Intel Fireface 800 manual First Usage Quickstart, Connectors and Front Panel

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5. First Usage - Quickstart

5.1 Connectors and Front Panel

The front of the Fireface 800 features an instrument input, microphone inputs and line inputs with gain pots, a stereo headphone output with volume pot, and several status LEDs.

MIDI/I indicates MIDI data received by the MIDI input.

MIDI/O indicates MIDI data sent to the MIDI output.

The Digital State LEDs (WC, SPDIF, ADAT, TCO) indicate a valid input signal separately for each digital input. Additionally, RME's exclusive SyncCheck indicates if one of these inputs is locked, but not synchro- nous to the others, in which case the LED will flash. See also chapter 11.3/22.3, Clock Modes - Synchronization.

The red HOST LED lights up when the Fireface 800 has been switched on, thus signalling the presence of operating voltage. At the same time it operates as error LED, in case the FireWire connection hasn't been initialised yet, or has been interrupted (error, cable not connected etc.).

Phones is a low impedance line output of highest quality. It provides a sufficient and undis- torted volume when used with headphones.

The rear panel of the Fireface 800 features eight analog inputs and outputs, the power socket, and all digital inputs and outputs:

ADAT1 I/O (TOSLINK)

ADAT2 I/O (TOSLINK): Can also be used as optical SPDIF input and output, if set up accord- ingly in the Settings dialog. The Settings dialog is started by clicking on the fire symbol in the Task Bar's system tray.

SPDIF I/O coaxial (RCA): Fully AES/EBU compatible by transformer-coupling and level adjust- ment. The Fireface 800 accepts the commonly used digital audio formats, SPDIF as well as AES/EBU.

Word Clock I/O (BNC): A push switch allows to activate internal termination (75 Ohms). When termination is activated the yellow LED besides the switch lights up.

IEC receptacle for mains power connection. The specially developed, internal hi-performance switch mode power supply makes the Fireface operate in the range of 100V to 240V AC. It is short-circuit-proof, has an integrated line-filter, is fully regulated against voltage fluctuations, and suppresses mains interference.

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 Windows Installation and Operation Mac OSGeneral Stand-Alone Operation, Connections and TotalMix Technical Reference Important Safety Instructions InstallationMains Users Guide Fireface 800 RME General Brief Description and Characteristics Package ContentsIntroduction System RequirementsFirst Usage Quickstart Connectors and Front PanelAccessories Quick StartPart Number Description Warranty AppendixTrademarks Users Guide Fireface 800 RME CE / FCC Compliance RoHSISO Users Guide Fireface 800 RME Installation and Operation Windows Driver Installation Hardware InstallationDriver and Firmware Desktop ComputerDriver Update Deinstalling the DriversFirmware Update 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 UsageDVD-Playback AC-3/DTS AC-3 / DTSMultichannel Low Latency under MME Buffer Size Adjustment Fireface Analog 1+2 MME Fireface Analog 1+2Multi-Client and Multi-Channel using WDM Multi-client OperationASIO-Multiclient 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 Mac OS X FAQ Round about Driver InstallationMidi doesnt work 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 @ HeadroomInstrument DriveSpeaker Emulation Headphones Analog OutputsLine Digital Connections AdatSpdif 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 PanelEditing the Names Main MonitorStereo Pan Law Hotkeys Menu Options Level Meter Elements of the Matrix View TotalMix The MatrixTotalMix 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 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 Stand-Alone Midi Control Mackie Control ProtocolMeaning in Fireface Simple Midi Control Element Meaning in FirefaceUsers Guide Fireface 800 RME Technical Reference Tech Info Analog Technical SpecificationsDigital DA, Line Out 1-8, rearDA Stereo Monitor Output Phones 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 192FireWire Audio Safety BufferCore Audios Safety Offset Limit Bandwidth 48 kHz 96 kHz 192 kHz FW-Kanäle Number of Channels and Bus LoadAnalog DS Signal Port DS Double SpeedQS Quad 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.