tascam SX-1 User Guide

Digital Audio Production Environment

9101438700

REFERENCE MANUAL

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2 TASCAM SX-1 Reference Manual

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TASCAM SX-1 Reference Manual 3

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4 TASCAM SX-1 Reference Manual

Part I — Manuals & Conventions

Table of Contents

Chapter 1 – The Manuals

Manual Descriptions .................................. 10

Owner's Manual .............................................10

Quick Start Guide............................................10

Manual Organization ................................. 10

Documentation Conventions..................... 11

Tips...................................................................11

Chapter 2 – Operating Conventions

Front Panel.................................................. 12

Multi-Function Keys........................................12

Data Entry .......................................................12

Keypad.............................................................12

Ancillary Keys ............................................. 13

Jog/Shuttle Wheel ..........................................13

Virtual Channel Pots.......................................13

Fader Banks.....................................................14

LCD Display ................................................. 14

VGA or LCD......................................................14

LCD Navigation ...............................................14

Common Soft Knobs & Keys..........................15

Soft Keys......................................................... 15

Soft Knobs ......................................................15

VGA Display................................................. 15

Screen Navigation .......................................... 15

Tracks Display................................................. 16

Mouse Conventions ....................................... 16

Tabs ................................................................. 17

Main Menu Items ...........................................17

Zoom & Scroll.................................................. 17

Main Menu Bar Elements............................... 17

Transport & Record Keys ............................... 17

MIDI Panic ....................................................... 17

Tool Select....................................................... 17

Grid Select....................................................... 18

Nudge & Grid Settings ................................... 18

Edit Length Grids............................................ 18

Time Signature Selector................................. 18

Tempo & Click Management ......................... 18

Project & Mix Menus......................................19

Main Time Code Display ................................ 19

Common buttons ........................................20

Part II — Monitoring Signals and Selecting Screens

Chapter 3 – Monitoring Audio

Output Control ........................................... 21

Monitor Section ..............................................21

CONTROL ROOM.............................................21

STUDIO Section...............................................22

TALKBACK Select ............................................22

Monitor Level..................................................23

SOLO Section...................................................23

HEADPHONES..................................................23

TRANSPORT SOLO...........................................24

Part III — Locate, Transport, & Surround

Chapter 6 – Transport, Loop, Auto Punch

Transport Controls ..................................... 31

Front Panel ......................................................31

JUMP KEY MODE ........................................31

VGA Transport ................................................32

LCD Transport .................................................32

ADD .............................................................33

EDIT ..............................................................33

P2 Remote Machine Control in the SX-1... 34

The Philosophy................................................34

General SX-1 Transport Controls...................34

Customizing the Devices................................34

Chapter 4 – Metering & Indicators

Reading LED Meters....................................25

Master Meter Section..................................... 25

Chapter 5 – Selecting Screens

Screen Controls ...........................................27

Main Display Key............................................ 27

Main Display Mode Section........................... 27

View Menu...................................................... 28

LCD ACCESS Section....................................... 29

LCD Screen ...................................................... 29

Working with External Timecode Sources ...35

LOOP Section .................................................. 37

Auto Record Controls (AUTOPUNCH Section)37

Chapter 7 – Locate Points

Creating Locate Points................................ 38

Create a Locate Point ..................................... 38

Recalling & Editing Locate Points.................. 38

VGA Locate Control .................................... 39

LCD Locate Control .....................................40

LOCATE POINTS .............................................. 40

REGISTERS....................................................... 40

TASCAM SX-1 Reference Manual 5

Table of Contents

Chapter 8 – Surround

Setting Up Surround...................................41

Making the Change to Surround................... 41

LCD Access to Surround .................................41

Part IV — Mixer Controls

Chapter 9 – Channel Control

Front Panel...................................................45

Channel Strips.................................................45

Master Channel ..........................................45

Virtual Channel............................................... 46

Screen Control (VGA Channel Display) .........47

CONTROL .....................................................47

POSITION .....................................................48

GROUPS .......................................................48

AUX SEND ...................................................48

EQ ................................................................49

DYNAMICS ..................................................49

Compressor & Expander ............................50

Gate .............................................................50

LCD Channel Display ......................................51

DYN .............................................................51

Aux ON/OFF ................................................ 51

AUX Pre/Post ..............................................51

Links ............................................................51

Buss Routing ............................................... 52

INPUT button ..............................................52

INSERT button .............................................52

TRIM/CH DELAY Screen ..............................52

EQ, Dynamics and Scene Libraries - The Library

Feature ......................................................53

VGA Displays...................................................53

LCD Displays....................................................53

DYNAMICS LIBRARY ...................................53

Scene library................................................54

VGA Scene Tab................................................54

LCD SCENE LIBRARY Screen ...........................55

IMPORT ........................................................55

Chapter 10 – Library Overview

Understanding the Library Feature ...........56

Library Section................................................ 56

Chapter 11 – Routing & Bussing

Working With the SX-1’s Routing Pages ...57

The philosophy ...............................................57

VGA Routing Displays ....................................57

Panel Routing .............................................57

Mixer Routing .............................................58

Before we continue, a word about mixer Bypass

and Loopback ..............................................58

HDR Routing ...............................................58

Effects Routing ...........................................58

Insert Presets ..............................................59

Surround Modes Explained........................... 41

Understanding the Changes ...................... 42

VGA Channel .................................................. 42

Routing Surround Busses........................... 44

LCD Routing Displays..................................... 59

Inserts – how they work and how to route

them............................................................. 59

VGA ................................................................. 60

Actually routing the insert to a mixer

channel ........................................................ 61

LCD .................................................................. 62

Actually routing the insert to a mixer

channel ........................................................ 62

ANALOG IN ..................................................... 63

Bussing ........................................................ 63

VGA Controls.................................................. 63

Buss Masters ............................................... 64

LCD Buss: Controls ......................................... 64

MACRO ....................................................... 65

Buss Assign ................................................. 65

Aux Sends & Returns.................................. 65

VGA Aux Send Controls................................. 65

Aux Send Masters .......................................... 66

LCD Aux Send Controls.................................. 66

VGA Aux Return Masters............................... 67

Routing Library Displays ............................ 68

VGA Routing Library Display......................... 68

LCD Routing Library Display.......................... 68

Chapter 12 – Fader Links, Groups, & Banks

Links............................................................. 69

VGA Fader Links ............................................. 69

LCD Fader Links .............................................. 69

MACRO ....................................................... 70

LINKS ........................................................... 70

Groups ......................................................... 71

VGA Fader Groups.......................................... 71

LCD Fader Groups........................................... 71

Understanding Group Masters...................... 72

Fader Banks................................................. 73

Fader Bank Section......................................... 73

VGA Fader Banks............................................ 74

USER Fader Banks........................................... 75

Creating a User Fader bank (VGA) ................ 75

User Fader Banks (LCD).................................. 76

