User manual ALESIS 7-51-0214-B

Reference Manual This page intentionally left blank 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% Table Of Contents Introduction..........................................................5 About the IO|14 and IO|26 ..............................................6 How to Use This Manual ...................................................7 Chapter 1: Hardware Overview .......................9 Section Identification........................................................9 Top Panel ..................................................................................................... 9 Rear Panel .................................................................................................... 12 Install the software/drivers first.....................................15 Install Cubase LE (optional) ............................................16 Connect your IO|14/26 ......................................................16 Make IO|14/26 the default audio device .......................17 Disable Windows System Sounds....................................19 Chapter 2: Installation (Windows)...................15 Chapter 3: Installation (Macintosh) ................21 Install the software/drivers first.....................................21 Install Cubase LE (optional) ............................................21 Connect your IO|14/26 ......................................................21 Make IO|14/26 the active audio device .........................22 Chapter 4: Getting Started with Cubase LE..............................................................23 Introducing Cubase LE .....................................................23 Windows only: selecting the IO|14/26 as your audio and MIDI device. ...........................................23 Creating a new file .............................................................27 Chapter 5: Using the Control Panel ................31 Working with the IO14/26 control panel .......................31 Accessing the control panel....................................................................... 31 1. Select the Alesis IO. .............................................................................. 31 2. Create a nickname for your IO|14/26 (optional) ............................ 31 3. Adjust latency by changing the buffer size ........................................ 32 4. Choose a Buffer Mode ......................................................................... 32 5. Specify how sample rates can change................................................. 33 6. Enable or Disable WDM audio........................................................... 33 (Windows only) ........................................................................................... 33 7. Set the clock master .............................................................................. 33 8 Specify the audio clock source ............................................................. 33 9. Set the sample rate ................................................................................ 34 Chapter 6: Hardware Direct Monitoring.............................................................35 1 Table Of Contents The Alesis Hardware Direct Monitoring and Routing Application...........................................................35 Using the Hardware Direct Monitoring (HDM) panel.........................................................................35 1. Output Monitor Tabs ........................................................................... 36 2. Pan/Mute/Solo ..................................................................................... 36 3. Volume.................................................................................................... 36 4. Stereo Channel Linking and Unlinking.............................................. 36 5. Channel Names...................................................................................... 36 6. Master HDM Mix Fader....................................................................... 36 7. Narrow/Wide View Switch ................................................................. 37 8. Metering Options .................................................................................. 37 9. Bank Hide/Show buttons .................................................................... 37 10. ADAT-S/PDIF Toggle ...................................................................... 37 11. Main Level............................................................................................ 37 12. Save/Recall Settings ............................................................................ 38 14. Headphones 2 Assignment ................................................................ 38 15. S/PDIF output assignment ............................................................... 38 Chapter 7: Getting In Deeper: Hardware...............................................................39 Cabling 101...........................................................................39 Common Hookup Scenarios .............................................40 Singer / Songwriter .................................................................................... 