Frequently Asked Questions

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Is the new Solus NX the replacement for the older Solus models that are now discontinued?

Yes.

What software do I use to configure the Solus NX?

Solus NX is configured via the award winning Composer CAD based design software.

Will Solus NX work in SymNet Designer software?

No.

Will the original Solus models be supported in Composer software?

No.

What can be controlled with the buttons on a W Series?

The button can be configured to adjust any function in a Symetrix DSP that is controllable. In addition, Symetrix DSPs can control the third-party devices included in the Toolbar of Symetrix ComposerTM software and other third-party devices via RS-232 (Radius and Edge), TCP or UDP. 

Buttons can be configured to be momentary, latching or as radio buttons. This allows them to do things like trigger presets, adjust volume levels, perform source selection, mute/unmute audio and change signal routing. There is a caveat regarding the radio buttons – radio buttons must be sequential. 

How many inputs and outputs are available on Solus NX?

Solus NX is available in 3 configurations, 4×4, 8×8, and 16×8.

Can I daisy-chain multiple Solus NX units together like the Radius and Edge?

No. Solus NX has a single Ethernet port unlike Radius and Edge, which feature dual Ethernet ports.

What can be controlled with the rotary encoder?

 The Rotary encoder can be configured to adjust any audio function in a Symetrix DSP that is controllable. The encoder can be pushed to move between up to eight function menus. 

Common functions that typically would be assigned to a menu include gain control, mute ON/Off, tone control, and source select (up to 32 sources). 

(Example 1) For a background music system with four zones: 

Menu 1: Zone 1 Volume 

Menu 2: Zone 2 Volume 

Menu 3: Zone 3 Volume 

Menu 4; Zone 4 Volume 

Menu 5: Zone 1 Source Selector 

Menu 6: Zone 2 Source Selector 

Menu 7: Zone 3 Source Selector 

Menu 8: Zone 4 Source Selector 

(Example 2) A personal monitor mix system 

Menu 1: Lead Guitar Volume 

Menu 2: Rhythm Guitar Volume 

Menu 3: Bass Volume 

Menu 4; Keyboard Volume 

Menu 5: Vocal 1 Volume 

Menu 6: Vocal 2 Volume 

Menu 7: Choir Volume 

Menu 8: Podium Volume 

(Example 3) House of Worship Control Master Control 

Menu 1: Projector A 

On/Off 

Menu 2: Projector B 

On/Off 

Menu 3: Projector A Source 

PC 1 

PC 2 

Camera 1 

Camera 2 

Blu-ray 

Menu 4: Projector B Source 

PC 1 

PC 2 

Camera 1 

Camera 2 

Blu-ray 

Menu 5: Lights 

Brightness 1-10 

Menu 6: Audio Mode 

Console/Automix 

Menu 7: Master Audio Volume 

Gain 1-10 

Does the Solus NX have Dante networking capabilities?

No. Solus NX has analog inputs and outputs only, and comes in 3 configurations, 4×4, 8×8, and 16×8.

Can the Solus NX be controlled by RS-232?

Not directly. However, Solus NX can still be controlled by UDP and TCP/IP over Ethernet. RS-232 control can be added by pairing the Solus NX with xControl.

Can buttons on the controller be used to select the function on the rotor encoder?

Yes, the encoder’s function can be changed either by pushing the encoder or by using the buttons. 

Does the Solus NX contain any local GPIO or is the xControl needed?

Yes, the Solus NX does have local GPIO so the xControl is not needed in most cases. All 3 Solus NX models have 2 analog control ports (2 pots or 4 switches) and 4 Logic Outputs built in.

How is a W Series remote added to a system design in Composer™?

When in the site view of Composer™, go to the toolbar and find the IP Remotes menu. Expand the IP Remotes menu and locate the desired controller type. Either double click the desired controller or drag it into the site view window. 

Does Solus NX have +48 V phantom power?

No. Phantom Power (per input): +20 VDC @ 20 mA maximum per input.

How are parameters and control functions assigned to a controller?

Configuration takes place in Composer™ software. Right-click directly on a parameter: When you right-click directly on a parameter, a pop-up menu appears with an option to “Set Up Remote Control”. This leads to the Setup Remote Control Dialog box where the desired remote-control device can be selected. 

Can Solus NX be powered over PoE?

No. Solus NX comes with an external 24 VAC adaptor and IEC cable.

What security is provided to prevent unauthorized adjustments?

Each individual control panel in a system can be easily locked out for temporary security purposes if so desired. When security is activated, a four-digit, pre-programmed PIN is used to unlock the controller. The panel automatically locks after a pre-programmed idle time. 

Can I directly connect to Solus NX or do I need a switch?

Yes, direct connection from your PC to Solus NX hardware is possible by simply using a straight-through CAT5 cable.

How are the displays configured?

The display labeling is configured in the unit’s properties page that appears in Composer™ when the control unit is clicked in the site view of Composer™. The displays can be configured to display text or symbols simply by changing the “display type” in the W Series properties window in Composer™. The font and font size can be configured along with horizontal and vertical alignment. 

Bar Graph display mode can be set to disabled, up, down or moving. Composer™ software includes a control simulator that allows the appearance of the display labeling to be seen before a control unit’s programming is pushed to a unit. Encoder display units can be in dB, percentage or a count with the ability to set display minimums and maximums. 

Are Symetrix ARCs supported by Solus NX?

Yes, all of the ARC models are supported, even the new ARC-3. The ARC-PSe can be used as well.

How are network settings configured?

Network configuration of WX controllers is done in the same manner as Symetrix DSP network settings are configured, using the unit properties dialog box. 

Does the Solus NX built in ARC port offer as much power as Radius or Edge?

Yes, the Solus NX ARC port features 24V, 500 mA output to power connected ARCs, just like Radius and Edge.

Can Parameter be Linked across Multiple Controllers?

Yes, linking allows multiple controls to remain linked regardless of how their values are changed. Not only can W Series remotes be linked with other W Series but also with ARC, ARC-WEB, Control Server and TP controllers. 

Can Solus NX be interfaced with telco systems?

No, although the THI-101 Telephone Headset Interface can be used as a simple solution.

Can Solus NX be used for directly interfacing with digital input and output sources?

No, Solus NX has only analog inputs and outputs.

Can I use SymVue with Solus NX?

Yes, Solus NX can access all of the features in Composer software available to Radius and Edge including SymVue and ARC-WEB.

Can I use ARC-WEB with Solus NX?

Yes, Solus NX can access all of the features in Composer software available to Radius and Edge including ARC-WEB and SymVue.

How much delay memory is available in Solus NX?

There is 174 mono seconds of total delay memory available.

What sample rate does the Solus NX operate at?

Audio conversion is 24-bit, 48 kHz with internal processing of 40-bit floating point, 48 kHz.

How much latency is there in Solus NX?

Latency (A/D/A): < 1.6 mS, input routed to output.

Does Solus NX have any more or less DSP processing power than the Radius or Edge DSP?

Solus NX has the same DSP processing power as the Radius and Edge, utilizing a 400 MHz SHARC processor.

Are Symetrix Products Microsoft Teams Certified?

Symetrix is a Microsoft Partner*. Symetrix products are Microsoft Teams compatible**.

* Microsoft Partner website

** Microsoft Teams Compatible: Provides the same functionality as certified products.

Which call managers will the Symetrix VoIP card work with?

The Symetrix VoIP card must be used with a SIP based proxy server.

Which PBX does the Symetrix VoIP card support?

Our products utilize SIP 2.0 to interconnect with VoIP servers. We found that while SIP is a standard, there are many variances in the way it is applied by VoIP providers. SIP 2.0 is a loose specification that allows the developers of SIP-based systems to make many decisions on features and functions. The consequence of this is that two SIP based systems can be completely SIP 2.0 compliant and completely incompatible.

We have gone to great lengths to optimize our solutions for market-leading providers. Symetrix’s VoIP Interface Card has been tested for interoperability with Cisco, Avaya, 3CX and Asterisk and we intend to continue to test interoperability with other systems.

Much of the setup and configuration of a VoIP system is out of Symetrix’s and the AV integrator’s control. This includes the configuration and components of the VoIP network. We will make every effort to support the configuration of our VoIP Interface Card but if there are issues with the VoIP Interface Card not functioning with systems for which we have not created a configuration tech note, we can provide guidance but troubleshooting will need to be done with the assistance of the enterprise IT department or telephony system provider and interoperability cannot be guaranteed. We are unable to assist with the configuration of VoIP PBX systems.

How many calls can be handled by a single VoIP card?

The Symetrix VoIP card has 2 lines per card. 4 call appearances per VoIP card (4 remote calls, 2 call appearances per line).

Which Codecs are supported by the Symetrix VoIP card?

G.722, G.711 (A-law and μ-Law), G.729 (including Annex B) and G.723.1. Note that G.729 Annex B is currently supported for received audio only, the full implementation of VAD for all codecs will be in a future release.

How can I determine the priority of the Codecs?

This is user configurable in the VoIP card’s web-based administration interface using a simple drag and drop method.

How many VoIP cards can be used in a Symetrix system?

Limited only by the hosting DSP hardware type and numbers used. A single Edge Frame can host up to 4 cards, while Radius AEC and Radius 12xEX can each host a single card.

Do I need a PoE switch for the Symetrix VoIP card?

No, the Symetrix VoIP card doesn’t require a PoE switch as it is powered from the DSP unit it is installed into. If a PoE switch is used, it will not damage the Symetrix VoIP card.

How do you define the extension number or subscriber number?

First the IT department needs to establish the extension number. Then it is entered in the VoIP card’s web-based administration interface.

Will the VoIP card work with DHCP and can it be assigned a static IP?

Yes, the VoIP card is set to DHCP by default. It can easily be assigned to a static IP if needed from Composer software.

Does the VoIP card support IPv6?

No, only IPv4 is supported at this time.

Can the VoIP card be set to auto-answer?

Yes. In addition a setting of 1-8 rings before auto-answer can be selected.

Where can you see the MAC address?

The MAC address can be found in Composer software and on the Web admin.

Is it correct to say the Symetrix VoIP card acts as an end-point?

Yes, the Symetrix VoIP card works the same as any other VoIP phone on the network.

Is each line considered a separate instance with its own IP and extension?

The Symetrix VoIP card has 2 lines, with 2 call appearances per line. Each line gets its own extension. Only 1 IP address is assigned per card.

Can each line be set to use different Codecs?

The Codec settings are assigned for each card, so the same settings apply to both lines on a card.

What is DSP and how does to apply to Composer-based hardware?

Advanced Digital Signal Processing is at the core of our Composer-based hardware. Our solutions simply design and deliver superb fidelity, adding value for designers, integrators, and end users.

Can the lines be assigned different Qos (Quality of Service) levels?

The same settings apply to both lines per card. 802.1Q User Priority can be set from 0-7, as well as DSCP settings for Audio RTP and Call Control.

Can different VLANS be used on each line?

VLANS can be used but only one VLAN can be used per card, which applies to both lines because there is only 1 IP per card.

How do you dial out from the Symetrix VoIP card?

Dialing can be done from Composer software, as well as many other methods. Third party devices such as AMX or Crestron can be used for dialing via Ethernet (UDP and TCP-IP) or RS-232.  SymVue software can also be used for dialing.

Can the 2 lines on a VoIP card be bridged together for a conference? Can lines from multiple cards be bridged together for a conference?

Yes, all lines connected to the system via multiple Symetrix VoIP cards can be combined. Each line must first be registered, but the combining of the lines is done within Composer software with mixing and routing.

Will the CISCO settings cause any confusion with the VoIP cards?

CISCO or other third party device manufacturers have no control of the Symetrix VoIP cards. Therefore the settings will have no bearing on Symetrix VoIP cards performance.

What tail length does the AEC algorithm support in Composer v5.1 and later?

300 ms.

How many bands does the Flex EQ module support in Composer v5.1 and later?

32 bands.

How many channels can Vias support in Composer v5.1 and later?

64 Channels.

How do I download the ARC-WEB dialer to my phone or mobile device?

No download is necessary.  ARC-WEB Dialer is a web app that is hosted on the Symetrix hardware.  After enabling and programming the ARC-WEB Dialer in SymNet Composer 4.0+ software, simply type in the hardware’s IP address into your web browser.

Does ARC-WEB Dialer work on a MAC or an iPhone?

ARC-WEB is supported on Mac OS X browsers and iOS devices.  It is also supported on Windows and Android browsers.  The supported platforms include: iOS version 6.0+, Android version 4.1+, Internet Explorer version 9.0+, Chrome version 29+, Safari version 6+: Mac OS X 10.7 or later, and Firefox version 24+

Is ARC-WEB Dialer available for the 2 Line VoIP Interface Card and/or the 2 Line Analog Telephone Interface Card?

ARC-WEB Dialer may be enabled/disabled for each telephony interface.

Powerful standalone open architecture 16x8 DSP - Solus 16

If I have more than one phone card can I still use the ARC-WEB Dialer?

For each phone interface in a site file, an entry will automatically appear in the RS-485 section of the Remote Control Manager under the four ARC-WEB instances. Any ARC-WEB Dialers will be labeled with DSP name, IP address and card slot the interface is plugged into.  A unique name can also be given to each ARC-WEB Dialer.

If I have multiple DSP's with multiple phone cards in the same site file, can I still use the ARC-WEB Dialer?

For each phone interface in a site file, an entry will automatically appear in the RS-485 section of the Remote Control Manager under the four ARC-WEB instances. Any ARC-WEB Dialers will be labeled with DSP name, IP address and card slot the interface is plugged into.  A unique name can also be given to each ARC-WEB Dialer.

Can I program/change and recall Speed Dial names and numbers from the ARC-WEB Dialer?

Speed dial names and numbers can be programed and/or changed using the ARC-WEB Dialer.  Simply click on the name and number you want to program and/or change. To trigger or dial the Speed Dial, select the Speed Dial number (1-20) under the line you want to dial out on. Any programming and/or change made to the Speed Dial name and number will also be changed in the VoIP or ATI module inside SymNet composer.

Can I resize the ARC-WEB Dialer to fit my screen resolution?

ARC-WEB and ARC-WEB Dialer will adjust to the device’s screen size and present a small screen (phone) or large screen (tablet / desktop) interface as appropriate. The minimum display size supported is 240×320 (640×960 Retina) pixels. It is recommended to save the ARC-WEB or ARC-WEB Dialer as a “web app” if using a smaller display device, particularly on those devices running iOS 8, as the bottom navigation buttons may be obscured by the browser’s command bar.

I am using the ARC-WEB Dialer but I have no volume or mute controls?

Each volume and mute control needs to be individually enabled.  In the “Edit ARC-WEB Dialer” window each menu item is listed.  Select the desired menu item and then click the “Edit” button.  This will open an edit window for that menu item.  Check the enable box and then click “Save Menu”.  For volume controls, you can also set the Low Limit, High Limit, and Resolution.

How do I lock and unlock an ARC-2e?

To unlock the ARC-2e, hold the “Menu” button down for 3 seconds, then while continuing to hold “Menu”, push the “Down” button. If the ARC-2e needs to be re-locked to prevent tampering, simply do the same procedure but use the “Up” button.

Can I have separate volume and mute controls for each Appearance on each line of the VoIP card with the ARC-WEB Dialer?

Each ARC-WEB Dialer instance controls two lines, two assignable volumes and mutes per line, 20 speed dial locations shared between lines, and 8 presets shared between lines.

If I use multiple ARC-WEB Dialers can I password protect each one separately?

Each ARC-WEB Dialer instance may be protected with a unique username/password.

Can the xIn 4, xIO 4x4 and xOut 4 be used as standalone DSP devices?

No- The xIn4, xIO 4×4 and xOut 4 are part of a series of I/O expansion products for the Symetrix DSP products (Edge and Radius) using Dante network audio.

Can I daisy-chain multiple xIn 4, xIO 4x4 and xOut 4 together?

No- The xIn 4, xIO 4×4 and xOut 4 have a single Dante port and Power over Ethernet (PoE) cannot be daisy-chained. They can be directly connected to the main DSP (via a PoE injector), but not to each other.

Does the xIn 4, xIO 4x4 and xOut 4 have redundant capabilities?

No- The xIn 4, xIO 4×4 and xOut 4 are based upon Audinate’s Ultimo Dante chip which does not have a redundant mode. They should be connected to the primary Dante network. Other standard IT practices of network redundancy can be employed instead.

Are the xIn 4 and xIO 4x4 capable of providing Phantom Power?

Yes- The xIn 4 and xIO 4×4 have (4) balanced analog audio inputs, with individually software-controllable pre-amp gains (reference levels of -50 dBu, -40 dBu, -20 dBu, -10 dBV and +4 dBu), phantom power (+48 VDC ), and mute.

How do I configure the xIn 4, xIO 4x4 and xOut 4?

The xIn 4, xIO 4×4 and xOut 4 are configured via the award winning SymNet Composer software. Once transmit and receive flows are created within the software the xIO 4×4, xIn 4 and xOut 4 will need to be located through a Radius or Edge DSP, then the configuration pushed to the hardware.

Does the xIn 4, xIO 4x4 and xOut 4 have a rack mount option?

Yes- The Rack Mount Kits consists of a rack tray and four mounting screws. With this kit, one or two units can be mounted side-by-side in a single rack space. (Mounting solutions sold separately).

Is there and under the table or surface mount option for the xIn 4, xIO 4x4 and xOut 4?

Yes- Under Table/Surface Mount Kits consists of a U-shaped bracket and two mounting screws. With this kit, a single unit can be secured under a table or to another flat surface as required. (Mounting solutions sold separately).

Can I send more than 4 channels of Dante networked audio to and from the xIn 4, xIO 4x4 and xOut 4?

No- The xIn 4, xIO 4×4 and xOut 4 Dante Interface I/O interface is based upon the Audinate Ultimo chip that supports 4×4 channels of Dante networked audio.

How do I power up the xIn 4, xIO 4x4 and xOut 4?

The xIn 4, xIO 4×4 and xOut 4 are powered over Ethernet (PoE) by an IEEE 802.3af Class 0 standard compliant switch or the included injector. No other external power supply is needed or used.

Do the xIn 4, xIO 4x4 and xOut 4 need to be connected to a Gigabit network?

No- The xIn 4, xIO 4×4 and xOut 4 have a 100 Base-T Ethernet port that provides 8 (4×4) channels of Dante network audio, Ethernet communications, and power.  Symetrix suggests connecting to a gigabit switch. Especially if multiple devices with Dante audio are connecting to a common switch.

Can I change the display text font on the ARC-3?

Yes, in the Edit ARC-3 windows you can change the “ARC Description”. You can also modify the Font, size and position of the text to be displayed. In addition, a background image can be imported (239×24 pixel monochrome bitmaps).

Can I lock or add security to the ARC-3?

Yes, a 4 digit security PIN can be enabled. This PIN will need to be used anytime the ARC-3 is activated or when the ARC-3 comes out of sleep mode.

How do I assign an address to the ARC-3?

In the ARC-3 edit window, assign the ARC-3 address in the RS-485 field located under the ARC Description.

Can I enable/disable Sleep Mode in the ARC-3?

Yes, in the ARC-3 Edit window you can choose to disable Sleep Mode by unchecking the box (Enable Sleep Mode). This box is checked by default. You can also adjust the delay time between 1-600 seconds of inactivity. In addition, you also have the option to keep LEDs on or turn LEDs off during Sleep Mode (default setting turns LED’s off).

Does the ARC-3 use the same wire pinouts as the ARC-2e?

Yes, the ARC-3 uses the same wire pinouts as all the ARC remote devices. The pinouts can be found in the help files.

Can I use the ARC-3 with Designer, Jupiter, or the Zone Mix 761?

No, the ARC-3 is currently only compatible with Composer 4.1 and above.

Can the ARC-3 display different languages?

The ARC-3 can display any character in any language that can be generated on a Windows computer.

Can I adjust the brightness of the ARC-3's LED's?

Yes, in the ARC-3 edit window you can adjust the brightness of both the idle and active states. You can also select or de-select “auto-adjust brightness Settings for ambient light” and “brighten button LEDs when buttons pressed”.

How do I enable dynamic menus within the ARC-3?

Dynamic Menu Enable – Check the box to enable an ARC or individual menus with controller numbers. Example: In a room-combine scenario, choose to display a separate set of menus when the room is combined and another when it is uncombined.

How do I change the address on the ARC-3?

Press both the left and right buttons, and then press and hold the top + portion of the slider. This puts the ARC-3 into system mode. Here an address from 1-99 can be selected.

How many inputs and outputs are available on Prism?

The Prism will be available in 4 sizes, 4×4, 8×8, 12×12, or 16×16. Prism is Dante capable, so Symetrix and 3rd party Dante expansion units can be added.

Can the Prism be controlled by RS-232?

Not directly. Due to its small form factor, there wasn’t room for an RS-232 connection on the back of Prism. However, Prism can still be controlled by UDP and TCP/IP over Ethernet. RS-232 control can be added by pairing the Prism with xControl.

How is Prism 4x4 powered?

A PoE+ injector ships with the Prism 4×4, or a PoE+ switch can be used. Prism 8×8, 12×12, and 16×16 will use an external power supply with threaded barrel connector, which will be included.

Does Prism contain any local GPIO or is the xControl needed?

Yes, the Prism does have local GPIO so the xControl is not needed in most cases. The Prism 4×4 has 2 analog control ports (2 pots or 4 switches) and 4 Logic Outputs built in. Prism 8×8, 12×12, and 16×16 have 4 analog control ports (4 pots or 8 switches) and 8 Logic Outputs built in.

Can I direct connect to Prism or do I need a switch?

Yes, direct connection from your PC to Prism hardware is possible with each Prism model with a straight-through CAT-5 cable.  A PoE+ injector is required for Prism 4×4.

Are Symetrix ARCs supported by Prism?

Yes, all of the ARC models are supported by Prism, even the new ARC-3. Of course the ARC-PSe can be used as well.

Does Prisms built in ARC port offer as much power as Radius Edge?

Yes, Prism’s ARC port features 24V, 500 mA output to power connected ARCs, just like Radius and Edge.

Can Prism be daisy-chained with other units?

No, Prism has a single Ethernet port and a single Dante port, so a switch will be required to connect multiple units. Prism will not offer daisy chaining of Ethernet or Dante connections. Dante Redundancy is not an option with Prism.

Can Prism be interfaced with telco systems?

No, although they may be used in conjunction with other products performing this task.

Can Prism be used for directly interfacing with digital input and output sources?

