Steinberger Audiolink 96 User Manual

Table of Contents

1. Introduction........................................................................................................6

2. Package Contents.............................................................................................7

3. System Requirements......................................................................................7

4. Brief Description and Characteristics.........................................................8

5. Technical Specifications.................................................................................8

6. Hardware Installation...................................................................................12

7. Software Installation.....................................................................................13

8. Operation and Usage....................................................................................16

9. Configuring the Digiset or Multiset.........................................................24

10. Word Clock.....................................................................................................37

11. Using more than one Nuendo Audiolink 96......................................39

12. Special Characteristics of the S/P-DIF Output...................................39

13. Operation under ASIO 2.0.........................................................................41

14. TotalMix: Routing and Monitoring........................................................45

15. Notes on using Laptops and CardBus..................................................52

16. Problems and Solutions............................................................................55

17. Software and Hardware Compatibility................................................58

18. Installation problems (Windows)...........................................................58

19. Warranty..........................................................................................................59

20. Trademarks....................................................................................................59

21. Diagrams.........................................................................................................61

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Inhaltsverzeichnis

1. Einleitung..........................................................................................................70

2. Lieferumfang....................................................................................................71

3. Systemvoraussetzungen..............................................................................71

4. Kurzbeschreibung und Eigenschaften....................................................72

5. Technische Merkmale...................................................................................72

6. Installation der Hardware............................................................................76

7. Installation der Treiber..................................................................................77

8. Inbetriebnahme und Bedienung..............................................................80

9. Konfiguration des Digiset bzw. Multiset................................................89

10. Wordclock....................................................................................................103

11. Betrieb mehrerer Nuendo Audiolink 96-Karten.............................105

12. Besonderheiten des S/P-DIF Ausganges..........................................105

13. Betrieb unter ASIO 2.0.............................................................................107

14. TotalMix: Routing und Monitoring.....................................................111

15. Hinweise zu Notebooks und CardBus...............................................119

16. Probleme und Lösungen........................................................................122

17. Soft- und Hardware-Kompatibilität....................................................125

18. Installationsprobleme (Windows).......................................................125

19. Garantie........................................................................................................126

20. Warenzeichen.............................................................................................126

21. Diagramme..................................................................................................128

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NUENDO AUDIOLINK 96

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Nuendo Audiolink 96

Audiolink 96 PCI (PCI Interface Card)

Audiolink 96 Mobile (CardBus Interface Card)

Nuendo Audiolink Digiset (In/Out-Box)

Nuendo Audiolink Multiset (In/Out-Box)

Operation Manual

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1. Introduction

This manual describes how to use the Nuendo Audiolink 96 on computers running different operating systems. If a text section only refers to one of the compatible operating systems, this will be indicated.

Thank you for choosing the Nuendo Audiolink 96. This unique audio system is capable of transferring digital audio data directly to a computer from practically any device equipped with a digital audio interface, be it S/P-DIF, AES/EBU or ADAT optical.

The numerous unique features and well thought-out configuration dialog puts the Nuendo Audiolink 96 at the very top of the range of digital audio interface cards.

The package includes drivers for Windows and MacOS. Installation under Windows is simple, even for the inexperienced user,

thanks to the latest Plug and Play technology and full interrupt-sharing. Our high-performance philosophy guarantees maximum system per-

formance by executing all functions directly in hardware and not in the driver (i.e. the CPU).

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2. Package Contents

Please check that your Nuendo Audiolink 96 system package contains the following:

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Nuendo Audiolink 96

• Audiolink 96 PCI card

• Driver CD

• Cable IEEE1394, 4.5 m

• Internal cable (3 pin)

Audiolink 96 Mobile CardBus Interface Card

• PCMCIA type II CardBus card

• Driver CD

• Cable CardBus to IEEE1394, 4.5 m

• 12 V car cable

• Battery cable

• Power supply 12 V/1.25 A and power cord

Digiset or Multiset-In/Out Box

• Digiset or Multiset I/O box

• 3 optical cable (TOSLINK), 2 m

PCI Interface Card

3. System Requirements

• Windows 98, Windows 2000, Windows XP or MacOS (version 9.1 or later, G3 300 MHz recommended)

