RME Fireface UCX Bedienungsanleitung

RME Hi-Fi-Anlage Fireface UCX

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User's Guide

The most powerful portable FireWire® and USB audio interface!

USB 2.0 / FireWire 400 Digital I/O System

8 + 8 + 2 Channels Analog / ADAT / SPDIF Interface

24 Bit / 192 kHz Digital Audio

36 x 18 Matrix Router

2 x MIDI I/O

Stand-Alone Operation

Class Compliant Operation

MIDI Remote Control

™

24 Bit / 192 kHz 9

™

™ ™

™

2 User's Guide Fireface UCX

Important Safety Instructions ..................................6

General

1 Introduction ...............................................................8

2 Package Contents .....................................................8

3 System Requirements ..............................................8

4 Brief Description and Characteristics.....................8

5 First Usage - Quick Start

5.1 Connectors – Controls - Display .............................9

5.2 Quick Start ............................................................10

Installation and Operation - Windows

6 Hardware Installation..............................................12

7 Driver and Firmware

7.1 Driver Installation .................................................12

7.2 Driver Update .......................................................13

7.3 De-installing the Drivers.......................................13

7.4 Firmware Update..................................................13

8 Configuring the Fireface

8.1 Settings Dialog – General ....................................14

8.2 Settings Dialog – Pitch .........................................16

9 Operation and Usage

9.1 Playback...............................................................17

9.2 DVD Playback (AC-3 / DTS) ................................18

9.3 Notes on WDM.....................................................19

9.4 Channel Count under WDM.................................20

9.5 Multi-client Operation ...........................................20

9.6 Analog Recording.................................................21

9.7 Digital Recording..................................................21

9.8 Clock Modes - Synchronization ...........................22

10 Operation under ASIO

10.1 General ................................................................23

10.2 Channel Count under ASIO .................................23

10.3 Known Problems ..................................................24

11 Using more than one Fireface UCX.......................24

12 DIGICheck Windows ...............................................25

13 Hotline – Troubleshooting......................................26

User's Guide Fireface UCX 3

Installation and Operation - Mac OS X

14 Hardware Installation ............................................. 28

15 Driver and Firmware

15.1 Driver Installation ................................................. 28

15.2 Driver Update....................................................... 29

15.3 Firmware Update ................................................. 29

16 Configuring the Fireface

16.1 Settings Dialog..................................................... 30

16.2 Clock Modes - Synchronization ........................... 32

17 Mac OS X FAQ

17.1 Round about Driver Installation ........................... 33

17.2 MIDI doesn't work ................................................ 33

17.3 Repairing Disk Permissions................................. 33

17.4 Supported Sample Rates..................................... 33

17.5 Channel Count under Core Audio ....................... 34

17.6 Various Information.............................................. 34

18 Using more than one Fireface ............................... 35

19 DIGICheck Mac........................................................ 35

20 Hotline – Troubleshooting ..................................... 36

Inputs and Outputs

21 Analog Inputs

21.1 Line Rear ............................................................. 38

21.2 Microphone / Line Front....................................... 38

21.3 Instrument / LineFront.......................................... 39

22 Analog Outputs

22.1 Line ...................................................................... 40

22.2 Headphones / Line Out........................................40

23 Digital Connections

23.1 ADAT ...................................................................41

23.2 SPDIF ..................................................................41

23.3 MIDI .....................................................................42

24 Word Clock

24.1 Word Clock Input and Output .............................. 43

24.2 Technical Description and Background............... 44

24.3 Cables and Termination....................................... 45

24.4 General Operation ............................................... 45

Stand-Alone Operation

25 Operation and Usage

25.1 General ................................................................ 48

25.2 Front Panel Operation .........................................48

25.3 Class Compliant Mode......................................... 49

26 Examples

26.1 8-Channel AD/DA Converter ............................... 50

26.2 2-Channel Mic Preamp........................................ 50

26.3 Monitor Mixer ....................................................... 50

26.4 Digital Format Converter...................................... 50

26.5 Analog/Digital Routing Matrix .............................. 50

26.6 External Interface for iPad ................................... 50

4 User's Guide Fireface UCX

TotalMix FX

27 Routing and Monitoring

27.1 Overview ..............................................................52

27.2 The User Interface ...............................................54

27.3 The Channel.........................................................55

27.3.1 Settings ........................................................57

27.3.2 Equalizer ......................................................58

27.3.3 Dynamics .....................................................60

27.4 Section Control Room..........................................61

27.5 The Control Strip..................................................62

27.5.1 View Options ................................................63

27.5.2 Snapshots - Groups .....................................64

27.5.3 Channel Layout – Layout Presets................64

27.5.4 Scroll Location Markers ...............................66

27.6 Reverb and Echo .................................................67

27.7 Preferences..........................................................70

27.8 Settings ................................................................71

27.8.1 Mixer Page ...................................................71

27.8.2 MIDI Page ....................................................72

27.8.3 OSC Page ....................................................73

27.9 Hotkeys and Usage..............................................74

27.10 Menu Options.......................................................75

28 The Matrix

28.1 Overview ..............................................................76

28.2 Elements of the Matrix View ................................76

28.3 Usage...................................................................76

29 Tips and Tricks

29.1 ASIO Direct Monitoring (Windows) ......................77

29.2 Copy a Submix.....................................................77

29.3 Delete a Submix...................................................77

29.4 Doubling the Output Signal ..................................77

29.5 Recording a Submix - Loopback..........................78

29.6 MS Processing .....................................................79

30 MIDI Remote Control

30.1 Overview ..............................................................80

30.2 Mapping ...............................................................80

30.3 Setup....................................................................81

30.4 Operation .............................................................81

30.5 MIDI Control .........................................................82

30.6 Stand-Alone MIDI Control ....................................83

30.7 Loopback Detection .............................................84

30.8 OSC (Open Sound Control) .................................85

User's Guide Fireface UCX 5

Technical Reference

31 Technical Specifications

31.1 Analog.................................................................. 88

31.2 MIDI .....................................................................89

31.3 Digital................................................................... 89

31.4 Digital Inputs ........................................................ 89

31.5 Digital Outputs ..................................................... 90

31.6 General ................................................................ 90

32 Technical Background

32.1 Lock and SyncCheck ........................................... 91

32.2 Latency and Monitoring ....................................... 92

32.3 USB Audio ........................................................... 93

32.4 FireWire Audio .....................................................94

32.5 DS – Double Speed ............................................. 95

32.6 QS – Quad Speed ............................................... 95

32.7 Noise Level in DS / QS Mode .............................. 96

32.8 SteadyClock......................................................... 96

33 Diagrams

33.1 Block Diagram Fireface UCX............................... 97

33.2 Connector Pinouts ............................................... 98

Miscellaneous

34 Accessories........................................................... 100

35 Warranty.................................................................100

36 Appendix................................................................ 101

37 Declaration of Conformity....................................102

6 User's Guide Fireface UCX

Important Safety Instructions

ATTENTION! Do not open chassis

No user serviceable parts inside. Refer service to qualified service personnel.

