Intel Fireface 800 manual DVD-Playback AC-3/DTS, AC-3 / DTS, Multichannel

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12.2 DVD-Playback (AC-3/DTS)

AC-3 / DTS

When using popular DVD software players like WinDVD and PowerDVD, their audio data stream can be sent to any AC-3/DTS capable receiver using the Fireface's SPDIF output. For this to work, the WDM* SPDIF device of the Fireface 800 has to be selected in >Control Panel/ Sounds and Multimedia/ Audio<. Also check 'use preferred device only'. (*In some cases MME is not

supported)

The DVD software's audio properties now show the options 'SPDIF Out', 'Use SPDIF' or 'acti- vate SPDIF output'. When selecting these, the software will transfer the non-decoded digital multichannel data stream to the Fireface.

This 'SPDIF' signal sounds like chopped noise at highest level. Therefore the Fireface 800 automatically sets the non-audio bit within the digital data stream, to prevent most SPDIF re- ceivers from accepting the signal, and to prevent any attached equipment from being damaged.

Multichannel

PowerDVD and WinDVD can also operate as software decoder, sending a DVD's multichannel data stream directly to the analog outputs of the Fireface. All modes are supported, from 2 to 8 channels, at 16 bit resolution and up to 192 kHz sample rate. Up to 48 kHz, playback is also possible via the ADAT outputs of the Fireface.

For multichannel playback, a WDM streaming* device, or the correct** MME playback device of the Fireface 800 has to be selected in >Control Panel/ Sounds and Multimedia/ Audio<. Also check 'use preferred device only'. Additionally the loudspeaker setup, found under >Volume/ Speaker Settings/ Advanced< has to be changed from Stereo to 5.1 Surround.

PowerDVD's and WinDVD's audio properties now list several multichannel modes. If one of these is selected, the software sends the decoded analog multichannel data to the Fireface.

*The option Interleaved in the Settings dialog has to be activated.

**Certain MME playback devices of the Fireface support multichannel playback (Interleaved) with 2, 4, 6 and 8 chan- nels:

--Fireface Analog (1+2): Up to 192 kHz, playback on the analog outputs 1-8

--Fireface ADAT1 (1+2): Up to 48 kHz, playback on channels 13-20

--Fireface ADAT2 (1+2): Up to 48 kHz, playback on channels 21-28

Thanks to TotalMix, the software's playback channels can be routed to any hardware outputs. Therefore a playback at 96 kHz using the analog outputs can also be done via both ADAT ports. This also removes a limitation in some software (like PowerDVD 5), which always uses channel 1 as first channel of a multichannel playback.

The typical channel assignment for surround playback is:

1 - Left

2 - Right

3 - Center

4 - LFE (Low Frequency Effects)

5 - SL (Surround Left)

6 - SR (Surround Right)

Note 1: Selecting the Fireface to be used as system playback device is against our recommen- dations on system optimization, as professional cards are not specialized to play back system sounds, and shouldn't be disturbed by system events. To prevent this, be sure to re-assign the selection after usage, or to disable any system sounds (tab Sounds, scheme 'No audio').

Note 2: The DVD player will be synced backwards from the Fireface. This means when using AutoSync and/or word clock, the playback speed and pitch follows the incoming clock signal.