• PCI Interface: a free PCI rev. 2.1 Busmaster slot

• CardBus Interface: a free PCMCIA Slot type II, CardBus-compatible

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4. Brief Description and Characteristics

• 0% (zero!) CPU load, even when using all 36 (Multiset) or 52 (Digiset) ASIO channels

• All settings can be changed in real-time

• Enhanced mixed mode: Analog, ADAT In, S/PDIF In, and all outputs can be used

simultaneously (Multiset). ADAT In, S/P-DIF In and all outputs can be used simultaneously (Digiset).

• 8 available buffer sizes/latencies: 1.5 / 3 / 6 / 12 / 23 / 46 / 93 / 186 ms

• Sample Split technology for 4 channels (Multiset) or 12 channels (Digiset)

96 kHz/24-bit record/playback via ADAT optical

• Slave and master clock modes

• Automatic and intelligent master/slave clock control

• Unsurpassed Bitclock PLL (audio synchronization) in ADAT mode

• Word clock input and output

• ADAT Sync in (9-pin D-type) for sample-accurate transfer

• Zero Latency Monitoring: Hardware bypass per track, controlled by Punch in/

out

• Enhanced ZLM for latency-free submixes and perfect ASIO Direct Monitoring

• SyncAlign guarantees sample aligned, non-swapping channels

• SyncCheck tests and reports the synchronization status of input signals

• 1 x MIDI I/O, 16 channels high-speed MIDI (Multiset) or 2 x MIDI I/O, 32 channels

high-speed MIDI (Digiset)

• 1 x Analog Line/headphone output, separate mixer for independent submix

• TotalMix: mixer with 40 bit internal resolution and 720 channels (Multiset) or

1456 channels (Digiset)

5. Technical Specifications

5.1 Digital – Multiset & Digiset

Multiset

• Super Low Jitter Design: < 3 ns word clock PLL, < 2 ns ADAT PLL, < 1 ns internal

• Internal sample rates: 32 / 44.1 / 48 / 88.2 / 96 kHz

• Supported sample rats through word clock: 27 kHz - 103 kHz

• Internal resolution: 24 Bit

• Input PLL ensures zero dropout, even at more than 40 ns jitter

• Bitclock PLL for trouble-free varispeed operation in ADAT mode

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• High-sensitivity input stage (< 0.2 Vss input level)

• Output voltage 0.8V (consumer mode, phono) or 2.3V (professional mode)

• Phono input and output ground-free transformer coupled

• Connectors: optical (TOSLINK), phono, BNC

• Clocks: ADAT Sync In, word clock I/O

• Formats: S/P-DIF (Consumer and Professional), ADAT optical

Digiset

• Super Low jitter S/P-DIF: < 3 ns in PLL mode (44.1 kHz, optical in)

• Super Low jitter ADAT: < 2 ns in PLL mode (44.1 kHz, optical in)

• Input PLL ensures zero dropout, even at more than 40 ns jitter

• Bitclock PLL for trouble-free varispeed operation in ADAT mode

• High-sensitivity input stage (< 0.2 Vss input level)

• Output voltage 0.8V (consumer mode, phono) or 2.3V (professional mode)

• Sample frequencies: 32 / 44.1 / 48 / 88.2 / 96 kHz and variable

• Phono input and output ground-free transformer coupled

• Connectors: optical (TOSLINK), phono, BNC

• Clocks: ADAT Sync In, word clock I/O

• Formats: S/P-DIF (Consumer and Professional), ADAT optical

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5.2 Analog Output – Multiset

Stereo Monitor Output

• Analog output level +8 dBu @ 0 dBFS

• Dynamic range output: 108 dB (RMS unweighted, unmuted), 112 dBA

• THD+N output: -100 dB / 0.001%

• Frequency response DA, -0.1 dB: 20 Hz - 20.8 kHz (sf 44,1 kHz)

• Frequency response DA, -0.5 dB: 10 Hz - 44 kHz (sf 96 kHz)

