Teac X-48MKII Quick Start

X-48MK"

48 Track Digital Audio Workstation

OWNER'S MANUAL

D01152220A

2 TASCAM X-48MKII

IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

For European Customers

WARNING

This is a Class A product. In a domestic environment, this product may cause radio interference in which case the

CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK). NO USERSERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.

user may be required to take adequate measures.

CE Marking Information

a) Applicable electromagnetic environment: E4

b) Peak inrush current: 20 A

The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol, within equilateral triangle, is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within the product’s enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.

The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to a lert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the appliance.

WARNING: TO PREVENT FIRE OR SHOCK

HAZARD, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS

APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.

For U.S.A.

TO THE USER

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A di git al device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide re a s o n a b l e prote ction aga ins t h armful in ter f erence when the eq u ipment is op era ted in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful inter f erence to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful inter ference in which case the user will be required to correct the inter ference at his own expense.

CAUTION

Chang e s or mod i f ic atio n s to th is eq u i pme n t no t ex pr es sl y ap p ro ve d by T EA C CO R PO RAT ION fo r compliance could void the user's authority to operate this equipment.

Disposal of electrical and electronic equipment

(a) All electrical and electronic equipment should be

disposed of separately from the municipal waste stream via collection facilities designated by the government or local authorities.

(b) By disposing of electrical and electronic equipment

correctly, you will help save valuable resources and prevent any potential negative effects on human health and the environment.

equipment can have serious effects on the environment and human health because of the presence of hazardous substances in the equipment.

(d) The Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE)

symbol, which shows a wheeled bin that has been crossed out, indicates that electrical and electronic equipment must be collected and disposed of separately from household waste.

(e) Return and collection systems are available to end

users. For more detailed information about the disposal of old electrical and electronic equipment, please contact your city office, waste disposal service or the shop where you purchased the equipment.

This appliance has a serial number located on the rear panel. Please record the model number and serial number and retain them for your records.

Model number ______________________________

Serial number ______________________________

TASCAM X-48MKII 3

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

1 Read these instructions.

2 Keep these instructions.

3 Heed all warnings.

4 Follow all instructions.

5 Do not use this apparatus near water.

6 Clean only with dry cloth.

7 Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in

accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

8 Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators,

heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including ampliers) that produce heat.

9 Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or

grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not t into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.

10 Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched

particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.

11 Only use attachments/accessories specified by the

manufacturer.

Do not expose this apparatus to drips or splashes.

• Do not place any objects filled with liquids, such as

• vases, on the apparatus.

Do not install this apparatus in a confined space such

• as a book case or similar unit.

The apparatus draws nominal non-operating power

• from the AC outlet with its POWER or STANDBY/ON

switch not in the ON position.

The apparatus should be located close enough to the

• AC outlet so that you can easily grasp the power cord

plug at any time.

The mains plug is used as the disconnect device, the

• disconnect device shall remain readily operable.

Products with Class I construction are equipped with a

• power supply cord that has a grounding plug. The cord

of such a product must be plugged into an AC outlet that has a protective grounding connection.

If the product uses batteries (including a battery pack

• or installed batteries), they should not be exposed to

sunshine, fire or excessive heat.

CAUTION for products that use replaceable lithium

• batteries: there is danger of explosion if a battery is

replaced with an incorrect type of battery. Replace only with the same or equivalent type.

Caution should be taken when using earphones or

• headphones with the product because excessive sound

pressure (volume) from earphones or headphones can cause hearing loss.

12 Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table

specied by the manufacturer, or sold with the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/ apparatus combination to avoid injury from tip-over.

13 Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when

unused for long periods of time.

14 Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.

Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.

4 TASCAM X-48MKII

Safety Information

This product has been designed and manufactured according to FDA regulations "title 21, CFR, chapter 1, subchapter J, based on the Radiation Control for Health and Safety Act of 1968", and is classified as a class 1 laser product. There is no hazardous invisible laser radiation during operation because invisible laser radiation emitted inside of this product is completely confined in the protective housings.

The label required in this regulation is shown at 1.

CAUTION

DO NOT REMOVE THE PROTECTIVE HOUSING USING A

• SCREWDRIVER.

USE OF CONTROLS OR ADJUSTMENTS OR

• PERFORMANCE OF PROCEDURES OTHER THAN THOSE

SPECIFIED HEREIN MAY RESULT IN HAZARDOUS RADIATION EXPOSURE.

IF THIS PRODUCT DEVELOPS TROUBLE, CONTACT YOUR

• NEAREST QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL, AND DO

NOT USE THE PRODUCT IN ITS DAMAGED STATE.

CLASS 1M INVISIBLE LASER RADIATION WHEN OPEN

• AND INTERLOCKS DEFEATED. DO NOT VIEW DIRECTLY

WITH OPTICAL INSTRUMENTS.

Rack-mounting the Unit

Use the supplied rack-mounting kit to mount the unit in a standard 19-inch rack, as shown below.

Remove the feet of the unit before mounting.

Optical pickup

Type: OWY 8/35, OWY 8/36, OWY8/44, OWY8/45 Manufacturer: Pioneer CORP. Laser output (CD): Less than 1.3mW (Play) and 104.7mW (Record) on the objective lens (DVD): Less than 1.08mW (Play) and 102mW (Record) on the objective lens Wavelength: 777-787 nm (CD) 656-663 nm (DVD)

For China

Leave 2U of space above the unit for ventilation.

