Steinberg MR816csx, MR816x Operation Manual

Introduction

Thank you for purchasing the ADVANCED INTEGRATION DSP STUDIO MR816 CSX/MR816 X. This comprehensive audio interface allows you to transfer the sound of your instruments (keyboards, guitars, microphones) to the DAW software (such as Cubase) on your computer, as well as process and monitor the DAW sound—all through a single IEEE1394 cable. Moreover, the sophisticated Link function provides seamless operation and convenient studio-like monitoring options. The MR816 CSX/ MR816 X comes with two manuals: “Getting Started” (printed booklet) and “Operation Manual” (this PDF document). The Getting Started manual provides basic instructions on setting up, installing required software, making connections, recording to your computer and so on. This Operation Manual is a comprehensive, detailed guide to the functions and features of the device. Please read the Getting Started manual ﬁrst, followed by this manual, in order to get the most out of the device and enjoy trouble-free operation for years to come.

Main Features

Link with Cubase

Install the included software and you can link the MR816 CSX/MR816 X with Cubase for seamless operation–for example, monitoring the Cubase-mixed sound with no latency, and one-button-press assignment of audio inputs to Cubase tracks. Owners of Cubase 4.5.1 or later can also use the convenient Control Room feature with the MR816. For details about the Link function, refer to page 9.

*1 This product is designed assuming that Cubase 4.5.1 or later is used. The Cubase versions that are compatible with the

Link function are version 4.5.1 or later, such as Cubase 4.5.1 and Cubase AI 4.5.1.

(*1)

High-quality sound

The MR816 CSX/MR816 X is equipped with eight discrete head ampliﬁers using the Inverted Darlington Circuitry Design, for superior, highly musical sound with minimal distortion and noise.

Mixer function and useful monitoring

The mixer function (with DSP processor) lets you input up to sixteen channels of audio and mix down to eight channels of stereo. Two of these stereo outputs can be assigned for separate monitoring through headphones connected to the PHONE jacks on the front panel. What’s more, the monitor sound can be processed with the REV-X reverb effect, allowing you to have a full and natural monitor sound without latency delays.

Versatile input/output jacks for professional studio use

The MR816 CSX/MR816 X is equipped with eight mono input jacks (MIC/LINE/HI-Z jack and MIC/LINE jack on the front panel and MIC/LINE/INPUT jacks on the rear panel) which accept both XLR-3-31 and TRS phone plug type connectors. In addition, each of these jacks provides a [PAD] button which enables connection of a wide range of instruments and devices-from condenser microphones to synthesizers and other line-level instruments. The MIC/LINE/HI-Z jack is compatible with HI-Z (high impedance) inputs, allowing you to connect instruments with high output impedance, such as electric guitar or bass. The MIC/LINE/HI-Z jack and MIC/LINE jack are routed to the INSERT I/O jacks on the rear panel, letting you apply a desired effect (different from the internal one) to the sound already input from the external device. Furthermore, the WCL (Word Clock) jack and the digital jacks are also provided for comprehensive compatibility with devices and applications in professional studios.

REV-X effect

The MR816 CSX/MR816 X is equipped with the REV-X Effect, a high-quality digital reverb effect unit which can be applied to all input channels. When connecting the MR816 CSX/MR816 X to a computer, this reverb can be applied to the input signal coming from the DAW software as well as the sound from audio equipment such as keyboards, guitars and microphones. In addition, a dedicated window lets you create more detailed settings for this effect unit.

Sweet Spot Morphing Channel Strip effect (MR816 CSX only)

The MR816 CSX is equipped with eight independent blocks of the Sweet Spot Morphing Channel Strip effect using the new Sweet Spot Morphing Technology developed by Yamaha. These give you a variety of specially programmed compressor/ equalizer settings into which are distilled years of extensive professional engineering experience, letting you quickly and easily achieve professional-level results for your sound by simple panel operations. When connecting the MR816 CSX to a computer, this effect can be applied to the audio signal transferred/recorded to the DAW software (such as Cubase) as well as the sound from audio equipment such as keyboards, guitars and microphones. In addition, a dedicated window lets you create more detailed settings for this effect unit.

Daisy-chain connection of up to three devices

Up to three MR816 CSX/MR816 Xs (two devices when the Sample Rate is set to 88.2 kHz or 96 kHz) can be connected in daisy-chain fashion. You can expand the input/output channels simply by connecting the MR816 CSX/MR816 X additionally to the existing device via an IEEE1394 cable.

Operation Manual

Main Features

Introduction ................................... 2

Main Features ................................ 2

The Controls and Connectors .......4

Front Panel ....................................................................... 4

Rear Panel........................................................................ 7

Internal Structure of the

MR816 CSX/MR816 X ..................... 8

Using the MR816 CSX/MR816 X

with Cubase ................................... 9

What you can do using the MR816 CSX/MR816 X with

Cubase ............................................................................. 9

Start your recording session! .......................................... 10

Connections .............................................................. 10

Setting up on the computer ....................................... 11

Setting up for recording............................................. 13

Try recording ............................................................. 18

Using the built-in effect of the MR816 as a VST

plug-in of Cubase............................................................ 19

Dedicated windows for the MR816 CSX/MR816 X in Cubase

MR816 CSX/MR816 X Input Settings window................ 21

How to call up the window......................................... 21

Parameter functions .................................................. 22

MR816 CSX/MR816 X Hardware Setup window............ 23

How to call up the window......................................... 23

Parameter functions .................................................. 23

REV-X............................................................................. 25

How to call up the window......................................... 25

Parameter functions .................................................. 25

Sweet Spot Morphing Channel Strip (MR816 CSX only)

How to call up the window......................................... 27

Parameter functions .................................................. 28

Control Panel .................................................................. 30

How to call up the window......................................... 30

Parameter functions .................................................. 30

... 21

.... 27

MR Editor ..................................... 33

Main window ............................................................. 33

Setup window............................................................ 41

Using a DAW other than Cubase

... 42

Using multiple MR816 CSX/

MR816 Xs..................................... 43

Using the MR816 CSX/MR816 X

without a computer ..................... 44

Appendix...................................... 45

Hints when using audio data (Windows) ........................ 45

Troubleshooting.............................................................. 46

Specifications ................................................................. 48

Error Messages .............................................................. 49

Block Diagrams .............................................................. 50

MR816 X ................................................................... 50

MR816 CSX .............................................................. 52

Special Notice

• This manual is the exclusive copyrights of Yamaha Corporation.

