EasyManua.ls Logo

MOTU Audio Express User Manual

MOTU Audio Express
90 pages
To Next Page IconTo Next Page
To Next Page IconTo Next Page
Page #1 background imageLoading...
Page #1 background image
Audio Express
User Guide for Mac
1280 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02138
Business voice: (617) 576-2760
Business fax: (617) 576-3609
Web site: www.motu.com
Tech support: www.motu.com/support
!Audio Express Manual/Mac Page 1 Tuesday, February 22, 2011 11:10 AM

Table of Contents

Question and Answer IconNeed help?

Do you have a question about the MOTU Audio Express and is the answer not in the manual?

MOTU Audio Express Specifications

General IconGeneral
BrandMOTU
ModelAudio Express
CategoryAccessories
LanguageEnglish

Summary

License Agreement and Limited Warranty

Reminder of Software License Terms

Summarizes key terms of the software license agreement for user rights and restrictions.

Hardware Limited Warranty

Details MOTU's hardware warranty, terms, and conditions for defects.

Audio Express Front Panel Overview

PHONES Knob Functionality

Controls headphone jack volume and can switch between phones/main outs.

MIX LEDs Indicator

Indicate current mix or trim mode being controlled by knobs.

MIC/INST Metering

Ten-segment LED metering for mic/instrument combo jacks.

Audio Express Rear Panel Overview

FIREWIRE Connector Details

Connects the Audio Express to the computer via FireWire.

MIC/INST Jack Description

Combo XLR/TRS jacks for mic or instrument inputs.

MOTU Audio Setup Configuration

General Tab Settings

Global settings for all connected MOTU FireWire and USB interfaces.

Audio Express Tab Settings

Specific settings for the Audio Express interface.

About the Audio Express Hardware

Audio Express Overview

Provides a general overview of the Audio Express features and capabilities.

Key Hardware Features

Lists the primary features and connectivity options of the Audio Express.

Audio Express Rear Panel Connectors

Input/Output Capabilities

Details the simultaneous input and output capabilities of the Audio Express.

Mic/Guitar Input Details

Describes combo jacks, preamps, phantom power, and trim control.

Precision Digital Trim Adjustment

Explains digitally controlled analog trims for input level adjustments.

Audio Express Front Panel Controls

Front Panel Mixing Controls

Describes how rotary encoders control input mixing across four separate mixes.

Phantom Power and Pad Settings

How to toggle phantom power and pad for mic inputs.

Headphone and Main Volume Control

Details the headphone jack and its configurable volume control options.

Audio Express System Features

16-Bit and 24-Bit Recording Support

Explains the system's 24-bit signal path and recording capabilities.

CueMix Mixing and Effects Overview

Describes the on-board digital mixer for no-latency monitoring and mixing.

Included AudioDesk Software

Overview of the included 24-bit audio workstation software for Mac OS X.

System Requirements and Packing List

Audio Express Packing List

Lists the items included with the Audio Express box.

Mac System Requirements

Specifies the minimum hardware and OS requirements for Mac systems.

Product Registration Information

Encourages registration for technical support and updates.

Connecting the Audio Express Interface

Important Installation Precautions

Crucial safety measures to prevent equipment damage during installation.

Connecting to the Computer

Details the process of connecting the Audio Express to the computer.

Connecting Audio Inputs and Outputs

Guides on making analog and digital audio connections.

Interface Connection Options

FireWire vs. USB2 Choice

Helps choose between FireWire and USB2 connection based on computer ports.

FireWire Bus Power Requirement

Explains the requirement of FireWire for bus-powered operation.

FireWire Connection Steps

Step-by-step guide for connecting via FireWire, including safety notes.

USB 2.0 vs. USB 1.1 Connectivity

Connecting via High-Speed USB 2.0

Step-by-step guide for connecting via USB 2.0.

Switching Between FireWire and USB Modes

Explains how the device switches between FireWire and USB modes.

Connecting Audio Inputs and Outputs

Mic and Instrument Input Connection

How to connect mics and instruments, and notes on preamp usage.

Phantom Power Activation

Explains how to enable phantom power for condenser microphones.

Quarter-Inch Analog Input/Output Details

Details the balanced TRS analog inputs and outputs.

Connecting MIDI Gear

One-Way MIDI Connections

Explains how to connect MIDI devices for one-way data flow.

MIDI THRU for Daisy-Chaining

Describes daisy-chaining MIDI devices using the MIDI THRU port.

