The Yamaha DA824 is a high-performance 8-channel digital-to-analog converter designed for professional audio applications. It features 24-bit linear digital-to-analog converters and 128-times oversampling, providing a wide dynamic range for accurate audio reproduction.

Function Description

The primary function of the DA824 is to convert digital audio signals into analog audio signals. It supports various popular digital audio interconnect formats through optional mini YGDAI (Yamaha General Digital Audio Interface) cards. These cards allow the DA824 to interface with different digital audio devices, including those using AES/EBU, ADAT, and Tascam TDIF-1 formats.

The DA824 is equipped with eight analog outputs, each featuring its own output-level switch for presetting the maximum output level. These settings can be adjusted to +24 dB, +18 dB, +15 dB, and +4 dBV, offering flexibility to match different analog equipment requirements.

For synchronization, the DA824 relies on a wordclock signal. It can lock to a wordclock signal derived from its SLOT digital audio inputs or from an external wordclock source connected to the WORD CLOCK IN connector. A LOCK indicator on the front panel visually confirms whether the DA824 is synchronized to the wordclock source.

Usage Features

Front Panel Indicators:

The front panel of the DA824 provides clear visual feedback on signal levels and synchronization status.

PEAK, NOMINAL & SIGNAL indicators: These indicators are present for each of the eight channels, showing the signal level.
- PEAK: Lights up when the signal level is 3 dB below full-scale output, indicating that the signal is approaching its maximum without clipping.
- NOMINAL: Lights up when the signal level is 14 dB below full-scale output, representing a typical operating level.
- SIGNAL: Lights up when the signal level is 34 dB below full-scale output, confirming the presence of an audio signal.
LOCK indicator: This indicator shows whether the DA824 is successfully locked to the wordclock source. A steady light means it's locked and synchronized, while a flashing light indicates a lack of synchronization.
POWER indicator: Illuminates when the unit is powered on.

Power Control:

The DA824 features a recessed [POWER] switch on the front panel to prevent accidental operation. It's crucial to follow a specific power-on and power-off sequence for your audio equipment to prevent audible thumps and clicks. When powering on, sound sources, mixers, or recorders should be turned on first, followed by the DA824, and then power amplifiers. When powering off, this order should be reversed.

Rear Panel Connections:

The rear panel offers a comprehensive set of connectors for integration into a professional audio system.

COM port: This port is primarily for updating the DA824's internal firmware and is not used during normal operation.
WORD CLOCK THRU connector: A BNC connector that transmits the wordclock signal received at the WORD CLOCK IN, allowing for daisy-chaining to other devices.
WORD CLOCK 75Ω ON/OFF switch: This switch is used to terminate the wordclock signal received at the WORD CLOCK IN. Correct termination is essential for reliable wordclock distribution, typically applied at the last device in a chain.
WORD CLOCK IN connector: A BNC connector for connecting an external wordclock source. When a usable wordclock signal is present here, it takes precedence over the wordclock derived from the SLOT digital audio inputs.
OUTPUT (BAL) connectors: These are the analog outputs for each channel, provided as both male XLR-3-32 type connectors and 1/4" phone jack (TRS) connectors. Both types are electronically balanced. XLR connectors are wired with pin-1 ground, pin-2 hot (+), and pin-3 cold (-). When using both XLR and phone jack outputs for a channel simultaneously, ensure the total load is greater than 600Ω.
Power cable: Connects the DA824 to an AC outlet.
SLOT: This slot accommodates optional mini YGDAI cards, which provide various digital input options (e.g., MY8-AT for ADAT, MY8-AE for AES/EBU, MY8-TD for Tascam TDIF-1).

Digital I/O Cards:

The DA824's flexibility is greatly enhanced by its support for optional mini YGDAI cards. These cards allow the unit to adapt to different digital audio environments.