• The screen displays as illustrated in this manual are for instructional purposes, and may appear somewhat different from the screens which appear on your computer.

• This product incorporates and bundles computer programs and contents in which Steinberg Media Technologies GmbH and Yamaha Corporation own copyrights or with respect to which it has license to use others’ copyrights. Such copyrighted materials include, without limitation, all computer software, style ﬁles, MIDI ﬁles, WAVE data, musical scores and sound recordings. Any unauthorized use of such programs and contents outside of personal use is not permitted under relevant laws. Any violation of copyright has legal consequences. DON’T MAKE, DISTRIBUTE OR USE ILLEGAL COPIES.

• Copying of the commercially available musical data including but not limited to MIDI data and/or audio data is strictly prohibited except for your personal use.

• Steinberg and Cubase are the registered trademarks of Steinberg Media Technologies GmbH.

• Windows is a registered trademark of Microsoft® Corporation in the United States and other countries.

• Apple, Mac and Macintosh are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.

• FireWire and the FireWire symbol are trademarks of Apple, Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. The FireWire logo is a trademark of Apple, Inc.

• ADAT is a trademark of Alesis registered in U.S. and other countries.

• The company names and product names in this manual are the trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies.

Operation Manual

The Controls and Connectors

This section provides an overview of the panel controls and connectors of the MR816 CSX/MR816 X.

Front Panel

43 468

52 5 7 9 ) ! @ #

1 [HI-Z] switch

This switch enables use of a high-impedance instrument (electric guitar, bass, etc.) connected to the MIC/LINE/HIZ jack (audio input jack) at the right of this switch. When directly connecting an electric guitar or electric bass that has passive pickups and no built-in preamp to the MIC/ LINE/HI-Z jack, set the [HI-Z] switch to the upper position.

NOTE

· Use an unbalanced phone cable when you connect an electric guitar or bass and set the [HI-Z] switch to the upper position. If you use a balanced cable or an XLR cable in such a case, this instrument will not work correctly.

2 MIC/LINE/HI-Z jack (Analog input jack 1) and

MIC/LINE jack (Analog input jack 2)

These mono channel input jacks (Nominal Level:

-60dBu – +10dBu) that support both balanced and unbal-

anced signals are used to connect microphones or musical instruments. These balanced input jacks accept both XLR-3-31 and TRS phone plug type connectors. Audio signals input via these jacks will be routed through the analog input channels of a computer and analog/digital output jacks. The wiring conﬁguration for these jacks is as shown below.

• Male XLR

1(ground)

3(cold)

3 [QUICK CONNECT] buttons (with LED lamps)

These buttons enable assignment of the analog input jacks (MIC/LINE/HI-Z jack labeled “1” on the front panel, MIC/LINE jack labeled “2” on the front panel and MIC/ LINE INPUT jacks labeled “3” – “8” on the rear panel) to the input bus of audio tracks on Cubase. By selecting an audio track or audio tracks on Cubase (on a connected computer) then pressing any of these buttons, you can have the audio signal input via the corresponding jack sent to the selected track on Cubase. The [QUICK CONNECT] lamps to which audio tracks of Cubase are assigned will light. If you select an audio track already assigned to one of the analog input jacks, the lamp of the corresponding number ﬂashes.

[SIG/PEAK] lamps

These lamps indicate the current status of audio input signals from the analog input jacks (MIC/LINE/HI-Z jack labeled “1” on the front panel, MIC/LINE jack labeled “2” on the front panel and MIC/LINE INPUT jacks labeled “3” – “8” on the rear panel), respectively. The lamp lights as follows depending on the strength of the input signals. Note that the following values are given assuming that the clipping point of the signal is 0 dB. Adjust the gain by using the [PAD] button and [GAIN] knob so that this lamp lights slightly in red when receiving the peak level.

-40dB or less (including no input signals): Off

-40dB – -3dB: Green

-3dB or more: Red

2(hot)

• TRS phone

Ring(cold)

Note that the MIC/LINE/HI-Z jack is equipped with a [HI-Z] switch (1 tric guitar, bass, etc.).

Operation Manual

) to accept a high-impedance instrument (elec-

Tip(hot)

Sleeve(ground)

5 Gain knobs 1 – 8

These knobs enable you to attenuate/boost the level of the audio input signal from the analog input jacks (MIC/ LINE/HI-Z jack labeled “1” on the front panel, MIC/LINE jack labeled “2” on the front panel and MIC/LINE INPUT jacks labeled “3” – “8” on the rear panel), respectively. The adjustable range on each channel varies depending on the on/off status of the [PAD] button (7

When the [PAD] lamp is turned on: -60dB – -16dB

When the [PAD] lamp is turned off: -34dB – +10dB

[+48V] button (Phantom power button)

This button enables you to toggle on and off phantom power, which is necessary for condenser microphones. By holding this button and pressing one of the [QUICK CONNECT] buttons 1 – 8, you can apply phantom power to the analog input jack corresponding to the pressed button. Performing the same operation removes phantom power. The [+48V] button is turned on when phantom power is applied to one or more of the input jacks, while the [+48V] button will be turned off when phantom power is off for all the input jacks. Holding this button will turn on the [QUICK CONNECT] lamp(s) corresponding to the channel number(s) to which phantom power is applied.

CAUTION

•To avoid damage to your hearing or speakers, be sure to roll off the volume level of the ampliﬁer (or powered speakers) before turning phantom power on or off. Steinberg/Yamaha also recommends that you turn all output levels to minimum settings before operating this button.

• Be sure to leave the phantom power off if you do not need it.

