RME RAYDAT User manual
®
User's Guide
Hammerfall® DSP System
HDSPe RayDAT
TotalMix
™
24 Bit / 192 kHz 9
SyncAlign
2 + 2 + 32 Channels AES / SPDIF / ADAT Interface
ZLM® SyncCheck®
SteadyClock
™
PCI Express Digital I/O Card
24 Bit / 192 kHz Digital Audio
72 x 36 Matrix Router
2 x MIDI I/O
Quick Boot
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....................................................................9
Driver Installation and Operation - Windows
10 Driver and Firmware
10.1 Driver Installation .................................................12
10.2 Driver Update.......................................................12
10.3 De-Installing the Drivers.......................................13
10.4 Firmware Update..................................................13
11 Configuring the HDSPe RayDAT
11.1 Settings Dialog.....................................................14
11.2 Settings Dialog – DDS..........................................16
11.3 Clock Modes – Synchronization...........................17
12 Operation and Usage
12.1 Playback...............................................................19
12.2 DVD Playback (AC-3 / DTS)................................20
12.3 Notes on WDM.....................................................21
12.4 Channel Count under WDM.................................21
12.5 Multi-client Operation ...........................................22
12.6 Digital Recording..................................................23
13 Operation under ASIO
13.1 General ................................................................24
13.2 Channel Count under ASIO .................................24
13.3 Known Problems..................................................25
14 Operation under GSIF.............................................25
15 Using more than one HDSPe RayDAT..................26
16 DIGICheck................................................................26
17 Hotline – Troubleshooting
17.1 General ................................................................27
17.2 Installation............................................................28
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User's Guide HDSPe RayDAT © RME
Driver Installation and Operation - Mac OS X
18 Driver and Flash Update
18.1 Driver Installation.................................................30
18.2 Driver Update.......................................................30
18.3 Flash Update........................................................30
19 Configuring the HDSPe RayDAT
19.1 Settings Dialog.....................................................31
19.2 Settings Dialog – DDS.........................................32
19.3 Clock Modes – Synchronization..........................34
20 Mac OS X FAQ
20.1 Round about Driver Installation...........................35
20.2 Repairing Disk Permissions.................................35
20.3 MIDI doesn't work ................................................35
20.4 Various Information..............................................36
20.5 Supported Sample Rates.....................................36
20.6 Channel Count under Core Audio .......................36
21 Hotline – Troubleshooting .....................................37
Connections and TotalMix
22 Digital Connections
22.1 ADAT ...................................................................40
22.2 AES/EBU .............................................................40
22.3 SPDIF ..................................................................41
22.4 Word Clock ..........................................................42
22.5 MIDI .....................................................................42
23 Word Clock
23.1 Technical Description and Background...............43
23.2 Cables and Termination.......................................43
23.3 General Operation ...............................................44
24 TotalMix: Routing and Monitoring
24.1 Overview..............................................................45
24.2 The User Interface...............................................47
24.3 Elements of a Channel ........................................48
24.4 Tour de TotalMix..................................................48
24.5 Submix View ........................................................50
24.6 Mute and Solo......................................................50
24.7 Quick Access Panel.............................................51
24.8 Presets.................................................................51
24.9 Monitor Panel.......................................................53
24.10 Preferences..........................................................53
24.11 Editing the Names ...............................................54
24.12 Hotkeys................................................................55
24.13 Menu Options.......................................................56
24.14 Level Meter..........................................................57
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3
25 TotalMix: The Matrix
25.1 Overview..............................................................58
25.2 Elements of the Matrix View ................................58
25.3 Usage...................................................................58
25.4 Advantages of the Matrix.....................................59
26 TotalMix Super-Features
26.1 ASIO Direct Monitoring (Windows only) ..............59
26.2 Selection and Group based Operation ................60
26.3 Copy Routings to other Channels........................60
26.4 Delete Routings....................................................60
26.5 Recording a Subgroup (Loopback)......................61
26.6 Using external Effects Devices............................62
26.7 MS Processing.....................................................63
27 TotalMix MIDI Remote Control
27.1 Overview..............................................................64
27.2 Mapping ...............................................................64
27.3 Setup....................................................................65
27.4 Operation .............................................................65
27.5 Simple MIDI Control.............................................66
27.6 Loopback Detection.............................................67
Technical Reference
28 Tech Info ..................................................................70
29 Technical Specifications
29.1 Digital Inputs ........................................................71
29.2 Digital Outputs......................................................72
29.3 Digital...................................................................72
29.4 MIDI......................................................................72
30 Technical Background
30.1 Lock and SyncCheck...........................................73
30.2 Latency and Monitoring........................................74
30.3 DS – Double Speed .............................................75
30.4 QS – Quad Speed................................................75
30.5 AES/EBU – SPDIF...............................................76
30.6 SteadyClock.........................................................77
30.7 Terminology .........................................................78
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User's Guide HDSPe RayDAT © RME
User's Guide
HDSPe RayDAT
General
User's Guide HDSPe RayDAT © RME
5
1. Introduction
Thank you for choosing the RME Hammerfall DSP system. This unique audio system is capable
of transferring 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
at the very top of the range of computer-based audio interfaces.