MY8-AT (ADAT): Provides ADAT format digital I/O via two MultiChannel Optical Digital Interface connectors.
MY8-AE (AES/EBU): Offers AES/EBU format digital I/O via a 25-pin D-sub connector.
MY8-TD (Tascam TDIF-1): Delivers Tascam TDIF-1 format digital I/O via a 25-pin D-sub connector, and includes a BNC connector for wordclock output. MY8-TD cards also feature a device selector switch (EXT: 88/INT: 38) to match the connected device (e.g., Tascam DA-88 or DA-38/DME32).

Wordclock Management:

Proper wordclock synchronization is critical for correct digital-to-analog processing. The DA824 can derive its wordclock from its digital audio inputs or an external BNC wordclock source. The manual provides examples of wordclock hookups, including scenarios where the DA824 sources wordclock from its SLOT digital audio inputs or from the WORD CLOCK IN connector. It also details different wordclock distribution methods (distribution box, bus, and daisy chain) and how to apply termination correctly using the WORD CLOCK 75Ω ON/OFF switch.

Maintenance Features

Installation and Ventilation:

The DA824 can be used freestanding or rack-mounted. For proper ventilation, it's crucial to leave adequate free space around the unit: 10 cm at the sides, 15 cm behind, and 30 cm above. When rack-mounting, especially in a portable rack case, the rear of the rack should be open to ensure airflow. Avoid mounting the DA824 next to heat-generating equipment like power amplifiers to prevent overheating, which could lead to damage or fire.

Environmental Considerations:

The device should be operated in an environment where the temperature is between 10°C and 35°C (50°F and 95°F). It should not be exposed to extreme temperatures, humidity, direct sunlight, or dust. If the unit is moved from a cold to a warmer environment, or if the temperature rises sharply, condensation may form inside. In such cases, allow the DA824 to acclimatize for about an hour before use to prevent performance issues.

Cleaning:

To clean the DA824, use only a soft, dry cloth. Do not use benzene, thinner, cleaning detergent, or chemical cloths, as these can damage the unit's finish.

Power Cord Handling:

Always hold the power-cord plug when disconnecting it from an AC outlet; never pull the cord itself, as this can damage the cord and create a fire or electrical shock hazard. Avoid placing heavy objects on the power cord, scratching, bending, twisting, pulling, or heating it. If the power cord is damaged, it should be replaced by a dealer.

Safety Precautions:

Do not allow water or any liquid to enter the DA824, and keep it dry.
Do not touch the power plug with wet hands.
Avoid plugging multiple devices into the same AC outlet to prevent overloading.
If any abnormality (smoke, odor, noise, foreign object, or liquid inside), immediately turn off the unit, remove the power cord, and consult a dealer for repair.
Do not place small metal objects on top of the DA824, as they could fall inside and cause a fire or electrical shock.
If the DA824 is dropped or its cabinet is damaged, turn off the power, unplug it, and contact a dealer.
Do not remove the DA824's cover, as there is a risk of electrical shock. Internal inspection, maintenance, or repair should only be performed by a qualified dealer.
Do not attempt to modify the DA824, as this can create fire or electrical shock hazards.
Ensure that the ventilation slots are not blocked to prevent overheating and fire hazards.
Do not place containers with liquid or small metal objects on top of the unit.

Interference:

The DA824 uses high-frequency digital circuits that may cause interference with nearby radio and television equipment. If interference occurs, relocating the affected equipment may resolve the issue.

Digital I/O Card Installation:

When installing mini YGDAI cards, first turn off the DA824. Undo the two fixing screws and remove the slot cover, keeping the cover and screws in a safe place. Insert the card between the guide rails and slide it firmly into the slot until it plugs into the DA824 connector. Finally, secure the card using the attached thumbscrews, ensuring they are tight for proper grounding.

Noise Prevention during Wordclock Changes:

When changing the wordclock source, especially if an MY8-AT I/O card is installed, the DA824's analog outputs may produce noise. To prevent this, turn down your power amplifiers beforehand. Similarly, when changing the wordclock source on the wordclock master device (e.g., AD824 or DME32), turn down your power amplifiers or turn off the DA824.

Yamaha DA824 - Page 20

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