•When turning phantom power on, make sure that only condenser microphones are connected to the corresponding input jacks. Devices other than condenser microphones may be damaged if they are connected to the phantom power supply. Note, however, that phantom power may be left on when you connect balanced dynamic microphones.

• If you connect a device that requires an external power supply, ﬁrst connect the device to an Input jack, then turn on the phantom power. If you disconnect the device, make sure to turn off the phantom power before disconnecting the device.

7 [PAD] button

This switch toggles the Pad on and off. Holding this button and simultaneously pressing one of the [QUICK CONNECT] buttons lets you toggle the Pad of the corresponding input jack on and off. The audio input signal from an input jack for which Pad is turned on is attenuated by 26 dB. Therefore, you should turn Pad off if you have connected equipment of low output level (a microphone or other mic-level device), while Pad should be on for equipment of high output level (a synthesizer keyboard, CD player, etc.). This button will be turned on when the Pad of one or more input jacks is turned on, and will be turned off when Pad is off for all input jacks. Holding this button will turn on the [QUICK CONNECT] lamp(s) corresponding to the channel number(s) for which Pad is turned on.

ASSIGN lamps

These lamps indicate the current function assigned to the Multi Function Encoder Knob 1 and 2. For information about assignable functions, refer to (!

The Controls and Connectors

Word Clock Source Lamps

These lamps indicate the word clock source which has been set on Cubase, MR Editor or the Control Panel of the Yamaha FW Driver window (page 30) of a connected computer. When the INTERNAL lamp lights, the internal word clock of the MR816 CSX/MR816 X is used as the word clock “master.” When any of the other lamps are lit, an external word clock is used as the master (the MR816 CSX/MR816 X is the word clock “slave”). For information about word clock, refer to “Word Clock” in the next page.

WCLK

S/PDIF

ADAT

INTERNAL

NOTE

· If the word clock is not synchronized between the connected devices, the Word Clock Source lamps ﬂash. If this occurs, conﬁrm whether the word clock setting on the computer or external device is appropriate or not.

· When the Word Clock Source is set to a value other than “INTERNAL,” make sure to set the Sample Rate (pages 30, 41) to the same value as that of the master device.

· When two or three MR816 CSX/MR816 Xs are connected to the computer, all the Word Clock Source lamps of the “slave” MR816 CSX/MR816 Xs are turned off.

When this lamp lights, the word clock input from the external audio device via the WCLK IN jack will be used as the clock source.

When this lamp lights, the word clock input from the external audio device via the S/PDIF IN jack will be used as the clock source.

When this lamp lights, the word clock input from the external audio device via the OPTICAL IN jack will be used as the clock source.

When this lamp lights, the internal word clock will be used as the clock source.

) Sample Rate Lamps

These lamps indicate the current sample rate of the MR816 CSX/MR816 X. The Sample Rate can be set on Cubase, MR Editor and the Control Panel of the Yamaha FW Driver window on the computer.

When this lamp lights, the current sample rate is 96

96k

kHz.

When this lamp lights, the current sample rate is 88

88k

kHz.

When this lamp lights, the current sample rate is 48

48k

kHz.

When this lamp lights, the current sample rate is 44

44k

kHz.

NOTE

· The [MORPH] lamp is available only for the MR816 CSX. The MR816 X is not equipped with the [MORPH] lamp.

Operation Manual

The Controls and Connectors

Multi Function Encoder Knobs 1 and 2

Rotating and pressing these knobs lets you select and adjust various parameters, such as output level from the headphone jack, master volume, and reverb related parameters. Rotating each of these knobs adjusts the parameter value while pressing the knobs changes the assigned functions. The lamps around each knob indicate the current value of the currently edited parameter. The ASSIGN lamps (8

) indicate the current function

assigned to the Multi Function Encoder knobs

ASSIGN lamp Knob 1 Knob 2

Adjusts the volume level output from

PHONES

MASTER

REV-X

MORPH*

NOTE

· When the MORPH lamp is lit, select the input channel to be edited by pressing the [QUICK CONNECT] button. For details, see page 4.

·Pressing either of the encoder knobs will automatically change the function assignment.

· When the MORPH lamp is turned on, each of the end lamps around the Multi Function Encoder knob 2 (right side) will not light even if you turn the Knob 2 all the way toward the left or right. This is normal.

the headphone jack () 1 on the front panel.

Adjusts the master volume level output from the OUTPUT 1 – 8 jacks on the rear panel.

Adjusts the reverb time of the internal Reverb effect unit (REV-X).

Adjusts the DRIVE parameter of the internal compressor.

* Only available on the MR816 CSX.

Adjusts the volume level output from the headphone jack () 2 on the front panel.

Adjusts the master volume level output from the S/PDIF OUT jack and OPTICAL OUT jack on the rear panel.

Adjusts the return level from the internal Reverb effect unit.

Morphs the Sweet Spot Data of the internal compressor.

TIP

Word Clock

In a typical digital audio system, the signal referred to as “word clock” is used to synchronize the process timing of audio signals between the multiple devices. When transferring audio data between the master recorder and the MR816 CSX/MR816 X via the S/PDIF jacks or OPTICAL jacks, the MR816 CSX/MR816 X will handle the audio data according to the word clock transmitted from the master recorder. If the word clock is not transferred correctly, click noise may occur or recording may not be successful. Normally, one device transmits a reference word clock signal, and the other devices receive this word clock signal and synchronize to it. The transmitting device is called the “word clock master” and the receiving devices are called “word clock slaves.” On the MR816 CSX/MR816 X, the word clock can be transferred via either the WCLK (Word Clock) jack, the S/PDIF jack or the OPTICAL jack. Because some digital equipment can operate only as the word clock master or slave, you may need to set the word clock source on the MR816 CSX/MR816 X. If such a device is connected to the MR816 CSX, make sure to set the Word Clock Source parameter on the Control Panel of Yamaha Steinberg FW Driver or the MR Editor on the computer. When using the MR816 CSX/MR816 X as the word clock master, set the Word Clock Source parameter to “INTERNAL.” When using the MR816 CSX/MR816 X as the word clock slave, set the Word Clock Source parameter to “ADAT” or “S/PDIF” or “WCLK In” then set the Sample Rate to the same value as that of the master device.