• Samplerates playback: 32/44.1/48/64/88.2/96 kHz and variable (word clock)

• Ouput impedance: 75 Ohm

• Channel separation: > 110 dB

• Resolution AD: 24 Bit

• Signal to Noise ratio: 101 dB RMS unweighted, 106 dBA

• THD: < -107 dB, < 0.00045 %

• THD+N: < -96 dB, < 0.0016 %

• Crosstalk: > 120 dB

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• Analog headroom prior to AD conversion: 13 dB

• Frequency response AD @ 44.1 kHz, -0.5 dB: 5 Hz - 20.7 kHz

• Frequency response AD @ 96 kHz, -0.5 dB: 5 Hz - 32 kHz

• Input Line: 1/4" TRS jack, servo balanced

• Input impedance Line: > 5 kOhm

• Input sensitivity through jumper: Lo Gain, +4 dBu, -10 dBV

• Input level for 0 dBFS @ Lo Gain: +19 dBu

• Input level for 0 dBFS @ +4 dBu: +13 dBu

• Input level for 0 dBFS @ -10 dBV: +2 dBV

• Resolution DA: 24 Bit

• Signal to Noise ratio: 108 dB RMS unweighted, 111 dBA (unmuted)

• THD: < - 98 dB, < 0.0013 %

• THD+N: < -91 dB, < 0.002 %

• Crosstalk: > 100 dB

• Maximum output level DA: +19 dBu

• Frequency response DA @ 44.1 kHz, -0.5 dB: 5 Hz – 20.9 kHz

• Frequency response DA @ 96 kHz, -0.5 dB: 5 Hz - 35 kHz

• Output Line: 1/4" TRS jack, servo balanced

• Output impedance Line: 47 Ohm

• Output level through jumper: Hi Gain, +4 dBu, -10 dBV

• Output level at 0 dBFS @ Hi Gain: +19 dBu

• Output level at 0 dBFS @ +4 dBu: +13 dBu

• Output level at 0 dBFS @ -10 dBV: +2 dBV

5.3 Analog Output – Digiset

• Analog output level +10 dBu @ 0 dBFS

• Dynamic range output: 108 dB (RMS unweighted, unmuted), 112 dBA

• THD+N output: -100 dB / 0.001%

• Frequency response DA, -0.1 dB: 20 Hz - 20.8 kHz (sf 44,1 kHz)

• Frequency response DA, -0.5 dB: 10 Hz - 44 kHz (sf 96 kHz)

• Sample rates playback: 32 / 44.1 / 48 / 64 / 88.2 / 96 kHz and variable (word

clock)

• Ouput impedance: 75 Ohm

• Channel separation: > 110 dB

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5.4 Transfer Modes: Resolution/Bits per Sample Windows

ASIO:

24 or 32 bit, 4 bytes stereo 8 bytes

This format is compatible with 16-bit and 20-bit. Resolutions below 24bit are handled by the audio application.

MME:

16 bit, 2 bytes stereo 4 bytes 20 bit, 3 bytes MSB stereo 6 bytes 20 bit, 4 bytes MSB stereo 8 bytes 24 bit, 3 bytes stereo 6 bytes 24 bit, 4 bytes MSB stereo 8 bytes 32 bit, 4 bytes stereo 8 bytes

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Channel Interleave operation is not supported. As no additional Channel Status bits are transferred TMS (Track Marker Support) is not available.

Macintosh

32 bit, 4 bytes stereo 8 bytes

This format is compatible with 16-bit and 20-bit. Resolutions below 24bit are handled by the audio application. The card works internally with 32-bit data, but audio data transfer is limited to 24-bits.

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6. Hardware Installation

6.1 Audiolink 96 PCI Interface

Before installing the PCI card, please make sure the computer is switched off and the power cable is disconnected from the mains supply. Inserting or removing a PCI card while the computer is in operation can cause irreparable damage to both motherboard and card!

1. Disconnect the power cord and all other cables from the computer.

2. Remove the computer's housing. Further information on how to do this can be found in your computer´s instruction manual.

3. Important: Before removing the card from its protective bag, discharge any static in your body by touching the metal chassis of the PC.