S/PDIF Device Connection and Sync

FireWire Bus Power Requirements

Explains requirements for bus power via FireWire connections.

Daisy-Chaining Caution (Bus Power)

Advises against daisy-chaining when the device is bus-powered.

Available Power Options

Details the available power sources for the Audio Express.

Bus-Powered Operation Examples

DC Power Supply Usage

Information on using an external DC power supply.

Turning Off the Audio Express

Instructions on how to properly turn off the Audio Express.

Typical Audio Express Studio Setup

Diagram of a Studio Setup

Illustrates a typical studio setup with the Audio Express and connected gear.

Connecting Multiple MOTU Interfaces

Bus Power Restriction for Multiple Interfaces

Warns against bus-powering when connecting multiple interfaces.

Managing Multiple Interfaces in MOTU Audio Setup

Explains how to view settings for multiple interfaces in MOTU Audio Setup.

Resolving to Other Core Audio Drivers

Details how to synchronize MOTU interfaces with other Core Audio drivers.

Synchronizing Multiple MOTU Devices

Connecting Other MOTU FireWire Interfaces

How to connect and mix different MOTU FireWire interfaces.

Adding Interfaces with a Second FireWire Bus

Using expansion products to add more FireWire buses for interfaces.

Installing Mac OS X Software

Audio Express Software Installation

Instructions for installing the Audio Express software and drivers.

OS X Installer Functionality

Explains the installer's functions and components.

Core MIDI and Audio MIDI Setup

Launching Audio MIDI Setup

Steps to launch and verify the Audio MIDI Setup utility.

Connecting MIDI Devices in Audio MIDI Setup

How to add and connect MIDI devices within Audio MIDI Setup.

CueMix FX and Included Software

MOTU SMPTE Console Overview

Overview of the SMPTE Console software for time code synchronization.

AudioDesk Workstation Software Details

Details on the AudioDesk workstation software features.

MOTU Audio Setup Configuration Guide

Accessing MOTU Audio Setup Settings

Ways to access and open MOTU Audio Setup settings.

Audio Express Specific Tab Settings

Settings specific to the Audio Express interface.

General Tab Global Settings

Global settings applicable to all connected MOTU interfaces.

Audio Express Tab Settings Explained

Sample Rate Configuration

Setting the audio sample rate for recording and playback.

Clock Source Selection

Determines the digital audio clock the system will use as its time base.

S/PDIF Clock Source Settings

Default Stereo Input/Output Setup

Setting Mac OS X's default sound input/output to the Audio Express.

Built-in Audio Clock Source Option

Option to resolve the Audio Express to the Mac's built-in audio.

MOTU Audio Setup - General Tab

Phones Output Assignment

Choosing what audio is heard from the headphone jack.

Edit Channel Names Functionality

Renaming inputs/outputs for clarity in host applications.

Enable and Configure Foot Pedal

Configuring a connected foot switch for custom keystrokes.

Audio Express Front Panel Operation Guide

Phones and Main Outs Volume Control

How to control volume for headphone and main outputs via the PHONES knob.

Push-Button Rotary Encoder Functionality

Explains the multi-functionality of the front panel knobs.

Front Panel Mixing Controls

Controlling Individual Input Volumes

Using input controls to adjust volume and mute individual inputs.

Controlling Overall Mix Volume

Using the mix volume knob to control overall output level.

Four Separate Mix Options

Explains the availability of separate mixes for each output pair.

Input Level and Feature Adjustments

Input Panning Controls

Controls input panning across stereo outputs, with Balance and Width options.

Input Trim Adjustment

How to adjust input trim levels before the mixer stage for overall input level.

Pad and Phantom Power Toggling

How to toggle the -20 dB pad and 48V phantom power for mic inputs.

Front Panel Metering and Reset

Stand-alone Mixer Operation

Operating the Audio Express without a computer for basic mixing.

Visual Feedback for Mix Controls

How LEDs provide visual feedback for volume and pan adjustments.

Restoring Factory Default Settings

Procedure to reset all settings to factory defaults.

Digital Performer Integration

Digital Performer System Setup

Steps for setting up Digital Performer with the Audio Express.

Configuring Audio Express in Digital Performer

How to access and configure Audio Express settings within Digital Performer.

Using Audio Express I/O in Digital Performer

Using Audio Express I/O within Digital Performer's interface.

Digital Performer Settings

Sample Rate Configuration in DP

Setting the audio sample rate for Digital Performer and Audio Express.

