Yamaha TF-RACK, TF5/3/1 Manual

Introduction

Intended user

This product was designed for users who are familiar with using analog mixers as part of a PA system.

Intended usage

This product was designed to be installed in a rack mount and used in a variety of locations, such as shops and event spaces, to mix multiple audio sources, such as live band instruments or audio devices used at corporate events.

Included items

• Power cord
• Quick Guide (this document)
• Rubber feet (×4)
• Nuendo Live (DAW software)

Documentation

Quick Guide (this document)
This document primarily explains panel controls, functions, and basic operation of the product.

Using the Reference Manual
The Reference Manual is an electronic file in PDF format. You can read this document on a computer. Use Adobe® Acrobat Reader DC® to read this book on screen, search for words very quickly, print specific pages, or click links to display sections of special interest. The ability to search for words, or to follow links directly to relevant sections in the document, are helpful attributes of this electronic file format. We encourage you to take advantage of these benefits. You can download the latest Adobe Acrobat Reader DC application from the website listed below.

Information about software and firmware

Software
Your TF-series mixer can be used with a variety of utility software.

• TF Editor
  This application enables you to set up and operate the unit from a connected computer. You can also use the application to back up mixer settings or set mixer parameters without connecting the unit.
• TF StageMix
  This app allows you to use your iPad and a Wi-Fi connection to remote control the unit.
• MonitorMix
  This app allows you to use your mobile device and a Wi-Fi connection to adjust the TF-series mixer's AUX Send remotely.
• Yamaha Steinberg USB Driver (Windows only)
  This driver software is required when connecting the mixer to your computer. It supports up to 34 channels of audio input and 34 channels of audio output.
  Information about the software described here is available on the Yamaha Pro Audio website.
  http://www.yamahaproaudio.com/
  Information about downloading, installing and setting up the software described here is available on the website listed above. In addition, refer to the installation guide that is included with each program.

Firmware
The firmware contained in your TF-series mixer can be updated to take advantage of new features, feature improvements, and bug fixes. Details about updating the firmware are available online.
http://www.yamahaproaudio.com/
For information about updating and setting up the mixer, please refer to the firmware update guide available on the website.

Nomenclature used in this document

In this document, switch-type controls on the panel are called "keys."
Controls located on the panel are enclosed in [square brackets] (e.g., the [CUE] key) to distinguish them from virtual buttons and knobs displayed on screen. For certain controls, the name of the section appears before the brackets (e.g., FADER BANK [INPUT] key).

Panels

Front panel

1. FADER BANK section
2. iPad connector
3. USB connector
4. MUTE section
5. TAP key
6. CLEAR CUE key
7. USER DEFINED KEYS section
8. PHONES section
9. USER DEFINED KNOBS section
10. Display section
11. Ventilation holes
    To prevent overheating, do not block the ventilation holes.

Rear panel

1. OMNI OUT jacks
   Analog signal output jacks. Jacks 1–8 are male XLR3-32 type connectors; jacks 9–16 are TRS phone connectors. These jacks are used to output AUX/ MATRIX channels and STEREO channels. Nominal output level is +4 dBu. You can select which signal is output on the OMNI OUT screen.
2. ST IN jacks
   Stereo input jacks that can be used for connecting a CD player or other line level device. These jacks are unbalanced female RCA jacks. Nominal input level is -10 dBV.
3. INPUT jacks
   Combination jacks that support both XLR and TRS phone connectors. Use these jacks to connect mics and instruments. Nominal input level is -62 dBu to +10 dBu. The head amp setting for each jack is saved in memory.
4. NETWORK connector
   RJ-45 jack used to connect the unit to a computer or smart device via an Ethernet cable (CAT5e or higher recommended). Use STP (Shielded Twisted Pair) cable to prevent electromagnetic interference.
5. USB TO HOST connector
   USB connector used to connect the unit to a computer, allowing the unit to function as an audio interface. Supports input and output for up to 34 channels of up
6. FOOT SW jack
   Used for connecting an optional FC5 foot switch. You can use the connected foot switch as an effect bypass switch, a mute switch, or use it to tap the delay time.

