F IR E S T U D IO
P R O J E C T
24-bit/96k Recording Interface
w/ Eight Microphone Preamplifiers
FIRESTUDIO™
10X10 FireWire Interface
|
8
XMAX Preamps | 96kHz
|
MIDI I/O | S/PDIF I/O | Digital Mixer
1
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Mic Instrument
Mic Line
User’s Manual
Version 1.0
© 2007, PreSonus Audio Electronics, Inc.
All Rights Reserved.
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TAB LE O F C O N TEN TS
1 OVERVIEW
1.1 Introduction ........................................................................................................................................... 3
1.2 Features ................................................................................................................................................ 4
1.3 What is in the Box ................................................................................................................................. 5
1.4 System Requirements ............................................................................................................................. 6
2 OPERATION
2.1 Quick Start Up ....................................................................................................................................... 7
2.1.1 Installation in Microsoft Windows .................................................................................................. 7
2.1.2 Installation in Mac OS X ................................................................................................................ 8
2.1.3 Cubase LE – Device Setup .............................................................................................................. 9
2.1.4 Cubase LE – Creating a Project .................................................................................................... 11
2.2 Sample Hookup Diagram ..................................................................................................................... 13
2.3 Microphones ........................................................................................................................................ 14
2.3.1 Condenser .................................................................................................................................... 14
2.3.2 Dynamic ...................................................................................................................................... 14
2.3.3 USB and other types .................................................................................................................... 14
2.4 Using The Preamp Output and Line Input as an Insert .......................................................................... 15
3 CONTROLS & CONNECTIONS
3.1 PreSonus FireControl Software ............................................................................................................ 16
3.1.1 FireControl Application Icon ........................................................................................................ 16
3.1.2 FireControl Master Section .......................................................................................................... 17
3.1.3 FireControl Mixer ........................................................................................................................ 18
3.1.3 FireControl Menus ....................................................................................................................... 20
3.2 Front Panel Layout .............................................................................................................................. 21
3.3 Back Panel Layout ............................................................................................................................... 24
4 TECHNICAL INFORMATION
4.1 Troubleshooting ................................................................................................................................... 26
4.2 Specifications ...................................................................................................................................... 27
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O VER VIEW
1.1 INTRODUCTION
FIRESTUDIO™
10X10 FireWire Interface
|
8
XMAX Preamps | 96kHz
|
MIDI I/O | S/PDIF I/O
|
Digital Mixer
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
48V
48V
48V
48V
0dB
-6dB
-40dB
0dB
-6dB
-40dB
0dB
-6dB
-40dB
1/
2
3/
4
5/
6
7/
8
1
Phon1e1s
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
10
-8M0 ain
0 160
0 260
0 360
0 460
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0 760
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+30
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+30
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+20
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Mic Instrument
Mic Line
Thank you for purchasing the PreSonus FireStudio Project. PreSonus Audio Electronics has designed the
FireStudio Project utilizing high-grade components to ensure optimum performance that will last a lifetime.
Loaded with 24-bit 96K converters, eight PreSonus X-MAX microphone preamplifiers and Cubase LE 48-track
music production software, the FireStudio Project is ready to go out of the box for professional quality computer
recording. All you need is a computer with FireWire connection, a few microphones and cables along with your
instruments and you are ready to record!
We encourage you to contact us at 225-216-7887 with any questions or comments you may have regarding your
PreSonus FireStudio Project. PreSonus Audio Electronics is committed to constant product improvement, and
we value your suggestions highly. We believe the best way to achieve our goal of constant product improvement
is by listening to the real experts, our valued customers. We appreciate the support you have shown us through
the purchase of this product.
We suggest you use this manual to familiarize yourself with the features, applications and correct connection
procedure for your FireStudio Project before trying to connect it to your computer. This will hopefully alleviate
any unforeseen issues that you may encounter during installation and set up.
Thank you, once again, for buying our product, and we hope you enjoy your FireStudio Project!
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O VER VIEW
1.2 FEATURES
The FireStudio Project is a powerful and affordable computer recording system complete with everything needed
for real-world recording applications. The FireStudio Project comes complete with eight high-quality PreSonus
X-MAX microphone preamps, S/PDIF and MIDI I/O, rock solid drivers, expandability, as well as a plethora of
music recording and production software.
The FireStudio Project includes PreSonus ProPak Software Suite with Cubase LE 4 and over 2 GB of plug-ins,
drum loops and samples – giving you everything you need for professional music recording and production.