To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock do not expose this device to rain or

moisture. Prevent moisture and water from entering the device. Never leave

a pot with liquid on top of the device. Do not use this product near water, i. e.

swimming pool, bathtub or wet basement. Danger of condensation inside –

don't turn on before the device has reached room temperature.

Installation

Surface may become hot during operation – ensure sufficient ventilation.

Avoid direct sun light and do not place it near other sources of heat, like ra-

diators or stoves. When mounting in a rack, leave some space between this

device and others for ventilation.

Unauthorized servicing/repair voids warranty. Only use accessories

specified by the manufacturer.

Read the manual completely. It includes all information necessary

to use and operate this device.

User's Guide Fireface UCX 7

User's Guide

General

8 User's Guide Fireface UCX

1. Introduction

Thank you for choosing the Fireface UCX. 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 UCX at

the very top of the range of computer-based audio interfaces.

The package contains drivers for Windows XP / Vista / 7 and Mac OS X x86 (Intel).

Our high-performance philosophy guarantees maximum system performance by executing as

many functions as possible not in the driver (i.e. the CPU), but within the audio hardware.

2. Package Contents

• Fireface UCX

• Cable USB 2.0, 1.8 m (6 ft)

• MIDI breakout cable

• Power supply

• Manual

• RME Driver CD

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

3. System Requirements

• Windows XP SP2 or up, Intel Mac OS X (10.5 or up)

• 1 x OHCI compatible FireWire Port 400 (1394a) , FireWire 800 (1394b) via cable adapter

• 1 x USB 2.0 port

• For USB: Computer with at least Pentium Core 2 Duo CPU

4. Brief Description and Characteristics

• All settings can be changed in real-time

• Buffer sizes/latencies from 48 up to 8192 samples selectable

• 4 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

• SteadyClock: Jitter-immune, super-stable digital clock

• DDS technology for free setting of the sample rate

• SyncAlign guarantees sample aligned and never swapping channels

• SyncCheck tests and reports the synchronization status of input signals

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

• TotalMix: 648 channel mixer with 46 bit internal resolution

• TotalMix FX: 3-band EQ, Low Cut, Reverb, Echo, Compressor, Expander, Auto Level

• 2 x MIDI I/O, 32 channels high-speed Low-Jitter MIDI

• 1 x Hi-power headphone output

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

User's Guide Fireface UCX 9

5. First Usage – Quick Start

5.1 Connectors – Controls – Display

The front of the Fireface UCX features instrument, line and microphone inputs, a stereo

line/headphone output, a rotary encoder with push functionality, a 7 segment display, and sev-

eral status and MIDI LEDs.

The Neutrik combo jacks of the

Mic/Line inputs can be used via

XLR and 1/4" TRS plugs. Both

inputs display overload (CLIP),

signal presence (SIG) and phan-

tom power (48V) via green, red

and yellow LEDs.

Inputs 3/4, INST/LINE, accept both a balanced line signal as well as an unbalanced instrument

signal via 1/4" TRS plug.

The rotary encoder serves to set the input and output levels directly at the unit. This is not only

useful in stand-alone operation, but also when adjusting the monitor volume. Pushing the knob

changes the encoder from CHANNEL to LEVEL mode and back. Pushing the knob repeatedly

gives quick access to PH (Phones) for a fast access of the main volume control.

The State LEDs (WC, SPDIF, ADAT) 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 synchronous to the others, in which case the LED will flash. See also chapter 9.8/16.2,

Clock Modes - Synchronization.

The red HOST LED lights up when the

Fireface UCX has been switched on. It

operates as error LED, in case the USB or

FireWire connection hasn't been initialised

yet, or has been interrupted (error, cable not

connected etc.).

The yellow MIDI LEDs indicate MIDI data

received or sent, separately for both inputs

and outputs.

Phones is a low impedance line output of highest quality. It provides a sufficient and undis-

torted volume even when used with headphones.

The rear panel of the Fireface UCX features four analog inputs, six analog outputs, the power

socket, and all digital inputs and outputs.

SPDIF I/O coaxial (RCA): AES/EBU compatible. The Fireface UCX accepts the commonly used

digital audio formats, SPDIF as well as AES/EBU.

ADAT I/O (TOSLINK):

The unit automatically

detects SPDIF or ADAT

input signals. The optical

output can operate as

ADAT or SPDIF output,

depending on the current

setting in the Settings

dialog.

10 User's Guide Fireface UCX

Word Clock I/O (BNC): Termination for the Word Clock input (75 Ohms) can be activated in the

Settings dialog.

MIDI I/O: Provides two MIDI inputs and outputs via the included breakout cable.

Remote. Mini-DIN. Connector for the optional remote controls with Volume, Store, Dim and

Recall functions.

USB 2.0: USB socket for connection to the computer.

FW 400. 6-pin FireWire socket for connection to the computer.

POWER (switch): Turns the Fireface UCX on and off.

Socket for power connection. The

included 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.

5.2 Quick Start

After the driver installation (chapter 7 / 15) connect the TRS jacks or the XLR inputs with the

analog signal source. The input sensitivity of the rear inputs can be changed in TotalMix (Input

Channel Settings, Level), assuring the highest signal to noise ratio will be achieved. Also try to

achieve an optimum input level by adjusting the source itself. Raise the source’s output level

until the peak level meters in TotalMix reach about –3 dB.

The analog line inputs of the Fireface UCX can be used with +4 dBu and -10 dBV signals. The

electronic input stage can handle balanced (XLR, TRS jacks) and unbalanced (TS jacks) input

signals correctly.

The front's inputs signal level can be optimized using the Fireface's rotary encoder. A Signal

LED and a Clip LED help to find the correct gain value.

The Fireface's digital outputs provide SPDIF (AES/EBU compatible) and ADAT optical signals

at the corresponding ports.

On the analog playback side (the DA side), a coarse adjustment of the analog output level at

the rear jacks is available in TotalMix (Output Channel Settings, Level).

