Intel Fireface 800 Operation under Gsif Gigasampler Interface, Known Problems, Windows 2000/XP

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13.2 Known Problems

If a computer does not provide sufficient CPU-power and/or sufficient PCI-bus transfer rates, then drop outs, crackling and noise will appear. We recommend to deactivate all PlugIns to verify that these are not the reason for such effects.

Additional hard disk controllers, both on-board and PCI based, aften violate the PCI specs. To achieve the highest throughput they hog the PCI bus, even in their default setting. Thus when working with low latencies heavy drop outs (clicks) are heard. Try to solve this problem by changing the default setting of the controller (for example by reducing the 'PCI Bus Utilization').

The above note on PCI is not an error in this manual: so far all FireWire controllers are con- nected to the PCI bus. Therefore the same problems known from PCI audio cards can occur with FireWire audio interfaces as well. Further information is found in chapter 37.3.

When using more than one Fireface 800, all Firefaces have to be in sync, see chapter 15. Else a periodicly repeated noise will be heared.

Another common source of trouble is incorrect synchronization. ASIO does not support asyn- chronous operation, which means that the input and output signals not only have to use the same sample frequency, but also have to be in sync. All devices connected to the Fireface 800 must be properly configured for Full Duplex operation. As long as SyncCheck (in the Settings dialog) only displays Lock instead of Sync, the devices have not been set up properly!

14. Operation under GSIF (Gigasampler Interface)

Windows 2000/XP

The GSIF interface of the Fireface 800 allows direct operation with Gigastudio, with up to 28 channels, 96 kHz and 24 bit. The new GSIF 2.0 is also supported with both audio and MIDI.

Gigastudio requires a lot of a computer’s CPU performance. Optimum performance is achieved with a stand-alone GSIF PC. The GSIF latency of the Fireface 800 can be set between 48 and 256 samples. Above 256, only the ASIO latency will rise. Such a setting can prevent perform- ance problems on slower machines when using ASIO and GSIF at the same time.

Please note that the W2k/XP driver fully supports multi-client operation, including the combina- tion MME/ASIO. So for example Cubase, Gigastudio and Sonar can be used simultaneously, provided each of these programs use audio channels exclusively on the Fireface 800. For ex- ample ASIO could use channels 1/2 and Gigastudio (with GSIF) channels 3/4 simultaneously, and so on.

Simultaneous operation of GSIF and ASIO requires to use different channels. For example, if Cubase uses tracks 1/2 these tracks can not be used by Gigastudio.

Common Problems

Please note that Gigastudio is running unexpectedly in the background (thus blocking its as- signed audio channels), as soon as the Gigastudio MIDI ports are used – even when Gigastu- dio itself hasn't been started. This causes a lot of confusion, as the driver seems to behave completely buggy, and the user does not recognize the simple reason for it – for example simul- taneous operation of ASIO and GSIF on the same channels.

If Gigastudio starts up properly, loads gig files too, but won't play at all even when using the virtual keyboard: Go to Hardware/Routing and select a valid MIDI input port. Note that blank is not valid, but <none> is.

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 System Requirements Package ContentsBrief Description and Characteristics IntroductionFirst 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 Desktop Computer Hardware InstallationDriver Installation Driver and FirmwareDeinstalling the Drivers Driver UpdateFirmware Update Settings dialog General Configuring the FirefaceLimit Bandwidth Phantom PowerBuffer Size InputsOptions Clock ModeWord Clock Out SyncCheckSettings 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 AsioWindows 2000/XP Known ProblemsCommon Problems Operation under Gsif Gigasampler InterfaceUsing 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 Various Information Repairing Disk PermissionsFireWire Compatibility Supported Sample RatesPossible 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 Reference DBFS @ Headroom Analog InputsLine Rear Microphone / Line FrontDrive InstrumentSpeaker Emulation Analog Outputs HeadphonesLine Adat Digital ConnectionsSpdif Midi Special Characteristics of the Spdif OutputOutput Word ClockWord Clock Input and Output InputTechnical 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 Meaning in TotalMix Midi Remote ControlMapping ElementSetup Monitor Main 3E / 62 / D Preset 3 38 / 56 / #GPreset 5 3A / 58 / #A Simple Midi ControlLoopback 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 BackgroundSample frequency kHz 44.1 88.2 176.4 192 Latency and MonitoringHow much Zero is Zero? OversamplingSafety 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 Phones jack Connector PinoutsTRS jacks of analog input / output XLR jacks of analog inputs

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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