Summary of features
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
High-speed FireWire (IEEE 1394)
24-bit / 96 kHz sampling rate
8 Class A X-MAX microphone preamps
28 simultaneous inputs and outputs (10 discrete i/o)
Balanced send/return on channels 1 & 2
S/PDIF I/O, MIDI I/O
Built-in zero-latency DSP mixer
PreSonus FireControl software
Cubase LE 4 Music Production Software included
PreSonus ProPak Software Suite (over 2 GB of plug-ins, loops and samples)
OS X and Windows compatible
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O VER VIEW
1.3 WHAT IS IN THE BOX
Your FireStudio Project package contains the following:
FIRESTUDIO™
10X10 FireWire Interface
|
8
XMAX Preamps
|
96kHz
|
M
IDI I/O
|
S/PDIF I/O
|
Digital
M
ixer
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
48V
48V
48V
48V
0dB
-6dB
0dB
-6dB
0dB
-6dB
-40dB
-40dB
-40dB
1/
2
3/
4
5/
6
7/
8
1
Phon1e1s
•
•
FireStudio Project Recording Interface
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2
3
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5
6
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8
10
-8M0 ain
0 160
0 260
0 360
0 460
0 560
0 660
0 760
0 860
-1 0
+
30
-10
+
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-2 0
+20
-2 0
+
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-20
+20
-2 0
+20
-2 0
+
20
-2 0
+20
Mic Instrument
Mic Line
6’ 6-pin to 6-pin FireWire cable
•
•
6’ Standard IEC Power Cable
Software installation discs:
o
PreSonus FireStudio Project
Installation Drivers
Cubase LE 4
o
o
ProPak Software Suite
•
PreSonus Warranty Card
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O VER VIEW
1.4 SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS
Below are the minimum computer system requirements for your FireStudio Project.
Macintosh
•
•
•
•
OS: Mac OS X 10.4.x or later
Computer: Apple Macintosh series with FireWire 400 port
CPU/Clock: PowerPC G4/1 GHz or higher (Intel/Dual 1 GHz recommended)
Memory (RAM): 512 MB (1 GB or more recommended)
Windows
•
•
•
•
OS: 32-bit Microsoft Windows Vista or XP (with at least SP1)
Computer: Windows compatible computer with FireWire 400 port.
CPU/Clock: Pentium or AMD with 1 GHz or higher (Dual 1 GHz recommended)
Memory (RAM): 512 MB (1 GB or more recommended)
NOTE: The speed of your processor, amount of RAM and size & speed of your hard drives will greatly affect the
overall performance of your recording system. A more powerful system (faster processor with more RAM)
allows for lower latency (signal delay) and better overall performance.
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O P ER ATIO N
2.1 QUICK START UP
2.1.1 Installation in Microsoft Windows
After inserting the Installation CD into your CD-ROM drive, the FireStudio Project installer will take you
through each step of the installation process. Please read each message carefully – ensuring especially you
do not connect your FireStudio Project early.
1) The FireStudio Project Installer was written to
be as simple and easy-to-follow as possible.
Please read each message carefully to ensure the
FireStudio Project is properly installed.
Before continuing the FireStudio Project
Installation Setup, please close all multimedia
applications and disconnect your FireStudio
Project from your computer.
2) If you see any Windows Security alerts, click
“Install this driver software anyway” (Vista) or
“Continue anyway” (XP).
3) Before rebooting your computer, ensure the
FireStudio Project is connected to your
computer. If a Found New Hardware wizard
appears, follow the recommended steps, then
restart your computer.
After rebooting your computer, when the sync
light remains solid blue, your FireStudio Project
is synced to your computer and ready to use!
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O P ER ATIO N
2.1.2 Installation in Mac OS X
After inserting the Installation CD into your disc drive, browse the disc and run the FireStudio Project
installer, which will take you through each step of the installation process.
1) The FireStudio Project Installer was written to
be as simple and easy-to-follow as possible.
Please read each message carefully to ensure the
FireStudio Project is properly installed.
2) After rebooting your computer, connect your
FireStudio Project to your computer via the
included FireWire cable. When the sync light
remains solid blue, your FireStudio Project is
synced to your computer and ready to use!
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O P ER ATIO N
2.1.3 Cubase LE 4 – Device Setup
Once you have installed the FireStudio Project drivers and connected your FireStudio Project, you can use
the Cubase LE 4 Music Creation and Production System software included with your FireStudio Project to
begin recording, mixing and producing your music. Insert the Cubase LE 4 installation CD into your
computer and run the installer.
Then, launch Cubase LE 4 and follow these steps to begin recording with your FireStudio Project:
1) Select ‘Device Setup…’ from the Devices menu.
2) Select ‘VST Audio System’ from the Devices
column in Device Setup.
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O P ER ATIO N
3) Select ‘PreSonus FireStudio’ from the ASIO
Driver dropdown list.
4) Click ‘Switch’ to begin using the FireStudio
Project Driver.