• Allow at least 10 cm (4 in) at the rear of the unit for

• ventilation.

TASCAM X-48MKII 5

Contents

1 – Introduction ..............................................7

Features .................................................................................. 7

Unpacking .............................................................................7

Manual Conventions ..........................................................8

Required Equipment ..........................................................8

Intellectual property rights ............................................. 8

Precautions for placement and use ..............................9

Connecting the power ......................................................9

Beware of condensation ...................................................9

Other precautions ............................................................... 9

Cleaning the unit .................................................................9

About optical discs ............................................................. 9

Handling of optical discs ........................................... 9

Supported optical media ........................................10

2 – Names and Functions of Parts ...............11

Front panel .......................................................................... 11

Rear panel ............................................................................ 12

3 – Setup ........................................................ 14

I/O Card Installation .........................................................14

Making Connections ........................................................14

TDIF ................................................................................. 14

S/PDIF .............................................................................14

AES/EBU .........................................................................14

AD AT ...............................................................................14

Digital Audio Clock .................................................... 14

Word Clock ...................................................................14

Analog Audio ...............................................................15

Synchronization and Control ........................................15

MIDI ................................................................................. 15

Time Code .....................................................................15

Footswitch ....................................................................15

Remote (Sony 9-Pin) ..................................................15

Video Reference (Tri Level Sync) ...........................15

Keyboard, Mouse & Monitor ..................................16

Network .........................................................................16

External Drives ............................................................16

Powering On / Standby ...................................................16

External Applications ......................................................16

MX-View .........................................................................16

TASCAM Mixer Companion ....................................16

Using the X-48MKII System Restore CD ....................17

4 – Configuration ..........................................18

Display Settings .................................................................18

Setting the date and time .............................................. 18

Navigating the LCD Interface........................................18

Sample Rates ......................................................................18

Digital Audio Clock ...........................................................19

I/O Settings ..........................................................................20

Analog I/O Operating Level...........................................20

Control Mode .....................................................................20

MIDI Device ID ....................................................................21

Sony 9-Pin ............................................................................21

Video Reference ................................................................21

Pull Up/Pull Down Sample Rates .................................21

Networking .........................................................................22

Checking Free Hard Drive Space .................................23

Drive Benchmarking Utility ...........................................23

Formatting a New Drive .................................................24

Factory Defaults ................................................................24

Store/Recall User Settings ..............................................24

Mixer Bypass ......................................................................25

Make a Default Project ....................................................25

5 – Recorder ..................................................26

Working With Projects ....................................................26

Creating a New Project ............................................26

Destructive versus Non-Destructive

Recording ......................................................................26

Opening a Project .....................................................26

Saving a Project ..........................................................27

Auto-Saving Projects ................................................27

Importing a Project ...................................................27

Exporting a Project ....................................................27

Copying a Project .......................................................28

Backing Up a Project to CD/DVD ..........................28

Deleting a Project ......................................................28

Load Last Project ........................................................29

Transport Operations ......................................................29

Local ................................................................................29

One-Button Record ..................................................29

TC Chase ........................................................................29

Rehearse .......................................................................30

Pre/Post Roll .................................................................30

Varispeed ......................................................................30

Recording as a timecode slave ..............................30

Recording and Playing Back ..........................................30

Input Monitoring ........................................................30

Record Enable ................................................ 31

Punch Crossfade Time ..............................................31

Undo/Redo ..................................................................31

Metering ........................................................................ 31

Using Markers ..............................................................32

Loop Playback .............................................................32

Loop Mode ...................................................................33

Auto Punch ...................................................................33

Loop Recording ..........................................................34

6 TASCAM X-48MKII

Contents

Audio pool ...................................................................34

Using the VGA Recorder Interface ..............................34

Meters.............................................................................34

Naming Tracks .............................................................34

Scrolling .........................................................................34

Timebar Format ..........................................................35

Clip Properties .............................................................35

Navigating the Timeline ..........................................35

Status Displays ............................................................35

Changing part colors on the track screen ........35

Synchronization .................................................................35

Requirements ..............................................................35

Sample Rate .................................................................36

Clock Source.................................................................36

BNC Clock In/BNC Clock Out ..................................37

BNC Word Clock Output Polarity ..........................37

Video Clock Frame-Edge Resolve .........................37

Frame Rate ....................................................................37

Control Mode ...............................................................38

Chase Freewheel ........................................................39

Chase Relock ................................................................39

Chase Relock Threshold ...........................................39

Timecode Offset .........................................................40

Chase Lock Deviation ...............................................40

Timecode Output Muting .......................................40

Advanced Recorder Operations ..................................40

Audio File Naming .....................................................40

Track Key Punch ..........................................................41

Recording time ..................................................................41

6 – Editing ......................................................42

Edit Tools ..............................................................................42

I-Beam Tool...................................................................42

Object Tool ...................................................................42

Smart Tool .....................................................................42

Magnify Tool ................................................................42

Selecting & Editing ...........................................................43

Selecting Clips .............................................................43

Selecting Time ............................................................43

In and Out Points ........................................................43

Clip Properties .............................................................43

Snap to Grid .................................................................43

Cut, Copy, Delete, Paste ...........................................43

Repeat Paste ................................................................43

Crop .................................................................................43