40 Full Studio Setup......................................................................................... 41 Using the Insert Jacks.......................................................42 Additional Uses of Insert Jacks................................................................ 43 Chapter 8: Getting In Deeper: Recording ..............................................................45 Watch Your Levels While Recording..............................45 Base Sample Rates: 44.1/88.2/ ..........................................46 176.4kHz versus 48/96/192kHz..........................................46 High Resolution Recording..............................................46 The Upside of High Definition recording.............................................. 46 The Downsides of High Definition Recording ..................................... 47 Surround Sound (IO|26 only)..........................................49 Using the IO14/26 with Sonar and other WDM applications ..............................................................50 WDM or ASIO? Experiment with both protocols .............................. 50 Choosing the IO14/26 as your audio device.......................................... 50 Chapter 9: Troubleshooting ..............................53 Computer or audio application does not see the IO|14 or IO|26 interface............................................56 Basic troubleshooting................................................................................. 56 Advanced troubleshooting under Windows ........................................... 56 2 Table Of Contents Audio playback or recording is at the wrong speed......................................................................................58 Audio playback or recording stutters or drops out...............................................................................59 Audio echoes during recording.......................................59 Technical Specifications ....................................60 Technical Specifications...................................................60 Glossary .................................................................63 Warranty/Contact Alesis ....................................67 Alesis Limited Warranty............................................................................. 67 Alesis Contact Information....................................................................... 68 Trademarks .................................................................................................. 68 3 Table Of Contents This page intentionally left blank 4 Introduction Thank you for purchasing the Alesis IO FireWire audio interface! You could say Alesis knows a thing or two about recording. Countless artists, engineers, and producers have relied on our digital recorders since the introduction of the original "Blackface" ADAT in 1991. Some publications have even claimed that our ADAT recorders started the "home studio revolution" back in the 1990s. We're proud that our line of affordable tools has made professional-quality recording possible for millions of people around the world. The IO series FireWire interfaces are the next step in Alesis recording technology. Once you work with the IO|14/26, we're confident you'll appreciate the outstanding sound quality, superior construction, and attention to detail. We're continually delighted by the recordings that have been captured with our products. We hope that your IO|14/26 will be there to inspire and capture your finest performances. For more effective service and product update notices, please register your IO|14 or IO|26 FireWire interface at http://www.alesis.com/. Sincerely, The People of Alesis 5 Introduction About the IO|14 and IO|26 Our IO|14 and IO|26 audio interfaces are professional-grade tools with everything you need to turn your musical ideas to polished recordings. The two units are virtually identical except that the larger IO|26 has more inputs and outputs than its smaller sibling, the IO|14. The IO|14 and IO|26 feature the following: · High-speed FireWire (IEEE 1394a) interface for low latency and tons of audio I/O from your computer. The high bandwidth of the FireWire interface allows a single IO|26 to handle 26 inputs and 8 outputs simultaneously (the IO|14 handles 14 inputs and 6 outputs simultaneously). Premium 192k analog-to-digital and digital-to-analog converters. True 24-bit operation for all digital and analog inputs and outputs. High-Definition Microphone Preamplifiers. This new design exhibits superb technical performance and delivers pristine, unclouded sonics. +48v phantom power--required for powering condenser studio microphones--can be applied to any pair of inputs on the unit. Switchable guitar inputs for direct recording of guitars and basses. Dedicated stereo turntable inputs (IO|26 only). Alesis Hardware Direct Monitoring for hassle-free headphone mixes in any recording situation. The included software makes setting up mixes a snap. Two headphone outputs optimized for the recording engineer and the