Apogee Symphony I/O User Manual
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Apogee Symphony I/O User Manual

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Apogee Symphony I/O Users Guide - Print Version
December 2011
This version of the Symphony I/O Users Guide is for PRINT purposes only.
The latest and most up-to-date Users Guide is available at:
http://support.apogeedigital.com/help/symphony-io/
In this User's Guide you'll find complete information about the Symphony I/O hardware
interface and its companion software control application, Apogee Maestro.

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Summary of Contents for Apogee Symphony I/O

  • Page 1 Apogee Symphony I/O Users Guide - Print Version December 2011 This version of the Symphony I/O Users Guide is for PRINT purposes only. The latest and most up-to-date Users Guide is available at: http://support.apogeedigital.com/help/symphony-io/ In this User’s Guide you’ll find complete information about the Symphony I/O hardware...

  • Page 2: Table Of Contents

    Pro Tools HD Audio Interface Mode! Requirements when connecting to Avid Pro Tools PCI Cards:! Requirements to run Maestro software, to control Symphony I/O via USB:! 14 Symphony PCI Quick Start Guide! Step 1 - Install the Symphony 64 PCIe Card (sold separately)!
  • Page 3 Pro Tools PCI Quick Start Guide! Step 1 - Install Pro Tools HD cards! Step 2 - Connect Symphony I/O to the Pro Tools HD PCI Card! Step 3 - Connect Symphony I/O to the Software Remote Mac! Step 4 - Download and Install Symphony I/O Software! Step 5 - Connect Headphones, Speakers and Inputs! Step 6 - Configure Pro Tools Software!
  • Page 4 I/O Module Connections - Standalone Audio Interface Mode! Connecting Headphones! Making Hardware Clock Connections! Locking External Devices to Symphony I/O! Locking Symphony I/O to External Devices! Locking multiple Symphony I/Os with Loop Clock! Locking multiple Symphony I/Os to External Devices!
  • Page 5 Configuration Settings in Apple Logic Pro! Configuration Settings in Apple GarageBand! Configuration Settings in Avid Pro Tools! I/O Setup ! Audio Routing Between Symphony I/O and Pro Tools! Working with Your Symphony I/O System! Setting Speaker and Headphone Output Levels! Front Panel Encoders!
  • Page 6 Pro Tools HD Audio Interface Mode! General Troubleshooting - All Audio Interface Modes! Troubleshooting Signal Flow! Further Troubleshooting Resources! Symphony I/O Hardware! Installing I/O Modules! Symphony I/O Screws! Directions! Auto Power! Updating Symphony I/O! Specifications! Connector Pinouts! Symphony I/O Warranty Information and Legal Notices! Warnings!

  • Page 7: Getting Started

    Getting Started Package Contents The following items are included in the Symphony I/O package. Software and Firmware for this Apogee Product is available online only at http://www.apogeedigital.com/downloads.php#SYMIO • Symphony I/O • USB Cable • Power Cable • Rack Ears and Screws...

  • Page 8: An Introduction To The Symphony I/O System

    An Introduction to the Symphony I/O System Thank you for your purchase of Symphony I/O, the latest flagship digital audio interface from Apogee Electronics!   More than the latest High-end product from Apogee, Symphony I/O is the completion of the Symphony System and the platform for Apogee development and technology for years to come.

  • Page 9: Audio Interface Mode (Aim)

    Symphony - to connect to Symphony 64 PCI and Symphony Mobile Express/34 cards. Pro Tools HD - to connect to Pro Tools HD PCI cards. Symphony I/O may be controlled from a Mac via USB, though the Mac connection isn’t required for audio operation.

  • Page 10: Flexible Input/Output Architecture

    • 8 assignable analog insert sends and returns Hardware and Software Control Symphony I/O’s operating parameters may be set from a variety of hardware and software controls, listed below. Though several options are offered, you may choose the hardware and software controls that best suit your individual preferences.

  • Page 11: Symphony I/O Front Panel

    Symphony I/O Front Panel Basic parameters such as levels and clocking may be set using the two front panel encoders. Apogee Maestro Software Apogee Maestro provides complete control of all Symphony I/O settings.

  • Page 12: Apple Os X Control Panels

    Apple OS X Control Panels Levels and some clock parameters may be set from the OS X System Preferences > Sound window and the Audio MIDI Setup utility. Apple Mac Keyboard Set output levels directly from your Mac keyboard’s volume control.

  • Page 13: Symphony I/O Release 4 Requirements

    • Symphony 64 - Apple Mac Pro - 2GB memory required, 4 GB recommended Important - Use Symphony 64 Driver 1.1.4 or greater, included in the Symphony I/O Release 4 Software Installer. • Symphony Mobile - Apple MacBook Pro with an Express/34 card slot - 2GB memory required, 4 GB recommended •...

