User manual RME MADIWIN

User's Guide Hammerfall® DSP System MADI TotalMix 24 Bit / 192 kHz ü SyncAlign ® TM ZLM ® SyncCheck TM ® SteadyClock PCI Busmaster Digital I/O Card 64 Channels MADI Interface 24 Bit / 192 kHz Digital Audio Stereo Analog Monitoring 64 x 64 Matrix Router 2 x MIDI I/O MIDI embedded in MADI Quick Boot Contents Introduction............................................................ 4 Package Contents .................................................. 4 System Requirements............................................ 4 Brief Description and Characteristics................... 4 Technical Specifications 5.1 Digital.................................................................... 5 5.2 Inputs .................................................................... 5 5.3 Outputs ................................................................. 6 5.4 Analog................................................................... 6 5.5 Transfer Modes: Resolution/Bits per Sample......... 7 6 Hardware Installation ............................................. 7 7 Driver Installation 7.1 Windows 2000/XP ................................................. 8 7.2 Driver Update........................................................ 8 7.3 Flash Update......................................................... 8 7.4 Deinstalling the Drivers ......................................... 9 7.5 Linux/Unix ............................................................. 9 8 Connectors 8.1 Overview..............................................................10 8.2 MADI I/Os ............................................................10 8.3 Word Clock I/O.....................................................11 8.4 Analog Output ......................................................12 8.5 MIDI .....................................................................12 8.6 Internal Jumper ....................................................12 9 Operation and Usage 9.1 Playback ..............................................................13 9.2 DVD Playback (AC-3 / Multichannel) ....................14 9.3 Low Latency under MME ......................................15 9.4 Multi-Client Operation...........................................15 9.5 Record .................................................................16 10 Configuring the HDSP MADI 10.1 General Information............................................17 10.2 Clock Modes ­ Synchronization..........................19 11 Word Clock 11.1 Technical Description and Usage........................20 11.2 Cables and Termination......................................21 11.3 General Operation ..............................................21 12 Using more than one Hammerfall DSP ................21 13 Operation under ASIO 2.0 13.1 General ..............................................................22 13.2 Known Problems ................................................22 14 Operation under GSIF...........................................23 15 TotalMix: Routing and Monitoring .......................24 15.1 Elements of the Surface .....................................25 15.2 Tour de TotalMix ................................................26 15.3 Submix View ......................................................27 15.4 Mute and Solo ....................................................27 15.5 Hotkeys ..............................................................27 15.6 Quick Access Panel............................................28 15.7 Presets ...............................................................29 15.8 Monitor ...............................................................30 15.9 Menu Options .....................................................30 15.10 Level Meter ......................................................31 1 2 3 4 5 User's Guide Hammerfall DSP MADI © RME 2 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 The Matrix 16.1 Elements of the Surface .................................... 32 16.2 Usage................................................................ 32 16.3 Advantages of the Matrix................................... 33 TotalMix Super-Features 17.1 ASIO Direct Monitoring...................................... 33 17.2 Selection and Group-based Operation............... 34 17.3 Copy Routings to other Channels ...................... 34 17.4 Delete Routings................................................. 34 MADI Basics ......................................................... 35 SteadyClock.......................................................... 36 Hotline - Troubleshooting 20.1 General ............................................................. 36 20.2 Installation......................................................... 37 HDSP Software 21.1 DIGICheck 4.0................................................... 38 21.2 HDSP Meter Bridge 2.0 ..................................... 38 Accessories .......................................................... 39 TECH INFO ........................................................... 39 Warranty ............................................................... 40 Appendix............................................................... 40 CE / FCC Compliance........................................... 41 User's Guide Hammerfall DSP MADI © RME 3 1. Introduction Thank you for choosing the Hammerfall DSP MADI. This unique audio system is capable of transferring digital audio data directly into a computer, from any device equipped with a MADI interface. Installation is simple, even for the inexperienced user, thanks to the latest Plug and Play technology. The numerous unique features and well thought-out configuration dialog puts the Hammerfall DSP MADI at the very top of the range of digital audio interface cards. The package includes drivers for Windows 2000/XP. An ALSA driver for Linux is under development (see chapter 7.5). Our high-performance philosophy guarantees maximum system performance by executing all functions directly in hardware and not in the driver (i.e. the CPU). 