Insert Time ....................................................................44

Delete Time ..................................................................44

Split .................................................................................44

Play From Selection ...................................................44

History List ....................................................................44

Moving clip borders and adjusting

crossfades .....................................................................44

Fade-in, fade-out and crossfade curves.............45

Audio Processing...............................................................45

Pitch/Time Stretch .....................................................45

Consolidate ..................................................................45

7 – Mixer ........................................................46

Mixer Interface ...................................................................46

Mixer Introduction .....................................................46

Mixer Bypass ................................................................46

DSP View .......................................................................46

Mixer Tabs .....................................................................46

Automation ..................................................................47

Third-Party Plug Ins ...................................................47

Routing ..........................................................................47

Mixer Applications ............................................................47

Submixing .....................................................................47

Monitoring While Recording..................................47

Final Mix.........................................................................48

8 – Specifications ..........................................49

Media and formats ...........................................................49

Digital audio input/output ............................................49

Control input/output .......................................................49

General .................................................................................49

Options .................................................................................50

Dimensional drawings ....................................................50

9 – Appendix .................................................51

Functions controlled using a mouse and display ..51

Front panel function list ................................................54

Shortcuts ..............................................................................57

MIDI machine control (MMC) protocol .....................59

SONY P2 protocol ..............................................................59

TASCAM X-48MKII 7

1 – Introduction

Thank you very much for purchasing the TASCAM X-48MKII 48 Track Digital Audio Workstation.

Before connecting and using the unit, please take time to read this manual thoroughly to ensure you understand how to properly set up and connect the unit, as well as the operation of its many useful and convenient functions. After you have finished reading this manual, please keep it in a safe place for future reference.

You can also download the Owner's Manual from the TASCAM web site (http://tascam.com/).

Features

48-track hard disk recorder

• Transport keys and meters on the front panel can be

• used to control the multitrack recorder

1TB hard disk built-in

• Recording to external hard disks using high-speed

• eSATA connection

Built-in hard disk format: NTFS

• Audio file format: Broadcast Wave Format (BWF)

• Operation modes include standalone (unsynchronized),

• timecode synchronization and Theater Play

Edit tracks using the graphical user interface (GUI),

• including cut, copy, delete and undo/redo

Undo operations using the UNDO command (up to

• 1000 changes) and History List

Non-real-time time compression editing

• Support for 44.1, 48, 88.2 and 96 kHz sampling

• frequencies, including pull-up and pull-down

±6% pitch control playback

• Support for LTC and MTC timecode synchronization

• Support for video resolve synchronization to video

• frame-edge for timecode synchronization

Fail Safe Recording refreshes file headers every 5

• seconds

Digital mixer has 48 channels, 12 stereo subgroups, 6

• aux sends and 1 stereo master

Digital mixer can be used for mixing down during

• playback

Each channel and group includes dynamics

• (compressor), 4-band EQ and 6 AUX sends

Volume automation on all 48 channels by writing

• volume curves

Internal 32-bit floating-point processing

• GUI can be controlled by connecting a display,

• keyboard and mouse

6 TDIF digital input and output connectors support

• a total of 48 inputs and outputs at 96 kHz sampling

frequency

2 option card slots for 24 channels of audio input and

• output (analog, AES/EBU, ADAT)

1 coaxial stereo digital input and output (S/PDIF)

•

Clock source options: internal, WORD, S/PDIF, TDIF,

• SLOT 1, SLOT 2

Support for WORD SYNC IN/OUT/THRU, with WORD

• SYNC OUT supporting clocks at both high and normal

(base) sampling frequencies

VIDEO IN/THRU (video resolve, NTSC/PAL Black Burst

• and up to 1080p Tri-level HDTV Sync)

TRS balanced LTC input and output

• MIDI IN and MIDI OUT

• Machine control using RS-422 9-pin connection

• Audio data and EDL data import (OPEN TL) and export

• (OPEN TL/AAF) supported

Built-in DVD drive for backup

• Projects can be copied to external hard drives

• connected to the eSATA connector and USB 2.0 jacks

Data can be transmitted to a host computer via

• Ethernet (supports 1000BASE-TX)

Footswitch can trigger playback in Theater Play mode,

• and can be set to PLAY/STOP, PUNCH IN/OUT when in

Internal mode

4U rackmount size

• Theater mode playlist can be used to change playback

• order

Continuous recording for 48 hours

• Recording past 00:00 (24 hours)

• USB 2.0 jacks can be used to connect USB devices,

• including mice, keyboards, hard disks and flash

memory

Big Meter screen shows level meters for 48 tracks

•

Unpacking

The X-48MKII has been packed to ensure its safety during shipment. Inspect the unit for damage immediately upon unpacking and contact the shipper or retailer if damage is discovered or items appear to be missing. Please keep all boxes and packing material in case your X-48MKII needs to be shipped in the future. Inside the shipping carton, you will find the following:

X-48MKII Unit

• Power Cord specific to the country where you

• purchased it

A rack-mounting screw kit

• Two white plastic spacers and screws for installation

• of digital cards (IF-AE24/IF-AD24)

System Restore CD

• Documentation CD

• A warranty card

• This Owner’s Manual

•

8 TASCAM X-48MKII

1 – Introduction

Manual Conventions

The following typefaces will be used in this Owner’s Manual as indicated.