  • Page 14: Pro Tools Hd Audio Interface Mode

    Pro Tools HD Audio Interface Mode A Symphony I/O based Pro Tools system consists of two independent computer connections: audio (to a Pro Tools HD PCI card) and software control (via USB to an Intel Mac running Maestro 2). In the case where PCI cards are installed in a PowerPC Mac or Windows computer, it’s possible to run Maestro from a separate Intel Mac, such...

  • Page 15: Symphony Pci Quick Start Guide

    Symphony PCI Quick Start Guide This Quick Start Guide describes how to configure one Symphony I/O with a Symphony PCI card or other device to record and play back audio. Step 1 - Install the Symphony 64 PCIe Card (sold separately) a.

  • Page 16: Step 2 - Connect Symphony I/O To The Symphony 64 Card

    Step 2 - Connect Symphony I/O to the Symphony 64 Card Using the 3 meter PC-32 cable included with the Symphony 64 card, connect the Symphony I/O’s Main port to the Symphony 64 PCIe card’s Channels 1-32 port as shown below.

  • Page 17: Step 3 - Download And Install Symphony I/O Software

    Step 3 - Download and Install Symphony I/O Software Download the most current Symphony I/O Release package from the Apogee website: http://www.apogeedigital.com/downloads.php#SYMIO   Once downloaded, the package will open automatically to reveal the following contents: • Symphony I/O Software Installer •...

  • Page 18: Step 5 - Playback From Itunes

    Apogee DA8-IFC Connect speakers to the rear panel analog outputs 1-2 using an cable or equivalent. Step 5 - Playback from iTunes After restarting your Mac, a dialog box will prompt you to choose Symphony 64 for Mac sound output. Click Yes.

  • Page 19: Step 6 - Configure Apple Logic Pro

    Click Apply Changes   By selecting Symphony I/O input and output labels in Logic, the labels you see in Logic’s Channel Strip input and output slots correspond exactly to Symphony I/O’s hardware inputs and outputs, making I/O assignment much easier.

  • Page 20: Step 7 - Open Apogee Maestro Software

    Select the labels in the Provided by Driver column c. Close the I/O Labels window Step 7 - Open Apogee Maestro Software Apogee Maestro software provides complete control of all Symphony I/O settings, from levels to formats to routing.
  • Page 21 Open Maestro by clicking on the Apogee Maestro icon found in the Applications folder.  ...

  • Page 22: Pro Tools Pci Quick Start Guide

    Step 2 - Connect Symphony I/O to the Pro Tools HD PCI Card Using the 3 meter DigiLink cable included with the Pro Tools HD card (or an Apogee PC-32 IFC Cable), connect the Symphony I/O’s Main port to the HD Core card port as shown below.

  • Page 23: Step 3 - Connect Symphony I/O To The Software Remote Mac

    Step 3 - Connect Symphony I/O to the Software Remote Mac   Using a standard Type A - Type B USB cable, connect Symphony I/O's USB port to an Apple Intel Mac USB port. Ensure that the cable is certified for USB 2.0 operation.

  • Page 24: Step 5 - Connect Headphones, Speakers And Inputs

    Step 5 - Connect Headphones, Speakers and Inputs Apogee AD8-IFC cable Connect line inputs to rear panel analog inputs 1-2 using an or equivalent. Apogee DA8-IFC Connect speakers to the rear panel analog outputs 1-2 using an cable or equivalent.

  • Page 25: Step 6 - Configure Pro Tools Software

    Step 8 - Open Apogee Maestro Software Apogee Maestro software provides complete control of all Symphony I/O settings, from levels to formats to routing. Open Maestro by clicking on the Apogee Maestro icon found in the Applications folder.

  • Page 26: Symphony I/O Features

    Apogee icon will glow softly, indicating that Symphony I/O is in Standby. Press the power button for a half second to power up Symphony I/O. Symphony I/O may be configured to power on as soon as an AC voltage is present on the rear panel AC Input.

  • Page 27: Symphony I/O Rear Panel

    3. Cooling Fan - The cooling fan is automatically controlled by an internal thermostat. There are no user controls for the fan. 4. Symphony Main - This PC-32 port is used to connect Symphony I/O to a Symphony 64 or Mobile PCI card. This port may also be used to chain multiple...
  • Page 28 6. Ethernet - This RJ-45 port is included for future development purposes. 7. USB - This USB “Type B” receptacle is used to connect Symphony I/O to an Apple Mac computer. If Audio Interface Mode is set to USB Audio, audio may be streamed to and from the Mac.

  • Page 29: Analog I/O + 8 Optical I/O Module

    8 Analog I/O + 8 Optical I/O Module 1. Analog IN - This DB-25 connector accepts 8 analog balanced line level inputs. When a Mic Pre Option card is installed in slot 2, this connector accepts the 8 balanced microphone level signals. The connector is wired to the "Tascam" 8 channel format.

