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6.1
USER MANUAL
User Manual
User Manual

Table of Contents

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Summary

1 Introduction

Installation

Information regarding the Pyramix Installation Guide and Hardware Installation Guides.

MassCore

Description of MassCore, a deterministic real-time engine for Pyramix.

Pyramix Virtual Studio Overview

Overview of Pyramix Virtual Studio as a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW).

2 MassCore

Overview

Description of MassCore as a powerful Pyramix option, avoiding OS restrictions and latencies.

Core Load Indicators

Explanation of Core Load indicators replacing DSP indicators in the Title Bar.

Overload Diagnosis and Cures

Guidance on diagnosing and curing overloads indicated by the CORE or VST indicators.

Pyramix Latency Modes for MassCore

Table showing Pyramix V6 Latency Modes for MassCore, including relative performance penalties.

4 Media Management & Libraries

Search

Using Pyramix's comprehensive search tools with Library views and Media Manager.

Media Management

The Media Menu gathers significant Media related commands for the current Project.

Media Management and Library Tab Windows

Determining displayed columns in Libraries and Media Management window via Columns dialog.

The Trimmer

Shows/hides Composition/Media Trimmer. Objects highlighted in list view automatically open in trimmer.

5 Tracks and Track Groups

Tracks

Each Project has a user defined number of audio Tracks for audio Clips or inputs.

Track Header Panel

Panel containing buttons and information fields for each track.

Automation Tracks

Overlays automation curves on Audio Tracks, with Automation Sub-Tracks for multiple parameters.

Tracks Tab Window

Shows track information and function selection fields, allowing creation/deletion and reordering.

Track Envelope and Static Gain

Methods for varying Clip gain: Static Gain and Envelope.

6 Transport and Navigation

Transport Control

Features a wide range of transport control commands, including Reverse Play and Play at fractions.

Navigation

Offers a number of ways of navigating around a Project.

Markers

Pyramix has several types of Marker: Track Group, Media, CD and SACD Markers.

Transport Controls

Transport Bar combines Transport Controls, Chase and Capture Offset buttons, and Counter.

7 Recording and Acquisition

Getting Audio into Pyramix Virtual Studio

Four primary methods: record to Timeline, Digitizing Session, Background Recorders, import files.

Check Sync

Check Pyramix and audio source synchronization before recording.

Recording Audio into a Pyramix Virtual Studio Project

Steps to start a new Project, set sample rate, sync source, and configure record settings.

Track Record Modes

Explanation of each Track's tri-state Record Ready toggle button: Play, Record Ready, Record Punch In.

AutoPunch Mode

AutoPunch when Chasing TimeCode and Recording from a tape with Discontinuous TimeCode.

Safety Record Mode

Pyramix equipped with Safe Record mode for Internal Machine, activated via Machines > Safety Record.

Set-up and Operation

Setup of Background Recorders in Settings; operation via Transport window or Controls.

Background Recorder Transport Control Panel

Panel for controlling Background Recorder: title bar, upper section, controls, and notes.

Edit while Recording

Allows editing of recorded files in Timeline while recording continues; possible in non-dubbing mode.

Take Logger

Controls any available recorder (Active Project or Background Recorder) with keyboard shortcuts.

Importing Audio Files into Pyramix Virtual Studio

Combining different file types and sample rates; mounting Media Folders.

Digitizing Sessions

Special Pyramix Project type for efficiently loading audio material into Pyramix.

Manual Digitizing

Step-by-step guide for manual digitizing, including media folder, data, input, take name, and audit.

8 Editing

Editing in the Timeline

The Timeline is where audio Clips are edited, faded, and arranged into a digital audio Composition.

Clips and Compositions

Clips in Composition are pointers to original audio Media File; actions affect only the Composition.

Anatomy of a Clip

Edit Commands refer to parts of a Clip: Head, Tail, Sync Point, Trim Handle, Fade Handles, Waveform.

Clip and Selection Editing

Master Clips appear as blocks in the Timeline, editable without affecting underlying media.

Selection Tab Window

Groups Selection, Clip and Media Properties fields; modifiable parameters marked with '>'.

Clip Fade Commands

Includes Fade In, Fade Out, and X Fade sub-menus with options like New, Edit, Default, Standard.

Splitting Clips and Regions

Splitting Clips (Ctrl+T) or Regions (Edit > Split) into new independent Clips.

Editing Context Menu

Right-clicking in Timeline opens context menu with extensive editing options.

Jog-Wheel Editing

Editing actions on selected Clips/groups using a jog-wheel on external hardware controller.

Auto Silence Removal

Operates by scanning Selection to remove regions below threshold, meeting Silence criteria.