No, although they may be used in conjunction with other products performing this task.

Can Prism be used for acoustic echo cancellation processing?

No, although they may be used in conjunction with other products performing this task.

Will SymVue work with Prism?

Yes, Prism can access all of the features in Composer software available to Radius and Edge including SymVue and ARC-WEB.

Does Prism have any more or less DSP processing power than the Radius or Edge DSP?

Prism can provide the same DSP processing as the Radius and Edge, utilizing a 400 MHz SHARC processor.

Are the microphone preamps and AD/DA converters as good as Radius and Edge?

Yes, Prism uses the same microphone preamps and AD/DA converters as Radius Edge.

Can the Prism 4x4 be rack mounted or surface mounted?

Yes for both! The optional rack mount kit consists of a rack tray and two mounting screws. With this kit, one can rack mount one or two half rack products side-by-side in a single rack space. Alternately, the under table mounting kit consists of a U-shaped bracket and two mounting screws. With this kit, one can secure a single product under a table or to some other flat surface as necessary.

Is Prism’s phantom power 48V?

Yes, Prism’s phantom power is a full 48 VDC @ 10 mA maximum per input.

How much latency is there in Prism?

Analog inputs latency: 0.28 mS, Analog outputs latency: 0.60 mS, Total latency (A/D/A): 0.88 mS, inputs routed to outputs.

How much delay memory is available in Prism?

There is 174 mono seconds of delay memory total available in Prism.

What sample rate does the Prism operate at?

Audio conversion is 24-bit, 48 kHz with internal processing of 40-bit floating point, 48 kHz.

How many Dante channels does Prism support?

Prism supports 64×64 Dante channels just like Edge and Radius.

Where can I find a "white paper" or technical overview of the SymNet Express and SymLink system?

The SymNet Technical Overview document can be found below.

SymNet Technical Overview

Calibration fails on the 371 SPL Computer.

Calibration can fail if the Sense Input Gain is set too low (–45 dB) or too high (+20 dB). In the LCD setup menus, adjust Sense Input Gain for a proper gain setting. Check Sense for the current sense input level. The setting should be between -45 dB and +20 dB. You can also check the SENSE INPUT by listening with headphones connected to AMBIENT SENSE MONITOR on the front panel to hear what the 371 is reading.

Are all inputs on the 4 Channel Analog Input Card mic or line switchable?

Yes, all analog inputs are mic or line switchable.

How many ARCs can I daisy-chain together?

The number of ARCs that can be daisy chained together will vary depending on the type of ARCs used and the cable lengths.  Download Link: ARC Power Calculator.

Where can I find a Data Sheet for the 6100 Broadcast Audio Delay?

Where can I find a User's Guide for the (original, not "m") 421 AGC-Leveler?

What is SymVue?

SymVue is a custom, stand-alone user control application for Composer-based DSPs. A SymVue panel is created from a Designer control screen and runs on any Windows compatible PC. SymVue connects to hardware via the hardware’s IP address and up to eight (software) instances of SymVue can run on each PC.

How do I disable the phantom power from the mic inputs on the 450 Dual Zone Priority Mixer?

To disable phantom power from microphone input #1:

1. Disconnect power from the 450.
2. Remove the 0-ohm jumper R48 in the extreme left rear corner of the 450.
3. To disable phantom power from microphone input #2:

Disconnect power from the 450.
Remove the 0-ohm jumper R172 in the left center area of the 450 circuit board.

What kind of DSP is used in SymNet 8x8, 8 In, 8 Out and DigIO?

SymNet 8×8, 8in, 8out and DigIO units use Analog Devices SHARC ADSP-21065L DSPs running at approx. 66MHz. The 8×8 has four, and the 8in, 8out and DigIO each contain two DSPs. The four DSPs in the 8×8 can deliver a theoretical maximum combined total of 786 MFLOPS (Mega Floating Point Operations Per Second).

Where do I find the latest firmware for my DSP?

The latest firmware is always bundled with the latest software.  There is no need to manage the firmware independently.

Is the xControl programmed in the Remote Control Manager in SymNet Composer?

No, while the Control I/O was programmed in the Controller Manager in SymNet Designer, the same cannot be said about the xControl.  The xControl is added to the Site View of Composer just like a SymNet DSP. Once in the site file, the xControl is programmed to control parameters in the same way all control is programmed:

Right Click -> Set Up Remote Control-> Remote Analog Input –‘xControl’

What is the default baud rate for 3rd party controller serial connection?

38400.

Is there a template available to help me label the buttons on my Modular ARC?

Below is a PDF form which can be downloaded to your computer and used to produce labels for your Modular ARC (SW4, SWK, MIC, XLR and EX4 panels). Download the file linked below to your computer. Open the file with Adobe Acrobat. If you do not have Acrobat on your computer, it is freely available from Adobe. Once you have opened the document, you may type directly into the button label fields. The label text will auto-size from one large character to no more than three lines of eight characters each. Once you have typed up the labels you require, you may save your work for future use or print to the printer and paper of your choice..

SW4 Label Template

How many channels of CobraNet audio will the CobraLink transmit and receive?

32×32.

Can the xIn 12 input setting be controlled from ARC remotes, SymVue, or 3rd party control systems?

No, the input settings can only be adjusted when using SymNet Composer.

Can CobraNet share a Switched Ethernet network with other traffic?

Yes, depending on the CobraNet audio bandwidth requirements.  But, best practice would dictate to use two separate networks.

Can I upgrade my 6000/6100 delay time to 40 seconds?

Yes.  Have the unit serial number handy and contact support@symetrix.co or call +1 425 778 7728.

Where can I find a Data Sheet for the 522 Compressor / Limiter / Expander?

Can different versions of SymNet Designer be installed on my PC simultaneously?

Yes.  It is recommend that SymNet programmers have the last few major software releases installed.

Where can I find Schematics for the NB24 NuBus Computer I/O Card?

How long does it take to have a product factory serviced?

Once received, the service process generally takes 2-3 days.

What is the output power rating of the 420 Stereo Power Amplifier?

Maximum Output (stereo/2-channel) 20 watts RMS, per channel, into a 4 or 8 Ohm load. Maximum Output (mono bridged) 40 watts RMS into an 8 Ohm load.

How do I determine the power-on state of the system?

Hardware menu > Triggers and Power On Default.

Where can I find a Flow Chart for the 305 Distribution Amplifier (1x4)?

How do I set up Steinberg's Cubase VST to work with the PCI24 PCI Computer I/O Card?

Lucid Driver 1.06 with 3.X, 1.09 with 4.0
1. Disk cache set to lowest setting (i.e. 96k)
2. Virtual memory turned off.
3. The card should not be selected from the Sound Control Panel.
4. Place the PCI24 ASIO extension in the Extensions folder, which is in the System Folder.
5. Place the ASIO Lucid PCI24 in the ASIO Drivers folder, which is in your Cubase VST folder.
6. Shutdown and reboot the Mac.

Cubase Audio Setup Options:
1. Number of Channels set to 4 (to start).
2. Memory Per Channel set to 192kb.
3. Disk Block Buffer Size set to 64kb.
4. Select the Lucid PCI24 as the ASIO device.

SPDIF and AES are two channel formats, so does each of the two outputs on the 4 Channel Digital Output Card have more than one channel?

Yes, each channel on the card sends two channels of audio.  They are labeled 1 / 2 and 3 / 4.

How do I calibrate the 572 SPL Computer?

572 Getting Started Control Settings
BYPASS OUT
PAGE MIC GAIN 12 O’CLOCK
SENSE GAIN IN if your installation is in a normal noise level area, such as a store.
OUT if your installation is in a high noise level area such as a factory.
SAMPLE INTERVAL 9 O’CLOCK
PAGE OVER MUSIC 9 O’CLOCK
RATIO 12 O’CLOCK
MIN 12 O’CLOCK
MAX 12 O’CLOCK

OPTIONS Switches All Down

STEPS:

1. Complete all input and output connections.
2. Provide constant music or paging signal to the PAGE or MUSIC Line Inputs, or to the PAGE MIC input during the entire calibration procedure.
3. Press the CALIBRATE button in and then release it.
4. The MIN LED will flash, and the system audio will be at the minimum level for approximately 10 seconds.
5. The MAX LED will flash, and the system audio will be at the maximum level for approximately 10 seconds.
6. The 572 is now calibrated (unless the MUSIC/PAGE ERROR LED flashes, see previous FAQ for help if this happens).

Where can I find a Data Sheet for the GENx192 Ultra Low Jitter Studio Master Clock?

Where can I find a User's Guide for the AESx4 AES Distribution Amplifier, CLKx6 Word Clock Distribution Amplifier, GENx6-96 Word/Super Clock Generator or GENx6 Word/Super Clock Generator?

Why slave 372 SPL Computer's together?

The main reason to synchronize the sense events between units is to eliminate acoustic bleed-over between adjacent zones, and/or to eliminate problematic speaker line crosstalk while the sample is being taken.

What is ARC Audio?

The ARC Audio port provides a means to either break-in or break-out a single balanced analog audio line from an ARCs CAT5 cable.  Note, not all ARCs support ARC Audio.

How much do Jupiter apps cost?

Jupiter apps are free.

What do I do if I'm experiencing an intermittent input on the 460 Presentation Audio Mixer?

Check inward downward expander (gate). The threshold setting may be too high.

Can I talk to Composer-based DSPs using HyperTerminal?

If the unit has RS-232 control, yes.  HyperTerminal can be used to simulate an external controller.

Default settings:

Baud: 38400

Data bits: 8

Parity: None

Stop bits: 1

Flow control: None

How do I get audio between units using SymLink?

Use the SymLink Bus Sends/Returns, which can be found in the ToolKit at the left side of the SymNet Designer screen. SymLink Bus Sends/Returns are also used to bus Control Signals.

Why is the audio output of my 372 SPL Computer being interrupted?

Because the 372 SPL Computer uses the speakers of a sound system as sensing microphones, the sound?system is briefly disabled (~250 milliseconds) every time a reading is taken.

Where can I find Schematics for the 305 Distribution Amplifier (1x4)?

How does the averaging time work on the 372 SPL Computer?

The 372 SPL Computer can be set to 1, 2, 4, or 8 and average together the number of samples to make a gain changes. After a calibration the sample buffer is cleared and set to the same relative level taken during the calibration. In other words if the 372 is set to 4 samples and calibrated at -30dB relative and during the first sample it reads -20dB it would average -20dB, -30dB, -30dB and -30dB to determine the gain change.

Where can I find a Data Sheet for the DA9624 24-bit Stereo 96 kHz D/A Converter?

Where can I find Schematics for the 301 Low Distortion Compressor / Limiter?

Is there a recommended microphone for use with the 371 SPL Computer?

For most applications, an inexpensive low-impedance, omnidirectional microphone, such as a lavaliere microphone works adequately. Some installers have used boundary microphones with good success (they’re unobtrusive). Other installers have mounted microphone cartridges (available from Mouser Electronics in the U.S.) inside electrical boxes equipped with a single-holed cover. In smaller rooms or acoustically live spaces, a directional microphone is a good choice, because you can use its position to favor the ambient sound and minimize pickup from the sound system loudspeakers. If the sense mic is positioned a relatively long distance from the ambient noise source(s), a directional microphone may improve system performance.

The announcer's voice sounds "hollow" when we use the TI-101 Telephone Interface.

Under normal conditions you will notice leakage of the host audio into the caller audio. This is the nature of analog hybrids. When properly adjusted, the caller’s audio level should be 3 to 6dB higher than the host audio leakage. Since this leakage is out of phase with the source audio a change in tonal quality is normal.

My speakers are rated for 50 watts, why did the 420 Stereo Power Amplifier damage them?

An under powered speaker can be just as damaged as an over powered speaker. When an amplifier is driven into clipping or square wave it is essentially asking the speaker cone to go full out (+) then full in (-) in zero time.

What is the stereo separation on the 450 Dual Zone Priority Mixer?

Greater than -60 dB when measured at 1000 Hz.

Greater than -35 dB when measured with a 18 kHz tone.

Does the 4 Channel Digital Input Card have sample rate conversion?

Yes, it will accept any rate from 12 kHz to 96 khz and covert it to 48 khz.

Where can I find a Data Sheet for my AirTools 2m?

How is my programming transferred to and from hardware via “upload” and “download” in Designer?

“Upload” pulls the program from hardware to the computer.  “Download” pushes the program from the computer to the hardware.

What software is used to configure SymNet Solus?

All SymNet Solus hardware is configured using SymNet Designer.

Where can I find a User's Guide for the SSG192 High Definition Studio Sync Generator?

Does the ADA8824 (ADAT) 24-bit Eight Channel A/D-D/A Converter dither?

No, there is no dithering on either the AES3, S/PDIF or ADAT digital outputs. It is recommended that dithering be performed (by external equipment) subsequent to bit depth reduction. In practice, truncating to 20-bits produces very low levels (<114dBFS) of truncation distortion, which is beyond the SNR of the converters, and can often be performed without audibility. Truncation to 16-bits can product audible distortion, and is not recommended.

Will SymNet SymLink and Express hardware work with AMX or Crestron control systems?

Yes. There is a dedicated RS-232 port on the rear panel of all 8×8, 8in, 8out, DigIO and CobraLink units for this purpose. This port can be used simultaneously with the host computer connected to the front panel RS-232 port, and the rear panel RS-485 port. The Express units have a dual-purpose rear panel port. The control protocol documentation is available for download from Documentation link in the Support section of this website. The protocol can also be found in the online Help section of the SymNet Designer application.

Where can I find a Flow Chart for the 307 Dual Isolation Transformer?

How do I reset the 6000 Broadcast Audio Delay or 6100 Broadcast Audio Delay to factory default settings?

Hold down the previous, next, and home buttons in while powering up the unit.

Can Jupiter units be linked together?

Jupiter is stand-alone, there is no digital audio bus.  Though multiple Jupiter units can exist on the same Ethernet network and be controlled from the same computer.

Where can I find a Data Sheet for the 322 DSP Engine?

What is the pinout for the PS-3 power supply?

There are two separate AC supplies coming out of the PS-3: 8.5 VAC @ 1A and 34.5 VAC CT @ 250mA. Pinout is as follows: 8.5 VAC on pins 6 and 1, 17 VAC on pins 7 and 3, center tap @ pins 4 and 5 are connected to earth ground. This is when viewed at the end of the PS-3 7-pin DIN plug.

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What are some DigIO 12x12 DSP applications?

Home Theater and Live Sound Processor
The DigIO allows up to twelve (12) digital sources to interface with a SymNet system. DigIO has onboard DSP and can act as a stand alone device as well as digital I/O expansion for a larger system. It can be used in home theater installations for speaker processing and to interface with digital mixing consoles in live sound for speaker processing or outboard EQ, dynamics and mixing/routing.

Additionally, DigIO offers an Ethernet interface if it is the master (first) device in a Ring of SymNet hardware. To simplify integration it features sample rate conversion on each input pair so digital equipment can be connected without syncing their digital clocks. And it can act as the master sync generator for a digital system via it’s Word Clock output operating at 48 kHz. If DigIO is the system clock master, sample rate conversion can be bypassed.

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HomerLink BreakOut Snake/Format Converter
HomerLink BreakOut units can be connected back-to-back to provide a bi-directional eight (8) channel (8 sends and 8 returns) digital snake up to 100 meters in length. HomerLink BreakOut hardware can also be used as format conversion between AES/EBU and TOSLINK digital formats. The Symetrix 810HLXO HomerLink Crossover Adapter is required. Each CAT5 cable provides four (4) channels (4 sends and 4 returns) of digital routing.

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What cables are required to connect to ARCs?

A single standard straight-through CAT-5/6 cable will provide power and data to an ARC from the host DSP.  The daisy-chain to subsequent ARCs also uses CAT-5/6.

Legacy DSPs that pre-date the ARC Port (RJ-45) communicate to ARCs with a twisted-pair (A, B, Ground) for RS-485 data.  In this scenario a local external transformer provides up to 24VDC to the ARC.

How do I set the IP address of a SymNet Express unit?

Establish serial communication.

Edit menu > Site Ethernet Preferences.

Click on the Ring you wish to configure.

Click Edit Unit Settings.

Enable IP control, then enter the appropriate IP information and click Write Settings to Unit.  Or, Read Settings from Unit.  This dialog syncs the IP information between software and hardware.

 

What is the max output of the 4 Channel Analog Output Card?

The max output is 24dBu.

What is video blackburst?

Blackburst is an analog video signal that contains sync information (frame rate) but no picture information. It serves the same function as Word Clock, but for video devices. It serves as a timing reference for VTRs and non-linear editors so that they can achieve frame-accurate locks during edits and transfers.

Can Dante Controller be used to adjust the mic pre or level settings of the xIn 12?

No, Dante Controller is not able to adjust any audio related settings in a xIn 12.

What are the most common external control commands for 3rd party controllers?

CS – Controller set.  Generally use for buttons.

CC – Controller change.  Generally use for faders.

LP – Load preset.

Examples:

CS <controller number><controller position><cr>

CC <controller number><1 for increment or 0 for decrement><amount><cr>

LP 1

Can I purchase a replacement power supply for my 6000/6100 factory direct?

Yes.  Have the unit serial number handy and contact support@symetrix.co or call +1 425 778 7728.

How many SymNet units can I connect together with SymLink?

There can be a maximum of 16 SymNet hardware units in a SymLink ring. This includes the 8×8 DSP, 8in DSP, 8out DSP, CobraLink, BreakIn12, Breakout12, and DigIO 12×12 DSP.

Is CobraNet TCP/IP routable?

No.  CobraNet is delivered via a 100Mbit Fast Ethernet switched network.

What are the ADAT sync connecters for on the ADA8824 (ADAT) 24-bit Eight Channel A/D-D/A Converter?

These connectors allow sending and receiving ADAT-specific information between daisy-chained ADAT machines or other hardware capable of sending or receiving ADAT Sync. The ADAT sync cable carries machine control, Word Clock, and timecode signals. These connectors, or the MIDI connectors, may be used for controlling the 8824. The only signal in the ADAT sync connection that matters to the 8824 is the machine control signal.

Note: If you are using the 8824 with the Alesis PCR card, the 8824 must be the first device connected after the PCR card. Doing so ensures that the 8824 can always receive commands (ADAT machines do not always pass ADAT Sync information through themselves.)

Will the 2 Line Analog Telephone Interface Card work with a VOIP telephone system?

No, the 2 Line Analog Telephone Interface card works only with a POTS line.

Where can I find a Flow Chart for the 571 SPL Computer?

Why does my 6000/6100 have audible artifacts while building delay?

Change or adjust the delay algorithm and/or delay ratio.  Find the algorithm and delay ratio that is the most appropriate for the program material.  For more information reference the unit’s User’s Guide.

Where can I find a Data Sheet for the 303 Interface Amplifier (Bi-directional) or 305 Distribution Amplifier (1x4)?

Why do the outputs of the 460 Presentation Audio Mixer sometimes mute between program changes?

It may be that in the case of the transitions that don’t mute, certain parameters of the presets are not far apart and in the case of the ones that do mute there are some fairly diverse settings between the two presets. The muting is by design with the intention of avoiding nasty pops or clicks that might otherwise result.

Where do I set the analog I/O levels of the ADA8824 (ADAT) 24-bit Eight Channel A/D-D/A Converter to match my setup?

This can be accomplished using the provided 8824 Configuration application via MIDI System Exclusive messages.

The analog I/O level sliders of the 8824Config app provide gain control in 1dB increments from -96dB to +31dB for each of the 8 analog inputs or outputs. With the input gain set to -8dB, a +4dBu input translates to approximately 20dbFS (i.e. 20dB digital headroom). With the input gain set to +4dB, a -10dBV input translates to approximately -20dbFS (again, 20dB of digital headroom). Similarly, with the output gain set to +1dB, a -20dBFS input translates to approximately +4dBu into 600 ohms. With the output gain set to -11dB, a -20dBFS input translates to approximately -10dBV. In both of these cases, the actual headroom before clipping depends on the inputs of the mixer, power amplifier, etc, that the 8824 is driving.

Does the 4 Channel Digital Input Card have an impedance matching transformer?

Yes, it matches 110 Ohm for AES and 75 Ohm for SPDIF respectively.

The 371 SPL Computer's output is always too loud.

Try re-calibrating making sure that music/page is playing continuously during the calibration process at its normal or normal to high level. Check levels in Set MIN Limit. Check if the level is set too high in the Gain:Sense Ratio. Check in calibration if the maximum limit in Adjust to Maximum is set too high.

Is SymLink compatible with CobraNet?

Not directly. The similarity between SymLink and CobraNet is that they both use CAT5 cable and handle 64 channels of audio. In all other ways they are dissimilar and incompatible. However, by adding a SymNet CobraLink hardware module to a SymNet ring you can send to CobraNet and receive from CobraNet up to 32 channels of audio in each direction.

What is Superclock?

Superclock is a format used exclusively by Digidesign in their ProTools series of software and hardware. It is a clock reference that is 256 times the sampling rate. In theory this makes the clock more accurate because there are so many more pulses in the data stream. When interfacing with a ProTools system, make sure the output of the clock generator is set to Superclock. When incorporating regular Word Clock devices along with a ProTools system, it is necessary to support both formats simultaneously. The Lucid GENx6 will only do one at a time, but can be locked together with another GENx6. The GENx6-96 and SSG192 can support both formats simultaneously.

Where can I find a Flow Chart for the Deuce 722?

The Flow Chart for the Deuce 722 can be found below. There are separate versions detailing the 722’s Dual Mono and Stereo modes. These documents can be navigated like a web site by clicking on various points in the signal chain to view a particular part of the signal chain as represented in the Deuce 722 software.

722 Dual Mono Flow Chart

722 Stereo Flow Chart

Where can I find Schematics for the 450 Dual Zone Priority Mixer?

How do I convert the stereo outputs to mono on the 450 Dual Zone Priority Mixer?

Disconnect power from the 450.
Solder a insulated wire jumper to the rear half of JP8. Be careful not to bridge the gap between the front and rear portion of JP8.
Solder the other end of the wire jumper to the rear half of JP9. Be careful not to bridge the gap between the front and rear portion of JP9.

Where can I find a User's Guide for the 305 Distribution Amplifier (1x4)?

Where can I find a Flow Chart for the 552E Dual Five Band Parametric EQ?

How do I hook up multiple 304s if I need more than 4 headphone channels?