2. Package Contents Please check that your Hammerfall DSP MADI package contains each of the following: · · · · · · HDSP MADI PCI card HDSP MADI expansion board Quick Info guide RME Driver CD MIDI breakout cable Expansion Board ribbon cable (14-conductor) 3. System Requirements · Windows 2000/XP, Linux · PCI Interface: a free PCI rev. 2.1 Busmaster slot Note: Examples and detailed descriptions of suitable audio desktop systems can be found in the Tech Info RME Reference PCs: Hardware recommendations. 4. Brief Description and Characteristics · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · Hammerfall design: 0% (zero!) CPU load, even using all 128 ASIO channels All settings can be changed in real-time 8 available buffer sizes/latencies: 1.5 / 3 / 6 / 12 / 23 / 46 / 93 / 186 ms 32 channels 96 kHz/24 bit record/playback Automatic and intelligent master/slave clock control Word clock input and output Zero Latency Monitoring: Hardware bypass per track, controlled by Punch in/out Enhanced ZLM for latency-free submixes and perfect ASIO Direct Monitoring SyncAlign guarantees sample aligned and never swapping channels SyncCheck tests and reports the synchronization status of input signals 2 x MIDI I/O, 32 channels high-speed MIDI DIGICheck DSP: Level meter in hardware, peak- and RMS calculation TotalMix: 8192 channel mixer with 40 bit internal resolution SteadyClock: Jitter-immune, super-stable digital clock Quick Boot technology for immediate loading of the hardware settings User's Guide Hammerfall DSP MADI © RME 4 5. Technical Specifications 5.1 Digital General · · · · · · · · Clocks: Internal, MADI In, Word Clock In Low jitter design: < 1 ns in PLL mode, all inputs Internal clock: 800 ps jitter, random spread spectrum Jitter suppression of external clocks: about 30 dB (2.4 kHz) Effective clock jitter influence on AD and DA conversion: near zero Provides nearly jitter-free word clock directly from the MADI input signal Input PLL ensures zero dropout, even at more than 100 ns jitter Sample frequencies: 32 / 44.1 / 48 / 88.2 / 96 / 176.4* / 192* kHz *Not yet supported MIDI · · · · · · · · 2 x MIDI I/O via breakout cable 1 x MIDI I/O via MADI PCI bus based hi-speed operation Seperate 128 byte FIFO for input and output MIDI state machine in hardware for reduced interrupt request load Invisible transmission via User bit of channel 56 (up to 48 kHz) Invisible transmission via User bit of channel 28 (up to 96 kHz) Invisible transmission via User bit of channel 14 (up to 192 kHz) 5.2 Inputs MADI · · · · · · · · · · Coaxial via BNC, 75 Ohm, according to AES10-1991 High-sensitivity input stage (< 0.2 Vpp) Optical via FDDI duplex SC connector 62.5/125 and 50/125 compatible Accepts 56 channel and 64 channel mode, plus 96k and 192k Frame Single Wire: up to 64 channels 24 bit 48 kHz Double Wire: up to 32 channels 24 bit 96 kHz Quad Wire: up to 16 channels 24 bit 192 kHz Lock range: 25 kHz ­ 54 kHz Jitter when synced to input signal: < 1 ns Word Clock · · · · · · · · · · BNC, not terminated (10 kOhm) Switch for internal termination 75 Ohm Automatic Double Speed detection and internal conversion to Single Speed SteadyClock guarantees super low jitter synchronization even in varispeed operation AC-coupling, not effected by DC-offsets within the network Signal Adaptation Circuit: signal refresh through auto-center and hysteresis Overvoltage protection Level range: 1.0 Vss ­ 5.6 Vpp Lock range: 27 kHz ­ 200 kHz Jitter when synced to input signal: < 1 ns User's Guide Hammerfall DSP MADI © RME 5 MIDI · · · · 32 channels MIDI 5-pin DIN jacks Optocoupled, ground-free input 1 virtual MIDI port (MADI) 5.3 Outputs MADI · · · · · · · · · · · Coaxial via BNC, 75 Ohm, according to AES10-1991 Output voltage 600 mVpp Output voltage 1.2 Vpp optional, via jumper Cable length: more than 100 m Optical via FDDI duplex SC connector 62.5/125 and 50/125 compatible Cable length: more than 500 m Generates 56 channel and 64 channel mode, plus 96k and 192k Frame* Single Wire: up to 64 channels 24 bit 48 kHz Double Wire / 96K Frame: up to 32 channels 24 bit 96 kHz 192K Frame: up to 16 channels 24 bit 192 kHz* *Not yet supported Word Clock · · · · · BNC Max. output voltage: 5 Vpp Output voltage @ 75 Ohm: 4.0 Vpp Impedance: 10 Ohm Frequency range: 27 kHz ­ 56 kHz MIDI · 32 channels MIDI · 5-pin DIN jacks · 1 virtual MIDI port (MADI) 5.4 Analog DA - Stereo Monitor Output (Phones) · Signal to Noise ratio (SNR): 110 dB RMS unweighted, 112 dBA @ 44.1 kHz (unmuted) · THD: < - 100 dB, < 0.001 % · THD+N: < -98 dB, < 0.0015 % · Crosstalk: > 100 dB · Frequency response @ 44.1 kHz, -0.5 dB: 1 Hz ­ 21.1 kHz · Frequency response @ 96 kHz, -0.5 dB: 1 Hz ­ 43.5 kHz · Frequency response @ 192 kHz, -0.5 dB: 1 Hz ­ 70 kHz · Output: 6.3 mm TRS jack · Output impedance: 50 Ohm · Output level @ 0 dBFS: +13 dBu User's Guide Hammerfall DSP MADI © RME 6 5.5 Transfer Modes: Resolution / Bits per Sample ASIO: · 24 or 32 bit, 4 byte (stereo 8 byte) This format is compatible with 16-bit and 20-bit. Resolutions below 24-bit are handled by the audio application. MME: · 16 bit, 2 byte · 20 bit, 3 byte MSB · 20 bit, 4 byte MSB · 24 bit, 3 byte · 24 bit, 4 byte MSB · 32 bit, 4 byte (stereo 4 byte) (stereo 6 byte) (stereo 8 byte) (stereo 6 byte) (stereo 8 byte) (stereo 8 byte) The card supports multi-device operation only, channel interleave operation is not supported. 