@ Headphone jacks ( ) 1 and 2

These two 1/4" TRS phone output jacks are used for connecting headphones. The levels of these jacks can be adjusted independently by using the Multi Function

Encoder knobs (

). By setting the related parameters in Cubase or the MR Editor, you can set up custom monitor mixes for the musicians you're recording. For details, refer to pages 22 and 39.

# STANDBY/ON switch

This switch sets the power to ON or STANDBY.

CAUTION

• Note that a small amount of current continues to ﬂow while

the switch is in the STANDBY position. If you do not plan to use this instrument for a long period of time, please be sure to unplug the adaptor from the wall outlet.

Operation Manual

Rear Panel

245 6 7 8

AC ADAPTOR IN jack

Connect an AC power adaptor here (refer to the “Getting Started” manual included in the package).

The Controls and Connectors

5 WCLK IN/OUT jack (Word Clock in/out jack)

These are BNC jacks used to input and output word clock signals to and from to an external device.

2 S/PDIF IN/OUT jack (Digital input/output jack)

These coaxial jacks (RCA pin connectors) input and output S/PDIF format (IEC-60958) digital audio signals. By plugging the coaxial (RCA-pin) cable to this jack, you can connect the MR816 CSX/MR816 X an external digital audio device such a master recorder.

OPTICAL IN/OUT jack (Digital input/output jack)

These jacks input and output S/PDIF or ADAT digital audio signals. By plugging the optical-ﬁber cable to this jack, you can connect the MR816 CSX/MR816 X an external digital audio device such as a hard disk recorder, MD player or CD player. Selection of S/PDIF or ADAT can be set from the MR Editor (page 33) or the Control Panel of the Yamaha FW Driver (page 30).

4 IEEE1394 jacks 1 and 2

These 6-pin IEEE1394 (S400) standard jacks enable connection of an IEEE1394-compatible computer and another MR816 CSX/MR816 X. The operation is identical regardless of which jack is used (1 or 2). You can use one of them to connect a computer, and the other jack for another MR816 CSX/MR816 X (or a device compatible with the Yamaha Steinberg FW Driver) for daisy-chain connection. If your computer has a 4-pin IEEE1394 jack, use a 4-pin to 6-pin type IEEE1394 cable that meets the S400 speciﬁcations.

CAUTION

• Be sure to connect the IEEE1394 cable plug to the

IEEE1394 jack with the correct orientation.

6 OUTPUT jacks 1 – 8 (Analog output jacks 1 – 8)

These are mono output jacks (TRS phone type) that support both balanced and unbalanced signals. The nominal signal level is +4dBu.

MIC/LINE INPUT jacks 3 – 8 (Analog input jacks 3 – 8)

These mono channel input jacks (XLR/TRS phone) that support both balanced and unbalanced signals are used to connect microphones or musical instruments. The nominal signal level is -60dBu – +10dBu. Connector wiring is as shown in the (2) section on page 4.

8 INSERT I/O jacks 1 and 2

These phone-type unbalanced I/O jacks can be used to connect external effect units or another device for processing the audio signals already input to the MR816 CSX/MR816 X via the MIC/LINE/HI-Z jack (analog input jack 1) and MIC/LINE jack (analog input jack 2) respectively. In the internal circuitry, these jacks are positioned immediately before the A/D converters (included in the MR816 CSX/MR816 X). The audio signal input via the MIC/LINE/HI-Z jack will be transferred to the effect unit or other device connected to INSERT I/O jack 1 then returned to INSERT I/O jack 1. Likewise, the audio signal input via the MIC/LINE jack will be transferred to the effect unit or other device connected to INSERT I/O jack 2 then returned to INSERT I/O jack 2.

External effect device

Analog input jacks (1, 2)

Input channel

INSERT I/O jack

A/D

To a computer and output jacks

NOTE

· Use an IEEE1394 cable that meets the S400 standard. Stein-

berg/Yamaha recommends that you use an IEEE1394 cable with a length of 4.5 meters or less.

· Connect your IEEE1394 cables so that they do not create a

loop. For information about loop connections, refer to page 47.

Connection to an INSERT I/O jack requires a special insertion cable as illustrated below.

To the input jack of the external processor

INSERT I/O jack

Sleeve (ground)

Ring

Tip

Sleeve

To the output jack of the external processor

Tip: OUT

Tip: IN

Operation Manual

Internal Structure of the MR816 CSX/MR816 X

The MR816 CSX/MR816 X is equipped with a digital mixer supported by DSP technology. This mixer lets you adjust various parameters, including volume and pan of the input signals for each output channel consisting of adjacent odd and even channels. Each stereo mix of the sound created with this operation will be output from the four analog outputs (OUTPUT jacks 1&2, 3&4, 5&6 and 7&8), the OPTICAL OUT jack and the S/PDIF OUT jack. If “ADAT” is selected as the output format of the digital audio, up to eight stereo outputs are available, including both analog and digital.

By creating a mix for the main output and a separate monitor mix for your musicians, for example, you can easily create a comprehensive, ﬂexible monitoring environment – with no latency – for your recording session. Furthermore, using Cubase 4.5.1 or later lets you connect the Control Room function (of Cubase) and the internal mixer (of the MR816 CSX/MR816 X) seamlessly, giving you a versatile monitoring environment.

When the MR816 CSX/MR816 X is connected to your computer, the signals coming to the input channel of the internal mixer will be transferred to the DAW on the computer, returned from the DAW, mixed with other signals in the internal mixer then transferred to the corresponding output channel, as illustrated below.

From DAW

Input channels

From DAW From DAW From DAW From DAW From DAW From DAW From DAW

To DAW

Analog input 1

Analog input 8

Digital input 1

Digital input 8

*1 You can select whether or not the Channel

Strip is applied to the audio signal which will be transferred to the DAW.

*2 The Channel Strip effect (available only for

the MR816 CSX) can be used only for either analog input channels or digital input channels.

