Intel Fireface 800 manual Introduction, Package Contents, System Requirements

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1. Introduction

Thank you for choosing the Fireface 800. This unique audio system is capable of transferring analog and digital audio data directly to a computer from practically any device. The latest Plug and Play technology guarantees a simple installation, even for the inexperienced user. The numerous unique features and well thought-out configuration dialog puts the Fireface 800 at the very top of the range of computer-based audio interfaces.

The package contains drivers for Windows 2000 SP4, Windows XP, XP 64, Windows Vista, Windows Vista 64, Mac OS X and Mac OS X x86.

Our high-performance philosophy guarantees maximum system performance by executing as many functions as possible not in the driver (i.e. the CPU), but directly within the audio hard- ware.

2. Package Contents

Please check that your Fireface 800 package contains each of the following:

•RME Driver CD

•Cable IEEE1394a (FW400), 4 m (13 ft)

•Power cord

•Manual

•1 optical cable (TOSLINK), 2 m (6.6 ft)

3. System Requirements

•Windows 2000 SP4, XP, XP 64, Vista, Vista 64, Mac OS X (>10.3) PPC or Intel

•1 OHCI compatible FireWire Port 400 (1394a) or 800 (1394b)

•Pentium III 866 MHz or better, G4 Dual 867 or better

Note: Examples and detailed descriptions of suitable audio desktop systems can be found in

the Tech Info RME Reference PCs: Hardware recommendations. Information on compatibility and performance of notebooks/laptops is included in RMEs Tech Infos about notebooks, HDSP System – Notebook Basics and Tests. A report about incompatible FireWire 800 controllers is found in the Tech Info FireWire 800 Hardware – Compatibility Problems.

4. Brief Description and Characteristics

•Enhanced Mixed Mode: Analog, ADAT and SPDIF I/O simultaneously usable

•8 buffer sizes/latencies available: 1.0 / 1.5 / 2.1 / 3 / 6 / 12 / 17 / 23 ms

•All settings can be changed in real-time

•8 channels 96 kHz/24 bit Record/Playback via ADAT optical (S/MUX)

•Clock modes slave and master

•Automatic and intelligent master/slave clock control

•Unsurpassed Bitclock PLL (audio synchronization) in ADAT mode

•Word clock input and output

•TotalMix for latency-free submixes and perfect ASIO Direct Monitoring

•TotalMix: 1568 channel mixer with 42 bit internal resolution

•SyncAlign guarantees sample aligned and never swapping channels

•SyncCheck tests and reports the synchronization status of input signals

•1 x MIDI I/O, 16 channels high-speed MIDI

•1 x Hi-power headphone output

•DIGICheck DSP: Level meter in hardware, peak- and RMS calculation

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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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