6. Hardware Installation Before installing the PCI card, please make sure the computer is switched off and the power cable is disconnected from the mains supply. Inserting or removing a PCI card while the computer is in operation will cause irreparable damage to both motherboard and card! 1. Disconnect the power cord and all other cables from the computer. 2. Remove the computer's housing. Further information on how to do this can be obtained from your computer´s instruction manual. 3. Important: Before removing the HDSP MADI from its protective bag, discharge any static in your body by touching the metal chassis of the PC. 4. Connect the HDSP MADI card with the Expansion Board using the supplied flat ribbon cable. Note: The connectors on the cable cannot be plugged in the wrong way round. 5. Insert the HDSP MADI firmly into a free PCI slot, press and fasten the screw. 6. Insert the Expansion Board and fasten the screw. 7. Replace the computer's housing. 8. Reconnect all cables including the power cord. Note: If neither word clock I/O nor MIDI I/O is required, it is not necessary to install the Expansion Board at all (i.e. leave out steps 4 and 6). User's Guide Hammerfall DSP MADI © RME 7 7. Driver Installation 7.1 Windows 2000/XP After the PCI card has been installed correctly (see 6. Hardware Installation), and the computer has been switched on, Windows will recognize the new hardware component and start its `Hardware Wizard'. Insert the RME Driver CD into your CD-ROM drive, and follow further instructions which appear on your computer screen. The driver files are located in the directory \HDSP_MADI_w2k on the RME Driver CD. Windows will install the Hammerfall DSP System driver, and will register the card in the system as a new audio device. After a reboot the HDSP MADI is ready for use. HDSP MADI can be easily configured using the HDSP Settings dialog (see section 10.1) In case the warning messages 'Digital signature not found', 'Do not install driver', 'not certified driver' or similar come up: simply ignore them and continue with the installation. In case the Hardware Wizard does not show up automatically after installation of the card, do not attempt to install the drivers manually! An installation of drivers for non-recognized hardware will cause a blue screen when booting Windows! 7.2 Driver Update RME's driver updates often include a new madi.inf file. Also the revision number of the hardware might change (after a flash update). To prevent Windows 2000/XP from using an old madi.inf, or to copy some of the old driver files, be sure NOT to let Windows search for the driver! Instead tell Windows what to do. Under Control Panel /System /Device Manager /Sound, Video and Game Controllers /RME Hammerfall DSP MADI/Properties /Driver you'll find the 'Update Driver' button. Select 'Install from a list or specific location (advanced)', click 'Next', select 'Don't search I will choose the driver to install', click 'Next', then 'Have Disk'. Now point to the driver update's directory. 7.3 Flash Update The Flash Update Tool updates the HDSP MADI's hardware to the latest version. It requires an already installed driver. Start the program fut_madi_xxx.exe. The Flash Update Tool displays the current version of the HDSP MADI (200 or up), and whether it needs an update or not. If so, then simply press the 'Update' button. A progress bar shows how several actions are performed. When the flash update process is finished, 'Success' will be displayed. If more than one interface cards are installed, all cards can be flashed by changing to the next tab and repeating the process. After the update the PCI card needs to be resettet. This is done by powering down and shutting off the PC. A warm boot is not enough. When the update fails (status: failure), the card's second BIOS will be used from the next cold boot on (Secure BIOS Technology). Therefore the card stays fully functional. The flash process should then be tried again on a different computer. Note for Windows 2000/XP users: Because of the changed hardware revision, Windows 2000/XP will start the hardware assistant and wants to install new drivers. Do NOT let Windows search for new drivers, but follow the instructions given in chapter 7.2 and manually perform a driver update. User's Guide Hammerfall DSP MADI © RME 8 7.4 Deinstalling the Drivers A deinstallation of the HDSP's driver files is not necessary ­ and not supported by Windows anyway. Thanks to full Plug & Play support, the driver files will not be loaded after the hardware has been removed. If desired these files can then be deleted manually. Unfortunately Windows Plug & Play methods do not cover the additonal autorun entries of TotalMix, the Settings dialog, and the registering of the ASIO driver. Those entries can be removed from the registry through a software deinstallation request. This request can be found (like all deinstallation entries) in Control Panel, Software. Click on the entry 'RME Hammerfall DSP MADI'. 7.5 Linux/Unix An ALSA driver for Linux/Unix is already under development and should be available soon. Even TotalMix has been ported to Linux. Further information on ALSA is available at http://www.alsa-project.org User's Guide Hammerfall DSP MADI © RME 9 8. Connectors 8.1 Overview HDSP MADI consists of the main PCI board and an Expansion Board. All the essential electronics are located on the PCI card, so it will also work without the Expansion Board. The main board's bracket has two MADI interfaces, optical and coaxial input and output each, a MADI erro LED and the analog line/headphone output. Configuration of inputs and outputs is done via the Settings dialog (started by clicking on the hammer symbol in the system tray). Identical signals are available at both the optical and the coaxial output. An obvious use for this would be to simply connect two devices, i.e. using the HDSP MADI as a splitter. The Expansion Board's bracket has the word clock input and output. Next to the input BNC socket, a green LED displays the word clock input's lock status. Between the BNC sockets, word clock termination can be activated and verified by a yellow LED. The included breakout cable is connected to the 9-pin Mini-DIN connector and provides two MIDI inputs and outputs. 