For more help on using Cubase LE 4, please read
the Getting Started and Operation Manual help
documents located in Help > Documentation.
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O P ER ATIO N
2.1.4 Cubase LE 4 – Creating a Project
To begin recording in Cubase LE, you first need to create a project. Once you have the project environment,
you can begin adding audio and MIDI tracks to record and edit on. Follow these simple steps to begin
recording your first audio in Cubase LE:
1) Plug an XLR microphone or instrument into FireStudio Project channel one and turn on 48V phantom
power if needed for your microphone (typically only for condenser microphones.)
2) Enter the File menu and select ‘New Project’.
You can also use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl+N.
3) Select ‘Empty’ when prompted for a Template.
Click ‘OK’.
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O P ER ATIO N
4) Right-click in the track space within the new
project and select ‘Add Audio Track’ from the
dropdown menu which appears.
You can also add a track by entering the Project
menu and selecting ‘Add Track’.
5) When the Add Audio Track dialogue appears,
choose the number of Audio Tracks you wish to
add, whether they will be Mono or Stereo and then
click ‘OK’.
If you have two audio signals making up a stereo
pair (i.e. keyboard, FX processor, cd player, etc.),
you should use a Stereo Configuration.
Otherwise, if you have a single, mono audio source
(i.e. microphone or instrument), you will want to
choose a Mono Configuration.
6) Click the Record Enable button to arm the new
track for recording.
7) Click the Monitor button to hear the input through
the FireStudio Project’s 1/2 and Main CR outputs.
8) Select FireStudio Project input ‘Stereo In > Left’.
When choosing a mono from a stereo pair, the
“left” channel is typically the odd-numbered
channel, and the “right” channel is typically the
even-numbered channel (i.e. Left is 1; Right is 2).
Press <F4> on your keyboard to enter the VST
Connections menu for more details on your
specific input and output routing.
9) Turn up the gain control knob on the front panel of the FireStudio Project for channel 1 while
speaking/singing into the microphone or playing your instrument. You should see the input meter in
Cubase LE react to the input. Adjust the gain so the input level is near its maximum without clipping.
10) Connect a set of headphones to the FireStudio Project headphone output. You may also wish to connect
monitors to the FireStudio Project’s Main Outs.
11) You are now ready to record.
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O P ER ATIO N
2.2 SAMPLE HOOK UP DIAGRAM
With the FireStudio Project, you can simultaneously record and play back up to 10 channels. Since it is loaded
with eight preamplifiers, you can plug in eight microphones to the FireStudio Project along with S/PDIF digital
input to record a full band. This makes recording extremely easy. All you need are a few microphones, some
cables to connect them, a musician (or two or three or more) and the creative energy to bring it all together.
This is a typical rock band setup. Your needs may vary depending upon the number and variety of sources you
are recording. Feel free to adapt the sample setup below to your precise needs.
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O P ER ATIO N
2.3 MICROPHONES
The FireStudio Project works with many microphones including dynamic, ribbon and condenser microphones.
2.3.1 Condenser
Condenser microphones tend to generate a high-quality audio signal and are one of the most popular mic
choices for today’s studio recording applications. Because of their design technology, condenser microphones
require a power source, which can be provided from a small battery, external power supply or from
microphone inputs as phantom power. The FireStudio Project sends phantom power over XLR inputs only.
2.3.2 Dynamic
Dynamic microphones are possibly the most widely used microphone type – especially in live shows. They are
relatively inexpensive, resistant to physical damage and typically handle high sound pressure levels (SPL)
very well. Unlike condenser microphones, dynamic microphones do not require a power source and, in most
cases, has no effect on a dynamic microphone’s audio quality or sensitivity.
Dynamic microphones, especially ribbon microphones, tend to generate low output voltages, so they typically
need more preamp gain than a condenser microphone.
Ribbon
Ribbon microphones are a special type of dynamic microphone and get their name from the thin metal ribbon
used in their design. Ribbon microphones have very high quality sound reproduction qualities – especially
higher frequencies sounds. However, they are very fragile and typically cannot handle high SPL’s.
The most important thing to note about Ribbon microphones is that nearly all Ribbon Microphones do NOT
require phantom power. In fact, unless a Ribbon microphone specifically calls for phantom power, sending
phantom power to a ribbon microphone will destroy it – usually beyond repair.
2.3.3 USB and other types
There are a vast number of microphone types available, and as technology increases, it is very likely more will
surface. One type of microphone to emerge recently is the USB microphone. Most USB microphones have
their own built-in preamp and use drivers separate from the FireStudio Project drivers.
If you are using a new or non-standard type of microphone (i.e., USB, headset, laser, MEMS, etc.), please
consult your microphone’s user’s manual for power requirement or compatibility information.
