Monitor Mix Mode General Notes, Banking

4 – Control Surface Modes and Operation

4.2.5Banking

You can use the h BANK y keys to shift through the four banks of controls. As mentioned earlier, only the channel strip controls – faders, channel MUTE, SOLO and SEL keys, and channel encoders – are bankable. All other surface controls are unaffected by the banking commands.

For specific information on the FW-1884’s MIDI Con- trol Protocol, refer to section 5.1.3, “MIDI PRO- GRAMMING TAB” and the documentation supplied on the CD-ROM.

“Hidden” functions

These functions available in MIDI Control mode are not marked on the control surface.

SHIFT+Encoder

Fine (not coarse) control of MIDI controller output value

SHIFT+CTRL+F8

Reset the MIDI surface programming to default values and write it to FLASH memory

4.3Monitor Mix Mode – (General Notes)

The FW-1884 can be used as a stand-alone 18x2 mixer in MON MIX mode. The primary benefit of MON MIX mode is to provide a means of monitoring your audio inputs in a zero-latency environment. By using MON MIX mode to monitor the audio from your

inputs along with the audio return from your DAW application, it is possible to overdub tracks to your DAW software with none of the audio processing delays inherent in DAW applications.

4.3.1Audio I/O and the Monitor Mixer

In MON MIX mode, there are three banks which cor- respond to the three types of audio inputs available on the FW-1884. The three banks are labeled above the BANK switches as follows:

•ANLG – Controls the monitor levels of the eight analog inputs

•ADAT – Controls the monitor levels of the eight ADAT inputs

•D IN – Controls the monitor levels of the S/PDIF digital inputs

Note that in the third, or D IN bank, channels 3-8 are inactive.

It is important to understand that in MON MIX mode, the FW-1884’s channel strips are addressing the monitor levels of the FW-1884’s 18 inputs. While you will still hear the audio return from your DAW com- puter, and the FW-1884’s transport controls will still control your DAW’s transports, moving the faders will have no effect on your DAW’s internal (software) mixer.

Another important point to note is that, in MON MIX mode, the faders do not affect the levels the inputs sent to your DAW. The levels to the DAW inputs from ana- log inputs 1-8 (Bank 1) are controlled solely by their respective TRIM POTS. The eight ADAT inputs (Bank 2) and the two digital inputs (Bank 3) are passed to your DAW application at unity gain; their level must be regulated at the digital source.

28 TASCAM FW-1884 Owner’s Manual

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.