Steinberg UR824 User manual

USB AUDIO INTERFACE

Contents

Introduction............................................................3

Contents in this Operation Manual............................... 3

Features ....................................................................... 3

Panel Controls and Terminals (Details)...............5

Rear Panel.................................................................... 5

Front Panel ................................................................... 6

Panel Controls for the Software Programs .........8

Introduction .................................................................. 8

Control Panel of the Audio Driver................................. 8

dspMixFx UR824.......................................................... 9

Dedicated Windows for Cubase Series ..................... 15

Sweet Spot Morphing Channel Strip (Channel Strip). 20

REV-X ......................................................................... 22

Guitar Amp Classics .................................................. 24

Usage Examples ..................................................26

Introduction ................................................................ 26

Recording with the Channel Strip and REV-X............ 26

Connecting the Mic Preamp ...................................... 28

Using the Device Without a Computer....................... 28

Using the Device with an iPad ................................... 29

Appendix ..............................................................31

Glossary ..................................................................... 31

Contents of the Getting Started Section .................... 32

Signal Flow................................................................. 33

Block Diagrams.......................................................... 35

UR824 Operation Manual 2

Introduction

Contents in this Operation Manual

This Operation Manual explains how to use the device. The explanations in this manual assume that you’ve set up the device and prepared it for use according to the Getting Started document. If you haven’t done that yet, refer to the Getting Started document and complete the setup before reading this manual.

Features

High-resolution Microphone Preamplifiers (D-PRE)

Discrete microphone preamps featuring a highperformance inverted Darlington circuit configuration achieve low distortion and noise while delivering sound with eminently musical balance and character.

Supports a Variety of Inputs

Switchable phantom power is provided for condenser microphones, electric guitars and basses can be directly connected via a HI-Z (high impedance) input, and a PAD is provided for input matching with high-level signals from electronic instruments. Optical input connectors enable direct digital input in ADAT or S/PDIF format from a variety of digital audio devices, while a BNC-connector for word clock input and output allows precise synchronization with other digital equipment.

Powerful DSP Mixer (dspMixFx)

A DSP mixer that can mix up to 24 input channels to four stereo outputs is built in. Two of those stereo mixes can be independently assigned to separate headphone outputs. It is also possible to directly route a stereo input to any specified stereo output. A number of DSP effects that can be applied to input signals are also provided, and since it is a hardware mix with there is no monitoring latency.

DSP Effect: Sweet Spot Morphing Channel Strip

The Sweet Spot Morphing Channel Strip (“Channel Strip” for short) is a multi-effect that combines compression and EQ. Advanced sound engineering know-how is condensed into a number of presets that can simply be recalled as required for professional results. Up to eight channel strips can be used at a time, and it can be assigned either to the monitor sound only, or to both the monitor and recorded sound.

DSP Effect: REV-X Reverb

REV-X is a digital reverb platform developed by Yamaha for pro audio applications. One REV-X effect is included in this unit. Input signals can be sent to the REV-X effect, and the REV-X effect is applied only to the monitor outputs.

DSP Effect: Guitar Amp Classics

Guitar Amp Classics are guitar amp effects that make extensive use of advanced Yamaha modeling technology. One Guitar Amp Classics effect can be used at a time, and it can be assigned either to the monitor sound only, or to both the monitor and recorded sound.

The maximum number of Channel Strip and Guitar Amp Classics iterations which can be used simultaneously has restrictions. Refer to the “Limitations on the use of effects” (page 34).

DSP Effect VST Plug-ins Included

VST3 Plug-ins (page 31) of the Channel Strip, REV-X and Guitar Amp Classics effects are included for use with Cubase series or similar VST-compatible DAW software.

Free Download of Cubase AI

Steinberg’s Cubase AI digital audio workstation (DAW, page 31) is available free for downloading via our website, specifically for customers who have purchased the UR824. Cubase AI is the entry-level version of the Cubase series DAW products, providing the basic functionality you need for music production and editing.