The output level of channels 1 to 8 is also available on the front via the rotary encoder. Output

7/8, called Phones, is a very low impedance type, which can also be used to connect head-

phones.

The Fireface UCX remembers all settings, and loads these automatically when switched on.

Additionally the current state can be stored in and loaded from 6 different memory slots, called

Setups. With this, the Fireface UCX can be used stand-alone after setting it up accordingly,

replacing lots of dedicated devices (see chapter 26).

User's Guide Fireface UCX 11

User's Guide

Installation and Operation – Windows

12 User's Guide Fireface UCX

6. Hardware Installation

USB

• Use the power cord to connect the Fireface with any suitable power outlet.

• Connect computer and Fireface using the supplied USB cable.

• Power on computer and UCX.

Chapter 32.3 explains how to find the ideal USB port.

FireWire

• Use the power cord to connect the Fireface with any suitable power outlet.

• Connect computer and Fireface using a 6-pin FireWire cable (IEEE1394a). In case your

computer does not have any FireWire port, PCI, PCI Express, CardBus and ExpressCard

cards can be used to add them. In case your notebook does not have a 6-pin jack, or did

not include a 6-pin to 4-pin adapter: such adapters are available in your local computer

store.

• Power on the computer. Switch on the Fireface when Windows shows the desktop.

Note: FireWire and USB can be connected at the same time, but it is not recommended. Upon

start of the computer the port that becomes active first will be used. With no port active the unit

searches on both USB and FireWire until it finds an active one.

7. Driver and Firmware

7.1 Driver Installation

After the Fireface UCX has been switched on (see 6. Hardware Installation), the hardware as-

sistant finds a Fireface UCX. Insert the RME Driver CD into your CD-ROM drive, and follow

further instructions which appear on your computer screen. The driver files are located in the

directory \Fireface_USB and \Fireface_FW on the RME Driver CD.

Windows now installs the driver of the Fireface UCX and

registers it as a new audio device in the system. After a

reboot, the symbols of TotalMix and Settings dialog will

appear in the task bar.

In case the Hardware Wizard does not show up automatically after installation of the card,

do not attempt to install the drivers manually! An installation of drivers for non-recognized

hardware will cause a blue screen when booting Windows!

In Windows 7 Microsoft removed the automatic start of the Driver Software Update dialog. The-

refore this dialog has to be started manually after the failed driver installation. Hit the Windows

key, type 'Device Manager', start the Device Manager by selecting it from the list and hit Enter.

The device is shown with a yellow warning symbol. Usually it is already found in the correct

category, Sound, Video and Game Controller (Plug & Play detects a multimedia device). Right

click on the device and select 'Update Driver Software' from the context menu.

The dialog Update Driver Software appears. Now follow the instructions given below.

Possible reasons why a Fireface is not found automatically:

• The USB or FireWire port is not active in the system (check in Device Manager)

• The USB or FireWire cable is not, or not correctly inserted into the socket

User's Guide Fireface UCX 13

7.2 Driver Update

When facing problems with the automatic driver update, the user-driven way of driver installa-

tion will work.

Under >Control Panel /System /Device Manager /Sound, Video and Game Controllers /RME

Fireface UCX /Properties /Driver< you'll find the 'Update Driver' button.

XP: Select 'Install from a list or speciﬁc location (advanced)', click 'Next', select 'Don't

search I will choose the driver to install', click 'Next', then 'Have Disk'. Now point to the

driver update's directory.

Vista/7: Select 'Browse my computer for driver software', then 'Let me pick from a list of

device drivers from my computer', then 'Have Disk'. Now point to the driver update's direc-

tory.

This method also allows for the installation of older drivers than the currently installed ones.

7.3 De-installing the Drivers

A de-installation of the Fireface's driver files is not necessary – and not supported by Windows

anyway. Thanks to full Plug & Play support, the driver files will not be loaded after the hardware

has been removed. If desired these files can then be deleted manually.

Unfortunately Windows Plug & Play methods do not cover the additional autorun entries of To-

talMix, the Settings dialog, and the registration of the ASIO driver. These entries can be re-

moved from the registry by a software de-installation request. This request can be found (like all

de-installation entries) in Control Panel, Software. Click on the entry 'RME Fireface'.

7.4 Firmware Update

The Flash Update Tool updates the firmware of the Fireface UCX to the latest version. It re-

quires an already installed driver.

Start the program fut_usb.exe. The Flash

Update Tool displays the current revision of

the Fireface firmware, and whether it needs

an update or not. If so, then simply press the

'Update' button. A progress bar will indicate

when the flash process is finished (Verify Ok).

After the update the unit needs to be reset.

This is done by powering down the Fireface

for a few seconds.

Attention: the Fireface should not be switched

off for less than 5 seconds, because Windows

completely unloads the driver, which takes

some time to finish.

A reboot of the computer is not necessary.

When the update unexpectedly fails (status: failure), the unit's Safety BIOS will be used from

the next boot on, the unit stays fully functional. The flash process should then be tried again.

14 User's Guide Fireface UCX

8. Conﬁguring the Fireface

8.1 Settings dialog - General

Configuration of the Fireface UCX is done via its own settings dialog. The panel 'Settings' can

be opened:

• by clicking on the fire symbol in the Task Bar's system tray

The mixer of the Fireface UCX, TotalMix, can be opened:

• by clicking on the double arrow symbol in the Task Bar's system tray

The hardware of the Fireface UCX offers a number of helpful, well thought-of practical functions

and options which affect how the card operates - it can be configured to suit many different

requirements.

The following is available in the

'Settings' dialog:

• Latency

• Operation of the DSP

• Configuration of the digital I/Os

• Current sample rate

• Synchronization behaviour

• State of input and output

Any changes made in the Settings

dialog are applied immediately -

confirmation (e.g. by clicking on OK

or exiting the dialog) is not required.

However, settings should not be

changed during playback or record if

it can be avoided, as this can cause

unwanted noises.

Also, please note that even in 'Stop'

mode, several programs keep the

recording and playback devices

open, which means that any new

settings might not be applied imme-

diately.

The tab About includes information

about the current driver and firmware

version of the Fireface UCX.

Buffer Size

The setting determines the latency between incoming and outgoing ASIO and WDM Buffer Size

data, as well as affecting system stability (see chapter 10.1).

Errors does not refer to buffer errors, but USB and FireWire transmission errors. The display

will be reset on any start of a playback/record. More information can be found in chapter 32.3 /

33.4.