Clock Source for DP Synchronization

Setting the clock source for Digital Performer and the Audio Express.

Buffer Size for Latency in DP

Adjusting buffer size to control latency in Digital Performer.

Digital Performer Workflow Features

24-Bit Recording in Digital Performer

Explains Digital Performer's 24-bit recording capabilities with the Audio Express.

MIDI I/O in Digital Performer

Using Audio Express MIDI ports within Digital Performer.

Live Input Processing with Plug-ins in DP

Handling latency when using live inputs with plug-ins in DP.

AudioDesk Integration

AudioDesk System Setup

Steps for setting up AudioDesk with the Audio Express.

Configuring Audio Express in AudioDesk

How to access and configure Audio Express settings within AudioDesk.

Using Audio Express I/O in AudioDesk

Using Audio Express I/O within AudioDesk's interface.

AudioDesk Settings Explained

Sample Rate Configuration in AudioDesk

Setting the audio sample rate for AudioDesk and Audio Express.

Clock Source for AudioDesk Sync

Setting the clock source for AudioDesk and the Audio Express.

Buffer Size for Latency in AudioDesk

Adjusting buffer size to control latency in AudioDesk.

AudioDesk Workflow Features

24-Bit Recording in AudioDesk

Explains AudioDesk's 24-bit recording capabilities with the Audio Express.

MIDI I/O in AudioDesk

Using Audio Express MIDI ports within AudioDesk.

Live Input Processing with Plug-ins in AudioDesk

Handling latency when using live inputs with plug-ins in AudioDesk.

Integrating Other Mac OS X Software

Installing Audio Express Mac OS X Drivers

Instructions for installing the Audio Express Mac OS X drivers.

Preparing MIDI Input and Output

Procedure for preparing MIDI ports for use with Mac OS X software.

Running MOTU Audio Setup

Guide to launching and configuring MOTU Audio Setup.

Choosing the Core Audio Driver

Pro Tools Core Audio Setup

Configuring the Audio Express as the Core Audio driver in Pro Tools.

Logic Pro/Express Core Audio Setup

Setting up the Audio Express Core Audio driver in Logic Pro/Express.

Audio Setup in Various DAWs

Soundtrack Pro Configuration

Configuring MOTU Audio Express for Input and Monitor in Soundtrack Pro.

GarageBand Audio Input/Output Setup

Configuring MOTU Audio Express for Audio Output and Input in GarageBand.

Ableton Live CoreAudio Setup

Setting up the Audio Express CoreAudio driver in Ableton Live.

DAW Audio Driver Configuration

Reaper Audio Driver Setup

Selecting MOTU Audio Express as the Audio Device in Reaper.

Reason and Record Audio Preferences

Configuring Audio preferences for Reason or Record.

Cubase and Nuendo ASIO Driver Setup

Setting up the MOTU Audio Express ASIO driver in Cubase/Nuendo.

Audio Express Input/Output Naming

Working with Inputs and Outputs in DAWs

How Audio Express I/O appears in host audio software.

Specifying Number of Audio Channels

Choosing the correct number of audio channels for the host software.

MIDI I/O Configuration

Using Audio Express MIDI ports in host software MIDI I/O menus.

Processing Live Inputs and CueMix FX

Live Input Processing with Host Plug-ins

Handling latency when using live inputs with plug-ins.

CueMix FX Mixing with Host Software

Using CueMix FX with host software for mixing.

Synchronization with Host Software

Synchronizing host audio software with the Audio Express.

Reducing Monitoring Latency

Monitoring Live Input Signals

Explains latency experienced when monitoring live input signals.

Adjusting Audio I/O Buffer Size

How to adjust buffer size settings to manage latency.

CueMix Hardware Monitoring

Using CueMix for direct, no-latency monitoring.

Monitoring Live Audio Input

Adjusting Audio I/O Buffer for Latency

How to adjust buffer size settings to manage latency.

CueMix Hardware Monitoring Method

Using CueMix for direct, no-latency monitoring without computer effects.

Audio I/O Buffer Adjustment

Buffer Size Impact on Latency

Explains the relationship between buffer size, latency, and CPU load.

Buffer Size and Transport Responsiveness

How buffer size affects software transport control responsiveness.

Buffer Size Trade-offs

Latency vs. CPU Overhead

Explains the relationship between buffer size, latency, and CPU load.

Transport Responsiveness Impact

How buffer size affects software transport control responsiveness.

