New Session

4 - The PatchMix DSP Mixer

The Session

The current state of the PatchMix DSP mixer (fader settings, effects routings…every- thing!) can be saved as a Session. Whenever you create or modify a mixer setup, all you have to do is Save it to be able to recall it at a later time.

Before you begin using PatchMix DSP, you need to set it up to be compatible with the other software applications you may be running. The most important consideration is your system sample rate. PatchMix DSP and any applications or other digital gear you are using must be set to the same sample rate. PatchMix DSP can run at 44.1k, 48k, 88.2k, 96k, 176.4k or 192k, but its complete set of features are only available at 44.1kHz or 48kHz. See Chapter 6 - Using High Sample Rates for complete details.

Once the sample rate is set, you can only easily switch between 44.1k and 48k. You cannot switch between 44/48k and the higher rates of 88k/96k/176k/192k. This is because the number of mixer inputs and outputs changes signiﬁcantly at these high sample rates. In the case of such drastic sample rate changes, you must start a new session.

You can also set up an external sync source, thereby obtaining the sample rate from some other device or application. External sync can be obtained from the ADAT input, S/PDIF input or the Sync Daughter Card word clock. If the session is set at 44.1kHz or 48kHz and the external source is coming in at 96kHz (for example), the Sync Indicator will be extinguished (off), but PatchMix will attempt to receive the external data. The two units are NOT sample locked however, and you should correct this condition to avoid intermittent clicks in the audio. Always check for the presence of the LOCKED indicator whenever you are using a digital interface.

PatchMix DSP comes with several session templates to choose from so when you create a new session you can either create a “blank” session based around a designated sample rate, or select from a list of template starting points.

In a PatchMix DSP session the number of strips in the mixer is dynamically conﬁg- urable. This allows you to create only those strips you need up to a maximum number determined by available DSP resources and available inputs.

You create a new session by clicking the “New Session” button in the PatchMix DSP main Toolbar. The following dialog box appears.

Select a Template or new Session at the desired sample rate

Session Description

Add your own comment or note about the Session

Check this if you want to edit the New Session.

Important: When using any form of digital input, you MUST synchronize the Digital Audio System to the external digital device (S/PDIF/ADAT) or synchronize all devices using Word Clock.

28	Creative Professional