Alesis 12 FireWire, 16 FireWire, 12, 16 manual Firewire Recording

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5Firewire Recording

Important: download the drivers from http://www.alesis.com onto a folder on your desktop or insert the software CD into your computer’s CD drive BEFORE you plug your MultiMix into your computer for the first time.

First-time connection instructions and driver installation

Important: Follow these steps BEFORE you plug in your MultiMix FireWire mixer for the first time.

If your computer has access to the Internet, point your browser to the Support > Downloads section of http://www.alesis.com. It’s possible that updated drivers have been posted there since the time the software CD included with your MultiMix was printed.

Using either drivers from the website or the software CD, connect your MultiMix FireWire to your computer and turn the MultiMix FireWire on.

Windows

Under Windows XP, the “Found New Hardware” wizard will run. You will be prompted to install a series of drivers.

If you downloaded the drivers from the Internet, choose to install the drivers from a specific location when prompted, and point to the folder that contains the drivers.

If you are using the drivers from the CD, choose to install the drivers automatically when prompted.

For each of the several installations that occur, click “Continue Anyway” if Windows warns you that the drivers have not passed Microsoft Logo Certification.

Windows Logo Certification warning.

Ignore this warning by clicking “Continue Anyway.”

Your MultiMix Firewire mixer requires several sets of drivers to work properly. The installation process will automatically install these drivers one by one. Let the installer continue installing the various sets of drivers until the you see a message stating, “Your

These drivers include the two most popular standards for audio interfacing—WDM (the “Windows Driver Model” built by Microsoft) and ASIO (the “Audio Stream Input/Output” standard used by many audio software applications).

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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 IntroductionAbout the MultiMix FireWire MultiMix FireWire Key FeaturesAll-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 FireWireUsing Proper Cables Setting LevelsGetting 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 JackChannel Strips FaderMute / Alt 3/4 Aux PAN or BALMaster Section Aux Ret a Level MIX SwitchALT 3/4 Switch 2TK SwitchPower Indicator +48V IndicatorLED Meters Rear of the Mixer Digital Effects Processor Effects Section ComponentsEffect 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 orderFirewire inputs and outputs Channels sent from the MultiMix to the computerChannels 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 Troubleshooting Firewire Basic troubleshootingAdvanced troubleshooting under Windows Troubleshooting Firewire Audio playback or recording is at the wrong speed Audio playback or recording stutters or drops outAudio 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.