Effects Processing and CueMix

CueMix Hardware Monitoring Benefits

Using CueMix for direct, no-latency monitoring.

Methods for Controlling CueMix

Outlines the three ways to control CueMix features.

Controlling CueMix via Software

CueMix Control in AudioDesk/DP

How to enable CueMix monitoring within AudioDesk or Digital Performer.

CueMix Control in Other Software

Consulting software manuals for CueMix control.

CueMix FX Software Features

Advantages Over Host-Based Mixing

Lists benefits of CueMix FX over host-based mixing.

CueMix FX Basic Operation

Explains basic concepts for operating the CueMix FX application.

Separate Mixes Per Output Pair

Describes the availability of separate mixes for each output pair.

CueMix FX Mix Components

Viewing One Mix at a Time

How to select and view individual mixes within the software.

Independent Mix Settings

Explains that mix settings are independent of each other.

Adjusting CueMix FX Window Size

How to adjust the CueMix FX window size for more faders.

CueMix FX Input Controls

Naming Mixes and Inputs

How to edit the name of a mix or input.

Input Trim Adjustment in CueMix

Adjusting input trim levels within CueMix FX.

Pad and Phantom Power Settings

Setting pad and phantom power for mic inputs in CueMix FX.

Input Panning and Talkback/Listenback

Input Panning: Balance and Width

Controls input panning across stereo outputs, with Balance and Width options.

Talkback and Listenback Features

Explains Talkback and Listenback features for studio communication.

Hardware Setup for Talkback/Listenback

Typical hardware setup for Talkback and Listenback features.

Talkback/Listenback Routing and Dimming

Routing Talkback/Listenback Mics

Routing Talkback and Listenback mics to specific outputs.

Monitor Dim for Talkback/Listenback

Adjusting audio attenuation when Talkback/Listenback is active.

Engaging/Disengaging Talkback/Listenback

How to activate or deactivate Talkback and Listenback buttons.

CueMix FX File and Scope Options

Mix1 Return Computer Output Feature

Including computer output in Mix1 return, with feedback loop warning.

Scope Channel Selection

Choosing input channels for audio analysis features.

CueMix FX File Menu Options

Options for saving, loading, and managing CueMix FX configurations.

CueMix FX Audio Analysis Tools

FFT Analysis and Spectrogram Display

Displaying real-time frequency measurement curves.

Selecting Channels for Analysis

Selecting channels for audio analysis tools.

Scoping Main Outputs

Scoping audio output sent to the main outs.

FFT Display Controls

Spectrogram Display Overlay

Superimposing a real-time spectrogram display over the FFT.

X-Axis Scale Options (Linear/Logarithmic)

Changing the X-axis scale for frequency display.

Horizontal Axis Controls

Configuring the value range and mode of the X-axis.

Oscilloscope Display Features

Amplitude Axis Controls

Configuring the Y-axis range and mode for the oscilloscope.

Opening the Oscilloscope Window

How to open the oscilloscope window.

Selecting Channels for Oscilloscope

Selecting channels for the oscilloscope display.

Oscilloscope Display Controls

Pausing the Oscilloscope Display

Freezing the oscilloscope display at any time.

Time Axis (Horizontal) Controls

Configuring the X-axis range and mode for the oscilloscope.

Amplitude Axis (Vertical) Controls

Configuring the Y-axis range and mode for the oscilloscope.

Waveform Recognition and Triggering

Waveform Recognition Settings

Choosing recognition types for waveform analysis.

Trigger Settings for Graph Updates

Setting conditions to trigger graph updates based on signal events.

Trigger Criteria Definition

Defining trigger conditions like channel, slope, level, and magnitude.

Trigger Modes and Measurement

Trigger Modes Explained

Describes the different modes for triggering graph updates.

Trigger Indicator States

Displays the trigger state and allows manual interaction.

Measurement Information Display

Viewing detailed time-range information using measurement bars.

Oscilloscope Usage Examples

Viewing Drum Hit Transients

Using the oscilloscope to view compression effects on transients.

Detecting Clipping in Digital Audio

Using the oscilloscope to detect clipping in digital audio signals.

Timing Pulses and Synthesizer Patches

Comparing Timing of Audio Signals

Using the oscilloscope to compare timing of audio signals.

Analyzing Synthesizer Patch Characteristics

Using the oscilloscope to check synthesizer patch characteristics.

Checking Waveform Polarity

Using the oscilloscope to view and compare waveform polarities.