Regardless of the microphone type you are using, we recommend reading your microphone’s user’s manual
thoroughly before engaging phantom power or if any other usage questions may arise.
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O P ER ATIO N
2.4 USING THE PREAMP OUTPUT AND LINE INPUT AS AN INSERT
The FireStudio Project features ¼” TRS balanced Send and Return jacks on Channels 1 and 2. These jacks are
labeled as Preamp Output (Send) and Line Input (Return). These connectors allow the use of external
processors such as compressors, limiters, EQ’s, de-essers, etc. Simply connect the Preamp Output jack to the
line input of your external processor. Then connect the line output of the external processor to the Line Input 1
or 2 of the FireStudio Project. The input signal from channel 1 and/or 2 is now routed out of the FireStudio
Project into the external processor and back into the FireStudio Project. The final, processed signal can now be
recorded using channel 1 or 2.
NOTES:
The line inputs on channels 1 and 2 are normalled to the channel 1 & 2 preamp outputs, so take precedence over
the corresponding combination Mic/Instrument input on the front of the FireStudio Project. (I.E., if a cable is
plugged into channel one line input on the rear of the FireStudio Project, the channel one Mic/Instrument input
will be inactive until the cable is removed from line input one.)
The Preamp Outputs are not connected to the DAC (digital to analogue converters) in any way and so are only
capable of routing the input signals from channels 1 & 2. If you need to route recorded audio or input from
channels 3-8, you will need to use your recording software and one or more of the Line Outputs.
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C O N TR O LS AN D C O N N EC TIO N S
3.1 PRESONUS FIRECONTROL SOFTWARE
The FireControl is a powerful, flexible and easy to use solution for creating multiple mixes from your inputs and
DAW playback streams with zero latency. It allows you to create a zero-latency mix with up to 18 of your input
and output signals for each of your FireStudio Project’s output pairs.
The FireControl also acts as the FireStudio Project’s control panel with the ability to change various hardware
and software settings of the FireStudio Project hardware and drivers.
The Mixer section of the FireControl was designed to look and ‘feel’ like a hardware mixer, so most of the
features may already be familiar to you. The following section describes in detail the FireControl layout and the
functions of the various buttons found in the FireControl.
3.1.1 FireControl Application Icon
Once you have successfully installed your FireStudio Project, the FireControl will
be available from the Notification Area of your taskbar (typically at the bottom
right corner of your screen near the clock).
The FireControl icon is red when your FireStudio Project is disconnected or not installed and blue when the
FireStudio Project is connected and properly installed.
Open the FireControl by double-clicking the blue FireControl icon or by right-clicking the icon and selecting
“Open PreSonus FireControl”.
Right-click the FireControl icon and select “Quit” to completely exit the FireControl
application and remove it from your Taskbar.
Mac OS X users will find the FireControl application in the Applications folder.
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C O N TR O LS AN D C O N N EC TIO N S
3.1.2 FireControl Master Section
The Master Section is always visible and gives you control over the FireStudio Project’s outputs’ source and
level as well as the Sample Rate and Buffer Size of the FireStudio drivers.
Output Select Section
Changes the Output Mixer displayed
•
•
•
Output Select Buttons
Mixer Toggle Buttons
Post Fader Output Meters
The FireControl has five output mixes – one for each of the
FireStudio Project’s five outputs.
Enables or disables the associated Output’s mixer
When set to ‘PlayBack’, the output pair’s DAW playback
outputs are routed directly to it.
Displays the output level of each stereo pair
These meter post fader levels, which means they represent
the actual audio output levels of your FireStudio Project.
Hardware Settings Section
•
•
•
•
Sample Rate Selector
Buffer Size Selector
Clock Source Selector
Resizing Corner
Changes FireStudio Project Sample Rate
A Higher Sample Rate increases frequency range and sonic
accuracy but also increases recorded audio file sizes.
Changes the FireStudio Project Buffer Size
This selector is not present in Mac OS X.
A large buffer increases latency but is more stable.
Changes the FireStudio Project Clock Source
The ‘S/PDIF’ option is used to slave the FireStudio
Project to an external device via S/PDIF.
Resizes the width of the FireControl
Click and drag the bottom right corner of the FireControl
to resize its width on your screen and increase / decrease
the number of channels visible in the Mixer.
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C O N TR O LS AN D C O N N EC TIO N S
Master Output Section
•
Master Output Fader
Changes the selected output’s audio level
Move the Master Fader up and down to increase and
decrease the level of the selected output’s audio.
The dB value of boost or attenuation is displayed below the
Channel Fader from –infinity to 0.0 dB.
Two virtual LED meters to the right of the Master Fader
display the pre fader levels of the audio signal.
The peak value in dBFS of the channel’s audio is displayed
directly above the Master Output’s virtual LED meter.