Make sure the unit is turned off before connecting or disconnecting the power cord. Disconnect the power cord from the outlet when the unit will not be used for extended periods of time.

Workflow overview

Here's a brief overview of how to start using the TF-RACK.

1. Connect
   Connect the instruments and mics. Connect output devices such as powered speakers. Connect the included power cord to the AC IN connector.
   

When your connections are finished, turn on the power.

NOTICE

• To ensure that the state is saved properly, wait at least 10 seconds after performing the last operation before turning the product off. This product regularly saves the state of its workspace so that it can return to the previous state when the product is turned on.
• After turning the unit off, wait for at least 6 seconds before turning it on again. Rapidly turning the unit off and on in succession can cause it to malfunction.

2. Use Presets to Set Up Each Channel
   1. Select a channel.
      
   2. Press the Library key () to access the Library and recall a Preset.
      
   3. Adjust the channel's parameters. Adjust the input gain, EQ, compressor, and gate. These can be adjusted from the OVERVIEW screen or the individual configuration screens.
      > Repeat steps 1 to 3 and set up each channel.
      NOTE
      You can set up channels without using Presets. For details about the available features and parameters, refer to the Reference Manual.
      

3. Adjust the Mix
   Do a sound check and adjust the overall mix.

• Adjusting each channel using the FADER section on the OVERVIEW screen
• Adjusting SEND TO AUX for the level sent to AUX for each channel
• Muting all input channels or effects
• Turning effects on and off, adjusting the overall level of effects "FX1/FX2"
  

4. Save Your Settings
   You can save your entire mix setup as a Scene. Scenes can be recalled later as needed. (SCENE window) You can also save individual channel setups by overwriting existing Presets or by saving them as new Presets in the Library screen.

HINT
Using USER DEFINED KEYS

When the device is in the default state, USER DEFINED KEYS are configured as "Direct Scene Recall" keys. You can save a Scene by pressing and holding down one of the USER DEFINED KEYS, and recall a Scene by pressing one of the USER DEFINED KEYS.

What is a "Preset"?
A Preset is a file stored in the Library () that contains channel settings such as the type of input (instrument or mic), equalizer and compression settings, etc. The default Presets contain settings for various types of instruments, so you can use them as a starting point when setting up a channel. You can edit Presets and save them as new Presets.

What is a "Scene"?
A Scene is a file that contains all the settings for every channel in your mix.

Connections

Connecting outputs

Default signal routing for each output jack

Each OMNI OUT jack is configured by default to output a bus. You can change the bus that is output on the SETUP → OMNI OUT PATCH screen. The OMNI OUT jacks can be configured to output the following signals. AUX1–AUX20, MATRIX1–4, STEREO L, STEREO R, SUB, MONITOR L, MONITOR R, NO ASSIGN (no output signal assigned).

This section briefly introduces the console's features.

NOTE
For details about the available features and parameters, refer to the Reference Manual.

FADER BANK section

Allows you to change the fader bank displayed in the OVERVIEW screen.
The keys light to indicate which fader bank is currently selected.

1. [INPUT] key
   Displays input channels.
2. [GROUP] key
   Displays group channels.
3. [OUTPUT] key
   Displays output channels.
4. [CUSTOM] key
   Displays the channels assigned to the custom fader bank.

iPad connector

Allows you to connect an iOS device or a USB storage device.

To connect an iOS device, use the dedicated cable that was included with the device. This connector allows you to use audio files on your iOS device as background music.
When a USB storage device is connected, you can use the device to play audio files or record the mixer's output directly and save it as an audio file (format: WAV).
NOTE
When using a USB storage device for recording, use a hard disk drive or other high-speed device. (USB memory drives are not guaranteed to function properly.)
For information about compatible iOS devices, visit the Yamaha pro audio website. http://www.yamahaproaudio.com/

USB connector

Used for connecting USB memory drives.

You can connect a USB memory drive and read/write data from/to the drive.

Supported formats for USB memory drives
Drives formatted using FAT32 are supported.