Simply use the “thru” jacks to feed to the additional 304(s). This connecter is also convenient to patch headphones into an existing audio chain, for example: the signal going to a power amplifier could be routed to the input of the 304, the 304’s “thru” output signal would go to the amplifier, thus the audio feeds both the amplifier and the headphones.

How do I control SymNet Designer's Speaker Management modules with SmaartLive?

Depending upon the version of SmaartLive you are currently using, the necessary support files may or may not be already installed on your hard drive. The required files are included with the SymNet Designer 7.x installer, or you may download them separately below.

SymNet Smaart Plug In

Why is my 420 Stereo Power Amplifier blowing fuses?

Are the speaker connections shorted? Disconnect speakers, disconnect inputs, replace fuse, turn unit on. If the fuse blows immediately, this usually indicates a power supply fault or possibly shorted output transistor(s).

Where can I find a User's Guide for the AD9624 24-bit Stereo 96 kHz A/D Converter or DA9624 24-bit Stereo 96 kHz D/A Converter?

Can the GENx6 / GENx6-96 output Word Clock and Superclock simultaneously?

The GENx6 can only be set to output one or the other on all of its outputs. However, the outputs on the GENx6-96 can be switched individually to output one or the other.

Is it possible to get more than three levels of priority paging on the Zone Mix 760?

Absolutely!
How-to: More than three levels of paging with the Zone Mix 760
Within the offices of Symetrix, we often joke that our all-encompassing banner should actually read ‘Over-engineered by Symetrix’. We take great pride in the design of our products, so much so, that we often subconsciously overdo things — just a touch. It’s all for the better in the end, reinforcing our commitment to produce extremely high value, robust and affordable products for audio professionals.

As we’ve come to find out, the Zone Mix 760 is no exception. It is advertised as having three levels of paging plus emergency page and background music. However, it is possible to get four, and even five, levels of paging if you do not require the emergency page and/or wish to forego background music in a zone.

For up to four levels of priority paging plus one BGM (background music) source, you can use the Program 1 and Program 2 inputs for each zone as the lowest two paging levels (lowest of all is the BGM).

1. For a given zone, assign your BGM as the source for Program 1.
2. Select your lowest priority page mic as the source for Program 2.
3. Adjust the Ducker Threshold, Depth and Hold as necessary.
4. Set Page mics 2-4 as the sources for Page Stations 1-3.
5. Set the Page Station Priority to Low, Med and High, respectively, for Page Stations 1-3.
6. That’s it!

It is also possible to get five levels of paging. If you forego BGM in a zone, you can use the Program 1 source as your fifth paging source (lowest priority). Note that an external microphone preamplifier, such as the Symetrix 302 Dual Microphone Preamplifier, is required in order to connect microphones to the Audio Media inputs of the Zone Mix 760.

But why stop there? You can expand even further on this configuration because the Symetrix 302 is a dual microphone preamplifier, why not use that 2nd channel to feed the next Audio Media input on the 760 so you can have a unique lowest level paging source for another zone?

Where can I find a User's Guide for the 450 Dual Zone Priority Mixer?

Where can I find Schematics for the SX-202 Dual Microphone Preamplifier?

Can I upgrade my 6000/6100 to enable synchronized RS-232 delay?

Yes.  Have the unit serial number handy and contact support@symetrix.co or call +1 425 778 7728.

Where can I find a Data Sheet for the 571 SPL Computer?

Where can I find a Flow Chart for the 610 Broadcast Audio Delay?

No output from the 371 SPL Computer when using remote volume control.

Ensure that “Remote” is enabled in the Output Trim menu.

Is the SymNet AEC card compatible with the Radius 12x8?

No, only a DSP with a card slot will support the 4 Channel AEC Card, such as Edge and Radius AEC.

What kind of cable do I use to hook up the RC-3?

Standard two-conductor shielded twisted pair.

What exactly is Word Clock?

Word Clock is the timing reference that keeps the sampling rate constant. If, for example, we were recording at CD quality which means the A/D converter has to take 44,100 measurements of the incoming sound wave every second. If the clock isn’t as stable as it should be, then some seconds will have 44,100 samples while others might have more or less. The end result is a less than perfect digital representation of the wave. The clock frequency is the same value as the sampling rate.

Will phantom power damage my non-condenser microphones?

Generally no, some older ribbon microphones are somewhat susceptible, but it’s always a safe bet to disable phantom power when not needed.

What is the factory reset for the 6000/6100?

Power-cycle the unit while simultaneously holding down the Previous, Next & Home buttons on the front panel.

How can I change the XLR line output on my 528E Voice Processor to microphone level?

Tools Required:

#2 Phillips-head screwdriver

Top Cover Removal:

Ensure that the 528E is disconnected from the AC power source.

Remove two 6-32 x 1/2 inch screws from the top panel and two 6-32 x 1/2 inch screws from each side of the chassis.

Lift the top cover free of the chassis.

Changing The XLR Output Level:
The 528E ships from Symetrix with the XLR output configured for a line level output. If you must have a microphone level output, the following steps lead you through the process of switching the XLR line level output to microphone level (or back to line level).

Remove the top cover according to the steps outlined above.
As you look at the unit with the front panel facing you, locate the OUTPUT LEVEL switch (SW7) in the upper right side of the unit just below the XLR output connector. SW7 is in red in the diagram below.
Push the switch in to select MIC level output or out to select LINE level output.
Replace the top cover.
Reinstall the 528E into your setup.

528E Mic/Line switch

Where can I find a Data Sheet for the 450 Dual Zone Priority Mixer?

Where can I find a Flow Chart for the 628 Digital Voice Processor?

Where can I find a Data Sheet for the SX-202 Dual Microphone Preamplifier?

Can I use a USB to serial adaptor to communicate to a Composer-based system with RS-232?

Yes.  Note, Belkin cables show mixed results.

Where can I find a Data Sheet for the 565E Dual Compressor / Limiter / Expander?

Where can I find a User's Guide for the 308 VCA Volume Control / Loudness EQ?

Where can I find a Data Sheet for the 307 Dual Isolation Transformer?

Where can I find a Data Sheet for the 88192 A/D and D/A Converter?

Where can I find a Data Sheet for the AD9624 24-bit Stereo 96 kHz A/D Converter?

What is the maximum recommended length of a SymLink cable?

10 meters is the longest recommended cable length. In our lab, we have successfully used longer cables, up to 25 meters, but we only test and guarantee functionality at 10 meters. Additionally, the cables must be shielded to guarantee performance in environments susceptible to EMI and or RFI interference.

Attention power users:Visit this tech tip to find out how to extend SymLink up to 200 feet in certain applications.

For service and support should I contact my dealer or Symetrix directly?

Generally it’s best to contact the authorized Symetrix dealer first for service and support.  If this is not an option then contact Symetrix Support directly at support@symetrix.co or call +1 425 778 7728.

Where can I find a Data Sheet for the 440 Foreground Audio Controller?

Why does the 4 Channel Digital Output Card have a word clock input when this is an output card?

It seems confusing at first glance, but the word clock output is there so that the 4 Channel Digital Output Card can output AES or spdif to a downstream device at any sample rate between 12 kHz and 96 kHz. When no word clock is connected the 4 Channel Digital Output Card will output at 48 kHz.

Where is the serial number for my Symetrix product located?

Serial numbers are generally on a sticker on the bottom or back of the unit and usually begin with the numbers “80”.

Where can I find a Data Sheet for the AESx4 AES Distribution Amplifier, CLKx6 Word Clock Distribution Amplifier or GENx6-96 Word/Super Clock Generator?

What is SymVue Discovery?

SymNet Designer 9.1+ software features a discovery app that gives users immediate visibility of IP equipped devices on your network.  Learn more in this Tech Tip:

Tech Tip: SymVue Discovery

I receive Download Failed error when downloading to my SymNet Express unit over IP.

If you receive the following error when downloading to a SymNet Express unit over IP you may need to increase the MTU (maximum transmission unit) settings associated with your computer’s NIC (network interface card):

Download failed: Failed to download configuration on Ring #1, Address #1.

If your MTU settings are not large enough you will not be able to download over IP, though upload may still be possible.  Serial communication will not be affected.

MTU is the largest protocol data unit in bytes that can pass onwards.  SymNet will require an MTU setting of at least 1492.

To check your current MTU setting:

Start > Run > open: cmd

From the command prompt window type:
netsh interface ipv4 show subinterfaces

This will show the network interfaces on your computer and the packet size (MTU) limitation.  Make note of the MTU value and name of your Local Area Connection.

To change the MTU type:
netsh interface ipv4 set subinterface “Local Area Connection” mtu=nnnn store=persistent

where
Local Area Connection is the name of the network connection on your computer connected to SymNet.

nnnn is the desired value for MTU.

The 4 Channel Digital Output Card supports AES and SPDIF, how does it handle the different impedance of the two formats?

There is an impedance matching transformer on the 4 Channel Digital Output Card to switch between 110 Ohm and 75 Ohm.

Where can I find Schematics for the S/PDIFx7 S/PDIF Distribution Amplifier?

How does the 302 compare to the discontinued SX-202?

The 302 has significantly less noise and distortion. THD+Noise .007% (1kHz, 0dBu, 600 Ohms out) .01% (1kHz, +22dBu, 600 Ohms out) Signal to Noise Ratio 95 dB (-50 dBV, 150 Ohms in)

What is the RS-485 network?

RS-485 is a standardized network for balanced digital multipoint communication.  In Composer-based hardware, only ARCs can use the RS-485 network.

Where can I find a SymNet SymVue site file for the Automix Matrix 780?

This is a SymNet Designer file that contains pre-built control screens that will control the main parameters of an Automix Matrix 780.  The IP address in the SymNet file must match the IP address of the 780.  Once the IP addresses are aligned, the screens must be exported out of SymNet Designer and then opened SymVue software.

Tech Tip

Site File

Where can I find a Data Sheet for the 533E Graphic Equalizer?

What is the maximum recommended length of an RS-232 cable?

Typically, 50 feet is the maximum length for reliable communications over RS-232. Some laptop PC’s use the low power, low emission RS-562 instead of RS-232. With RS-562 your cable run will be much shorter than with RS-232. You can use a low cost RS-232 buffer/repeater amplifier to extend both RS-232 and RS-562 maximum cable lengths. There are many manufacturers of these types of products. Here are links to a few US sources:

B & B Electronics
R. E. Smith
Integrity Instruments

Third Party Product Disclaimer – From time to time we test the compatibility of our own products with those of third parties. While we are happy to share with our customers the results of our own studies as well as other (possibly unsubstantiated) information regarding these third party products, it is the policy of Symetrix, Inc. to neither endorse, recommend nor support products manufactured and/or supplied by third parties. The responsibility of choosing third party products which are compatible with Symetrix products rests solely with the qualified contractor, consultant or system designer.

In recognition of the relative risks and benefits to both the Integrator and SYMETRIX, INC, any recommendation or suggestion relating to the use of the Products made by SYMETRIX, INC or any other manufacturer either in technical literature or in response to a specific inquiry or otherwise, is given in good faith. HOWEVER, it is for the Integrator to satisfy himself that the Products are fit for the purpose of being utilized by a Consumer as the end-user of the Products. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SYMETRIX, INC is not liable for any and all claims, losses, costs, or unforeseen damages of any nature whatsoever. It is intended that this limitation apply to any and all liability or cause of action however alleged or arising, unless otherwise prohibited by law.

What is the communications turn-around delay on the 322 DSP Engine?

1ms at a baud rate of 38400.

Can SymLink busses be re-used to accommodate higher channel counts?

Yes, this can get confusing so it shouldn’t be attempted until users are familiar with the SymLink architecture. SymLink is a circular bus. The transmit port from one unit is connected to the receive port of the next unit using standard CAT5 cabling. You can send unique audio on this cable between any 2 units in a SymNet ring by using the “Send” object in SymNet Designer software. Every time you drop a “Send” object into a design, you have the ability to send new audio on the bus. Thus, audio can be received in a DSP unit caring a set of signals and then transmit a whole new set of signals “on the same” bus to the next device in the Ring. You must be aware of the order that SymNet devices are connected together. Please see Tech Notes for more detail concerning the re-use of SymLink busses.

How does ESE TC-89 time code work with the 6100 Broadcast Audio Delay?

The station or studio must be equipped with an ESE TC-89 master clock generator. The real time output of the master clock generator is connected to the 6100’s TIME CODE IN connector. The 6100 reads the incoming time code and adds to it the current amount of delay time. The time in delay (TID) is displayed on the 6100’s front panel LCD and also appears as time code at the 6100’s rear panel TIME CODE OUT connector that can be fed to a dedicated ESE clock for display of TID.

What do I do if I have a buzz or hum in the output of the 460 Presentation Audio Mixer?

1. Check input connector wiring.
2. Check output connector wiring.
3. If the hum or buzz is present in inputs 3 or 4, try connecting the chassis of the source equipment to the chassis of the 460. 4. Check for a ground loop problem. Inspect related systems equipment grounding to see that all system components are on the same AC ground.

Clicks, pops and/or pink noise on the analog outputs of the ADA8824 (ADAT) 24-bit Eight Channel A/D-D/A Converter?

This could be caused by a couple of scenarios:

A) If the 8824 is configured for the analogue outputs to get their source signal from the ADAT (optical) digital inputs and no signal is present the ADAT chip can act erratically and produce noise and digital garbage.

B) If the 8824 is configured for the analogue outputs to get their source signal from the ADAT (optical) digital inputs and the ADAT is turned off. Always power up ADATs and/or external clocks connected to the ADA 8824 first then power up the 8824 last.

Is the xControl an RS-485 device?

No, the xControl is a true POE device that communicates to the DSP hardware over Ethernet.

What is the difference between the ADA8824 (ADAT) 24-bit Eight Channel A/D-D/A Converter and the ADA8824 (Sonic) 24-bit Eight Channel A/D-D/A Converter for Sonic Solutions?

The ADA8824 (Sonic) 24-bit Eight Channel A/D-D/A Converter for Sonic Solutions is designed for use with Sonic Solutions SonicStudioTM software version 5.4 or greater. The ADA8824 (ADAT) 24-bit Eight Channel A/D-D/A Converter will interface with eight channel digital audio cards such as the Alesis PCR, the Sonorus Studi/o or directly to an ADAT via the multichannel lightpipe connecters. MIDI connecters and ADAT sync connecters provide a means of setting the unit’s configuration remotely with the provided 8824Config Mac or PC application.

Can I upgrade my 6000/6100 to enable TC89 offset capabilities?

Yes.  Have the unit serial number handy and contact support@symetrix.co or call +1 425 778 7728.

How do I re-initialize the 620 20-bit A/D Converter?

Partial re-initialization: Toggle between the analog and digital inputs, using the Input Select button.

Full re-initialization: Power the 620 up while holding in the Input Select and Output Mute buttons. Release the Input Select and Output Mute buttons when the Analog, 48Khz, 20 & Muted LED’s light.

What are the basic system requirements for the NB24 NuBus Computer I/O Card and PCI24 PCI Computer I/O Card?

To successfully install a PCI24 PCI Computer I/O Card in your computer, your system must be:

Power Macintosh with an available 7 inch PCI slot.
CPU speed greater than 75mhz for stereo applications and greater than 120 MHz for multi-track applications.
16Mb RAM (32MB recommended)
Mac OS 7.5.5, 7.6.1 or 8.0-8.1
Apple Sound Control Panel 8.0.3 or greater
System requirements for an NB24 NuBus Computer I/O Card are:

Macintosh with an available 7 inch NuBus slot
CPU speed greater than 20 MHz for stereo applications and greater than 50 MHz for multitrack applications
12Mb RAM (24MB recommended)
Mac OS 7.5x, 7.6.1 or 8.0
Sound control panel panel 8.0.3 or greater
Apple Sound Manager 3.1 or greater (for pre 7.5.2 Mac OS)

Where is the best placement for the 371 SPL Computer sensing microphone?

Ultimately the sensing microphone should be placed so that it’s picking up as much of the ambient noise as possible and as little of the speaker program as possible. The sensing microphone needs to “hear” the ambient sound within the controlled space. It is vital that you place the microphone where it primarily picks up a majority of noise rather than the paging or music that is going through the system. Do not locate the sensing microphone near a localized noise source that is not typical of the ambient noise level of the controlled zone, for example, the noise from a large machine of some sort, or maybe a kids play area, or a video game. If you do this the 371 will think that the zone is noisier than it really is.

The updated Designer 9.0 example design files and super-modules did not install with SymNet Designer 9.0 or higher.

If you are installing the full release version 9.0 but had a beta version previously installed, you must first completely uninstall the beta version for the new example files to appear.

If the example design files and super-modules do not appear after uninstalling the beta version and installing the full release, it may be necessary to manually delete the SND 9.0 beta registry section (HKEY_CURRENT_USERSoftwareSymetrixSymNet Designer 9.0) as well as the SymNet Designer 9.0 folder (My DocumentsSymNet Designer 9.0).

Then re-install SymNet Designer 9.0 and the new example files will appear.

How do I set up the 420 Stereo Power Amplifier in mono bridge?

To prevent inadvertent setting, the bridged-mono mode switch is located inside of the 420. To set or reset the switch, use the following procedure:

1. Disconnect the 420 from the AC power source.

2. Remove the top cover.

3. Locate the switch, which is situated near the input connectors.

4. Depress the switch plunger to select mono-bridge mode so that the plunger remains IN. For stereo mode, the switch plunger should be OUT.

5. Replace the top cover and all fasteners previously removed.

In mono-bridge mode, use the CHANNEL 1 INPUT, and connect the speaker across the two plus (+) output terminals. The channel 1 plus output terminal is the in-phase or non-inverting output connection. Connect it to the plus side of the speaker. Only the CHANNEL 1 GAIN control is functional. If you connect a pair of headphones to the front panel STEREO HEADPHONES jack, they will receive out-of-phase signals not harmful to anything (except phase or polarity fanatics).

In mono-bridge mode, the 420 delivers 40 watts into an 8 Ohm load. The minimum load impedance is 8 Ohms.

Where can I find a Flow Chart for the 450 Dual Zone Priority Mixer?

Where can I find a User's Guide for the 307 Dual Isolation Transformer?

How does the 371 SPL Computer know the difference between the paging / music and ambient noise?

During the calibration procedure the 371 uses AmbiSense technology to calculates the percentage of the sense signal that is picked up from the paging and/or music that is going through the sound system. AmbiSense allows music or page pickup without any ill effects on its operation, up to about a 50:50 mix of music/page to ambient. In an extreme case where the sense microphone picks up 100% music/ page (0% ambient noise), AmbiSense will not be able to extract enough information to use for gain control.Basically this is how it works:

During the first stage of calibration, the 371 measures and calculates an averaged value of both the program material, and of the signal picked up by the sense microphone. Then during the second step of calibration, after the installer manually increases the program loudness, another set of readings are taken and averaged. Now, we have four numbers:

1. Average sense signal during quiet room

2. Average sense signal during loud(er) music

3. Average program level during first calibration step

4. Average program level during second calibration step

From these numbers (and other sneaky means) we can then calculate a good estimate of what percentage of the sense signal is due to the pickup of program audio, and therefore what percentage of the sense signal is likely to reflect the actual ambient noise.

Where can I find a Flow Chart for the 506E Headphone Amplifier?

How do I use third party RS-232 control using an ARC-2 or ARC-2i?

The ARC-2 and ARC-2i are versatile remote controllers that can hold up to twenty-four (24) total menu items and can easily be programmed to manage anything from gain, preset triggering, source selection, room combining and more.

Many installations require channel control on an external device, such as a television or satellite receiver.

Below are the easy step-by-step instructions to add this specific ARC-2 programming to your SymNet site file.  To begin, you will need to download the following link to the files containing the ARC-2 Channel Up/Down Super-Module, as well as the ARC-2 Programming.

http://www.symetrixaudio.com/kb/channel_up-down_arc2.zip

Importing the ARC-2 Programming:

1)     Open the Controller Manager

2)     On the right side, bottom half, under File click “Import…”

3)     Use the drop down, select the Ring the ARC-2 will physically connect to

4)     Browse to the folder containing download files, highlight “channel_up_down_arc2” and click “Open”

5)     Expand the RS-485 network to verify that the “TV / SAT Channel Controls” ARC-2 remote was successfully imported

6)     Edit ARC-2 RS-485 address to match your hardware (default is 0)

Importing the Super-Module:

1)     Open your site file, navigate to the design view (signal path).

2)     Tools->Super-module Manager, click the “Import” button

3)     Browse to the folder containing download files, highlight “channel_Up_DownARC2_supermod” and click “Open”

4)     Now in the Toolkit, expand “Super-modules”

5)     Drag the “channel_Up_DownARC2_supermod” into your design

6)     Click the red triangle in upper right corner of super-module for a description of adjustable controls and parameters

7)     Open super-module control screen, make parameter adjustments if needed

8)     Turn “On” 232 String Output (be sure to add RS-232 string for up and down command) and/or Open Collector Output to trigger channel attenuation from the ARC-2/2i

9)     “Download Entire Site File to SymNet” and to the RS-485 network devices.

After completing these easy steps, the ARC-2 or ARC-2i will control the channels of the third party device.

What is the maximum recommended length of an RS-485 cable?

4000 feet is the longest recommended cable length.

Why do I need a clock generator?

All digital audio gear requires some kind of timing reference in order to accurately maintain the sample rate. Because of this, every piece of digital gear has an internal clock. When digital communications are desired between devices, allowing each subsequent unit to control its own clock can and will result in degraded audio performance. This can be heard as “smearing” of the audio, loss of accuracy in the high end, degraded stereo imaging, and even clicks & pops. Controlling all of the sample clocks from one master timing reference eliminates jitter (timing irregularities) and assures the integrity of the sample rate, yielding better sounding audio.

Where can I find a Data Sheet for the 562E Windowing Expander / Gate?

Where can I find a Data Sheet for the TI-101 Telephone Interface?

What address do I use when returning products for service?

Print the RA number(s) clearly on the outside of the box and send to:
Symetrix, Inc.
6408 216th ST SW
Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043

How do I reset the 372 SPL Computer to the factory default settings?

After a lightning strike, flood, nuclear blast, or other catastrophic disturbance, the 372 may become inoperative if the data stored in its EPROM memory has been corrupted. The 372 can be returned to its factory default state by performing a master reset. To do this:

1. Unplug AC power

2. Press and hold in the EXIT and CAL buttons.

3. Reconnect AC power.

4. Let go of the EXIT and CAL buttons.

Now the LCD screen will display “EEPROM defaults restored” followed by the software version number. After doing this, all previous setup and calibration data will have been lost and must be re-entered as if it were a brand-new installation.