User's Guide Fireface UCX 15

Output Format

Word – Single Speed

The word clock output signal usually equals the current sample rate. Selecting Single Speed

causes the output signal to always stay within the range of 32 kHz to 48 kHz. So at 96 kHz and

192 kHz sample rate, the output word clock is 48 kHz.

Optical

The optical TOSLINK output can operate as ADAT or SPDIF output. The Channel Status is

fixed to Consumer state.

Note: The optical input detects the incoming format automatically, see Input Status.

SPDIF

The coaxial SPDIF output can have the Channel Status Consumer or Professional. For further

details please refer to chapter 23.2.

Options

DSP – EQ+D for Record

Switches EQ and Dynamics of all input channels into the recording path. In case Loopback has

been activated the EQ and Dynamics of the Output channel are within the recording path. See

also chapter 29.5.

SPDIF In - TMS

TMS activates the transmission of Channel Status data and Track Marker information from the

SPDIF input signal.

Word In - Termination

Checking this option terminates the word clock input internally with 75 Ohms.

Clock Mode

Sample Rate

Sets the currently used sample rate. Offers a central and comfortable way of configuring the

sample rate of all WDM devices to the same value, as since Vista the audio software is no

longer allowed to set the sample rate. However, an ASIO program can still set the sample rate

by itself.

During record/playback the selection is greyed out, so no change is possible.

Clock Source

The unit can be configured to use its own clock (Internal = Master), or one of the input signals

(Word, SPDIF coax., Optical In). If the selected source isn't available (Input Status No Lock),

the unit will change to the next available one (this behaviour is called AutoSync). If none is

available then the internal clock is used. The current clock source is displayed as Current.

Pitch

More information on Pitch is available in chapter 8.2.

Input Status

Indicates for each input (Word, ADAT/SPDIF optical, SPDIF Coax.) whether there is a valid

signal (Lock, No Lock), or if there is a valid and synchronous signal (Sync). The third column

shows the sample frequency detected by the hardware (coarse recognition, 32 kHz, 44.1 kHz,

48 kHz etc.). In Clock Mode the clock reference is shown. See also chapter 32.1.

16 User's Guide Fireface UCX

Bandwidth (only for the FireWire driver)

Allows to reduce the amount of bandwidth used on the FireWire bus. See chapter 32.4.

All channels (default) activates all 18 input and output channels.

Analog +SPDIF + ADAT 1-4 disables channels 15–18 (from ADAT).

Analog + SPDIF activates all 8 analog channels plus SPDIF.

Analog activates only the eight analog channels.

8.2 Settings Dialog - Pitch

Usually soundcards and audio interfaces generate their internal clock (master mode) by a

quartz. Therefore the internal clock can be set to 44.1 kHz or 48 kHz, but not to a value in be-

tween. SteadyClock, RME's sensational Low Jitter Clock System, is based on a Direct Digital

Synthesizer (DDS). This superior circuitry can generate nearly any frequency with highest pre-

cision.

DDS has been implemented into the Fireface with regard to the needs of professional video

applications, as well as to maximum flexibility. The section Pitch includes both a list of typical

video frequencies (so called pull up/pull down at 0.1% and 4%) and a fader to freely change the

basic sample rate in steps of 1 Hz (!) over a range of +/- 5%.

The Pitch function requires the Fireface to be in clock mode Master! The frequency setting

will only be applied to this one specific Fireface!

Changing the sample rate during record/playback often results in a loss of audio, or brings

up warning messages of the audio software. Therefore the desired sample rate should be

set at least coarsely before starting the software.

Coarse

Coarse modification in steps of 50 Hz

is done by clicking with the mouse to

the left and right of the fader knob.

Fine

Fine modification in steps of 1 Hz is

done by using the left/right cursor

keys.

Reset

Ctrl key plus left mouse click.

Application examples

Pitch allows for a simultaneous change of speed and tune during record and playback. From

alignment to other sources up to creative effects – everything is possible.

Pitch enables you to intentionally de-tune the complete DAW. This way, the DAW can match

instruments which have a wrong or unchangeable tuning.

Pitch allows for the change of the sample rate of all WDM devices at the same time. Since Vista

this is no longer possible via the audio program, thus requires a manual reconfiguration of all

WDM devices. Changing the sample rate from the Settings dialog solves this problem. As the

change within the system requires some time, record/playback should not be started immedi-

ately, but only after at least 5 seconds after a change.

Tip: the current CPU load can be used to determine if the audio subsystem has finished the re-

configuration.

User's Guide Fireface UCX 17

9. Operation and Usage

9.1 Playback

The Fireface UCX can play back audio data in supported formats only (sample rate, bit resolu-

tion). Otherwise an error message appears (for example at 22 kHz and 8 bit).

In the audio application being used, Fireface must be selected as output device. This can often

be found in the Options, Preferences or Settings menus under Playback Device, Audio Devices,

Audio etc.

We strongly recommend switching all system sounds off (via >Control Panel /Sounds<). Also

Fireface should not be the Preferred Device for playback, as this could cause loss of synchroni-

zation and unwanted noises. If you feel you cannot do without system sounds, you should use

on-board sound or any cheap sound card and select this one as Preferred Device in >Control

Panel /Multimedia /Audio< or >Control Panel /Sound /Playback<.

The screenshot shows a typical configuration dialog of a (stereo) wave editor. Audio data is

sent to an analog or digital port, depending on which has been selected as playback device.

Increasing the number and/or size of audio buffers may prevent the audio signal from breaking

up, but also increases latency i.e. output is delayed. For synchronized playback of audio and

MIDI (or similar), be sure to activate the checkbox ‘Get position from audio driver’.

Note on Windows Vista/7:

Since Vista the audio application can no longer control the sample rate under WDM. Instead the

user has to work himself through numerous settings (18 with the UCX!), and to set the sample

rate to the same value per stereo device.

Therefore the driver of the Fireface UCX includes a workaround: the sample rate can be set

globally for all WDM devices within the Settings dialog, see chapter 8.1.

18 User's Guide Fireface UCX

9.2 DVD-Playback (AC-3/DTS)

AC-3 / DTS

When using popular DVD software players like WinDVD and PowerDVD, their audio data

stream can be sent to any AC-3/DTS capable receiver using the Fireface's SPDIF output. For

this to work, the WDM SPDIF device of the Fireface has to be selected in >Control Panel/

Sounds and Multimedia/ Audio< or >Control Panel/ Sound/Playback<. Also check 'use preferred

device only'.

