Intel Fireface 800 manual Using more than one Fireface

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15. Using more than one Fireface 800

The current driver supports up to three Fireface 800. All units have to be in sync, i.e. have to receive valid sync information (either via word clock or by using AutoSync and feeding synchro- nized signals).

•If one of the Firefaces is set to clock mode Master, all others have to be set to clock mode AutoSync, and have to be synced from the master, for example by feeding word clock. The clock modes of all units have to be set up correctly in the Fireface Settings dialog.

•If all units are fed with a synchronous clock, i.e. all units show Sync in their Settings dialog, all channels can be used at once. This is especially easy to handle under ASIO, as the ASIO driver presents all units as one.

When using all channels of more than one Fireface 800, a FireWire 800 interface is necessary. FireWire 400 will usually not suffice for operating more than one Fireface. When using only one Fireface 800, a FireWire 800 interface does not provide any performance advantages, especially does not help to achieve lower latency. But connecting a hard drive to the Fireface (hub func- tionality), FireWire 800 will immediately increase performance and reliablility.

•The cabling of FireWire 800 units is critical. In real world operation, it is not unusual that all Firefaces have to be connected directly to the 1394b ports of the computer, using cables of similar length. A long cable from the computer to the first Fireface, and a short one from the first to the second Fireface can cause problems.

More information about numbers of channels and bus load can be found in chapter 37.4.

The driver takes care of the numbering of all Firefaces, so that it doesn't change. The unit with the lowest serial number is always 'Fireface (1)'. Please note:

•If the Fireface (1) is switched off, Fireface (2) logically turns to the first and only Fireface. If Fireface (1) is switched on later, the numbering changes and the unit becomes Fireface (2) immediately.

•The driver has no control on the numbering of the WDM devices. Therefore it might happen that the WDM devices (2) are mapped to unit (1), especially when switching on more Fire- faces during a Windows session. A reboot with all Firefaces already operational should solve this problem.

Note: TotalMix is part of the hardware of each Fireface. Up to three mixers are available, but these are separated and can't interchange data. Therefore a global mixer for all units is not possible.

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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 SteadyClockGeneral 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 Package Contents Brief Description and CharacteristicsIntroduction System RequirementsConnectors and Front Panel First Usage QuickstartPart Number Description AccessoriesQuick Start Trademarks WarrantyAppendix Users Guide Fireface 800 RME ISO CE / FCC ComplianceRoHS Users Guide Fireface 800 RME Installation and Operation Windows Hardware Installation Driver InstallationDriver and Firmware Desktop ComputerFirmware Update Driver UpdateDeinstalling the Drivers 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 PlaybackMultichannel DVD-Playback AC-3/DTSAC-3 / DTS Low Latency under MME Buffer Size Adjustment Fireface Analog 1+2 Fireface Analog 1+2 MMEASIO-Multiclient Multi-Client and Multi-Channel using WDMMulti-client Operation 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 Midi doesnt work Mac OS X FAQRound about Driver Installation 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 @ HeadroomSpeaker Emulation InstrumentDrive Line HeadphonesAnalog Outputs Spdif Digital ConnectionsAdat 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 PreferencesStereo Pan Law Editing the NamesMain Monitor Hotkeys Menu Options Level Meter TotalMix The Matrix Elements of the Matrix ViewAsio 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 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 Meaning in Fireface Stand-Alone Midi ControlMackie Control Protocol Element Meaning in Fireface Simple Midi ControlUsers Guide Fireface 800 RME Technical Reference Tech Info Technical Specifications AnalogDA Stereo Monitor Output Phones DigitalDA, Line Out 1-8, rear 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 192Core Audios Safety Offset FireWire AudioSafety Buffer Number of Channels and Bus Load Limit Bandwidth 48 kHz 96 kHz 192 kHz FW-KanäleQS Quad Speed Analog DS Signal PortDS Double 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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