  • Page 30: Analog I/O + 8 Aes I/O Module

    8 Analog I/O + 8 AES I/O Module 1. Analog IN - This DB-25 connector accepts 8 analog balanced line level inputs. When a Mic Pre Option card is installed in slot 2, this connector accepts the 8 balanced microphone level signals. The connector is wired to the "Tascam" 8 channel format.

  • Page 31: Analog In + 16 Optical Out I/O Module

    16 Analog IN + 16 Optical Out I/O Module 1. Analog IN 1 - This DB-25 connector accepts analog balanced line level inputs 1-8. When a Mic Pre Option card is installed in slot 2, this connector accepts the 8 balanced microphone level signals.

  • Page 32: Analog Out + 16 Optical In I/O Module

    16 Analog Out + 16 Optical In I/O Module 1. Analog OUT 1 - This DB-25 connector provides analog balanced line level outputs 1-8. The connector is wired to the "Tascam" 8 channel format. The hex screw (to secure mating connectors) accepts a 4-40 threaded thumbscrew. See Analog OUT Pinout for detailed wiring information.

  • Page 33: Mic Pre I/O Module

    Mic Pre I/O Module 1. INSTRUMENTS 1-4 - These 1/4" TS connectors accept input from a wide range of instruments, including keyboards, guitars and other electronic instruments. The input impedance is high enough to avoid the loading of input sources such as passive electric guitars and basses.
  • Page 34 How does the 8 Mic Preamp Module work? The Mic Preamp Module upgrades the functionality of any Analog I/O Module by adding mic preamps to the existing line inputs. A direct connection between the Mic Preamp Module and the Analog I/O Module inserts a mic preamp stage before the line inputs.

  • Page 35: Maestro Features

    Maestro Features While basic settings may be made from the front panel, Symphony I/O has been designed primarily to be controlled from Apogee Maestro software.   • Devices Sidebar • Device Icon and ID Button • Input Tab Window • Output Tab Window •...

  • Page 36: Device Icon & Id Button

    Device Icon & ID Button   A device icon and ID button is placed adjacent to each row of parameters to identify the hardware unit to which the row belongs. By clicking on the ID button, the corresponding hardware unit’s front panel will illuminate. Each hardware unit is assigned a Peripheral Prefix (A-Z, found in Maestro’s Device Settings tab window) which is displayed on the ID button.

  • Page 37: Input Tab Window

    Symphony I/O’s analog to digital converters. The calibration process is described in greater detail in Calibrating Symphony I/O. 4. Analog Ref Level - When calibrating Symphony I/O, use this drop down menu to choose the analog reference level for each A/D conversion channel. Option-select any channel to set the analog reference for all channels.

  • Page 38: Output Tab Window

    Calibrating Symphony I/O.   4. Analog Ref Level - When calibrating Symphony I/O, use this drop down menu to choose the analog reference level for each D/A conversion channel. Option-select any channel to set the analog reference for all channels.

  • Page 39: Input/Output Tab Windows - Parameter Order

    4. digital input or output meters.   For example, if an 8 Analog I/O + 8 AES I/O Module is installed in Symphony I/O's lower slot and a 16 Analog In + 16 Optical Out is installed in the upper slot, parameters appear in the Input tab window in the following order: 1.

  • Page 40: Device Settings Tab Window

    Parameters appear in the Output tab window in the following order: 1. 8 Analog output controls 2. analog speaker and headphone controls 3. one S/PDIF Mirrors drop-down for each I/O Module 4. 8 AES output meters 5. 16 Optical output meters.  ...

  • Page 41: Routing Tab Windows

    The functionality of the Routing tab windows vary based on the audio interface mode selected. Each audio interface mode is described below.   Input Routing -Symphony Audio Interface Mode The Input Routing tab window determines how Symphony I/O hardware inputs are routed to audio software inputs.    ...

  • Page 42: Output Routing - Symphony Audio Interface Mode

      Output Routing - Symphony Audio Interface Mode The Output Routing tab window determines how audio software outputs are routed to Symphony I/O hardware outputs.   1. Hardware Outputs Row - The hardware analog and digital outputs of all peripherals connected to the Symphony card are displayed in this row.

  • Page 43: Standalone Routing - Standalone Audio Interface Mode

    In Standalone mode, the PC-32 audio streams (to and from a Symphony 64 card) are not active, and thus don't appear on the grid. If multiple Symphony I/O in Standalone audio interface mode are detected, a separate Standalone Routing grid is displayed for each interface.

  • Page 44: Routing - Pro Tools Hd Audio Interface Mode

    By default, analog inputs are routed sequentially to digital outputs and digital inputs are routed to analog outputs, the desired routing to use Symphony I/O as a standalone A-to-D and D-to-A converter. Similar to the Input and Output Routing grids (Symphony audio interface mode) marker movement is restricted based on the routing capability of the system.

  • Page 45: System Setup Tab Window

    The following sources may be selected. • Internal - Symphony I/O is clocked from its internal crystal. • WC - Symphony I/O is clocked from an external word clock signal connected to the rear panel WC input. • Digital - Symphony I/O is clocked from a digital audio input. The digital clock sources listed in the drop down menu vary according to the digital audio inputs included on the installed I/O cards.