*3 Only signals for the speciﬁed output chan-

nel will be sent to the REV-X. The signal to which pan and volume settings have already been applied will be sent to the REV-X.

HPF EQ

COMP

Channel Strip

COMP

*1 *1

COMP

Channel Strip

COMP

*1 *1

To DAW

Pan Volume

OUT 1/2 ADAT 7/8

Pan Volume Pan Volume Pan Volume Pan Volume Pan Volume Pan Volume Pan Volume Pan Volume

Pan Volume Pan Volume Pan Volume Pan Volume Pan Volume Pan Volume Pan Volume

REV-X Send

OUT 3/4 OUT 5/6 OUT 7/8 ADAT 1/2 ADAT 3/4 ADAT 5/6

REV-X Return

1/2 3/4 5/6 7/8 1/2 3/4 5/6 7/8

Digital output channelsAnalog output channels

REV-X Send

(*3)

REV-X

The MR816 CSX/MR816 X is equipped with a special REV-X digital reverb unit which can be used as a Send Effect. The MR816 CSX, additionally, is equipped with a “Sweet Spot Morphing Channel Strip” (“Channel Strip” for short) which can be inserted to any of the analog input channels and digital input channels. These effect units can be inserted to different locations in the audio signal ﬂow depending on the situation or usage.

NOTE

· For more detailed information about the internal structure, refer to the block diagrams at the end of this manual (pages 50 - 54).

8 Operation Manual

Using the MR816 CSX/MR816 X with Cubase

This section features instructions on recording and mixing down via the Link function (using Cubase 4.5.1). Make sure to read “Turning the Power On and Off” and “Connecting to an External Device” in the Getting Started manual (printed booklet) before performing the operations explained below.

What you can do using the MR816 CSX/MR816 X with Cubase

Linking the MR816 CSX/MR816 X to Cubase enables the following operations.

NOTE

· In order to use the Link function between the MR816 CSX/MR816 X and Cubase, you will need to install Cubase 4.5.1 or later, which is

compatible with the Link function (including Cubase AI). For the most recent information on Cubase versions compatible with the Link function, refer to the following website.

http://service.steinberg.de/goto.nsf/show/supportupdates_mr816_gb/

·To take the full advantage of the MR816 CSX/MR816 X’s functions, you should use Cubase 4.5.1 or later (instead of Cubase AI 4.5.1 or

later).

● Quickly routing the input channel to an audio track of Cubase

The Quick Connect feature lets you assign the hardware input signal to the Cubase audio track with a single touch. Simply select an audio track or tracks on Cubase then press the desired [QUICK CONNECT] button, and all settings for routing are automatically completed. This quick and easy operation streamlines the recording process, and lets you concentrate on creating and recording while the track assign details are taken care of for you. After you’ve set the audio routing, selecting the audio track to which the input channel is assigned will cause the corresponding lamp to ﬂash, allowing you to conﬁrm the routing status easily. For detailed instructions refer to page 13.

● Monitor Mix linked with the Control Room function (only for Cubase 4.5.1 or later)

When you use Cubase 4.5.1 or later, the Control Room function can be linked with the MR816 CSX/MR816 X, allowing you to mix the monitor sound. The sound for recording musicians as well as the main mix sound can be heard without latency since Cubase is directly linked to the internal mixer of the MR816 CSX/MR816 X. For details, refer to page 14.

● Controlling mixing parameters by using dedicated windows in Cubase

Dedicated windows specially designed for the MR816 CSX/MR816 X let you control the internal mixer and effects from Cubase. The settings made in Cubase can be saved as a project ﬁle, letting you quickly recall the entire settings made in the previous session. For details about the dedicated windows, refer to page 21.

● Controlling the REV-X effect for monitoring purposes

The REV-X effect unit (built both in the MR816 CSX and MR816 X) can be controlled easily from Cubase. While this effect can be used normally as a Send Effect, it can also be used as a plug-in effect by setting the MR816 CSX/MR816 X to the external effect mode. For details, refer to page 25.

● Controlling the Channel Strip (MR816 CSX only)

The built-in Sweet Spot Morphing Channel Strip (MR816 CSX only) can be controlled from Cubase. This effect is normally applied to the Input Channels as an Insertion Effect, though it can also be used as a plug-in effect by setting the MR816 CSX to the external effect mode. For details, refer to page 27.

NOTE

· The functions listed above (except for “Quickly routing the input channel to an audio track of Cubase”) are available only when Direct

Monitoring is turned on.

Operation Manual

Using the MR816 CSX/MR816 X with Cubase

Start your recording session!

In this section, you’ll learn how to transfer the input channel signals of the MR816 CSX/MR816 X to Cubase then record them on the audio tracks.

■ Connections

First, you’ll need to connect the sources you’ll be recording (your musical instruments, microphones, etc.) to the input jacks, and connect the monitor devices (speakers or headphones) to the output jacks or headphone jacks, then turn all the devices on.

1 Connect external devices to the MR816 CSX/

MR816 X then connect your computer to the MR816 CSX/MR816 X via an IEEE1394 cable.

For details, refer to the Getting Started manual (printed booklet included in this product).

WARNING

• Before connecting the instrument to other electronic compo-

nents, turn off the power of all the components. Also, before turning any components on or off, make sure to set all volume levels to minimum (0). Otherwise, electrical shock or damage to the components may occur.

2 Turn on the every device in the following order:

1) the connected microphones/musical instruments, 2) the MR816 CSX/MR816 X, and 3) the monitor speakers.

NOTE

· When turning the power off, follow the opposite order (monitor speakers instrument) after turning all volume settings down all the way to the minimum.

➝ MR816 CSX/MR816 X ➝ microphone/musical

CAUTION

•When disconnecting/connecting cables after the setup is completed, make sure to turn all volume settings down all the way to the minimum.

4 If necessary, turn phantom power [+48V] on/off

then turn the [PAD] on/off.