4. Insert the PCI card firmly into a free PCI slot, press and fasten the screw.

5. Replace the computer's housing.

6. Reconnect all cables including the power cord.

7. Connect PCI interface and Digiset using the supplied cable (IEEE1394). This is a standard Firewire cable (6-pin).

6.2 Audiolink 96 Mobile Card

Before inserting the CardBus card make sure the complete Audiolink 96 system is ready for operation!

1. Connect the CardBus card with the Digiset using the supplied cable.

2. Insert the CardBus card with the Nuendo logo up into a PCMCIA slot.

3. Plug the power jack of the supplied switching power supply into the connector labeled AUX, on the rear of the Digiset.

4. Connect power cord to power supply, plug into AC outlet. The green LED of the power supply and the red LED of the Digiset will light up.

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5. Switch on the notebook and boot the operating system.

The small 15-pin connector of the CardBus card is coded. Only the supplied special cable can be plugged in, and only when the metal sleeve is up. Forcefully plugging in or out can cause damage to the CardBus card.

7. Software Installation

7.1 Windows 98

After the interface has been installed and connected to the Digiset or Multiset (see page 12), and the computer has been switched on, Windows will recognize the new hardware component and start its ‘Add New Hardware Wizard’. Insert the Driver CD into your CD-ROM drive and follow the instructions on your computer screen.

Windows will install the Nuendo Audiolink 96 System driver and register the card in the system as a new audio device. The Nuendo Audiolink 96 system is now ready for use.

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Unfortunately, there are rare cases where the CD-ROM path (i.e. its driveletter) has to be typed in again during the copy process.

The Audiolink 96 system can be easily configured via its Settings dialog (see page 27).

7.2 Windows 2000

After the interface has been installed and connected to the Digiset or Multiset (see page 12), and the computer has been switched on, Windows will recognize the new hardware component and start its ‘Hardware Wizard’. Insert the Driver CD into your CD-ROM drive and follow the instructions on your computer screen. The driver files are located in the directory

Windows will install the Nuendo Audiolink 96 System driver and register the card in the system as a new audio device. After a reboot the Nuendo Audiolink 96 system is ready for use.

\win2000

on the Driver CD.

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Unfortunately, there are rare cases where the CD-ROM path (i.e. its driveletter) has to be typed in again during the copy process.

The Audiolink 96 system can be easily configured via its Settings dialog (see page 27).

In case the warning messages 'Digital signature not found' or 'Do not install driver' appear, don't worry, just continue with the installation.

7.3 Macintosh

First fit the card (see page 12), then switch on the computer and install the drivers from the Driver CD. The driver files are located in the folder 'Nuendo Audiolink 96'.

In case a newer driver version was downloaded from the website, doubleclick the 'madsp_x.sit' archive to decompress it into separate files (using 'Aladin Stuffit Expander').

If you already installed an older version of the driver first make sure to remove it. To do so open the 'Extensions' folder which is inside your 'System' folder. Remove the file 'Nuendo Audiolink 96 Driver'. Also remove 'Nuendo Audiolink 96 Settings' from the directory where it was copied to. Remove the 'Nuendo Audiolink 96 ASIO' driver file from any 'ASIO Drivers' folder.

Drag the new file Nuendo Audiolink 96 Driver to the System folder. It will be installed automatically into the 'Extension' folder. Confirm the system's message to complete the installation. The driver file must now be located in the 'Extension' folder.

Copy the new files Nuendo Audiolink 96 Settings and Nuendo

Audiolink 96 ASIO into all 'ASIO Drivers' folders found on your com-

puter. As every ASIO software has its own ASIO Drivers folder the files have to be copied several times.

Configuration of the Nuendo Audiolink 96 is done through the Settings dialog, which can be called from within any ASIO compatible software (for example Audio/System/ASIO Control Panel). To be able to call up the Settings dialog at any time we recommend to create an alias on the

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desktop. To create an alias select 'Nuendo Audiolink 96 Settings' with the mouse cursor, press and hold the [Apple] and [Alt] keys on your keyboard, and drag 'Nuendo Audiolink 96 Settings' to the desired location. See also page 24.