I can not ‘Go On-line’ with my Symetrix 780 after successfully completing the software’s Connection Wizard.

If you have successfully completed the Connection Wizard but when attempting to ‘Go On-line’ with hardware you receive a ‘Connection Error’ message, then it is possible that proxy server settings are enabled on your computer and are preventing network communications with your Symetrix device.

Wireless cards may also prevent connection and should be disabled.

To disable the proxy server settings on your computer, or specify the IP address of your Symetrix device as an exception that will not use the proxy server:

Click the Windows Start Menu and choose Control Panel.

Open Internet Options.

Click on the Connections tab.

Click on LAN settings.

Un-check “Use a proxy server for your LAN” or click on Advanced and enter the IP address of your device in the Exceptions field.

Note: Instructions assume Windows XP Professional. The steps and may vary slightly for other Windows operating systems.

Where can I find a Flow Chart for the Zone Mix 760 and 761?

The Flow Chart for the Zone Mix 760 and 761 can be found below. This document can be navigated like a web site by clicking on various points in the signal chain to view a particular part of the signal chain as represented in the Zone Mix 760 and 761 software.

760 Flow Chart

Why is my 302 so distorted?

Check the level of the input signal on the 302’s LED display. Is the CLIP light on all the time? If so, reduce the incoming signal level by turning the INPUT level counterclockwise. Is the incoming signal already distorted? Make sure that your microphone is not broken, and that the mic is not distorting, sometimes vocalists get a little too close to the mic causing its capsule and/or internal electronics to distort. Most studio condensers have switchable -10dB and -20dB pads to reduce the level from the capsule before it goes to the electronics, these are almost always needed with drum over-heads and high hats.

Can a ADA8824 (Sonic) 24-bit Eight Channel A/D-D/A Converter for Sonic Solutions be converted into a ADA8824 (ADAT) 24-bit Eight Channel A/D-D/A Converter?

No.

Why is the MUSIC/PAGE ERROR LED flashing at the end of my calibration of the 571 SPL Computer?

During calibration, the 571 requires continuous paging or music signal at its HOUSE PAGE, MUSIC IN or PAGE MIC inputs, if the PAGE/MUSIC switch on the rear of the 571 is in the “MUSIC” position. If the PAGE/MUSIC switch is in the “PAGE” position, calibration of the 571 requires continuous paging signal at either the HOUSE PAGE input or the PAGE MIC input. If the MUSIC/PAGE ERROR LED flashes, it means that the calibration was unsuccessful, because there was not enough signal present at the appropriate input(s).

Check the position of the MUSIC/PAGE switch. If it is in the “MUSIC” position, check that paging or music signals are being generated continuously and that they are at an appropriate level, i.e. line level (0dB) for the HOUSE PAGE or MUSIC IN inputs, and mic level (-40dB) for the PAGE MIC input. Make sure that these signals are actually reaching the desired 571 input (check your cables).

If the MUSIC/PAGE switch is in the “PAGE” position, check that paging signals are being generated continuously and that they are at an appropriated level, i.e. line level (0dB) for the HOUSE PAGE input, and mic level (-40dB) for the PAGE MIC input. Make sure that you are sending continuous signal to one of the page inputs, not the music input, and make sure that these signals are actually reaching the desired 571 input (check your cables).

If you are using the PAGE MIC input, check that the PAGE MIC trimpot has been turned clockwise. If this trimpot is turned part of the way to the full clockwise position, and the MUSIC/PAGE ERROR LED flashes when you attempt a calibration, try turning the PAGE MIC trimpot completely clockwise.

What PCI cards and software work with the ADA8824 (ADAT) 24-bit Eight Channel A/D-D/A Converter?

The ADA8824 (ADAT) works with the Alesis ADAT Connect and ADAT Edit software using their PCR PCI card. We’ve also tested the ADA8824 with the SonorusStudi/o card using Cubase VST. Virtually any PCI card which has either ADATLightpipe, AES or S/PDIF digital audio I/O should work.

How many channels of CobraNet audio will an Express DSP transmit and receive?

16×16.

Can separate/independent SymNet systems exist on the same CobraNet network without control conflicts?

Yes.  This is made possible by specifying a Site Identifier.  In Designer, right-click on the CobraNet equipped unit and choose Properties.  Then click IP Options.

Why is my audio dropping out from my 421m AGC-Leveler or 422 Stereo AGC-Leveler?

On the 421m, the AUTO RELEASE THRESHOLD may be set too high. Turn this control further counter-clockwise. Additionally, the EXPANDER THRESHOLD may be set too high. Turn this control further clockwise.

On the 422, the DETECTOR THRESHOLD may be set too high. Turn this control further counter-clockwise.

Where can I find Schematics for the 506E Headphone Amplifier?

Can the 620 20-bit A/D Converter be used for sample rate conversion?

The 620 20-bit A/D Converter can only be used to convert sample rates from 44.1 kHz to 22.05 kHz.

What are the jitter specifications for the SSG192 High Definition Studio Sync Generator?

25ps rms, 80ps peak jitter; ppm drift less than 5ppm typical, 20ppm max.

USB to serial (RS-232) converter and Symetrix manufactured products.

Many USB to serial converters (RS-232) were designed and manufactured before the release of Windows XP. If you are having trouble connecting to a device with a USB to serial converter, make sure you have a current driver. Go to the converter manufacturer’s website and download the latest driver(s).

What should the ambient noise conditions be when I calibrate the 572 SPL Computer?

Calibration must be done when ambient noise is at its normal minimum level for the area.

Where can I find AutoCAD files for the 450 Dual Zone Priority Mixer?

Where can I find a User's Guide for the 525 Dual Gated Compressor Limiter?

Why can't I get audio input with SoundEdit 16?

There is a problem with SoundEdit 16 when using audio cards and recording audio with the meter panel up. Disable the panel when recording.

Where can I find a Data Sheet for the 306 Preamp / Ducker?

Where can I find SymVue templates for the Room Combine 788?

Integrator Series templates are pre-made and fully functional.  The Room Combine 788 template has a Tech Tip associated with it that goes over the basic instructions for customizing fields, presets, and IP parameters in the .sym file.

Tech Tip

Room Combine 788 SymVue Template

How do I change the nominal input/output levels on the 322 DSP Engine?

The 322 has two sets of internal jumper that allow you to change the I/O levels. Jumpers J5 and J8 control the input levels. To change the input levels, place the jumpers into position 2-3 for +4 input levels or position 1-2 for -10 input levels. Jumpers J13 and J18 control the output levels. To change the output levels, place the jumpers into position 2-3 for +4 output levels or position 1-2 for -10.

Where can I find a User's Guide for the 620 20-bit A/D Converter?

Can the ARC-PS be used with Integrator Series devices (722, 760, 780, 788)?

Yes.  Simply connect the RS-485 ports of the ARC-PS to the RS-485 port on the Integrator Series hardware.  No special programming is needed.

Why are there word clock inputs on the 4 Channel Digital Output card?

SymNet digital outputs will be used to send digital audio to a 3rd party digital device which may be running on a different sample rate than Edge or Radius AEC’s internal rate of 48 kHz. With a word clock input respectively, each digital out pair can send audio at any sample rate between 32 kHz and 192 kHz.

Where can I find AutoCAD files for the 460 Presentation Audio Mixer?

Which software is compatible with the PCI24 PCI Computer I/O Card and NB24 NuBus Computer I/O Card?

As of November 25, 1998

The PCI24 supports the following software applications:

Peak from BIAS v1.0 – v2.0
SoundEdit 16 v2.01 – 2.07
Cubase VST (ASIO) v3.02 – v4.0
Deck II v2.2 – 2.5.1
Studio Vision / Vision DSP (ASIO) v4.1
The NB24 supports the following Macintosh applications:

Peak from Bias v1.0 – 1.6
Deck II v2.2 & 2.5.1 or SoundEdit 16 v2.0
OpcodeAudioShop and/or Studio Vision Pro v3.0 (stereo only)
Digidesign Session 2.0 and/or ProtoolsPowermix v3.2
Logic Audio v2.5

Where can I find a Data Sheet for the 402 Dual Output Delay?

Where can I find a Flow Chart for the 372 SPL Computer?

Where can I find a Data Sheet for the 104A Multi-line Telephone Interface?

Where can I find Schematics for the 440 Foreground Audio Controller?

Is SymNet Designer Mac compatible?

No, but SymNet programmers have success using various virtual Windows solutions.

Tip: Select bridged network mode as opposed to NAT. This will force your virtual machine to use the same network interface your Mac is using.

Why does the SENSE INPUT ERROR LED continue to flash at the end of the 571 SPL Computer calibration process?

The SENSE INPUT ERROR LED flashes at the end of a calibration attempt to indicate that the 571 is not receiving ambient level information on either the SENSE MIC 1 or SENSE MIC 2 inputs. If this happens, your calibration attempt was unsuccessful. Make sure that the SENSE 1 trimpot and the SENSE 2 trimpot(if used) are turned clockwise. If this trimpot is turned part of the way to the full clockwise position, and the SENSE INPUT ERROR LED flashes when you attempt a calibration, try turning the SENSE 1 AND SENSE 2 trimpots completely clockwise.

Check your mic cables, and make sure that a sense mic is actually plugged in to each sense mic cable. If your sense mics have ON/OFF switches, make sure that these are in the “ON” position. Current revision 571’s have phantom power on all mic inputs, but 571’s manufactured prior to early 1996 do not have phantom power, so you will need external power supplies for condenser mics used with pre-1996 571’s. Do not use an unbalanced mic with the 571. These mics usually short XLR pin 3 (“RING” on a 1/4 ” connector) to ground. If you connected one of these to a mic input on a current revision 571, you would be shorting the phantom power supply to ground. Also, an unbalanced mic line is far more likely than a balanced line to pick up noise, RF, etc. You can check your sense mic and mic cable by unplugging the cable from the 571’s SENSE MIC 1 or SENSE MIC 2 input, plugging the cable into a mic pre-amp, and listening to the output of the pre-amp with headphones. Be sure to reconnect the sense mic cable to the 571 afterwards!

You can also view the SENSE MIC inputs using the built-in factory test for the 571. To get into test mode, hold in the 571’s MODE switch for about 10 seconds, until the far left GAIN (dB) LED begins to flash. You are now in “Sense View” mode, and the GAIN (dB) LED’s will indicate the level of the ambient signal being picked up by the sense mics. If no LED’s light in this mode, try turning the Sense Mictrimpots completely clockwise. To return to “Operate” mode, power down the 571 and turn it back on.

How do I backup and restore to DAT using Cubase VST?

Backup to DAT (Stream to DAT) Use S/PDIF only.

1. Place all files in a folder.
2. Start DAT recording.
3. Start backup process.
4. Stop when VST indicates backup is finished.

To restore from DAT (Stream from DAT) Use S/PDIF only.

1. Select folder as instructed by VST.
2. Start recording in VST.
3. Start DAT.
4. Stop when VST indicates all files transferred

My RS-232 to USB adapter is not working.

Is your RS-232 to USB adapter not working? Visit the manufacturer’s website to download and install the XP driver for the adapter in question. We found many adapters ship with older Windows 2000 drivers and these have been problematic under XP.

Where can I find an owner's manual for my Symetrix product?

All technical and operational instructions and documentation for current Symetrix products are contained within the Help menu of the Designer and/or Composer software. Simply click on the question-mark icon on the toolbar in Designer/Composer and search your topic.

Download the latest version of Designer or Composer at www.symetrix.co.

How can I use both the mic and line inputs simultaneously on the 528E Voice Processor?

Remove the 528E’s LED board
Cut Pin #2 between the two switches.
Add two 1K resistors as shown below.

528E Mic/Line Switch Mod

Where can I find a Data Sheet for the SSG192 High Definition Studio Sync Generator?

Where can I find a Flow Chart for the 572 SPL Computer?

If 8 channels of Dante audio are sent from one Edge Frame, does that mean that the second frame in the system now has only 56 channels of Dante left to transmit on, similar to how SymLink shared 64 channels amongst the entire ring?

Each Edge unit uses a Brooklyn II card which gives each Edge unit 64×64 discreet Dante inputs and outputs. This is not a shared number between units, as a total of 1024 channels can live on a Gigabit network at one time, such as in the case that 16 Edge frames are all transmitting 64 unique channels of Dante.

How do I exit delay for traffic reports and remotes on the 610?

Live traffic reports and commercial remotes require off-air monitoring and cueing. If the station broadcasts in delay, the reporter will hear his cue 7.5 seconds late which will result in 7.5 seconds of dead-air. In radio, 7.5 seconds of dead-air is a capital offense. There are operational procedures which will prevent the problem.

When using the full-dump mode: During delayed programs which include live traffic reports or news reports, the on-air talent must instantly return to real time for the live remote. This requires that the 610 be operated in the full-dump mode; all 7.5 seconds of delay must dump when the DUMP button is pushed. This procedure will not work properly when the 610 is in the two-stage dump mode.

Shortly before the live report the board operator must put the Symetrix 610 in the EXIT mode. The 610 begins backing down to real time. Next, the air talent gives the traffic reporter his standard verbal cue and stops talking. Immediately switch the studio monitors to off-air monitoring. When the verbal cue for the traffic reporter is heard, the board operator pushes the DUMP button on the 610. The station is now on-air at real time for the traffic report. At the end of the report the board operator should push the START button and the 610 will begin building back the 7.5 second delay.

1. Before the live report, put the 610 in the EXIT mode.
2. Give the remote talent their normal verbal cue.
3. Switch the studio to off-air monitoring.
4. When the verbal cue is heard on the air, push the DUMP button. (This puts the station on-air in real time.)
5. At the end of the live report, push the START button.
6. Switch the studio monitors back to “board output.”

When using the half-dump mode: During delayed programs which include live traffic reports or news reports, the on-air talent must instantly return to real time for the live remote. This method operates in either the full-dump or half-dump mode. You must provide the operator with the remote BYPASS function in the form of a SPST switch wired between pins 13 and 14 of the remote connector J8. (See your 610 User’s Manual.)

Shortly before the live report the air talent gives the traffic reporter his standard verbal cue and stops talking. Immediately switch the studio monitors to off-air monitoring. When the verbal cue for the traffic reporter is heard, the board operator pushes the remote BYPASS/OPERATE button. This forces the 610 into the BYPASS mode and the station is on-air in real time for the traffic report.

At the end of the report the board operator should push the remote BYPASS/OPERATE button and then the START button and the 610 will begin building back the 7.5 second delay.

1. While still in delay, give the remote talent their normal verbal cues.
2. Switch the studio to off-air monitoring.
3. When the verbal cue is heard on the air, push the remote BYPASS/OPERATE button. (This puts the station on-air in real time.)
4. At the end of the live report, push the BYPASS/OPERATE button and then the START button.
5. Switch the studio monitors back to “board output.”

Why doesn't the 421m AGC-Leveler or 422 Stereo AGC-Leveler work when I test them on my bench with a sine wave or pink noise?

The units will not attempt leveling action on a sine wave or pink noise because they do not recognize a sine wave or pink noise as true audio. To test the units, you must use a real-world audio source, such as music or speech.

How do I download the ARC-WEB to my mobile device?

No download is necessary.  ARC-WEB is a web app that is hosted on the Jupiter hardware.  After programming the ARC-WEB in the Jupiter software, simply type in the hardware’s IP address into your web browser.

Where can I find Schematics for the 525 Dual Gated Compressor Limiter?

Where can I find a Data Sheet for the 6200 Digital Voice Processor?

What is the battery for on the SymNet 8x8 DSP motherboard?

There is indeed a battery on the DSP motherboard. Its only function is to keep the real time system clock running when power is disconnected from the SymNet hardware. FYI – the system clock drives the Event Scheduler – the feature that allows you to create a timed roster of preset and control output changes.

What can I do if the 572 SPL Computer does not accurately adjust the system level as ambient noise changes?

1. Repeat the calibration procedure. Make sure that you calibrate at a time when the ambient noise level is at a minimum, and check that you have set the MIN and MAX controls to give you the desired level adjustment range.

2. Disconnect the speakers from the system and, using a microphone preamplifier connected to the speaker(s), listen in headphones to what the 572 “hears” when it is sensing. Listen for any noises, such as air conditioning noise, that could falsely trigger a gain change. Listen for any hum or buzz. Make the necessary adjustments to correct any problems that you discover (reposition sensing speaker, fix or re-route wiring, etc.).

3. If you are using horn speakers, you may be overloading the sense input of the 572. Try disconnecting the amplifier and horn speakers from the FROM AMP and TO SPEAKER CONNECTIONS of the 572. Now connect the LINE OUTPUT of the 572 to the amplifier input, and connect the amplifier output to the speaker inputs. Then, use a single 8-ohm, paper cone speaker as your “sensing speaker”, connecting it to the FROM SPEAKER connection on the 572.

Will the ADA8824 (Sonic) 24-bit Eight Channel A/D-D/A Converter for Sonic Solutions work as a stand alone converter?

No, the ADA8824 (Sonic) 24-bit Eight Channel A/D-D/A Converter for Sonic Solutions is specifically designed to interface with Sonic Solutions SonicStudioTM.

How do I hook up a 302 to my computer?

If your computer has a sound card with line level inputs (NOT microphone level!!!), use the TRS line output jack connecting the tip as (+) and the sleeve as the common or ground. However, it is recommended to have a computer audio card or interface with professional +4 dBu balanced line level inputs.

Why am I missing the bottom of my SymNet Designer control screen?

SymNet Designer is configured to work with displays that have 1024×768 resolution of greater. If your computer is running 800×600, then some controls and status indicators will be outside the display area of your monitor. You may be able to change your display resolution via the Windows Control Panel.

Why can't I get the 421m AGC-Leveler or 422 Stereo AGC-Leveler to do much leveling action?

You may have the RATIO control set too low. Try turning it up to around 4:1.

What is the power output of the 304 Headphone Amplifier?

Approximately 200mW at 60 ohms or 21dBm at 600 ohms.

Will the ADA8824 (ADAT) 24-bit Eight Channel A/D-D/A Converter work with ProTools?

Yes. While Digidesign encourages its customers to use their own proprietary hardware it is possible to make digital audio transfers to and from ProTools using industry standard AES or ADAT (lightpipe) connections. If you are a ProTools user and have a Digi 888(24) interface you can bypass the converters in the 888(24) and connect to a Lucid ADA8824 (ADAT) or other external converter via the 888(24)’s AES inputs and outputs. If you have a Digi ADAT Bridge you can make direct digital connections to the Lucid ADA8824 (ADAT) via the lightpipe connectors on each device. Note: Older versions of the Digidesign ADAT Bridge only support 20-bit audio transfers. The newer ADAT Bridges are 24-bit and are what we recommend to work with the Lucid 8824 (ADAT). The ADA8824 (ADAT) also makes a great front end for the Digi001 and Digi002 via their ADAT Lightpipe connections.

Where can I find a Data Sheet for the 301 Low Distortion Compressor / Limiter?

Why are my 304 outputs distorted or not working?

Check input signal. Is it too hot, or is it already distorted? Check for output loading. Are you running too many headphones per channel or possibly one of them is shorted? Are all the channels distorted or dead or just one?

Does the 4 Channel Analog Input Card have 48v phantom power on the inputs?

Yes.

Where can I find a Data Sheet for the 420 Stereo Power Amplifier?

Where is the Sound Control Panel in Mac OS 8.x?

With system 8.0 and up the Sound Control Panel can be found in the Apple Extras folder, rather than the Control Panels folder.

Should Symetrix hardware have an extra rack space above and below it in the equipment rack?

Anecdotal evidence suggests a longer life-span of Symetrix hardware that is separated by at least one additional space in the equipment rack.  This is in addition to following the guidelines for maximum recommended ambient operation temperature.  See unit’s Quick Start Guide for information.

Why can't I monitor the analog outputs when feeding signal to the analog input on the ADA8824 (ADAT) 24-bit Eight Channel A/D-D/A Converter?

The analog outputs from the 8824 are fed by either the Optical or AES digital inputs, there are no connections between the A/D and D/A. If you just want to get signal looping through the unit for test purposes, attach an ADAT loopback cable (connect the ADAT OUT to ADAT IN directly with a single cable).

When is shielded CAT5/6 cable recommended?

SymLink bus and Dante network connections.  In addition to EMI and RF protection the shield also helps ensure the same ground potential between units.  Under normal controlled conditions it’s unlikely that using unshielded CAT5 will have negative results.

Audinate recommends using only CAT6 cable for Dante as it can support larger bandwidth than CAT5.

Where can I find Schematics for the 564E Quad Expander / Gate?

What Sonic Solutions software works with the ADA8824 (Sonic) 24-bit Eight Channel A/D-D/A Converter for Sonic Solutions?

SonicStudioTM version 5.4 or higher.

What steps are necessary in order to run Dante DSP with Dante set to “Redundant Mode”?

All Dante devices ship with Dante in the default “Switched mode”. This allows units to be daisy chained, eliminating the need for 3rd party networking hardware. When in “Switched mode” if the Dante hardware is setup physically in a Redundant network configuration, traffic from the Primary Dante port will flow out the Secondary Dante port, and the Dante traffic from the Secondary Dante port will flow out the Primary Dante port. This creates a data feedback loop on the Dante network that will crash the Dante cards in the SymNet units. SymNet units with only Dante connections, such as the xIn 12 and the xOut 12, may become unresponsive until they are power cycled and the redundant Dante network switch is turned off or the redundant ports are unplugged from the secondary Dante network.

As such, to set the system to run Dante in “Redundant mode”, first go online with the system with only the Primary Dante port connected to the network or network switch. Alternatively, if the Secondary Dante ports are already connected to a network switch, turn off the secondary Dante network switch/switches. If the Secondary network switch cannot be turned off, or both Primary and Secondary Dante use the same network or switch, then unplug all Secondary Dante ports.

Next, go to Composer>Dante Flow Manager and hit the “Configure Dante…” button and set the Secondary Dante jack to “Redundant Network”. Then push the file to the SymNet system.

Verify via a DSP’s front panel display that the Dante mode now reads “Redundant”. When it does indicate “Redundant” mode is active, plug in the secondary Dante ports or turn on the secondary Dante network switch/switches.

Is it OK to hot swap a 4 Channel Analog Output Card with a different SymNet I/O card?