UR824 Operation Manual 3

Class Compliant mode

UR824 DSP Mixer

BGM

Delivery

In Class Compliant mode, the UR824 works with the iPad through the Apple iPad Camera Connection Kit. It can be used with iOS compatible music production applications such as Steinberg Cubasis for convenient high-quality recording anywhere, at any time. A computer can also be used in CC mode.

Loopback function

Loopback function facilitates video delivery and other Internet related activities. This function mixes the input audio signals (LINE, Guitar, Mic, etc) and the audio signals playing back in the software into two channels in the UR824, and back to the computer for live broadcasting via the Internet.

Introduction

UR824 Operation Manual 4

Panel Controls and Terminals (Details)

Rear Panel

Panel Controls and Terminals (Details)

1 DC IN 16V

For connection to the AC power adaptor.

2 Grounding screw

For connection to a ground wire.

If you have a problem with hum or noise, use this terminal to connect to ground. The noise may be reduced.

3 USB2.0 (USB port)

For connection to a computer or iPad. Apple iPad Camera Connection Kit or Lightning to USB Camera Adapter are required when connecting the UR824 with an iPad.

USB Port Precautions

NOTICE

Be sure to observe the following points when connecting to the computer’s USB interface. Failing to do so may result in the computer freezing or shutting down, as well as corruption or even loss of data. If the device or computer does freeze, restart the application or computer.

• Be sure to wake the computer from sleep/ suspended/stand by mode before making a connection to the computer’s USB port.

• Before turning on the power to the device, connect the computer to the USB port.

• Before turning on/off the device or plugging/ unplugging the USB cable, quit any open application software on the computer.

• When connecting or disconnecting the USB cable, be sure to set all output level controls to the minimum.

• Wait at least six seconds between connecting or disconnecting the USB cable.

For connection to the device which transmits and receives the word clock.

6 OPTICAL A/B IN/OUT (optical)

For connection to a digital audio device.

You can select the format of the OPTICAL A/B between ADAT and S/PDIF. To select the format, use the “Setup Window” (page 13) in the section “dspMixFx UR824” or the “Settings Window” (page 19) in the section “Dedicated Windows for Cubase Series.”

You can select the output signal of the OPTICAL A/B OUT. To select the output signal, use the “Setup Window” (page 13) in the section “dspMixFx UR824” or the “Output Routing Window” (page 18) in the section “Dedicated Windows for Cubase Series.”

7 LINE OUTPUT 1–8 (phone type,

balanced/unbalanced)

For connection to monitor speakers. When the monitor speakers have a balanced input, connect them with a balanced cable.

You can select the output signal of LINE OUTPUT 1–8. To select the output signal, use the “Setup Window” (page 13) in the section “dspMixFx UR824” or the “Output Routing Window” (page

18) in the section “Dedicated Windows for Cubase Series.”

8 MIC/LINE INPUT 3–8 (XLR/phone type,

balanced/unbalanced)

For connection to a microphone or digital instrument.

4 WCLK switch

Switches between IN and OUT for the upper WCLK terminal.

5 WCLK IN (OUT)/OUT (BNC connector)

UR824 Operation Manual 5

Front Panel

CAUTION

Panel Controls and Terminals (Details)

1 MIC/LINE/HI-Z (XLR/phone type,

balanced/unbalanced)

For connection to a microphone, digital instrument, electric guitar, or electric bass.

2 HI-Z switch

Turns on (O) and off (N) the HI-Z of the MIC/ LINE/HI-Z.

Turn this switch on when connecting high impedance instruments, such as an electric guitar or electric bass, directly to the MIC/LINE/ HI-Z.

When you turn this switch on, use an unbalanced phone type cable for connection between the instrument and the MIC/LINE/HI-Z. If you use a balanced cable or an XLR cable, this device will not work correctly.

• Do not connect or disconnect a device while turning on the HI-Z switch. Doing so can damage the connected device and/or the unit itself.

• To protect your speaker system, leave the monitor speakers turned off when turning the HI-Z switch on/ off. It’s also a good idea to turn all output volume controls down to their minimum. Neglect of these precautions may result in large noise bursts that may damage your equipment, your ears, or both.