„„Preventing accidental erasure
Some USB memory drives offer a write-protect feature which prevents accidental data erasure. If you save important data on a USB memory drive, we recommend using the drive's write-protect feature to protect your data from being erased. Conversely, make sure the drive's write-protect feature is turned off before trying to save data to the drive.
NOTE
The ACCESS indicator is displayed in the upper right of the screen while data is being accessed (read, written, erased, etc.). While this indicator is displayed, do not turn off the unit or disconnect the USB memory drive. The unit, the drive, and data stored on the drive could become damaged.

MUTE section

Used to mute all channels in a mute group.

1. [INPUT] key
   Allows you to mute all channels at once. The key lights when the mute group is muted.
2. [FX] key
   Allows you to mute the FX module. Insertion effects for channels in AUX9/10–AUX19/20 are bypassed. The key lights when the mute group is muted.

HINT
You can remove certain input and FX channels from the mute group by turning MUTE SAFE on for the desired channels.

TAP key

Allows you to tap and set the delay time or modulation speed used for effects on FX1/FX2 and AUX9/10– AUX19/20.
The key flashes in time with the tempo. The tempo you tap on the [TAP] key is applied to effects that have "Sync" set to "On".
You can set the [TAP] key flashing to "Off" in the SETUP screen.

[CLEAR CUE] key

Turns off the CUE for all channels.
The key lights when the CUE is turned on.

USER DEFINED KEYS section

These keys can be customized to control the desired function.
Various functions are assigned by default, such as Direct Scene Recall.
You can assign parameters to each knob in the SETUP screen.

PHONES section

1. [PHONES] jack
   This is the headphones jack used to monitor signals selected for MONITOR or CUE.
2. [LEVEL] knob
   Controls the level of the [PHONES] jack output.

USER DEFINED KNOBS section

These knobs allow you to adjust the parameters that you've assigned to them.
You can assign parameters to each knob in the SETUP screen.

Display section

Allows to you control the console by touching the touchscreen. You can also use the knobs to perform fine adjustments. You can dive further into various features by pressing the keys to display contextual menus.

1. Display
   You can use familiar touchscreen operations, such as touch, double-touch, sliding, swiping, pinching in, and pinching out.
2. Library key ()
   Displays the Library screen, from which you can recall Presets.
3. Home key ()
   Returns the display to the OVERVIEW screen. The display will change with the content set in Key Function on the PREFERENCE screen by pressing the home key while the OVERVIEW screen is displayed.
4. Menu key ()
   Displays the menu for the current operation. The key lights when a menu is available.
5. [TOUCH AND TURN] knob
   Allows you to control the parameter of the feature selected on the display.
   For information about how to control the parameters.
6. [SHIFT] key
   Provides additional functionality, such as allowing you to switch between the F (frequency) and G (gain) parameters of the EQ handle.

Operating the display

• Changing screens
  The screen switches when you touch an on-screen button.
  You can touch an area of the screen to select that area, then touch it again to switch to the configuration screen for that area. If an area is displayed in pink when selected, the area contains a parameter that can be controlled with the [TOUCH AND TURN] knob.
  To return to the OVERVIEW screen, press the Home key ().
  

NOTE
In the SETUP ¦ PREFERENCE screen, select the contents to be displayed in the OVERVIEW screen by using the Key Function ¦ [HOME] key. When multiple items are selected, the display will change with each press of the Home key ().

• Scrolling
  In the OVERVIEW screen, you can slide the screen left and right to view different channels. When a scroll bar is displayed, you can slide the screen up and down to view more content. To scroll quickly, simply use a swiping gesture.
  

• Adjusting the Q (steepness) of the EQ
  When in manual mode on the EQ screen, select one of the handles and pinch in or out to adjust the Q.
  

NOTE
This functionality is not available when multiple parameters can be controlled by one knob (i.e., 1-knob mode). Use the button at the top of the screen to switch to manual mode.

Using the [TOUCH AND TURN] knob to control parameters
As shown below, touch the parameter you want to control () and then turn the [TOUCH AND TURN] knob as desired ( ). A pink selection area is displayed around the selected parameter. In the OVERVIEW screen, touch an area of the screen to adjust the parameter in that area. In this case, a pink selection area is displayed around the selected area.