No, it is never OK to hot swap a I/O card in a SymNet DSP.  Please take the Composer certification for more info on this procedure.

What are the default IP settings of network ready SymNet devices?

Express and CobraLink do not have default IP settings. IP settings are user specified and are static.

Solus hardware will obtain an address through DHCP. If no address has been assigned (either by the user or by DHCP) a default 169.254 IP base is used.

Tip: The last two octets of the IP address can be determined by converting the last two groups of numbers of the unit’s MAC address from hex to decimal.

In a multi-box system, what unit do I connect the host computer to?

For normal use you will always connect to a Master unit.

TI-101 Telephone Interface has hum in the caller audio

The signal to noise performance of the TI-101 can be improved 15 dB by relocating the power transformer. If your power transformer is mounted on the bottom of the chassis its field induces hum into the caller output transformer. Remounting the power transformer to the side of the chassis corrects the problem. The details are in the TI-101 Service Notes.

ARC Power Calculator

An ARC’s power requirements vary depending on the voltage supplied to it. For example, an ARC-2e at 24V DC uses approximately 55 mA, while at 7V DC it uses approximately 170 mA maximum. As the voltage varies from 24 to 7 VDC, the current requirement increases accordingly. ARCs can be daisy-chained and fed power over this daisy-chain from an ARC-PSe or other device. However, as the length of the cable increases, so does the resistive line loss, which lowers the voltage available at each subsequent ARC. The actual power drain on each output from the powering device can vary substantially depending on the number of ARCs and the distance each of them is separated by. In order to assist with system design, Symetrix has available a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet that can help a system designer determine power requirements based upon cable length, number of ARCs and the power supply to be used.

Download Link: ARC Power Calculator.

Does the 4 Channel Analog Input Card have the same mic pre as the Radius 12x8 and Radius AEC?

Yes, the same input circuit is used for all SymNet Composer hardware.

Clicks and pops when using external clock with the ADA8824 (ADAT) 24-bit Eight Channel A/D-D/A Converter?

Determine which external clock (AES1 thru 3, S/PDIF, WORD, ADAT optical) is causing clicks. Its entirely possible the ADA8824 is working correctly but that the clicks are occurring somewhere else in his system, or that there is a sync issue with the system (master/slave stuff, etc). There can be only one master device in a clocking system, all others must slave to it either directly or indirectly. Additionally, when using AES input, ensure that all AES sources are in sync (referencing the same clock source themselves).

When must you calibrate the 371 SPL Computer?

Calibrate at a quiet-to-average time in the controlled space. It helps if you have an estimate (sound pressure level) of the maximum desired level. Check the sound system to see that it is capable of delivering that level.

Why do I hear distortion when the 610 Broadcast Audio Delay is activated?

A level increase of this magnitude will increase the amount of compression applied by the limiter by 6 dB. This change will be noticed by anyone sensitive to the station’s sound. Distortion will become evident if the input circuit of the limiter runs out of headroom and clips. Clipping may also occur in other devices downstream from the audio processor in your audio chain (distribution amps, STL transmitters).

On-air talent will invariably accuse the 610 for any degradation in audio quality because the problem will make itself evident when they push the START button on the 610 and begin building delay.

One solution is to convert the input of the device plugged into the 610’s output to a bridging (high impedance) input. If this is done, the console output will switch between two bridging inputs when the 610 cycles between bypass and operate. There will be no significant change in loading to the console output.

Most modern equipment is built with electronically balanced inputs. Transformer inputs are virtually never used anymore. If an input presents a 600-ohm load, it is most likely created by the addition of a 620-ohm resistor across the input circuit. Removal of this resistor may be all that is required to convert the input to a bridging input. Consult the manual, or call the manufacturer of your audio processor, for assistance.

How do I configure Jupiter?

Jupiter hardware is network ready and is configured with a PC running the Jupiter software.

Where can I download the software for the 6200 Digital Voice Processor?

6200 Designer runs on a Windows PC and is used to configure, design and control the 6200 Digital Voice Processor. Firmware for the 6200 is included and upgraded through 6200 Designer.

6200_v103.exe

Where can I find a Data Sheet for the 488 DYNA-Squeeze?

Where can I find Schematics for the 562E Windowing Expander / Gate?

Can the xOut 12 be used to send Dante digital audio to a 3rd party Dante enabled device?

Yes, but a SymNet DSP must be present to setup and program the xOut 12. Once programmed the xOut 12 can transmit the Dante audio to any Dante enabled device.

The 4 Channel Digital Input Card support AES and SPDIF. How does it handle the different impedance of the two formats?

There is an impedance matching transformer on the 4 Channel Digital Input Card to switch between 110Ohm and 75Ohm.

What are the differences between the 6100 Broadcast Audio Delay and 6000 Broadcast Audio Delay?

The AirTools 6100 ships standard with: AES-3 digital input and output, Word clock input, Remote Control via RS-232 or RS-485, ESE TC-89 Time Clock Reader.

The AirTools 6000 does not have these features.

Where can I find a Data Sheet for the 528E Voice Processor?

How long can the cables be connecting the 303 to my computer or CD player?

The unbalanced cables (those connected to the -10dBV equipment or RCA connectors) should be kept at 6 feet or less to minimize the noise and hum that may be induced. The balanced (+4dBu) cables can be ran hundreds of feet with very little induced hum and noise.

Where can I find a User's Guide for the SX-208 Stereo Compressor / Limiter?

How can the 302 improve recording quality?

The 302 is an ultra-clean two channel dual mono preamp for use in critical digital and analog recording situations. For optimum sonic performance and lowest possible noise, route the 302’s output(s) directly into the tape machine or recording device’s line input(s) as opposed to going through a mixing console. This approach eliminates unnecessary noise and coloration, also most built-in mic pre amps on the small portable recorders and computer sound cards are rather noisy, using the line input and a good clean mic-pre will almost always result in a cleaner sounding recording.

Where can I find Schematics for the 303 Interface Amplifier (Bi-directional)?

Will the optional card slot on the Radius AEC support all SymNet I/O card options?

Absolutely. All SymNet I/O card are 100% compatible with Radius AEC and Edge.

Why is the signal from my 303 Interface Amplifier (Bi-directional) noisy?

Check the input signal. The 303’s unbalanced inputs are designed to run at -10dBV nominal, and the 303’s balanced inputs are designed to run at +4dBu nominal. Make sure that you are feeding a line level (not mic level) signal to the 303 at the appropriate nominal level. Check gain settings on downstream equipment. The system gain structure should be such that the 303 operates at or near unity gain. Is the input signal already noisy?

Where can I find a Flow Chart for the 501 Peak-RMS Compressor / Limiter?

After upgrading to SymNet Designer from an earlier version, my control screens are behaving strangely.

There is a remote chance that the control screen or SymVue panel created in an earlier version of Designer contains control data that no longer matches the current module.  (Pre Designer 8.0 and older increases this risk.)

First, replace the control in the control screen with a new one from the existing module.  If this does not solve the problem, it may be necessary to replace the original module from which the control was copied.

What is a SymNet Ring, Address, Master and Slave?

A Ring is a group of hardware linked together via the SymLink bus.  A single Express unit is also a Ring within it’s self.

An Address is the unique identifier of a device in a SymLink Ring.

A Master is the Address 1 unit.  Express units are always Address 1 and are therefor a Ring Master as no other devices “slave” to an Express.

A Slave is a non-Master unit in a SymLink Ring.

Does the Radius 12x8 work with the other Dante enabled SymNet hardware?

Yes, but it doesn’t stop there.  All Dante enabled SymNet hardware, including the Radius 12×8, is compatible with any Dante hardware from any manufacturer.

Where can I find Schematics for the 307 Dual Isolation Transformer?

What do I do if I'm experiencing noise (hiss) from the 460 Presentation Audio Mixer?

1. Check input signal levels and level control settings.
2. Check to see if the source signal is noisy.
3. Check if there is too much noise downstream by using the output level controls of the 460 at Mute.

What are dual-mono modules?

Dual mono modules are two independent mono modules that are physically grouped together.   The major benefit is DSP efficiency as they use only about half as much DSP as two separate equivalent mono modules.  Note, dual mono modules are not available in the 8×8 DSP.

How does the Automation Control Interface work on the 6000 Broadcast Audio Delay and 6100 Broadcast Audio Delay?

The 6000 and 6100 have four internal relays that may be independently used to control station automation events. The relay closures (outputs) are triggered by input closures that can be either manual (a momentary switch closure) or electrical (TTL logic low). When an input closure takes place the audio entering the delay at that moment is ‘tagged’. When the tagged audio reaches the output of the delay its corresponding relay closes for a time equal to the length of the input closure.

Will the 2 Line Analog Telephone Interface Card send the caller I.D. info to a 3rd party control system?

Yes, see the SSYSS and GSYSS commands in the SymNet Composer External Control Protocol.

What kind of cable do I use to hook up the Analog Control Inputs?

Standard two-conductor shielded twisted pair.

What do the DIP switches on the back of hardware do?

DIP switches determine the Ring and Address of the unit, whether the unit is a Master or a Slave, and what the baud rate is for host computer serial communication.

Where can I find a Data Sheet for the 610 Broadcast Audio Delay?

How do I convert my Jupiter unit to be used with 117/220 volt?

Symetrix Jupiter products use an automatically switching external power supply.  Simply use the power cable that fits your region’s AC plug type, and the unit will automatically switch to that voltage.

Why does my 610 system level change when I switch between Operate and Bypass?

A few users are surprised with large gain increases when they install the 610 into their audio chain. Here’s why.

The 610 uses a balanced, bridging input. It does not present a 600-ohm load to the output of the device which drives the 610’s input. In other words, your console output is not loaded by 600 ohms when the 610 is in the circuit and operating.

When the 610 is in the bypass mode, a relay connects the output connectors to the input connectors. This is a “hardwire” bypass, a copper path between input and output. This means that when the 610 is in the bypass mode, the console output sees the load of the input circuit of the device connected to the 610’s output connectors. Your console output connects directly to the input of your audio processor anytime that the 610 is not in delay.

If the audio processor input presents a 600-ohm load to the console output, the 610 will remove the load to the console output when it goes on-line. Because the console output is no longer connected to a 600-ohm load, its output signal may rise as much as 6 dB, depending upon the output circuitry.

This level increase will pass through the 610. The input of the audio processor will receive a signal which is 7 dB hotter than when the 610 is in the bypass mode. This is because of the 6 dB gain change caused by removal of the 600-ohm load, plus a 1 dB gain increase inside the 610. We use a heavy duty output driver in the 610. It is able to supply the same output level to either a bridging input (high impedance) or a 600-ohm load. The 610’s output does not drop when it is loaded with 600 ohms. The output drivers of some equipment are not this robust.

Where can I find Schematics for a 528 Voice Processor?

528 Schematics

Note, this schematic is for the original 528 processor, not the subsequently released 528E.

Can I sync to the AES inputs on the ADA8824 (ADAT) 24-bit Eight Channel A/D-D/A Converter?

The 8824’s A/Ds can be synchronized to the first 3 AES3 inputs, and also the S/PDIF input. Simply connect a valid AES3 or S/PDIF signal to the desired input (24kHz-48kHz only), and select that input as the A/D Sync Source, using the dip switch (local mode) or configuration application (remote mode).

I just added up all the % numbers in the DSP modules I put in my design, and it doesn’t quite match what the DSP resource meter reads. Why?

The DSP resource percentage figure located on each Module is rounded to the nearest integer value. The DSP resource total meter (located below the toolkit) tallies the actual, non-rounded figure. In addition, hidden routing modules are added to move audio between DSPs. These routing modules take a small amount of DSP resources.

What is the minimum load impedance the 420 Stereo Power Amplifier can safely handle?

The minimum load impedance of the 420 is 4 Ohms in stereo or dual-mono mode and 8 Ohms in mono-bridged mode.

Where can I find a Data Sheet for the 302 Dual Microphone Preamplifier?

Why does my 6000/6100 show ‘64P’ on the display and is not operating?

The bypass is engaged and ‘BYP’ is commonly mistaken for ‘64P’ on the display.

How do I lengthen priority release time on the 450 Dual Zone Priority Mixer?

Increase the value of the following resistors for the appropriate priority:

Priority 1: R229 and R230
Priority 2: R321 and R322
Priority 3: R141 and R142

The amount of time increases in direct proportion to the amount that you increase the value of R229 and R230. For example, if you double the value of Priority 1’s R229 and R230 (from 536K to 1Meg – O.K., its approximately double), then the length of time for the muting circuit to release and allow signal from the lower priorities will also double (from 2-3 seconds to 4-6 seconds).

Can I upload the Designer Site File from SymNet hardware into my laptop/desktop computer?

Yes. SymNet’s archiving function, which is part of the Full Site Download (F4) operation, allows you to store and extract SymNet Site Files to and from the rack mounted hardware. Provided that hardware security is not enabled or you know the Supervisor password if it is, you can connect to the hardware with any version of SymNet Designer and open the Upgrade Firmware dialog in order to determine which version of SymNet Designer you should use to communicate with the hardware. Once that is known, you can upload the Site File from SymNet using the proper version of SymNet Designer.

Will phantom power damage my non-condenser microphones?

Generally no, some older ribbon microphones are somewhat susceptible, but it’s always a safe bet to disable phantom power when not needed.

Does the 4 Channel Analog Output Card have any level controls?

Yes, the 4 Channel Analog Output Card has a gain fader with a range from Off to +12dB.

Can I purchase parts factory direct if I’m not an authorized Symetrix dealer?

Some parts can be purchased factory direct using a credit card.  For more information have your unit’s serial number handy and contact Symetrix at support@symetrix.co or call +1 425 778 7728.

Why is my 302 so noisy?

If you’re going directly to line level inputs of a recording device as suggested chances are it’s coming from the microphone’s internal capsule pre-amp, some of the older microphones sought after for their character and warmth especially the tube versions have rather noisy electronics. Check input signal level. The input signal may be too low. If so, boost the incoming signal (if possible) or move your mic closer to the signal source. Obviously drum over-heads will need a lot less gain than an acoustic guitar.

Where can I find a schematic for the 528E Voice Processor?

In order to choose the correct schematic for your particular 528E unit, you will need to derive both the unit revision and the manufactured date from the serial number of the unit. This number always begins with the number “80”, and will be on a sticker on the bottom of the 528E.

Depending on the age of the unit, this number could appear in a couple of possible formats. This is a key detail, as schematics are not available for current serial numbers.

Current Serial Numbers:
Current units have serial numbers in the following format:

120V version: 80-4528EANA0912176
230V version:  80-4528EAEU0912176

The presence of a hyphen and either “NA” or “EU” in the serial number are both indicators that this is a current serial number.

If you need repairs for current serial numbers, please contact Symetrix Support at support@symetrix.co.

Old Serial Numbers:
Older units have serial numbers that appear without a hyphen, and will have the manufacture date printed on the sticker.

Example: 800528E0B0854

The unit revision is shown by the two characters following the model number (800528E). In the example above, the “0B” points to a Revision B unit.

The manufacture date for older units can appear in a couple of different date formats. One may see a more typical date format (e.g. 09/19/05), or perhaps a format as shown in the picture below. In this example, the year is first – so the manufacture date is May 7, 2008.

image004

Once the unit revision and manufacture date have been established, download the relevant schematic from among the links below.

528E_A00 (1995) Schematic
528E_D1 (1996) Schematic
528E_D02 (1996) Schematic
528E_D03 (1996) Schematic
528E_B00 (1997) Schematic
528E_B01 (1998) Schematic
528E_1C00 (1999) Schematic
528E_1D01 (2002) Schematic
528E_1D02 (2007) Schematic

Where can I find a Flow Chart for the 533E Graphic Equalizer?

How do the SSG192 High Definition Studio Sync Generator and Lucid Distribution boxes fit into a modern studio setup?

There are a variety of scenarios where the combination of one or more of these products will improve or even stabilize the performance of a modern digital recording/editing system. Some examples are:

Simple digital audio setup – GENx6 will generate word or superclock through its 6 outputs to synchronize multiple generic or Digidesign devices (either/or, not both simultaneously).

Post production – the SSG 192 functions as the master timing reference for a video editing suite where digital audio needs to be integrated into and resolved to the video. It delivers video sync to VTRs and non-linear editors, word clock to digital audio devices, and superclock to Digidesign products. It can also reference to incoming blackburst from video gear.

Audio recording – the SSG delivers word clock and superclock to the appropriate digital audio devices. It can be configured via internal jumpers to provide 3 word and 3 superclock outputs simultaneously. The most direct and reliable solution for a scenario that includes Pro Tools and other digital audio gear in the same system. A alternative solution would be to use 2 GENx6 units sync’d to each other with one generating word clock and the other generating superclock. Less expensive than a single SSG.

Multiroom facility – the SSG provides audio sync via AES11 output (audio equivalent of blackburst) that is stable down a long cable run (200+ feet). CLKx6 or GENx6 can receive the AES sync and distribute it as word clock or superclock to the local rack. AESx4 can be placed in between the SSG and distribution boxes to create up to 4 streams to address 4 separate rooms. SSG has 2 AES outputs for 8 possible sync streams from 2 AESx4 units, to 8 CLKx6 or GENx6, to 48 peripheral devices.

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I have placed the SymNet CobraNet firmware upgrade files in the specified location, but Disco still can not see them?

If Disco does not find the CobraNet firmware file you require, you will need to exit Disco and then edit the “CNDisco.exe.Config” file.

This file will typically be located at: C:Cirrus LogicCobraNet Discovery.

Find “CNDisco.exe.Config” then open it using Notepad.

Locate the line:

“<Advanced Feature = 0>”

Change the value to “1”

Then Save-As.  Save as type: All Files.  Save directly over the top of the original: CNDisco.exe.Config.  Do not let it save as a text document, which requires retyping the name “CNDisco.exe.Config”.

Launch Disco to try again.  If done properly you will see additional options allowing you to “show all firmware versions.”

Is it possible to control multiple 628's with only one RC-1 remote control?

Connect the MIDI OUT of the RC-1 to the MIDI/RC-1 input of the first 628.
Connect the MIDI OUT/THRU output of the first 628 to the MIDI/RC-1 input of the second 628, and so on.

Where can I find a User's Guide for the 303 Interface Amplifier (Bi-directional)?

What do I do if I'm experiencing distortion on the mic inputs of the 460 Presentation Audio Mixer?

Lower the gain settings for inputs 1 & 2 using the DIP switches. (Applicable only to inputs 1 & 2).

TI-101 Telephone Interface won't hold the phone line open.

It was not designed to. The TI-101 requires a telephone holding coil wired in parallel with the telephone input connections. Use a Microtran T4415. It is a choke rated at 2.0 Henrys @ 60 mA, with a DC resistance of 180 ohms. You will also need to add a switch in series with the holding coil in order to drop the line when you are ready to release the it.

Where can I find a Data Sheet for the 551E Five Band Parametric EQ or 552E Dual Five Band Parametric EQ?

How do I know what COM port my USB to serial adapter is using?

See your PC’s Device Manager.

Right-click My Computer > Manage > System Tools > Device Manager > Ports (COM & LPT).

How do I use an external Word Clock with the ADA8824 (ADAT) 24-bit Eight Channel A/D-D/A Converter?

Connect the external Word Clock signal to the Word Clock input. If the cable run is longer than approx 6ft, external 75ohm termination is required (it is recommended at all times). Then, simply set the A/D sync source to “Word Clock” using either the dip switches (local mode), or the PC or Mac configuration application. The Word Clock frequency range is approx. 22kHz-48kHz.

How do I upgrade CobraNet firmware?

CobraNet firmware is managed using the CobraNet Disco software utility.  Download at www.cobranet.info.

What can I do about RF interference in my 528E Voice Processor?

For AM interference, replace the ferrite beads, FB1 and FB2, with 470 mH chokes.
Replace the ferrite beads with an EMI filter, Symetrix part number 150005.

Where can I find a Data Sheet for the 422 Stereo AGC-Leveler?

Where can I find a User's Guide for the 571 SPL Computer?

Where can I find AutoCAD files for the 422 Stereo AGC Leveler?

How do I program SymNet to work with the Analog Control Inputs in Designer? For instance, I’d like to use a 10k rotary potentiometer as simple zone volume control.

You can link almost any DSP module parameter to one of the Analog Control Input ports on the rear panel. Just right click on the fader, button, etc and choose “Assign Controller”. This launches a dialogue box that steps you through the short process of creating a parameter-control link.

Where can I find a Flow Chart for the 303 Interface Amplifier (Bi-directional)?

How much latency is there in a SymNet SymLink system?

This question has a three part answer since the digital signal path through a SymNet system has three different major components.

Converter delay: Approximately 850 microseconds for the AD, and 624 microseconds for the DA.
One DSP core: Maximum delay through any given 8×8 DSP core is approximately 240 microseconds, though typically it will be much lower. The max delay through the DSP core of an 8in or 8out is 120 microseconds.

SymLink: Approximately 80 microseconds for an audio signal to travel, via SymLink, from the DSP core of one 8×8 to the unit immediately downstream. If there are any units in between, add an additional 80 microseconds for each SymNet DSP, 20 microseconds for each CobraLink and 20 microseconds for each BreakIn12 and BreakOut12.

In summary: The typical delay for a signal that goes into an analog input on an 8×8, and exits from an analog output on the same 8×8 is usually around 1.5 milliseconds.

How do I control SymNet Designer's Speaker Management modules with SmaartLive?

Depending upon the version of SmaartLive you are currently using, the necessary support files may or may not be already installed on your hard drive. The required files are included with the SymNet Designer 7.x installer, or you may download them separately below..

SymNetSmaart Plug In

Where can I find Schematics for the 565E Dual Compressor / Limiter / Expander?

In a multi-box system, which DSP do ARCs connect to?

Generally connect ARCs to the Master unit so that data will be disseminated to all units in the system.  ARCs can be connected to Slave devices but control will be limited to parameters contained within that Slave device.

Can you add security to the Deuce 722?

Adding security to a Deuce 722 can be accomplished with a special IP setting which limits the discovery process.  Learn more in this Tech Tip:

Tech Tip: Deuce 722 Security

Where can I find a User's Guide for the 565E Dual Compressor / Limiter / Expander?

Where can I find the latest CM-1 module firmware for the CobraLink?

The firmware upgrade listed below is provided to address bugs in or provide added features to the CobraLinkCobraNet module (CM-1). In order to support new features available in SymNet Designer 5.0 or later, your CobraLink hardware may require updated Cobra Interface Firmware.