EDL Tab Window

Textual and numeric representation of Timeline/Fade Editor information, editable.

The Placement Tool

Flexible paste option with various placement choices from Edit menu or pop-up menu.

Source - Destination Editing

Powerful method for viewing/editing material, applicable to multi-track takes into one ideal take.

9 Fade Editor

Fade Editor Tab Window

Offers methods for creating fades/cross-fades graphically or via faders/buttons/numeric data.

The Graphical Display

Consists of TimeCode scale, Reference Point, Track names, scrollbars, and fade curves.

The Faders & Control Section

Contains controls and displays for fades, including Fade Safe, Memory Sets, Gain Faders, etc.

10 Mixer

Overview

Pyramix Mixer: powerful tool kit with extensive components, routing, and automation possibilities.

Mix!

Operational Mixer user interface page, divided vertically and horizontally.

Configure Page

Allows multiple changes to mixer without rebuild until exit; synchronized creation/deletion.

Effect Management

Expands Effects section for managing effects on strips and buses.

Secondary Audio Device Host Mode

Uses onboard sound card or external ASIO device as Secondary Audio Device for Pyramix.

11 Monitor

Monitor! Window

Dedicated Monitor section with comprehensive monitoring facilities.

Monitor! page

Window divided into three sections: Sources, Main area, and Output.

Configure page

Enables multiple Speaker Sets, each with multiple down-mixes, to be created and edited.

External Inputs

Adding external devices as monitor returns from studio's fixed external audio devices.

Talkback

Talkback facilities provided in Monitor section for studios without separate talkback system.

Setting Up

Talkback Page allows adding Studios (Destinations) and Talkbacks (Sources).

12 Meter Bridge

Meter Bridge

Dedicated Meter Bridge window for Input strips and Buses.

Configuring the Meter Bridge

Opening Mixer Bridge and Display panel to configure settings.

Meter Settings

Opens MeterBridge Settings window with Timing and Align.ment tabs.

DSD Filtering options

Three filtering options to ensure DSD signal compatibility with AES recommendations.

Phase-Oscillo (stereo mix only)

Combines phase meter and X/Y oscilloscope with display modes.

Surround Monitor (surround mix only)

Gives indication of energy distribution in surround sound field with colour code for phase issues.

13 Final Check Metering

Final Check Metering

Optional plug-in for precision metering, bringing tools to ensure masters conform to standards.

Final Check Window

Window with two tabbed pages: Metering and Setup.

Metering Tab

Divided between upper Stereo-panel and lower Surround-panel.

Loudness and Peak Metering

ITU-R 1770-1 recommendation for Peak and Loudness measurement.

Loudness Algorithm

Goal is numerical expression of overall loudness listener feels, expressed in LUFS.

True Peak Detector

Detects peaks occurring between samples, able to detect peaks over 0dBFS.

Setup

Final Check Metering Setup Tab for configuring meters and presets.

14 Effects and Plug-Ins

Effects and Plug-ins

Describes individual effects and components as applied in Pyramix Mixer.

VS3 Plug-In Support

Table showing VS3 Plug-ins support in Pyramix 8.x and their latency compensation.

Effects Presets

Right-clicking in Plug-in window pops up contextual menu for Reset, Recalled, Stored, Removed.

Effects Automation

VS3 Plug-in parameters can be automated dynamically, same as Mixer controls.

Parametric EQ

Four band fully parametric EQ with independent control of Filter Type, Gain, Frequency, Q.

10 Bands EQ

Ten band graphic equalizer with +/-24dB boost/cut per band, variable Q.

Dynamics Processing

Comprehensive module: gate, expander, two compressors, limiter, de-esser.

Thresholds

Controls level above/below which plug-in affects dynamics; settings for Gate, Expander, Compressor.

Delay

Provides four delay-based effects: Delay, Echo, Comb Filter, All Pass Filter.

Flanger

Produces characteristic sound by time modulating signal and feeding back in phase or reversed.

AnguDion II

Features Wide, Sub, linkable Input/Output gain, Velocity, Amount rotaries, Stooge, Angel, Tricky options.

M&S Stereo Strips

What is M&S? Technique outputting Sum and Difference signals instead of Left/Right.

HORUS Preamp Remote Controls

Remote control of analog preamps available in Pyramix Mixer when HORUS I/O is used.

Creating and Configuring Mixers

Modify existing mixer, create using Mixer Wizard, or design from scratch.

Mixer Delay Compensation

Offers choice between Full and Off for Mixer Delay Compensation.

Configuring a Blank or Existing Mixer

Mixer configuration via Configure Page, Route Page, or contextual menus.

Native VS3 Plug-ins

Adds native plug-ins like eq and dynamics; right-click mouse over strip to add.