User's Guide Fireface 800 © RME

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Contents TotalMix Bit / 192 kHz SyncAlignZLMSyncCheck SteadyClock Most powerful FireWire audio interface everInstallation and Operation Mac OS Installation and Operation WindowsGeneral Stand-Alone Operation, Connections and TotalMix Technical Reference Installation Important Safety InstructionsMains Users Guide Fireface 800 RME General Brief Description and Characteristics Package ContentsIntroduction System RequirementsFirst Usage Quickstart Connectors and Front PanelQuick Start AccessoriesPart Number Description Appendix WarrantyTrademarks Users Guide Fireface 800 RME RoHS CE / FCC ComplianceISO Users Guide Fireface 800 RME Installation and Operation Windows Driver Installation Hardware InstallationDriver and Firmware Desktop ComputerDeinstalling the Drivers Driver UpdateFirmware Update Settings dialog General Configuring the FirefaceBuffer Size Phantom PowerInputs Limit BandwidthWord Clock Out Clock ModeSyncCheck OptionsSettings dialog DDS Application examples Clock Modes SynchronizationLimit Bandwidth Available SettingsPlayback Operation and UsageAC-3 / DTS DVD-Playback AC-3/DTSMultichannel Low Latency under MME Buffer Size Adjustment Fireface Analog 1+2 MME Fireface Analog 1+2Multi-client Operation Multi-Client and Multi-Channel using WDMASIO-Multiclient Digital Recording Analog Recording Operation under AsioCommon Problems Known ProblemsOperation under Gsif Gigasampler Interface Windows 2000/XPUsing more than one Fireface DIGICheck 8 Adat channels don’t seem to work Hotline TroubleshootingInstallation Channel Routing Asio at 96 kHz DiagramsChannel Routing MME at 96 kHz Users Guide Fireface 800 RME Mac OS X Installation and Operation Driver Firmware Update Configuring the Fireface Level Out LevelAutoSync Ref Settings dialog DDS Clock Modes Synchronization Limit Bandwidth Round about Driver Installation Mac OS X FAQMidi doesnt work FireWire Compatibility Repairing Disk PermissionsSupported Sample Rates Various InformationPossible causes for a Fireface not working Multicard OperationDiagram Channel Routing at 96 kHz Users Guide Fireface 800 RME Stand-Alone Operation, Connections and TotalMix Stand-alone Operation Line Rear Analog InputsMicrophone / Line Front Reference DBFS @ HeadroomDrive InstrumentSpeaker Emulation Analog Outputs HeadphonesLine Adat Digital ConnectionsSpdif Midi Special Characteristics of the Spdif OutputWord Clock Input and Output Word ClockInput OutputTechnical Description and Usage Operation Cabling and TerminationOverview TotalMix Routing and MonitoringUsers Guide Fireface 800 RME User Interface Tour de TotalMix Elements of a ChannelUsers Guide Fireface 800 RME Mute and Solo Submix ViewPresets Quick Access PanelPreset Banks PresetPreferences Monitor PanelMain Monitor Editing the NamesStereo Pan Law Hotkeys Menu Options Level Meter Elements of the Matrix View TotalMix The MatrixAdvantages of the Matrix TotalMix Super-FeaturesAsio Direct Monitoring Windows only Copy Routings to other Channels Selection and Group-based OperationDelete Routings Recording a Subgroup Loopback Mixing several input signals into one record channel Using external Effects DevicesRecording a Softwares playback MS Processing Mapping Midi Remote ControlElement Meaning in TotalMixSetup Preset 5 3A / 58 / #A Preset 3 38 / 56 / #GSimple Midi Control Monitor Main 3E / 62 / DLoopback Detection Mackie Control Protocol Stand-Alone Midi ControlMeaning in Fireface Simple Midi Control Element Meaning in FirefaceUsers Guide Fireface 800 RME Technical Reference Tech Info Analog Technical SpecificationsDA, Line Out 1-8, rear DigitalDA Stereo Monitor Output Phones Adat Optical Digital InputsDigital Outputs Transfer Modes Resolution / Bits per Sample Windows onlyLock and SyncCheck Technical BackgroundHow much Zero is Zero? Latency and MonitoringOversampling Sample frequency kHz 44.1 88.2 176.4 192Safety Buffer FireWire AudioCore Audios Safety Offset Limit Bandwidth 48 kHz 96 kHz 192 kHz FW-Kanäle Number of Channels and Bus LoadDS Double Speed Analog DS Signal PortQS Quad Speed Type AES3-1992 IEC Byte Mode BitSteadyClock Noise level in DS / QS ModeBlock Diagram Fireface TRS jacks of analog input / output Connector PinoutsXLR 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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