Analog Recording; Digital Recording - RME Audio Digiface AES User Manual

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8.5 Analog Recording

For recordings via the analog inputs the corresponding record device has to be chosen (Digiface

AES Analog (1+2)).

The input sensitivity of the inputs can be changed with adjustable gain in TotalMix (Input Channel

Settings, Gain), assuring the highest signal to noise ratio will be achieved. A further optimization

can be achieved by adjusting the source itself. Raise the source's output level until the peak level

meters in TotalMix reach about –3 dB.

The level of the front-side analog inputs can also be optimized directly at the Digiface AES by the

key Mic/Gain and the encoder. The multi-colour level meters shown on the display additionally

provide useful information about the current level state.

Further information is found in chapter 19.

It often makes sense to monitor the input signal or send it directly to the output. This can be done

at zero latency using TotalMix FX (see chapter 24).

An automated control of real-time monitoring can be achieved by Steinberg's ASIO protocol with

RME's ASIO drivers and all ASIO 2.0 compatible programs. When 'ASIO Direct Monitoring' has

been switched on, the input signal is routed in real-time to the output whenever a recording is

started (punch-in).

Unlike analog soundcards which produce empty wave files (or noise) when no input signal is

present, digital interfaces always need a valid input signal to start recording.

Taking this into account, RME added a com-

prehensive I/O signal status display to the

Digiface AES, showing sample frequency, lock

and sync status for every input, and several

status fields in the unit's display.

The sample frequency shown in the fields

Clock Mode and Input Status of the Settings

dialog is useful as a quick display of the cur-

rent configuration of the unit and the con-

nected external equipment. If no sample fre-

quency is recognized, it will read 'No Lock'.

This way, configuring any suitable audio application for digital recording is simple. After selecting

the correct input, Digiface AES displays the current sample frequency. This parameter can then

be changed in the application's audio attributes (or similar) dialog.

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