  • Page 46: System Setup - Standalone Audio Interface Mode

    Internal - Symphony I/O is clocked from its internal crystal. WC - Symphony I/O is clocked from an external word clock signal connected to the rear panel WC input. Digital - Symphony I/O is clocked from a digital audio input. The digital clock sources listed in the drop down menu vary according to the digital audio inputs included on the installed I/O cards.

  • Page 47: System Setup - Pro Tools Hd Audio Interface Mode

    the sample rate of the external source is displayed and the drop down is greyed out. 3. Peak Hold - This pop-up menu sets the time that peak indications are held on software and front panel meters. 4. Over Hold - This pop-up menu sets the time that over indications are held on software and front panel meters.

  • Page 48: Menu Bar Menus

    Check Launch Maestro automatically when connecting a device to launch Maestro when the Mac is started. Check Display Pop-ups to display the Symphony I/O Pop-up on the Mac Desktop to show Speaker and Headphone Level adjustments. Hide Apogee Maestro 2 - Choose this menu item to hide the Maestro application.
  • Page 49 Close - Choose this menu item to close the Preferences panel when opened. Rescan - Choose this menu item to re-initialize the link between Maestro software and Apogee hardware connected to the Mac, in the case where the hardware is correctly connected and powered on but not detected in Maestro.

  • Page 50: Connecting Your Symphony I/O System

    • Connect analog line level inputs to the Analog IN DB-25 connector, using an Apogee AD8-IFC breakout cable or equivalent. • To match the reference level of Symphony I/O with that of the connected device, set Analog Ref Level in the Maestro Input and Output tab windows. For example, when connecting analog inputs and outputs to a professional console, set Analog Ref Level to +4 dBu.

  • Page 51: Optical In

    • Connect powered speakers to the Analog OUT DB-25 connector, channels 1-2 (or 1-6 for 5.1 and 1-8 for 7.1 speaker configurations), using an Apogee DA8-IFC breakout cable or equivalent. Select the desired Speaker configuration in the Maestro Output tab window.

  • Page 52: Aes In/Out

    AES In/Out The AES In/Out connectors are found on these IO Modules:   • 8 Analog I/O + 8 AES I/O • Connect AES inputs and outputs to the AES In/Out DB-25 connector, using an Apogee AES-IFC breakout cable or equivalent.

  • Page 53: S/Pdif In/Out

    S/PDIF In/Out The S/PDIF In/Out connectors are found on these IO Modules:   • 8 Analog I/O + 8 Optical I/O • 8 Analog I/O + 8 AES I/O • 16 Analog In + 16 Optical Out • 16 Optical In + 16 Analog Out  ...

  • Page 54: I/O Numbering With 2 Io Modules

    I/O Module's Analog IN connector, through gain circuitry in the Mic Pre I/O Module, and back to the lower I/O Module's A/D conversion stage. Connect instruments to the rear panel INSTRUMENTS 1/4" connectors. I/O Numbering with 2 IO Modules When two IO Modules are installed, Card 1 (lower slot) inputs and outputs are numbered lower in Maestro software than Card 2 (upper slot) inputs and outputs.
  • Page 55 resultant numbering of inputs and outputs for 2 8 Analog I/O + 8 Optical I/O Modules are shown below.

  • Page 56: I/O Module Connections - Standalone Audio Interface Mode

    When Audio Interface Mode is set to Standalone, I/O Module inputs may be routed directly to outputs in order to use Symphony I/O's A/D and D/A conversion stages with other interfaces or standalone digital devices. A USB connection between Symphony I/ O and an Intel Mac provides the link between Apogee Maestro software and Symphony I/O, in order to make calibration, meter configuration, digital format and...

  • Page 57: Making Hardware Clock Connections

    Avid Pro Tools Loop Sync, meaning that a Symphony I/O may be freely incorporated into a Pro Tools Loop Sync chain. • Digital audio inputs and outputs - Use Symphony I/O's digital audio I/O to send and receive clock between Sympony I/O and digital devices that don't include work clock I/O.

  • Page 58: Locking Multiple Symphony I/Os With Loop Clock

    2. If no other devices are to be connected, press in the rear panel termination (WC Term) switch. 3. To lock Symphony I/O to a digital input, connect the source's digital output to Symphony I/O digital input. 1 SIO WC in to device WC out, SIO set to WC clock Once clock connections are made, see Setting the Clock Source to complete the process.

  • Page 59: Locking Multiple Symphony I/Os To External Devices

    To lock multiple Symphony I/Os to external devices such as a master clock, first connect Loop Clock as shown above. Then connect a BNC cable between the device's word clock output and one Symphony I/O’s WC In. Configure this Symphony I/ O as the Loop Master as described in Setting the Clock Source.