Mixer Surround Components

Surround panner appears on Input Strips when a Surround Bus is added.

15 Automation

Master Automation Transport Controls

Controls for Global Dynamic Automation Modes: On/Off, Read, Write, Preview, Snapshot.

Dynamic Automation Levels

Two levels of automation: Level 1 (per Strip) and Level 2 (per component, Bus, Mixer).

Automation Editing

Editing data exists independently of Clips; treated according to Edit > Automation Editing sub-menu.

16 Strip and Bus Tools

Strip and Bus Tools

Quick way to add EQ, Compression, Limiter, Expander functions to channels and buses.

Sections

Strip Tools contain Input Level, Dynamics, Expander, Equalizer, Output sections.

Dynamics Section

Contains compressor, can be switched to decompressor; includes controls for Attack/Release/Hold.

Equalizer section

Five band fully parametric equalizer with adjustable characteristics.

Bus Tools

Similar to Strip Tools, designed for buses; includes mastering processing blocks and limiter.

IMPORTANT! Pre-Anticipation (PA) and Delay Compensation (DC)

Delay compensation adds delay to channels not selected for processing.

Delay Compensation; Pre-Anticipation

Explanation and example of delay compensation for signals passing through Bus Tools.

17 Project Processes

Dither

Removes extra bits after processing to suit delivery standards; avoids audible distortion.

Mixing Down Projects

Exporting a Composition to an audio file, similar to mixing down.

Consolidating Projects

Reduces storage space by selectively backing up media used in the Composition.

Process Plug-ins

Finds Glitches and Pops using Digital Glitch Detector.

Dirac

Optional high quality pitch-shift and time-stretch renderer from The DSP Dimension.

18 File and Project Interchange

File Interchange - Formats

Table of Pyramix Supported Audio Files: PMF, PMF (DXD), WAV, BWF, AIF, SD2, PMI, OMF, MXF, AVI, MOV, DSDIFF.

PMF

Pyramix Media File: native format, 64bit addressing, no 2GB limit, proprietary metadata.

Project Interchange

Pyramix Project Interchange Options for Clip and Marker Support.

Import; Export

Import and Export handled by InterChange; opens Import/Export windows.

AAF

Pyramix imports/exports projects in AAF (Advanced Authoring Format).

19 Customizing Pyramix

Customizing the User Interface

Pyramix allows customization of UI: Interface Editors, Workspaces, Keyboard Shortcuts, Macros.

Customizing Keyboard Shortcuts

Learn default shortcuts or create custom ones via View > Customize > Keyboard Shortcuts.

20 Applications

Project Templates

Pyramix provides Templates for various applications, configured for specific activities.

Pyramix With VCube

Sophisticated VCube video recorder/player with symbiotic relationship with Pyramix.

Dubbing Mode

Mode for film re-recording; allows Tracks Arming/Disarming while recording.

Discontinuous TimeCode

Auto-Punch mode allows automatic recording of tape with discontinuous TimeCode.

Film 24 to NTSC Sync

Settings for common scenarios for Film 24 to NTSC Sync, found in Settings > Hardware > Formats & Sync.

Working with External Machines

Pyramix controlling/controlled by external hardware like control surface or machine controller.

21 Conforming and Reconforming

Conforming

Process of making and positioning audio Cues in Timeline from Audio media files.

Importing a CMX EDL

Select Project > Import, choose CMX EDL, select EDL file, confirm Frame Rate.

Media Reconnection

Problem reconnecting to referenced media; Pyramix needs media present (mounted).

Reconform

Allows picture edit changes to be applied by loading a 'Change EDL'.

Reconforming Using Pyramix for Picture Change Detection

Use Pyramix to reconform to new version of Video Project.

Reconforming Using VCube for Picture Change Detection

Use VCube to reconform Pyramix Project to new version of Video Project.

Relink to New Media

Opens dialog offering options to relink all or selection of Clips to new media.

22 Machine Control

Control of External Device

Pyramix controls/is controlled by external hardware: control surface or machine controller.

9-pin (Sony P2 protocol)

Control external machine via 9-pin protocol; set up as external machine or remote controller.

Chase Synchronizer

Synchronize external 9-pin machines; compares TimeCode and sends transport commands.

Chase Mode

Choice of Hard, Soft, Vari Chase available in Settings > Application > Jog/Chase.

23 Remote Control

Scope

Pyramix can control/be controlled by external hardware: control surface or machine controller.

Ramses MSC

Ramses MSC with Pyramix: powerful digital mixing console, multitrack recorder.

Hardware Control Surfaces

Remote control via Oasis protocol, Proprietary protocols, EMC MIDI, or 9-pin (Sony P2 protocol).