•Turning phantom power on/off

To turn phantom power on, hold the [+48V] button then press the [QUICK CONNECT] button corresponding to the analog input jack to which the condenser microphone is connected. While holding the [+48V] button, you can turn phantom power on or off for other analog input jacks (1 – 8) individually by pressing the corresponding [QUICK CONNECT] button. The [QUICK CONNECT] buttons of analog input jacks to which phantom power is applied will light while holding the [+48V] button. The [+48V] button will light when phantom power is on for any of the analog input jacks.

Tur ning the phantom power on/off [+48V] button

3 Turn down the volume of the master output and

headphones to prevent any loud, unexpected sound.

•Turning down the master volume

Press the encoder knob a few times so that the MASTER lamp lights, then rotate the encoder knob counter-clockwise to turn down the master volume (of the audio from the OUTPUT jacks 1 – 8, S/PDIF OUT jack and OPTICAL OUT jack on the rear panel).

Tur ned on.

OUTPUT jacks 1 – 8 S/PDIF OUT jack and

OPTICAL OUT jack

•Turning down the volume of the headphones

Press the encoder knob a few times so that the PHONES lamp lights, then rotate the encoder knob counter-clockwise to turn down the volume of the audio signals output from the headphone jacks on the front panel.

Tur ned on.

•Turning the [PAD] on/off

To do this, hold the [PAD] button then press the [QUICK CONNECT] button corresponding to the analog input jack which you want to apply the Pad. Pad reduces the level for the corresponding input by a certain amount. While holding the [PAD] button, you can turn Pad on or off for other analog input jacks (1 – 8) individually by pressing the corresponding [QUICK CONNECT] button. The [QUICK CONNECT] button of the analog input jacks to which Pad is applied will light while holding the [PAD] button. The [PAD] button will light when the Pad is turned on for any of the analog input jacks.

On/off

[PAD] button

Headphone jack 1 Headphone jack 2

10 Operation Manual

NOTE

· If the phantom power or PAD of any analog input channel is turned on, the corresponding [QUICK CONNECT] buttons are turned on only when the [+48V] or [PAD] button is pressed.

Using the MR816 CSX/MR816 X with Cubase

CAUTION

•To avoid damage to your hearing or speakers, be sure to roll off the volume level of the ampliﬁer (or powered speakers) before turning the phantom power on or off. Steinberg/ Ya maha also recommends that you turn all output levels to minimum settings before operating this button.

• Be sure to leave the phantom power off if you do not need it.

•When turning the phantom power on, make sure that only condenser microphones are connected to the corresponding input jacks. Devices other than condenser microphones may be damaged if they are connected to the phantom power supply. Note, however, that the phantom power may be left on when you connect balanced dynamic microphones.

■ Setting up on the computer

Follow the steps below to set up your computer for using the Link function with Cubase.

NOTE

· Before using the Cubase Link function, make sure to install TOOLS for MR then make initial settings. For more information about installation procedures and initial settings for the TOOLS for MR, please refer to the Getting Started manual (printed manual).

1 Start the computer.

Wait until the Word Clock Source lamps and Sample Rate lamps ﬁnish ﬂashing successively.

NOTE

· Note that the Clock Source lamps and Sampling Rate lamps ﬂash while Yamaha Steinberg FW Driver is performing setup of the MR816 CSX/MR816 X. These lamps continue ﬂashing if the setup is not completed properly.

2 Start Cubase.

■ For Windows:

Click [Start] ➝ [All Program] ➝ [Steinberg Cubase 4] ➝ [Cubase 4] to start the program.

■ For Macintosh:

Double-click [Application] ➝ [Cubase 4] to start the program. If the Steinberg MR Extension dialog appears while Cubase is starting, click [OK].

3 Select [Devices] ➝ [Device Setup...] to call up the

Device Setup window. Select “VST Audio System” in the Device column then conﬁrm whether or not “Yamaha Steinberg FW ASIO”/“Yamaha Steinberg FW” is selected from the ASIO Driver column.

If it is selected, click [OK] to close the window. The MR816 CSX/MR816 X can now be linked to Cubase.

Conﬁrm “Yamaha Steinberg FW ASIO”/ “Yamaha Steinberg FW” is selected.

NOTE

· When changing the ASIO driver, a dialog box may appear asking “Do you want to switch the ASIO driver?”. Click [Switch].

Operation Manual

Using the MR816 CSX/MR816 X with Cubase

4 On the Device ﬁeld, select “Yamaha Steinberg

FW ASIO” or “Yamaha Steinberg FW,” make sure that the checkbox of “Direct Monitoring” is turned on, then click [OK] to close the window.

NOTE

· If the Direct Monitoring is turned on, you can monitor the Cubase-mixed sound with no latency. Since the MR816 CSX/ MR816 X is equipped with the effect unit, you can monitor the effect-applied signal even when the Direct Monitoring is turned on. Furthermore, you can use the Direct Monitoring function in the Studio Send also when you use the Control Room function. It is recommended to turn the Direct Monitoring on to take a full advantage of the linked functions between the MR816 CSX/ MR816 X and Cubase.

TIP

If you want to change the Sample Rate or routing of the input/output bus, follow the instructions below.

● To change the Sample Rate:

Select [Project] ➝ [Project Setup] to call up the Project Setup dialog. After setting, click [OK] to close the dialog. According to the setting made here, the Sample Rate of the MR816 CSX/MR816 X will be changed automatically.

Sample Rate of the project ﬁle

5 Select [File] ➝ [New Project] to create a new

Project.

The New Project dialog appears. The Project templates for the MR816 CSX/MR816 X will be shown if the TOOLS for MR has already been installed. Selecting any of these templates will automatically set the routing of the audio input/output.

Project templates for the MR816 CSX/MR816 X

● To change the routing of the input/output bus:

Select [Devices] ➝ [VST Connections] to call up the VST Connections window. From this window, you can change the device port of the existing bus and add the new bus.

6 Select the desired template then click [OK].

If a dialog asking you the destination of the created ﬁle appears, select the destination path then click [OK] again. On the front panel of the MR816 CSX/ MR816 X, the [QUICK CONNECT] lamps to which audio tracks of Cubase are assigned will light.

The settings on the computer have been completed.