8.2 MADI I/Os The BNC input's ground-free design is built according to AES10-1991. The input impedance is 75 Ohm. It will operate error-free from about 180 mVpp. The optical input and output uses a FDDI (ISO/IEC 9413-3) compatible optical module, according to AES10-1991. More information can be found in chapter 18, MADI Basics. HDSP MADI includes automatic input selection (Safe Mode Input). In case the current input signal fails, the unit switches to the other input immediately. This mode, called redundancy mode, offers improved safety against errors on the transmission line. Switching the inputs is done in about one second. Redundancy operation is disaplayed in the Settings dialog. The BNC output is built according to AES10-1991. The output's impedance is 75 Ohm. The output voltage will be 600 mVpp when terminated with 75 Ohm. Changing the internal blue jumper X4 to the upper position, the output voltage is increased to 1.2 Vpp. This setting is not intended to be used in normal operation. But in case of a very long or 'lossy' coaxial cable, this setting may ensure an error-free operation of the transmission line. User's Guide Hammerfall DSP MADI © RME 10 8.3 Word Clock I/O HDSP MADI includes SteadyClock, guaranteeing an excellent performance in all clock modes. Its highly efficient jitter suppression refreshes and cleans up any clock signal, and provides it as reference clock at the BNC output (see section 19). Input The transformer-isolated word clock input is loacated on the Expansion Board. It is activated via Pref. Sync Ref / Wordclock. As soon as a valid word clock signal is detected, the green 'Lock' LED beside the input jack lights up, and in the Settings dialog the field AutoSync Ref shows Word. Below the detected frequency of the word clock is shown. The word clock input is shipped as high impedance type (not terminated). A push switch allows to activate internal termination (75 Ohms). The switch is found between the BNC jacks. Use a small pencil or similar and carefully push the blue switch so that it snaps into its lock position. When termination is active the yellow TERM LED will be lit. Another push will release it again and de-activate the termination. Due to the HDSP MADI's outstanding clock control a synchronization of the output signal to the input signal is not only possible at identical sample rates, but also at half, quarter, double and quad sample rates. Example 1: A playback or recording at 44.1 kHz can be synchronized via an external signal of 44.1 kHz, 88.2 kHz or 176.4 kHz. Example 2: A playback or recording at 192 kHz can be synchronized via an external signal of 48 kHz, 96 kHz or 192 kHz. The input accepts all those frequencies fully automatically. Thanks to RME's Signal Adaptation Circuit, the word clock input still works correctly even with heavily mis-shaped, dc-prone, too small or overshoot-prone signals. Thanks to automatic signal centering, 300 mV (0.3V) input level are sufficient in principle. An additional hysteresis reduces sensitivity to 1.0 V, so that over- and undershoots and high frequency disturbances don't cause a wrong trigger. Output The word clock output of the HDSP MADI is always active. It provides the current sample frequency of the HDSP MADI as word clock signal. As long as the HDSP MADI operates in 'Master' mode (field 'Clock Mode'), the word clock will be fixed to the current sample rate. In 'AutoSync' mode the sample rate is identical to the one present at the currently chosen input (Pref. Sync Ref). Without a valid input signal, the card will change between the inputs automatically. As long as no valid input signal is found, the card will stay in Master mode. This way, the card will always generate a valid output signal. The word clock signal received by the HDSP MADI can be distributed to other devices by using the word clock output. With this the usual T-adapter can be avoided, and the HDSP MADI operates as Signal Refresher. This kind of operation is highly recommended, because · · · Input and output are phase-locked and in phase (0°) to each other SteadyClock removes nearly all jitter from the input signal the exceptional input (1 Vpp sensitivity instead of the usual 2.5 Vpp, dc cut, Signal Adaptation Circuit) plus SteadyClock guarantee a secure function also with most critical word clock signals. User's Guide Hammerfall DSP MADI © RME 11 8.4 Analog Output HDSP MADI offers a hi-quality analog monitor output. The short circuit protected stereo line output provides high output level, low impedance, and is available via a 6.3 mm (1/4") TRS jack. Therefore it is also suitable for a direct use with headphones. The analog output is directly driven from the channels 63/64. Its output volume is controlled by the hardware output faders of channel 63/64 in TotalMix. Additionally the analog output can play back any input or playback signal (submix, for example Preset 5, 6 and 7). RME's unique Speaker Protection reduces noise when switching the computer on and off, so there is no problem even when using active monitors. In case the output should operate as line out, an adapter TRS plug to RCA phono plugs, or TRS