The DVD software's audio properties now show the options 'SPDIF Out' or similar. When select-

ing it, the software will transfer the non-decoded digital multichannel data stream to the Fire-

face.

Note: This 'SPDIF' signal sounds like chopped noise at highest level. Try to avoid mixing and

routing the signal to your loudspeakers, as they might get damaged.

Multichannel

PowerDVD and WinDVD can also operate as software decoder, sending a DVD's multichannel

data stream directly to the analog outputs of the Fireface. For this to work select the WDM play-

back device ’Loudspeaker’ of the Fireface in

XP: >Control Panel/ Sounds and Multimedia/ Audio<, and check 'Use only default devices'.

Additionally the loudspeaker setup, found under >Volume/ Speaker Settings/ Advanced< has to

be changed from Stereo to 5.1 Surround.

Vista/7: >Control Panel/ Sound/ Playback < as ‘Standard’. Additionally the loudspeaker setup,

found under >Configuration<, has to be changed from Stereo to 5.1 Surround.

PowerDVD's and WinDVD's audio properties now list several multichannel modes. If one of

these is selected, the software sends the decoded analog multichannel data to the Fireface.

TotalMix can then be used to play back via any desired output channels.

The typical channel assignment for surround playback is:

1 - Left

2 - Right

3 - Center

4 - LFE (Low Frequency Effects)

5 - SL (Surround Left)

6 - SR (Surround Right)

Note 1: Selecting the Fireface to be used as system playback device is against our recommen-

dations, as professional interfaces should not be disturbed by system events. Make sure to re-

assign the selection after usage or to disable any system sounds (tab Sounds, scheme 'No

audio').

Note 2: The DVD player will be synced backwards from the Fireface. This means when using

AutoSync and/or word clock, the playback speed and pitch follows the incoming clock signal.

User's Guide Fireface UCX 19

9.3 Notes on WDM

The driver offers a WDM streaming device per stereo pair, like Analog 3+4 (Fireface UCX).

WDM streaming is Microsoft's current driver and audio system, directly embedded into the op-

erating system. WDM streaming is hardly usable for professional music purposes, as all data is

processed by the so called Kernel Mixer, causing a latency of at least 30 ms. Additionally, WDM

can perform sample rate conversions unnoticed, cause offsets between record and playback

data, block channels unintentionally and much more.

Several programs do not offer any direct device selection. Instead they use the playback device

selected in Windows under

XP: <Control Panel/ Sounds and Multimedia/ Audio>

Vista/7: <Control Panel/ Sound/ Playback>

The program Sonar from Cakewalk is unique in many ways. Sonar uses the so called WDM

Kernel Streaming, bypassing the WDM mixer, thus achieves a similar performance to ASIO.

Because of the driver's multichannel streaming ability Sonar not only finds the stereo device

mentioned above, but also the 8-channel interleaved devices, and adds the channel number at

the end:

Fireface Analog (1+2) 1/2 is the first stereo device

Fireface Analog (3+4) is the next stereo device

Fireface Analog (1+2) 3/4 are the channels 3/4 of the first 8-channel interleaved device.

It is not recommended to use these special interleaved devices. Also it is not possible to use

one stereo channel twice (the basic and the interleaved device).

Multi-Channel using WDM

The WDM Streaming device Loudspeaker (Analog 1+2) of the RME driver can operate as usual

stereo device, or as up to 8-channel device.

An 8-channel playback using the Windows Media Player requires the speaker setup 7.1 Sur-

round. Configure as follows:

XP: >Control Panel /Sounds and Multimedia /Audio /Volume /Speaker Settings /Advanced <

Vista/7: >Control Panel /Sound /Playback /Loudspeaker /Configure <

20 User's Guide Fireface UCX

9.4 Channel Count under WDM

The Fireface ADAT optical ports support sample rates of up to 192 kHz using a standard ADAT

recorder. For this to work single-channel data is spread to two or four ADAT channels using the

Sample Multiplexing technique. This reduces the number of available ADAT channels from 8 to

4 or 2.

Whenever the Fireface changes into Double Speed (88.2/96 kHz) or Quad Speed mode

(176.4/192 kHz) all devices no longer available vanish automatically.

WDM Stereo device Double Speed Quad Speed

Analog (1+2) Analog (1+2) Analog (1+2)

Analog (3+4) Analog (3+4) Analog (3+4)

Analog (5+6) Analog (5+6) Analog (5+6)

Analog (7+8) Analog (7+8) Analog (7+8)

SPDIF coax SPDIF coax SPDIF coax

SPDIF / ADAT (1+2) SPDIF / ADAT (1+2) SPDIF / ADAT (1+2)

ADAT (3+4) ADAT (3+4) ADAT (3+4)

ADAT (5+6) ADAT (5+6) ADAT (5+6)

ADAT (7+8) ADAT (7+8) ADAT (7+8)

Note: Under Vista/7 the analog outputs 1/2 show up as Loudspeaker.

9.5 Multi-client Operation

RME audio interfaces support multi-client operation. Several programs can be used at the same

time. The formats ASIO and WDM can even be used on the same playback channels simulta-

neously. As WDM uses a real-time sample rate conversion (ASIO does not), all active ASIO

software has to use the same sample rate.

However, a better overview is maintained by using the channels exclusively. This is no limitation

at all, because TotalMix allows for any output routing, and therefore a playback of multiple soft-

ware on the same hardware outputs.

Inputs can be used from an unlimited number of WDM and ASIO software at the same time, as

the driver simply sends the data to all applications simultaneously.

RME's sophisticated tool DIGICheck is an exception to this rule. It operates like an ASIO host,

using a special technique to access playback channels directly. Therefore DIGICheck is able to

analyse and display playback data from any software, no matter which format it uses.

User's Guide Fireface UCX 21

9.6 Analog Recording

For recordings via the analog inputs the corresponding record device has to be chosen (Fire-

face UCX Analog (x+x)).

The input sensitivity of the rear inputs can be changed in three steps in TotalMix (Input Channel

Settings, Level), assuring the highest signal to noise ratio will be achieved. A further optimiza-

tion can be achieved by adjusting the source itself. Raise the source’s output level until the

peak level meters in TotalMix reach about –3 dB.

The level of the front-side analog inputs can be optimized via TotalMix (Input Channel Settings,

Level or Gain), or directly at the Fireface UCX by the encoders and the 7 segment display. A

Signal LED and a Clip LED help to find the correct gain value.

Further information is found in chapter 21.

