Alesis 12 FireWire, 16 FireWire, 12, 16 manual Master Section

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A Tour of the MultiMix FireWire 2

Master Section

The Master Section is the heart of the mixer, where the channel inputs and aux returns all are mixed together and routed in various ways.

Main Mix Fader

The signals from all channels and aux sends—excluding those that are muted—are sent to the main mix. The MAIN MIX fader is the one you’ll use to control the overall level of those combined signals. This fader affects the levels of the signals sent to the MAIN MIX OUT, the DIGITAL OUT (12FXD and16FXD models only) and the 2-TRACK OUT. In its lowest position the signal is cut off completely, and in the uppermost position you get an additional 10dB of gain. In the 0 position the fader is at unity gain.

Alt 3/4 Fader

This fader controls the output of the Alt 3/4 bus.

2TK To Mix

When you press this switch, the signal coming in through the 2- TRACK IN gets routed to the MAIN MIX, joining whichever other signals are already part of the main mix. Used this way, the 2-TRACK IN effectively becomes another stereo channel (but without all the extras like pan, EQ, etc.).

The 2-TRACK IN signal combines both whatever is plugged into the 2-TRACK RCA jacks and also any audio coming back to the computer over Firewire.

Alt 3/4 To Mix

This switch adds the signal from the Alt 3/4 bus to the main mix bus.

Solo Mode

The SOLO MODE switch affects the signals of channels whose PFL / SOLO switches are engaged. When the SOLO MODE switch is in the up position, you’re in PFL, or pre-fader listen mode. This means that you’ll hear the signals of all soloed channels as they sound before they pass through their respective faders. You’ll need to be in PFL mode when you’re setting levels (see “Setting Channel Levels,” page 12. This mode is post-EQ.

When the SOLO MODE switch is engaged (in the down position), you are in SOLO mode. This means that you will hear the output of every soloed channel (after it passes through its fader, pan and EQ).

The purpose of seeing a soloed channel’s level on the LED meters is so that you can see the true level of that channel’s signal. For that reason, the HDPH / CTRL RM knob does not change the LED meters’ reading—it changes only the level at which you’re listening to the soloed channel.

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Contents Reference Manual Page Table Of Contents Table Of Contents Accessing the Asio control panel This page intentionally left blank Welcome IntroductionMultiMix FireWire Key Features About the MultiMix FireWireAll-In-One Mixer and Multichannel Computer Audio Interface Introduction Multichannel Firewire Ieee 1394a input and outputHow to Use This Manual Few Words for Beginners This page intentionally left blank Getting Started Hooking up the MultiMix FireWireSetting Levels Using Proper CablesGetting Started Line Inputs Channels 1 Tour of the MultiMix FireWirePatchbay Mic Inputs Channels 1Phone Jack Tour of the MultiMix FireWireLine Inputs Channels 5 Pdif Digital Output JackFader Channel StripsMute / Alt 3/4 Aux PAN or BALMaster Section Aux Ret a Level MIX SwitchALT 3/4 Switch 2TK Switch+48V Indicator Power IndicatorLED Meters Rear of the Mixer Effects Section Components Digital Effects ProcessorEffect Descriptions Chorus Digital Effects ProcessorPdif digital output to a digital recorder Simple Live SetupUsing Additional External Audio Sources Traditional MixingTraditional Mixing First-time connection instructions and driver installation Firewire RecordingPower-on sequence Firewire RecordingInstalling the optional applications Power-on/Power off orderChannels sent from the MultiMix to the computer Firewire inputs and outputsChannels returned from the computer to the MultiMix Sound setup under Windows Firewire Recording Disabling Windows System Sounds TK to MIX Leave UP Choosing the MultiMix as your audio device Choose the menu option Devices Device Setup…Firewire Recording Firewire Recording Firewire Recording Creating a new audio file Firewire Recording Firewire Recording Firewire Recording Working with the Asio control panel Accessing the Asio control panelSetting the mixer nickname Setting the master deviceAdjusting the sample rate Adjusting latency by changing the buffer sizeChoose the menu Options Audio… Firewire Recording Firewire Recording Assigning inputs to audio tracks Using the MultiMix FireWire with CoreAudio on the Macintosh Cause Troubleshooting non-FirewireEffects / AUX RET B Troubleshooting non-FirewireLED meters not working Computer does not see the MultiMix This page intentionally left blank Basic troubleshooting Troubleshooting FirewireAdvanced troubleshooting under Windows Troubleshooting Firewire Audio playback or recording stutters or drops out Audio playback or recording is at the wrong speedAudio echoes during recording This page intentionally left blank Input Channels SpecificationsMechanicals L x H SpecificationsBlock Diagrams Block Diagrams Term GlossaryContact Information Glossary Trademarks Alesis Contact Information

12 FireWire, 16 FireWire, 12, 16 specifications

The Alesis 12 FireWire and 16 FireWire mixers are innovative audio solutions designed for musicians, podcasters, and audio engineers looking to integrate seamless digital recording capabilities into their workflow. These mixers are equipped with FireWire technology, allowing for high-speed data transfer to computers, which is essential for real-time audio production and recording.

One of the standout features of the Alesis 12 FireWire mixer is its 12-channel configuration, allowing users to connect multiple audio sources, including microphones, instruments, and other audio devices. Each channel is equipped with a 3-band EQ, gain control, pan, and a selectable effect send, providing flexibility for sound shaping. The 16 FireWire model expands upon this, offering 16 channels to accommodate even larger setups for more complex audio routing and mixing scenarios.

Both models feature built-in FireWire interfaces that enable direct recording to a computer without the need for external converters. This integration simplifies the recording process and makes it easier for users to capture high-quality audio in a digital environment. The FireWire connection provides low latency, ensuring that performers can monitor their sound in real-time without noticeable delay.

In terms of build quality, the Alesis mixers are constructed with durability in mind. They feature robust controls, a solid chassis, and a user-friendly layout. This practicality makes them suitable for both studio and live environments, where reliability and ease of use are crucial.

In addition to the essential mixing capabilities, both models support various effects through their built-in processing. The 12 and 16 FireWire mixers come with several onboard effects such as reverb and delay, allowing users to enhance their audio without needing additional outboard gear.

Furthermore, these mixers support phantom power, enabling the use of condenser microphones that require additional power to operate. This feature is particularly advantageous for recording studios and live sound applications.

Overall, the Alesis 12 and 16 FireWire mixers are powerful tools that cater to the needs of modern audio professionals. Their integration of FireWire technology, extensive channel options, built-in effects processing, and user-friendly design make them an excellent choice for anyone looking to elevate their audio production capabilities. Whether you are working in a studio or performing live, these mixers deliver the quality and versatility needed to achieve outstanding sound.
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