  • Page 60: Connecting To A Symphony Mobile Card

    Symphony Audio Interface Mode   When Audio Interface Mode is set to Symphony, one (1) Symphony I/O with up to 32 channels of input and output may be connected to each port of a Symphony 64 PCI card. Connect one end of an Apogee PC-32 cable (supplied with the PCI card) to the first Symphony I/O Main port and the other end to the Symphony 64's Channels 1-32 port.
  • Page 61 PC-32 cable lengths of up to 30 meters between the Mac and Symphony I/O are supported at sample rates of 44.1-96 kHz. Lengths up to 5 meters are supported at sample rates of 176.4-192 kHz.

  • Page 62: Connecting To Pro Tools Hd Pci Cards

    Connect one end of an Apogee PC-32 (or Avid DigiLink) multichannel cable to the Symphony I/O Main port and the other end to a Pro Tools HD PCI Core card, as shown below. Connect additional Symphony I/Os to additional HD PCI cards.

  • Page 63: Connecting To Pro Tools Hd Native Cards

    Tools HD Native PCI card. Connect one end of an Apogee PC-32 (or Avid DigiLink) multichannel cable to the Symphony I/O Main port and the other end to Port 1 of the HD Native PCI Core card. Connect a second Symphony I/O to Port 2.

  • Page 64: Symphony Audio Interface Mode

    Using a standard Type A - Type B USB cable, connect Symphony I/O's USB port to an Apple Intel Mac USB port. Ensure that the cable is certified for USB 2.0 operation. Symphony Audio Interface Mode When Audio Interface Mode is set to Symphony PCI, the USB port is used for updating firmware only.

  • Page 65: Standalone Interface Mode

    Symphony I/O to be connected to Pro Tools HD cards installed in Apple Mac G5 or Windows computers while running Maestro on an Apple Intel Mac. Standalone Interface Mode When Audio Interface Mode is set to Standalone, a USB connection between...

  • Page 66: Configuring Your Symphony I/O System

    Symphony - to connect to Symphony 64 PCI and Symphony Mobile Express/34 cards. Pro Tools HD - to connect to Pro Tools HD PCI cards. Symphony I/O may be controlled from a Mac via USB, though the Mac connection isn’t required for audio operation.

  • Page 67: Setting The Audio Interface Mode

    - inactive Audio Interface Modes are shown in flashing text. Once the desired Audio Interface Mode is shown, press the right-hand encoder to confirm the selection. Symphony I/O will re-boot in the new Audio Interface Mode.   The currently selected Audio Interface Mode is also indicated in Maestro's Device Settings tab.

  • Page 68: Symphony Audio Interface Mode

    Symphony Mobile PCI cards. All audio and control data is transmitted via Apogee PC-32 cables (included with the Symphony 64 or Mobile card). When Audio Interface Mode is set to Symphony, the basic signal flow of Symphony I/O is shown below.

  • Page 69: Pro Tools Hd Audio Interface Mode

    Software control data between Symphony I/O and Apogee Maestro software is transmitted via a USB connection.   Connect Symphony I/O's USB port to a USB port on your Apple Mac to set these parameters in Maestro: • Calibration • Meter Configuration •...
  • Page 70 When Audio Interface Mode is set to Pro Tools HD, the basic signal flow of Symphony I/ O is shown below.

  • Page 71: Standalone Interface Mode

    I/O Module output. The most common Standalone application is the use of Symphony I/O as a standalone A/D - D/A converter, where analog inputs are routed to the I/O Module's AES or Optical outputs and AES or Optical inputs are routed to analog outputs.

  • Page 72: Navigating In Maestro

    When navigating in Maestro for the first time, start at the Devices sidebar, on the left hand side of the Maestro window. All the Apogee devices connected to your Mac are displayed in Maestro’s Devices sidebar, organized by the System (such as Symphony, USB or Firewire) and the Apogee hardware peripherals that make up each system.
  • Page 73 Settings Tabs Once a peripheral is selected in the Devices sidebar, settings for that peripheral are displayed in the Main area, under the tab selection. In the case of Symphony I/O, settings are distributed amongst the following tabs: • Input - settings pertaining to I/O Module analog and Digital Inputs are displayed in this tab.

  • Page 74: Setting The Clock Source

    Setting the Clock Source Setting the Clock Source is one of the first steps when configuring your Symphony I/O system. Depending on the Audio Interface Mode, the Clock Source may be set from Symphony I/O’s front panel, from Maestro’s System Setup tab, or from Audio MIDI Setup.

  • Page 75: Standalone Audio Interface Mode

    Symphony I/O via the PC-32 (or DigiLink) connection. For the most compatible operation with Pro Tools software, it is not possible to set clock source or sample rate from Maestro or from Symphony I/O's front panel when Audio Interface Mode is set to Pro Tools HD.

  • Page 76: Pro Tools Clock Source

    192 I/O drop down menu may be used. • To lock Symphony I/O to its Word Clock Input, select Word Clock (sample rate) in Pro Tools' Clock Source drop down menu, where sample rate equals the actual rate of the session.