It often makes sense to monitor the input signal or send it directly to the output. This can be

done at zero latency using TotalMix (see chapter 27).

An automated control of real-time monitoring can be achieved by Steinberg’s ASIO protocol

with RME’s ASIO drivers and all ASIO 2.0 compatible programs. When 'ASIO Direct Monitoring'

has been switched on, the input signal is routed in real-time to the output whenever a recording

is started (punch-in).

9.7 Digital Recording

Unlike analog soundcards which produce empty wave files (or noise) when no input signal is

present, digital interfaces always need a valid input signal to start recording.

Taking this into account, RME added a

comprehensive I/O signal status display to

the Fireface UCX, showing sample frequency,

lock and sync status for every input, and

several status LEDs directly at the unit.

The sample frequency shown in the fields

Clock Mode and Input Status is useful as a

quick display of the current configuration of

the unit and the connected external

equipment. If no sample frequency is

recognized, it will read ‘No Lock’.

This way, configuring any suitable audio application for digital recording is simple. After select-

ing the correct input, Fireface UCX displays the current sample frequency. This parameter can

then be changed in the application’s audio attributes (or similar) dialog.

22 User's Guide Fireface UCX

9.8 Clock Modes - Synchronization

In the digital world, all devices must be either Master (clock source) or Slave (clock receiver).

Whenever several devices are linked within a system, there must always be a single master

clock.

A digital system can only have one master! If the Fireface’s clock mode is set to 'Master', all

other devices must be set to ‘Slave’.

The Fireface UCX utilizes a very user-friendly, intelligent clock control, called AutoSync. In

AutoSync mode, the system constantly scans the digital input for a valid signal. If any valid sig-

nal is found, the Fireface switches from the internal quartz (Clock Mode – Current Internal) to a

clock extracted from the input signal (Clock Mode – Current ADAT, SPDIF or Word). The differ-

ence to a usual slave mode is that whenever the clock reference fails, the system will automati-

cally use its internal clock and operate in clock mode Master.

AutoSync guarantees that record and record-while-play will always work correctly. In certain

cases however, e.g. when the inputs and outputs of a DAT machine are connected directly to

the UCX, AutoSync may cause feedback in the digital carrier, so synchronization breaks down.

To solve this problem switch the Fireface clock mode to Master (Clock Source – Internal).

The Fireface's ADAT optical and SPDIF input operate simultaneously. Because there is no input

selector however, the unit has to be told which one of the signals is the sync reference (a digital

device can only be clocked from a single source). By selecting a Clock Source a preferred input

is defined. As long as the unit sees a valid signal there, it will be used as the sync source.

In some situations changing the clock mode can not be avoided. Example: An ADAT recorder is

connected to the ADAT input (ADAT immediately becomes the AutoSync source) and a CD

player is connected to the SPDIF input. Try recording a few samples from the CD and you will

be disappointed - few CD players can be synchronized. The samples will inevitably be cor-

rupted, because the signal from the CD player is read with the clock from the ADAT. In this

case the Clock Source should be temporarily set to SPDIF.

RME’s exclusive SyncCheck technology (first implemented in the Hammerfall) enables an easy

to use check and display of the current clock status. SyncCheck indicates whether there is a

valid signal (Lock, No Lock) for each input (Word Clock, ADAT, SPDIF), or if there is a valid and

synchronous signal (Sync). In the field Clock Mode the clock reference is shown. See chapter

32.1.

Under WDM the Fireface will (has to)

set the sample rate. Therefore the

error shown to the right can occur. A

stable signal with a sample rate of 32

kHz is detected at the ADAT input

(Sync), but Windows audio had been

set to 44100 Hz before. The red color

of the text label signals the error

condition, and prompts the user to set

32000 Hz manually as sample rate.

Under ASIO the audio software sets

the sample rate, so that such an error

can not happen. If the input sample

rate is different then there will be no

Sync indication.

In practice, SyncCheck provides the user with an easy way of checking whether all digital de-

vices connected to the system are properly configured. With SyncCheck, finally anyone can

master this common source of error, previously one of the most complex issues in the digital

studio world.

User's Guide Fireface UCX 23

10. Operation under ASIO

10.1 General

Start the ASIO software and select ASIO Fireface USB as the audio I/O device or the audio

driver.

The Fireface UCX supports ASIO Direct Monitoring (ADM).

The Fireface UCX MIDI I/O can be used with both MME MIDI and DirectMusic MIDI.

10.2 Channel Count under ASIO

At a sample rate of 88.2 or 96 kHz, the ADAT optical input and outputs operate in S/MUX mode,

so the number of available channels is reduced from 8 to 4.

At a sample rate of 176.4 and 192 kHz, the ADAT optical input and output operates in S/MUX4

mode, so the number of available channels is limited to 2.

Note: When changing the sample rate range between Single, Double and Quad Speed the

number of channels presented from the ASIO driver will change too. This may require a reset of

the I/O list in the audio software.

Single Speed Double Speed Quad Speed

Analog 1 to 8 Analog 1 to 8 Analog 1 to 8

SPDIF coax L / R SPDIF L / R SPDIF L / R

SPDIF opt LR / ADAT 1/2 SPDIF opt LR / ADAT 1/2 SPDIF opt LR / ADAT 1/2

ADAT 3 to 8 ADAT 3 to 4 -

24 User's Guide Fireface UCX

10.3 Known Problems

If a computer does not provide sufficient CPU-power and/or sufficient USB or PCI* bus transfer

rates, then drop outs, crackling and noise will appear. Raising the buffer size in the Settings

dialog of the Fireface UCX helps in most cases. It is also recommended to deactivate all

PlugIns to verify that these are not the reason for such effects. Further information is found in

chapter 32.3.

*The note on PCI is not an error in this manual: very often FireWire controllers are connected to

the PCI bus. Therefore the same problems known from PCI audio cards can occur with Fire-

Wire audio interfaces as well. Further information is found in chapter 32.4.

Another common source of trouble is incorrect synchronization. ASIO does not support asyn-

chronous operation, which means that the input and output signals not only have to use the

same sample frequency, but also have to be in sync. All devices connected to the Fireface UCX

must be properly configured for Full Duplex operation. As long as SyncCheck (in the Settings

dialog) only displays Lock instead of , the devices have not been set up properly! Sync

The same applies when using more than one Fireface UCX - they all have to be in sync. Else a

periodically repeated noise will be heard.

Fireface UCX supports ASIO Direct Monitoring (ADM). Please note that not all programs sup-

port ADM completely or error-free. The most often reported problem is the wrong behaviour of

panorama in a stereo channel.