12 Operation Manual

■ Setting up for recording

Setting up an Audio Track

In the Project created via the project template for the MR816 CSX/MR816 X, the input bus corresponding to the analog input jack of the MR816 CSX/MR816 X is assigned to the input source of each audio track. This means that you can simply open the desired Project template and immediately be ready to record. If you want to change the input source of the audio track, simply use the [QUICK CONNECT] button to change the routing between the analog input jack and audio track. The instructions below show how to assign the signal of analog input jack 4 to audio track 1, using an example in which “Steinberg MR816CSX multi channel recording” or “Steinberg MR816X multi channel recording” is selected as a Project template. This operation described below basically applies also when selecting other audio tracks.

1 When you want to change the assignment of the

input signal within a Project, select the desired audio track.

Using the MR816 CSX/MR816 X with Cubase

TIP

Automatic routing of the audio track via the [QUICK CONNECT] button

Pressing any of the [QUICK CONNECT] buttons with a certain audio track(s) selected will assign the audio signal of the corresponding input jack to the selected audio track(s) through the VST input bus. When the VST input bus is not set, the input bus will be created and assigned to the selected audio track automatically by pressing the [QUICK CONNECT] button. If you press one of the [QUICK CONNECT] buttons when the corresponding audio signal is speciﬁed to multiple buses, the bus created at the top line of the VST Connections window (called up via [Devices] ➝ [VST Connections]) will be assigned to the selected track(s).

If you select an audio track already assigned to one of the analog input jacks, the lamp of the corresponding number will ﬂash for a while instead of being lit continuously. In the setting example above, the [QUICK CONNECT] lamp 1 will ﬂash.

2 On the MR816 CSX/MR816 X, press the [QUICK

CONNECT] button (corresponding to 4).

The [QUICK CONNECT] lamp 4 ﬂashes for a while then lights. The [QUICK CONNECT] lamp 1 will turn off instead of being lit continuously, indicating that MIC/LINE INPUT jack 4 is assigned to the input bus of audio track 1.

Tur ned on.Tur ned off.

Pressing the [QUICK CONNECT] button 1 while multiple audio tracks are selected will assign the bus to which the audio signal of analog input jack 1 is speciﬁed to all the selected tracks.

Select multiple tracks.

VSTi input bus

INPUT

Press the [QUICK CONNECT] button.

If desired, you can change the input jack assigned to the current track by pressing any other [QUICK CONNECT] button any time (except for during actual recording). For example, if microphone is connected to the MIC/LINE/HI-Z jack (input channel 1) and a synthesizer is connected to the MIC/LINE jack (input channel 2), you can easily change the input source by pressing [QUICK CONNECT] buttons 1 or 2 alternately with the same audio track selected.

Audio track

Operation Manual

Using the MR816 CSX/MR816 X with Cubase

When you select the audio track to which the audio signal of the analog input jacks 1 – 8 has been assigned (after making the assignments), the corresponding lamp(s) of the [QUICK CONNECT] buttons will ﬂash for a while. This lets you conﬁrm the audio routing assignment quickly. When you select multiple audio tracks, all the [QUICK CONNECT] lamps assigned to the selected tracks will ﬂash simultaneously.

Select a track.

Flashes

3 On Cubase, select the track to be recorded then

turn on the Record Enable button and Monitor button.

While playing the instrument or singing into the microphone at the loudest expected level, gradually rotate the knob of the corresponding channel clockwise to ﬁnd the point at which the corresponding [SIG/PEAK] ﬂashes slightly in red.

In order to record the sound with the widest dynamic range and minimum noise, rotate the [GAIN] control clockwise to raise the input sensitivity as high as possible without the input signal clipping.

Flashes slightly in red

5 While playing the instrument or singing into the

microphone, gradually adjust the volume of the master output and headphones.

The setup for recording has been completed.

NOTE

·To achieve a clear sound with the least noise, amplify the input to the desired average level as early as possible in the signal path. That means that you should amplify the input signal by using the corresponding knob as much as possible. Remember, however, that too much initial gain is bad, because it will cause clipping, and will distort the sound. Amplify the signal to a level just below clipping.

Adding multiple monitoring environments (only for Cubase 4.5.1 or later)

The Control Room feature of Cubase 4.5.1 or later lets you seamlessly control the built-in mixer and create monitor mixes for the musicians. The actual mixing is performed in the MR816 CSX/MR816 X although the mix operation of Control Room is performed within Cubase, allowing you to create a latency-free monitor environment. Furthermore, two of the mix sounds created on the Control Room can be assigned independently to the two headphone jacks. This section shows how to make the settings so that you can create monitor signals for vocals and guitar then output them from headphone jacks 1 and 2 respectively by using the Control Room feature. The settings explained below are useful if you want to record guitar and vocals simultaneously.

NOTE

· Keep in mind that the Control Room function is not available in Cubase AI. When you use Cubase AI 4.5.1 or later, you can assign certain stereo output buses to headphone jacks 1 and 2 respectively.

1 Select [Devices] ➝ [VST Connections] to call up

the VST Connections window.

Adjust

14 Operation Manual

2 Click the [Studio] tab on the top right of the VST

Connections window then make sure that the Control Room function is available.

If unavailable, click [Disable Control Room] to turn on the Control Room function.

3 Create the stereo Studios (up to four can be cre-

ated) by clicking [Add Channel] then selecting [Add Studio].

NOTE

· The mono Studio cannot be selected as the output of the headphone jack.

Using the MR816 CSX/MR816 X with Cubase

4 For each of the created Studios, assign “Yamaha

Steinberg FW ASIO” / “Yamaha Steinberg FW” to the Audio Device and assign your desired output jack to the Device Port.

After making the settings, close the VST Connections window by clicking [X] at the top right of the window.

5 Select [Devices] ➝ [Control Room Mixer] to call

up the Control Room Mixer window.

6 Turn on the output of channels [1] – [4] by click-

ing each of them, then make sure that the input of the corresponding channel is set to “AUX” (instead of “MIX”).

2. Turn the [AUX] on.

7 Select [Devices] ➝ [Mixer] to call up the

Extended Mixer window.