VGA Bank Menu ......................................... 76

Channel Overview Screens ........................ 77

VGA Buss Overview Screen........................... 77

LCD Buss Overview Screen............................ 78

LCD Mixer Overview Screen.......................... 78

VGA Input Overview Screen.......................... 79

6 TASCAM SX-1 Reference Manual

Table of Contents

Chapter 13 – Automation

Understanding Modes & States................. 80

Controller States......................................... 80

Automatic (Auto)............................................80

Static................................................................80

Write................................................................80

Trim..................................................................81

Safe..................................................................81

Off....................................................................81

Global Modes.............................................. 81

Global Write....................................................81

Trim..................................................................81

Init Edit ............................................................82

Rehearse Functionality...................................83

Global Controls........................................... 84

Mix Displays................................................ 84

VGA Mix Tab ...................................................84

LCD MIX Screen...............................................85

Automation Controls ................................. 86

Front Panel Controls.......................................86

VGA Automation Screen............................ 88

Automation Track Area..................................89

Auto Track.......................................................89

Edit Operations (Region/Event select) ..........90

When nothing is selected ..........................90

A region is selected ....................................90

Events selected ........................................... 90

Edit Operations (Pencil Tool)......................... 90

Edit Operations (Curve Tool)......................... 90

LCD CHANNEL screen..................................91

Automation Events & History Screens ......91

Event List Tab .................................................91

Edit Operation ............................................ 91

History Tab...................................................... 92

VGA Automation Global Tab .....................92

Dynamic Automation ................................. 92

LCD GLOBAL Screen....................................94

Operations Examples..................................95

Writing Mix Moves......................................... 95

Revert Time..................................................... 95

Writing Switch Events.................................... 100

Revert Time..................................................... 100

Disabling Control Sense Timeout.................. 102

Trimming Mix Moves ..................................... 102

Revert Time..................................................... 103

Automating Library Recall..........................104

Writing Library Recall Events Over Existing Static

Control Positions......................................... 104

Combining Library Recall With Dynamic Mix

Moves........................................................... 105

Automating Groups.................................... 105

Part V — Effects

Chapter 14 – Working with Effects

The Philosophy – how it works................. 106

VGA Effects Screens ................................... 106

Routing Effects Screens ............................. 107

VGA EFFECTS SLOT/ROUTING Module ..........107

Effect Slot ....................................................107

LCD Effects Routing Screen............................107

EFFECTS .......................................................107

Effects Controls Displays ........................... 108

VGA EFFECTS CONTROLS Screen ...................108

LCD EFFECTS Control Screen ..........................108

Effects Library Displays.............................. 109

VGA EFFECTS LIBRARY Screen .......................109

LCD FX LIBRARY Screens ................................110

Routing Effect Examples............................ 111

Aux Send & Return .........................................111

Inserting an Effect ..........................................111

Part VI — Audio tracks

Chapter 15 – Examples of Effect Algorithms

Categories.................................................... 112

Common Effect Parameters........................ 112

Examples...................................................... 113

Antares Mic Modeler...................................... 113

Signal Flow ................................................. 113

Input Section ..............................................113

Source Mic Section ..................................... 114

Modeled Mic Section .................................115

Preserve Source .......................................... 116

Tube Saturation .......................................... 116

Antares Speaker Modeler...........................117

Tascam DeEssor...........................................117

Tascam Exciter (Stereo) ..............................118

Tascam/Nemesys HD1 Dither.....................118

Type ............................................................. 118

TC SX-1 Reverb............................................ 119

Level Mix Controls .....................................119

Time Editor .................................................120

Chapter 16 – Working with Audio Regions

Essential Tools ............................................ 122

Tool Select Menu ............................................122

VGA Waveform Tab........................................122

Edit Operation.................................................123

Event Editor ................................................123

HyperSelect ................................................. 123

Move ........................................................... 123

Render ......................................................... 123

Repeat Selection ......................................... 123

Reverse ........................................................ 123

Gain/Fade .................................................... 123

Normalize .................................................... 123

TASCAM SX-1 Reference Manual 7

Table of Contents

Remove DC ..................................................123

LCD WAVEFORM Screen................................. 124

SELECT .........................................................124

Managing Audio Takes...............................124

VGA Take Browser Tab ..................................125

Audio Clips...................................................125

VGA Clip Browser Tab.................................... 125

Part VII — MIDI Sequencing

Chapter 18 – Essential Controls

MIDI Sequencer ...........................................133

MIDI REC MODE Section.................................133

VGA Tracks Display of MIDI........................133

MIDI Tracks......................................................133

LCD Tracks Display of MIDI.........................134

VGA MIDI Channel Display .........................135

LCD MIDI Channel Display ..........................136

Global Controls............................................136

VGA Global Tab ..............................................136

MIDI Input Settings ........................................138

LCD MIDI Settings Screen...............................139

VGA MIDI Track Tab .......................................139

Transpose........................................................ 144

Transpose Mode ......................................... 144

Track Offset.....................................................145

RELATED LCD screens..................................... 145

Step Record Mode.......................................146

Step Parameters..............................................146

Step Recording................................................147

TIME/TEMPO Management ........................148

VGA Control.................................................148

Accent ..........................................................148

Non Accent ..................................................148

LCD TIME/TEMPO Screens..............................149

Managing MIDI Takes .................................150

VGA Take Browser Tab ..................................150

Managing MIDI Files ...................................150

Standard MIDI Files ........................................151

VGA SMF Management Tab........................... 151

VGA Main Menu SMF Commands .................151

MIDI Monitoring..........................................152

MIDI Overview Screen....................................152

LCD MIDI In Overview Screen........................153

LCD MIDI Out Overview Screen..................... 153

MIDI Naming Tab............................................154

Chapter 19 – MIDI Editing

Tools & Screens ...........................................155

Chapter 17 – Editing Audio

Edit Controls................................................ 127

EDIT ................................................................. 127

NUDGE SETTING ......................................... 127

Editing............................................................. 128

VGA Edit Menu ........................................... 131

Auditioning Edits........................................ 132

AUDITION Section .......................................... 132

A recap — onscreen tools for working with MIDI

events .......................................................... 155

Using the Tools............................................... 155

MIDI Piano Roll Screens.............................. 159

VGA Piano Roll ............................................... 159

Edit Operation................................................ 159

Add Note .................................................... 159

Add Program Change ................................ 159

Adjust Duration .......................................... 159

Adjust Velocity ........................................... 159

Crescendo ................................................... 160

Event Editor.................................................... 160

HyperSelect..................................................... 160

Move ............................................................... 160

Quantize ......................................................... 161

Randomize Duration...................................... 161

Randomize Time............................................. 161

Randomize Velocity ....................................... 161

Repeat Selection............................................. 161

Reverse............................................................ 161

Set Duration ................................................... 161

Set Min/Max Duration................................... 161

Set Min/Max Velocity .................................... 162