3 PAD s w i t ch

Turns on (O) and off (N) the PAD of the analog input jacks (MIC/LINE/HI-Z and MIC/LINE INPUT).

When you turn this switch on, the input signal level of the analog input jacks will be attenuated by 26 dB. Turn this switch on when connecting high output equipment, such as a synthesizer, to the analog input jacks.

4 SIG/PEAK lamp

Indicates the input signal level of the analog input jacks (MIC/LINE/HI-Z and MIC/LINE INPUT).

Lamp status Description

Red -3 dB or more

Green 40 dB or more – less than -3 dB

Dark Less than -40 dB

5 INPUT GAIN knob

Adjusts the input signal level of the analog input jacks (MIC/LINE/HI-Z and MIC/LINE INPUT). The adjustable range varies depending on the on/off setting of the PAD switch.

PAD Ran ge

On -34 dB – +10 dB

Off -60 dB – -16 dB

6 +48V button

Turns on (lit) and off (dark) the phantom power of XLR type connections on analog input jacks (MIC/LINE/HI-Z and MIC/LINE INPUT).

When you turn on this button, phantom power will be supplied to the two adjacent analog input jacks. Turn on this button when connecting phantom powered devices, such as a condenser microphone, to the analog input jacks.

• Make sure that phantom power is turned OFF unless it is needed.

• When turning phantom power ON, make sure that no equipment other than phantom-powered devices such as condenser microphones are connected. Devices other than condenser microphones may be damaged if connected to the phantom power supply. Note, however, that the switch may be left on when connecting to balanced dynamic microphones. When connecting an unbalanced device to the MIC/LINE/HIZ and MIC/LINE INPUT and phantom power is turned on, hum or noise may result; this is not a malfunction or failure in the device.

UR824 Operation Manual 6

Panel Controls and Terminals (Details)

• Do not connect or disconnect a device while phantom power is applied. Doing so can damage the connected device and/or the unit itself.

• To protect your speaker system, leave the monitor speakers turned off when switching the phantom power on/off. It’s also a good idea to turn all output volume controls down to their minimum. Neglect of these precautions may result in large noise bursts that may damage your equipment, your ears, or both.

7 PHONES knob 1/2

Adjusts the output signal level of PHONES 1/2. This output signal level is not affected by the OUTPUT LEVEL knob.

PHONES 1/2 output one of the MIX 1–4 signals. To select the output signal, use the “Headphone Area” (page 13) in the section “dspMixFx UR824” or the “Headphones Window” (page 18) in the section “Dedicated Windows for Cubase Series.”

8 PHONES 1/2 (phone type, stereo)

For connection to a set of headphones.

9 Word clock source lamp

Indicates the word clock (page 31) source of the device.

) Sample rate lamp

Indicates the sample rate of the device.

Lamp Sample Rate

96k and 48k 192 kHz

88k and 44k 176.4 kHz

96k 96 kHz

88k 88.2 kHz

48k 48 kHz

44k 44.1 kHz

To select the sample rate of the device, use the “(device name) Window” (page 8) in the section “Control Panel of the Audio Driver” in Windows or Audio MIDI Setup in Mac.

! OUTPUT LEVEL knob

Adjusts the output level of the LINE OUTPUT 1–8 signals.

To select the LINE OUTPUT for adjusting the output signal level, use the “Setup Window” (page 13) in the section “dspMixFx UR824” or the “Master Levels Window” (page 19) in the section “Dedicated Windows for Cubase Series.”

@ Power button

Turn the power on and off.

Lamp Clock Source

WCLK The word clock signal input to the

WCLK IN.

ADAT A The word clock signal input to the

OPTICAL A IN.

ADAT B The word clock signal input to the

OPTICAL B IN.

INTERNAL The internal word clock signal.

Lamp status Description

Lit Synchronized with the clock

source.

Flash Not synchronized with the clock

source.

To select the clock source of the device, use the “(device name) Window” (page 8) in the section “Control Panel of the Audio Driver” in Windows or Audio MIDI Setup in Mac.

Power on Press the power button ( ). The

power button will light.

Power off Hold down the power button ( )

for over two seconds. The power button will light dimly.