artist. S/PDIF I/O and ADAT inputs to cover all of your digital connectivity needs.. Inserts on every analog input for patching additional hardware into your signal path. Integrated MIDI I/O on standard 5-pin connectors. FireWire bus or AC adapter power. Solid construction that's built for many years of heavy use. · · · · · · · · · · · · 6 Introduction How to Use This Manual We know this manual will be an integral part of the experience with your IO 14 or IO|26 interface so we've done our best to make it complete, accurate, and helpful for you. The manual is divided into the following sections describing the various functions and applications of the IO audio interface. While it's a good idea to read through the entire manual once carefully, those having general knowledge about audio interfaces may want to use the table of contents to look up specific topics. Chapter 1: Hardware Overview describes every section of the IO|14/26's in detail. If you're not sure about the function of a knob, button, connector, or status light, read this section for clarification. Chapter 2: Installation (Windows) walks you though the installation of the drivers and included software that accompany the IO|14/26. This section covers ASIO, WDM, and MIDI I/O drivers for the PC. Chapter 3: Installation (Macintosh) discusses installation of the CoreAudio and CoreMIDI drivers for Macintosh computers. Chapter 4: Getting Started with Cubase LE is designed to help you start recording right away. Chapter 5: Using the Control Panel shows you how to configure the IO|14/26. Chapter 6: Hardware Direct Monitoring provides detailed instructions for using the IO1|14/26's built-in digital mixer for low-latency audio monitoring. Chapter 7: Getting In Deeper: Hardware covers a variety hardware issues such as cabling, using the IO|14/26's insert jacks, and wiring up a home studio. Chapter 8: Getting In Deeper: Recording discusses various recording methods and techniques and includes a special section for Cakewalk SONAR users. Chapter 9: Troubleshooting provides various troubleshooting techniques in case of difficulty. Technical Specifications covers a variety of technical information that technical users will want to know. And at the end of this manual you'll see a glossary of common terms and a page about the IO|14/26's warranty. When something important appears in the manual, an exclamation mark (like the one shown at left) will appear with some explanatory text. This symbol indicates that this information is vital when operating the IO|14 and IO|16 interfaces. Helpful tips and advice are highlighted in a shaded box like this. 7 Introduction This page intentionally left blank. 8 1 Hardware Overview Section Identification Top Panel Here's what you'll find on the top of your IO|14/26: MIC / LINE The combo jack inputs The XLR input "expects" to see a microphone and delivers between 6.8dB and 50dB of gain, depending on the position of the gain knob. 1. Inputs ­ The IO|14/26 features "combo" connectors that allow you to connect either XLR or ¼" cables to the inputs. For the IO's inputs, use one of three different cable types: The ¼" input "expects" to see either a line input or an electric guitar or bass, depending on the setting of the Mic/Line/Guitar switch. In the Line position, the input provides between -15.4dB and 27.8dB of gain. This allows plenty of gain for weak line level sources and also provides the ability to pad down overly powerful line sources. In the Guitar position, the input provides 6.8dB to 50dB of gain--the same range as the XLR input. Use XLR cables to connect to standard microphones. For ¼" connections to balanced gear (like most keyboards and sound modules), use cables with "TRS" plugs. TRS stands for "Tip, Ring, Sleeve." For ¼" connections to unbalanced gear (like most electric guitars and basses), use cables with "TS" plugs. TS stands for "Tip, Sleeve." These cables do not have the third wire which TRS cables use to balance the audio signal. Choose the right cable for the job. "TRS" cables provide a stronger signal and significantly better noise shielding when used with balanced gear than "TS" cables. If you're not sure whether an instrument is balanced, your safest bet is to use a balanced ¼" TRS cable. 9 1 2. Hardware Overview Inserts ­ The IO|14/26 features "insert" jacks on every analog input. These inserts allow you to place additional equipment (like compressors, equalizers, etc.) into your signal path using "insert" cables. Insert cables feature a ¼" TRS connector on one end and two ¼" TS connectors on the other end.. This jack is covered in detail on page 42. 3. Mic/Line or Guitar Switch (Channels 1-2 only) ­ Channels 1 and 2 of your IO|14/26 allow you to switch in a specially designed, high-impedance circuit optimized for recording an electric guitar or bass. If you're recording a microphone or a line-level instrument (keyboard, sampler, DJ mixer, etc.) then set this switch to "Mic/Line." If you're recording a guitar or bass with passive (standard) pickups, set this input to "Guitar." Gain Knobs ­ These knobs let you set the preamplifier gain level. Set the gain with the aid of the meters on the front of the IO14/26. Start with the gain knob turned all the way down (counterclockwise); then slowly turn up the gain until the green LEDs are often illuminated and the yellow LED only illuminates when you play your loudest notes. At this point. If the red LED is lighting up (even occasionally), it means the gain is set too high and that you're distorting your signal. Turn the gain knob back down as necessary in order to avoid this distortion. 