RME Audio HDSP AES-32 User Manual
®
User's Guide
Hammerfall® DSP System
HDSP AES-32
TotalMix
™
24 Bit / 192 kHz 9
SyncAlign
ZLM® SyncCheck®
SteadyClock
™
PCI Busmaster Digital I/O Card
32 Channels AES/EBU Interface
24 Bit / 192 kHz Digital Audio
32 x 16 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...............................................................8
8 Warranty.....................................................................8
9 Appendix....................................................................9
Driver Installation and Operation - Windows
10 Driver and Firmware
10.1 Driver Installation .................................................12
10.2 Driver Update.......................................................12
10.3 Deinstalling the Drivers........................................12
10.4 Firmware Update..................................................13
11 Configuring the HDSP AES-32
11.1 Settings Dialog.....................................................13
11.2 Settings Dialog – DDS .........................................15
11.3 Clock Modes – Synchronization...........................16
12 Operation and Usage
12.1 Playback...............................................................18
12.2 DVD Playback (AC-3 / DTS)................................19
12.3 Notes on WDM.....................................................20
12.4 Multi-client Operation ...........................................20
12.5 Digital Recording..................................................22
13 Operation under ASIO 2.0
13.1 General ................................................................23
13.2 Known Problems..................................................23
14 Operation under GSIF.............................................24
15 Using multiple HDSP AES-32.................................25
16 DIGICheck................................................................25
17 Hotline – Troubleshooting
17.1 General ................................................................26
17.2 Installation............................................................27
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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 HDSP AES-32
19.1 Settings Dialog.....................................................31
19.2 Settings Dialog – DDS.........................................33
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 ................................................36
20.4 Supported Sample Rates.....................................36
20.5 Various Information..............................................36
21 Hotline – Troubleshooting .....................................37
Connections and TotalMix
22 Connections
22.1 AES/EBU Inputs...................................................40
22.2 AES/EBU Outputs................................................41
22.3 MIDI .....................................................................42
23 Word Clock
23.1 Word Clock Input and Output..............................43
23.2 Technical Description and Background...............44
23.3 Cables and Termination.......................................45
23.4 General Operation................................................45
24 TotalMix: Routing and Monitoring
24.1 Overview..............................................................46
24.2 The User Interface...............................................48
24.3 Elements of a Channel ........................................49
24.4 Tour de TotalMix..................................................49
24.5 Submix View ........................................................51
24.6 Mute and Solo......................................................51
24.7 Quick Access Panel.............................................52
24.8 Presets.................................................................52
24.9 Monitor Panel.......................................................54
24.10 Preferences........................................................54
24.11 Editing the Names..............................................55
24.12 Hotkeys..............................................................56
24.13 Menu Options.....................................................57
24.14 Level Meter ........................................................58
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25 TotalMix: The Matrix
25.1 Overview..............................................................59
25.2 Elements of the Matrix View ................................59
25.3 Usage...................................................................59
25.4 Advantages of the Matrix.....................................60
26 TotalMix Super-Features
26.1 ASIO Direct Monitoring (Windows only) ..............60
26.2 Selection and Group based Operation ................61
26.3 Copy Routings to other Channels........................61
26.4 Delete Routings....................................................61
26.5 Recording a Subgroup (Loopback)......................62
26.6 Using external Effects Devices............................63
26.7 MS Processing.....................................................64
27 TotalMix MIDI Remote Control
27.1 Overview..............................................................65
27.2 Mapping ...............................................................65
27.3 Setup....................................................................66
27.4 Operation .............................................................66
27.5 Simple MIDI Control.............................................67
27.6 Loopback Detection.............................................68
Technical Reference
28 Tech Info ..................................................................70
29 Technical Specifications
29.1 Inputs ...................................................................71
29.2 Outputs.................................................................71
29.3 Digital...................................................................72
29.4 MIDI......................................................................72
30 Technical Background
30.1 AES/EBU - SPDIF................................................73
30.2 Lock and SyncCheck...........................................74
30.3 Latency and Monitoring........................................75
30.4 DS – Double Speed .............................................76
30.5 QS – Quad Speed................................................76
30.6 SteadyClock.........................................................77
30.7 Terminology .........................................................78
30.8 Connector Pinouts................................................79
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User's Guide HDSP AES-32 © RME
User's Guide
HDSP AES-32
General
User's Guide HDSP AES-32 © RME
5
1. Introduction
Thank you for choosing the HDSP AES-32. This unique audio system is capable of transferring
digital audio data directly into a computer, from any device equipped with a AES/EBU or SPDIF
interface. Installation is simple, even for the inexperienced user, thanks to the latest Plug and
Play technology. The numerous unique features and well thought-out configuration dialog puts
the Hammerfall DSP AES at the very top of the range of digital audio interface cards.
The package contains drivers for Windows 2000 SP4, Windows XP, Vista /64 and Mac OS X
PPC.
