Intel Fireface 800 manual Operation and Usage, Playback

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12. Operation and Usage

12.1 Playback

The Fireface 800 can play back audio data in supported formats only (sample rate, bit resolu- tion). Otherwise an error message appears (for example at 22 kHz and 8 bit).

In the audio application being used, Fireface must be selected as output device. This can often be found in the Options, Preferences or Settings menus under Playback Device, Audio Devices, Audio etc.

We strongly recommend switching all system sounds off (via >Control Panel /Sounds<). Also Fireface should not be the Preferred Device for playback, as this could cause loss of synchroni- zation and unwanted noises. If you feel you cannot do without system sounds, you should con- sider buying a cheap Blaster clone and select this as Preferred Device in >Control Panel /Multimedia /Audio<.

The screenshot shows a typical configuration dia- log of a (stereo) wave editor. After selecting a device, audio data is sent to an analog or digital (ADAT / SPDIF) port, depending on which has been selected as play- back device.

Increasing the number and/or size of audio buff- ers may prevent the au- dio signal from breaking up, but also increases latency i.e. output is de- layed. For synchronized playback of audio and MIDI (or similar), be sure

to activate the checkbox ‘Get position from audio driver’.

The Fireface’s ADAT optical interfaces support sample rates of up to 96 kHz using a standard ADAT recorder. Single-channel data at this frequency requires two ADAT channels, achieved using the Sample Multiplexing technique. This reduces the number of available ADAT channels from 8 to 4. Under Windows MME, channels are routed to ADAT devices in double-speed mode as follows:

•Only the four stereo pairs of the device ADAT1 are available

•The channels of the device ADAT2 are no longer available

This kind of implementation allows a problem-free usage of both ADAT ports in Single and Dou- ble Speed, as the routing for ADAT1 doesn't change. However, the hardware spreads the data differently:

•Channel 1 is transmitted via channels 1 and 2, channel 2 via 3 and 4 etc.

•The ADAT2 port transmits channels 5 to 8

Please refer to the diagram in chapter 18.2. Routing for record and playback is identical.

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User's Guide Fireface 800 © RME