OASIS Protocol

Generic TCP/IP protocol for integrating digital audio consoles and controllers.

24 GPI; GPO Control

GPI; GPO Support

GPI/O support available as a Remote Controller module; lists supported Sealevel models.

25 CD;SACD Mastering and Album Production

Mastering a Composition to CD-R

Set CD Track Start, Stop, and Index Markers; use DiscWrite application to burn CD-R or DDP.

CD;SACD Tab Window

Mastering features grouped in CD View: Tracks list, Album area, Tree Info, PQ Markers.

Validate PQ

Ensures PQ conforms to Red Book specifications by checks and corrections.

DDP Import

Import DDP tape or file to generate new CD image file.

Album Publishing

Online downloadable album publishing supersedes classic CD production.

26 Productivity

Locating Clips

Find Media file or files used in projects; replace instances of sound effect.

Playlists

Manage multiple takes of recording on single timeline, keeping them in layers.

Bars & Beats

Method to manage recording/edit for timing within a song, following rigid structure.

Tempo Map

Accessed by clicking Bars & Beats label in Ruler Bar; adjust length of Bar/Beat.

Tab Windows

Powerful aid to productivity; click Tab to open associated Window.

Workspaces

Method of creating presets of Timeline views and setups; parameters saved into Workspace.

Optimizing Pyramix

Tips for PC/OS setup, housekeeping, templates, and Pyramix File Format (.PMF).

DSP optimization

Strategies for optimizing DSP allocation in MassCore for large configurations.

27 Menus

Project

Options for creating, opening, saving projects, templates, archives, renders, and mixdowns.

Edit

Conventional commands: Delete, Cut, Copy, Paste; options for Undo/Redo.

Fade Editor

Commands for accepting/restoring fades, undoing changes, previous/next fade, Xify.

All Settings

Opens the Pyramix Settings Window.

28 Settings

Overview

Pyramix is configurable via Settings dialog window.

Configuration - The Settings Dialog Window

Settings dialog window brings together all Pyramix settings.

Hardware

Settings for Formats & Sync, Secondary Audio Device Bridging, MassCore, Routing, TimeCode.

Secondary Audio Device Bridging

Configure Audio Bridge options: Disable, ASIO Device Mode, Secondary Audio Device Host Mode.

MassCore

Settings for VST Plugins Engine, No of Cores, MT ASIO Bridge.

I;O Interfaces

Settings for Mykerinos, Master Board, ADAT Board, AES II Board, SDIF Board, TDIF Board.

Mixer

Settings for Level Meter, DSP Power Saving, Mixer Settings, VST Plug-ins Settings.

Application

Settings for General, Editing, Playback/Record, Jog/Chase, CD/SACD, Desktop Layout, Keys.

Automation

Optimizations, Auto-Release Options, Preview Mode Options.

Background Recorders

Settings for number of recorders, recorder color, time stamp, take name.

Remote Control

Settings for Machine, Controller, Virtual Transport 2.

29 Troubleshooting

Keeping Up To Date

Acquiring and installing latest Drivers/Firmware/BIOS/OS; exercise caution with driver updates.

Error Messages

PCI Bus Too Slow, Audio Engine Drops Warning, Playback Stalls Warning, Record Stalls Warning.

No Sound on Live Inputs

Check mute/solo status, DSP load, I/O status, sync source, sample rate, hardware connections.

ADAT Daughterboard and XDTDM

ADAT daughter card supported in HDTDM (64 I/O) and XDTDM (128 I/O) modes.

General Troubleshooting

Check Windows XP settings, hardware drivers, software updates, Merging representative.

30 Appendices

Appendix II Legacy Mykerinos I;O Daughter-card Options

ADAT Optical I/O, AES/EBU I/O, AES II with SRC, DSD mapping, MADI I/O, SDIF I/O.

Appendix III VS3 Control Panel

Separate application for setting Pyramix hardware and software parameters.

Audio Bridge

Mechanism used by Pyramix to accommodate ASIO and Rewire applications.

Appendix IV Optional Features

Pyramix DSD / DXD / SACD hardware and settings interfacing.

Project Types

DXD Mixing Project (recording, editing, mixing, processing, mastering DSD/SACD).

Appendix V 9 - Pin connection

PC RS-232 Serial Port to External Sony P2 RS-422 Controller connections.

Appendix VII - Network Connections

Ethernet connection of Workstations; DHCP settings, IP Configuration.

Summary

1 Introduction

Installation

Information regarding the Pyramix Installation Guide and Hardware Installation Guides.

MassCore

Description of MassCore, a deterministic real-time engine for Pyramix.

Pyramix Virtual Studio Overview

Overview of Pyramix Virtual Studio as a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW).