The package contains drivers for Windows XP / Vista / 7 and Mac OS X x86 (Intel).
RME's 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 your HDSPe RayDAT package to include each of the following:
• HDSPe RayDAT PCI Express card
• HDSPe RayDAT expansion board
• Quick Info guide
• RME Driver CD
• Digital breakout cable (XLR / phono)
• MIDI breakout cable
• Internal cable (3-pin)
• Flat ribbon cable (14-pin)
• 2 optical cable (TOSLINK), 2 m (6.6 ft)
3. System Requirements
• Windows XP or higher, Mac OS X Intel (10.4.8 or higher)
• PCI Express Interface: one free PCI Express slot, 1 lane, version 1.1
4. Brief Description and Characteristics
• All settings can be changed in real-time
• AES and SPDIF I/Os can be used simultaneously
• 8 buffer sizes/latencies available: 0.7 / 1.5 / 3 / 6 / 12 / 23 / 46 / 93 ms
• 16 channels 96 kHz/24 bit record/playback via ADAT optical (S/MUX)
• 8 channels 192 kHz/24 bit record/playback via ADAT optical (S/MUX4)
• 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
• 2 x MIDI I/O, 16 channels high-speed MIDI
• DIGICheck DSP: Level meter in hardware, peak- and RMS calculation
• TotalMix: 2592 channel mixer with 42 bit internal resolution
• SteadyClock: Jitter-immune, super-stable digital clock
• Quick Boot technology for immediate loading of the hardware settings
• Optional Time Code module (TCO) for external Video-/SMPTE synchronization
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User's Guide HDSPe RayDAT © RME
5. Hardware Installation
Before installing the PCI Express card, please make sure the computer is switched off and
the power cable is disconnected from mains supply. Inserting or removing the 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 HDSPe RayDAT from its protective bag, discharge any static
in your body by touching the metal chassis of the PC.
4. Prior to installation: Connect the HDSPe RayDAT card to the Expansion Board using the
supplied flat ribbon cable.
5. Insert the HDSPe RayDAT firmly into a free PCI Express slot, press and fasten the screw.
6. Insert the Expansion Board and fasten the screw.
7. Replace the computer's housing.
8. Reconnect all cables including the power cord.
6. Hardware - Connectors
6.1 External Connectors
HDSPe RayDAT consists of the main PCIe board and an Expansion Board. All the essential
electronics are located on the PCI card, so it will also work without the Expansion Board.
The main board's bracket has
two ADAT optical inputs and
outputs, as well as a 9-pin D-
sub socket. AES/EBU and
coaxial SPDIF input and out-
put are provided via the included breakout cable,
whereby the red phono socket
is the output.
The Expansion Board's
bracket gives access to a third
and fourth ADAT optical input
and output.
ADAT4 can also be used as
optical SPDIF I/O, if set up
accordingly in the Settings
dialog.