X-Y Plot Feature Overview

X-Y Plot Metering Details

Displays level and correlation meters for stereo signals.

Opening the X-Y Plot Window

How to open the X-Y Plot window.

X-Y Plot Display Options

Line vs. Scatter Plotting

Plotting data points as lines or scatter pixels in the X-Y Plot.

Color and Grayscale Display Modes

Displaying data in color or grayscale modes.

X and Y Axis Control

Configuring the X and Y axes ranges and modes.

X-Y Plot Persistence Controls

Plot Length Setting

Sets the number of recent samples to show on the plot.

Plot Decay Setting

Determines the brightness or hue of the minimum value.

Plot Warp Setting

Affects the position of data points after they are drawn.

Phase Analysis Feature

Correlation Meter Display

Displays the correlation between two audio channels.

Opening the Phase Analysis Window

How to open the Phase Analysis window.

Selecting Channels for Phase Analysis

Selecting channels for the Phase Analysis display.

Phase Analysis Plotting Modes

Line vs. Scatter Plotting Modes

Plotting data points as lines or scatter pixels in the Phase Analysis.

Color and Grayscale Display Options

Displaying signal amplitude in color or grayscale.

Frequency Axis Scale (Linear/Logarithmic)

Changing the scale of the frequency axis.

Phase Analysis Filters and Usage

Phase Analysis Filter Settings

Controls the density of the Phase Analysis display.

Max Delta Theta Filter

Sets the maximum frequency difference for line plots.

Using Phase Analysis for Alignment

Explains phase alignment and polarity checks using the analysis.

Phase Analysis Applications

Tuning PA Systems

Troubleshooting and tuning PAs using phase analysis.

Checking Stereo to Mono Summing

Checking for frequency cancellation when summing stereo to mono.

Analyzing Stereo Track Polarity

Analyzing stereo mix polarity and phase issues.

Tuner Feature and Configurations

Tuner Controls Explained

Explains detected frequency, note, meter, and reference frequency settings.

Tuning Stereo Signals

How the tuner handles stereo signals and phase coherence.

CueMix FX Configurations Menu

Managing CueMix FX settings as hardware presets or configurations.

CueMix FX Configuration Management

Saving CueMix FX as Hardware Preset

Saving CueMix FX settings as a hardware preset on the device.

Loading Preset as CueMix FX Configuration

Loading a hardware preset and saving it as a CueMix FX configuration.

Talkback Menu Operations

Engaging or disengaging Talkback and Listenback features.

CueMix FX Control Surface Integration

Sharing Control Surface with Other Apps

Allows control surface to follow the active application.

CueMix Control Surface Support

Support for Mackie Control and HUI compatible control surfaces.

Other HUI-Compatible Control Surfaces

Using other HUI-compatible surfaces with CueMix FX.

MOTU SMPTE Console Setup

SMPTE Console Software Overview

Tools for generating and regenerating SMPTE time code.

Clock/Address Settings for SMPTE

Setting the global clock source and address for SMPTE synchronization.

SMPTE Frame Rate Configuration

Matching the SMPTE time code frame rate for receiving.

SMPTE Time Code Reader Section

SMPTE Reader Status Lights

Explains the Tach, Clock, Address, and Freewheel status lights.

SMPTE Source Input Selection

Choosing the analog input for time code source.

Freewheel Address Setting

Setting how long the system freewheels during drop-outs.

SMPTE Time Code Generator Section

Generator Level Adjustment

Adjusting the volume of the generated SMPTE time code.

Generator Destination Options

Choosing SMPTE or None for time code generation.

Regenerate Time Code Function

Generating time code when receiving SMPTE time code.

Syncing to SMPTE Time Code

SMPTE Sync Setup Prerequisites

Lists prerequisites for synchronizing with SMPTE time code.

SMPTE Sync Setup Benefits

Outlines benefits of the SMPTE synchronization setup.

AudioDesk/Digital Performer SMPTE Sync

Steps to configure AudioDesk/DP for SMPTE sync.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Audio Express Drops Offline

Addresses issues with the Audio Express dropping offline, often power-related.

Clicks and Pops from Drive Problems

Discusses clicks/pops related to drive issues or fragmentation.

Connecting/Powering Gear During Operation

Advises against connecting/disconnecting gear during audio playback/recording.

Technical Support Information

Contacting Technical Support

Provides contact methods and information needed for technical support.

Related product manuals