The names of keys and controls are given in the

• following typeface: ENTER.

Messages shown on the VGA monitor are given in the

• following typeface: Settings.

Messages shown in the alphanumeric portion of the

• LCD are given in the following typeface:

Midi D e vice ID.

The following icons will be used in this Owner’s Manual as indicated:

CAUTION

Instructions that should be followed to avoid injury, damage to the unit or other equipment, and loss of data.

TIP

This icon indicates a hint or tip on using the X-48MKII.

NOTE

This icon indicates explanation of actions in special situation and supplement.

This icon indicates instructions related to using the keyboard, mouse and monitor interface.

minimum resolution), a two-button PC mouse (PS/2 or USB) and a PC keyboard (PS/2 or USB).

Intellectual property rights

TASCAM is a trademark of TEAC Corporation, registered

• in the U.S. and other countries.

Microsoft, Windows, Windows Embedded and Windows

• Vista are either registered trademarks or trademarks

of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.

Apple, Macintosh, Mac OS and Mac OS X are trademarks

• of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.

The SANEWAVE logo is a trademark of Tudor Products

• Inc.

Other company names, product names and logos

• in this document are the trademarks or registered

trademarks of their respective owners.

Any data, including, but not limited to information, described herein are intended only as illustrations of such data and/or information and not as the specifications for such data and/or information. TEAC Corporation disclaims any warranty that any use of such data and/or information shall be free from infringement of any third party’s intellectual property rights or other proprietary rights, and further, assumes no liability of whatsoever nature in the event of any such infringement, or arising from or connected with or related to the use of such data and/or information.

This icon indicates instructions related to using the front panel of the X-48MKII.

Required Equipment

While the X-48MKII is a comprehensive piece of professional audio gear, there are other things you may need to take full advantage of its capabilities:

A console with a minimum of 8 outputs (at least 24

• is recommended) and enough inputs to handle your

expected track count.

An optional IF-AN24X analog I/O card if connecting the

• X-48MKII to an analog console. The IF-AN24X provides

the X-48MKII with 24 analog inputs and 24 analog outputs.

An optional digital I/O card (IF-AD24(X) or IF-AE24(X))

• if connecting your X-48MKII to a digital console so

equipped. These cards provide the X-48MKII with 24 digital inputs and 24 digital outputs per card.

Analog or digital cables appropriate to your console

• and choice of I/O format.

In order to use the X-48MKII’s editing, DSP and mixing

• capabilities, you will need a VGA monitor (1024 x 768

This product is designed to help you record and reproduce sound works to which you own the copyright, or where you have obtained permission from the copyright holder or the rightful licensor. Unless you own the copyright, or have obtained the appropriate permission from the copyright holder or the rightful licensor, your unauthorized recording, reproduction or distribution thereof may result in severe criminal penalties under copyright laws and international copyright treaties. If you are uncertain about your rights, contact your legal advisor. Under no circumstances will TEAC Corporation be responsible for the consequences of any illegal copying performed using the recorder.

TASCAM X-48MKII 9

1 – Introduction

Precautions for placement and use

The operating temperature should be between 5°C and

• 35°C (41°F and 95°F).

Do not install in the following types of places. Doing

• so could degrade the sound quality and/or cause

malfunctions.

Places with significant vibrations or that are

•

otherwise unstable

Near windows or other places exposed to direct

•

sunlight

Near heaters or other extremely hot places

•

Extremely cold places

•

Places with bad ventilation or high humidity

•

Very dusty locations

•

Make sure that the unit is mounted in a level position

• for correct operation.

Do not place any object on the unit for heat dissipation.

• Avoid installing this unit on top of any heat-generating

• electrical device such as a power amplifier.

Connecting the power

Insert the included power cord into the • AC IN connector completely.

Hold the power cord by the plug when connecting or

• disconnecting it.

Beware of condensation

If the unit is moved from a cold to a warm place, or used immediately after a cold room has been heated or otherwise exposed to a sudden temperature change, condensation could occur. Should this happen, leave the unit for one or two hours before turning the unit on.

Other precautions

Do not change the BIOS settings of this unit• . Changing them could cause the unit to not start up or otherwise malfunction. Please be aware that repairing problems caused by changing BIOS settings will require payment.

When using the included System Restore CD to reinstall

• the system, always disconnect all external hard disks

connected by eSATA or USB, including USB flash drives. Failure to do so will result in erasing all data on these external hard disks.

Before connecting or disconnecting anything to a

• connector, turn OFF the power of this unit and the

devices being connected (particularly, with VGA and

similar connections). Failure to do so could cause this unit or connected equipment to be damaged.

Cleaning the unit

To clean the unit, wipe it gently with a soft dry cloth. Do not wipe with chemical cleaning cloths, benzene, paint thinner, ethyl alcohol or other chemical agents to clean the unit as they could damage the surface.

The inside of the unit should be cleaned about once every five years. If the unit is not cleaned for a long time and dust is allowed to accumulate inside it, this could cause fire or malfunction. In particular, it is more effective to clean the inside of the unit before seasons with high humidity. Please contact a retailer that sells the unit or a TASCAM service center for cleaning and information about the cleaning fee.

About optical discs

Handling of optical discs

Always place the discs in the tray with their label facing

• upward. (Only single-sided discs can be used with this

unit.)