NOTE: If the peak values display “CLIP”, then your
Mixer channels and/or your DAW playback levels
should be reduced. The clip indicators clear when
the mouse pointer hovers over them.
•
Master Mute and Solo Clear
Clears all active channel Mutes or Solos
The Master Mute and Solo clear buttons are only active
when a channel’s mute or solo button is active.
3.1.3 FireControl Mixer
The FireControl Mixer allows you to create a customized mix of up to 18 of the FireStudio Project’s
hardware inputs and software playback outputs and adjust their levels independently for each of the
FireStudio Project’s stereo output pairs with zero latency. The Mixer section is only visible if the selected
output pair’s Mixer Toggle is on.
NOTE: The Mixer is common to all of the FireStudio Project’s outputs, so if you add or remove a channel
from the Mixer, every output with the Mixer Toggle on will be affected by the change.
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C O N TR O LS AN D C O N N EC TIO N S
These are the individual elements of the Mixer and their functions:
•
Channel Pan Sliders
Link Buttons
Moves the channel’s audio left/right in the stereo field
Double-clicking the slider returns the pan to center.
Links the adjacent channels as a stereo pair
•
When channels are linked, changing either channel’s level
changes both, and pan states are hard left/right.
•
Channel Faders
Changes the channel’s audio level
Move the Channel Fader up and down to increase and
decrease the channel’s audio level.
The dB value of boost or attenuation is displayed below the
Channel Fader from –infinity to +6 dB.
A virtual LED meter to the right of each fader displays the
post fader level of the channel’s audio.
The peak value in dBFS of the channel’s audio is displayed
directly above each channel’s virtual LED meter.
Adds the channel to the Mute or Solo bus
•
•
Channel Mutes and Solos
Channel Scroll Bar
Muting a channel silences the channel’s audio.
Soloing a channel mutes all other non-soloed channels.
Changes the visible channels if the FireStudio is resized
When the FireControl is resized to show less than 18
channels, click in the scroll bar area to slide the channels
left and right and view the hidden channels.
Changes the source of the FireControl Mixer channels
•
Input Selectors
Choosing “No Input” will hide the channel.
“Inputs” are your hardware inputs (Mic/Inst/Line/SPDIF).
“PlayBack” are your software DAW PlayBack outputs.
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C O N TR O LS AN D C O N N EC TIO N S
3.1.4 FireControl Menus
•
Session. Allows you to Save and Load the FireControl Mixer and Output settings
o
o
Load Session... Loads a saved FireControl session file
Save Session... Saves the FireControl Mixer and Output settings for loading later
•
Advanced. Gives additional options specific to Windows functionality.
o
o
Sample Rate Lock Mode. Sets which types of applications can change the Sample Rate.
ƒ
ƒ
ƒ
Unlock. Any WDM or ASIO application can change the Sample Rate.
Lock WDM/Windows. Only ASIO applications can change the Sample Rate.
Lock WDM and ASIO. Only the FireControl can change the Sample Rate.
Enable WDM Audio. Unchecking this disables WDM audio in Windows. Disabling WDM
Audio is useful when the FireStudio Project is dedicated for DAW use only.
o
Operation Mode. Changes how the FireStudio drivers output buffer size is set.
ƒ
ƒ
Normal Mode. Input and Output buffers are both identical to the Buffer Size.
Safe Mode 1-3. Increases the output buffer size for added stability.
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C O N TR O LS AN D C O N N EC TIO N S
3.2 FRONT PANEL LAYOUT
FIRESTUDIO™
10X10 FireWire Interface | 8 XMAX Preamps | 96kHz | MIDI I/O | S/PDIF I/O | Digital Mixer
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
Mic Instrument
Mic Line
•
Microphone Pre-Amplifier. Your FireStudio Project is equipped with eight custom designed PreSonus
X-MAX microphone preamplifiers for use with all types of microphones including Dynamics, Condensers
and Ribbons as well as instruments and line level signals. The award winning PreSonus preamplifier
design is a Class A input buffer followed by a dual servo gain stage. This arrangement results in ultra
low noise and wide gain control allowing the FireStudio Project user to boost desirable signal without
increasing unwanted background noise.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
48V
1/ 2
48V
3/ 4
48V
5/ 6
48V
7/ 8
0dB
-6dB
-40dB
0dB
-6dB
-40dB
0dB
-6dB
-40dB
o
48 Volt Phantom Power. The FireStudio Project has 48V Phantom power available in groups
of two via push button switches on the front panel. From left to right, each button activates
Phantom power for channels 1&2, 3&4, 5&6 and 7&8.