Set Velocity..................................................... 162

Smooth Events ............................................... 162

Split Notes ...................................................... 162

Step Record..................................................... 162

Transpose........................................................ 162

Trim Duration ................................................. 162

Trim Velocity................................................... 162

LCD Piano Roll............................................. 163

Event Lists ................................................... 163

VGA Event List................................................ 163

Edit Operations .............................................. 164

Add Lyric ..................................................... 164

Add Time Signature ................................... 164

Tempo Change ........................................... 164

LCD Event List................................................. 165

FILTER .......................................................... 165

JUMP ........................................................... 165

OPTION ....................................................... 165

Part VIII — Data Entry, System & File Management

Chapter 20 – Project Management

Important Screens .......................................166

New Project Screens....................................166

VGA New Project Tab..................................... 166

LCD New Project Screen................................. 167

Manage Project screens.............................. 167

VGA Manage Project Tab............................... 167

8 TASCAM SX-1 Reference Manual

Table of Contents

“Safe” startup .................................................168

LCD Manage Screen........................................168

FUNCTIONS ..................................................168

LCD Open Screen ............................................169

Main Menu Bar Project Commands...............169

Chapter 21 – Mixdown, Author, Backup

The SX-1 and Mixdown Mode................... 170

Philosophy – how it works.............................170

Stereo Mixdown – printing your final mix or

comping tracks.............................................170

On the VGA .....................................................170

On the LCD ......................................................171

In Surround Mode – what changes? .............172

On the VGA .....................................................172

On the LCD ......................................................172

Working With the CD Burner .................... 173

ISO Data CD ................................................ 173

Red Book Audio CD .................................... 174

The SX-1 and Hard Drives .......................... 175

Care and feeding, and audio file behavior...175

The Philosophy – drives in general................175

Drives and the SX-1 ........................................176

What is actually put on the drive..................176

What is happening when the SX-1 is

recording......................................................177

The way the SX-1 handles data.....................177

Explanation of Disk Cleanup and Low Level

Format ..........................................................178

How the Backup file is made .........................178

Quick general behavior.................................. 178

Backing Up................................................... 179

Backup Displays.............................................. 179

VGA Project Backup Tab ................................179

LCD Backup Screen......................................... 180

Drive Settings..............................................180

VGA Drive Setup Tab ..................................... 180

LCD Drives Screen........................................... 181

Chapter 22 – System Settings

Preferences.................................................. 182

Preferences Screens ....................................182

VGA UI Settings Tab....................................... 182

LCD Meter Screen........................................... 183

LCD Miscellaneous Screen ............................. 183

LCD Time Screen............................................. 184

About your SX-1............................................. 184

The SX-1 Menu ...............................................185

System Settings...........................................185

System Settings Screens ................................ 185

VGA Global Tab System Settings .................. 185

LCD Hard Drive (HDR) Screen ........................ 186

VGA Clock Settings Tab .................................187

LCD Clock Settings Screen .............................188

LCD EXTERNAL DEVICES Settings Screen...... 189

Digital I/O Settings ..................................... 190

LCD Digital I/O Screens .................................. 190

Option Card Settings ..................................191

Front Panel SHUTDOWN Key ..................... 191

Part IX — Connections and Ports

Chapter 23 – Inputs and Outputs

Top Panel .................................................... 192

OUTPUTS .........................................................192

Part X — Specifications, etc.

Appendix A – PS/2 Keyboard & Mouse

Shortcuts

In General.................................................... 195

Track Management .................................... 195

Piano Roll Management............................. 195

TrackScale View (the grey zooming bar).. 195

Ruler ............................................................ 196

Transport..................................................... 196

Appendix B – Control Surface Shortcuts

SHIFT Key .................................................... 197

CANCEL Key ................................................ 197

Transport Key Combinations..................... 197

Channel Select Key Special Functionality . 198 DIM, MONO & TALKBACK Special

Functionality ............................................ 198

INPUTS............................................................. 192

Rear Panel.................................................... 193

Appendix C – Block Diagrams (i)

Block Diagram (ii)........................................200

Appendix D – Level diagram

Appendix E – Specifications

Physical specifications ................................ 202

Dimensional drawing..................................... 202

Audio specifications....................................203

I/O (analog)..................................................... 203

I/O (digital)...................................................... 204

Synchronization, etc. I/O ............................... 204

Other connections, etc...................................204

Performance ................................................205

Appendix F – MIDI Implementation Chart

TASCAM SX-1 Reference Manual 9

Part I–Manuals & Conventions

Chapter 1 – The Manuals

Manual Descriptions

There are two different manuals shipped with the SX-1: a Quick Start Guide and an Owner's Manual (this manual). If you are missing either of these man-

Owner's Manual

The Owner's Manual covers all of the SX-1's many features, controls, and parameters in detail. Its explanations assume that you have a certain knowledgebase about recording and MIDI. If you find yourself confused by the subjects and terms presented in this

Quick Start Guide

This guide covers all the basics on setting up your SX-1: unpacking, connecting speakers, listening to the demo, setting recording levels, and connecting MIDI. If you are not familiar with setting up record-

Manual Organization

The Owner's Manual is divided into sections called Parts, and each Part is divided into chapters. The Parts are designated by Roman numerals (I, II, III, IV, etc.) while the chapters are designated by Arabic numerals (1, 2, 3, 4, etc.). Each chapter contains relevant figures of the SX-1’s front panel, and screen shots of the LCD and VGA displays.

Each Part covers a specific portion of the SX-1 (for example, the Mixer or the MIDI Sequencer). The chapters address individual features (such as mixer automation or editing MIDI data). As such, learning about a specific section of the SX-1’s functionality is as simple as reading the appropriate Part.

There are ten Parts.. The following is a brief description of what you can expect to find in each Part.

I, “Manuals & Conventions” (page 10)

This introductory Part explains the organization and documentation conventions of the Owner's Manual. It also covers the SX-1's general operating conventions for all three control interfaces: the front panel, onboard LCD screen, and a connected VGA display.

II, “Monitoring Signals and Selecting Screens” (page 21)

monitor signals on the SX-1. The front panel meters and LED indicators are one way, and many of the

There are lots of ways to

uals, you should contact the authorized TASCAM dealer where you purchased your SX-1. The contents and purpose of each manual are described below.

manual, you should refer to an introductory handbook on engineering. This manual does not explain how to set up and begin using the SX-1; for that you should refer to the Quick Start Guide.

ing equipment (and even if you are) beginning with the Quick Start Guide is a good idea. For more detailed explanations on individual features and functions, refer to the Owner's Manual.

display screens also provide comprehensive metering. This Part covers the SX-1’s many meters and indicators and explains how to recall the different display screens.

III, “Locate, Transport, & Surround” (page

31) Understanding how to navigate through your

project quickly and efficiently is key to getting the most out of your SX-1. This Part explains the SX-1’s transport and locate controls as well as its recording conventions.

IV, “Mixer Controls” (page 45) The SX-1 has

a full-featured mixer with a host of powerful features. Routing for the mixer is available pre- and post- the mixer channels, the channels themselves have built-in EQ and dynamics, the buss and return architecture is extremely flexible, and practically every parameter can be automated and archived. This section explains the mixer’s structure and operations.

V, “Effects” (page 106) Each onboard effect has

is own unique set of parameters. This Part explains these parameters for all the currently available effect algorithms.

VI, “Audio tracks” (page 122) Everything

you need to know about working with and editing audio regions can be found in this Part. This includes

10 TASCAM SX-1 Reference Manual

Part I–Manuals & Conventions

an explanation of different editing features, how to use the audio editing tools, and selecting and displaying waveforms.

VII, “MIDI Sequencing” (page 133) The SX-

1’s onboard MIDI sequencer is as comprehensive as a dedicated software-based MIDI sequencer (like the type you might install on a desktop computer). This Part covers all of the MIDI sequencer’s features and addresses working with and editing MIDI note and continuous controller data.

VIII, “Data Entry, System & File Management” (page 166) Different applica-

tions require different system setups: sample rates, bit depths, synchronization, storage, and the like.