plug to TS plugs is required. The pin assignment follows international standards. The left channel is connected to the tip, the right channel to the ring of the TRS jack/plug. 8.5 MIDI Hammerfall DSP MADI offers two MIDI I/Os via 5-pin DIN jacks. The MIDI ports are added to the system by the driver. Using MIDI capable software, these ports can be accessed as MADI MIDI In 1 (1), MADI MIDI In 2 (2), MADI MIDI Out 1 (1) and MADI MIDI Out 2 (2). The brackets include the card number. The MIDI inputs can not operate multiclient, so a MIDI input signal can not be distributed to several programs at the same time. Such a functionality can be achieved with third party tools. The third MIDI port, MADI MIDI In 3 (1) and MADI MIDI Out 3 (1), receives and transmits MIDI data via MADI. This allows for a direct communication between systems with HDSP MADI cards. Additionally MIDI data can be transmitted from/to RME's ADI-648. Also the ADI-648 can be MIDI remote controlled without any additional line or cabling between computer (MADI card) and ADI-648. 8.6 Internal Jumper The internal blue jumper X4 is neither input nor output. It allows to change the voltage level at the coaxial MADI output. In the lower position, the card generates 600 mVpp (according to the specification). in case of a very long or 'lossy' coaxial cable, a higher output level might help to maintain an error-free operation. In the upper position, the output level is 1.2 Vpp. User's Guide Hammerfall DSP MADI © RME 12 9. Operation and Usage 9.1 Playback The HDSP system can play back audio data in supported formats only (sample rate, bit resolution). Otherwise an error message appears (for example at 22 kHz and 8 bit). In the audio application being used, HDSP must be selected as output device. This can often be found in the Options, Preferences or Settings menus under Playback Device, Audio Devices, Audio etc. We recommend using 24-bit resolution for playback, to make full use of the HDSP's potential. We strongly recommend switching all system sounds off (via >Control Panel /Sounds<). Also HDSP should not be the Preferred Device for playback, as this could cause loss of synchronization and unwanted noises. If you feel you cannot do without system sounds, you should consider buying a cheap Blaster clone and select this as Preferred Device in >Control Panel /Multimedia /Audio<. The RME Driver CD includes step by step instructions for configuring many popular audio applications, found in the directory \rmeaudio.web\english\techinfo\conf. The screenshot to the right shows a typical configuration dialog as displayed by a (stereo) wave editor. After selecting one of the 32 playback devices, audio data is sent to the according audio channels. Increasing the number and/or size of audio buffers may prevent the audio signal from breaking up, but also increases latency i.e. output is delayed. For synchronized playback of audio and MIDI (or similar), be sure to activate the checkbox `Get position from audio driver'. Even at higher buffer settings in a mixed Audio/MIDI environment, sync problems will not arise because the Hammerfall DSP always reports the current play position correctly (even while recording essential for chase lock synchronization). User's Guide Hammerfall DSP MADI © RME 13 9.2 DVD-Playback (AC-3 / DTS / Multichannel) under MME AC-3 / DTS When using popular DVD software player like WinDVD and PowerDVD, their audio data stream can be sent to any AC-3/DTS capable receiver using the HDSP MADI. For this to work, in most cases a device of the HDSP MADI has to be selected in 'Control Panel/Sounds and Multimedia/Audio'. Also check 'use preferred device only'. You will notice that the DVD software's audio properties now allow to use 'SPDIF Out' or to 'activate SPDIF output'. When selecting these, the software will transfer the non-decoded digital multichannel data stream to the Hammerfall DSP. Naturally a successful decoding also requires a MADI to AES converter, converting the playback channels to AES or SPDIF. Note: AC-3 sounds like chopped noise at highest level. Multichannel PowerDVD and WinDVD can also operate as software decoder, sending a DVD's multichannel data stream directly to any channels of the HDSP MADI. Supported are all modes, from 2 to 8 channels, at 16 bit resolution and 48 kHz sample rate. For this to work an output wave device of the HDSP has to be selected in 'Control Panel/Sounds and Multimedia/Audio'. Also check 'use preferred device only'. PowerDVD's audio properties now lists several multichannel modes. If one of these is selected, PowerDVD plays back the decoded analog multichannel data via the HDSP MADI. The device selected as Preferred Playback Device defines the first playback channel. Choosing ADAT 3/4 and 6-channel mode, playback will happen on channels 3 to 8. Choosing MADI 3/4 and 6-channel mode, playback will happen on channels 3 to 8. The channel assignment using PowerDVD is: 1 (first chosen playback channel) - Left 2 - Right 3 - Center 4 - LFE (Low Frequency Effects) 5 - SR (Surround Right) 6 - SL (Surround Left) Note 1: Setting the card to be used as system playback device is against common sense, as professional cards are not specialized to play back system sounds, and shouldn't be disturbed by system events. To prevent this, be sure to re-assign this setting after usage, or to disable any system sounds (tab Sounds, scheme 'No audio'). Note 2: The DVD player will be synced backwards from the HDSP card. This means when using AutoSync and/or word clock, the playback speed and pitch follows the incoming clock and sample rate. Note 3: PowerDVD 5 no longer supports a starting channel other than channel 1. Note 4: In WinDVD 5, a channel-seperated 