ƒ
XLR connector wiring for Phantom Power
•
•
•
Pin 1 = GND
Pin 2 = +48V
Pin 3 = +48V
o
o
+22dBu Headroom. The FireStudio Project microphone preamplifier has +22 dBu headroom.
This feature gives you wide dynamic range and excellent transient response characteristics.
Neutrik Combo Connectors. Each channel of the FireStudio Project has a Mic/Line connector
using the Neutrik Combo connector. This revolutionary style connector lets you use either ¼”
phone or XLR connectors in the same female input. The first two channels of the FireStudio
Project are ¼” instrument and microphone XLR inputs. The line level inputs for these two
channels are on the back panel of the FireStudio Project.
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C O N TR O LS AN D C O N N EC TIO N S
FIRESTUDIO™
1
2
Mic Instrument
•
Instrument Inputs (Channels 1 and 2). The ¼” TS connector on channels 1 and 2 are for use with an
instrument (guitar, bass, etc.). When an instrument is plugged into the instrument input, the
microphone preamp is bypassed, and the FireStudio Project becomes an active instrument preamplifier.
NOTE: Active instruments are those that have an internal preamp or a line level output. Active
instruments should be plugged into a line input rather than into an instrument input. Plugging a line
level source into the instrument inputs on the front of the FireStudio Project not only risks damage to
these inputs but also results in a very loud and often distorted audio signal.
(In other words, don’t plug a line level source into the combo jacks of channel 1 or 2.)
0 160
0 260
0 360
0 460
0 560
0 660
0 760
0 860
-10
+30
-10
+30
-20
+20
-20
+20
-2 0
+20
-20
+20
-20
+20
-20
+20
•
Input Gain/Trim Control. These knobs provide the following gain structure:
o
o
o
XLR Microphone Inputs. 54 dB of variable gain (-4 dB to +50 dB)
TS ¼ ” Instrument/Hi-Z Inputs. 54 dB of variable gain (-4 dB to +50 dB)
TRS ¼ ” Line Inputs. 32 dB of variable gain (-16 dB to +16 dB trim adjustment)
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
48V
48V
3/ 4
48V
5/ 6
48V
7/ 8
0dB
-6dB
-40dB
0dB
-6dB
-40dB
0dB
-6dB
-40dB
1/ 2
•
LED Meters / Clip Indicator. Each channel features three LED level indicators. The green LED will
light up when your input signal from the XLR (Mic) or ¼” (line) reaches -40 dBFS. The yellow LED
will light up when the channel’s input signal reaches -6 dBFS (+4 dBu). The red clip indicator LED
will illuminate when the channel’s input signal reaches 0 dBFS. At this level, your mic preamp/line trim
signal will exhibit signs of clipping such as distortion. It is highly recommended you do not allow your
converters to clip (the red clip indicators to light up) as the sound quality will not be desirable.
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C O N TR O LS AN D C O N N EC TIO N S
1
Phon1e1s
-8M0 ai1n0
•
•
Main. The Main knob controls the output level for the Main Outputs on the back of the FireStudio
Project with a range of -80 db to +10 dB.
Phones. The Phones knob controls the amount of volume going to the headphone output on the front of
the unit. Notice the volume indicator goes to 11 … use this setting with extreme caution.
•
•
¼ ” Headphone Jack. This is where you connect your headphones to the FireStudio Project.
Red-Blue Power/Sync Light. This light is a clock source (sync) indicator. It lets you know if your unit
is receiving word clock correctly. Word clock is the manner by which digital devices sync frame rates.
Proper word clock sync prevents digital devices from having pops, clicks or distortion in the audio
signal due to mismatched digital audio transmission.
o
o
Blue. FireStudio Project is correctly synced via FireWire or S/PDIF
Flashing Red and Blue. Sync invalid or not present
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C O N TR O LS AN D C O N N EC TIO N S
3.3 BACK PANEL LAYOUT
•
•
Power Adaptor Input. This is where you plug the provide IEC power cable into the FireStudio Project.
Power Switch. Push the top part of the switch to turn your FireStudio Project on ( | ). Push the
bottom part of the switch to turn your FireStudio Project off ( O ).
•
FireWire Ports. There are two standard 6-pin FireWire ports on the back of the FireStudio Project.
Either (and only one) should be used to connect your FireStudio Project to a vacant FireWire port on
your computer. If your computer has a 4-pin connector (commonly found on laptops), you will need a 4
to 6-pin connector to connect your FireStudio Project to your computer.
Use the ‘extra’ FireWire port to connect additional FireWire devices in such as external Hard Drives.
•
•
S/PDIF In and Out Jacks. These allow the FireStudio Project to receive and transmit audio from other
digital audio devices. The S/PDIF standard allows two channels of audio to be transmitted at rates up
to 24bit/96kHz. The S/PDIF input also allows the FireStudio Project to receive Word Clock – the
synchronizing signal indicating the sampling frequency or rate of sample words over a digital interface.
