Intel Fireface 800 manual Mac OS X FAQ, Round about Driver Installation, Midi doesnt work

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23. Mac OS X FAQ

23.1 Round about Driver Installation

The driver with the file suffix gz provided by RME is a compressed TAR archive. TAR bundles multiple files and folders into one file, but does not save memory space nor download time. Both TAR and gz are supported natively by OS X, a double click on the file is all you need to do.

Older browsers do not recognize gz as an archive, loading the file as a document. This results in a cryptic looking text within the browser window. Downloading the file can be done via the right mouse key, Save Target as. Despite this procedure, some older browsers like Netscape 4.78 will not save the file correctly - the archive will be corrupted.

The driver consists of a package file (pkg), which contains various folders and files, similar to TAR. A double click will start the OS X installer. To save you the hassle of installing both audio and MIDI drivers separately, the Fireface driver contains an additional meta package (mpkg), that points to the single packages. Those single packages are not shown in the Finder, as they reside within the invisible folder '.contained_packages'. Only the mpkg is visible. Important: an installation can only be done with the complete folder. If only the mpkg is copied to a different place, it will not find the single driver packages!

The actual audio driver appears as a kernel extension file. The installer copies it to >System/ Library/ Extensions<. Its name is FirefaceAudioDriver.kext. It is visible in the Finder, allow- ing you to verify date and driver version. Yet, in fact this again is a folder containing subdirecto- ries and files.

Nonetheless, this 'driver file' can be removed by simply dragging it to the trash bin. This can be helpful in case a driver installation fails. An incomplete installation can currently (10.3.2) only be detected indirectly: The installation routine does not open a message window with a note about a restart of the computer. This indicates that the driver file was not copied and the driver was not installed!

Several users have observed that the installation routine occasionally stops and no longer works correctly. This can be fixed by removing the corresponding extension file prior to installa- tion. In some cases, also (or only) a repair of the disk permission will help.

We have also received reports saying the driver update could not be installed on the system disk - shown red crossed during the installation. Repairing permission may also help here. If not, we're sorry, but have to recommend to contact Apple. Our driver has no knowledge of fold- ers, disks etc., the installation is handled completely by the OS X installer.

23.2 MIDI doesn't work

In some cases MIDI does not work after the installation of the Fireface driver. To be precise, applications do not show an installed MIDI port. The reason for this is usually visible within the Audio MIDI Setup. It displays no RME MIDI device, or the device is greyed out and therefore inactive. Mostly, removing the greyed out device and searching for MIDI devices again will solve the problem. If this does not help, we recommend manual removal of the MIDI driver and rein- stallation of the complete driver. Otherwise repairing permissions may help.

The Fireface MIDI driver is a plugin. During installation it will be copied to >Library/ Audio/ MIDI Drivers<. It's name is Fireface MIDI.plugin. The file can be displayed in the Finder and also be removed by simply dragging it to the trash bin.

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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.