Documentation Conventions

The names for all of the SX-1's keys, knobs, and connections are printed in this manual exactly as their labels appear on the SX-1 itself. They are set apart from normal text with brackets. For example, the Play button is written has more than one function (for example, a main and shift function—the Shift function is explained in “Multi-Function Keys” on page 12), it is written as,

ENABLED/ ALL INPUT (the main function is listed

first and the shift function second).

The SX-1's face is organized into different areas for each of its various functions. These areas are labeled and their names also appear in this manual exactly as they are printed on the SX-1 (for example,

EDITING).

Areas of the SX-1 that are not labeled, but have a specific purpose, are written in conventional title form (such as, Faders).

PLAY. In the case where a key

This Part covers the SX-1’s system parameters as well as backing up and project management.

IX, “Connections and Ports” (page 192)

There are a variety of jacks and connectors located on the top and back of the SX-1. There are also several expansion ports on the unit's rear. This part of the manual explains the purpose behind each of these connections.

X, “Specifications, etc.” (page 195) All the

specifications you need to know about the SX-1 are found in this Part: reference diagrams, keyboard commands and shortcuts, and technical specs.

In order to differentiate LED labels from area and control labels, LED names are in angle brackets (for example, and menu names that appear on the LCD or the external VGA displays from their hardware counterparts, these names are in a lighter typeface (like, the key or the

All the manuals and guides for the SX-1 adhere to these documentation conventions. Diagrams and illustrations are presented whenever possible to augment the manual's text descriptions.

Windows is a trademark of Microsoft Corporation.

Mac and Macintosh are trademarks of Apple Computers.

Be is the trademark of Be Incorporated.

All other trademarks mentioned here are the property of their respective owners.

<DISK>). To distinguish software buttons

LOAD

EQ LIBRARY screen).

Tips

Important notes, that are in addition to general instructions and definitions, are set apart from the manual’s normal text titled TIP (see the example here). These important tips call your attention to special situations and offer helpful operating suggestions.

TIP

While reading the SX-1 Owner’s Manual, keep your eyes peeled for special operating tips and helpful suggestions like this.

TASCAM SX-1 Reference Manual 11

Part I–Manuals & Conventions

Chapter 2 – Operating Conventions

Front Panel

Multi-Function Keys

Some keys have multiple functions. A key’s primary function is accessed by simply pressing the key. Secondary functions are accessed by entering Shift mode. Press the

SHIFT key on the Numeric Keypad,

Data Entry

Only the Keypad is actually labeled DATA ENTRY. The Keypad is used for entering numbers and letters directly into a text field, and enabling the Shift func-

Keypad

The Keypad has four distinct uses, which change according to the LCD’s current display screen and selected text or number field. These are: cursor control (navigation), numeric, note value, and alphabet character entry. Four ancillary keys support these uses:

NUM LOCK, SHIFT, CANCEL, and ENTER.

Numeric Entry When the cursor is in a value field

(in the LCD screen only), the Keypad enters numbers.

Navigation Function For the LCD screen, the

Keypad’s navigation keys (the up/down and left/

and then press the multi-function key to reach its secondary function. Think of the shift key of a standard PS/2 keyboard—it serves a similar purpose.

tion (as described above), up/down and left/right cursor navigation, and entering MIDI step record note values.

right arrows) let you move the cursor between text fields, scroll through menus, and select objects.

SHIFT key just like the

Note Value Entry In the MIDI Step Record

mode, in both the LCD and VGA Step Record screens, the keys with notation marks let you quickly assign note values to your stepped MIDI notes.

Character Entry On the LCD screen, when the

cursor is in a text field, the Keypad enters letters (like a push-button telephone, where subsequent key presses cycle through the letters listed on the keys). After entering a letter, the cursor will, after a small delay, autoadvance to the next space.

12 TASCAM SX-1 Reference Manual

Ancillary Keys

Part I–Manuals & Conventions

NUM LOCK Use the NUM LOCK key to fix the

Keypad’s operation to only enter numbers.

SHIFT For front panel keys that have a Shift func-

tion, press the Shift key is also a part of a number of special multiple-key commands (see “PS/2 Keyboard & Mouse Shortcuts” on page 195).

TIP

An example of a handy multiple-key command is the ability to copy your main mix to the cue mix. By holding down

SHIFT

SHIFT key to enable this function. The

and pressing the

CUE

key (to the right of

Jog/Shuttle Wheel

The Jog/Shuttle Wheel is used for moving the trans- port back and forth.

Jog Dial Jogging is controlled by the inside dial of

the Jog/Shuttle control. Spin the dial clockwise to play audio and MIDI forward, and spin the dial counterclockwise to play audio and MIDI backwards. Playback speed is determined by how fast you spin the Jog Dial. (The Jog Dial is sometimes referred to as the Scrub Wheel, and similarly, jogging is sometimes called scrubbing.)

the Virtual Channel knobs) you can copy the Master L/R mix to the Cue layer. This move can save valuable time when you need to quickly create a mix for an overdubbing musician.

CANCEL Use the CANCEL key to terminate an

action. This key is also part of a number of multiplekey shortcuts. For example, holding down

CANCEL

and touching a fader or other control will set that control to default.

ENTER Use the ENTER key to complete an action.

Shuttle Wheel Shuttling is controlled by the out-

side ring of the Jog/Shuttle control. Turn the wheel to the right to shuttle audio and MIDI forwards in time, and turn the wheel to the left to shuttle audio and MIDI backwards. How far you push the wheel, left or right (backwards and forwards, respectively), determines the speed of playback. The wheel is spring-loaded, and upon release it pops back to center position and normal play speed.

Virtual Channel Pots

The knobs at the top of the channel strips (above the faders) are multi-function, infinitely rotating potentiometers (pots for short).

Depending on their currently selected mode (accessed by the keys), these controls serve as pan pots for all chan-

PAN/ VIRTUAL CHANNEL or CUE

nels, EQ, Aux sends and pan for a selected channel, or pan for the Cue Mix. The virtual pots are surrounded by a ring of LEDs, which indicate their current setting. For example, a pan pot that is hard left will have its far left LED illuminated, or an AUX send that is full open will have all of its LEDs lit.

TASCAM SX-1 Reference Manual 13

Part I–Manuals & Conventions

Fader Banks

It’s important to remember that the SX-1’s faders control more than just one group of levels. Besides the first 16 mixer channels, at default the faders also control: inputs 17-32, the cue mix, MIDI tracks, sends, returns, and busses. Different groups of faders,

LCD Display

VGA or LCD

You have a choice of using the LCD or an VGA display as your main screen. The LCD display always follows the selection keys in the

MODES

section. To have an external VGA follow

LCD Navigation

MAIN DISPLAY

called fader banks, are accessed by the keys in the

FADER BANKS section on the SX-1’s slanted front

panel, and the cue mix bank is reached via the key to the right of the virtual channel strip.

these keys, press the

LCD ACCESS section (on the SX-1's slanted front

panel). The

<EXTERNAL> LED should light.

MAIN DISPLAY key above the

CUE

The LCD display is surrounded by several knobs and buttons. The function of these controls change according to the display on the LCD. We refer to these controls as “soft” knobs and keys because their functions are directly related to the SX-1's software.

14 TASCAM SX-1 Reference Manual

The soft knobs and soft keys line up with onscreen knobs and keys to indicate their current function. Each of the LCD’s screens has a different set of these virtual controls. Some keys are single function while others are of a pop-up menu style. Most of the soft

Part I–Manuals & Conventions

knobs, upon turning, display a selection of choices in a pop-up style menu.