The driver archive includes not only the three driver files Nuendo Audiolink 96 Driver, Nuendo Audiolink 96 Settings and Nuendo Audiolink 96 ASIO, but also the following files:

digibox.bin Firmware of the Digiset I/O box default.mix Default settings for TotalMix default.vol Default settings for Digiset, as long as TotalMix

isn't started

preset1.mix to preset8.mix

Presets for the Audiolink 96 mixer

These files must all be copied to the System folder 'Preferences'!

The file 'digibox.bin' includes the firmware of the Digiset, which is loaded automatically into the Digiset during boot of the computer.

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The files 'default.mix' and 'default.vol' include the latest mixer state. The files 'preset1.mix' to 'preset8.mix' include the complete mixer state,

which can be called via the Preset buttons in the Quick Access Panel of TotalMix.

The file ' Nuendo Audiolink 96 TotalMix ' can be copied to any location. When started the Audiolink 96 mixer comes up and allows you to configure the digital real-time mixer of the Digiset.

TotalMix requires Carbon Library 1.1, which is part of the operating system since MacOS 9.1. After installation of Carbon Library 1.1 TotalMix can even be run on older systems (down to 8.6).

To finish installation reboot the computer.

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8. Operation and Usage

8.1 Connections

Digiset

The front of the I/O-box Digiset has the second MIDI input and output, the analog stereo output of the digital mixer, and several status LEDs:

MIDI State indicates sent or received data separately for each MIDI

port.

Input State indicates a valid input signal separately for each input.

SyncCheck shows through a blinking LED which of the input signals is locked but not in sync with the others. See page 31.

The red HOST LED lights up when the power supply or the computer is switched on, this signalling the presence of operating voltage. At the same time it operates as Error LED, in case the I/O-box wasn’t initialised, or the connection to the interface has been interrupted (cable not connected etc.).

Phones is a low impedance line output of highest quality which can

produce sufficient volume undistorted even in connected headphones.

The back of the Digiset has the first MIDI input and output, the power supply connector AUX (only needed with CardBus operation), and all digital inputs and outputs:

ADAT I/O (TOSLINK), 1 to 3. The ADAT1 I/O can also be used for optical

S/P-DIF, if this mode is selected in the Settings dialog.

S/P-DIF I/O coaxial (phono). Wordclock I/O (BNC). ADAT Sync In (D-sub 9-pin).

The S/P-DIF inputs are selected via the Settings dialog (started by clicking on the Nuendo symbol in the system tray). The Audiolink 96 system accepts the commonly used digital audio formats, S/P-DIF as well as AES/EBU. Channel status and copy protection are ignored.

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In S/P-DIF mode, identical signals are available at both the optical and the coaxial outputs. An obvious use for this would be simply connecting two devices, i.e. using the Audiolink 96 as a splitter (distribution 1 on 2).

To receive signals in AES/EBU format, an adapter cable is required. Pins 2 and 3 of an XLR plug are connected individually to the two pins of a phono plug. The cable shielding is

only connected to pin 1 of the XLR - not to the phono plug. The ground-free design using transformers for digital inputs and out-

puts enables trouble-free connection even to AES/EBU devices, and perfect hum rejection.

Multiset

The front of the I/O-box Multiset has the second MIDI input and output, the analog stereo output of the digital mixer, and several status LEDs:

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MIDI State indicates sent or received data separately for each MIDI

port.

Input State indicates a valid input signal separately for each input.

SyncCheck shows through a blinking LED which of the input signals is locked but not in sync with the others. See “9.2 Clock Modes - Synchronization” on page 31.

The red HOST LED lights up when the power supply or the computer is switched on, thus signalling the presence of operating voltage. At the same time it operates as Error LED, in case the I/O-box wasn’t initialised, or the connection to the interface has been interrupted (Error, cable not connected etc.).

Phones is a low impedance line output of highest quality which can

produce sufficient volume undistorted even in connected headphones.