In case of a drift between audio and MIDI, or in case of a fixed deviation (MIDI notes placed

close before or behind the correct position), the settings in Cubase/Nuendo have to be

changed. At the time of print the option 'Use System Timestamp' should be activated. The Fire-

face supports both MME MIDI and DirectMusic MIDI. It depends on the used application which

one will work better.

11. Using more than one Fireface UCX

The current driver supports up to three Fireface UCX. All units have to be in sync, i.e. have to

receive valid sync information (either via word clock or by using AutoSync and feeding synchro-

nized signals).

• If one of the Firefaces is set to clock mode Master, all others have to be set to clock mode

AutoSync, and have to be synced from the master, for example by feeding word clock. The

clock modes of all units have to be set up correctly in the Fireface Settings dialog.

• If all units are fed with a synchronous clock, i.e. all units show Sync in their Settings dialog,

all channels can be used at once. This is especially easy to handle under ASIO, as the

ASIO driver presents all units as one.

The driver takes care of the numbering of all Firefaces, so that it doesn't change. The unit with

the lowest serial number is always 'Fireface (1)'. Please note:

• If the Fireface (1) is switched off, Fireface (2) logically turns to the first and only Fireface. If

Fireface (1) is switched on later, the numbering changes and the unit becomes Fireface (2)

immediately.

• The driver has no control on the numbering of the WDM devices. Therefore it might happen

that the WDM devices (2) are mapped to unit (1), especially when switching on more Fire-

faces during a Windows session. A reboot with all Firefaces already operational should

solve this problem.

User's Guide Fireface UCX 25

Note: TotalMix is part of the hardware of each Fireface. Up to three mixers are available, but

these are separated and can't interchange data. Therefore a global mixer for all units is not

possible.

When using more than one Fireface UCX the USB/FW bus might get overloaded. To prevent

this connect all units to different busses. See chapter 32.3 and 32.4 for further notes on USB

and FireWire performance.

12. DIGICheck Windows

The DIGICheck software is a unique utility developed for testing, measuring and analysing digi-

tal audio streams. Although this Windows software is fairly self-explanatory, it still includes a

comprehensive online help. DIGICheck 5.4 operates as multi-client ASIO host, therefore can be

used in parallel to any software, be it WDM or ASIO, with both inputs and outputs (!). The fol-

lowing is a short summary of the currently available functions:

• Level Meter. High precision 24-bit resolution, 2/10/28 channels. Application examples: Peak

level measurement, RMS level measurement, over-detection, phase correlation measure-

ment, dynamic range and signal-to-noise ratios, RMS to peak difference (loudness), long

term peak measurement, input check. Oversampling mode for levels higher than 0 dBFS.

Vertical and horizontal mode. Slow RMS and RLB weighting filter. Supports visualization ac-

cording to the K-System.

• Hardware Level Meter for Input, Playback and Output. Reference Level Meter freely con-

figurable, causing near zero CPU load, because calculated from the Fireface hardware.

• Vector Audio Scope. World wide unique Goniometer showing the typical afterglow of a

oscilloscope-tube. Includes Correlation meter and level meter.

• Spectral Analyser. World wide unique 10-, 20- or 30-band display in analog bandpass filter

technology. 192 kHz-capable!

• Totalyser. Spectral Analyser, Level Meter and Vector Audio Scope in a single window.

• Surround Audio Scope. Professional Surround Level Meter with extended correlation

analysis, ITU weighting and ITU summing meter.

• ITU1770/EBU R128 Meter. For standardized loudness measurements.

• Bit Statistics & Noise. Shows the true resolution of audio signals as well as errors and DC

offset. Includes Signal to Noise measurement in dB and dBA, plus DC measurement.

• Channel Status Display. Detailed analysis and display of SPDIF and AES/EBU Channel

Status data.

• Global Record. Long-term recording of all channels at lowest system load.

• Completely multi-client. Open as many measurement windows as you like, on any chan-

nels and inputs or outputs!

To install DIGICheck, go to the \DIGICheck directory on the RME Driver CD and run setup.exe.

Follow the instructions prompted on the screen.

DIGICheck is constantly updated. The latest version is always available on our website

www.rme-audio.com, section Downloads / DIGICheck.

26 User's Guide Fireface UCX

13. Hotline – Troubleshooting

The newest information can always be found on our website www.rme-audio.com, section FAQ,

Latest Additions.

The 8 ADAT channels don’t seem to work

• The optical output ADAT has been switched to SPDIF. As can be seen in the block diagram,

all channels and their assignments still exist, but the optical transmitter has been discon-

nected from ADAT and is now fed from the SPDIF output (channels 9/10). The ADAT play-

back devices are still usable by routing and mixing them in TotalMix to other outputs.

Playback works, but record doesn’t

• Check that there is a valid signal at the input. If so, the current sample frequency is dis-

played in the Settings dialog.

• Check whether the Fireface UCX has been selected as recording device in the audio appli-

cation.

• Check whether the sample frequency set in the audio application (‘Recording properties’ or

similar) matches the input signal.

• Check that cables/devices have not been connected in a closed loop. If so, set the system’s

clock mode to Master.

Crackle during record or playback

• Increase the number and size of buffers in the ‘Settings’ dialog or in the application.

• Try different cables (coaxial or optical) to rule out any defects here.

• Check that cables/devices have not been connected in a closed loop. If so, set the system’s

clock mode to ‘Master’.

• Check the Settings dialog for displayed Errors.

Driver installation and Settings dialog/TotalMix work, but a playback or record is not possible

• While recognition and control of the device are low bandwidth applications, playback/record

needs the full FireWire transmission performance. Therefore, defective FireWire cables with

limited transmission bandwidth can cause such an error scheme. The same is true for USB

cables.

User's Guide Fireface UCX 27

User's Guide

Installation and Operation – Mac OS X

28 User's Guide Fireface UCX

14. Hardware Installation

USB

• Use the power cord to connect the Fireface with any suitable power outlet.

• Connect computer and Fireface using the supplied USB cable.

• Power on computer and UCX.

The Mac OS detects the hardware as Fireface (serial number).

FireWire

• Use the power cord to connect the Fireface with any suitable power outlet.

• Connect computer and Fireface using a 6-pin FireWire cable (IEEE1394a). In case your

computer does not have any FireWire port, PCI, PCI Express, CardBus and ExpressCard

cards can be used to add them. In case your notebook does not have a 6-pin jack, or did

not include a 6-pin to 4-pin adapter: such adapters are available in your local computer

store.