To scroll up/down and left/right in an LCD window, use the up/down and left/right arrow keys of the

Common Soft Knobs & Keys

There are several soft knobs and keys which are common to many of the LCD screens. How these controls operate are always identical, even if the parameters they adjust, or select, are different.

Soft Keys

ACTIVE MENU

Arrow Icon

NAME DELETE OK or ACCEPT COMPARE CANCEL CLEAR SELECT CURSOR --> <-- CURSOR BACK SPACE Notes SET TO DEFAULT

This virtual key toggles the LCD screen’s soft key menu bar on and off in order to expand the visible screen area (this is not necessary for all screens).

When you see an arrow icon on a virtual key, pressing its associated soft key will open a menu.

Opens a dialog for naming the currently selected field. Removes last entry. Enters current field’s new value. Press this key to compare your current settings with your last saved settings. Escapes current action. Clears entire field. Opens parameter selection menu. Moves cursor right. Moves cursor left. Moves cursor back one space. A field to write text in that is saved with the patch. This sets the associated controller’s value back to its factory default value.

ACTIVE MENU

Numeric Keypad. And to adjust the viewing angle and contrast of the LCD, use the small knob to the top right of the LCD.

TIP

HOT TIP! —

Explaining the common virtual knobs and keys here means that not every soft key and knob is explained for every LCD menu. If you are looking at an LCD menu and don’t see all the items explained next to the manual’s illustration, the missing controls are likely explained here.

is always tied to the

soft key (the very bottom soft key).

Soft Knobs

CURSOR EDIT NAME CHANGE CHAR SELECT (PARM or

OP) DEST IMPORT

Moves the cursor. Opens change name menu. Scrolls through characters. Opens parameter selection menu.

Opens destination assign menu (for example, where the track will return). Opens an import dialog from which you can bring settings from other projects into your current project.

VGA Display

Screen Navigation

Getting around on a connected VGA Display is just like using a regular computer because the same mouse and PS/2 keyboard rules apply. For example, use the mouse to click on a field and open a pulldown menu, or enter names and values in text fields with the PS/2 keyboard.

NOTE

Where Windows machines typically use the Control key, and Macintosh systems use the Comand key with other keys as keyboard shortcuts, the SX-1 uses the Alt key together with other keys for this purpose.

TASCAM SX-1 Reference Manual 15

Part I–Manuals & Conventions

A Main Menu Bar at the top of the VGA display allows access to all of the SX-1’s screens and many primary functions. Just like with a wholly computer based application, you can use the Main Menu Bar to change windows, select editing tools, save projects,

Tracks Display

and set preferences. But unlike a wholly software based computer device, the SX-1 also gives you real world hardware control of its software right from its front panel.

The SX-1 has many different VGA screens that you will use over the course of a project. However, the

Track screen (pictured here) is possibly the most com-

monly accessed screen. Here, you will find a number of essential elements for working with and managing your project. You can get a clear picture of all the tracks in your project and perform a variety of tasks

Mouse Conventions Pop-Up Menus Click on the arrow icon ( )

next to a control (this might be anything, from a text field to a button) to display pop-up menus.

TIP

If clicking normally on an arrow only selects the control, but doesn’t let you edit it, try right-clicking on it.

16 TASCAM SX-1 Reference Manual

including: creating audio and MIDI tracks, assigning takes, selecting regions for editing, arming and soloing mixer channels, and choosing editing and preference tabs.

TIP

To see the other nine main VGA screens, press ALT plus a number key from 0-9 on the connected PS/2 keyboard.

Resizing Windows The Tracks and tabs areas

can be resized by clicking and dragging on the three dots on the divider bars (as shown above). Click and drag horizontally to resize the Tracks area, and click and drag vertically to resize the tabs area.

Ta bs

Part I–Manuals & Conventions

To reach the various layered operations windows in different screens, click on their labeled “tabs” (just like flipping through folders in a file cabinet).

Main Menu Items

To open the main menu items on the menu bar, click once on an item.

Then drag the mouse downward over the pop-up menu to make your selection. The menu items’ respective commands are covered throughout this manual (for example, the

SX-1 commands, which are

Zoom & Scroll

Right click and drag over the gray horizontal bar above the timeline (in the screens, and respective to zoom in or out. Left click and drag the gray bar to scroll, horizontally (in time), through the project. And, left clicking to the left or right of the gray bar

TRACK and AUTOMATION

Waveform and Audio Track tabs)

Tabs without a label are unassigned.

system oriented, are addressed in “System Settings” on page 182, while the

Edit commands are covered in

the chapters on editing audio and MIDI regions— “Audio tracks” on page 122 and “MIDI Sequencing” on page 133).

moves the playhead back or forward, respectively, by one screen.

TIP

You can zoom in or out on the VGA screen by pressing Alt and the [ ] keys. Additional key commands and shortcuts are listed in Appendix 2.

Main Menu Bar Elements

Transport & Record Keys

These keys mirror the SX-1’s hardware Transport and Record Keys.

MIDI Panic

Use this button or the hardware PAN IC key to clear stuck MIDI notes and other such MIDI log jams (it sends All Notes Off messages, and then Note Off messages on all

channels) as well as dimming the audio outputs by

Tool Select

Press this button to choose a cursor selection tool. There are four choices: Region, Event, Pencil, and Curve (the tools’ func-

They can be used in place of their hardware counterparts if desired.

20dB and stopping the transport. This is a latching button, and the front panel

PANIC indicator pulses

while the panic mode is active. Press either the soft

PANIC button or the hardware PANIC key to exit the

panic mode.

tions are explained in “Essential Tools” on page 122).

TASCAM SX-1 Reference Manual 17

Part I–Manuals & Conventions

TIP

You can use the PS/2 keyboard’s Escape key to choose the tool.

Grid Select

Use this button to toggle the “snap-to-grid” feature on and off. The grid is represented by vertical lines that intersect the tracks in the

Tracks screen (they also appear in other

related screens, such as the VGA

Waveform tab). When

Nudge & Grid Settings

The top field (designated by N) adjusts your nudge amount. Select an event (audio or MIDI) and use a connected PS/2 keyboard’s +/- keys to move the event forward or backward in time by the Nudge value.

Edit Length Grids

snap-to-grid is on, events (audio and MIDI) will always align to the nearest grid intersection when moved by the mouse. When the grid is off, events are not constrained to the grid lines.

The bottom field (designated by G) sets your “snapto” grid size (as described above). Both values can be either SMPTE, hours:minutes:seconds, bars:beats:ticks, feet:frames, or samples.

The left displays show a selection’s Edit In and Out points. The top right display shows the selection’s sync point, while the bottom right display shows the

Time Signature Selector

The top value represents the number of divisions in a bar (the beats per measure). Almost any value can be entered directly into this field from a connected PS/2 keyboard. The bottom value represents the type of note assigned to the bar divisions (the note that

Tempo & Click Management

These buttons are for adjusting the project’s tempo and click, and enabling or disabling MIDI echo and merge.