The included MIDI breakout cable is connected to the 9-pin Mini-DIN connector, providing two
MIDI inputs and outputs.
: If neither MIDI I/O nor a third and fourth ADAT I/O are required, it is not necessary to in-
Note
stall the Expansion Board at all.
User's Guide HDSPe RayDAT © RME
7
6.2 Internal Connectors
AEB1 IN / CD IN
This internal digital input can be used with both SPDIF and ADAT format.
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 SPDIF output 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. Please note that the external SPDIF input can no longer be used.
ADAT
• Connection of 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 / TEB ADAT1 In in the Settings dialog.
• Connection of an AEB4-I or AEB8-I. When using these (no longer available) Expansion
Boards ST7 (X507) must also be connected to the Expansion Board. The highest sample
rate is 48 kHz. Select AEB /TEB ADAT1 In in the Settings dialog.
SPDIF OUT (X502)
Internal SPDIF output, operates in parallel to the coaxial output.
AEB2 IN
Connection of a second AEBx-I or TEB. Please note the label GND for correct polarity. Select
AEB / TEB ADAT2 In in the Settings dialog. In this configuration the optical input ADAT2 can
not be used anymore.
ADAT 1 OUT
This internal ADAT output carries the same audio data as the optical output ADAT1. 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. Please
note the label GND for correct polarity.
ADAT 2 OUT
This internal ADAT output carries the same audio data as the optical output ADAT2. See
ADAT1 OUT for details. Both ports can be used to operate one AEBx-O each, for a maximum of
16 analog outputs.
SYNC IN
Internal word clock input for synchronization of multiple cards via SYNC OUT.
SYNC OUT
This 3-pin connector carries an internal word clock signal. It can be used to synchronize multiple cards with sample accuracy, and without the need for an external connection. The card
where SYNC OUT is used is Master, the one with SYNC IN is Slave. In the Settings dialog the
Slave has to be set to Sync In under Pref. Sync Ref, the Clock Mode must be set to AutoSync.
WCM / TCO (X403)
10-pin connector to connect the optional 9632 Word Clock Module or the optional Time Code
Option (TCO) via flat ribbon cable.
X402
14-pin connector to connect the Expansion Board using flat ribbon cable.
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User's Guide HDSPe RayDAT © RME
7. Accessories
RME offers several optional accessories. Also parts of the HDSPe RayDAT 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.
BO968 Breakout cable SPDIF/AES
BOHDSP9652 Breakout cable MIDI
VKHDSP9652 Internal flat cable 14-pin
WCM9632 Word clock Expansion Board
TCOHDSP Time Code Option HDSPe series
TEB TDIF Expansion Board
8. Warranty
Each individual HDSPe 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.
RME 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.
9. Appendix
RME news, driver updates and further product information are available on our website:
http://www.rme-audio.de
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. DIGI96, SyncAlign, ZLM, SyncCheck, Hammerfall DSP, HDSPe RayDAT, SteadyClock, 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, 03/2010. Version 1.3
Current driver version: Windows: 3.083, Mac OS X: 2.71. Firmware 11
User's Guide HDSPe RayDAT © RME
9
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.
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 HDSPe
RayDAT.
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.
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User's Guide HDSPe RayDAT © RME
User's Guide
HDSPe RayDAT
Driver Installation and Operation - Windows
User's Guide HDSPe RayDAT © RME
11
10. Driver and Firmware
10.1 Driver Installation
After the HDSPe RayDAT 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 HDSPe RayDAT is ready for use.
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 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!
In Windows 7 Microsoft removed the automatic start of the Driver Software Update dialog. Therefore this dialog has to be started manually after the failed driver installation. Hit the Win key,
type 'Device Manager', start the Device Manager by selecting it from the list and hit Enter.
The device is shown with a yellow warning symbol. Usually it is already found in the correct
category, Sound, Video and Game Controller (Plug & Play detects a multimedia device). Right
click on the device and select 'Update Driver Software' from the context menu.
The dialog Update Driver Software appears. Now follow the instructions given below.
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
HDSPe AES /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/7: 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.