You should select ‘S/PDIF’ as the Clock Source in the FireControl when using the S/PDIF input.
MIDI In and Out Ports. MIDI stands for “Musical Instrument Digital Interface”. However, the MIDI
standard goes well beyond just instrumentation and sequencing. The MIDI inputs and outputs allow
connection and/or communication with external MIDI equipment. One function of this port is MIDI
programming. These can also be used for MMC (MIDI Machine Control) and MTC (MIDI Time Code).
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NOTE: MIDI is not audio but is frequently used to trigger or control an audio source (such as a VST
plugin or synthesizer). When using MIDI, ensure your MIDI data is correctly sent and received
by the appropriate hardware or software instruments. You may also need to return those
devices’ audio to the FireStudio Project. Please consult the User’s Manual of your MIDI
devices for help with MIDI setup and usage.
•
•
Main Output. The audio source for the Main Outs is identical to that of General Purpose outputs 1 & 2
(DAW Playback 1 & 2 by default). The difference is that the output level of the Main Outputs is
controlled by the FireStudio Project Main volume knob on the front of the unit.
General Purpose Line Outputs (TRS Balanced). These are general purpose line-level outputs. Line
Outputs 1 & 2 are typically your computer’s audio playback. All eight Line Outputs can be accessed by
your computer and can be used for separate mixes, additional speakers, external effects processors, etc.
NOTE: By default, the General Purpose Outputs are DAW Playback 1-8 streams from your computer.
However, the FireControl has final control over their audio sources.
•
•
Line Inputs. These are the line-level inputs for channels 1 & 2. Their gain structure is identical to the
¼” inputs for channels 3-8 and are typically used for signals not requiring preamplification (like
CD/MP3 players, effects processors, etc.) These inputs are normalled to the channel 1 & 2 preamp
outputs so take precedence over the corresponding Mic/Instrument input on the front of the FireStudio
Project. (I.E., if a cable is plugged into channel one line input on the rear of the FireStudio Project,
the channel one Mic/Instrument input will be inactive until the cable is removed from line input one.)
Preamp Outputs. These ¼” jacks are balanced outputs of the preamps on channels 1 & 2. They are
half-normalled to the line inputs 1 & 2, so plugging a cable into either of the preamp outputs does not
interrupt the signal flow from the preamp outputs to the line inputs (and to the ADC).
NOTE: The Preamp Outputs are typically used for patching in external signal processors such as
compressors, limiters, EQ’s, de-essers, etc. to the audio signals on channels 1 or 2. These Preamp
Outputs are not connected to the DAC (digital to analogue converters) in any way and so are only
capable of routing the input signals from channels 1 & 2. If you need to route recorded audio or input
from channels 3-8, you will need to use your recording software and one or more of the Line Outputs.
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TEC H N IC AL IN FO R M ATIO N
4.1 TROUBLESHOOTING
Please note that many technical issues can arise when converting a standard computer into a DAW (Digital
Audio Workstation). PreSonus will only provide support for issues that directly relate to the FireStudio Project
interface. It may be necessary to contact the manufacturer of the computer, operating system and/or software to
obtain additional technical support. PreSonus does not provide support for issues in regards to operating
systems, additional hardware or software. Please check our website, www.PreSonus.com regularly for software
information and updates, firmware updates and technical support. Technical assistance may also be received by
calling PreSonus at 225-216-7887 between the hours of 10 am and 5 PM Central Time.
Pops and Clicks
Pops and clicks in either your Input or Playback audio are typically caused by momentary losses of
synchronization between the FireStudio Project and its clock source. This can be due to a FireWire card not
suited for FireWire audio devices or to a lack of CPU power or available memory. Try closing all unnecessary
programs, increasing the Buffer Size in the FireControl and optimizing your operating system for audio.
Pops and clicks exclusive to the S/PDIF input or output are typically caused when the FireStudio Project is not
digitally synced to the external S/PDIF device. If this is the case, ensure your FireStudio Project and external
S/PDIF device are properly synced. Please consult your S/PDIF device’s User’s Manual for more details on
syncing it to your FireStudio Project.
Flashing Sync Light
The FireStudio Project’s Sync light flashes red and blue when it is not synced. Check the FireWire cable to
ensure it hasn’t become disconnected. If you are using an external S/PDIF device and your Clock Source is set
to “S/PDIF”, set the FireControl’s Sample Rate to the same Sample Rate as that of your S/PDIF device. If you
are not using an external S/PDIF device, open the FireControl and set the Clock Source to “Internal”.