5.1 playback using the HDSP requires a change in the registry. Start regedit, go to HKEY_CURRENT_USER / Software / InterVideo / DVD5 / AUDIOCHAN, and set its value to 4 (hexadecimal). Additionally select 'Waveout' as Audio Renderer in the Audio configuration dialog. Warning: Changes to the registry are done at your own risk. Danger of complete data loss! User's Guide Hammerfall DSP MADI © RME 14 9.3 Low Latency under MME (Buffer Size Adjustment) Using Windows 95 or 98 the MME buffer size was nothing to worry about. Latencies below 46 ms were not possible. Meanwhile both computers and operating system have become much more powerful, and with Windows 2000/XP latencies far lower can be used. SAWStudio and Sonar allowed to use such low settings from the start. Sequoia was updated in version 5.91, WaveLab in version 3.04. In the HDSP's Settings dialog the MME buffersize (in fact the DMA buffer size) is set with the same buttons as the ASIO buffer size. Our test computers allow to use settings down to 64 samples without clicks. Please note that this setting only defines the buffer size of the hardware. The true and effective latency is configured within the MME application! Attention: the DMA buffers must not be larger than the application's buffers. This case can happen unnoticed when using ASIO and MME at the same time (multi-client) and setting ASIO to 186 ms, while the buffers in the MME application are still set for a lower latency. Playback will be stuttering and audio will be distorted. Example: when you set the Hammerfall to 512 you can't use 128 in any program. But setting DMA to 128 allows to use 128 and all higher values within the software. Please also note that this is a 'you're welcome to try' feature. We can't guarantee that you will be able to use 3 or 6 ms with MME. Simply check out by yourself which lowest setting your system and software allows. Some motherboards with insufficient PCI bandwidth (especially VIA based) suffer from crackling at settings below 512. Be sure to set the buffer size to 512 or higher in such a case (or trash the motherboard...). 9.4 Multi-Client Operation RME audio cards support multi-client operation. This means several programs can be used at the same time. Also all formats, like ASIO, MME and GSIF can be used simultaneously. The use of multi-client operation requires to follow two simple rules: · Multi-client operation requires identical sample rates! It is not possible to use one software with 44.1 kHz and the other with 48 kHz. · Different software can not use the same channels at the same time. If for example Cubase uses channels 1/2 (default in Cubase, Master bus), this playback pair can't be used in Gigasampler/Studio (GSIF) nor under MME (WaveLab etc) anymore (the inputs can be used at the same time). This is no limitation at all, because TotalMix allows any output routing, and with this a playback of multiple software on the same hardware outputs. ASIO Multi-client RME audio cards support ASIO multi-client operation. It is possible to use more than one ASIO software at the same time. Again the sample rate has to be identical, and each software has to use its own playback channels. The inputs can be used simultaneously. An exception is our sophisticated tool DIGICheck. It operates like an ASIO host, using a special technique to access playback channels already occupied. Therefore DIGICheck is able to perform an analyzis and display of playback data from any software, no matter which format the software uses. User's Guide Hammerfall DSP MADI © RME 15 9.5 Recording Unlike analog soundcards which produce empty wave files (or noise) when no input signal is present, digital I/O cards always need a valid input signal to start recording. To take this into account, RME has included two unique features in the HDSP MADI: a comprehensive I/O signal status display (showing sample frequency, lock and sync status) in the Settings dialog, and the protective Safe Mode / Frequency function. If a 48 kHz signal is fed to the input and the application is set to 44.1 kHz, recording is prohibited. This prevents faulty takes, which often go unnoticed until later on in the production. Such tracks appear to have the wrong playback rate - the audio quality as such is not affected. The sample frequency shown in the Settings dialog (see chapter 10, screenshot Settings) is useful as a quick display of the current configuration (the board itself and all connected external equipment). If no sample frequency is recognized, it will read `No Lock'. With this configuring any suitable audio application for digital recording is simple. After selecting the required input, Hammerfall DSP displays the current sample frequency. This parameter can then be changed in the application's audio attributes (or similar) dialog. The screenshot to the right shows a typical dialog used for changing basic parameters such as sample frequency and resolution in an audio application. Any bit resolution can be selected, providing it is supported by both the audio hardware and the software. Even if the input signal is 24 bit, the application can still be set to record at 16-bit resolution. The lower 8 bits (and therefore any signals about 96dB below maximum level) are lost entirely. On the other hand, there is nothing to gain from recording a 16-bit signal at 24-bit resolution - this would only waste precious space on the hard disk. It often makes sense to monitor the input signal or send it directly to the output. This can be done at zero latency using TotalMix (see chapter 15). TotalMix also includes a useful automatic real-time monitor function, see chapter 15.8 for details. Activating record in the application causes the input