3 – Connections : Digital connections

Digital I/O setup

After the connections have been made, the inputs and outputs can be set up for use.

Press the DIGITAL key (ROUTING with the ALT indi- cator lit) so that the SETUP screen appears:

Figure 3.3: DIGITAL SETUP screen

This screen allows the viewing and changing of the parameters relating to the two digital audio inputs and outputs as well as the three built-in TDIF con- nectors.

There are a number of on-screen DETAIL buttons which, when pressed, show a popup with details of the word length, sampling frequency data format, etc. of the appropriate input or output.

Digital inputs The word length (16BIT or 24BIT) and the input selected using the routing screens (XLR or RCA) are automatically determined and displayed.

Also, in the case of a “double-speed” input (that is,

88.2kHz or 96kHz), the display shows HISPEED, oth- erwise it shows NORMAL.

The DM-3200 includes a frequency converter, which is capable of taking an input frequency of 44.1, 48,

88.2or 96kHz (±6%) and converting it to the project frequency. Use the on-screen FS CONVERT button to turn the converter on and off.

NOTE

The signal from any input used with a sampling fre- quency converter cannot be used as a sync clock source (see “Clock setting” on page 44).

The 24bit Fix checkbox allows the input of 16-bit data at these connectors and removes any inconsistencies associated with spurious status information, fixing the word length at 24 bits.

Mute Defeat The Mute Defeat checkbox should normally be left unchecked. In the event of bad digi- tal audio data being received (out of range, or cor- rupt, etc.), the DM-3200 will usually mute the input to prevent possible damage to monitoring equipment. However, this automatic muting can be turned off with this checkbox. Some AES/EBU sources pro- duce data which does not quite conform to the AES/ EBU standards, and will cause the DM-3200 to reject these sources, and mute the input, even though such data is actually valid.

Note that an appropriate popup appears if invalid audio data is received, informing you of the type of error and the input at which the bad data is received.

The output channels are determined automatically (either as stereo or 2 x mono) according to the output routing (see “Output routing” on page 49, but the for- mat is set between AES/EBU and S/PDIF using the dial and ENTER key.

The TDIF inputs automatically detect sampling fre- quency, etc. but you may want to set the word length (16, 20 or 24 bits) using the dial and ENTER. Note that the three TDIF terminals can take different word lengths.

Stereo output Finally, the format of the output from the stereo buss when it is routed to a digital out- put can be decided here. The word length can be set at 24 bits, or reduced to 16 bits.

If the word length of the digital stereo buss is reduced to 16 bits, there are three options available: Truncate, Dither, and Noise Shape.

A full discussion of the principles involved here is outside the scope of this manual. Many of the books from Focal Press provide excellent background infor- mation on digital audio, timecode issues, etc.

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Tascam DM-3200 owner manual Digital I/O setup, Digital Setup screen
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DM-3200 specifications

The Tascam DM-3200 is a versatile digital mixing console renowned for its professional audio capabilities and comprehensive feature set. Launched as a part of Tascam’s acclaimed DM series, this console has become a favorite among recording engineers and musicians for its flexibility and high-quality sound processing.

One of the standout features of the DM-3200 is its ability to handle both analog and digital audio signals seamlessly. With 32 input channels, it provides ample connectivity options that are vital for modern studios. It supports both analog line-level signals and digital inputs via ADAT, AES/EBU, and S/PDIF, which allows for extensive routing and integration with various devices and systems.

The DM-3200 features an 8-bus architecture, which enables users to create complex mixes with ease. Each channel is equipped with a 4-band parametric EQ, offering precise control over the tonal balance of each audio source. The onboard effects processing includes virtual effects such as reverb, delay, and modulation, which enhances the overall sound quality and provides creative options for mixing and mastering.

Another notable aspect of the DM-3200 is its intuitive user interface. The console features an LCD display alongside faders, knobs, and buttons designed for quick and efficient operation. The layout facilitates smooth navigation through menus, making it user-friendly for both novice and experienced engineers.

In terms of recording and playback, the DM-3200 supports 24-bit/96 kHz audio resolution, ensuring high-fidelity sound for both tracking and mixing. This capability makes it suitable for post-production, live sound, and studio work, providing high-quality audio requisite in various applications.

Tascam has integrated advanced automation features into the DM-3200, allowing users to automate fader positions, effects parameters, and more. This feature is particularly beneficial during mixing sessions where precision and repeatability are essential.

Additionally, the DM-3200 is capable of digital multitrack recording and can interface seamlessly with DAWs via FireWire, enhancing its versatility in a hybrid studio environment. Whether you are recording a band, mixing a podcast, or producing a film score, the Tascam DM-3200 stands out as a powerful tool in professional audio production.
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