To remove a disc from its case, press down on the

• center of the disc holder, then lift the disc out, holding

it carefully by the edges.

Do not touch the data side (the unlabeled side).

• Fingerprints, oils and other substances can cause

errors.

To clean the data side of a disc, wipe gently with a soft

• dry cloth from the center towards the outside edge.

Dirt on discs can cause errors, so clean them and always store them in a clean state.

Do not use any record spray, anti-static solutions,

• benzene, paint thinner or other chemical agents to

clean discs as they could damage the delicate surface. It may cause discs to become unusable.

Always store discs in their cases to avoid dirt and dust

• accumulating on their surfaces.

Do not place the unit where it is exposed to direct

• sunlight, high temperatures or high humidity.

Remaining in such a place for a long time could result in warping and other damage.

Do not try to use 8 cm (single) discs, “business card”

• discs and other nonstandard discs for recording. This

unit cannot record to such discs. Use standard 12 cm discs for recording.

When labeling discs, always use a soft oil-based felt-

• tipped pen to write the information. Never use a ball-

point or hard-tipped pen, as this may cause damage to the recorded side.

10 TASCAM X-48MKII

1 – Introduction

Do not apply labels or other materials to discs. Do

• not use discs that have had tape, stickers or other

materials applied to their surface. Do not use discs that have sticky residue from stickers, etc. Such discs could become stuck in the unit or cause it to malfunction.

Do not use commercially available lens cleaners

• because the high-speed rotation of such discs could

break the lens protection mechanism.

Never use a commercially available disc stabilizer. Using

• stabilizers with this unit will damage the mechanism

and cause it to malfunction.

Do not use cracked discs.

• Only use circular compact discs. Avoid using non-

• circular promotional, etc. discs.

If you are in any doubt as to the care and handling of

• a disc, read the precautions supplied with the disc, or

contact the disc manufacturer directly.

Supported optical media

This unit supports the following types of media use.

DVD-R Reading/writing

DVD-RW Reading/writing/rewriting

DVD+R Reading/writing

DVD+RW Reading/writing

CD-R Reading/writing

CD-RW Reading/writing/rewriting

This unit does not support the following types of media use.

DVD+RW Rewriting

Dual layer media

CD-R and CD-RW discs sold for music

CD-RW disks that have been used as CD-DA

TASCAM X-48MKII 11

Front panel

2 – Names and Functions of Parts

1 Track record arming button

Puts that track into record ready unless “All Safe” is turned on. Record Ready status is reported by a flashing red light directly above that track’s record arming button.

2 Track meter

Displays signal level from –60 dBfs to –1 dBfs and overload.

3 Status Lights

These lights flash when the X-48MKII is accessing the hard drive, busy with a task, has MIDI input or encounters an error.

CAUTION

When the BUSY indicator is lit, do not try to save or conduct other important operations.

4 Sample Rate

These lights report the current sample rate. If the X-48MKII is set to 96 kHz, the 48k and 2X lights will be lit. If it isn’t set to one of these standard rates (i.e. 47952 Hz/48k pulldown), the NON STD light will turn on.

5 Timecode Rate indicator

Displays the current frame rate.

6 STANDBY/ON button/indicator

Turns the unit on and standby. A system prompt will confirm shutdown. Holding the button down for several seconds will shut the unit off without a confirmation.

7 System Lights

These indicators light when sample locked to an external source (SAMPLE LOCK), when in destructive

recording mode (DEST REC) and when using varispeed (VARISPEED).

8 Display

This shows a variety of information.

9 Optical drive

The internal DVD optical drive for backup, import and export of files.

0 Transport buttons

See the Recorder chapter if you’re unsure how to use these.

q Enter button

Confirms menu selections. The Exit button is directly below it to cancel a menu option.

w Change button

Use this button to change a menu item in the Project, Sync, etc. menus.

e CLEAR/HOME button

When in menu mode, press this to return to the Home Screen display. Use this button also to clear a set value.

r Menu buttons

These access menu groups like Project, Sync, Preferences, etc. You can also change the input status, unmount a disk and more.

t 5/b buttons

Use these to scroll through menus and change their settings.

12 TASCA M X-48MKII

2 – Names and Functions of Parts

Rear panel

y TDIF Inputs and Outputs

Each of these jacks transmits 8 channels of TDIF-format digital audio input and output at up to 96 kHz/24-bit.

NOTE

To get all 8 channels of audio input and output at 96 kHz, the equipment connected to the X-48MKII must have the latest TDIF capabilities, such as TASCAM’s DM-3200 and DM-4800 digital mixers.

u Option card slot 1

This slot adds an additional I/O format for channels 1-24. It’s compatible with interface cards such as the IF-AN24X analog, IF-AD24 ADAT optical and IF-AE24 AES/EBU cards (sold separately).

i Option card slot 2

Adds an additional I/O format for channels 25-48. Cards 1 and 2 do not need to be the same, you can mix and match Analog and AES for example.

o MIDI Input and Output

Used to generate and receive MIDI Timecode. Also used to receive MIDI Machine Control commands.

p Timecode Input and Output

Generates and receives SMPTE LTC timecode through balanced 1/4” jacks.

a Footswitch jack

Compatible with a momentary footswitch like the TASCAM RC-30P for punch in/punch out and so on.