Use this button to toggle the current project’s Conductor track on and off. The Conductor track contains the project’s

selection’s length. Readouts for each display can be in SMPTE, hours:minutes:seconds, bars:beats:ticks, feet:frames, or samples.

equals one beat). This value is chosen from the pull down menu (click on the arrow). Note values range from a whole note (semibreve) to a 64th note (hemidemisemiquaver).

tempo map and can be viewed and edited (using the appropriate function—“Tempo Change” on page 164). When the button is depressed, the project’s tempo follows the Conductor track. When the button is up, tempo follows the Main Menu Bar’s

18 TASCAM SX-1 Reference Manual

Part I–Manuals & Conventions

tempo setting (the field to the left of the “-/+” keys, pictured to the left and described below).

This button turns the MIDI metronome on and off.

This button turns MIDI echo on and off.

This button turns MIDI merge on and off.

Project & Mix Menus

The top field displays the name of your current project. If you click the arrow in this field you can display the remaining record time (for the drive that the current Project is loaded on). The bottom field

Main Time Code Display

Use these buttons to adjust a project’s tempo when the Conductor track is not

enabled. A value can also be entered directly into the adjacent tempo field from the PS/2 keyboard.

TIP

To learn more about MIDI functionality, see Part VII.

shows the name of your current Mix (the SX-1 allows multiple mix files to be associated with a project). Mixes are managed from the VGA’s

Automation screen.

in the

Mix Tab

This Time Code display mirrors the SX-1’s main LED Time Code display on its slanted front panel. It can display time in SMPTE, hours:minutes:seconds, bars:beats:ticks, feet:frames, and samples.

NOTE

Changing this field changes all of the registers in both user interfaces - except the Nudge and Grid values. You can think of this control as a sort of “master display

type” if you wish. After changing the view type to another of the choices, you can always change any of the individual fields to display whatever you like.

This parameter can also be changed by holding the surface

SHIFT

key and pressing the on the slanted front panel - repeated pressings will scroll through the available four choices

MAIN DISPLAY

key

TASCAM SX-1 Reference Manual 19

Part I–Manuals & Conventions

Common buttons

There are several virtual keys (buttons) that are common to many of the VGA screens and tabs. How these controls operate are always identical, even if the parameters that they adjust, or select, are different.

Name field

NEW RECALL STORE DELETE DONE EDIT NAME Library Notes COMPARE IMPORT SET TO DEFAULT

Displays the name of the currently selected parameter or item. You can also change an item’s name by entering text directly into this field and pressing

Creates a new entry for the currently selected parameter or item. Restores from memory the currently selected (highlighted) parameter or item. Saves to memory the currently loaded parameter or item. Deletes the currently selected (highlighted) parameter or item. This key is found in all Edit Operations screens. Press the key to complete the edit operation. Enables you to change the name of the currently selected patch or preset. A field where the names of the Library presets appear. A text field where notes can be saved along with the preset. Press this key to compare your current settings with your last saved settings. Opens an import dialog from which you can bring settings from other projects into your current project. This sets the associated controller’s value back to its factory default value.

NOTE

Explaining the common VGA buttons here means that not every virtual key is explained for every VGA screen and tab. If you are looking at an VGA display and don’t see all the items explained next to the manual’s illustration, the missing controls are likely explained here.

ENTER

on the

Keypad

20 TASCAM SX-1 Reference Manual

Part II– Monitoring Signals and Selecting Screens

Chapter 3 – Monitoring Audio

Output Control

Monitor Section

This section houses controls for the Control Room and Studio monitor outputs (these connections are on the SX-1’s top panel).

CONTROL ROOM

This section provides controls for the Control Room monitor outputs.

SOURCE Select The SOURCE key allows you to

choose the source signal that you want to monitor through your Control Room speakers. Multiple presses of this key allow you to toggle through the following sources:

<STEREO> When the <STEREO> LED is illumi-

nated, the source monitored is the Master L/R output (post the Master Fader).

<CUE> When the <CUE> LED is on, the source

monitored is the Cue mix.

<AUX 1/2> When the <AUX 1 / 2> LED is on, the

source monitored is the Aux 1 and 2 sends.

<AUX 3/4> With the <AUX 3 / 4> LED illuminated,

the source monitored is the Aux 3 and 4 sends.

<AUX 5/6> When the <AUX 5 / 6> LED is on, the

source monitored is the Aux 5 and 6 sends.

For the Aux sends, pressing once will select the oddnumbered aux send of the pair (the light will flash in a single pattern) and pressing again will select the even-numbered aux send (the light will flash in a double pattern).

< 2 -TRACK/CD> When the <2 -TRACK/ CD> LED

is on, you are monitoring the signal coming into the

2TRIN stereo input (located on the unit’s top panel). <D-IN> With the <D- IN> LED illuminated, you are

monitoring the unit’s digital inputs (found on the unit’s rear).

Press once for pattern), and press twice for flash in a double pattern).

D-IN 1 (the light will flash in a single

D-IN 2 (the light will

TASCAM SX-1 Reference Manual 21

Part II–Monitoring Signals and Selecting Screens

TIP

When the Aux sends are linked for stereo operation, pressing channels as a stereo pair. If the Aux sends are not linked, pressing and then the even Aux channels of a pair.

SOURCE

accesses both the odd and even Aux

will first monitor the odd,

Monitor DIM Press the DIM key to momentarily

lower the output level of your Control Room Monitors by a set amount. The default is –12 dB, but this value can be as much as –50 db. The attenuation amount is adjusted from the LCD

SHIFT+SETTINGS/ PREFS). This is a “smart” key.

(

TIP

When monitoring at levels that make having a conversation difficult, use having to touch the master output levels.

DIM

to get a quick word in without

PREFERENCES screen

STUDIO Section

This section provides controls for the Studio monitor outputs (which can be used to feed a set of speakers in the tracking room) and the Talkback mic.

SOURCE Select The SOURCE key allows you to

choose the source signal that you want to monitor through your Studio speakers. Multiple presses of this key allow you to toggle through the following sources:

<STEREO> When the <STEREO> LED is illumi-

nated, the source monitored is the Master L/R output (post the Master Fader).

<CUE> When the <CUE> LED is on, the source

monitored is the Cue mix.

<AUX 1/2> When the <AUX 1 / 2> LED is on, the

source monitored is the Auxiliary 1 and 2 sends.

MONO Select Press MONO to hear the source

currently selected in mono (instead of stereo). The key is of a “smart” type.

Speaker Select The Speaker Select switch,

labeled between two different sets of speakers (for example, large and small control room monitors). The and SMALL speaker connections are located on the top panel of the SX-1.

LARGE/ SMALL, lets you quickly switch

LARGE

Monitor LEVEL The LEVEL knob controls the

volume of your control room monitors. You can preset the control’s starting level (if for instance, the initial output seems too loud) from the LCD

PREFERENCES screen (SHIFT+SETTINGS/ PREFS).

The default output is +4dBu.

<AUX 3/4> With the <AUX 3 / 4> LED illuminated,

the source monitored is the Auxiliary 3 and 4 sends.

<AUX 5/6> When the <AUX 5 / 6> LED is on, the

source monitored is the Auxiliary 5 and 6 sends.

For the Aux sends, pressing once will select the oddnumbered aux send of the pair (the light will flash slowly) and pressing again will select the even-numbered aux send (the light will flash quickly).

<2 -TRACK/CD> When the <2 -TRACK/ CD> LED is

on, you are monitoring the signal coming into the

2TRIN stereo input (located on the unit’s top panel). <D-IN> With the <D-IN> LED illuminated, you are

monitoring the unit’s digital inputs (found on the unit’s rear).