4. It's OK to set your gain levels conservatively with the IO|14 and IO|26. These interfaces feature outstanding analogto-digital converters and preamplifiers, allowing you to capture excellent recordings even if your signals peak at -9dB (or even lower). Analog and digital distortion are totally unrelated phenomena. Whereas certain kinds of analog distortion (from guitar amplifiers, stomp boxes, etc.) can sound pleasing, digital distortion sounds awful. If your IO|14/26's meters are going into the red (even every once in a while), it means you're digitally distorting your signal. Turn down the channel gain in these cases. 10 Hardware Overview 1 5. Monitor Blend Knob ­ This knob controls the amount of direct signal (from the analog and digital inputs) that gets blended in to outputs 1/2. This direct signal monitoring bypasses the computer for lag-free listening while tracking. The levels and pan positions of each of the direct signals is set using the "Hardware Direct Monitoring" program that ships with the IO|14/26 (see page 35 for more about this program). When this knob is turned fully counterclockwise, the Hardware Direct Monitor mix is muted, so you'll only hear the output being returned from your computer's Digital Audio Workstation. When the knob is turned fully clockwise, you'll hear the Hardware Direct Monitoring mix at full volume as well as the signal coming back from your DAW. 6. Metering Section ­ 5-segment "ladder" meters show the precise, digital input signal for each analog channel. Status lights indicate Firewire connection to the computer, current sample rate, and ADAT input, S/PDIF input, and MIDI activity. Stereo output meters show the levels for outputs 1/2. 7. Phones 1&2 Volume ­ The IO|14/26 has two separate headphone outputs. These knobs let you set the volume for each output. Main Level ­ This knob sets the output level of channels 1/2. Mic/Line or Phono Switch (IO|26 only) ­ Turntables require special "phono" preamps that have higher gain and an "RIAA equalization curve" in order to playback records correctly. If you want to connect a turntable to your IO|26, use the RCA "phono" inputs (on the rear of the unit) and engage this switch. Note that when you engage this switch, the top panel inputs and gain controls for channels 7-8 are disabled. 8. 9. 10. Phantom Power ­ These switches let you supply +48v "Phantom Power" to condenser microphones that require power. Each button engages/disengages phantom power for a pair of inputs (i.e., channels 1-2, 3-4, 5-6, and 7-8). Phantom power is only necessary for condenser microphones. Dynamic microphones do not need power to work correctly. Check your microphone's manual to find out if it needs phantom power. 11 1 Hardware Overview Rear Panel You'll find the following on the rear of your IO|14/26: 1. Headphone Outputs ­ Connect your headphones to these outputs. The first headphone output always mirrors the analog 1/2 output pair. The second headphone output is assignable in software. Main outputs (8 outputs on IO|26; 2 outputs on IO|14) ­ Use ¼," "TRS" cables to connect these outputs to the balanced inputs of your powered speakers or power amplifier. If your speakers or amplifier only provide unbalanced inputs, use unbalanced ("TS") cables. The IO|26 (shown above) has 8 outputs. The IO|14 has 2 outputs. If you are using the IO|26 and wish to connect additional speakers, headphone amplifiers or hardware processors, connect them to outputs 3 through 8. 2. The IO14/26's outputs are "impedance balanced." This wiring method provides all of the benefits of "fully balanced" wiring when the outputs are connected to balanced gear. Furthermore, impedance balancing, unlike other balancing methods, allows for trouble-free connection to unbalanced devices. 3. Phono input (IO|26 only) ­ Connect your turntable to this input. If your turntable has a grounding cable, attach it to the grounding screw to the upper right of the phono inputs. This grounding will minimize humming and buzzing. 4. ADAT Lightpipe Inputs ­ These optical digital inputs can accommodate a wide variety of ADAT-enabled gear. The IO|14 has one ADAT input whereas the IO|26 (shown above) has two ADAT inputs. Use ADAT-compatible optical cables to connect to these inputs. If you connect an ADAT or S/PDIF input device (or both), you will need to select one of them as the "clock master" in the IO's control panel. The device you select as the clock master will determine the IO's clock rate and will be responsible for keeping all of the digital signals synchronized. Therefore, if you turn this device off, you will need to select another clok master in the control panel. 