M-Audio manual About the ProFire 2626 FireWire Audio Interface

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ProFire 2626

User Guide

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About the ProFire 2626 FireWire Audio Interface

 

 

The ProFire 2626 interface is a super-highway of audio inputs and outputs for your computer. Like a highway, there are a certain number of “audio lanes” going to and from your computer—these “lanes” are referred to as streams. ProFire 2626 gets its name from the fact that there are 26 streams going into the computer and 26 streams returning from the computer. This means you can record up to 26 separate audio channels while simultaneously playing back an additional 26 audio channels if you use all of the analog and digital connections available on the interface.

ProFire 2626 has a variety of audio connections on its front and back panels. The back panel features eight analog combo jacks. These multi-purpose jacks accept either XLR or 1/4” balanced/unbalanced inputs and can be used to record microphone or line-level sources. The eight XLR inputs are routed to preamps featuring the same technology found in the award-winning M-Audio Octane with controls for gain, phantom power, and 20dB pad on the front panel.

Next to the combo jacks are eight 1/4” TRS line-level outputs. These balanced outputs can be used in a number of ways including monitoring the outputs of your audio software or sending tracks to an external mixer or effects processor. Since ProFire 2626 has eight analog outputs, it can also be used for surround mixing in formats up to 7.1 (seven satellites and one subwoofer). The Master Volume knob on the front of the interface can be configured to adjust the output level of any combination of output pairs (i.e., 1/2, 3/4, 5/6, or 7/8) for stereo mixes or up to all eight outputs simultaneously—perfect for surround mixing.

On the front panel of ProFire 2626, you’ll find two 1/4” (TS) instrument input jacks. You have the option of using these two jacks as inputs instead of using the first two combo jacks on the rear of the interface. These two jacks differ slightly from those on the rear of the interface since they are optimized for instrument-level signals and can be used to record the direct output of an electric guitar or bass. Like the rear panel XLR connectors, these inputs can also be routed to the preamps.

The front panel also features two 1/4” headphone jacks with an independent volume knob for each output. The first headphone output is sourced from audio routed to analog outputs 1/2 while the second headphone output is sourced from audio routed to analog outputs 3/4.

The remaining inputs and outputs on the interface are for digital signals. ProFire 2626 supports both coaxial (RCA) and optical S/PDIF formats as well as the multi-channel ADAT standard (including high resolution S/MUX II* and S/MUX IV* modes).

The Control Panel software allows users to scale the active I/O channels to preserve system resources, determine the format and number of digital input and output channels that will be available to your audio software, as well as set the order of the input ports as they appear in your software. The Control Panel also includes an 18-input, 16-output DSP mixer allowing you to create near-zero latency monitor mixes.

ProFire 2626 also includes MIDI and BNC Word Clock inputs and outputs for connecting external MIDI instruments and synchronizing multiple pieces of digital audio gear to the same clock.

*To use high resolution S/MUX II or S/MUX IV modes, the device connected to ProFire 2626 must also support S/MUX II or S/MUX IV operation.

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Contents User Guide ProFire User Guide Midi Minimum System Requirements IntroductionAbout the ProFire 2626 FireWire Audio Interface ProFire 2626 Features Front Panel Hardware Controls and ConnectorsAbout Phantom Power Rear Panel Architecture of ProFire ProFire About S/MUX II and S/MUX IV modes ProFire 2626 Operation at High Sample RatesMAC OS X 88.2/96 kHz Operation MAC OS X 176.4/192 kHz Operation Windows XP/Vista Users Windows XP/Vista 88.2/96 kHz OperationWindows XP/Vista 176.4/192 kHz Operation Mixer Control Panel ApplicationProFire User Guide Why are software returns disabled? Router Active Input Ports Output Source RoutingInput Channel Order Active Software ReturnsSettings About Clock Sample Rate ProFire User Guide Master Volume Knob Mixer Peak Meters Standalone ModeAdat D/A Mode Mode Additional Functions AboutFile HelpDigital Clocking Slave Adat a Scenario 1 ProFire 2626 as Clock MasterMaster Adat a Scenario 2 ProFire 2626 Slaved to an Optical InputMaster CD Player Scenario 3 ProFire 2626 Slaved to S/PDIF InputMidi Adat Connection Diagram and Example ScenariosProFire User Guide Hardware Input and Output Connections Example Scenario #1 Recording a DuoHardware Input Instrument Routing the DSP Mixer outputs Configuring the Mixer, Router, and Settings tabsSetting up the DSP Mixer Disabling unused input ports Using the DSP Mixer to create Cue MixesFront Left Front Right Example Scenario #2 Mixing in SurroundHardware Output Destination Speaker Configuring the Mixer, Router, and Settings tabsConfiguring and Using your DAW to create a Surround Mix Problem No sound TroubleshootingProblem No visual activity on Signal/Clip LED indicators ProFire User Guide Warranty Terms Warranty Registration Warranty9329-65015-00
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2626 specifications

The M-Audio 2626 is a versatile audio interface designed to cater to the needs of music producers, engineers, and podcasters. With its robust feature set, it provides an excellent solution for capturing high-quality audio in both studio and live environments. One of its main attributes is the capability of handling up to 26 inputs and 26 outputs, making it particularly suitable for complex recording sessions involving multiple microphones and instruments.

A standout feature of the M-Audio 2626 is its high-resolution audio conversion, supporting 24-bit depth and sample rates up to 192 kHz. This ensures that recordings maintain clarity and detail, which is essential for professional audio production. The unit employs advanced A/D and D/A conversion technologies, which contribute to its low noise levels and high dynamic range, ensuring your audio is free from distortion.

Connectivity is another strong point. The M-Audio 2626 features a combination of both analog and digital inputs, including eight XLR/TRS combo inputs with phantom power for condenser microphones. This flexibility allows users to integrate various sound sources easily. Additionally, the device includes multiple MIDI inputs and outputs, supporting the integration of MIDI controllers and other gear for comprehensive music production setups.

The interface is equipped with a user-friendly control panel, enabling straightforward navigation through its routing features and settings. Users can easily control levels, monitor audio through reliable headphone outputs, and make adjustments on-the-fly, which is crucial in dynamic recording environments.

In terms of compatibility, the M-Audio 2626 works seamlessly with major digital audio workstations (DAWs) across both Mac and PC platforms. Its class-compliant USB interface allows for quick connection without the need for additional drivers, facilitating an efficient workflow right out of the box.

The device’s rugged design is built to withstand the rigors of daily use, making it an ideal choice for both studio settings and on-the-road applications. Its compact form factor also ensures it won’t take up too much space in your gear bag.

Overall, the M-Audio 2626 stands out as a powerful audio interface that combines high-quality audio performance with a flexible and intuitive design. Whether you're a seasoned professional or an enthusiastic beginner, this interface provides the tools necessary to elevate your audio production experience.
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