The back of the Multiset has the first MIDI input and output, the power supply connector AUX (only needed with CardBus operation), and all digital inputs and outputs:

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ADAT I/O (TOSLINK), 1 to 3. The ADAT1 I/O can also be used for optical

S/P-DIF, if this mode is selected in the Settings dialog.

S/P-DIF I/O coaxial (phono). Word clock I/O (BNC). ADAT Sync In (D-sub 9-pin).

To receive signals in AES/EBU format, an adapter cable is required. Pins 2 and 3 of an XLR plug are connected individually to the two pins of a phono plug. The cable shielding is

only connected to pin 1 of the XLR - not to the phono plug. The ground-free design using transformers for digital inputs and out-

puts enables trouble-free connection even to AES/EBU devices, and perfect hum rejection.

8.2 Windows MME Playback

The Audiolink 96 system automatically outputs digital audio data using the wave file's parameters in case they are supported. Otherwise an error message appears.

In the audio application being used, Audiolink 96 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 recommend using 24-bit resolution for playback, to make full use of the Audiolink 96’s potential.

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We strongly recommend switching all system sounds off (via >Control Panel/Sounds<). Also Audiolink 96 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<.

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The screenshot above shows a typical configuration dialog as displayed by a (stereo) wave editor. After selecting a device, audio data is sent either to S/P-DIF or to the ADAT ports, depending on which has been selected as playback device.

Increasing the number and/or size of audio buffers may prevent the audio signal from breaking up, but also increases latency, i.e. output is delayed. For synchronized playback of audio and MIDI (or similar), be sure to activate the checkbox ‘Get position from audio driver’. Even at higher buffer settings in a mixed Audio/MIDI environment, sync problems will not arise because the Nuendo Audiolink 96 always reports the current play position correctly (even while recording - essential for chase lock synchronization).

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The Audiolink 96 system’s ADAT optical interface allows sample rates of up to 96 kHz using a standard ADAT recorder. Single-channel data at this frequency requires two ADAT channels, achieved using the ‘Sample Split’ technique. This reduces the number of available ADAT channels from 24 to 12. Under Windows MME, channels are routed to ADAT devices in double-speed mode as follows:

• Only stereo pairs (1+2) and (3+4) of each ADAT port are available

• Channel 1 is routed to channels 1 and 2, channel 2 is routed to 3 and 4 etc.

Please refer to the diagram ‘ADAT Track Routing, MME 96 kHz’. Routing for record and playback is identical.

8.3 Windows MME 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, three unique features are included in the Nuendo Audiolink 96 system: a comprehensive I/O signal status display (showing sample frequency, lock and sync status) in the Settings dialog, status LEDs for each input, and the Check Input safety function.

If a 48 kHz signal is fed to the input and the application is set to 44.1 kHz, Check Input stops the system from recording. This prevents faulty takes, which often go unnoticed until later on in the production. Such tracks appear to have the wrong playback rate - the audio quality as such is not affected.

The sample frequency shown in the Settings dialog (see section “9. Configuring the Digiset or Multiset” on page 24) is useful as a quick display of the current configuration (the board itself and all connected external equipment). If no sample frequency is recognized, it will read ‘No Lock’.

With this configuration any suitable audio application for digital recording is simple. After selecting the required input, Nuendo Audiolink 96 displays the current sample frequency. This parameter can then be changed in the application’s audio attributes (or similar) dialog.

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The screenshot to the left 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 either be done at zero latency using TotalMix (see the section “14. TotalMix: Routing and Monitoring” on page 45) or via the Nuendo Audiolink 96 system’s useful real-time input monitor function (see Monitoring in the Settings dialog). Activating Record or Pause in the application causes the input signal to be routed directly to the corresponding output.

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Currently two solutions exist which enable an automated control of real-time monitoring. ZLM (Zero Latency Monitoring) allows monitoring in Punch I/O mode - with this the system behaves like a tape machine. This method has been implemented in all versions of Samplitude (by SEK’D), and can be activated using the global track option 'Hardware monitoring during Punch'.

The other solution is 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 Record is started. As opposed to ZLM the monitored signal can be freely mixed and routed, and is not restricted to the same channel.