2 MassCore

Overview

Description of MassCore as a powerful Pyramix option, avoiding OS restrictions and latencies.

Core Load Indicators

Explanation of Core Load indicators replacing DSP indicators in the Title Bar.

Overload Diagnosis and Cures

Guidance on diagnosing and curing overloads indicated by the CORE or VST indicators.

Pyramix Latency Modes for MassCore

Table showing Pyramix V6 Latency Modes for MassCore, including relative performance penalties.

4 Media Management & Libraries

Search

Using Pyramix's comprehensive search tools with Library views and Media Manager.

Media Management

The Media Menu gathers significant Media related commands for the current Project.

Media Management and Library Tab Windows

Determining displayed columns in Libraries and Media Management window via Columns dialog.

The Trimmer

Shows/hides Composition/Media Trimmer. Objects highlighted in list view automatically open in trimmer.

5 Tracks and Track Groups

Tracks

Each Project has a user defined number of audio Tracks for audio Clips or inputs.

Track Header Panel

Panel containing buttons and information fields for each track.

Automation Tracks

Overlays automation curves on Audio Tracks, with Automation Sub-Tracks for multiple parameters.

Tracks Tab Window

Shows track information and function selection fields, allowing creation/deletion and reordering.

Track Envelope and Static Gain

Methods for varying Clip gain: Static Gain and Envelope.

6 Transport and Navigation

Transport Control

Features a wide range of transport control commands, including Reverse Play and Play at fractions.

Navigation

Offers a number of ways of navigating around a Project.

Markers

Pyramix has several types of Marker: Track Group, Media, CD and SACD Markers.

Transport Controls

Transport Bar combines Transport Controls, Chase and Capture Offset buttons, and Counter.

7 Recording and Acquisition

Getting Audio into Pyramix Virtual Studio

Four primary methods: record to Timeline, Digitizing Session, Background Recorders, import files.

Check Sync

Check Pyramix and audio source synchronization before recording.

Recording Audio into a Pyramix Virtual Studio Project

Steps to start a new Project, set sample rate, sync source, and configure record settings.

Track Record Modes

Explanation of each Track's tri-state Record Ready toggle button: Play, Record Ready, Record Punch In.

AutoPunch Mode

AutoPunch when Chasing TimeCode and Recording from a tape with Discontinuous TimeCode.

Safety Record Mode

Pyramix equipped with Safe Record mode for Internal Machine, activated via Machines > Safety Record.

Set-up and Operation

Setup of Background Recorders in Settings; operation via Transport window or Controls.

Background Recorder Transport Control Panel

Panel for controlling Background Recorder: title bar, upper section, controls, and notes.

Edit while Recording

Allows editing of recorded files in Timeline while recording continues; possible in non-dubbing mode.

Take Logger

Controls any available recorder (Active Project or Background Recorder) with keyboard shortcuts.

Importing Audio Files into Pyramix Virtual Studio

Combining different file types and sample rates; mounting Media Folders.

Digitizing Sessions

Special Pyramix Project type for efficiently loading audio material into Pyramix.

Manual Digitizing

Step-by-step guide for manual digitizing, including media folder, data, input, take name, and audit.

8 Editing

Editing in the Timeline

The Timeline is where audio Clips are edited, faded, and arranged into a digital audio Composition.

Clips and Compositions

Clips in Composition are pointers to original audio Media File; actions affect only the Composition.

Anatomy of a Clip

Edit Commands refer to parts of a Clip: Head, Tail, Sync Point, Trim Handle, Fade Handles, Waveform.

Clip and Selection Editing

Master Clips appear as blocks in the Timeline, editable without affecting underlying media.

Selection Tab Window

Groups Selection, Clip and Media Properties fields; modifiable parameters marked with '>'.

Clip Fade Commands

Includes Fade In, Fade Out, and X Fade sub-menus with options like New, Edit, Default, Standard.

Splitting Clips and Regions

Splitting Clips (Ctrl+T) or Regions (Edit > Split) into new independent Clips.

Editing Context Menu

Right-clicking in Timeline opens context menu with extensive editing options.

Jog-Wheel Editing

Editing actions on selected Clips/groups using a jog-wheel on external hardware controller.

Auto Silence Removal

Operates by scanning Selection to remove regions below threshold, meeting Silence criteria.

EDL Tab Window

Textual and numeric representation of Timeline/Fade Editor information, editable.

The Placement Tool

Flexible paste option with various placement choices from Edit menu or pop-up menu.

Source - Destination Editing

Powerful method for viewing/editing material, applicable to multi-track takes into one ideal take.

9 Fade Editor

Fade Editor Tab Window

Offers methods for creating fades/cross-fades graphically or via faders/buttons/numeric data.

