivity of the analog inputs can be adjusted via the Settings dialog to meet the
most often used studio levels, see chapter 24.1.
13. Operation under ASIO 2.0
13.1 General
Start the ASIO software and select ASIO Hammerfall DSP as the audio I/O device. The 'ASIO
system control' button opens the HDSP's Settings dialog (see chapter 11 / 20, Configuration).
Hammerfall DSP supports
ASIO Direct Monitoring
(ADM). Please note that
currently Nuendo, Cubase
and Logic either do not
support ADM completely
or error-free.
At a sample rate of 88.2 or
96 kHz, the ADAT optical
input and output operate
in S/MUX mode, so the
number of available channels is reduced from 8 to
4.
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 best settings are the use of emulated MIDI driver/ports,
and the activation of the option 'Use System Timestamp'.
13.2 Known Problems
If a computer does not provide sufficient CPU-power and/or sufficient PCI-bus transfer rates,
then drop outs, crackling and noise will appear. We recommend to deactivate all PlugIns to
verify that these are not the reason for such effects.
Additional hard disk controllers, both on-board and PCI based, aften violate the PCI specs. To
achieve the highest throughput they hog the PCI bus, even in their default setting. Thus when
working with low latencies heavy drop outs (clicks) are heard. Try to solve this problem by
changing the default setting of the controller (for example by reducing the 'PCI Bus Utilization').
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 Hammerfall
DSP 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!
When using more than one HDSP system, all units have to be in sync, see chapter 15. Else a
periodicly repeated noise will be heared.
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14. Operation under GSIF (Gigasampler Interface)
Windows 2000/XP
The GSIF interface of the Hammerfall DSP allows direct operation with Gigastudio, with up to
18 channels, 96 kHz and 24 bit. The new GSIF 2.1 is also supported with both audio and MIDI.
Gigastudio requires a lot of the computer’s calculation power. An optimum performance is
achieved with a stand-alone GSIF PC. However, when using the Hammerfall DSP, the latency
is always the same as the one selected for ASIO operation. This can cause performance problems on slower machines when using GSIF and ASIO at the same time.
Please note that the W2k/XP driver fully supports multi-client operation, including the combination WDM/ASIO. So for example Cubase, Gigastudio and Sonar can be used simultaneously,
provided each of these programs uses its own audio channels exclusively. For example ASIO
could use channels 1/2 and Gigastudio (with GSIF) channels 3/4 simultaneously, and so on.
Simultaneous operation of GSIF and ASIO requires to use different channels. For example,
if Cubase uses tracks 1/2 these tracks can not be used by Gigastudio.
Common Problems
Please note that Gigastudio is running unexpectedly in the background (thus blocking its assigned audio channels), as soon as the Gigastudio MIDI ports are used – even when Gigastudio itself hasn't been started. This causes a lot of confusion, as the driver seems to behave
completely buggy, and the user does not recognize the simple reason for it – for example simultaneous operation of ASIO and GSIF on the same channels.
If Gigastudio starts up properly, loads gig files too, but won't play at all even when using the
virtual keyboard: Go to Hardware/Routing and select a valid MIDI input port. Note that blank is
not valid, but <none> is.
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