UR824 Operation Manual 7

Panel Controls for the Software Programs

Introduction

This section explains software operations for using the UR824 with a computer.

NOTE

The software programs below do not apply to iPad.

Control Panel of the Audio Driver

This is the control panel for selecting the general settings of the audio driver. Click the upper tabs to select the desired window.

Screenshot

Panel Controls

(Device name) Window

This is the window for selecting the sample rate or word clock source of the device.

1 Sample Rate (Windows only)

Selects the sample rate of the device.

Option: 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz, 88.2 kHz, 96 kHz,

176.4 kHz, 192 kHz

NOTE

For Mac, select the sample rate of the device via the Audio MIDI Setup.

How to Open the Window

Windows

•[Control Panel]  [Hardware and Sound] or [Sounds, Speech, and Audio Devices]  [Yamaha Steinberg USB Driver]

•From the Cubase series menu, [Devices]  [Device Setup]  [Yamaha Steinberg USB ASIO]  [Control Panel]

Mac

•[System Preferences]  [Yamaha Steinberg USB]

•From the Cubase series menu, [Devices]  [Device Setup]  [Steinberg UR824]  [Control Panel]  [Open Config App]

2 Clock Source (Windows only)

Selects the word clock source of the device.

Option Clock Source

WCLK The word clock signal input to the

WCLK IN.

ADAT A The word clock signal input to the

OPTICAL A IN.

ADAT B The word clock signal input to the

OPTICAL B IN.

Internal The internal word clock signal.

NOTE

For Mac, select the word clock source of the device via the Audio MIDI Setup.

UR824 Operation Manual 8

Panel Controls for the Software Programs

3 Enable Power Management

Select enable (checkmark) and disable (no checkmark) for automatic power off.

The device is equipped with an automatic power off function. When this function is enabled, the power of the device will turn off automatically (after thirty minutes) when one of the following actions is performed. The power button will flash during the thirty-minute interval.

• Turning off the computer.

• Disconnecting the USB cable between the device and the computer.

ASIO Window (Windows only)

This is the window for selecting the ASIO driver settings.

3 Input Latency/Output Latency

Indicates the delay time for the audio input and output in millisecond units.

Audio latency varies depending on the value of the ASIO buffer size. The lower the value of the ASIO buffer size, the lower the value of Audio latency.

About Window

This window indicates information about the audio driver.

1 Device

Selects the device that will be using the ASIO driver. This function is available when connecting to the computer two or more devices compatible with the Yamaha Steinberg USB Driver.

2 Buffer Size

Selects the buffer size (page 31) for the ASIO driver. The range varies depending on the sample rate.

Sample Rate Range

44.1 kHz/44.8 kHz 64 samples – 2048 samples

88.2 kHz/96 kHz 128 samples – 4096 samples

176.4 kHz/192 kHz 256 Samples – 8192 Samples

1 About

Indicates the version and copyright of the audio driver. The letters “x.x.x” indicate the version number.

dspMixFx UR824

This is the window for configuring the DSP mixer and DSP effect equipped with the device. The signals flow top-to-down and left-to-right. The dspMixFx UR824 provides stand-alone operation.

NOTE

You cannot operate the dspMixFx UR824 while a Cubase series DAW is running. When Cubase is running, configure the DSP mixer and DSP effect from “Dedicated Windows for Cubase Series” (page 15).

Screenshot

NOTE

For Mac, select the buffer size in the buffer size selecting window, which is opened from an application such as DAW software.

UR824 Operation Manual 9

Panel Controls for the Software Programs

Channel Area (page 11) MIX Area (page 13)

DAW Area (page 12)

Master Area (page 12)

Headphone Area (page 13)

How to Open the Window

Windows

[All Programs] or [All apps]  [Steinberg UR824]  [dspMixFx UR824]

Mac

[Applications]  [dspMixFx UR824]

Panel Controls

Tool Area

This is the area for configuring the common settings of the dspMixFx UR824.

1 Quit

Quits the dspMixFx UR824.

2 Minimize

Minimizes the dspMixFx UR824 window.

3 Menu

Provides four menus, including Save the settings file of the dspMixFx UR824 (page 31) and Import Scene (page 31).