  • Page 77: Setting The Sample Rate

    Core Audio sample rate. For example, if Symphony I/O is locked to an Apogee Big Ben Master Clock, be sure to set Big Ben’s sample rate to the same rate as your DAW audio application session.

  • Page 78: Configuring Speaker And Headphone Outputs

    Pro Tools HD Audio Interface Mode   When Symphony I/O is connected to Pro Tools HD cards, the sample rate is set in Pro Tools software when creating a session. Once a session is created at a specific sample rate, it can't be changed from that rate.

  • Page 79: Configuring Digital I/O Formats

      S/PDIF Coax Input Symphony I/O’s internal architecture employs 16 channels of input and output per I/O Module. Since the S/PDIF Coax Inputs are the 17th and 18th inputs, it’s necessary to replace a stereo pair of analog or digital inputs with the S/PDIF Coax Input in order for the S/PDIF Coax Input to appear on the Routing tab grid.
  • Page 80 Variable, it’s easy to obtain a satisfactory input level without a lot of fuss. When connecting Symphony I/O’s Inputs and outputs to the same device (for example, a mixing console), it’s best to set the analog output reference level (in Maestro’s Output tab window) to the same setting as the input reference level, to preserve unity gain.
  • Page 81 Step 3 - Adjust Trims When interfacing even the highest quality analog gear, slight level adjustments are necessary to ensure that each channel’s actual gain equals the theoretical gain based on the analog and digital references selected. Follow these steps to trim each channel: 1.

  • Page 82: Configuring Audio Software

    Mac Sound Dialog Once you’ve installed Symphony I/O software and restarted your Mac, the dialog box shown below appears. Click Yes to use Symphony I/O for sound input and output for applications such as iTunes, Quicktime and other audio utilities.

  • Page 83: Configuration Settings In Os X Audio Midi Setup

    Configuration Settings in OS X Audio MIDI Setup Symphony I/O may be selected for Mac Sound I/O in Audio MIDI Setup. 1. To open Audio MIDI Setup, choose Applications > Utilities > Audio MIDI Setup. 2. In AMS, choose Window > Show Audio Window.

  • Page 84: Configuration Settings In Os X Sound Preferences

    Configuration Settings in OS X Sound Preferences Symphony I/O may be selected for Mac Sound I/O in the OS X Sound Preferences.   1. Choose Apple > System Preferences and click Sound. 2. Click Output. 3. Select Symphony64: PCI Card 1, Port 1 (Chs 1-32).

  • Page 85: Configuration Settings In Apple Logic Pro

      By selecting Symphony I/O input and output labels in Logic, the labels you see in Logic’s Channel Strip input and output slots correspond exactly to Symphony I/O’s hardware inputs and outputs, making I/O assignment much easier.
  • Page 86 1. In Logic, choose Options > Audio > I/O Labels. 2. Select the labels in the Provided by Driver column. 3. Close the IO Labels window.

  • Page 87: Configuration Settings In Apple Garageband

    4. Show the Track Info pane by double-clicking the track icon, then click Real Instrument. 5. At the bottom of the pane, set the Input Source to the desired Symphony I/O input (or input pair). 6. Set Monitor to On.

  • Page 88: Configuration Settings In Avid Pro Tools

    16 channels of audio (12 channels @ 176.4-192kHz)) with the Pro Tools HD PCI card. When 1 I/O Module is installed (or 1 I/O Module plus a Mic Pre Module), Symphony I/O is detected as 1 192 I/O, providing 16 bi-directional audio channels.

  • Page 89: I/O Setup

    Compensation.   Symphony I/O's digital inputs and outputs are also routed as those of a 192 I/O, with a few exceptions based on the I/O Module installed: 1. When using an 8 Analog + 8 Optical I/O Module, Symphony I/O's optical I/O is listed as AES I/O.
  • Page 90 Symphony I/Os. For example, if an 8 Analog + 8 Optical and an 8 Analog + 8 AES module were installed in a Symphony I/O, the labels in the I/O Setup window should be modified as shown below.

  • Page 91: Audio Routing Between Symphony I/O And Pro Tools

    Audio Routing Between Symphony I/O and Pro Tools   Routing between Symphony I/O and Pro Tools software is charted below for each I/O Module combination. Note that the Input, Output and Insert tabs in Pro Tools' I/O Setup window must be reset to default as described above.

  • Page 92: Working With Your Symphony I/O System

    By default, the front panel OLED Display presents the necessary controls to select an output and set its audio level. Once Symphony I/O has completed its power-up sequence, turn the left hand encoder to select the speaker outputs, headphone output 1 or headphone output 2.

  • Page 93: Mac Keyboard

    1. In OS X’s System Preferences > Sound, select Symphony 64 as the device for sound output. 2. In Maestro's System Setup Tab window select the Symphony I/O to be controlled in the Keyboard Volume Control > Peripheral drop down menu.