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User's Guide HDSPe RayDAT © RME
10.3 De-Installing the Drivers
A de-installation of the HDSP 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 de-installation request. This request can be found
(like all de-installation entries) in Control Panel, Software. Click on the entry 'RME Hammerfall
DSP (WDM)'.
10.4 Firmware Update
The Flash Update Tool updates HDSPe RayDAT to the latest version. It requires an already
installed driver.
Start the program pcie_fut.exe. The Flash Update Tool displays the current revision of the
HDSPe RayDAT, 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 Express card needs to be reset. 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 might start the hardware assistant
Note
and wants to install new drivers. Do NOT let Windows search for new drivers, but follow the
instructions given in chapter 10.2.
User's Guide HDSPe RayDAT © RME
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11. Configuring the HDSPe RayDAT
11.1 Settings Dialog
Configuration of the HDSPe RayDAT 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 system (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
• 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 display at the bottom of the dialog box gives precise information about the current
status of the system (Master/Slave, sample rate), and the status of all digital input signals.
Quick Boot
All the card's settings described below are stored in a hardware memory, and are loaded immediately after a power-on of the computer. In clock mode Master even the last used sample
rate is set. Directly after switching on the computer, a stable and predictable clock state is found
at the HDSPe RayDAT's outputs. This advanced technology completely eliminates disturbing
noises and clock network problems during power-up or reboot.
WDM Devices
Not before Vista the OS had been capable to handle more than 32 WDM stereo devices. Therefore under W2k/XP it often makes sense to intentionally limit their number. Otherwise channels
or MIDI ports might vanish from the system.
AEB / TEB
ADAT1 In switches the input ADAT1 from the optical connector to the internal connector AEB 1
In / CD In. Here an Expansion Board (AEB4-I, AEB8-I, TEB) can be connected.
ADAT2 In switches the input ADAT2 from the optical connector to the internal connector AEB2
In. Here an Expansion Board (AEB4-I, AEB8-I, TEB) can be connected.
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SPDIF Out
The SPDIF output signal is constantly available at the phono plug. After selecting 'ADAT4' it is
also routed to the optical TOSLINK output ADAT4. For further details about the setting ‘Professional’ please refer to chapter 22.2.
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). GSIF and
WDM can be set from 32 to 512
samples. Above 512, only ASIO is
affected.
Options
SyncAlign guarantees synchronous channels when using WDM
multi-track software. This option
should only be switched off in
case the used software does not
work correctly with SyncAlign
activated.
With Interleaved activated, WDM
devices can be used as 8-channel
devices (see chapter 12.3).
TMS activates the transmission of
Channel Status data and Track
Marker information from the
SPDIF and AES input signals.
SPDIF In
Defines the input for the SPDIF signal. 'Coaxial' relates to the RCA socket, 'Optical' to the
optical TOSLINK input ADAT4, 'Internal' to the jumper 'AEB1 In/CD In'.
Input Status / Pref. Sync Ref
SyncCheck indicates whether there is a valid signal (Lock, No Lock) for each input (ADAT 1-4,
SPDIF, AES, Word/TCO and internal Sync), or if there is a valid and synchronous signal (Sync).
In the third column the sample rate measured by the hardware is shown.
The fourth column is used to pre-select the desired clock source. If the selected source isn't
available, the unit will change to the next available one automatically. The current clock source
and sample rate is displayed in the System Clock field.
The automatic clock selection checks and changes between the clock sources ADAT1-4, AES,
SPDIF, Word/TCO and Sync Internal.
User's Guide HDSPe RayDAT © RME
15
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).
System Clock
Shows the current clock state of the HDSPe system. The system is either Master (using its own
clock) or Slave.
About
This tab includes information about the driver and the card’s firmware version.
Lock Registry uses a password to prevent changes of the settings stored in the registry. All
settings are still changeable temporarily. As the settings are always loaded from the registry
when starting the computer, this method provides an easy way to define a specific initial state of
the HDSP system.
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 HDSPe RayDAT 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 (!).
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.
The DDS dialog requires the HDSPe RayDAT 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.
