Chapter 5: Multiple Adat Operation; Multiple Adat Basics41; Synchronizing Multiple Adats; A Hooking Up Multiple Adats - Alesis ADAT Reference Manual

CHAPTER 5: MULTIPLE
ADAT OPERATION
5.0 MULTIPLE ADAT BASICS
Two ADATs, with one serving as the master recorder and the other serving as the
slave, provide additional possibilities:
16 tracks of synchronized digital audio storage.
Simplified backup (see Chapter 6).
Easy musical collaboration with other ADAT-equipped musicians.
Easy creation of safeties and archives of parts. Example: Suppose your rhythm
section is in four tracks of one ADAT. You can then do eight tracks worth of
guitar, vocal, brass, or other overdubs in the other ADAT, and bounce the
"keeper" parts over to empty tracks in the original tape. Once these tracks are
filled up, you can then do a premix to the second ADAT, and continue recording
on empty tracks in the second ADAT.
It is also possible to synchronize up to 16 ADATs for 128 tracks.
One ADAT serves as the master and all the others as slaves. Therefore, operating
procedures are similar to using two ADATs, just that there are more slaves.
Important: In a multi-ADAT system, all ADATs should be of
the same software version for best performance. To check the software version,
hold Set Locate and press Fast Forward on each machine. The software version of
the ADAT will show in its display for a moment. If you must mix software versions
temporarily, the latest software version should be the master machine. Software
upgrades are available through Alesis to make sure all machines are compatible.
Contact Alesis Product Support for assistance.
5.1

SYNCHRONIZING MULTIPLE ADATS

5.1A Hooking Up Multiple ADATs

Synchronization requires a dual male, 9-pin D cable for each pair of ADATs to be
synchronized. This connection can be made while power is on or off, and ADATs do
not need to be turned on in any particular order in a multiple ADAT system.
Use the correct cables: Most problems in multi-ADAT systems are the result of
using the wrong cables. The 9-pin cable must be shielded, and wired pin-to-pin.
Alesis Sync Cables that meet this specification are available from your ADAT dealer.
Use the shortest length practical for your arrangement.