Intel Fireface 800 manual Digital Recording

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12.6 Digital Recording

Unlike analog soundcards which produce empty wave files (or noise) when no input signal is present, digital interfaces always need a valid input signal to start recording.

Taking this into account, RME have included three unique features in the Fireface 800: a com- prehensive I/O signal status display showing sample frequency, lock and sync status in the Settings dialog, status LEDs for each input, and the protective Check Input function.

If a 48 kHz signal is fed to the input and the application is set to 44.1 kHz, Check Input stops the system from recording. This prevents faulty takes, which often go unnoticed until later on in the production. Such tracks appear to have the wrong playback rate - the audio quality as such is not affected.

The sample frequency shown in the Settings dialog (see chapter 11.1, screenshot Settings) is useful as a quick display of the current configuration (the board itself and all connected external equipment). If no sample frequency is recognized, it will read ‘No Lock’.

This way, configuring any suitable audio application for digital recording is simple. After select- ing the required input, Fireface 800 displays the current sample frequency. This parameter can then be changed in the application’s audio attributes (or similar) dialog.

The screenshot on the right shows a typical dia- log used for changing basic parameters such as sample frequency and resolution in an audio application.

Any bit resolution can be selected, providing it is supported by both the audio hardware and the software. Even if the input signal is 24 bit, the application can still be set to record at 16-bit resolution. The lower 8 bits (and therefore any signals about 96dB below maximum level) are lost entirely. On the other hand, there is nothing to gain from recording a 16-bit signal at 24-bit resolution - this would only waste precious space on the hard disk.

It often makes sense to monitor the input signal or send it directly to the output. This can be done at zero latency using TotalMix (see chapter 31).

An automated control of real-time monitoring can be achieved by Steinberg’s ASIO protocol with our ASIO 2.0 drivers and all ASIO 2.0 compatible programs. When 'ASIO Direct Monitoring' has been switched on, the input signal is routed in real-time to the output whenever a recording is started (punch-in).

User's Guide Fireface 800 © RME

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Contents TotalMix Bit / 192 kHz SyncAlignZLMSyncCheck SteadyClock Most powerful FireWire audio interface everGeneral Installation and Operation WindowsInstallation and Operation Mac OS Stand-Alone Operation, Connections and TotalMix Technical Reference Mains Important Safety InstructionsInstallation Users Guide Fireface 800 RME General Brief Description and Characteristics Package ContentsIntroduction System RequirementsFirst Usage Quickstart Connectors and Front PanelPart Number Description AccessoriesQuick Start Trademarks WarrantyAppendix Users Guide Fireface 800 RME ISO CE / FCC ComplianceRoHS Users Guide Fireface 800 RME Installation and Operation Windows Driver Installation Hardware InstallationDriver and Firmware Desktop ComputerFirmware Update Driver UpdateDeinstalling the Drivers 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 UsageMultichannel DVD-Playback AC-3/DTSAC-3 / DTS Low Latency under MME Buffer Size Adjustment Fireface Analog 1+2 MME Fireface Analog 1+2ASIO-Multiclient Multi-Client and Multi-Channel using WDMMulti-client Operation 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 Midi doesnt work Mac OS X FAQRound about Driver Installation 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 @ HeadroomSpeaker Emulation InstrumentDrive Line HeadphonesAnalog Outputs Spdif Digital ConnectionsAdat 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 PanelStereo Pan Law Editing the NamesMain Monitor Hotkeys Menu Options Level Meter Elements of the Matrix View TotalMix The MatrixAsio Direct Monitoring Windows only TotalMix Super-FeaturesAdvantages of the Matrix Delete Routings Selection and Group-based OperationCopy Routings to other Channels Recording a Subgroup Loopback Recording a Softwares playback Using external Effects DevicesMixing several input signals into one record channel 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 Meaning in Fireface Stand-Alone Midi ControlMackie Control Protocol Simple Midi Control Element Meaning in FirefaceUsers Guide Fireface 800 RME Technical Reference Tech Info Analog Technical SpecificationsDA Stereo Monitor Output Phones DigitalDA, Line Out 1-8, rear 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 192Core Audios Safety Offset FireWire AudioSafety Buffer Limit Bandwidth 48 kHz 96 kHz 192 kHz FW-Kanäle Number of Channels and Bus LoadQS Quad Speed Analog DS Signal PortDS Double 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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