Tascam FW-1884 owner manual Front Panel Control Descriptions

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2 – Controls And Indicators

2.3Front Panel Control Descriptions

1.Trim Pots 1-8– These are analog level controls for the input level of the Mic (XLR) and line inputs 1 –

8.Their function is the same regardless of the control surface mode selected. It’s important to note that the best signal-to-noise ratios are achieved by maximizing the level of analog inputs at the A/D converters. For the mic and line inputs of the FW-1884, the trim controls provide the means for optimizing these levels. For a complete discussion of this issue, please refer to Section section 4.3.3, “Setting Input Levels”

2.Phantom Power Indicator LEDs – These LEDs light to indicate +48 V phantom power to the XLR microphone inputs. Phantom power is switchable in two groups of four channels, channels 1-4 and chan- nels 5-8. The LEDs are unaffected by control mode selection.

3.Signal and OL LEDs 1-8– The signal LEDs light to indicate the presence of an audio signal on the corresponding analog input. The OL LEDs light to indicate a signal peaking at –2.5dBFS or higher by default. (This level is adjustable between 0.0 dBFS and 5.0 dBFS, in 0.5 dB increments, via the FW-1884’s control panel.) This indicates an overloaded input – reduce the input level to that channel until this light goes out. These LEDs indicate signal level to the eight analog inputs regardless of the control surface mode selected.

4.Channel Rotary Encoders – In COM- PUTER Control mode, these rotary encoders affect the application parameter currently selected by the Encoder keys. In most cases, the PAN and AUX 1-8Encoder keys correspond to the associated Pan and Aux Send parameters in the host application. Refer to the Application Notes for your software for details.

In MON MIX mode, these encoders function exclu- sively as PAN controls, and the associated PAN encoder key is always lit.

In MIDI CTL mode, these encoders send out continu- ous controller commands.

5.Channel REC LEDs – In COMPUTER Con- trol mode, these LEDs light or blink to indicate that the selected channel(s) are in record-ready or record status. Refer to the Application Notes for your software for details.

In MON MIX mode, these LEDs are used to show that channel’s PAN location. Rotating an encoder will cause the SEL and REC LEDs to shift left/right as you move.

In MIDI CTL mode these LEDs have no function.

6.Channel SEL Keys and LEDs – In COM- PUTER Control mode, these keys select the associated channel as active in the host application. The EQ con- trols will typically address the host application’s SELected channel. In most cases, holding the REC key and pressing one or more channel SEL keys will arm the host application’s associated channels for recording. Refer to the Application Notes for your software for details.

In MON MIX mode, pressing a channel’s SEL key causes the REC indicators to show the selected chan- nel’s pan position (indicator 1 is lit with pan position at full left, indicator 8 is lit at hard right, indicators 4 and 5 are lit together when panned center, etc.).

In MIDI CTL mode, these keys send out specific con- troller commands.

7.Channel SOLO keys – In COMPUTER Con- trol mode, these keys will solo their respective channels, while muting the audio on all other channels in the host application. Any number of channels can be soloed simultaneously. (Note that in COMPUTER Control mode, the operation of the SOLO function is dictated by the host application. For more information please refer to the Application notes for your DAW software application.)

In MON MIX mode, the SOLO keys function is iden- tical, but only affecting the FW-1884’s built-in moni- tor mixer. The SOLO mode (Pre-Fader Listen or Solo- in-Place) is selected by the PFL key. The PFL function applies only to the monitor mix SOLOs.

In MIDI CTL mode, these keys send out specific con- troller commands.

8.Channel MUTE keys – In COMPUTER Control mode, these keys will mute the audio of the selected channel. Any number of channels can be muted simultaneously.

In MON MIX mode, the MUTE keys function is identical, but only affecting the monitor mix.

In MIDI Control mode, these keys send out specific controller commands.

10 TASCAM FW-1884 Owner’s Manual

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Contents Professional Control Surface / FireWire Audio-MIDI Interface For Canada Important Safety PrecautionsImportant for U.K. Customers CE Marketing InformationImportant Safety Instructions Table of Contents Introduction FeaturesOverview System Requirements BoxSpecial notes for touch-faders Nomenclature Used In The ManualSoftware application notes Copyright, etcControls And Indicators Front Panel IllustrationRear Panel Illustration Front Panel Control Descriptions Shortcut Keys Controls And Indicators Controls And Indicators Controls And Indicators Controls And Indicators Rear Panel Control Descriptions Adat Lightpipe and 2-channel InputFireWire IEEE-1394 Connections Control Surface Modes Functional OverviewGlobal Controls Dedicated Modifier Keys Dedicated Computer ControlsMidi Routing Controls Clock Source Clock System ControlsExpected Sample Rate Monitoring and Metering Modes Hold Peak HoldControl Surface Modes and Operation Computer Control Mode General NotesNative Protocol Open the FW-1884 Control Panel Select the Settings tab Mackie Emulation ProtocolMidi Control Mode General Notes HUI Emulation ProtocolPowered on and connected, the display will look like this Customizing Midi Control MessagesProgramming Keys Programming Encoders Programming FadersHidden functions Monitor Mix Mode General NotesBanking Audio I/O and the Monitor MixerSetting Input Levels Monitoring SetupsSolo modes Select Host Computer Interfacing Control PanelHost Computer Interfacing Routing TAB Midi Programming TAB Audio Issues Troubleshooting and SupportControl surface issues Contacting Us Incorrect Surface ResponseAnalog I/O SpecificationsAppendices Digital I/OOverall System Specifications Misc. I/OSignal delay Midi Ctrl mode Dimensional drawing FW-1884 Hidden FunctionsAll control surface modes MON MIX mode FW-1884

FW-1884 specifications

The Tascam FW-1884 is a versatile audio interface and control surface that caters to the needs of both musicians and audio engineers. Designed for both studio and live applications, the FW-1884 combines impressive features with user-friendly functionalities, making it a staple in many audio production setups.

One of the standout characteristics of the Tascam FW-1884 is its integrated FireWire connectivity, allowing for high-speed data transfer between the device and a computer. This ensures low latency and reliable performance during recording and playback. Supporting a 24-bit/96 kHz audio resolution, it provides superior sound quality, ideal for professional recording environments.

The FW-1884 features eight analog inputs, equipped with high-quality microphone preamps. These preamps offer phantom power for condenser microphones, making it suitable for a wide range of recording scenarios, from vocals to instruments. With its gain control and LED metering, users can easily manage input levels, ensuring clarity and precision in recordings.

Additionally, the unit includes eight line outputs, allowing for flexible routing options. The ability to monitor mixes in real time is enhanced further by the built-in digital mixer, which provides users with EQ and dynamics processing, crucial for shaping the sound before it even hits the DAW.

In terms of control surface functionality, the FW-1884 boasts a comprehensive array of faders and knobs. With motorized faders and customizable buttons, this device offers tactile control over various DAWs such as Pro Tools, Logic Pro, and Cubase. Its MIDI capabilities also allow users to integrate the FW-1884 into their existing setups seamlessly, controlling virtual instruments and other MIDI devices.

Built with durability in mind, the FW-1884 features a robust chassis, ensuring it withstands the rigors of frequent transport for live performances or on-location recording. The device also includes a comprehensive software package, providing users with tools to get started instantly.

In conclusion, the Tascam FW-1884 stands out as a reliable and powerful audio interface and control surface. With its combination of high-quality sound, flexible routing options, extensive control features, and durable design, it caters to professionals and enthusiasts alike, making it a valuable asset in any audio production environment.
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