NOTE

To operate correctly, a footswitch must be connected before the X-48MKII is powered on.

s Remote

Compatible with RS-422 / Sony 9-pin edit controllers for machine control

d Video clock in/thru

Use these BNC connectors to input black burst and trilevel sync signals and for thru output.

f Mouse/Keyboard

PS/2-compatible mouse and keyboard inputs. You can also use a USB mouse and keyboard.

g Option

Not used.

hOption

Not used.

j VGA output

Your monitor should be capable displaying a resolution of at least 1024x768 pixels at a refresh rate of at least 60 Hz. The maximum resolution of the X-48MKII’s display output is 2048x1536 pixels.

k Word Sync In/Out/Thru

Compatible with BNC word clock generators.

l USB

Four USB 2.0 jacks for connecting a keyboard, mouse, flash drive or hard drive.

; Ethernet

100/1000 (Gigabit compatible) ethernet jack. See the section on Networking for more information.

z S/PDIF

Stereo coaxial digital input and output.

xOption

Not used.

c eSATA

eS ATA connector for connecting external hard drives

TASCAM X-48MKII 13

v Cooling fan

Make sure that this fan is not blocked off in a rack to prevent overheating the system.

b AC-IN jack

Connect the included power cord here.

2 – Names and Functions of Parts

14 TASCAM X-48MKII

DigitalIn

DigitalOut

1425

3 – Setup

I/O Card Installation

I/O cards of different types may be installed in the X-48MKII simultaneously. For example, an X-48MKII may have one analog card and one digital card installed, with independent I/O routing. Each X-48MKII option card provides 24 channels of input and output.

CAUTION

To install an I/O card, please contact the retailer where you bought the unit or TASCAM support.

Making Connections

You may not use all the connections provided on the rear of the X-48MKII, but they are there if you need them. Just skip over the sections below that don’t apply to your setup. For further information on routing to and from these connectors, please refer to Section ‘I/O Settings’ (page 20).

CAUTION

Before connecting or disconnecting anything to a connector, turn OFF the power of this unit and the devices being connected (particularly, with VGA and similar connections). Failure to do so could cause this unit or connected equipment to be damaged.

TDIF

The X-48MKII comes standard with six DB25 connectors, each one capable of carrying eight channels of I/O at normal sample rates (44.1k, 48k) or double speed sample rates (88.2k, 96k).

NOTE

Eight channels of double speed sample rate I/O on a single TDIF connection is a new development for TASCAM recorders and mixers. Please ensure that the equipment you are connecting the X-48MKII to will support this by contacting the manufacturer of that equipment.

CAUTION

Use only cables that are specified by the manufacturer as “TDIF” cables. Using incorrect cables can damage your equipment.

S/PDIF

The X-48MKII comes standard with two RCA jacks for S/PDIF I/O at both normal and double speed sample rates.

CAUTION

To ensure clean data transmission, use only cables specified by the manufacturer as “S/PDIF” cables.

AES/EBU

When installed into an X-48MKII Slot, an AES/EBU digital I/O card (TASCAM IF-AE24X) will provide 24 channels of I/O at normal sample rates (44.1k, 48k) or double speed sample rates (88.2k, 96k).

The AES/EBU DB-25 pinout is pictured :

CAUTION

Use only DB25 cables specified by the manufacturer as “AES/EBU” cables. Many cables look the same on the outside.

ADAT

When installed into an X-48MKII slot, an ADAT digital I/O card will provide 24 channels of I/O at normal sample rates (44.1k, 48k).

Digital Audio Clock

Any time multiple digital audio devices are connected together, or multiple digital audio connections are used simultaneously on a single device, all the digital audio clock rates of the connected devices must be locked together. If this is not done, or if it is done incorrectly, clicks, distortion, or muted audio may result. The X-48MKII may act as the master clock to other devices in a system, or it can lock its clock to an external device.

This section will only deal with the physical connections to achieve clock lock. For system configuration, please refer to ‘Digital Audio Clock’ (page 19). Note that all digital audio clock related connections may be connected simultaneously, with the needed one selected in the user interface.

If the X-48MKII is digitally connected to only one other device, the clocks may be locked via that connection, requiring no other connection be made.

Word Clock

If the X-48MKII is digitally connected within a system of more than two digital devices, it is recommended to use Word Clock from one master source, distributed to all devices. The X-48MKII’s rear panel BNC Word Clock connectors have the following uses:

IN This connector receives word clock from

another device. When used, the X-48MKII should be congured to Lock to Word Clock.

OUT This connector transmits word clock to other

devices. When used, the X-48MKII should be congured to Internal Clock.

TASCAM X-48MKII 15

1425

3 – Setup

THRU This connector passes the Word Clock signal

present at the Word Clock IN through without adding any delay. This allows additional devices to be locked in a daisy-chain fashion in congurations where there is no way to directly distribute clock from a single source.

Analog Audio

The IF-AN24X provides 24 channels of balanced analog inputs and 24 channels of balanced analog outputs. The X-48MKII can be configured to one of five possible operating reference levels by applying the appropriate software settings. Please refer to ‘Analog I/O Operating Level’ (page 20) for details.

The analog DB-25 pinout is pictured below:

CAUTION

Use only DB25 cables specified by the manufacturer as “Analog” cables. Many cables look the same on the outside.

Synchronization and Control

This section will deal with the physical connections needed in various synchronized applications. For details about the appropriate software settings, please refer to the ‘Synchronization’ section (page 35).