Our high-performance philosophy guarantees maximum system performance by executing as
many functions as possible not in the driver (i.e. the CPU), but directly within the audio hardware.
2. Package Contents
Please check your HDSP AES-32 package contains each of the following:
• HDSP AES-32 PCI card
• HDSP AES-32 expansion board
• Quick Info guide
• RME Driver CD
• MIDI breakout cable
• Expansion Board ribbon cable (26-conductor)
3. System Requirements
• Windows 2000 SP4 or higher, Mac OS X PPC (10.2.8 or higher)
• PCI Interface: a free PCI rev. 2.1 Busmaster slot
4. Brief Description and Characteristics
• All settings can be changed in real-time
• 8 buffer sizes/latencies available: 0.7 / 1.5 / 3 / 6 / 12 / 23 / 46 / 93 ms
• 32 channels 192 kHz/24 bit record/playback
• Automatic and intelligent master/slave clock control
• Word clock input and output
• 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, 32 channels high-speed MIDI
• DIGICheck DSP: Level meter in hardware, peak- and RMS calculation
• TotalMix: 512 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 HDSP AES-32 © 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 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 HDSP AES-32 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 AES-32 card to the Expansion Board using the supplied flat ribbon cable.
5. Insert the HDSP AES-32 firmly into a free PCI 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
The bracket of the mainboard has a D-sub 25 pin
connector providing
AES/EBU inputs and
outputs 1-4, and BNC
sockets providing word
clock input and output.
The D-sub connector
uses the Tascam pinout
(details see chapter
30.8).
Breakout and connection cables with this pinout are widely available.
The Expansion Board's
bracket has AES/EBU
inputs and outputs 5-8 via
a second D-sub 25 connector. The included
breakout cable is connected to the 9-pin Mini-
DIN connector and provides two MIDI inputs and
outputs via four 5-pin DIN
connectors.
: If neither AES I/O 5-8 nor MIDI I/O are required, it is not necessary to install the Expan-
Note
sion Board at all.
Optional TCO
The optional Time Code Option is connected to the mainboard with a 10-pin flat ribbon cable.
Further details can be found in the TCO's manual.
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7
6.2 Internal Connectors
Expansion Board (X404)
26-pin connector for the included HDSP AES-32 Expansion Board.
TCO (X403)
10-pin connector for a connection of the optional Time Code Option (TCO).
SYNC IN (X400)
Internal word clock input for synchronization of multiple cards via SYNC OUT.
SYNC OUT (X401)
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.
X200
No function. Used to program the card in the factory.
Expansion Board - Blue Jumper
Controls termination of the word clock input. Changing the jumper to the position oriented towards the center of the PCB (see printed label on the PCB), the word clock input is terminated
with 75 Ohms.
7. Accessories
RME offers several optional components. Additionally parts of the HDSP AES-32, like the special breakout cables, are available separately.
Part Number Description
BOHDSP9652 MIDI breakout cable
VKHDSPAES32 26-conductor flat ribbon cable
BO25MXLR4M4F3 Digital breakout cable AES/EBU, 9.9 ft (3 m)
BO25MXLR4M4F6 Digital breakout cable AES/EBU, 19.8 ft (6 m)
BOBDSUB25T Digital connection cable 25 pin D-sub, Tascam pinout
BOB32 BOB-32, Universal Breakout Box, 19"
TCOHDSP Time Code Option HDSPe series
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.
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.
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User's Guide HDSP AES-32 © RME
9. Appendix
RME news, driver updates and further product information are available on our website:
http://www.rme-audio.de
Manufacturer:
IMM Elektronik GmbH, Leipziger Strasse 32, D-09648 Mittweida, Germany
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 MADI, HDSP AES-32, 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, 08/2008. Version 1.1
Current driver version: W2k/XP: 3.066, Mac OS X: 2.53
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.
User's Guide HDSP AES-32 © RME
9
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
AES-32.
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 HDSP AES-32 © RME
User's Guide
HDSP AES-32
Driver Installation and Operation - Windows
User's Guide HDSP AES-32 © RME
11
10. Driver and Firmware
10.1 Driver Installation
After the HDSP AES-32 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 AES-32 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.
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 AES-32 © RME
10.4 Firmware Update
The Flash Update Tool updates the HDSP AES-32 to the latest firmware version. It requires an
already installed driver.
Start the program hdsp_wdm_fut.exe. The Flash Update Tool displays the current revision of
the HDSP AES-32, 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 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 2000/XP might 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 AES-32
11.1 Settings Dialog
Configuration of the HDSP AES-32 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 HDSP AES-32 (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 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 AES-32 © RME
13
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 HDSP AES-32 outputs. This advanced technology completely eliminates disturbing
noises and clock network problems during power-up or re-boot.
Options
With Interleaved activated, WDM devices can be used as 8-channel devices (see chapter 12.3).
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.
TMS activates the transmission of Channel Status data and Track Marker information from the
AES/EBU input signal.