The Graphical Display

Consists of TimeCode scale, Reference Point, Track names, scrollbars, and fade curves.

The Faders & Control Section

Contains controls and displays for fades, including Fade Safe, Memory Sets, Gain Faders, etc.

10 Mixer

Overview

Pyramix Mixer: powerful tool kit with extensive components, routing, and automation possibilities.

Mix!

Operational Mixer user interface page, divided vertically and horizontally.

Configure Page

Allows multiple changes to mixer without rebuild until exit; synchronized creation/deletion.

Effect Management

Expands Effects section for managing effects on strips and buses.

Secondary Audio Device Host Mode

Uses onboard sound card or external ASIO device as Secondary Audio Device for Pyramix.

11 Monitor

Monitor! Window

Dedicated Monitor section with comprehensive monitoring facilities.

Monitor! page

Window divided into three sections: Sources, Main area, and Output.

Configure page

Enables multiple Speaker Sets, each with multiple down-mixes, to be created and edited.

External Inputs

Adding external devices as monitor returns from studio's fixed external audio devices.

Talkback

Talkback facilities provided in Monitor section for studios without separate talkback system.

Setting Up

Talkback Page allows adding Studios (Destinations) and Talkbacks (Sources).

12 Meter Bridge

Meter Bridge

Dedicated Meter Bridge window for Input strips and Buses.

Configuring the Meter Bridge

Opening Mixer Bridge and Display panel to configure settings.

Meter Settings

Opens MeterBridge Settings window with Timing and Align.ment tabs.

DSD Filtering options

Three filtering options to ensure DSD signal compatibility with AES recommendations.

Phase-Oscillo (stereo mix only)

Combines phase meter and X/Y oscilloscope with display modes.

Surround Monitor (surround mix only)

Gives indication of energy distribution in surround sound field with colour code for phase issues.

13 Final Check Metering

Final Check Metering

Optional plug-in for precision metering, bringing tools to ensure masters conform to standards.

Final Check Window

Window with two tabbed pages: Metering and Setup.

Metering Tab

Divided between upper Stereo-panel and lower Surround-panel.

Loudness and Peak Metering

ITU-R 1770-1 recommendation for Peak and Loudness measurement.

Loudness Algorithm

Goal is numerical expression of overall loudness listener feels, expressed in LUFS.

True Peak Detector

Detects peaks occurring between samples, able to detect peaks over 0dBFS.

Setup

Final Check Metering Setup Tab for configuring meters and presets.

14 Effects and Plug-Ins

Effects and Plug-ins

Describes individual effects and components as applied in Pyramix Mixer.

VS3 Plug-In Support

Table showing VS3 Plug-ins support in Pyramix 8.x and their latency compensation.

Effects Presets

Right-clicking in Plug-in window pops up contextual menu for Reset, Recalled, Stored, Removed.

Effects Automation

VS3 Plug-in parameters can be automated dynamically, same as Mixer controls.

Parametric EQ

Four band fully parametric EQ with independent control of Filter Type, Gain, Frequency, Q.

10 Bands EQ

Ten band graphic equalizer with +/-24dB boost/cut per band, variable Q.

Dynamics Processing

Comprehensive module: gate, expander, two compressors, limiter, de-esser.

Thresholds

Controls level above/below which plug-in affects dynamics; settings for Gate, Expander, Compressor.

Delay

Provides four delay-based effects: Delay, Echo, Comb Filter, All Pass Filter.

Flanger

Produces characteristic sound by time modulating signal and feeding back in phase or reversed.

AnguDion II

Features Wide, Sub, linkable Input/Output gain, Velocity, Amount rotaries, Stooge, Angel, Tricky options.

M&S Stereo Strips

What is M&S? Technique outputting Sum and Difference signals instead of Left/Right.

HORUS Preamp Remote Controls

Remote control of analog preamps available in Pyramix Mixer when HORUS I/O is used.

Creating and Configuring Mixers

Modify existing mixer, create using Mixer Wizard, or design from scratch.

Mixer Delay Compensation

Offers choice between Full and Off for Mixer Delay Compensation.

Configuring a Blank or Existing Mixer

Mixer configuration via Configure Page, Route Page, or contextual menus.

Native VS3 Plug-ins

Adds native plug-ins like eq and dynamics; right-click mouse over strip to add.

Mixer Surround Components

Surround panner appears on Input Strips when a Surround Bus is added.

15 Automation

Master Automation Transport Controls

Controls for Global Dynamic Automation Modes: On/Off, Read, Write, Preview, Snapshot.

Dynamic Automation Levels

Two levels of automation: Level 1 (per Strip) and Level 2 (per component, Bus, Mixer).