Audio Drop Outs
Audio drop outs can occur when the speed of your processor cannot buffer audio fast enough. Increase your
Buffer Size in the FireControl and try the different Operation Modes from the Advanced menu.
Preamplifier
Q: I have a microphone plugged into channel one (or two) but I am not getting any signal.
Possible Solutions:
1) Check your mic cable. This should typically be an XLR connection.
2) Make sure the microphone does not require phantom power. If it does, press the 48V button.
3) Make sure nothing is plugged into the line input on the rear of the FireStudio Project. The line inputs
on channels 1 and 2 take precedence over the combo input on the front of the unit for channels 1 and 2.
If a cable is plugged into the line input on channel, then the mic/instrument input on channel one will be
inactive until the cable is removed from line input 1.
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TEC H N IC AL IN FO R M ATIO N
4.2 SPECIFICATIONS
Microphone Preamp
Type ............................................................................................................................. XLR Female Balanced
Frequency Response (±0.5 dB) ............................................................................................... 20 Hz to 50 kHz
Frequency Response (±3.0 dB) ............................................................................................. 20 Hz to 150 kHz
Input Impedance (Balanced) ................................................................................................................ 1600 Ω
THD+N (unwtd, 1 kHz @ +4 dBu Output, Unity Gain) ..................................................................... < 0.003%
EIN (unwtd, 55dB Gain, 150 Ω Input, 20Hz to 22 kHz) .................................................................... -126 dBu
S/N Ratio (Unity Gain, unwtd, Ref. = +4 dBu, 20Hz to 22 kHz) ........................................................ > 101 dB
Common Mode Rejection Ratio (1 kHz, 55 dB Gain) ........................................................................... > 55 dB
Gain Control Range (± 1dB) .................................................................................................... -4 dB to 50 dB
Maximum Input Level (Unity Gain, 1 kHz @ 0.5% THD+N) .............................................................. +14 dBu
Signal Level LEDs
Red / Clip (±0.5 dBu) .......................................................................... +10 dBu (0 dBFS)
Yellow (±0.5 dBu) ............................................................................... +4 dBu (-6 dBFS)
Green (±0.5 dBu) .............................................................................. -30 dBu (-40 dBFS)
Phantom Power (±2 VDC) ................................................................................................................ +48 VDC
Instrument Input (channels 1 & 2 only)
Type .................................................................................................................... ¼” TRS Female Unbalanced
Input Impedance .................................................................................................................................... 1 MΩ
Line Inputs
Type ....................................................................................................................... ¼” TRS Female Balanced
Frequency Response (±0.5 dB) ............................................................................................... 20 Hz to 50 kHz
Frequency Response (±3.0 dB) ............................................................................................. 20 Hz to 150 kHz
Input Impedance (Balanced) ................................................................................................................. 10 KΩ
THD+N (unwtd, 1 kHz @ +4 dBu Output, Unity Gain) ..................................................................... < 0.003%
S/N Ratio (Unity Gain, unwtd, Ref. = +4 dBu, 20 Hz to 22 kHz) ....................................................... > 101 dB
Gain Control Range (±1 dB) ................................................................................................ -16 dB to +16 dB
Maximum Input Level (Unity Gain, 1 kHz @ 0.5% THD+N) .............................................................. +10 dBu
Maximum Input Level (Minimum Gain, 1 kHz @ 0.5% THD+N) ........................................................ +22 dBu
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TEC H N IC AL IN FO R M ATIO N
Line Outputs (including Preamp Output, General Purpose Outputs and Main Outputs)
Type .................................................................................................................................... ¼” TRS Balanced
Output Impedance .................................................................................................................................... 51 Ω
Headphone Output
Type ............................................................................................................................. ¼” TRS Active Stereo
Maximum Output ..................................................................................................... 150 mW/Ch @ 60 Ω Load
Frequency Response (±1.0 dB) ................................................................................................ 10 Hz – 70 kHz
Digital Audio
ADC Dynamic Range (Awtd, 48 kHz Sample Rate) ............................................................................... 114 dB
DAC Dynamic Range (Awtd, 48 kHz Sample Rate) ............................................................................... 114 dB
Bit Depth .................................................................................................................................................... 24
Reference Level for 0dBFS ................................................................................................................ +10 dBu
Internal Sample Frequency Selections (kHz) ....................................................................... 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96
External Sample Frequency Input ........................................................................................................ S/PDIF
Power
Input Connector Type ................................................................................................................................ IEC
Input Voltage Range ................................................................................................................ 90 to 230 VAC
Power Requirements (Continuous) ............................................................................................................ 20W
As a commit ment t o const a nt impr ovement , P r eS onus Audio E lect r onics, I nc. r eser ves t he
r ight t o cha nge a ny specifica t ion st a t ed her ein a t a ny t ime wit hout not ifica t ion.
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