Please see the associated ReadMe.txt file contained within the ZIP archive offered below for instructions on how to upgrade your CobraLink Cobra Interface Firmware. 2.9.6 or later is required for low latency and 24-bit bundle support in SymNet Designer 5.0 or later.

CobraLink CM-1 Firmware 2.9.16 / 2.21.10

What direction is ARC-Audio sent?

One channel of audio can be sent either way.

Will Control I/O work on its own with AMX or Crestron type control systems?

Yes. The Control I/O can work in a stand-alone ASCII control mode accepting commands from an AMX or Crestron type system. Refer to the Quick Start Guide for further info.

Is there a replacement for the Room Combine 788?

The Radius 12×8 can be used as a replacement for the Room Combine 788.  To help speed up the design process in SymNet Composer, download the Radius 12×8 Room Combine 788 Clone App.

What is the RS-232 pinout on my Symetrix manufactured product?

All Symetrix manufactured products with RS-232 ports have them wired straight-through. Only pins 2, 3 and 5 are required. If you want to make your own cable, refer to the RS-232 standard below:

RS-232 Standard Configuration: The following table documents the pin assignments for the RS-232 standard using DB9 and DB25 connectors. Following the table is a set of diagrams to assist in identifying what pin numbers are assigned to each pin inside the different connectors.

The RS-232 standard:

DB-25 DCE DB-9      
1     AA x Protective Ground
2 TXD 3 BA I Transmitted Data
3 RXD 2 BB O Received Data
4 RTS 7 CA I Request To Send
5 CTS 8 CB O Clear To Send
6 DSR 6 CC O Data Set Ready
7 GND 5 AB x Signal Ground
8 CD 1 CF O Received Line Signal Detector
9     x Reserved for data set testing
10     x Reserved for data set testing
11       x Unassigned
12 SCF     O Secondary Received Line Signal Detector
13 SCB     O Secondary Clear to Send
14 SBA     I Secondary Transmitted Data
15 DB     O Transmission Signal Element Timing
16 SBB     O Secondary Received Data
17 DD     O Receiver Signal Element Timing
18       x Unassigned
19 SCA     I Secondary Request to Send
20 DTR 4 CD I Data Terminal Ready
21 CG     O Signal Quality Detector
22   9 CE O Ring Indicator
23 CH/CI     I/O Data Signal Rate Selector
24 DA     I Transmit Signal Element Timing
25       x Unassigned

Where is Pin 1?

25 pin DB25 Male Connector: Image

25 pin DB25 Female Connector: Image

9 pin DB89 Male Connector: Image

Do Edge Frames, when Dante is daisy chained, need to be looped back into a ring configuration like SymLink?

Edge units are daisy chained, and not a ring configuration. In an Edge system the last unit should not be connected directly to the first unit, rather just daisy chaining them creates the entire Dante network, as each Dante port is truly its own Gigabit network switch.

How do I know if my Symetrix product is still factory supported?

should be “Symetrix attempts to support products up to 7 years from the manufactured date. This is based on replacement component availability, and is not guaranteed. For support status on your product, contact Support with your serial number. You can e-mail support@symetrix.co or call +1 425 778 7728 x5.”

Where can I find a Data Sheet for the 501 Peak-RMS Compressor / Limiter?

Where can I find a Data Sheet for the 9022 2x2 DSP Engine?

Where can I find a Flow Chart for the 420 Stereo Power Amplifier?

Can I build a custom control panel for my 6000/6100?

Yes.  See wiring and pinout information in the User’s Guide.

What distance can an ARC be from the host DSP?

The distance varies greatly depending on the type of ARC, the gauge of the cable, and the number of arcs chained together.  Download Link: ARC Power Calculator.

I need to replace a pot or switch on my 528E.

Spare or replacement pots and switches for the Symetrix 528E are available factory direct, (US only, international inquiries please contact the Symetrix distributor in your country).

Note the unit serial number contact Sales@symetrix.co.

How do I set up Deck II to work with the NB24 NuBus Computer I/O Card or PCI24 PCI Computer I/O Card?

Lucid Driver 1.06Lucid Driver 1.04 (NB), 1.06 (PCI)

1. Disk cache set to 32k (NB), 96K (PCI) in the memory control panel.
2. Virtual memory turned off.
3. Set Deck II preferred & Minimum memory to the suggested size.
4. Set the number of tracks to 4 (for starters).
5. Set memory per track to 192kb (NB), 512kb (PCI).
6. Make sure your using the Sound Control Panel (v8.0.3 or 8.0.5).

Where can I find a Flow Chart for the 531E Graphic Equalizer?

What is the default baud rate for host computer serial connection?

115200.

Why is the Automation Control Interface and the TC-89 Clock Reader such a powerful combination of tools on the 6100 Broadcast Audio Delay?

As an example of how they are used together assume that a local talk show switches to syndicated network news every day at 12:00:00 (noon). Assume one of the 6100’s Automation Control Outputs controls a router that switches the air signal from the local studio audio to the network audio. A manual push button is wired to the 6100’s corresponding automation control relay. The air talent views the ESE clock displaying TID (time in delay which is real time plus the amount of delay added by the 6100). At 11:59:00 (TID) the air talent ends his sentence and presses the designated push button. The audio built up in the 6100 continues to play out until 11:59:00 (real time) at which time the relay closes and switches from local audio to network audio. The powerful combination of 6100, TC-89 master clock generator and TC-89 time clock reader allow the air talent to make a perfect transition from delay audio to real time without the need for manual time calculations.

Where can I find a Data Sheet for the 6000 Broadcast Audio Delay?

If an AEC source is routed through the SymNet 4 Channel AEC Card module’s Aux In, can the analog input still be used?

Yes, the AEC source will come out of the AEC# output on the AEC Ins module minus any echo. The analog input will come out of the Direct# output of the AEC Ins module.

How should I set the mic gain on the 528E Voice Processor?

Set all processing sections to the BYPASS mode.
Set the OUTPUT LEVEL control to “0” dB.
Adjust the MIC GAIN to provide peaks of “0” dB on the OUTPUT LEVEL meter. The CLIP LED should not flash during normal use.

What is the CobraLink?

The CobraLink is a bridge processor that allows CobraNet and SymLink to communicate directly.  The CobraLink also adds Ethernet communication capability to a SymLink Ring.

The limiter on the 421m AGC-Leveler and 422 Stereo AGC-Leveler makes things sound "squashed".

Set the Limiter THRESHOLD control so that the LIMITER LED just flashes occasionally, on peaks in the music. If you need more leveling action, turn the RATIO control up to 4:1 or higher.

Where can I find a User's Guide for the 581E Distribution Amplifier (4x4)?

Where can I find Windows or Mac OS software to remotely configure the ADA8824 (ADAT) 24-bit Eight Channel A/D-D/A Converter?

The optional configuration utility for the ADA8824 (ADAT) which runs on a Macintosh computer (Classic OS) or Windows PC, found below, is used to configure the ADA8824 (ADAT) via MIDI.

Note: There is no version of the Configuration Applet for Mac OS X and there will not be. This Applet is optional, the ADA8824 (ADAT) can be fully configured via the DIP switches on the rear of the unit. Refer to the User’s Guide for more information

.ADA8824 (ADAT) Config – Mac OS Classic

ADA8824 (ADAT) Config – Windows

Where can I find a Flow Chart for the 528E Voice Processor?

Where can I find a Flow Chart for the 440 Foreground Audio Controller?

Where can I find a Flow Chart for the 551E Five Band Parametric EQ?

What is the latency of a Symetrix 322 DSP Engine?

Depending on the active DSP modules programmed into the signal path, the latency from analog-in to analog-out will be approximately between 1.7 milliseconds and 6.5 milliseconds.

Why is there no word clock input on the 4 Channel Digital Input Card?

Word clock is embedded into both AES/EBU spdif, so no word clock input is needed.

Does the Radius 12x8 support using one of the SymNet I/O cards?

No, the Radius 12×8 is fixed I/O and does not have an optional card slot.  The Radius AEC will support a SymNet I/O card.

How do I convert the line level output of the 628 Digital Voice Processor to mic level?

Unplug all connectors from the 628 and remove it from the rack.
Remove the top cover. Don’t forget the two allen head screws on the front panel.
Locate the ANALOG OUTPUT XLR connectors on the rear panel.
Depending upon the vintage of your 628, you’ll find one of two options:
A) 2 jumper sets of 2 each (J6, J7 and J10, J11) or,
B) 2 jumper sets of 3 each (J4, J5, J7 and J9, J10, J12).

If your 628 matches option A, then move both jumpers next to the output connector which you want to convert to microphone level rearward to the jumper pins closest to the XLR connector.

If your 628 matches option B, find the 3 jumpers nearest the XLR connector that you want to convert to microphone level. Move the left jumper (J4 or J10) so that it connects the two jumper pins furthest to the right. Move the right jumper (J7 or J12) so that it connects the two jumper pins furthest to the left. Now insure that the remaining jumper (J5 or J9) is in a rearward position that connects the two jumper pins nearest the XLR connector.

Replace the top cover and all retaining screws.
Reinstall the 628 in your rack.
Connect the power and audio cables

Is it possible to use the AEC in a Radius AEC to apply echo cancelling to a Dante enabled mic?

Yes, any source can be routed through the AEC algorithm using the AUX In module, this includes audio received from a Dante flow.

Where can I find a Quick Start Guide for the Modular ARCs (ARC-K1, ARC-SW4, ARC-SWK, ARC-XLR, ARC-MIC, ARC-EXK and ARC-EX4)?

Can the xControl be powered from a Control I/O power supply?

No, the power supply for the legacy Control I/O is not compatible with the xControl.  A POE injector ships with the xControl.

Are Crestron modules available for the Symetrix Zone Mix 760 and Zone Mix 761?

The following archive contains Crestron modules for the most commonly controlled functions of the Zone Mix 760:

Zone Mix 760 Crestron Modules

Zone Mix 761 Crestron Modules

761 Demo SIMPL Program

Examples provided include Volume, Mute, and Paging control. The modules will work with all Zone Mix 760’s via UDP/IP or RS-232 (on applicable 760’s). The modules are fully documented by the Zone Mix 760 Integrator Series Control Protocol Crestron Module Addendum linked here: Zone Mix 760 Integrator Series Control Protocol Crestron Module Addendum

See Also: Integrator Series External Control Protocol

The Symetrix, Inc. product warranty does not apply to this archive or the files contained within.

Third Party Product Disclaimer – From time to time we test the compatibility of our own products with those of third parties. While we are happy to share with our customers the results of our own studies as well as other (possibly unsubstantiated) information regarding these third party products, it is the policy of Symetrix, Inc. to neither endorse, recommend nor support products manufactured and/or supplied by third parties. The responsibility of choosing third party products which are compatible with Symetrix products rests solely with the qualified contractor, consultant or system designer.

In recognition of the relative risks and benefits to both the Integrator and SYMETRIX, INC, any recommendation or suggestion relating to the use of the Products made by SYMETRIX, INC or any other manufacturer either in technical literature or in response to a specific inquiry or otherwise, is given in good faith. HOWEVER, it is for the Integrator to satisfy himself that the Products are fit for the purpose of being utilized by a Consumer as the end-user of the Products. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SYMETRIX, INC is not liable for any and all claims, losses, costs, or unforeseen damages of any nature whatsoever. It is intended that this limitation apply to any and all liability or cause of action however alleged or arising, unless otherwise prohibited by law.

How do I place AGC ahead of the Automixer DSP module Designer?

AGC and Automixing
It is often desirable to place dynamic processors such as Compressors and Automatic Gain Control (AGC) ahead of the Automixer DSP module however; this presents a small technical issue. Automixers determine which channels are active by discriminating between the differences in each channel’s signal level. Compressors or AGCs effectively minimize the differences between each channel’s signal level. This tech tip illustrates the recommended use of dynamic processing after an Automixer module.

Wiring and Module Layout
This example requires a single AGC module attached to the Mix out of the Automixer. The AGC Ctrl (control) output wires to the VCA Control input. (The VCA module is located in the Mixer and Matrixes section of the SymNet Designer toolkit). The VCA audio inputs are connected to the channel outputs of the Automixer. The VCA audio output is wired to a Matrix module to create mix-minus feeds for zones. Prior to the AGC is an Expander/Gate module that is used to remove the noise floor of the channel outputs as necessary.

Example 1 Image

VCA Max Gain Compensation
There is one more consideration; the VCA has a Max Gain parameter. Different dynamic processors send out different control signal levels so the Max Gain parameter is used to compensate for any differences. When using the AGC module in this fashion, the Max Gain needs to be at +36 dB.

Example 2 Image

More information on this subject is located in the SymNet help file. Within the Dynamics section, there is a heading titled “Creating Multi-channel Dynamics Modules” which discusses the VCA output settings for various Dynamic processors.

The intent of this design is to flatten out the mics so that soft and loud voices come out the speakers at the same volume. Many will argue that dynamics should be wired prior to the Automixer. However, this design serves to conserve DSP resources as well as allow the Automixer to do its job as designed. Give it try; you may be surprised with the results.

The Radius AEC is a 12x8, do all 12 inputs have AEC?

No, the Radius AEC has 8 mic/line AEC inputs and 4 line level inputs.  For 12 channels of AEC in a Radius AEC the optional card slot will support the 4 Channel AEC Input Card.

Does the SymNet Analog Input Card have full 48 v phantom power on all inputs?

Yes, all SymNet card inputs (analog or AEC) have full 48 v phantom power.

Where can I find a Data Sheet for the 581E Distribution Amplifier (4x4)?

Where can I find a Flow Chart for a 422 Stereo AGC-Leveler?

Does a Edge frame have enough processing for to support a xIn 12 or xOut 12?

Absolutely, the Edge has enough processing to support two xIO devices in most cases.  In heavy laden DSP applications, it may be preferable to use only one xIO per Edge.

How much processing does an Edge frame contain?

An Edge frame utilizes a 400Mhz SHARC processor for DSP.

What is the maximum recommended length of a HomerLink cable?

100 meters is the longest recommended cable length.

I receive a ‘Component transfer error’ when attempting to uninstall SymNet Designer 9.0 or higher.

If you have installed multiple versions of SymNet Designer using the ‘Repair’ option, there is a possibility the uninstall utility will encounter difficulties when trying to remove all associated files.

Start the uninstall process again from the Control Panel using Add or Remove Programs (XP)/Uninstall or change a program (Vista).  If the error is encountered, repeat uninstall process until the utility completes without error.

Verify uninstall by making sure the following folders were removed:

Registry entry:  HKEY_CURRENT_USERSoftwareSymetrixSymNet Designer 9.0

In My Documents:  My DocumentsSymNet Designer 9.0

Why are there no LEDs illuminated under LOCK on the front panel of my GENx6-96?

These LEDs are only active when the GENx6 (or GENx6-96) is set to receive a clock input from an external source (AES, Word Clock or Superclock). With the SOURCE switch in the down position EXT and the EXTERNAL switch set to the desired source (AES, Word Clock or Superclock), the LEDs will indicate that the GENx6 (GENx6-96) has locked to an external clock input. When the outputs are internally generated none of the LOCK LEDs are lit.

528E Voice Processor settings tutorial.

Get the Perfect Settings for Your 528E Voice Processor
The 528E is one of the most complete and versatile Voice Processors on the market today. The ability to tune the timbre and quality of your voice is essential in creating the kind of quality production and/or on-air product that your listeners demand and deserve. Getting the perfect settings to work for your specific application will take a little practice and experimentation. So, to get you up and running as quickly as possible here’s a brief tutorial to get the most out of your 528E Voice Processor.

We strongly encourage you to read the 528E Voice Processor User’s Guide because it’s filled with a lot of useful information about getting the most out of your microphone and your voice. If you can’t find yours anywhere around the station, feel free to download a copy.

Initial Settings

With all hardware connections made, and the 528E powered on (LED displays activity), set the controls and switches on the front panel as shown.

528E starting settings

Red marked X indicates that button is pushed IN.

Mic Preamp Gain

Push out the DE-ESS, EXP/COMP, and the EQ buttons into bypass mode.

Set the MIC GAIN control so that the CLIP LED should almost never illuminate.

De-esser Settings

To reduce the level of sibilant sounds (S and T sounds)

Set the THRESHOLD control to show about 12 dB of gain reduction.

Adjust the FREQUENCY control for maximum sibilance reduction.

Decrease the THRESHOLD setting until you reduce the sibilance to a tolerable level.

Downward Expander Settings

To reduce room noise and/or mouth noises

Set the THRESHOLD control to allow low-level speech sounds to pass while still blocking the room sound.

Compressor Settings

To vary the amount of gain reduction

3 to 6 dB is sufficient unless you are using a low compression ratio (below 2:1), or you want a special effect. Choose a ratio suited to the task at hand:

Low level ratios and low thresholds for unobtrusive level control.

Medium ratios for overall level control and consistency.

High ratios (>8:1) for limiting or ‘in-your-face’ sorts of sounds.

Equalizer Settings

The initial settings work well with male voices.

For women

Increase low-EQ range to 200 or 300 Hz.

Increase mid-EQ range to 3 to 5 kHz.

If you are using a mic that exhibits proximity effect when close-micing

Decrease (cut) the bass (low) response somewhat. 3 to 6 dB should be fine (don’t do this if you want a big, ballsy sound).

Some mid-EQ helps make voices cut and seem loud.

High-EQ adds brightness and intimacy.

If you are using a mic that has no proximity effect when close-micing

Increase (boost) the bass response somewhat. 3 to 6 dB should do the job.

Some mid-EQ helps make voices cut and seem loud.

High-EQ adds brightness and intimacy.

Output Settings

For many applications, the output GAIN control at 0 dB works fine.

Push in the buttons for DE-ESSER, EXP/COMP, and EQ.

If you increased the EQ, then you may need to increase GAIN.

If you increased compression, you may need to increase GAIN.

Choose a setting that gives you enough signal downstream, yet keeps the CLIP LED from illuminating.

The output CLIP LED monitors both the EQ and the output stage. Large amounts of boost and /or high level signals can cause CLIP indications. If this occurs, lower the signal level by adjusting the GAIN control.

It is also possible for the output stage to clip if a processor, inserted using the output stage access jacks, is contributing gain to the overall signal path. In this case, either lower the gain of the insert processor or decrease the setting of the GAIN control.

Can the 2 Line Analog Telephone Interface Card auto pickup phone calls?

Auto answer has three settings: Off, 2 Rings, and 4 Rings.

Is the 302 distorting when the clip light is on?

Yes and no, the CLIP LED lights when the signal reaches 3dB below clipping. This LED should never be on solidly. It is usually all right if the CLIP LED flashes occasionally, on peaks in the program material. If you see the CLIP LED light, monitor your final signal destination to be sure that you are not creating distortion by running audio levels that are too hot.

Where can I download archived versions of Composer software?

Archived versions of all final public releases of Composer software are listed in the table below. The software runs on a Windows PC and is used to configure, design, and control Composer-based products. For new designs we highly recommend using the latest version of Composer, however archived major release versions can be found below for legacy compatibility and/or troubleshooting requirements. All firmware files are included as part of the downloaded Composer software package. The Composer firmware versions and Dante Kernels listed below are to help in cross-referencing the firmware running on the installed DSP(s) with the corresponding version of Composer that should be downloaded.

To communicate with Symetrix hardware from a given version of Composer, it may be necessary to upgrade (or downgrade) firmware in each hardware device. This can be done directly from the Composer application and only takes a few minutes per device. Firmware upgrade is done from the Composer Hardware menu.

Composer Version Composer Firmware Dante Kernel Release Notes SymVue Version
1.06 1.026 3.5.3 1.06 N/A
1.23 1.216 3.6.4 1.23 1.23
2.03 2.013 3.6.4 2.03 2.03
2.51 2.502 3.6.4 2.51 2.51
3.02 3.007 3.7.3 3.02 3.02
4 4.002 3.7.3 4 4
4.1 4.100 3.7.3 4.1 4.1
5.01 5.002 3.7.3 5.01 5.01
5.1 5.100 3.7.3 5.1 5.1
5.2 5.201 3.7.3 5.2 5.2
5.3 5.301 3.7.3 5.3 5.3
5.4 5.400 3.7.3 5.4 5.4
5.41 5.404 3.7.3 5.41 5.41
5.5 5.500 3.7.3 5.5 5.5
5.6 5.605 3.7.3 5.6 5.6
6.0.2.33 6.0.0.26 4.0.7 6 6
7.0.2.43 7.0.0.31 4.0.7 7 7
7.1.2.46 7.1.2.37 4.0.7 7.1 7.1
7.2 7.2.0.30 4.0.7 7.2 7.2
7.2.5 7.2.5.40 4.0.7 7.2.5 7.2.5
7.3 7.3.0.55 4.0.7 7.3 7.3
7.3.1 *see release notes 7.3.0.57 4.0.7 7.3.1 7.3.1
8.0.5 8.0.5 4.0.7 8.0.5 8.0.5
8.1 8.1 4.0.7 8.1 8.1
8.1.1 8.1.1 4.0.7 8.1.1 8.1.1
8.2 8.2 4.0.7 8.2 8.2
8.2.1 8.2.1 4.0.7 8.2.1 8.2.1
8.3 8.3 4.0.7 8.3 8.3
8.3.1 8.3 4.0.7 8.3.1 8.3.1
8.3.2 8.3.2 4.0.7 8.3.2 8.3.2
8.3.3 8.3.3 4.0.7 8.3.3 8.3.3
8.4 8.4 4.2 8.4 8.4
8.4.1 8.4.1 4.2 8.4.1 8.4.1
8.4.2 8.4.2 4.2 8.4.2 8.4.2

Where can I find a Flow Chart for the 9022 2x2 DSP Engine?

Where can I find a Data Sheet for the 527E Voice Processor?

How do I force the 572 SPL Computer to sample the ambient noise level?

Quickly turn the SAMPLE INTERVAL control first in one direction, then the other direction, returning it to its original position.

Where can I find a Data Sheet for my Voice Processor 2x?

How do you downgrade a SymNet Designer system?

Going backwards: Restoring to previous versions of Firmware, in other words downgrading. When traveling back in time and reverting to a previous version of SymNet Designer, there are a few gotchas to be aware of:

First… Turn off All Amplifiers! You’re upgrading (or in this case, downgrading) an entire audio system! Murphy’s Law always applies – anything can happen and will happen. Do not turn on the amps until you are sure all software changes/reconfigurations are finished and successful. Then, it is suggested that you turn the amps down and ease them up. An ounce of precaution is worth a pound of cure. Also, in later versions of SymNet Designer (version 3.5 or higher), the volume will ramp up after a Site file is downloaded according to a time setting in the Preferences dialog box located in the File pull-down menu. Set this for a long ramp up period. If there is distortion, feedback or unintended routing in the system, it will ramp up slowly and give you time to react. Consider yourself warned.