Automation Editing

Editing data exists independently of Clips; treated according to Edit > Automation Editing sub-menu.

16 Strip and Bus Tools

Strip and Bus Tools

Quick way to add EQ, Compression, Limiter, Expander functions to channels and buses.

Sections

Strip Tools contain Input Level, Dynamics, Expander, Equalizer, Output sections.

Dynamics Section

Contains compressor, can be switched to decompressor; includes controls for Attack/Release/Hold.

Equalizer section

Five band fully parametric equalizer with adjustable characteristics.

Bus Tools

Similar to Strip Tools, designed for buses; includes mastering processing blocks and limiter.

IMPORTANT! Pre-Anticipation (PA) and Delay Compensation (DC)

Delay compensation adds delay to channels not selected for processing.

Delay Compensation; Pre-Anticipation

Explanation and example of delay compensation for signals passing through Bus Tools.

17 Project Processes

Dither

Removes extra bits after processing to suit delivery standards; avoids audible distortion.

Mixing Down Projects

Exporting a Composition to an audio file, similar to mixing down.

Consolidating Projects

Reduces storage space by selectively backing up media used in the Composition.

Process Plug-ins

Finds Glitches and Pops using Digital Glitch Detector.

Dirac

Optional high quality pitch-shift and time-stretch renderer from The DSP Dimension.

18 File and Project Interchange

File Interchange - Formats

Table of Pyramix Supported Audio Files: PMF, PMF (DXD), WAV, BWF, AIF, SD2, PMI, OMF, MXF, AVI, MOV, DSDIFF.

PMF

Pyramix Media File: native format, 64bit addressing, no 2GB limit, proprietary metadata.

Project Interchange

Pyramix Project Interchange Options for Clip and Marker Support.

Import; Export

Import and Export handled by InterChange; opens Import/Export windows.

AAF

Pyramix imports/exports projects in AAF (Advanced Authoring Format).

19 Customizing Pyramix

Customizing the User Interface

Pyramix allows customization of UI: Interface Editors, Workspaces, Keyboard Shortcuts, Macros.

Customizing Keyboard Shortcuts

Learn default shortcuts or create custom ones via View > Customize > Keyboard Shortcuts.

20 Applications

Project Templates

Pyramix provides Templates for various applications, configured for specific activities.

Pyramix With VCube

Sophisticated VCube video recorder/player with symbiotic relationship with Pyramix.

Dubbing Mode

Mode for film re-recording; allows Tracks Arming/Disarming while recording.

Discontinuous TimeCode

Auto-Punch mode allows automatic recording of tape with discontinuous TimeCode.

Film 24 to NTSC Sync

Settings for common scenarios for Film 24 to NTSC Sync, found in Settings > Hardware > Formats & Sync.

Working with External Machines

Pyramix controlling/controlled by external hardware like control surface or machine controller.

21 Conforming and Reconforming

Conforming

Process of making and positioning audio Cues in Timeline from Audio media files.

Importing a CMX EDL

Select Project > Import, choose CMX EDL, select EDL file, confirm Frame Rate.

Media Reconnection

Problem reconnecting to referenced media; Pyramix needs media present (mounted).

Reconform

Allows picture edit changes to be applied by loading a 'Change EDL'.

Reconforming Using Pyramix for Picture Change Detection

Use Pyramix to reconform to new version of Video Project.

Reconforming Using VCube for Picture Change Detection

Use VCube to reconform Pyramix Project to new version of Video Project.

Relink to New Media

Opens dialog offering options to relink all or selection of Clips to new media.

22 Machine Control

Control of External Device

Pyramix controls/is controlled by external hardware: control surface or machine controller.

9-pin (Sony P2 protocol)

Control external machine via 9-pin protocol; set up as external machine or remote controller.

Chase Synchronizer

Synchronize external 9-pin machines; compares TimeCode and sends transport commands.

Chase Mode

Choice of Hard, Soft, Vari Chase available in Settings > Application > Jog/Chase.

23 Remote Control

Scope

Pyramix can control/be controlled by external hardware: control surface or machine controller.

Ramses MSC

Ramses MSC with Pyramix: powerful digital mixing console, multitrack recorder.

Hardware Control Surfaces

Remote control via Oasis protocol, Proprietary protocols, EMC MIDI, or 9-pin (Sony P2 protocol).

OASIS Protocol

Generic TCP/IP protocol for integrating digital audio consoles and controllers.

24 GPI; GPO Control

GPI; GPO Support

GPI/O support available as a Remote Controller module; lists supported Sealevel models.

25 CD;SACD Mastering and Album Production

Mastering a Composition to CD-R

Set CD Track Start, Stop, and Index Markers; use DiscWrite application to burn CD-R or DDP.