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8.4 Recording analog – Multiset

For recordings via the analog inputs the corresponding record device has to be chosen (Audiolink 96 Analog (x+x)). Apart from the internal jumpers which set the basic operating level, the Multiset has no means to change the input level. This would make no sense for the digital inputs, but also for the analog inputs one can do without it. It doesn't matter if the Multiset is operated at a mixing desk or a multichannel Mic preamp, in either case the level can be controlled directly at the source to match the Multiset's sensitivity perfectly.

The input sensitivity of the analog inputs can be changed through internal jumpers to meet the most often used studio levels, see page 35.

8.5 Analog Inputs – Multiset

The Multiset provides 8 balanced Line inputs via 1/4" TRS (stereo) jacks. The electronic input stage is built in a servo balanced design which handles monaural and stereo jacks correctly. When used unbalanced it automatically corrects the gain by 6 dB.

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When using unbalanced cables with stereo TRS jacks, the 'ring' contact of the cable's jack should be connected to pin 1 (ground). Otherwise noise may occur, caused by the unconnected negative input of the balanced input.

One of the main issues when working with an AD-converter is to maintain the full dynamic range within the best operating level. Therefore the Multiset includes internal jumpers which allow a perfect adaptation for all 8 channels seperately to the three most often used studio levels.

The 'standardized' studio levels do not result in a (often desired) full scale level, but take some additional digital headroom into consideration. The amount of headroom is different in different standards and again differently implemented by different manufacturers. Because of this we decided to define the levels of the Multiset in a most compatible way.

Reference 0 dBFS @ Headroom

Lo Gain +19 dBu 15 dB +4 dBu +13 dBu 9 dB

-10 dBV +2 dBV 12 dB

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The device ships with +4 dBu as factory default. The according headroom meets the latest EBU recommendations for Broadcast usage. At -10 dBV 12 to 15 dB headroom are common practice, each mixing desk operating at -10 dBV is able to send and receive much higher levels. Lo Gain allows to work with high levels, best suited for professional users who prefer to work balanced and at highest levels.

Information on how to change the jumpers can be found in the section “9.3 Changing the Jumper Settings – Multiset” on page 35.

8.6 Analog Outputs – Multiset

The 8 short circuit protected, low impedance and servo balanced line outputs are available as (stereo) 1/4" TRS jacks. The electronic output stage is built in a servo balanced design which handles monaural and stereo jacks correctly. When used unbalanced it automatically corrects the gain by 6 dB.

To maintain an optimum level for devices connected to the analog outputs the Multiset includes internal jumpers which allow to change the level of all 8 outputs separately.

As with the analog inputs the analog output levels are defined to maintain a problem-free operation with most other devices. The headroom of the Multiset lies between 9 and 15 dB, according to the chosen reference level:

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Reference 0 dBFS @ Headroom

Hi Gain +19 dBu 15 dB +4 dBu +13 dBu 9 dB

-10 dBV +2 dBV 12 dB

The device ships with +4 dBu as factory default. The according headroom meets the latest EBU recommendations for Broadcast usage. At -10 dBV 12 to 15 dB headroom are common practice, each mixing desk operating at -10 dBV is able to send and receive much higher levels. Hi Gain allows to work with high levels, best suited for professional users who prefer to work balanced and at highest levels.

Information on how to change the jumpers can be found on page 35.

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9. Configuring the Digiset or Multiset

9.1 General Information Macintosh

Configuring the Audiolink 96 system is done using its own settings dialog, the program Audiolink 96 Settings.

The Audiolink 96’s hardware offers a number of helpful, well thoughtthrough 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

• Output mode

• Output channel status

• Synchronization behaviour

• Input and output status display

• Time code display

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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 recording 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 signals. ‘SyncCheck’ indicates whether there is a valid signal for each input (‘Lock’ or ‘No Lock’), or if there is a valid and synchronous signal (‘Sync’). The ‘Sync Ref’ display shows the input and frequency of the current sync source.

'Time Code' displays time information received from the card’s ADAT Sync In. This is convenient for checking whether the system is running in time with the transmitting device (e.g. ADAT).