Press once for and press twice for quickly).

D-IN 1 (the light will flash slowly),

D-IN 2 (the light will flash

TALKBACK Select

The TALK BAC K key engages the Talkback mic located on the left side of the SX-1’s slanted front panel. Use the Talkback mic to communicate with musicians and other talent over the Studio outputs.

The

TALK BAC K key, together with the MONO and

DIM leys, is a “smart” key. Press and release these

keys briefly to latch them on and off. Press and hold

22 TASCAM SX-1 Reference Manual

them for longer before releasing to use them as nonlatching keys.

TIP

When the

TALBACK

SHIFT

key is held together with the

key, the

TALK BAC K

key acts as a slate key.

Talkback Level The TB LEVEL knob adjusts the

volume of the Talkback mic.

Part II–Monitoring Signals and Selecting Screens

Monitor Level

This LEVEL knob controls the volume of your Studio monitors.

SOLO Section

This section contains controls for the mixer’s Solo function. Pressing the Fader engages the solo mode for the Channel Strip’s

MUTE keys.

SOLO key on the Master

MODE Select The MODE key lets you choose

how the SX-1's solo function will operate. There are three options:

<PRE-FADER> When the <PRE- FADER> LED is

illuminated, the Pre-Fader solo feature is engaged. This lets you solo a source at its input, before it reaches a channel’s gain stages. The pre-fader output is sent out of the Solo buss.

<IN-PLACE> When the <IN-PLACE> LED is on, the

In-Place solo feature is engaged. This feature allows a soloed signal to retain the same settings as heard in the main mix (this is accomplished by muting everything going to the Master L/R buss except the soloed channel).

<USER-DEFINED> In operating system (OS) Ver-

sion 1.0. when the the solo mode monitors signal directly after the fader (After Fader Level). Signal is fed to the Solo buss without effects. In future OS revisions, the UserDefined feature will be expanded to include a number of enhancements.

<USER-DEFINED> LED is on,

HEADPHONES

This section contains level and source controls for the two separate headphone outputs found on the SX1’s top panel.

PHONES 1 The CTRL ROOM/ STUDIO key selects

whether Headphone 1 receives the Control Room or Studio mix.

Solo LEVEL This [level] knob controls the level of

the Solo buss, and hence the volume of the Solo output in PFL and AFL modes (pre-fader and after-fader levels).

LEVEL 1 This LEVEL knob controls the volume for

Headphone 1.

PHONES 2 This CTRL ROOM/ STUDIO key

selects whether Headphone 2 receives the Control Room or Studio mix.

LEVEL 2 This LEVEL knob controls the volume for

Headphone 2.

TASCAM SX-1 Reference Manual 23

Part II–Monitoring Signals and Selecting Screens

TRANSPORT SOLO

The keys in this section provide a way to globally solo individual components (like the HDR or the Sequencer) of your studio with a single button press.

HDR Press HDR to hear just the hard disc recorder.

All other audio inputs to the console will be muted.

SEQ Press SEQ to hear just the MIDI sequencer.

The HDR tracks will be muted.

EXTERNAL Press EXTERNAL to hear an external

device that is slaved and has its audio outputs connected to the SX-1.

24 TASCAM SX-1 Reference Manual

Chapter 4 – Metering & Indicators

Reading LED Meters

Part II–Monitoring Signals and Selecting Screens

Master Meter Section

This section houses the main Time Code display, master L/R LED meters, and a variety of indicator LEDs illustrating the SX-1’s current state.

LED Time Code Display The Time Code dis-

play shows either hours:minutes:seconds:frames or bars:beats:ticks, feet:frames and samples.

Changing the Time Code Display’s readout can be done from the VGA's or by holding the surface

MAIN DISPLAY button on the slanted front panel.

Main Menu Bar Time Code Display,

SHIFT key and pressing the

AUTO MODE These LED indicators reflect the

SX-1’s current automation status.

<ALL SAFE> Indicates that automation will not be

recorded.

<INIT EDIT> Indicates that the automation system is

in Init Edit mode.

SYNC STATUS These LED indicators reflect the

SX-1’s current synchronization state.

<LTC CHASE> Indicates that the SX-1 is chasing

incoming Longitudinal Time Code (LTC).

<MTC CHASE> Shows that the SX-1 is chasing

incoming MIDI Time Code (MTC).

<LOCKED> Indicates that the SX-1 is locked to

incoming time code.

CLOCK These LED indicators reflect the SX-1’s

current clock status.

<INTERNAL> Indicates that the SX-1’s internal

clock is the master clock source.

<WORD> Shows that incoming Word Clock is the

master clock source.

<VIDEO> Shows that incoming video sync is the

master clock source.

TASCAM SX-1 Reference Manual 25

Part II–Monitoring Signals and Selecting Screens

<DIGITAL IN> Indicates that the digital input con-

nected to one of the rear digital input ports is the master clock source.

<OPTION SLOT> Indicates that a device connected

to an optional card installed in one of the Option Slots is the master clock source.

<ADAT OPTICAL> Shows that incoming ADAT

Optical (on the rear panel) is the master clock source.

SAMPLE RATE These LED indicators reflect the

SX-1’s current sample rate.

<44.1KHZ> Indicates that the current sample rate is

44.1 kHz.

<48KHZ> Indicates that the current sample rate is

48 kHz.

<2X> Shows that the current sample rate is one of the

two high sample rate settings (88.1 kHz or 96 kHz). For example, at 88.2 kHz, both the 44.1kHz and 2X indicators will light. High sampling rates will be

available in Version 2.

HDR RECORD These LED indicators reflect the

Hard Disk Recorder’s resolution, input and record monitoring states.

<24 -BIT> Indicates that the SX-1 is set to record at

24-bit resolution.

<ALL INPUT> Shows that the All Input monitor

mode is selected.

<AUTO MONITOR> Shows that the Auto Monitor

mode is selected.

ACTIVITY These LED indicators display hard disk

and MIDI activity.

<DISK> Indicates that the hard drive is accessing. <MIDI> Indicates the existence of incoming or outgo-

ing MIDI data. The actual operation depends on the MIDI LED setting on the LCD

Preferences page.

Master Stereo Meter The Master Stereo Meter

provides a visual cue of your master output buss. It is a 30-segment LED that goes from –60 to 0 dB and features peak LED indicators to show digital “overs.”

TIP

To see discrete meters for each mixer channel, go to the

Overview

DISPLAY MODES

screen by pressing

section.

OVERVIEW

in the

MAIN

26 TASCAM SX-1 Reference Manual

Part II–Monitoring Signals and Selecting Screens

Chapter 5 – Selecting Screens

Screen Controls

You have a choice of using the onboard LCD or a connected VGA display as your main screen.

Main Display Key

The MAIN DISPLAY key selects between the SX-1’s onboard LCD screen or an external VGA monitor as your main display. The LCD always follows the selection keys in the

MAIN DISPLAY MODES sec-

tion.