CD;SACD Tab Window

Mastering features grouped in CD View: Tracks list, Album area, Tree Info, PQ Markers.

Validate PQ

Ensures PQ conforms to Red Book specifications by checks and corrections.

DDP Import

Import DDP tape or file to generate new CD image file.

Album Publishing

Online downloadable album publishing supersedes classic CD production.

26 Productivity

Locating Clips

Find Media file or files used in projects; replace instances of sound effect.

Playlists

Manage multiple takes of recording on single timeline, keeping them in layers.

Bars & Beats

Method to manage recording/edit for timing within a song, following rigid structure.

Tempo Map

Accessed by clicking Bars & Beats label in Ruler Bar; adjust length of Bar/Beat.

Tab Windows

Powerful aid to productivity; click Tab to open associated Window.

Workspaces

Method of creating presets of Timeline views and setups; parameters saved into Workspace.

Optimizing Pyramix

Tips for PC/OS setup, housekeeping, templates, and Pyramix File Format (.PMF).

DSP optimization

Strategies for optimizing DSP allocation in MassCore for large configurations.

27 Menus

Project

Options for creating, opening, saving projects, templates, archives, renders, and mixdowns.

Edit

Conventional commands: Delete, Cut, Copy, Paste; options for Undo/Redo.

Fade Editor

Commands for accepting/restoring fades, undoing changes, previous/next fade, Xify.

All Settings

Opens the Pyramix Settings Window.

28 Settings

Overview

Pyramix is configurable via Settings dialog window.

Configuration - The Settings Dialog Window

Settings dialog window brings together all Pyramix settings.

Hardware

Settings for Formats & Sync, Secondary Audio Device Bridging, MassCore, Routing, TimeCode.

Secondary Audio Device Bridging

Configure Audio Bridge options: Disable, ASIO Device Mode, Secondary Audio Device Host Mode.

MassCore

Settings for VST Plugins Engine, No of Cores, MT ASIO Bridge.

I;O Interfaces

Settings for Mykerinos, Master Board, ADAT Board, AES II Board, SDIF Board, TDIF Board.

Mixer

Settings for Level Meter, DSP Power Saving, Mixer Settings, VST Plug-ins Settings.

Application

Settings for General, Editing, Playback/Record, Jog/Chase, CD/SACD, Desktop Layout, Keys.

Automation

Optimizations, Auto-Release Options, Preview Mode Options.

Background Recorders

Settings for number of recorders, recorder color, time stamp, take name.

Remote Control

Settings for Machine, Controller, Virtual Transport 2.

29 Troubleshooting

Keeping Up To Date

Acquiring and installing latest Drivers/Firmware/BIOS/OS; exercise caution with driver updates.

Error Messages

PCI Bus Too Slow, Audio Engine Drops Warning, Playback Stalls Warning, Record Stalls Warning.

No Sound on Live Inputs

Check mute/solo status, DSP load, I/O status, sync source, sample rate, hardware connections.

ADAT Daughterboard and XDTDM

ADAT daughter card supported in HDTDM (64 I/O) and XDTDM (128 I/O) modes.

General Troubleshooting

Check Windows XP settings, hardware drivers, software updates, Merging representative.

30 Appendices

Appendix II Legacy Mykerinos I;O Daughter-card Options

ADAT Optical I/O, AES/EBU I/O, AES II with SRC, DSD mapping, MADI I/O, SDIF I/O.

Appendix III VS3 Control Panel

Separate application for setting Pyramix hardware and software parameters.

Audio Bridge

Mechanism used by Pyramix to accommodate ASIO and Rewire applications.

Appendix IV Optional Features

Pyramix DSD / DXD / SACD hardware and settings interfacing.

Project Types

DXD Mixing Project (recording, editing, mixing, processing, mastering DSD/SACD).

Appendix V 9 - Pin connection

PC RS-232 Serial Port to External Sony P2 RS-422 Controller connections.

Appendix VII - Network Connections

Ethernet connection of Workstations; DHCP settings, IP Configuration.

Merging Pyramix Specifications

General IconGeneral
DeveloperMerging Technologies
CategoryDigital Audio Workstation (DAW)
PlatformWindows
ARA2 SupportYes
Sample Rate SupportUp to 384 kHz
Bit DepthUp to 32-bit float
Supported FormatsWAV, AIFF, MP3, FLAC, OGG
Featuresmixing, mastering
Surround Sound SupportYes
Plug-in FormatsVST3, AU
Track CountUnlimited (depends on hardware)
Hardware IntegrationMerging HAPI, Anubis, Horus
Editing FeaturesNon-destructive editing
License TypePerpetual license, Subscription
AutomationFull automation support

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