  • Page 94: Using Soft Limit

    Using Soft Limit Soft Limit is Apogee’s proprietary analog process for taming transients before A/D conversion. By gently rounding transients in a transparent manner, it’s possible to maximize level BEFORE the A/D conversion stage. Soft Limit Settings Soft Limit may be engaged on each analog input in Maestro’s Input tab window. The following settings are available: -2 dBfs - Soft Limit begins to attenuate transient peaks at a level of -2 dBfs.

  • Page 95: Working With Front Panel And Maestro Level Meters

    OLED Display.   Front Panel Meters Symphony I/O includes 2 banks of 8 level meters on the front panel. Select the audio signals to be displayed on each bank using the Meters buttons in the Device Settings tab window.

  • Page 96: Working With Vbus

    Working with VBus Apogee's VBus is only available when Audio Interface Mode is set to Symphony. VBus creates virtual hardware buses to allow expanded routing of audio within one application or between different audio applications. For example, it’s possible in Logic Pro to record a submix of multiple audio tracks onto a new audio track as described below.

  • Page 97: Working In Your Digital Audio Studio

    Over may occur.   Now, with a 24-bit system (such as Symphony I/O), the noise floor is so low that there’s no real penalty for undershooting the gain setting and recording at a lower level. There IS a penalty for overshooting the gain setting - a digital Over that results in significantly...

  • Page 98: Understanding Latency

      Understanding Latency   What is latency? When recording with most computer-based digital audio applications, a delay between the input and output of the recording system often disturbs the timing of the musicians who are performing. This delay, known at latency, means that the musician hears the notes he produces a few milliseconds after having produced them.
  • Page 99 Do I need the Maestro Mixer? The Maestro mixer serves to provide a low latency listening mix while recording. Therefore if you’re using Symphony I/O to listen to iTunes or audio from another program, there’s no need to use the mixer.
  • Page 100 The I/O Buffer setting found in most audio software is one of the most crucial, but often ignored, settings in a Mac-based recording system. When choosing a buffer setting, a compromise between the latency through the application and the amount of computer processor power accessible to the application must be made.

  • Page 101: Faqs

    • 16 Analog Out + 16 Optical In • Mic Pre Module Q: Why do I see overs on Symphony I/Oʼs meters but not in my DAWʼs meters? A: Symphony I/O and Maestro’s over indicators are set to light when 3 or more consecutive full scale samples occur.
  • Page 102   Q: Is it possible to run a legacy Symphony system and a Symphony I/O on the same Mac? A: Each system may be run on the same Mac, but not simultaneously. When using an X-Symphony equipped Rosetta Series or X-Series converters, open Maestro 1;...
  • Page 103 Q: Will Symphony I/O work without a Symphony 64 PCI-e card? A: Yes, Symphony I/O is compatible with a Pro Tools HD Core card for connecting to Pro Tools, USB 2.0 for connecting to any Core Audio application or connect to any analog or digital I/O equipped interface via Symphony I/O’s analog or digital I/O.

  • Page 104: Maestro Faqs

    ‘MAIN’ port can be connected to Symphony 64 or the Pro Tools HD Core card. Therefore Symphony I/O cannot be connected to Symphony and Pro Tools HD at the same time, whether it be one Mac Pro or two. Symphony I/O’s ‘THRU’ port is for connecting multiple Symphony I/O’s on one system only.

  • Page 105: Troubleshooting

    3. Verify Hardware-Software Control Link Verify system status When using Symphony I/O with the Symphony 64 PCI card, first check the 64 card's Status LEDs, found on the card's rear panel. 1. If only one card is installed, a blue and white LED should be solidly lit.

  • Page 106: Symptoms And Solutions

    If Symphony I/O hardware is successfully detected in Maestro, the system status may also be determined in the System Status window, found in Maestro's Toolbar. When System Status is displayed as "Ready", all detected hardware interfaces are properly connected and clocked.
  • Page 107 DAW session; Maestro System Status is "Clock Mismatched"; the Symphony 64 card's white status LED is blinking. Solution - This behavior indicates that Symphony I/O is locked to an external clock at the indicated rate, but that this rate is mismatched to the session sample rate. Match the rate of the external clock to the rate of the DAW session.

  • Page 108: Pro Tools Hd Audio Interface Mode

    Symptom - Upon launching Pro Tools, the message "Unable to find an audio interface attached to the first HD card". Solution - Verify that Symphony I/O's audio interface mode is set to Pro Tools HD. See Setting the Audio Interface Mode.

  • Page 109: General Troubleshooting - All Audio Interface Modes

    If not, check the connection between Symphony I/O and the computer. Check that the audio software is configured for use with Symphony I/O (via the Symphony PCI card, the Pro Tools HD card or the OSX USB Audio driver). If so, continue with the next step.