Next, you need to downgrade the system in reverse order. So, you must start with the highest numbered device address in a ring and work backwards in decending address order. If you change the Master unit to a previous version first (i.e. the first unit in a SymNet Ring), you will not be able to address the Slave units through the SymLink bus. If this happens, you have 2 options:
Change the Master unit back to the “more recent” version and then begin the firmware downgrade process again starting with the last unit.

Disconnect the SymLink connections from all units. Change the DIP switches on the back of the slave units to make them a master unit and change all their addresses to ID #1. Then, connect to the front panel of each unit individually and perform the upgrade (downgrade). Finally, reconfigure the DIP switches to their original settings, re-patch the SymLink bus and re-power the system.

Make sure you have an older version of the SymNet Site File! This is important, as when you double click on a SymNet file, Windows will launch the Site File with the last version of SymNet Designer software installed, not the older version, and your Site File will be loaded into it. If Auto Save is turned on (Go to the File pull-down menu and select Preferences to see the Auto Save Enable setting) in the newer version and it executes a Save, then you have essentially upgraded your Site File. Now it will not open in the earlier version. It is best to have a copy that is saved in the previous version that has not been opened in the newer version.

For more information on upgrading SymNet systems, see the ReadMe file that accompanies every software release.

Can the xIn 12 be used to send Dante digital audio to a 3rd party Dante enabled device?

Yes, but a SymNet DSP must be present to setup and program the xIn 12. Once programmed the xIn 12 can transmit the Dante audio to any Dante enabled device.

Does the Radius 12x8 have a redundant power supply?

No, the Edge frame is the only frame with redundant power options; however, all SymNet Dante enabled DSP hardware has redundant Dante and control ports.

Where can I find Schematics for the 104A Multi-line Telephone Interface?

What kind of cable do I need to use for digital audio over AES / EBU inputs and outputs?

All AES / EBU inputs and outputs need a 110 Ohm twisted pair AES / EBU cable. You should not / can not use a standard microphone cable for digital audio!

Why do the DSP delay modules in SymNet Designer require so little DSP resource?

The actual delay memory is a handled outside of the SHARC DSP chips – by fast synchronous DRAM chips that can be accessed extremely quickly by the DSP. This greatly reduces the ‘load’ on the DSP core.

Are Crestron modules available for the 460 Presentation Audio Mixer?

Crestron has provided Symetrix and its user base this archive for the benefit of SymNet and Crestron developers.

Should you have any comments, questions or problems with the files contained in this archive, please contact Crestron Technical Support.

Symetrix, Inc. does not warrant or support this archive or the files contained within.

Third Party Product Disclaimer – From time to time we test the compatibility of our own products with those of third parties. While we are happy to share with our customers the results of our own studies as well as other (possibly unsubstantiated) information regarding these third party products, it is the policy of Symetrix, Inc. to neither endorse, recommend nor support products manufactured and/or supplied by third parties. The responsibility of choosing third party products which are compatible with Symetrix products rests solely with the qualified contractor, consultant or system designer.

In recognition of the relative risks and benefits to both the Integrator and SYMETRIX, INC, any recommendation or suggestion relating to the use of the Products made by SYMETRIX, INC or any other manufacturer either in technical literature or in response to a specific inquiry or otherwise, is given in good faith. HOWEVER, it is for the Integrator to satisfy himself that the Products are fit for the purpose of being utilized by a Consumer as the end-user of the Products. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SYMETRIX, INC is not liable for any and all claims, losses, costs, or unforeseen damages of any nature whatsoever. It is intended that this limitation apply to any and all liability or cause of action however alleged or arising, unless otherwise prohibited by law.

460 Crestron Modules

My Integrator Series 760, 780 or 788 hardware is locking during boot-up.

If your Integrator Series 760, 780 or 788 hardware is locking during boot-up and you have a 3rd-party external controller connected (such as an AMX or Crestron), there is a possibility that the controller is sending commands before the DSP is fully booted, corrupting the boot process.

Power-cycle the Symetrix hardware, then delay all external controller commands at power-up approximately 15 seconds to ensure the DSP is fully booted before it receives any commands.

Units manufactured after August 2009 have a feature that will block uninitiated / unsolicited serial data from an external controller during boot up.  Also, units communicating to external controllers via UDP/IP (made before or after August 2009) are unaffected.

Where can I find a Flow Chart for the 308 VCA Volume Control / Loudness EQ?

Can I direct connect to Jupiter with a CAT-5 cable?

Yes, direct connection from your PC to Jupiter hardware is possible with a straight-through CAT-5 cable.

Where can I find the latest CM-2 interface firmware for the SymNet Express Cobra?

The firmware upgrade listed below is provided to address bugs in or provide added features to the Express Cobra’s CobraNet Interface (CM-2). Please see the associated ReadMe.txt file contained within the ZIP archive offered below for instructions on how to upgrade your Express Cobra Interface Firmware.

Express Cobra CM-2 Firmware 2.11.10

The output level of my early version 528E Voice Processor suddenly became very noisy. What can I do?

This pertains to the late revision 528 and early revision 528E manufactured between approximately 1993 and 1996.  The board will be a ‘through-hole’ assembly.

Turn the power off. Cut Jfets Q2 and Q3 out of the circuit.

Where can I find a Data Sheet for the 628 Digital Voice Processor?

Where can I find a User's Guide for the 501 Peak-RMS Compressor / Limiter?

What types of parameters can ARCs control?

ARCs are extremely flexible and can be assigned virtually any real-time parameters depending on what host DSP it is controlling.  Generally ARCs are used for volumes, buttons, and presets.

What is varispeed?

Any linear deviation in playback speed. The sample rate is affected because the playback is either sped up or slowed down. The applications are primarily for video and occur during format transfers either between PAL and NTSC, and/or film to video. The values are 4% and .1% and can be applied in a positive or negative direction. 4% is the difference between NTSC at 29.97 fps and PAL at 25 fps. The .1% value is often used during layback of audio to video.

How do I extend SymLink up to 200 feet?

SymLink is one of the fastest, easiest to use audio busses in the industry, but some integrators want to run SymLink cables longer than the maximum specified length of 10 meters. In the past it just wasn’t possible, but we are happy to announce that this is no longer the case — with a few stipulations.

First, let’s explore some background on SymLink. Put on your propeller caps for a quick cable lesson.

As you may know, SymLink uses standard STP (shielded twisted pair) CAT5 cable supporting up to 10 meters in length. Typical CAT5 cable, by design, has different twist lengths for each pair which means that each pair has a different physical length. This difference in length causes a signal delay difference from pair to pair which is known as skew. Excessive skew between the twisted pairs that carry data and the audio clock can cause a great deal of grief.

Fear not! Your friendly Symetrix engineers have found an alternative solution brought to us from the land of video, a cable that can increase the maximum SymLink cable length from 10 meters to 61 meters, or 200 feet worth of SymLink. Read on for the details…

We’ve tested a new low-skew cable manufactured by Belden, model number 7987. Designed for long distance video runs, Belden 7987 has extremely low skew. It is even available in Plenum-rated and Riser-rated versions. The Belden part number for the plenum-rated version is 7987P while the riser-rated version is 7987R.

To attain SymLink distances of 200 feet, three conditions must be met:

1. You need a cable with sufficiently low skew.

2. Since the Belden 7987 is an unshielded cable, particular attention needs to be paid to the ground potential between SymNet devices.*

3. Lastly, the quality of the RJ-45 connections must be perfect. Sloppy connections or slightly bent pins will reduce the achievable length.

*In our testing of a worst case scenario (one device floating and the other grounded), we measured a ~50 VAC (RMS, measured with multi-meter) mismatch between the devices. However, as soon as a SymLink cable was connected between them, even an unshielded cable, the ground difference was reduced to a few volts. While the SymLink transmitter/receiver chips have some built-in protection to prevent any damage, the long term effects of a large voltage differential between units is unknown at this time.

As always, your mileage may vary. While this revelation in cable technology has proven itself in our lab environment, we can not possibly test all of the unknowns one may encounter in a real-world installation. A little care to ensure that all devices are indeed grounded and all SymLink RJ-45 connections are tight should provide great reward.

Where can I download archived versions of the SymNet Designer software?

Archived versions of SymNet Designer (found below) run on a Windows PC and are used to configure, design and control the SymNet units. For new designs we highly recommend using the latest version of SymNet Designer, however archived major release versions can be found below for legacy compatibility and/or troubleshooting requirements.

To communicate with SymNet hardware from a given version of SymNet Designer, it may be necessary to upgrade (or downgrade) firmware in each SymNet hardware device. This can be done directly from the SymNet Designer application and only takes a few minutes per device. Firmware upgrade is done from the SymNet Designer Hardware menu.

SymNet Designer 1.01 Release Notes

SymNet Designer 1.01

SymNet Designer 1.15 Release Notes

SymNet Designer 1.15

SymNet Designer 1.21 Release Notes

SymNet Designer 1.21

SymNet Designer 2.02 Release Notes

SymNet Designer 2.02

SymNet Designer 3.04 Release Notes

SymNet Designer 3.04

SymNet Designer 3.52 Release Notes

SymNet Designer 3.52

SymNet Designer 4.02 Release Notes

SymNet Designer 4.02

SymNet Designer 5.00 Release Notes

SymNet Designer 5.00

SymNet Designer 5.53 Release Notes

SymNet Designer 5.53

SymNet Designer 6.02 Release Notes

SymNet Designer 6.02

SymNet Designer 7.03 Release Notes

SymNet Designer 7.03

SymNet Designer 8.01 Release Notes

SymNet Designer 8.01

SymNet Designer 9.0 Release Notes

SymNet Designer 9.0

SymNet Designer 9.13 Release Notes

SymNet Designer 9.13

SymNet Designer 10.07 Release Notes

SymNet Designer 10.07

Does the SymNet 4 Channel AEC Card contain a processor?

Yes, there is a 400Mhz SHARC processor on the AEC card itself.  This means there are no DSP resources used in Composer when utilizing AEC.

Is my Microsoft Vista operating system compatible with SymNet Designer 9.0 software?

The following Vista operating systems are officially supported for SymNet Designer 9.0 software:

Windows Vista Business – 32-bit OS installation only

Windows Vista Ultimate – 32-bit OS installation only

The following Vista operating systems are currently not supported for SymNet Designer 9.0 software:

Windows Vista 64-bit (any version)

The following Vista operating systems are not tested for SymNet Designer 9.0 software:

Windows Vista Home

Windows Vista Home Premium Edition

Although Windows Vista Home and Home Premium have not been tested by Symetrix Inc., there are currently no known issues with Vista Home and Home Premium 32-bit operating systems and SymNet Designer 9.0 software compared to the supported Windows Vista Business or Ultimate Edition operating systems.

Be sure you are running only latest version SymNet Designer software available at www.symetrix.co.

How can I see how much ambient level is being picked up by the speakers when the 572 Flow Chart is in "SENSE" mode?

Set OPTIONS switch “B” to the “UP” position. The 572’s GAIN (dB) LED’s will now display the level of ambient noise that is being picked up by the sensing speakers.

NOTE: This interrupts normal operation of the 572. Return OPTIONS switch “B” to the “DOWN” position, to restore normal operation of the 572.

What happens if a SymLink ring is interrupted due to a bad, or unplugged cable?

All units in the ring will continue to function but audio and control signals will not be transmitted across the gap nor will any control information be transferred “downstream” of the gap.

What kind of DSP is used in SymNet Express?

Express units use Analog Devices SHARC ADSP-21161 DSPs running at approx. 100MHz. These DSPs also feature the Single Instruction Multiple Data (SIMD) architecture which can effectively double their processing power for certain modules (e.g. stereo EQs). Each Express unit has two of these DSPs. The two DSPs can deliver a theoretical maximum combined total of 1180 MFLOPS (Mega Floating Point Operations Per Second).

What type of switch is required for a CobraNet network?

Use a quality switch capable of 100Mbps Ethernet traffic.

In a multi-box system, what unit do I connect the 3rd party controller to?

Serial: For normal use you will always connect to a Master unit.

Ethernet: Connect to the same network that connects all devices’ Ethernet ports.

Why are my Master and Slave 372 SPL Computer units not sensing at the same time?

When the 372 SPL Computer does a sense event it fades the audio down from its current gain setting to -80dB at X amount of time per dB, then opens a relay and takes a series of samples via the installed speaker(s). If multiple 372s/zones are synched together, the master unit first fades down it’s audio then activates its relay, simultaneously sending a trigger event signal via the EXT.RELAY pin to the slaved unit’s TRIGGER pin inputs, because the master first fades its audio then sends the trigger signal, the master and slave(s) are slightly out of sync. Furthermore, if the slaves are at different gain settings, the fade times may be far enough apart that the slaved relays operate at slightly different times. In other words, a 372 with it’s gain at +5dB will take longer to fade down the audio and open it’s relay than a unit set at 0dB.

This was corrected in version 2.09 of the firmware. To update the firmware to version, contact Symetrix Technical Support.

Are SymNet Designer site files backwards compatible?

No.  A site file created later than the version of Designer you are running will not open.  The latest version of Designer will open any site file.

Do SymNet modules need to have a wire connecting them to pass audio in Designer or is there another way to route an audio signal within the system?

SymNet Designer DSP modules do need to have a wire connecting them to pass audio signals. Control modules are the only modules that in some circumstances can be assigned internal via a “virtual” path instead of graphically wired together.

Where can I find a Flow Chart for the 562E Windowing Expander / Gate?

Is there a Mac OS X version of the ADA8824 (ADAT) 24-bit Eight Channel A/D-D/A Converter Config control panel?

No, and there will not be.

Where can I find a power supply (PS-2) for my older SX series unit?

Since all of the SX series which used the PS-2 power supply are no longer supported, Symetrix can not supply and has not stocked these power supplies for a considerable number of years.  Aftermarket power supplies may be available at:

www.rpelectronics.com – part number RP-1601AA1
www.ebay.com – search “Symetrix PS-2”
ww.onlinecomponents.com – part number 420A0008

Third Party Product Disclaimer – From time to time we test the compatibility of our own products with those of third parties. While we are happy to share with our customers the results of our own studies as well as other (possibly unsubstantiated) information regarding these third party products, it is the policy of Symetrix, Inc. to neither endorse, recommend nor support products manufactured and/or supplied by third parties. The responsibility of choosing third party products which are compatible with Symetrix products rests solely with the qualified contractor, consultant or system designer.

Where can I find a User's Guide for the GENx192 Ultra Low Jitter Studio Master Clock?

Where can I find AutoCAD files for the AirTools 6200?

Where can I find the External Control Protocol for SymNet SymLink, Express, and Solus units?

The External Control Protocol for SymNet units can be found below. This document covers all third-party control for SymNet units including both RS-232 and UDP (IP).

SymNet External Control Protocol

Where can I find a Flow Chart for the 527E Voice Processor?

372 SPL Computer displays gain as 0 dB, but it still seems hot.

See if the AGC is active, this is applied independently of the SPL functions and will not show as a gain change.

How does my 3rd party external controller talk to my Symetrix unit?

Serial or Ethernet (UDP/IP)

Note, the control protocol / command strings are the same regardless of the communication mode.

What is required to configure a Symetrix unit?

Windows 7 or later.

250 MB free storage space.

1024×768 graphics capability.

16-bit or higher colors.

CD-ROM drive or Internet connection 512 MB or more RAM as required by your operating system.

An available serial port capable of operating at 57600 or 115200 baud.

A straight-through RS-232 cable and/or CAT5 cable.

Are Crestron modules available for Composer?

The following archive contains Crestron modules for the most commonly controlled functions of Composer:

Composer Crestron Modules v.3.0

The v3.0 Crestron modules are compatible with Composer hardware including Edge, Radius 12×8 EX, Radius AEC, Prism, Solus NX, xControl, 2 Line Analog Telephone Interface Card, and the 2 Line VoIP Interface Card. The following control modules have been developed and will be available for use with the Crestron 2 and 3 series controllers:

  • Volume Up/Down Control Module with User Limits
  • Fader Set Control Module
  • Button Push Module
  • Preset Execution Module
  • Controller Receiver Module
  • Input / Output Selector Module
  • VoIP Dialer Module and ATI Dialer Module
  • Speed Dial Module / Speed Dial Store / Delete Phone Number / Name Module

The updated Crestron modules utilize command processor architecture to maximize efficiency and responsiveness. The command processor is responsible for all the data parsing to and from the Symetrix DSP which makes it more efficient for the individual control modules to operate. When the control ID’s match a particular control module, then the controller information is used and updated.

Note: Crestron v.3.0 modules were specifically designed to work with SymNet Composer hardware over RS-232 (baud rate 57600), TCP/IP or UDP/IP port 48631. These modules will not work with legacy SymNet hardware. If you have legacy SymNet hardware, please use the Crestron v.1.0 or 2.0 modules.

Composer Crestron Modules v.2.0

The v2.0 Crestron modules are compatible with SymNet Composer hardware including Edge, Radius 12×8, Radius AEC, Prism, Solus NX, xControl, SymNet 2 Line Telephone Interface Card.  Examples provided include Fader control, Button press, Increment and Decrement button, Preset Recall, Mute All, and Controller Receiver.

Note: Creston v2.0 modules where specifically designed to work with SymNet Composer hardware over RS-232 (baud rate 57600) or UDP/IP port 48631.  These modules can also be used for UDP/IP control with legacy SymNet hardware, Integrator Series, Jupiter Series, and Solus by simply changing the RS-232 buad rate to 38400 or the UDP/IP port to 48630.

2 Line Analog Telephony Interface Crestron Control Module v2

This program was created to demonstrate the capabilities of the SymNet 2 Line Analog Telephone Interface (ATI) card in the context of Crestron external control.
The user module and touch panel signals that comprise 95% of this program can be easily copied to other integration projects where the Symetrix ATI card will be used.
A Composer file has been created that has the controller numbers corresponding to this external control program. This allows the correct information to flow in both directions between the device and control system processor.

Composer Crestron Modules v1.0

The v1.0 Creston modules are compatible with: Jupiter, Zone Mix 761, 780, 788, 722, Solus, 8x8DSP, CobraLink, and 4×4, 4×12, 8×8, 12×4 Express Cobra hardware), Examples provided include Volume, Fader, Button, Switch and Dialer control plus Preset recall. Additionally, the v1.0 modules will work with the legacy SymNet hardware across a multi-unit ring, as well as a multi-ring system.
A matching example SymNet Designer Site File is also included. The modules are fully documented by the SymNet Control Protocol Crestron Module.

Addendum linked here: SymNet_Control Protocol_Crestron_Module_Addendum

 

Where can I find a Flow Chart for the 306 Preamp / Ducker?

What is the I/O headroom on the ADA8824 (ADAT) 24-bit Eight Channel A/D-D/A Converter?

In both local modes (+4) and remote (+4/-10), the default headroom is set to 20dB. Therefore, setting the unit to +4 means the maximum input is +24dBu, and that the maximum output level is +24dBu (+/- 0.5dB). By using the variable I/O) gain control from the remote mode configuration applications (PC or Mac), the user can alter the unit’s input and output headroom.

Can I copy/paste DSP module settings in Designer?

Yes. Use the mouse right-click to save and load DSP module settings to and from your disk-based ‘Settings File’. The ‘Settings File’ is a library that you can use to store EQ, Compressor, Crossover, etc. setups and recall them at will for later use. Alternatively, you can copy a whole DSP module within a configuration or between configurations. From the Design View, just click on the module, choose copy, and then paste it where you want the new module to go.

What are the jitter specifications for the GENx6 / GENx6-96?

20ps rms, 50ps peak jitter; 10ppm typical, 50ppm max drift.

Where can I find a User's Guide for the 425 Dual Compressor / Limiter / Expander?

What is the ARC-PS?

The ARC-PS is an 8 port expansion hub for data, power and ARC audio.  The ARC-PS is supported by all host DSPs.  Note, some DSPs may require a special cable.  Contact support@symetrix.co for more information.

Can my Symetrix-manufactured unit normally powered by the PS-3 be battery powered for remote use?

No, the only option would be to use a 12VDC to 117VAC inverter with the supplied PS-3 inline power supply.

There is an orange light flashing inside my Lucid 88192. Is something wrong with my unit?

The flashing light indicates that the converter is properly booted and running normally. If the light ceases to flash, this would indicate a problem.

Where can I find a Data Sheet for the 308 VCA Volume Control / Loudness EQ?

The 371 SPL Computer seems to have no effect.

Check the ratio setting for Gain:Sense Ratio. At 0.5:1, the gain changes are very subtle. Choose a larger value for more change. Check the bar graph in Sense to see if the sense level is always the same, because then the gain will always be the same. Make sure the unit is not in HISTORY or BYPASS mode.

Where can I find mechanical drawings for the ARC-2 front panel so that I can have custom panels made?

Versions for punched metal and machined materials are provided below. A third drawing for the display window is also provided. Using these drawings, contractors may build their own custom ARC-2 front panels to match decor or specific needs.

ARC-2 Wall Bezel (Machine Version)

ARC-2 Wall Bezel (Punched Version)

ARC Window

Where can I find a Data Sheet for the S/PDIFx7 S/PDIF Distribution Amplifier?

Is the THI-101 a VOIP device or work with VOIP systems?

The THI-101 works with any phone by connecting to the headset connection whether the phone line is POTS or VOIP.

Is the SSG192 a time code (LTC, VITC, etc.) generator?

No. A time code generator creates a linear stream of addresses that can be interpreted by a time code reader (stand-alone, embedding into picture, or incorporated into a device) as an absolute location. It is used to synchronize transports when lockup of multiple machines is desired. The SSG192 does not support this function or synchronize in this context.

Why is the signal from my 303 Interface Amplifier (Bi-directional) distorted?

Check the input signal. Is it too hot, or is it already distorted? Check the output loading. It should be above or equal to 600 ohms. Is the input of the device following the 303 clipping? Is something else clipping?

Does Jupiter hardware have a default IP address?

Jupiter is DHCP capable.  If it is not given a DHCP address it will default to a 169.254 base IP address.  The last two octets of that address can be calculated by converting the last two groups of numbers of the unit’s MAC address from hex to decimal.  The unit’s MAC address is located on a sticker on the bottom of the hardware.