Time Code

There are two 1/4” TRS connectors on the rear of the X-48MKII, used for sending and receiving time code (LTC). These connectors are balanced to allow for long cable runs with minimal interference. Please refer to pages 3740 for details on time code options.

Footswitch

A momentary footswitch may be connected to this 1/4” TS connector for hands free play, stop, and punch-in/out

operation.

NOTE

To operate correctly, a footswitch must be connected before the X-48MKII is powered on.

Remote (Sony 9-Pin)

This is also known as “P2” or “Sony P2” or “RS-422”. Various recording consoles and video controllers support this protocol for transport control and track record enable. This requires a specifically constructed cable. If in doubt, pre-made RS-422 cables are readily available.

Pin No. Controlling end Non-controlling end

1 GND GND 2 RX– TX– 3 TX+ RX+ 4 TX common RX common 5 Spare (NC) Spare (NC) 6 RX common TX common 7 RX+ TX+ 8 TX– RX– 9 GND GND

Video Reference (Tri Level Sync)

MIDI

There are two MIDI connectors on the rear of the X-48MKII. These are used for MIDI Machine Control (MMC) and MIDI Time Code (MTC).

IN This connector receives MTC, which the

X-48MKII can chase, or MMC, which the X-48MKII can respond to. The front panel MIDI LED will illuminate when valid MIDI signals are present at this connector.

OUT This connector outputs MTC any time the

transport is in motion. That MTC output follows the frame rate and output options set for LTC output. MIDI machine control (MMC) open loop and closed loop are supported.

IN When the X-48MKII is used in a lm/video post

production environment, it may be necessary to resolve a consistent sample range with the time code edge. A video reference (blackburst) signal applied to this connector makes this possible. Please refer to page 19 for details on conguring the use of signals present at this connector.

Tri Level Sync is the video reference signal used for High Definition Video. This connector automatically senses the type of signal present.

THRU The video reference signal present at the IN

connector is passed through out this

connector without additional processing delay. This allows for daisy-chaining another device, after the X-48MKII, which requires a video reference signal.

16 TASCAM X-48MK II

3 – Setup

Keyboard, Mouse & Monitor

A standard PC keyboard and mouse (or trackball) may be connected to the P/S2 or USB ports on the rear of the X-48MKII. To take full advantage of these peripherals, it is recommended that a full keyboard with numerical keypad and a scrolling wheel mouse be used.

Your monitor should be capable displaying a resolution of at least 1024x768 pixels at a refresh rate of at least 60 Hz. The maximum resolution of the X-48MKII’s display output is 2048x1536 pixels.

NOTE

The extra controls present on some multimedia keyboards, such as media player transport controls, are not supported by the X-48MKII. Similarly, a mouse or trackball that depends on the installation of custom driver software is not supported by the X-48MKII.

Network

This unit has a 100/1000 (gigabit) port as a network connector (Ethernet).

You can use the unit’s software to configure it.

Network cable used for the port should be minimally CAT-

5. While network hubs and switches can be used with the

X-48MKII, such devices may reduce network throughput, particularly on a network with much traffic.

To use the preinstalled MX-View software to control a TASCAM MX-2424, you must set the IP address correctly. Otherwise, communication with the MX-2424 will fail.

For more details about software configurations to use the X-48MKII within a networked environment, please refer to ‘Networking’ (page 22).

External Drives

External hard drives may be connected to the eS ATA or USB 2.0 ports on the rear of the X-48MKII to be used as

record destination or copy destination drives.

USB Flash Drives, “Thumb Drives”, may be connected to an X-48MKII’s USB port. Such drives can be useful as source drives for copying material onto the X-48MKII’s drive, copy destination drives for moving material off an X-48MKII, or for software updating. It is not recommended to record directly to such a drive due to their slow write speeds.

External optical drives (DVD, CDR, CDR/W) are not supported.

Powering On / Standby

Now that things are connected, it’s time to plug in the X-48MKII and power it on.

Momentarily press the STANDBY/ON button on the front panel and the X-48MKII will boot up. The boot process takes about 1 1/4 minutes to complete. When ready, the X-48MKII will display its track screen on a connected VGA monitor and the currently loaded project with time code on the front panel LCD display.

To power off the X-48MKII, either select Shutdown from the File menu in the VGA UI or momentarily press the front panel STANDBY/ON button. In either case, you will be prompted to save the currently loaded project then confirm the shutdown.

NOTE

Disconnect all USB flash drives before starting the unit. Starting the unit with a USB flash drive connected could prevent the unit from functioning properly. If this should happen, follow these procedures.

1) When the Press F1 To Continue prompt appears, press the F1 key on the keyboard.

2) Disconnect the USB flash drive.

After disconnecting the USB flash drive the unit might restart 2–3 times to restore its ordinary state.

External Applications

CAUTION

While the X-48MKII is based on PC/Windows architecture, it is not configured for general PC use. The Windows Embedded operating system used on the X-48MKII does not include general use components. We strongly advise you not to install non-qualified software on the X-48MKII. Doing so could lead to undesirable results, including X-48MKII malfunction, requiring you to use the X-48MKII System Restore CD to restore it to its original factory configuration.

MX-View

Pre-installed on the X-48MKII is MX-View Version 1.40, for control of any existing MX-2424 machines you may have. For MX-View operational instructions, please refer to the MX-View Manual.