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Contents Most powerful FireWire audio interface ever TotalMix Bit / 192 kHz SyncAlignZLMSyncCheck SteadyClockInstallation and Operation Windows Installation and Operation Mac OSGeneral Stand-Alone Operation, Connections and TotalMix Technical Reference Important Safety Instructions InstallationMains Users Guide Fireface 800 RME General Package Contents Brief Description and CharacteristicsIntroduction System RequirementsConnectors and Front Panel First Usage QuickstartAccessories Quick StartPart Number Description Warranty AppendixTrademarks Users Guide Fireface 800 RME CE / FCC Compliance RoHSISO Users Guide Fireface 800 RME Installation and Operation Windows Hardware Installation Driver InstallationDriver and Firmware Desktop ComputerDriver Update Deinstalling the DriversFirmware Update Configuring the Fireface Settings dialog GeneralPhantom Power Buffer SizeInputs Limit BandwidthClock Mode Word Clock OutSyncCheck OptionsSettings dialog DDS Clock Modes Synchronization Application examplesAvailable Settings Limit BandwidthOperation and Usage PlaybackDVD-Playback AC-3/DTS AC-3 / DTSMultichannel Low Latency under MME Buffer Size Adjustment Fireface Analog 1+2 Fireface Analog 1+2 MMEMulti-Client and Multi-Channel using WDM Multi-client OperationASIO-Multiclient Digital Recording Operation under Asio Analog RecordingKnown Problems Common ProblemsOperation under Gsif Gigasampler Interface Windows 2000/XPUsing more than one Fireface DIGICheck Hotline Troubleshooting 8 Adat channels don’t seem to workInstallation Diagrams Channel Routing Asio at 96 kHzChannel Routing MME at 96 kHz Users Guide Fireface 800 RME Mac OS X Installation and Operation Driver Firmware Update Configuring the Fireface Level Level OutAutoSync Ref Settings dialog DDS Clock Modes Synchronization Limit Bandwidth Mac OS X FAQ Round about Driver InstallationMidi doesnt work Repairing Disk Permissions FireWire CompatibilitySupported Sample Rates Various InformationMulticard Operation Possible causes for a Fireface not workingDiagram Channel Routing at 96 kHz Users Guide Fireface 800 RME Stand-Alone Operation, Connections and TotalMix Stand-alone Operation Analog Inputs Line RearMicrophone / Line Front Reference DBFS @ HeadroomInstrument DriveSpeaker Emulation Headphones Analog OutputsLine Digital Connections AdatSpdif Special Characteristics of the Spdif Output MidiWord Clock Word Clock Input and OutputInput OutputTechnical Description and Usage Cabling and Termination OperationTotalMix Routing and Monitoring OverviewUsers Guide Fireface 800 RME User Interface Elements of a Channel Tour de TotalMixUsers Guide Fireface 800 RME Submix View Mute and SoloQuick Access Panel PresetsPreset Preset BanksMonitor Panel PreferencesEditing the Names Main MonitorStereo Pan Law Hotkeys Menu Options Level Meter TotalMix The Matrix Elements of the Matrix ViewTotalMix Super-Features Advantages of the MatrixAsio Direct Monitoring Windows only Selection and Group-based Operation Copy Routings to other ChannelsDelete Routings Recording a Subgroup Loopback Using external Effects Devices Mixing several input signals into one record channelRecording a Softwares playback MS Processing Midi Remote Control MappingElement Meaning in TotalMixSetup Preset 3 38 / 56 / #G Preset 5 3A / 58 / #ASimple Midi Control Monitor Main 3E / 62 / DLoopback Detection Stand-Alone Midi Control Mackie Control ProtocolMeaning in Fireface Element Meaning in Fireface Simple Midi ControlUsers Guide Fireface 800 RME Technical Reference Tech Info Technical Specifications AnalogDigital DA, Line Out 1-8, rearDA Stereo Monitor Output Phones Digital Inputs Adat OpticalTransfer Modes Resolution / Bits per Sample Windows only Digital OutputsTechnical Background Lock and SyncCheckLatency and Monitoring How much Zero is Zero?Oversampling Sample frequency kHz 44.1 88.2 176.4 192FireWire Audio Safety BufferCore Audios Safety Offset Number of Channels and Bus Load Limit Bandwidth 48 kHz 96 kHz 192 kHz FW-KanäleAnalog DS Signal Port DS Double SpeedQS Quad Speed Byte Mode Bit Type AES3-1992 IECNoise level in DS / QS Mode SteadyClockBlock Diagram Fireface Connector Pinouts TRS jacks of analog input / outputXLR jacks of analog inputs TRS Phones jack

Fireface 800 specifications

The Intel Fireface 800 is a powerful audio interface celebrated for its high-performance capabilities and versatility in both studio and live settings. Designed to cater to the needs of musicians, producers, and sound engineers, it stands out with its rich feature set and reliable technology.

One of the defining features of the Fireface 800 is its support for an impressive 26 input and 28 output channels. This extensive I/O configuration facilitates seamless integration with a wide variety of audio production setups, allowing users to record multiple instruments simultaneously or create complex routing scenarios. The unit also boasts top-notch analog and digital converters, ensuring pristine sound quality with a dynamic range that captures the nuances of any audio source.

In terms of connectivity, the Fireface 800 is equipped with both FireWire and USB ports, making it compatible with a range of computers and devices. The device utilizes the FireWire 800 protocol, which delivers higher data transfer rates compared to its predecessor. This efficient transfer capability is crucial for maintaining audio fidelity and reducing latency, making it an ideal choice for real-time monitoring and recording.

The Fireface 800 also features standalone operation capabilities, functioning independently of a computer when needed. This is particularly useful for live performances, where reliability and reduced setup complexity are essential. Users can easily connect microphones, instruments, and other equipment directly to the Fireface 800, making it a versatile tool for a variety of scenarios.

With its low-latency driver technology, the Fireface 800 ensures smooth performance even when handling demanding audio tasks. Its advanced ADAT and S/PDIF digital inputs and outputs provide further flexibility for connecting other gear, such as additional preamps and effects processors.

Another noteworthy characteristic of the Fireface 800 is its robust build quality. Designed for regular use in professional environments, the unit features a rugged metal chassis that can withstand the rigors of transport and daily use. This ensures longevity and consistent performance for audio professionals who depend on reliable equipment day in and day out.

In summary, the Intel Fireface 800 is a versatile and powerful audio interface that caters to a wide spectrum of audio production needs. With its extensive I/O capabilities, high-quality converters, reliable connectivity options, and robust design, it continues to be a popular choice among audio professionals striving for excellence in their work.
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