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 and
192 kHz sample rate, the output word
clock is 48 kHz.
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).
Clock Mode
The unit can be configured to use its
internal clock source (Master), or the
clock source pre-defined via Pref.
Sync Ref (AutoSync).
System Clock
Shows the current clock state of the HDSP system. The system is either Master (using its own
clock) or Slave (see Pref. Sync Ref).
Output Format
Double Speed: Sample rates in the range of 64 kHz to 96 kHz can also be transmitted using the
standard 48K frame. Note that when selecting Double Wire the number of output channels is
reduced to 8.
Quad Speed: Sample rates in the range of 128 kHz to 192 kHz can also be transmitted using
either the standard 48K frame, or the 96K frame. Note that when selecting Double Wire the
number of output channels is reduced to 8. When selecting Quad Wire the number of remaining
output channels is 4.
For further details about the settings ‘Professional’, ‘Emphasis’ and ‘Non-Audio’, please refer to
chapter 22.2.
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Input Status
SyncCheck indicates whether there is a valid signal (Lock) for the inputs Word Clock and AES 1
to 8, or if there is a valid and synchronous signal (Sync). The System Clock Mode display
shows the input and frequency of the current sync source. Each input has its own frequency
measurement and display of the input signal's current sample rate.
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
System Clock field.
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 AES-32 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 MADI channels.
The DDS dialog requires the HDSP AES-32 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.
User's Guide HDSP AES-32 © RME
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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) position.
11.3 Clock Modes - Synchronisation
AutoSync
The HDSP AES-32 has been equipped with AutoSync, an 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 'System Clock' status field, together with
its current sample frequency.
AutoSync guarantees that normal record and record-while-play will always work correctly. In
certain cases however, AutoSync may cause feedback in the digital carrier, so synchronization
breaks down. To remedy this, switch the HDSP’s clock mode over to 'Master'.
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’.
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.
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User's Guide HDSP AES-32 © RME
The HDSP AES-32 outstanding clock control allows for a synchronization of the output signal to
the word clock's 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.
SyncCheck
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 HDSP AES clock mode is
set to Master, all other devices must be set to Slave.
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.
User's Guide HDSP AES-32 © RME
17
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 as displayed by a (stereo) wave
editor. After selecting one of the eight stereo playback devices, audio data is sent to the according audio channels.
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’.
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User's Guide HDSP AES-32 © RME
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 via the HDSP AES-32. For this to work an 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 HDSP.
This 'SPDIF' signal sounds like chopped noise at highest level. Therefore the HDSP AES-32
automatically activates the non-audio bit in the digital data stream, to prevent most SPDIF receivers from accepting the signal, and to prevent any attached equipment from being damaged.
Multichannel
PowerDVD and WinDVD can also operate as software decoder, sending a DVD's multichannel
data stream directly to the HDSP AES-32 outputs. Supported are all modes, from 2 to 8 channels, at 16 bit resolution and 48 kHz sample rate.
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 list several multichannel modes. If one of
these is selected, the software sends the decoded ‘analog’ multichannel data to the HDSP
AES-32.
The device selected as Default Sound playback device defines the first playback channel. Note
that this device can not be chosen freely. An interleaved playback with more than 2 channels
can only be done in blocks of eight channels. Therefore the starting device has to be channel
1/2 or 9/10.
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 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 AES (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 AES-32 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 11.1),
Sonar not only finds the stereo device mentioned above, but also the 8-channel interleaved
devices, and adds the channel number at the end:
AES (1+2) is the first stereo device
AES (3+4) is the next stereo device
AES (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 Multi-client Operation
RME audio interfaces support multi-client operation. This means several programs can be used
at the same time. Also all formats, like ASIO, MME and 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 Gigastudio (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 on the same hardware outputs.
Note that the inputs can be used at the same time, as the driver sends the data to all applications simultaneously.
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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.
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 two 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.
An 8-channel playback using the Windows Media Player requires the speaker setup 7.1 Sur-
round under >Volume/ Speaker Settings/ Advanced<.
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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, HDSP AES-32 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 24).
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).
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.
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13. Operation under ASIO 2.0
13.1 General
Start the ASIO software
and select ASIO Hammer-
fall DSP as the audio I/O
device. The 'ASIO system
control' button opens the
HDSP's Settings dialog
(see chapter 11 / 19, Configuration).
13.2 Known Problems
If a computer does not provide sufficient CPU-power and/or sufficient PCIe-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.
Hammerfall DSP supports ASIO Direct Monitoring (ADM). Please note that currently Nuendo,
Cubase and Logic either do not support ADM completely or error-free. The most often reported
problem is the wrong behaviour of panorama in a stereo channel.
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'.
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14. Operation under GSIF (Gigasampler Interface)
The GSIF interface of the HDSP AES-32 allows direct operation with Gigastudio, with up to 16
channels, 192 kHz and 24 bit. GSIF 2.0 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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