CAUTION

When recording to any external drive, it is strongly recommended to run the Drive Benchmarking utility to ensure the drive is fast enough for the desired number of record tracks. For example, while e SATA itself is fast enough for high track counts, the actual drive inside an external drive enclosure may be a low RPM drive, not capable of high track counts.

TASCAM Mixer Companion

Pre-installed on the X-48MKII is TASCAM Mixer Companion Version 1.50. This allows the X-48MKII to act as the host computer for TMC when connected via USB to a TASCAM DM-3200 or DM-4800 digital mixer.

TMC updates may be installed by running the TMC update installer by selecting Launch External Application from the X-48MKII’s File menu. The TMC update installer would have

TASCAM X-48MKII 17

to be on a piece of media that the X-48MKII has access to, such as a CD or USB flash drive.

CAUTION

Only Version 1.50 or higher (Windows version) is designed to operate on the X-48MKII. Earlier versions of TMC should not be installed on the X-48MKII.

Using the X-48MKII System Restore CD

In the event it becomes necessary to use the X-48MKII System Restore CD to restore your X-48MKII to its original factory configuration, following the steps below will ensure a smooth restore process:

1 Back up all audio data. This should already be done

as part of a regular workflow.

2 Check the TASCAM website (http://tascam.com/)

for the latest firmware and patch updates. If any are available, download them and use them to update the unit after using the System Restore CD to reinstall the system.

3 With the X-48MKII powered on, insert the System

Restore CD then restart the X-48MKII. The VGA UI doesn’t have to be displayed, all that is required is power to open the drive tray. If necessary, the X-48MKII can be forced to shut down by holding the front panel power button for a few seconds.

4 The X-48MKII will automatically boot from the

System Restore CD and run the X-48MKII Installer. Please follow the steps in the X-48MKII Installer screens.

3 – Setup

CAUTION

When using the included System Restore CD to reinstall the system, always disconnect all external hard disks connected by eSATA or USB, including USB flash drives. Failure to do so will result in the System Restore CD erasing all data on these external hard disks.

NOTE

When formatting you can select whether to format only the OS partition (Windows XP Embedded and the X-48 Application) and rewrite the software or to also format the data partition at the same time.

18 TASCAM X-48MK II

4 – Configuration

This section helps you with the software settings you’ll need to make in order for the X-48MKII to work smoothly in your application.

Display Settings

Your monitor should be capable displaying a resolution of at least 1024x768 pixels at a refresh rate of at least 60 Hz. The maximum resolution of the X-48MKII’s display output is 2048x1536 pixels. You change the display resolution from the Windows menu.

NOTE

Resolution depends on the resolution of the connected display.

Mouse/Keyboard Operation

1 Click the Windows menu and select Display Settings...

2 Move the slider to change the display resolution

(the minimum resolution is 1024 x 768) and press Apply.

Setting the date and time

Set the built-in clock for accurate timestamping.

Mouse/Keyboard Operation (only)

Select Set Date and Time from the File menu, and set

the date and time.

The seven menu keys are used to access the following functions:

PROJ Goes directly to the list of project manage-

ment functions such as New, Open,

Save, Save As, Delete and Copy.

DISK Goes directly to the list of hard drive

management functions such as a Free

Space display and disk formatting utility.

INP 1-24 Goes directly to input routing menus for

inputs 1 through 24. In most cases, these will be left at their default settings since much output routing can be done from a recording console. The choices presented in this menu allows the use of consoles with less than 48 outputs.

INP 25-48 Goes directly to input routing menus for

inputs 25 through 48. In most cases, these will be left at their default settings since much output routing can be done from a recording console. The choices presented in this menu allows the use of consoles with less than 48 outputs.

SYNC Goes directly to the list of synchronization

settings and functions such as time code frame rate, digital audio clock settings and time code chase options.

PREF Goes directly to a list of general operat-

ing preferences for the X-48MKII such as transport options, pre/post roll options, front panel UI options and external control options.

SYS Goes directly to a list of system settings

such as save/load of user congurations and network settings.

Navigating the LCD Interface

To access menus and settings from the X-48MKII front panel, use the six buttons directly below the LCD display.

Front Panel Operation

1 Press one of the seven menus on the bottom right

corner of the unit: PROJ, DISK, INP 1-24, INP 25-48, SYNC, PREF or SYS. See below for an explanation of each of these menus.

2 Press the 5/b buttons to scroll through menus.

3 When you find a setting you want to edit, press

CHNG (Change).

4 Press the 5/b buttons to choose a setting.

5 When you’re finished, press ENTER to save or EXIT

to cancel your edit.

6 At any time, you can press HOME to get out of the

menu system and back to the main screen.

Sample Rates

The X-48MKII supports the base sample rates of 44.1k, 48k,

88.2k and 96k. The sample rate for your project should

be set immediately after creating the project and before recording any audio. New projects will be created at the currently set sample rate by default. A project’s sample rate is stored as part of the project.

If a project’s sample rate is changed after recording audio into that project, a confirmation dialog will be presented. Proceeding with the sample rate change will cause the project to play back faster or slower than it was originally recorded.

You will notice many other sample rates in the list besides the four noted above. Those are “pull up” and “pull down” rates for use in film and video applications. This will be covered in ‘Synchronization’ (page 35).

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