If the Extended Mixer window is not shown, click the arrow ( ) button (“Show Extended Mixer”) to call it up.

8 Call up the Studio Send on the Extended Mixer

by clicking the “Show Studio Sends” button ( ) at the left on the window.

The Studio Send lets you create custom mixes for the performer by specifying the level/pan/pre-fader/ post-fader settings. You can create mixes also by using the fader/pan level of the main mix. In this case, you may need to make certain adjustments. For details, refer to the Cubase operation manual. The Direct Monitoring function lets you hear the signal from the Input Channels of the MR816 CSX/ MR816 X without latency. By performing the steps below, you can output the mix created here via headphone jacks 1 and 2.

1. Turn on the Activate Channel buttons.

Studio Send

Operation Manual

Using the MR816 CSX/MR816 X with Cubase

9 Call up the MR816 CSX/MR816 X Hardware Setup

window (page 23) by selecting [Devices] ➝ [Audio Hardware Setup].

Monitor source of headphone jack 1

Monitor level of headphone jack 1

NOTE

· The MR816 CSX/MR816 X Hardware Setup window can be called up also from the MR816 CSX/MR816 X Input Settings window (page 21).

Monitor source of headphone jack 2

Monitor level of headphone jack 2

10 Click the monitor source of headphones 1 and 2,

then select the desired output channels.

NOTE

· Also the Monitor Channel or Phone Channel can be selected as monitor source if they have been created.

Applying REV-X to the monitor signals

The REV-X effect unit built into the MR816 CSX/MR816 X is connected to the Send and Return of the internal mixer. Various parameters of this effect which can be applied only to the monitor sound will be adjusted for each of input channels on Cubase.

Monitor signal

Cubase

Input bus Audio track

REV-X return

MR816 CSX/MR816 X input channels

Analog input 1

Analog input 8

Digital input 1

Digital input 8

NOTE

· REV-X can also be used as a VST plug-in effect of Cubase by setting the MR816 CSX/MR816 X to the external effect mode. For information about the external effect mode, refer to page 19.

REV-X Send

REV-X

Monitor output

The instructions below apply to Cubase 4.5.1.

11 Adjust the monitor level of the headphone jacks

1 and 2 as desired via the panel operation on the MR816 CSX/MR816 X or window operation on Cubase.

After making the settings, click [X] at the right top of the window to close it.

NOTE

· When the Control Room is not available or you use Cubase AI

4.5.1 or later, you can assign the monitor source to the headphone jack by selecting one of the stereo output buses set in the VST Connection window.

1 Select [Devices] ➝ [Mixer] to call up the

Extended Mixer window.

If the Extended Mixer window is not shown, click the arrow ( ) button (“Show Extended Mixer”) to call it up.

2 Call up the input channel mixer by clicking the

Input Channel indication icon ( ) at the left of the Mixer window.

3 Make sure that MR816 CSX/MR816 X Input Set-

tings window is shown on the Extended Mixer of the Input Channel’s mixer.

If the window is not shown, click the triangular ( ) button (“Extended View Type”) then select “Hardware” from the indicated menu.

REV-X Edit

REV-X Send

REV-X Setup

Extended View Type

16 Operation Manual

Show Extended Mixer

Indication of the Input Channel Mixer

Using the MR816 CSX/MR816 X with Cubase

NOTE

· For instructions on calling up the window when using Cubase AI 4.5.1 or later, refer to page 21.

4 Perform the following operations as required.

● To adjust the effect depth:

Drag on the REV-X Send ﬁeld below the REV icon and move the pointer leftward or rightward to adjust the send level.

● To adjust the effect parameters:

Click the REV-X Edit ( ) to call up the REV-X Setup window. For information about the available parameters, refer to page 25.

● To adjust the effect type and return level:

Click the REV-X Setup to call up the MR816 CSX/ MR816 X Hardware Setup window. For information about the available parameters, refer to page 23.

NOTE

· The MR816 CSX/MR816 X Hardware Setup window can be called up also by selecting [Device] ➝ [Audio Hardware Setup].

· Note that the REV-X effect cannot be used for the monitor signal when the MR816 CSX/MR816 X is set to the external effect mode. In this case, the REV-X indication is not shown in the MR816 CSX/MR816 X Input Settings window.

Applying the Sweet Spot Morphing Channel Strip to the monitor signals (MR816 CSX only)

The built-in Sweet Spot Morphing Channel Strip (“Channel Strip” for short) can be applied to the audio signal which is to be recorded or only to the monitor sound depending on to which point this effect unit is inserted. For each input channel of the MR816 CSX, if necessary, you can insert the Channel Strip to the different location and adjust the effect parameters on Cubase.

MR816 CSX input channels

Monitor output

Input bus Audio track

Monitor output

Analog input 1

Analog input 8

Digital input 1

Digital input 8

Channel Strip

COMP EQ

Channel Strip

COMP EQ

The instructions below apply to Cubase 4.5.1.

1 Select [Devices] ➝ [Mixer] to call up the

Extended Mixer window.

If the Extended Mixer window is not shown, click the arrow ( ) button (“Show Extended Mixer”) to call it up.

2 Call up the input channel mixer by clicking the

Input Channel indication icon ( ) at the left in the Mixer window.

3 Make sure that MR816 CSX/MR816 X Input Set-

tings window is shown on the Extended Mixer of the Input Channel’s mixer.

If the window is not shown, click the triangular ( ) button (“Extended View Type”) then select “Hardware” from the indicated menu.

Channel Strip Edit

DRIVE

MORPH

Effect insertion setup

Extended View Type

Show Extended Mixer Indication of the Input

Channel Mixer

Operation Manual

+ 38 hidden pages

Steinberg MR816csx, MR816x Operation Manual

Introduction

Main Features

Table of Contents

The Controls and Connectors

Front Panel

Rear Panel

Internal Structure of the MR816 CSX/MR816 X

Using the MR816 CSX/MR816 X with Cubase

What you can do using the MR816 CSX/MR816 X with Cubase

Start your recording session!

■ Connections

■ Setting up on the computer

■ Setting up for recording