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User's Guide HDSPe RayDAT © RME
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 or 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) position.
11.3 Clock Modes - Synchronisation
In the digital world, all devices are either the ‘Master’ (clock source) or a ‘Slave’. 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.
Remember that a digital system can only have one master! If the HDSPe clock mode is set
to 'Master', all other devices must be set to ‘Slave’.
The HDSPe RayDAT’s intelligent clock control is very user-friendly, being able to switch between clock modes automatically. Selecting AutoSync will activate this mode.
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'.
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17
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
(System Clock - Mode Master) to a clock generated from the input signal (System Clock - Mode
Slave). A difference to usual slave behaviour is that when the input signal is lost the card will
immediately switch back to the internal clock, into Master mode.
With the HDSPe RayDAT all inputs operate simultaneously. However, as there is no input selector, the HDSPe has to be told which one of the signals is the sync reference (a digital device
can only be clocked from a single source).
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 ADAT1 input (ADAT1
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.
RME’s exclusive SyncCheck technology enables an easy to use check and display of the cur-
rent clock status. The status box labelled Input Status 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.
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 HDSPe is not only capable of
handling standard frequencies, but also any sample rate between 28 and 200 kHz.
The HDSPe’s outstanding clock control allows for a synchronization of the output signal to the
word clock input signal not only at identical sample rates, but also at half, quarter, double and
quad sample rates. A playback of 192 kHz can easily be synchronized via a 48 kHz word clock
signal.
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User's Guide HDSPe RayDAT © RME
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 to the
right shows a typical
configuration dialog of a
(stereo) wave editor.
After selecting a device,
audio data is sent to
either an ADAT or
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/7
Since Vista the audio application can no longer control the sample rate under WDM. Instead the
user has to work himself through numerous settings, and to set the sample rate to the exact
same value per stereo device.
:
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19
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 via the RayDAT’s AES and SPDIF output. For this to work an output wave device 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 these, the software will transfer the non-decoded digital multichannel data stream to the
HDSPe RayDAT.
: This 'SPDIF' signal sounds like chopped noise at highest level. The first 2 channels
Note
(Loudspeaker) do not support digital AC-3/DTS playback.
Multichannel
PowerDVD and WinDVD can also operate as software decoder, sending a DVD's multichannel
data stream directly to the outputs of the HDSPe RayDAT. Supported are all modes, from 2 to 8
channels, at 16 bit resolution and 48 kHz sample rate.
For this to work select the WDM playback device ’Loudspeaker’ of the HDSPe RayDAT in
XP: >Control Panel/ Sounds and Multimedia/ Audio<, and 'Use only default devices' has to be
checked. Additionally the loudspeaker setup, found under >Volume/ Speaker Settings/ Ad-
vanced< has to be changed from Stereo to 5.1 Surround.
Vista/7: >Control Panel/ Sound/ Playback < as ‘Standard’. Additionally the loudspeaker setup,
found under >Configuration<, has to be changed from Stereo to 5.1 Surround.
PowerDVD's and WinDVD's audio properties now list several multichannel modes. If one of
these is selected, the software sends the decoded analog multichannel data to the HDSPe
RayDAT. TotalMix can then be used to play back via any desired output channels.
The typical channel assignment for surround playback is:
1 (first chosen playback channel) - Left
2 - Right
3 - Center
4 - LFE (Low Frequency Effects)
5 - SL (Surround Left)
6 - SR (Surround Right)
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 HDSPe card. So when using Auto-
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User's Guide HDSPe RayDAT © RME
12.3 Notes on WDM
The driver offers a WDM streaming device per stereo pair, like RayDAT ADAT (1+2). WDM
streaming is Microsoft's current driver and audio system, directly embedded into the operating
system. WDM streaming is hardly usable for professional music purposes, as all data is processed by the so called Kernel Mixer, causing a latency of at least 30 ms. Additionally, WDM can
perform sample rate conversions unnoticed, cause offsets between record and playback data,
block channels unintentionally and much more.