signal to be routed according to the current mixer settings. Currently two solutions exist which enable an automated control of real-time monitoring. ZLM (Zero Latency Monitoring) allows monitoring in Punch I/O mode - with this the system behaves like a tape machine. This method has been implemented in all versions of Samplitude (by SEK'D), and can be activated using the global track option 'Hardware monitoring during Punch'. The other solution is Steinberg's ASIO protocol with our ASIO 2.0 drivers and all ASIO 2.0 compatible programs. When 'ASIO Direct Monitoring' has been switched on the input signal is routed in real-time to the output whenever Record is started. User's Guide Hammerfall DSP MADI © RME 16 10. Configuring the HDSP MADI 10.1 General Information Configuring the HDSP system is done using its own settings dialog. The panel 'Settings' can be opened in two different ways: · by clicking on the hammer icon in the Taskbar's system tray The mixer of the Hammerfall DSP System (TotalMix) can be opened in two different ways: · by clicking on the mixer icon in the Taskbar's system tray The Hammerfall DSP's hardware offers a number of helpful, well thought-of practical functions and options which affect how the card operates - it can be configured to suit many different requirements. The following is available in the 'Settings' dialog: · · · · · Input selection Output mode Synchronization behaviour Input and output status display Time code display* Any changes made in the Settings dialog are applied immediately confirmation (e.g. by clicking on OK or exiting the dialog) is not required. However, settings should not be changed during playback or record if it can be avoided, as this can cause unwanted noises. Also, please note that even in 'Stop' mode, several programs keep the recording and playback devices open, which means that any new settings might not be applied immediately. The status displays at the bottom of the dialog box give the user precise information about the current status of the system, and the status of all signals. `SyncCheck' indicates whether there is a valid signal for each input (`Lock' or `No Lock'), or if there is a valid and synchronous signal (`Sync'). The `AutoSync Ref' display shows the input and frequency of the current sync source. *'Time Code' displays time information received from the optional Sync Module. Quick Boot All the card's settings described below are stored in a hardware memory, and are loaded immediately after a power-on of the computer. In clock mode master even the last used sample rate is set. Directly after switching on the computer, a stable and predictable clock state is found at the HDSP MADI's outputs. This advanced technology completely eliminates disturbing noises and clock network problems during power-up or re-boot times. User's Guide Hammerfall DSP MADI © RME 17 Safe Mode Frequency verifies the current input signal against the settings in the record program. When deactivated a recording will always be allowed, even with non-valid input signals. SyncAlign ensures fully sample-aligned channels within MME multitrack software. This option should only be switched off in case the used software does not work at all with SyncAlign active. Input activates redundancy operation. If the current input signal fails, the other input will be used immediately, provided a valid signal is found there. TMS activates the transmission of Channel Status data and Track Marker information from the MADI input signal. Buffer Size The setting Buffer Size determines the latency between incoming and outgoing ASIO and GSIF data, as well as affecting system stability (see chapter 13). Under Windows MME this setting determines the DMA buffer size (see chapter 9.3). SyncCheck `SyncCheck' indicates for coaxial and optical MADI input whether there is a valid signal (`Lock' or `No Lock'), or a valid and synchronous signal (`Sync'). The `AutoSync Ref' display shows the input and frequency of the current sync source. MADI In Defines the input for MADI signal. 'Coaxial' relates to the BNC socket, 'Optical' to the optical input. MADI Out Defines the format of the MADI output signal. MADI can be a 56 or 64 channel signal. Sample rates higher than 48 kHz can be transmitted using the normal 48K Frame, or using a native 96K Frame at the card's output. Clock Mode The card can be configured to use its internal clock (Master), or the clock source pre-defined via Pref. Sync Ref (AutoSync). Pref. Sync Ref Used to pre-select the desired clock source. If the selected source isn't available the card will change to the other one. The currently used clock source and sample rate is displayed in the AutoSyncRef display. The automatic clock selection checks and changes between the clock sources MADI and word clock. System Clock Shows the current clock state of the HDSP system. The system is either Master (using its own clock) or Slave (AutoSync Ref). User's Guide Hammerfall DSP MADI © RME 18 10.2 Clock Modes - Synchronization AutoSync The HDSP MADI has been equipped with AutoSync, an automatic clock source selection, which adopts the first available input with a valid digital signal as the clock reference input. The input currently used as sync reference is shown in the AutoSync Ref status field, together with its sample frequency. AutoSync guarantees that normal record and record-while-play will always work correctly. In certain cases however, AutoSync may cause feedback in the digital carrier, so synchronization breaks down. To remedy this, switch the HDSP's clock mode over to 'Master'. Via Pref. Sync Ref (preferred synchronization reference) a preferred input can be defined. As long as the card sees a valid signal