HINT
What is "1-knob" mode?
1-knob mode allows you to control multiple EQ or compressor parameters by simply turning the [TOUCH AND TURN] knob. When 1-knob mode is enabled, parameters cannot be adjusted individually. You can turn 1-knob mode on and off from the EQ and compressor screens.

Displaying the configuration screens

You can view the following screens by touching the buttons in the OVERVIEW screen. To return to the OVERVIEW screen, press the Home key () below the display.

To return to the OVERVIEW screen, press the Home key () below the display.
The OVERVIEW screen can display the CH STRIP section, the FADER section and the SELECTED CHANNEL section. When the OVERVIEW screen is first displayed, the FADER section is displayed.
By default, you can switch between the FADER section and the CH STRIP section by pressing the Home key () while the OVERVIEW screen is displayed.
In the example shown here, we will explain how to switch to the different screens from the input channel screen. For details or information about other screens, refer to the Reference Manual.

Setup

This section explains how to set up the TF series console the first time you turn it on.

Setting the internal clock

Set the console's internal clock, including the date, time, and format. The date and time set here is used as a timestamp when saving Scenes.

1. Touch the SETUP icon .
   The SETUP screen is displayed.
   
2. Touch the TIME button.
   The screen for setting the time is displayed.
   
3. Slide the desired fields up and down to set the date and time.
4. When finished, touch [OK].
5. Press the Home key ()
   The OVERVIEW screen is displayed.

NOTE
The following operations are available on the SETUP screen, including the internal clock settings. For details, refer to the Reference Manual.

• Saving and loading the console settings to/from a USB storage device
• PREFERENCE settings
• Settings for [USER DEFINED KEYS], [USER DEFINED KNOBS] and functions assigned to the foot switch
• Custom fader bank settings
• AUX bus signal type
• OMNI OUT settings
• Settings related to controlling the Tio1608-D that is connected to the NY64-D
• Recall Safe target channel settings
• Mute group settings
• Display brightness settings
• Network settings

Initialization (factory reset)

In the event that an internal memory error occurs or you have forgotten your password and cannot operate the console, you can use the following procedure to initialize the console.
NOTE
All information that you have stored in the unit will be erased when you initialize the unit. Note that the following items will not be erased.

• Network settings
• Internal clock settings
• Input/Output Port Trim on the maintenance screen
• Fader/Channel Color calibration on the maintenance screen Use caution when performing this procedure.

1. Turn on the console while holding down the Home key ( ).
2. When the maintenance screen appears, press the Initialize All Memories button.
   All settings will be restored to the factory defaults.

NOTE
When re-attaching the bracket, be sure to use the 3 screws that were original used to secure the bracket.

Rack-mounting the unit

Rack-mounting the unit requires 3 U of space.

Precautions when rackmounting
This unit is rated for operation at ambient temperatures ranging from 0 to 40°C. If you install this unit in a poorly ventilated rack along with other devices, the ambient temperature inside the rack may rise, resulting in inefficient performance. Be sure to follow the guidelines below to prevent overheating.

• When mounting this unit in a rack with devices such as power amplifiers that generate a significant amount of heat, leave more than 1 U of space between this unit and other equipment. Also, either leave the open spaces uncovered or install appropriate ventilating panels to minimize the possibility of heat buildup.
• To ensure sufficient airflow, leave the rear of the rack open and position it at least 10 cm from walls or other surfaces.
  If the rear of the rack cannot be left open, install a commercially available fan or similar ventilation product to secure sufficient airflow. If you have installed a fan kit, there may be cases in which closing the rear of the rack will produce a greater cooling effect.
  Refer to the rack and/or fan unit manual for details.

Installing an NY card

Before installing an NY card in the expansion slot, confirm that the card is compatible with TF-series consoles. For information about compatible cards, visit the Yamaha pro audio website. http://www.yamahaproaudio.com/

1. Confirm that the unit is turned off.
   
   Inserting or removing a card while the unit is turned on may cause electrical shock and damage to the device.
2. Remove the screws that secure the slot cover, and then remove the cover.
   The screws will be used to secure the NY card. The slot cover will not be used while the card is installed; store it in a safe place for later use.
   