Menu Description

4 Scene

Indicates the scene name. You can change the scene name by clicking on it.

When you click the button on the right side, the window for calling up the scene will open. You can call up the scene by clicking it. To cancel calling up the scene, click outside of the window.

5 STORE

Opens the scene store window. Enter the desired scene name into the STORE NAME field. Select the destination for storing the scene in the No. NAME field. Click [OK] to store the scene.

6 Selecting the window

Selects the dspMixFx UR824 window. The selected window icon will light in red.

Icon Description

Main window (page 10)

Level Meter window (page 13)

Setup window (page 13)

Information window (page 15)

7 Help

Opens the Operation Manual (this manual).

Open Opens the settings file of the

dspMixFx UR824.

Save Saves the settings file of the

dspMixFx UR824 to a computer.

Import Scene

Initialize All Scenes

Imports a scene from the settings file of the dspMixFx UR824. Select the settings file of the dspMixFx UR824 and import scene on the left side of the IMPORT SCENE window. Select the destination for importing on the right side of the window. Click [OK] to import it.

Deletes all the saved scenes.

Main Window

This is the window for configuring the entire signal flow.

UR824 Operation Manual 10

Panel Controls for the Software Programs

Channel Area

This is the area for configuring the input channel settings.

5 Effect Insertion Location

Selects the insertion location of an effect.

Option Description

MON.FX Applies an effect to only the monitor

signal (sent to the device).

INS.FX Applies an effect to both the monitor

signal (sent to the device) and the recording signal (sent to the DAW software).

6 Effect On/Off

Turns the effect on (lit) and off (dark).

7 Effect Edit

Opens (lit) and closes (dark) the selected effect setup window.

8 Effect Type

Selects the effect.The maximum number of Channel Strip and Guitar Amp Classics iterations which can be used simultaneously has restrictions. Refer to the “Limitations on the use of effects” (page 34).

1 Channel Link

Turns on (lit) and off (dark) the channel link of two adjacent channels. When you turn this on, two mono channels will become one stereo channel.

2 Level Meter

Indicates the signal level.

3 High Pass Filter

Turns on (lit) and off (dark) the high pass filter.

To select the cutoff frequency of the high pass filter, use the “Setup Window” (page 13) in the section “dspMixFx UR824.”

9 REV-X Send

Adjusts the signal level which is sent to the REV-X.

Range: -∞ dB – +6.00 dB

) Pan

Adjusts the pan.

Range: L16 – C – R16

! Mute

Turns the mute on (lit) and off (dark).

@ Solo

Turns the solo on (lit) and off (dark).

# +48V

Indicates the on/off status of the phantom power function of the device.

$ Fader

Adjusts the signal level.

Range: -∞ dB – +6.00 dB

4 Phase

Turns on (lit) and off (dark) the phase inversion of the signal.

UR824 Operation Manual 11

Panel Controls for the Software Programs

DAW Area

This is the area for configuring the DAW channel settings.

Master Area

This is the area for configuring the master channel settings.

1 Level Meter

Indicates the signal level.

2 Pan

Adjusts the pan.

Range: L16 – C – R16

3 Mute

Turns the mute on (lit) and off (dark).

4 Solo

Turns the solo on (lit) and off (dark).

5 Fader

Adjusts the signal level.

Range: -∞ dB – +6.00 dB

1 Level Meter

Indicates the signal level.

2 REV-X Send On/Off

Turns the REV-X on (lit) and off (dark).

You can turn this on for one of MIX 1–4.

3 REV-X Edit

Opens (lit) and closes (dark) the “REV-X” (page

22) setup window.

4 REV-X Type

Selects the REV-X type.

Option: Hall, Room, Plate

5 REV-X Time

Adjusts the reverb time of the REV-X. This parameter links to Room Size. The adjustable range varies depending on the REV-X type.

REV-X type Range

Hall 0.103 sec – 31.0 sec

Room 0.152 sec – 45.3 sec

Plate 0.176 sec – 52.0 sec

UR824 Operation Manual 12

+ 28 hidden pages