• Power on computer and UCX.

Note: FireWire and USB can be connected at the same time, but it is not recommended. How-

ever, the unit will use only one port. Upon start of the computer the port that becomes active

first will be used. With no port active the unit searches on both USB and FireWire until it finds

an active one.

15. Driver and Firmware

15.1 Driver Installation

After the Fireface has been switched on (see 14. Hardware Installation) install the drivers from

the RME Driver CD. The driver files are located in the folder \Fireface_USB and \Fireface_FW

on the RME Driver CD. Installation works automatically by a double-click on the file Fireface

USB.pkg Fireface.pkg or .

RME recommends downloading the latest driver version from the RME website. If done, the

procedure is as follows:

A double-click onto driver_usb_mac.zip expands the archive file to Fireface USB.pkg. Instal-

lation works automatically by a double-click on this file.

A double-click onto fireface_x86.zip expands the archive file to Fireface.pkg. Installation

works automatically by a double-click on this file.

During driver installation the programs Fireface USB Settings and Fireface USB Mixer (To-

talMix FX), or Fireface Settings and Fireface Mixer respectively, are copied to the Applica-

tions folder. It is recommended to link these two programs to the Dock so that they are always

available.

Possible reasons why a Fireface is not found automatically:

• The USB or FireWire port is not active in the system (check in System Profiler)

• The USB or FireWire cable is not, or not correctly inserted into the socket

User's Guide Fireface UCX 29

15.2 Driver Update

In case of a driver update it's not necessary to remove the old driver first, it will be overwritten

during the installation. In case of problems the driver files can be deleted manually by dragging

them to the trash bin:

USB

/Applications/Fireface USB Mixer

/Applications/Fireface USB Settings

/System/Library/Extensions/FirefaceUSB.kext

/Users/username/Library/Preferences/Fireface USB Folder

/Users/username/Library/Preferences/de.rme-audio.FirefaceUSBMixer.plist

/Users/username/Library/Preferences/de.rme-audio.TotalmixFX.plist

/Users/username/Library/Preferences/de.rme-audio.Fireface_USB_Settings.plist

/Library/LaunchAgents/de.rme-audio.firefaceUSBAgent.plist

FireWire

/Applications/Fireface Mixer

/Applications/Fireface Settings

/System/Library/Extensions/FirefaceAudioDriver.kext

/Users/username/Library/Preferences/Fireface Folder

/Users/username/Library/Preferences/com.rme.FirefaceMixer.plist

/Users/username/Library/Preferences/de.rme-audio.TotalmixFX.plist

/Users/username/Library/Preferences/de.rme-audio.FirefaceSettings.plist

/Library/LaunchAgents/de.rme-audio.firefaceAgent.plist

15.3 Firmware Update

The Flash Update Tool updates the firmware of the Fireface UCX to the latest version. It re-

quires an already installed driver.

Start the program Fireface USB Flash. The Flash Update Tool displays the current revision of

the Fireface firmware, and whether it needs an update or not. If so, simply press the 'Update'

button. A progress bar will indicate when the flash process is finished (Verify Ok).

After the update the Fireface UCX needs to be reset. This is done by powering down the Fire-

face for a few seconds. A reboot of the computer is not necessary.

When the update fails (status: failure), the unit's second BIOS will be used from the next cold

boot on (Secure BIOS Technology). Therefore the unit stays fully functional. The flash process

should then be tried again on a different computer.

30 User's Guide Fireface UCX

16. Configuring the Fireface UCX

16.1 Settings Dialog

Configuring the Fireface is done via its own settings dialog. Start the program Fireface USB

Settings. The mixer of the Fireface UCX (TotalMix FX) can be configured by starting the pro-

gram Fireface USB Mixer.

The Fireface’s hardware offers a number of helpful, well thought-out practical functions and

options which affect how the card operates - it can be configured to suit many different require-

ments.

The following is available in the 'Settings' dialog:

• Operation of the DSP

• Configuration of digital I/Os

• Current sample rate

• Synchronization behaviour

• State of input and output

Any changes performed in the

Settings dialog are applied

immediately - confirmation (e.g.

by exiting the dialog) is not

required.

However, settings should not

be changed during playback or

record if it can be avoided, as

this can cause unwanted

noises.

Use the drop down menu

Properties For to select the

unit to be configured.

On the right of it the current

firmware and driver version is

shown.

Output Format

Word

The word clock output signal usually equals the current sample rate. Selecting Single Speed

causes the output signal to always stay within the range of 32 kHz to 48 kHz. So at 96 kHz and

192 kHz sample rate, the output word clock is 48 kHz.

Optical

The optical TOSLINK output can operate as ADAT or SPDIF output. The Channel Status is

fixed to Consumer state.

Note: The optical input detects the incoming format automatically.

SPDIF coax.

The coaxial SPDIF output can have the Channel Status Consumer or Professional. For further

details please refer to chapter 23.2.

User's Guide Fireface UCX 31

Clock Mode

Sample Rate

Used to set the current sample rate. This is the same setting as in the Audio MIDI Setup, just

added here for your convenience.

Clock Source

The unit can be configured to use its own clock (Internal = Master), or one of the input signals

(Word, ADAT, SPDIF coax. = Slave). If the selected source isn't available, the unit will change

to the next available one (this functionality is called AutoSync). If none is available then the in-

ternal clock is used. The current clock source is displayed below.

Input Status

Indicates for each input (Word, optical, SPDIF coax.) whether there is a valid signal (Lock, No

Lock), or if there is a valid and synchronous signal (Sync). The third column shows the sample

frequency detected by the hardware (coarse recognition, 32 kHz, 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz etc.). See

also chapter 32.1.

Options

DSP – EQ+D for Record

Switches EQ and Dynamics of all input channels into the recording path. In case Loopback has

been activated the EQ and Dynamics of the Output channel are within the recording path. See

also chapter 29.5.

WC In - Termination

Checking this option terminates the word clock input internally with 75 Ohms.

Limit Bandwidth (only for the FireWire driver)

Allows to reduce the amount of bandwidth used on the FireWire bus. See chapter 32.4.

All channels (default) activates all 18 input and output channels.

Analog +SPDIF + ADAT 1-4 disables channels 15–18 (from ADAT).

Analog + SPDIF activates all 8 analog channels plus SPDIF.

Analog activates only the eight analog channels.

32 User's Guide Fireface UCX

16.2 Clock Modes - Synchronization