3. Align the sides of the NY card with the guide rails inside the expansion slot, and then insert the NY card.
   Make sure you insert the card fully, so that the connection terminal on the NY card is firmly connected to the connection terminal inside the slot.
   Make sure the sides of the NY card with the guide rails of the device you are installing it in.
   
4. Use the screws you removed in step 2 to secure the NY card.
   Do not use the console without using the screws to secure the NY card.
   Using the console without securing the card may cause damage to the product and malfunctions.

NOTE
When connecting a Tio1608-D, refer to the Tio1608-D Owner's Manual.

Removing the NY card

1. Confirm that the unit is turned off.
   
   Inserting or removing a card while the unit is turned on may cause electrical shock and damage to the device.
2. Remove the screws that secure the NY card.
3. Insert a flat-head screwdriver or similar tool into the notch at the bottom of the NY card, and pull out the card slightly.
   
4. Hold the NY card by its panel, and slowly pull the card out of the console.
5. 
   Attach the slot cover (removed when you installed the card) and use the screws to secure it.Do not use the console without attaching the slot cover.
   Using the console without attaching the slot cover may cause damage to the product and malfunctions.

TF-RACK Troubleshooting

Specifications

General specifications

*1. Pull-up/down function is not supported.
*2. Total Harmonic Distortion is measured with a –18 dB/octave filter@80 kHz.
*3. Hum & Noise are measured with an A-Weight filter.
*4. Crosstalk is measured with a –30 dB/octave filter@22 kHz.

Input/output characteristics

*1. "Sensitivity" is the necessary input level for outputting at +4 dBu (1.23 V) or at standard levels, when all faders and level controls are set to maximum.
*2. The XLR-3-31 connector is a balanced-type connector (1=GND, 2=HOT, 3=COLD).
*3. The TRS phone connector is a balanced-type connector (Tip=HOT, Ring=COLD, Sleeve=GND).
*4. This is 0 dBu=0.775 Vms for all specifications.
*5. The input jacks use +48V DC (phantom power), which can be set on/off for each jack in the software of this unit.

*1. The XLR-3-32 connector is a balanced-type connector (1=GND, 2=HOT, 3=COLD).
*2. The TRS phone connector is a balanced-type connector (Tip=HOT, Ring=COLD, Sleeve=GND).
*3. The stereo phone jack connector is an unbalanced-type connector (Tip=LEFT, Ring=RIGHT, Sleeve=GND).
*4. This value is when the PHONES LEVEL knob is set 16 dB lower than the maximum position.
*5. This is 0 dBu=0.775 Vms for all specifications.
*6. The DA connectors all feature 24-bit linear/128x oversampling.

* The contents of this manual apply to the latest specifications as of the publishing date. To obtain the latest manual, access the Yamaha website then download the manual file. http://www.yamahaproaudio.com/

Source code distribution
For three years after the final factory shipment, you may request from Yamaha the source code for any portions of the product which are licensed under the GNU General Public License/GNU Lesser General Public License/RealNetworks Public Source License by writing to the following address: 10-1 Nakazawa-cho, Naka-ku, Hamamatsu, 430-8650, JAPAN
PA Division, Yamaha Corporation
The source code will be provided at no charge; however, we may require you to reimburse Yamaha for the cost of delivering the source code to you. The source code can be downloaded by visiting the following URL: http://www.yamahaproaudio.com/

• Note that we shall bear no responsibility whatsoever for any damage arising from changes (additions/deletions) made to the software for this product by a third party other than Yamaha (or party authorized by Yamaha).
• Note that re-use of source code released to the public domain by Yamaha is not guaranteed. Yamaha shall not bear any responsibility whatsoever for the source code.

TF-RACK


Unit: mm

ADDRESS LIST

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

Explanation of Graphical Symbols
The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated "dangerous voltage" within the product's enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.
The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the product.

1. Read these instructions.
2. Keep these instructions.
3. Heed all warnings.
4. Follow all instructions.
5. Do not use this apparatus near water.
6. Clean only with dry cloth.
7. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
8. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or groundingtype plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
10. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
11. Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
12. Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by the manufacturer, or sold with the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury from tip-over.
    
13. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
14. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.