  • Page 110: Further Troubleshooting Resources

    Further Troubleshooting Resources   If, after perusing the FAQ and Troubleshooting sections, you still haven't found a resolution to your issue, Apogee provides a wide range of resources to help you.   Apogee Website For any questions concerning product information, please visit our website: www.apogeedigital.com...

  • Page 111: Installing I/O Modules

      Rack mounting Symphony I/O Rack ears are included in the Accessories box for mounting Symphony I/O in a standard 19” equipment rack. 1. Orient one rack ear to line up the ear's three holes with three holes found on the side of the chassis immediately behind the front panel extrusion.

  • Page 112: Symphony I/O Screws

    In most cases, Symphony I/O ships with the first I/O Module installed. For the infrequent case where no I/O Modules are installed, we recommend having them installed by Authorized Symphony I/O Technicians. If you are brave enough to install them on your own, this section describes both how to install the first I/O Module as well as a second I/O Module.

  • Page 113: Directions

    Manipulating circuit boards under these conditions may result in permanent damage. a. Turn Symphony I/O off, but leave the AC cable connected b. Ground yourself by touching the front panel of Symphony I/O to discharge static electricity c. Unplug the AC cable from Symphony I/O d.
  • Page 114 3. To remove the cover, slide it straight back until the underside clips prevent further movement. Then grasp the cover's side panels and gently bow the cover until the bottom lip is free.   4. Remove the 2 screws holding the center support in place, and lift out the support.  ...
  • Page 115     6. Remove the 9 screws indicated below, and set them aside for later use.  ...
  • Page 116 7. Place the first I/O Module into the chassis by inserting the I/O Module rear panel into the Symphony I/O Card 1 opening, then gently dropping the front of the I/O Module into place. Line up the I/O Module's mounting holes with the 9 nuts on the bottom of the chassis.
  • Page 117     12. To install a second Module, insert the I/O Module rear panel into the Symphony I/O Card 2 opening, then gently dropping the front of the I/O Module into place. Line up the second I/O Module's mounting holes with the tops of the 9 stand-offs.
  • Page 118 13. Connect the provided ribbon cable between J2 on the Main board and J1 on the second I/O Module. Make sure that the lower Module ribbon cable is nested into the upper Module ribbon cable as shown below.   Do not tuck the Primary I/O ribbon cable underneath the second Module or it could become frayed.

  • Page 119: Auto Power

    Auto Power To configure Symphony I/O to power on as soon as AC power is present on the rear panel AC input, follow these steps. Auto Power is useful in circumstances where an external power switch is used to power on multiple devices, such as a rack of Symphony I/Os with a master power switch.

  • Page 120: Updating Symphony I/O

      To update firmware: 1. Connect the Symphony I/O USB port to your Mac using a standard USB 2.0 cable 2. Unzip the Firmware Updater package 3. Launch the Firmware Updater application by double-clicking on the Firmware Updater icon 4.

  • Page 121: Specifications

    Max output levels - ∞ to +24dBu Frequency response at 44.1 kHz: dc to 20kHz (+/- 0.05dB) Output impedance: 25 Ohm Outputs are balanced through Apogee's proprietary Perfect Symmetry Circuitry (PSC) Headphones: THD+N: -105dB @19dBu Dynamic Range: 119db A weighted...
  • Page 122   Packaging Sizes: Symphony I/O Chassis Box Inches: 22.875 L x 17.75 W x 9.25 D Centimeters: 58.1 L x 45.1 W x 23.5 D   I/O Module Box Inches: 13.75 L x 12.25 W x 3.25 D Centimeters: 34.9 L x 31.1 W x 8.3 D  ...

  • Page 123: Connector Pinouts

    Connector Pinouts   Analog IN Pinout Analog OUT Pinout AES IN/OUT Pinout...

  • Page 127: Symphony I/O Warranty Information And Legal Notices

    Symphony I/O Warranty Information and Legal Notices   Registration and Warranty Information Be sure to register your Symphony I/O, either by filling in the enclosed Registration Card or by completing the on-line registration form at our Web site: apogeedigital.com/ account.php If you do so, Apogee can contact you with any update information.

  • Page 128: Warnings

    If you have any questions with regard to the above, please contact Apogee. In the event your Symphony I/O needs to be upgraded or repaired, it is necessary to contact Apogee prior to shipping, and a Return Materials Authorization (RMA) number will be assigned.
  • Page 129 NOTE: The use of non-shielded cable with this equipment is prohibited.   CAUTION: Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the manufacturer responsible for compliance could void the userʼs authority to operate the equipment. Apogee Electronics Corp. 1715 Berkeley Street Santa Monica,CA 90404, USA   Betty Bennett, CEO.
  • Page 130 Apogee Electronics Corporation hereby declares that Symphony I/O, to which this declaration relates, is in material conformity with the VCCI Class A standard.   Declaration of Conformity – Australia Apogee Electronics Corporation hereby declares that the Symphony I/O is in material conformity with AN/NZS standard requirements.

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