5. S/PDIF Connectors ­ Connect S/PDIF-enabled digital devices (such as the Alesis Masterlink, CD players, DAT machines, MiniDisc Recorders, etc.) to your IO|14/26 using coaxial, RCA-terminated cables. MIDI Connectors ­ Connect your keyboards, sound modules, or other MIDI devices to your IO|14/26 using 5pin MIDI cables. Remember to chain the OUTs of each device to the INs of other devices. 6. 12 Hardware Overview 1 7. FireWire Connectors ­ Connect one of these plugs to your computer's FireWire port. You can use the other jack to connect additional FireWire devices (such as hard drives) to your computer. Up to 127 devices can be "daisy-chained" on one FireWire bus. Power Connector ­ Use the supplied AC adapter if your computer does not provide sufficient Firewire bus power to power the IO|14/26 or if you want to preserve battery power. Note that many notebook and small form factor computers, like Mac Mini computers, do not provide sufficient power for bus power. For these computers, the external adapter must be used. 8. If an AC adapter is attached, the IO|14/26 will use it. FireWire bus power is only used if no AC power is available. Computers with noisy internal power supplies can send periodic, audible pulsing through the outputs of your IO|14/26. If you hear a low-level pulsing, plug in the AC adapter to bypass the computer's power supply. 9. Kensington Security Slot ­ This locking mechanism allows you to secure your IO|14/26 to a desk or some other heavy object using an optional third-party locking device. 13 1 Hardware Overview This page intentionally left blank 14 2 Installation (Windows) Important: Download and install the drivers from http://www.alesis.com-or insert the software CD into your computer's CD drive--BEFORE you plug your IO|14/26 into your computer for the first time. Install the software/drivers first Important: Follow these steps BEFORE you plug your IO14/26 into your computer for the first time. Begin by running the Alesis installer(s). These programs (there may be one or more than one) will install three very important components onto your computer: · Drivers. These are the system components that allow Microsoft Windows to identify and interact with your IO|14/26. You do not interact with the drivers directly, but they must be installed on your computer for the IO|14/26 to work. Control Panel. The control panel allows you to set sample rates, clock sources, buffer sizes, and other settings. Hardware Direct Monitoring Panel. This application lets you route the IO|14/26's inputs directly to its outputs for a minimum of latency (delay) when recording. The Hardware Direct Monitoring Panel also allows you to change Headphone2 and S/PDIF output assignments. For each of the several installations that occur, click "Continue Anyway" if Windows warns you that the drivers have not passed Microsoft Logo Certification. If you have access to the Internet, check http://www.alesis.com for the very latest software updates. The updates posted there are guaranteed to be the most current, best software versions available. · Windows XP, Service Pack 2 or later is required. · The Windows drivers include the two most popular standards for audio interfacing--WDM (the "Windows Driver Model" built by Microsoft) and ASIO (the "Audio Stream Input/Output" standard used by many audio software applications). Windows Logo Certification warning. Ignore this warning by clicking "Continue Anyway." 15 2 Installation (Windows) Install Cubase LE (optional) If you are interested in using Cubase LE as your multitrack Digital Audio Workstation, install it from the CD now. Connect your IO|14/26 Now, connect your IO|14/26 to your computer using a Firewire cable. Watch for one of the lights on the unit to turn on within a few seconds. If a light does not turn on--or if you are using a notebook computer with a small four-pin Firewire connector-- plug in the external AC adapter. Windows will recognize the IO|14/26 and start the Found New Hardware wizard. The installation process will automatically install these drivers one by one. When you are prompted whether to install the drivers automatically or search for a specific location, choose to install them automatically. If you are asked whether you want to connect to the Internet to check for the latest driver, choose not to. Let the installer continue installing the various sets of drivers until you see a message stating, "Your new hardware is installed and ready to use." Do not cancel any of the installations, as they are all required for proper operation. 16 Installation (Windows) 2 Make IO|14/26 the default audio device To use your IO|14/26 interface as your default Windows sound device, follow these steps: 1. From the Windows Start menu, choose "Control Panel." Depending on your Windows preferences, it will appear similar to one of the two pictures below: 2. 3. Choose "Sounds and Audio Devices". Click the "Audio" tab. Change the default devices for both sound playback and sound recording to your IO interface. 17 2 Installation (Windows) 4. Click the "Voice" tab. Change the voice playback and voice recording settings to the IO|14/26. 5. Click "Apply" to apply these changes. 18