there, this input will be designated as the sync source, otherwise the other inputs will be scanned in turn. If none of the inputs are receiving a valid signal, the card automatically switches clock mode to `Master'. Thanks to its AutoSync technique and lightning fast PLLs, the HDSP is not only capable of handling standard frequencies, but also any sample rate between 25 and 200 kHz. Even the word clock input, most often used in varispeed operation, allows any frequency between 25 kHz and 200 kHz. The HDSP MADI's outstanding clock control allows for a synchronization of the output signal to the input signal not only at identical sample rates, but also at half, quarter, double and quad sample rates. A playback of 192 kHz can easily be synchronized via a 48 kHz clock source. SyncCheck If several digital devices are to be used simultaneously in a system, they not only have to operate with the same sample frequency but also be synchronous with each other. This is why digital systems always need a single device defined as `master', which sends the same clock signal to all the other (`slave') devices. RME's exclusive SyncCheck technology (first implemented in the Hammerfall) enables an easy to use check and display of the current clock status. The `SyncCheck' field indicates whether no signal (`No Lock'), a valid signal (`Lock') or a valid and synchronous signal (`Sync') is present at each of the digital clock source inputs. The `AutoSync Ref' display shows the current sync source and the measured frequency. In practice, SyncCheck provides the user with an easy way of checking whether all digital devices connected to the system are properly configured. With SyncCheck, finally anyone can master this common source of error, previously one of the most complex issues in the digital studio world. User's Guide Hammerfall DSP MADI © RME 19 11. Word Clock 11.1 Technical Description and Usage In the analog domain one can connect any device to another device, a synchronization is not necessary. Digital audio is different. It uses a clock, the sample frequency. The signal can only be processed and transmitted when all participating devices share the same clock. If not, the signal will suffer from wrong samples, distortion, crackle sounds and drop outs. AES/EBU, SPDIF, ADAT and MADI are self-clocking, an additional word clock connection in principle isn't necessary. But when using more than one device simultaneously problems are likely to happen. For example any self-clocking will not work in a loop cabling, when there is no 'master' (main clock) inside the loop. Additionally the clock of all participating devices has to be synchronous. This is often impossible with devices limited to playback, for example CD players, as these have no SPDIF input, thus can't use the self clocking technique as clock reference. In a digital studio synchronisation is maintained by connecting all devices to a central sync source. For example the mixing desk works as master and sends a reference signal, the word clock, to all other devices. Of course this will only work as long as all other devices are equipped with a word clock or sync input, thus being able to work as slave (some professional CD players indeed have a word clock input). Then all devices get the same clock and will work in every possible combination with each other. Remember that a digital system can only have one master! If the HDSP MADI's clock mode is set to 'Master', all other devices must be set to `Slave'. But word clock is not only the 'great problem solver', it also has some disadvantages. The word clock is based on a fraction of the really needed clock. For example SPDIF: 44.1 kHz word clock (a simple square wave signal) has to be multiplied by 256 inside the device using a special PLL (to about 11.2 MHz). This signal then replaces the one from the quartz crystal. Big disadvantage: because of the high multiplication factor the reconstructed clock will have great deviations called jitter. The jitter of a word clock is typically 15 times higher as when using a quartz based clock. The end of these problems should have been the so called Superclock, which uses 256 times the word clock frequency. This equals the internal quartz frequency, so no PLL for multiplying is needed and the clock can be used directly. But reality was different, the Superclock proved to be much more critical than word clock. A square wave signal of 11 MHz distributed to several devices - this simply means to fight with high frequency technology. Reflections, cable quality, capacitive loads - at 44.1 kHz these factors may be ignored, at 11 MHz they are the end of the clock network. Additionally it was found that a PLL not only generates jitter, but also also rejects disturbances. The slow PLL works like a filter for induced and modulated frequencies above several kHz. As the Superclock is used without any filtering such a kind of jitter and noise suppression is missing. No wonder Superclock did not become a commonly accepted standard. The actual end of these problems is offered by the SteadyClock technology of the HDSP MADI. Combining the advantages of modern and fastest digital technology with analog filter techniques, re-gaining a low jitter clock signal of 11 MHz from a slow word clock of 44.1 kHz is no problem anymore. Additionally, jitter on the input signal is highly rejected, so that even in real world usage the re-gained clock signal is of highest quality. This is especially true when extracting the word clock out of a MADI signal. Caused by the MADI format itself, such a signal will have around 80 (!) ns of jitter, which is reduced to about 1 (!) ns by SteadyClock. User's Guide Hammerfall DSP MADI © RME 20