Buffer Size

The setting ‘Buffer Size’ determines the latency between incoming and outgoing data, as well as affecting system stability (see section “9.3 Changing the Jumper Settings – Multiset” on page 35). We recommend selecting the highest value here (8192 samples) - the board itself will still run comfortably. Under Windows MME, buffer sizes (and therefore latency) can only be set within the audio application being used. Under GSIF the latency is fixed.

ENGLISH

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S/P-DIF In

Defines the input for the S/P-DIF signal. 'Coaxial' relates to the phono socket, 'ADAT1' to the optical input ADAT1.

S/P-DIF Out

The S/P-DIF output signal is constantly available at the phono plug. After selecting 'ADAT1' it is also routed to the optical output ADAT1. For further details about the settings ‘Professional’, ‘Emphasis’ and ‘NonAudio’, please refer to chapter 12.

Clock Mode

The card can be configured to use the following clock sources: external input signal as pre-defined via Pref. Sync Ref (AutoSync), internal clock (Master), or external word clock signal (Word Clock).

Pref. Sync Ref

Used to pre-select the desired clock source. If the selected source isn't available the card will change to the next available one. The currently used clock source and sample rate is displayed in the SyncRef display.

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Options

'Alt. ASIO Mode' activates a different ASIO callback method. This setting is performed in real-time and under operation. Therefore it's very easy to check whether this setting results in any performance advantages. Try this setting if you use software produced by other manufacturers.

I/O-Box State

This display shows the current state of the I/O-box:

I/O Box error I/O-box not connected or missing power. I/O Box detected The interface has found a I/O-box and tries to load the firmware. I/O Box locked Communication between interface and I/O-box ok.

Windows

Configuring the Audiolink 96 system is done using its own settings dialog. The panel 'Settings' can be opened in two different ways:

• By clicking on the Nuendo symbol in the Taskbar's system tray

• By starting the 'Audiolink 96_Set' link from the Desktop

ENGLISH

The mixer of the Nuendo Audiolink 96 System (TotalMix) can be opened in two different ways:

• By clicking on the mixer icon in the Taskbar's system tray

• By starting the 'Audiolink 96_Mix' link from the Desktop

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The Nuendo Audiolink 96’s hardware offers a number of helpful, well thought-through 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:

Digiset Settings Multiset Settings

• Input selection

• Output mode

• Output channel status

• Synchronization behaviour

• Input and output status display

• Time code display

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 recording 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.

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'Time Code' displays time information received from the card’s ADAT Sync In. This is convenient for checking whether the system is running in time with the transmitting device (e.g. ADAT).

Buffer Size

The setting ‘Buffer Size’ determines the latency between incoming and outgoing data, as well as affecting system stability (see section “13. Operation under ASIO 2.0” on page 41). We recommend selecting the highest value here (8192 samples) – the board itself will still run comfortably. Under Windows MME, buffer sizes (and therefore latency) can only be set within the audio application being used. Under GSIF the latency is fixed.

S/P-DIF In

Defines the input for the S/P-DIF signal. 'Coaxial' relates to the phono socket, 'ADAT1' to the optical input ADAT1.

S/P-DIF Out

ENGLISH

Digiset Settings

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Clock Mode

The card can be configured to use the following clock sources: external input signal as pre-defined via Pref. Sync Ref (AutoSync), internal clock (Master), or external word clock signal (Word Clock).

Pref. Sync Ref

Used to pre-select the desired clock source. If the selected source isn't available the card will change to the next available one. The currently

Multiset Settings

used clock source and sample rate is displayed in the SyncRef display.

MME

'Check Input' verifies the current input signal against the settings in the record program. When de-activated a record will always be allowed, even with non-valid input signals. 'Monitoring' activates the automatic pass-through of the input signal when in record mode. Both settings are valid for MME only.

I/O-Box State

This display shows the current state of the I/O-box:

I/O Box error I/O-box not connected or missing power. I/O Box detected The interface has found a I/O-box and tries to load the firmware. I/O Box locked Communication between interface and I/O-box ok.

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