Setting Up for a Session

This section of the Digital 8•Bus Owner’s

Manual provides very application-specific descriptions of some common usages. Follow the checklist format to help ensure everything is set just right for your configuration.

As your skills and knowledge increase, try new techniques. Build a system that’s optimized for your specific application.

Listening Environment

In any serious recording or live audio situa- tion, the listening environment is one of the most important considerations. In a recording applica- tion, be sure the Digital 8•Bus is connected to excellent reference monitors, like the Mackie HR824’s. In addition, set up the system in an acoustically controlled and balanced environment. Avoid a control room with identical dimensions in any direction and set it up with a good mixture of absorption and reflection.

In a live-sound setting, place the console out in the house at a good visual and auditory vantage point. If you’re mixing in mono, it’s okay to sit in line with one of the speaker clusters. When mixing in stereo or surround, select the best location—typically called the “sweet spot”—to critically assess the entire mix. Eliminate guess work. Maximize efficiency.

Channel Configuration/Planning

This actually has a lot to do with how well any audio experience unfolds. If you know where you’re headed with track expectations and instru- mentation, you’ll be able to make better choices along the way. Plan; plan again; think about it; then, plan some more.

Use the Track Sheet (Ctrl+T) to plan your session before you begin recording. You’ll know more about how to get where you want to be.

Power-up Procedure

Awell-thought-out power-up procedure saves wear and tear on all your gear. This procedure helps minimize the opportunity for equipment damage while maximizing the chance of success. Refer to Figure 4-1 for a Fast Track Graphic representation of this procedure.

❏Amplification system off: power amps or powered monitors
❏Master Fader down
❏Switch Console Power on

•The D8B will create a Startup file with default settings if the User-Set Template has not yet been specified.

❏Open and load a snapshot or a session (optional)
Figure 4-1 Power-up Procedure

Follow this procedure for a safe and sure startup routine. Deliberate, well-thought-out procedures help eliminate uncomfortable pauses in a session. They make recording a more enjoyable experience.

Amp or Powered

Master L/R

 

 

Monitors Off

 

 

Fader Down

Console

Select A starting Snapshot or

 

 

MASTER

Open Your Master Template

 

L/R

Power On

 

dB

 

 

 

10

 

 

 

5

 

 

U

5

10

20

OR30

40

50

60

Amp or Powered

Monitors On

Set Sample

Connect InstrumentsClock and Microphones

Synth

OR

D8B Manual • Chapter 4 • page 96