To have an external VGA follow these keys, press

MAIN DISPLAY and make the associated <EXTERNAL> LED light. The LED indicator set-

tings are as follows:

<INTERNAL> When the <INTERNAL> LED is illu-

minated, the screens recalled by the keys in the

DISPLAY MODES

section appear on the LCD . If an

MAIN

VGA screen is connected, its display will not follow

MAIN DISPLAY MODE keys.

the

Main Display Mode Section

<EXTERNAL> When the <EXTERNAL> LED is on,

the screens recalled by the

MAIN DISPLAY MODES

keys appear on both the LCD and the external VGA display at the same time.

TIP

VGA screens can also be changed, independently of the LCD, by pressing ALT and a number key on a connected PS/2 keyboard.

This option is available regardless of the

DISPLAY

The LCD also has its own set of dedicated controls in the

LCD ACCESS

key’s setting.

section.

MAIN

The controls in this section recall different screens. These screens appear on both the LCD and a connected VGA display (when the is set to

EXTERNAL).

MAIN DISPLAY key

TRACK The TRACK key recalls the TRACK screen,

where tracks are created and edited.

MIXER The MIXER key recalls the MIXER screen,

which shows a full console view on the VGA, along with a channel-at-once view on the LCD.

CHANNEL The CHANNEL key recalls the MIXER

CHANNEL

for a selected channel.

screen, which shows all of the parameters

TASCAM SX-1 Reference Manual 27

Part II–Monitoring Signals and Selecting Screens

OVERVIEW The OVERVIEW key recalls the

OVERVIEW screen, which can be used as a graphic

meter bridge.

AUTOMATION/MIX The AUTOMATION/ MIX

key recalls the

SHIFT+AUTOMATION/ MIX recalls the MIX screen.

AUTOMATION screen, and pressing

MASTER/BURN The MASTER/ BURN key recalls

the

MASTER screen where backup CD-Rs can be cre-

ated and managed.

EFFECTS The EFFECTS key recalls the EFFECTS

screen, where plug-ins are assigned to the SX-1’s four effect quadrants.

ROUTING The ROUTING key recalls the ROUTING

screen.

View Menu

The VGA display’s menu bar also provides a View menu, which mirrors the hardware keys of the

DISPLAY MODE

section. Zoom commands are also available if you prefer an alternative to the click-anddrag zoom method.

MAIN

SETTINGS/PREFS The SETTINGS/ PREFS key

recalls the trols for clock reference, and pressing

SETTINGS/ PREFS recalls the PREFERENCES screen

where a number of other settings can be stored (such as meter ballistics).

SETTINGS screen which holds all of the con-

SHIFT +

PROJECT/BACKUP The PROJECT/ BACKUP

key recalls the

PROJECT/ BACKUP recalls the BACKUP screen.

TIP

The VGA screen can also be switched by pressing ALT and a number key on the PS/2 keyboard. This option is available regardless of the setting.

PROJECT screen, and pressing SHIFT +

MAIN DISPLAY

key’s

Screen Recall Commands Each command

recalls its associated screen for the VGA. Explanations of these screens are found in the relevant chapters (such as, the chapter that addresses automation, Chapter 12).

Automation screen is found in the

Zoom In Magnifies (zooms in) data horizontally,

relative to time, on the screens, and “

Waveform” and Auto Track tab views.

TRACK and AUTOMATION

Zoom Out Expands (zooms out) data horizontally,

relative to time, on the screens, and

TIP

Another way of zooming in and out is the ALT + [ ] PS/2 Keyboard command. Waveform height can also be changed with SHIFT+ALT+[ ].

Waveform and Auto Track tab views.

TRACK and AUTOMATION

Zoom All Zooms all the way out to show the entire

project in the

Waveform and Auto Track tab views.

TRACK and AUTOMATION screens, and

Master Channel Recalls the Master stereo output

CHANNEL screen. This command is identical to press-

ing

CHANNEL from the MAIN DISPLAY MODE sec-

tion and then selecting the Master fader channel (by pressing its

TIP

Each command’s associated PS/2 keyboard shortcut is listed in the menu (right after the command’s title).

SEL key).

28 TASCAM SX-1 Reference Manual

LCD ACCESS Section

Part II–Monitoring Signals and Selecting Screens

The controls in this section recall screens for the SX1’s LCD display. Many of these screens reflect the tabs of the VGA screens (for example, the

Track

screen’s tabs).

DELAY/TRIM The DELAY/ TRIM key recalls the

Delay/Trim screen, which houses individual channel

delay and level trim controls.

GROUPS/LINKS The GROUPS/LINKS key recalls

the

Groups/Links screen, where fader groups and linked

parameters and channels are managed.

BUSS ASSIGNMENT The BUSS ASSIGNMENT

key recalls the all buss routing for the console.

Buss Assignment screen, which handles

TIME/TEMPO The TIME/ TEMPO key recalls the

Time/Tempo screen, where a project’s Tempo and met-

ronome settings may be modified.

LCD Screen

WAVEFORM The WAVEFORM key recalls the

Waveform screen, where a selected channel’s sample-

accurate waveforms can be viewed and edited on the LCD.

MIDI TRACK The MIDI TRACK key recalls the

MIDI Track screen which contains a Piano Roll display.

EVENT LISTS The EVENT LISTS key recalls the

Event Lists screen where individual events may be

viewed and edited.

TRANSPORT The TRANSPORT key recalls the

Transport screen where external devices are controlled,

locate points are managed , and parameters like frame rate are set on the LCD.

The onboard LCD provides access to all the necessary operating screens. In situations where an external VGA display is not available, the SX-1’s

software components can be reached directly through the LCD. The LCD can also work in tandem with the VGA to provide a second display.

TASCAM SX-1 Reference Manual 29

Part II–Monitoring Signals and Selecting Screens

LCD Contrast This knob adjusts the viewing

angle and contrast of the LCD screen.

Soft Keys The functions of these keys change

according to the current LCD screen.

MENU The MENU soft key is dedicated to turning

the soft keys’

ACTIVE MENU on and off.

Soft Knobs The functions of these knobs change

according to the current LCD screen.

30 TASCAM SX-1 Reference Manual

+ 183 hidden pages

tascam SX-1 User Guide

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Part I–Manuals & Conventions

Chapter 1 – The Manuals

Manual Descriptions

Owner's Manual

Quick Start Guide

Manual Organization

Documentation Conventions

Tips

Chapter 2 – Operating Conventions

Front Panel

Multi-Function Keys

Data Entry

Keypad

Ancillary Keys

Jog/Shuttle Wheel

Virtual Channel Pots

Fader Banks

LCD Display

VGA or LCD

LCD Navigation

Common Soft Knobs & Keys

Soft Keys

Soft Knobs

VGA Display

Screen Navigation

Tracks Display

Ta bs

Main Menu Items

Zoom & Scroll

Main Menu Bar Elements

Transport & Record Keys

MIDI Panic

Tool Select

Grid Select

Nudge & Grid Settings

Edit Length Grids

Time Signature Selector

Tempo & Click Management

Project & Mix Menus

Main Time Code Display

Common buttons

Part II– Monitoring Signals and Selecting Screens

Chapter 3 – Monitoring Audio

Output Control

Monitor Section

CONTROL ROOM

STUDIO Section

TALKBACK Select

Monitor Level

SOLO Section

HEADPHONES

TRANSPORT SOLO

Chapter 4 – Metering & Indicators

Reading LED Meters

Master Meter Section

Chapter 5 – Selecting Screens

Screen Controls

Main Display Key

Main Display Mode Section

View Menu

LCD ACCESS Section

LCD Screen