Several programs do not offer any direct device selection. Instead they use the playback device
selected in Windows under
XP: <Control Panel/ Sounds and Multimedia/ Audio>
Vista/7: <Control Panel/ Sound/ Playback>
The program Sonar from Cakewalk is unique in many ways. Sonar uses the so called WDM
Kernel Streaming, bypassing the WDM mixer, thus achieves a similar performance to ASIO.
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:
RayDAT ADAT (1+2) is the first stereo device
RayDAT ADAT (3+4) is the next stereo device
RayDAT ADAT (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.
12.4 Channel Count under WDM
The HDSP system’s ADAT optical interfaces allow to record 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 RayDAT changes into Double Speed (88.2/96 kHz) or Quad Speed
mode (176.4/192 kHz) all devices stay present, but are partly inactive.
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WDM Stereo device Double Speed Quad Speed
RayDAT ADAT (1+2) RayDAT ADAT (1+2) RayDAT ADAT (1+2)
RayDAT ADAT (3+4) RayDAT ADAT (3+4) RayDAT ADAT (3+4)
RayDAT ADAT (5+6) RayDAT ADAT (5+6) RayDAT ADAT (5+6)
RayDAT ADAT (7+8) RayDAT ADAT (7+8) RayDAT ADAT (7+8)
RayDAT ADAT (9+10) RayDAT ADAT (9+10) RayDAT ADAT (9+10)
RayDAT ADAT (11+12) RayDAT ADAT (11+12) RayDAT ADAT (11+12)
RayDAT ADAT (13+14) RayDAT ADAT (13+14) RayDAT ADAT (13+14)
RayDAT ADAT (15+16) RayDAT ADAT (15+16) RayDAT ADAT (15+16)
RayDAT ADAT (17+18) RayDAT ADAT (17+18) RayDAT ADAT (17+18)
RayDAT ADAT (19+20) RayDAT ADAT (19+20) RayDAT ADAT (19+20)
RayDAT ADAT (21+22) RayDAT ADAT (21+22) RayDAT ADAT (21+22)
RayDAT ADAT (23+24) RayDAT ADAT (23+24) RayDAT ADAT (23+24)
RayDAT ADAT (25+26) RayDAT ADAT (25+26) RayDAT ADAT (25+26)
RayDAT ADAT (27+28) RayDAT ADAT (27+28) RayDAT ADAT (27+28)
RayDAT ADAT (29+30) RayDAT ADAT (29+30) RayDAT ADAT (29+30)
RayDAT ADAT (31+32) RayDAT ADAT (31+32) RayDAT ADAT (31+32)
RayDAT AES RayDAT AES RayDAT AES
RayDAT SPDIF RayDAT SPDIF RayDAT SPDIF
12.5 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 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. 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.
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User's Guide HDSPe RayDAT © RME
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 the Loudspeaker device 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.
Starting ASIO or GSIF playback on any of the stereo pairs of an 8-channel group prior to starting 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.
An 8-channel playback using the Windows Media Player requires the speaker setup 7.1 Sur-
round. Configure as follows:
XP: >Control Panel /Sounds and Multimedia /Audio /Volume /Speaker Settings /Advanced <
Vista/7: >Control Panel /Sound /Playback /Loudspeaker /Configure <
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.
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23
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 24).
An automated control of real-time monitoring can be achieved by Steinberg’s ASIO protocol
with our ASIO drivers and all ASIO 2 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).
13. Operation under ASIO
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
HDSPe Settings dialog (see
chapter 11, Configuration).
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. As some channels are removed, SPDIF and AES move up in the list. This may require a reset of the I/O list in
the audio software, and will require a reassignment of the channels within the project.
Mono channel Double Speed Quad Speed
RayDAT ADAT 1 to 8 RayDAT ADAT 1 to 8 RayDAT ADAT 1 to 8
RayDAT ADAT 9 to 16 RayDAT ADAT 9 to 16 RayDAT AES L / R
RayDAT ADAT 17 to 32 RayDAT AES L / R RayDAT SPDIF L / R
RayDAT AES L / R RayDAT SPDIF L / R
RayDAT SPDIF L / R
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