What if I order an Edge or Radius AEC Frame but do not fill up the card slots?

Filler panels will reside in the empty slots.

I have an older 528E without the internal mic/line switch. How can I change the XLR line output to microphone level?

Tools Required:

#2 Phillips-head screwdriver

Top Cover Removal:

Ensure that the 528E is disconnected from the AC power source.

Remove two 6-32 x 1/2 inch screws from the top panel and two 6-32 x 1/2 inch screws from each side of the chassis.

Lift the top cover free of the chassis.

Changing The XLR Output Level:

The 528E ships from Symetrix with the XLR output configured for a line level output. If you must have a microphone level output, the following steps lead you through the process of switching the XLR line level output to microphone level (or back to line level).

Remove the top cover according to the steps outlined above.

Locate the XLR output connector.

Find the “Output Level” solder pads J17 and J18 directly behind the XLR connector.

Fill the space between the J17 pads with solder.

Fill the space between the J18 pads with solder.

Locate the two circuit board traces next to J18 marked by the word “Cut”.

Cut these two traces with a small, sharp knife.

Replace the top cover.

Reinstall the 528E into your setup.

Where is the Sound Control Panel in Mac OS 8.x?

With system 8.0 and up the Sound Control Panel can be found in the Apple Extras folder, rather than the Control Panels folder.

Where can I obtain a schematic for my Symetrix product?

Many schematics are available in the Symetrix Knowledge Base. Use the search function to find the schematic for the specific product you are interested in.

Can I modify a Jupiter app?

Jupiter apps are fixed architecture and can not be modified.

What do I do if the remote volume control on the 460 Presentation Audio Mixer is not working?

1. Check CTL Destination setting in Main menu.

2. Check CTL Offset and Mult in Serial Control Setup and Options menu.

How do I reset my Integrator Series 722, 760, 780 or 788 to the factory default settings?

The factory reset button is located just to the left of the device’s Ethernet port. Using a pen or a paper clip, depress this button and continue to hold it down. While doing this, unplug the device, wait about 10 seconds and then plug the device back in… continue to keep the reset button depressed until the device has gone through a “light show,” where all of the LEDs on the device briefly light in sequence.

Once the light show stops (approximately 15 seconds), release the reset button. The device is now returned to  the state it was in when it arrived from the factory.

The main advantage of resetting the device to a factory default state is that it will re-enable DHCP (Dynamic Host Control Protocol) on the device, thereby automatically assigning a reliable and predictable IP address in the 169.x.x.x base.

What is the maximum sample rate for the ADA8824 (ADAT) 24-bit Eight Channel A/D-D/A Converter?

48 kHz.

How is data transmitted between multiple Express units?

Via Ethernet or serial.

Ethernet: TCP/IP.

Serial:  Serial data is bundled with CobraNet audio.

ARC-SWK Programming: How do I separating the LED logic from the buttons?

The ARC-SWK is a popular wall panel for SymNet systems. Symetrix has been involved in many designs where the LEDs for the ARC-SWK (or ARC-SW4) need to respond in a unique fashion in relation to the buttons they are associated with. In standard modes, the LEDs follow the buttons and will light green or red when the button is pressed or it can toggle on and off when the button is repeatedly pressed.

But what if you want to make the LEDs toggle between green and red? Or what about amber LED indication which can be achieved if the LED red and green state are triggered simultaneously? To achieve this, you have to be aware of a few things…

In the Controller Manager, create an ARC-SWK in the RS-485 Network.

Double-click the ARC-SWK in the menu tree to edit its settings and select the “Switches Tab”.

Fig 1: Controller Manager Window (under the Tools pull-down menu)

Select “Independent Switches” mode in the Switches tab.

Fig 2: Independent Switches Mode

Select “Manually Assign LEDs” in the “Switch LEDs” mode. Now the LED Number pull-down will be activated and you can select each LED for editing. The “Controller Number” assignments for the Green and the Red LEDs can now be set.

Fig 3: Manually Assign LED mode

The Next phase uses the RS-232/485 Output modules. These are located in the Control Modules menu in the SymNet Toolkit (F8 toggles the toolkit on and off).

Fig 4: RS-232/485 Output Module located in: Control Modules> Control Outputs> RS-232/485 Output module

Now let’s look at a design concept where 2 presets are toggled on and off with one button on an ARC wall panel. Below is the module design.
View Image

There is a button that would be linked to the button on the ARC SWK.

There are 2 preset trigger modules and an inverter.

The inverter module allows one preset to be triggered when the button is pressed/on and another when the button is pressed/off.

The RS-232 modules are then used to relay controller number information to the RS-485. Notice they are set to numbers 1 and 2.

These are the same setting as in Fig 3 which shows how the ARC needs to be configured.

Remember the ARC entire site file needs to be downloaded before it will work. The ARC network has a separate download.

Is it possible to get more than three levels of priority paging on the Zone Mix 761?

Absolutely!

How-to: More than three levels of paging with the Zone Mix 761

Within the offices of Symetrix, we often joke that our all-encompassing banner should actually read ‘Over-engineered by Symetrix’. We take great pride in the design of our products, so much so, that we often subconsciously overdo things — just a touch. It’s all for the better in the end, reinforcing our commitment to produce extremely high value, robust and affordable products for audio professionals.

As we’ve come to find out, the Zone Mix 761 is no exception. It is advertised as having three levels of paging plus emergency page and background music. However, it is possible to get four, and even five, levels of paging if you do not require the emergency page and/or wish to forego background music in a zone.

For up to four levels of priority paging plus one BGM (background music) source, you can use the Program 1 and Program 2 inputs for each zone as the lowest two paging levels (lowest of all is the BGM).

1.For a given zone, assign your BGM as the source for Program 1.

2. Select your lowest priority page mic as the source for Program 2.

3. Adjust the Ducker Threshold, Depth and Hold as necessary.

4. Set Page mics 2-4 as the sources for Page Stations 1-3.

5. Set the Page Station Priority to Low, Med and High, respectively, for Page Stations 1-3.

6. That’s it! 

It is also possible to get five levels of paging. If you forego BGM in a zone, you can use the Program 1 source as your fifth paging source (lowest priority). Note that an external microphone preamplifier, such as the Symetrix 302 Dual Microphone Preamplifier, is required in order to connect microphones to the Audio Media inputs of the Zone Mix 761.

But why stop there? You can expand even further on this configuration because the Symetrix 302 is a dual microphone preamplifier, why not use that 2nd channel to feed the next Audio Media input on the 760 so you can have a unique lowest level paging source for another zone?

How can I use a "DJ Tamer" in Designer?

Clever Use of Dynamic Side-chains Creates a “DJ Tamer” This tech tip is more of a featured application. The “DJ Tamer” linked below is no more than a clever use of the side-chain inputs on a few of the standard dynamics modules found in SymNet Designer.

The DJ Tamer works by tricking a DJ to stay within a predetermined gain range, allowing him/her to push their gain up to a certain point. After that point, his/her gain will be automatically attenuated. The DJ should then be able to figure out the point of maximum gain (allowed by the system installer) and remain there, thus saving your precious sound system from overload.

The Site File linked below contains text notes for setup. A Super-module which can be exported for use in other Site Files is also embedded within the Site File.

DJ Tamer.sym

Where can I find a User's Guide for the 302 Dual Microphone Preamplifier?

Where can I find Schematics for the AESx4 AES Distribution Amplifier?

I can not ‘Go On-line’ with my Symetrix 722, 760, 780 or 788, AirTools 2x or 2m after successfully completing their software’s Connection Wizard.

If you have successfully completed the Connection Wizard but when attempting to ‘Go On-line’ with hardware you receive a ‘Connection Error’ message, then it is possible that proxy server settings are enabled on your computer and are preventing network communications with your Symetrix device.

Wireless cards may also prevent connection and should be disabled.

To disable the proxy server settings on your computer, or specify the IP address of your Symetrix device as an exception that will not use the proxy server:

Click the Windows Start Menu and choose Control Panel.

Open Internet Options.

Click on the Connections tab.

Click on LAN settings.

Un-check “Use a proxy server for your LAN” or click on Advanced and enter the IP address of your device in the Exceptions field.

Note: Instructions assume Windows XP Professional. The steps and may vary slightly for other Windows operating systems.

Where can I purchase a power supply for my AD9624 or DA9624?

The PS-3 power supply can be purchased factory direct. Contact sales@symetrix.co.

How much current is provided by the phantom power supply on SymNet?

About 10mA per input. Each input supply is current limited so a short in one input will not adversely affect other inputs.

What is the A/D latency in the AD9624 24-bit Stereo 96 kHz A/D Converter?

0.8 mS at 48 kHz or 0.4 mS at 96 kHz.

Does Edge contain local GPIO or is a control accessory, such as the xControl needed?

Yes, the Edge does have local GPIO so the xControl is not needed in most cases.  The Edge frame has 8 analog control ports (8 pots or 16 switches) and 8 Logic Outputs.

How do I upgrade ARC firmware in Designer?

ARC firmware is managed in Designer in the Controller Manager.

Tools > Controller Manager.

Where can I find a Quick Start Guide for the Control I/O Control Interface?

The Quick Start Guide for the Control I/O Control Interface can be found below.

Control I/O Quick Start Guide

Where can I find a Flow Chart for the 532E Graphic Equalizer?

Where can I find AutoCAD files for the 305 Distribution Amplifier?

Where can I find Schematics for the 551E Five Band Parametric EQ or 552E Dual Five Band Parametric EQ?

Where can I find Schematics for the (original, not "m") 421 AGC-Leveler?

Does Express have a default IP address?

No.  IP settings are static and user specified.

Where can I find Windows drivers for the PCI24 PCI Computer I/O Card?

All known surviving Windows drivers for the PCI24 PCI Computer I/O Card can be found below.

Note: These drivers were never tested or certified for use with any Windows version beyond 9x (Windows 95, 98, etc.). Windows NT type drivers (Windows NT, 2000, XP, etc.) were never developed, nor will they be.

PCI24 Driver for Windows 9x v1.02

Can Express units share audio with CobraNet equipped 3rd party devices?

Yes.

Where can I find Schematics for the GENx6 Word/Super Clock Generator?

Where can I find AutoCAD files for the 303 Interface Amplifier?

Is it necessary to power-cycle hardware after changing the DIP switches?

Yes.

Tip: only the Master unit needs to have the proper baud rate set as determined by DIP switch number 1.

Where can I find Schematics for the 610 Broadcast Audio Delay?

Can multiple 6000 or 6100 units be controlled by a remote (RC-6000) to dump, cough, start and exit at the same time?

Yes, although custom wiring is required. You would do this by wiring to the contact closure and ground pins on the back of both units in parallel, and then wiring the remote LED indicator pins from just one of the units. The units can not and will not be in perfect sync (start and exit build times), however, the dump, cough, start and exit functions will be triggered at the same time on both units from one remote.

Can I control Jupiter from my mobile device, such as an iPhone, iPad, or Android device?

Yes.  With the release of the Jupiter 2.0 software, the ARC-WEB makes control from a mobile device or web browser possible.

Where can I find a Flow Chart for the 402 Dual Output Delay?

What gear works with a clock generator?

Many digital devices now support external clocking. Generally, if the unit has a digital output, it will probably have clock input and output connectors. The most common format uses a BNC type connector (tall, silver barrel on the chassis, twist-lock connector in the cable). This format calls for a special Word Clock cable. You’ll find this connection (external clock input) on digital consoles, DAT machines, CD-Rs, sound cards with digital I/O, processors, and of course, A/D converters.

Where can I find Schematics for the 527E Voice Processor?

Are AutoCAD / DWG files available for Symetrix products?

Yes. Download AutoCAD / DWG files in the Symetrix Knowledge Base. Use the search function to find the AutoCAD files for the specific product you are interested in.

Does Via use ASIO drivers?

 Dante Via will appear as both ASIO and WDM drivers on a Windows PC.

What is the RS-232 network?

RS-232 is a standardized protocol for serial communication.  Some Symetrix devices talk to 3rd party controllers on an RS-232 network using simple ASCI control strings.

Where can I find a Data Sheet for the ADA1000 Two Channel A/D-D/A Converter?

My PC is unable to communicate with the 322 DSP Engine

1. Check your RS-232 serial cable. It should be a straight-through standard 232 cable.
2. Check the DIP switches on the back of the 322. For a single unit at address 1, only switch 1 should be up. All others should be down.
3. Make sure the 232 cable is firmly connected between your PC’s serial port and the 322’s front panel 232 input.
4. Power the unit on.
5. Open the 322 Designer software.
6. Under the File->Preferences menu, make sure you have the correct serial port selected. If you do not know which COM ports are available on your computer, check the Windows Device Manager.
7. Finally, press the Online button and choose DOWNLOAD design to units from CURRENT site file.
8. If that still doesn’t help, double check that the serial port on your PC is actually working correctly. Try to communicate with another unit of some kind. Try another serial port if you have one. Make sure that no other software is running that may be using the serial port. And finally, try another PC entirely.

Can the xOut 12 output mute be controlled from ARC remotes, SymVue, or 3rd party control systems?

No, the xOut 12 output mutes can only be adjusted when using SymNet Composer.

Will the TI-101 Telephone Interface work with an electronic telephone system?

The design of the TI-101 limits its dependable use to standard central office lines. Installing an analog adapter or analog circuit card in the system might be a solution. It is your only choice if the telephone system digitizes the audio. Using this mode of operation, install the hybrid and a single line telephone on the analog extension. Answer incoming calls on the regular system and transfer them to the analog extension.

To assure that you get the right equipment, tell your phone installer that you want a fax machine on that extension. If a fax machine will operate on a line, a telephone hybrid will also. Your phone installer will not understand what you need if you talk to him about a “phone hybrid”. He will understand the requirements for a fax machine.

How do I monitor the source signal while recording with the ADA8824 (ADAT) 24-bit Eight Channel A/D-D/A Converter?

This is normally accomplished by the hardware/software connected to the AES or Light Pipe connections. For example with an ADAT connected to the optical in/out, the ADAT will make the connection between the A/D and D/A and determine if the analogue output signal(s) are derived from either the source (A/D) or from the tape.

Where can I find a Data Sheet for the 460 Presentation Audio Mixer?

Does the 371 SPL Computer come with a microphone?

No.

Where can I find specifications or a Data Sheet for the CobraNet and SymLink SymNet line?

A Full Line SymNet Product Catalog complete with specifications can be found below. Additional installation information and/or specifications may be found in each product’s Quick Start Guide (if applicable).

SymNet Full Line Product Catalog (EN)

How can I use the 420 Stereo Power Amplifier for a headphone amp?

The 420 is ideally suited to headphone distribution systems. There are two basic strategies involved in making a loud headphone system:

1. If you have low impedance phones, then you need high current capability to make them loud. This translates to a modest 8 Ohm power rating, like 20 watts.

2. If you have high impedance phones, then you need high voltage capability to make them loud. This translates to a moderate 8 Ohm power rating, like 100 watts

Why is there a high frequency roll-off while the 610 Broadcast Audio Delay builds delay?

While the 610 is building delay, the frequency response is down 1 dB at 6 kHz, 2 dB at 8 kHz and 3.5 dB at 10 kHz. Once the 610 builds its 7.5 second delay the frequency response is flat (within 1 dB) between 20 Hz and 14 kHz.

Where can I find AutoCAD files for the 304 Headphone Amplifier?

Can I plug a microphone directly into a SymNet 8x8DSP, 8 In, or BreakIn 12?

Yes. All SymNet 8×8 DSP, 8 In and BreakIn 12 units’ with analog audio inputs are equipped with software controlled mic/line inputs. In the 8×8 and 8in, digitally controlled precision analog attenuators are part of the analog input stages. Adjustments made to the input gain block in SymNet Designer actually trim the level of analog signal being sent to the A/D converter – allowing you to maximize the dynamic range performance of the SymNet hardware. On the BreakIn12, software controls the coarse gain levels of the mic preamp and fine trim is done with DSP modules in SymNet Designer.

How should I set up my 528E Voice Processor to get going?

Push the MIC/LINE switch IN.
Put the -15 PAD switch in the NORM position (OUT).
Set the OUTPUT LEVEL control at “0”, the 12 o’clock position.
Set the MIC GAIN control to achieve peaks of “0” dB on the output meter when speaking into the microphone.
Set the De-ess FREQUENCY control to 3 o’clock.
Set the De-ess THRESHOLD control to “0”.
Push the DE-ESS switch IN.
Set the EXP THRES control to “-25” (12 o’clock).
Set the COMP THRES control to “-10” (12 o’clock).
Set the COMP RATIO control to “2” (12 o’clock).
Push the EXP/COMP switch IN.
Set the Low EQ FREQUENCY control to 11 o’clock.
Set the Low EQ BANDWIDTH control to 11 o’clock.
Set the Low EQ CUT/BOOST control to 2 o’clock.
Set the Mid EQ FREQUENCY control to 8 o’clock.
Set the Mid EQ BANDWIDTH control to 11 o’clock.
Set the Mid EQ CUT/BOOST control to 11 o’clock.
Set the High EQ FREQUENCY control to 10 o’clock.
Set the High EQ BANDWIDTH control to 2 o’clock).
Set the High EQ CUT/BOOST control to 2 o’clock.
Push the EQ IN/OUT switch IN.
Set the Output Level GAIN (dB) control to “0” (12 o’clock).
Push the VOICE SYMMETRY switch IN.

What pins are used on the serial cable?

2, 3, 5, straight-through.

Why does my AirTools 6200 Voice Processor sometimes have trouble staying connected via Ethernet for extended periods of time?

We are aware of a small problem with the 6200 Designer software that, under certain (though uncommon) circumstances, results in dropping offline when the 6200 hardware is connected via Ethernet.

The two scenarios under which we are able to duplicate this problem are:

Network saturation (for example, CobraNet traffic):
By sending a large volume data such as broadcast CobraNet audio (multicast bundles) onto the same subnet as the 6200 and PC, we were able to make the unit drop off-line within a few minutes.

Using a repeater hub and deliberately adding network traffic:
Using a hub, it is possible to flood the 10 Mbit Ethernet port on the 6200 with more data than it can handle. We found we could force it to drop offline by one of the following methods: copying a large file from a network server to the PC running 6200 Designer; or by opening a remote desktop connection to the PC running 6200 Desginer (sending data-intensive screen updates); and using Windows Update utility while starting a transfer.

Most Ethernet “hubs” today are actually switches. The difference between a repeater hub and a switch is that a repeater hub sends traffic received at one port out to all other ports, whereas a hub intelligently looks at who the packet is intended for and sends it out to only the appropriate port(s). This is important because with a repeater hub, it is possible to have a collision that subsequently requires a retry. This will not occur when using a switch. (It is actually quite difficult to buy a repeater hub today, since switches are a superior technology and are replacing hubs in most manufacturers’ product lines.)

What do I do if the output from the 460 Presentation Audio Mixer isn't hot enough?

1. Check settings on output Compressor or Limiter.

2. Check OUTPUT LEDs for illuminated COMP LED.

3. Check ratio settings; they may be set too high.

4. Check settings for Compression Makeup Gain; it may be too low.

5. Check if Compress Threshold is set too low.

Does the analog and digital I/O work simultaneously on the 6100 Broadcast Audio Delay?

The outputs are parallel, but for the inputs you must select either analog or digital.

What is the maximum distance for CobraNet audio?

100 meters.  Longer distances can be achieved using fiber.

How do I upgrade firmware in Designer?

After establishing connection between Designer and the hardware, go to the Hardware menu > Upgrade Firmware/Hardware Settings.  Choose either Auto Upgrade to automatically upgrade all units in the system, or manually upgrade the firmware components (FPGA, Microprocessor) per unit.

Where can I find AutoCAD files for the 581E Distribution Amplifier?

Why is the MUSIC/PAGE ERROR LED flashing at the end of my calibration of the 572 SPL Computer?

During calibration, the 572 requires continuous paging or music signal at its HOUSE or MUSIC Line Inputs or at the PAGE MIC input. If the MUSIC/PAGE ERROR LED flashes, it means that the calibration was unsuccessful, because there was not enough signal present at the input(s).

1. Make sure that OPTIONS dip switch “A” is in the “DOWN” position.
2. Check that paging or music signals are being generated continuously and that they are at an appropriate level, i.e. line level (0dB) for the HOUSE or MUSIC Line Inputs, and mic level (-40dB) for the PAGE MIC input.
3. Make sure that these signals are actually reaching the desired 572 input (check your cables).
4. If you are applying signal to the PAGE MIC input, check that the PAGE MIC trimpot has been turned clockwise. If this trimpot is turned only part of the way to the full clockwise position, and the MUSIC/PAGE ERROR LED flashes when you attempt a calibration, try turning the PAGE MIC trimpot completely clockwise.

Where can I download the AirTools 2m software?

What is the voltage of the 528E Voice Processor's phantom power supply?

With the phantom power switched on and no microphone connected, the 528E will provide phantom voltage of about 48 volts measured between either pins #2 or #3 and ground (pin #1, of the input connector is ground).
With the phantom power switched on and an active microphone connected, the voltage of the 528E’s phantom power supply will typically be between 34 and 38 volts.

Where can I find a User's Guide for the 301 Low Distortion Compressor / Limiter?

How much processing and routing can be handled with my DSP?

Processing and routing capabilities vary greatly per design and hardware being used.  Each module block indicates its DSP usage.  Total usage is viewed in Designer or Composer below the Tool-kit on the bottom left of the screen.

The xControl has two RS-232 ports, are these ports used for incoming commands only?

No, both ports can receive incoming commands, but they can also be used to send data, including both feedback and custom RS-232 strings.

What Mac OS version is required for the ADA8824 (ADAT) 24-bit Eight Channel A/D-D/A Converter Config control panel?

Mac OS 7.1 thru 9.1, also the application requires OMS (Opcode Music System) version 2.X or higher. The latest version of the ADA8824 Config application program is 2.0. (check in “about” under the Apple menu for the version number).

What are the implications of using the multicast signal?

Multicast is very efficient for one-to-many signal distribution, such as front-of-house to many amplifiers in a stadium. With multicast, a single stream of network packets is transmitted by the source and the packets are replicated by the network switches as they travel through the network. In networks that do not support controlled distribution of multicast (a common case), the multicast packets carrying the audio channels will flood throughout the network. Dante devices support IGMP snooping which avoids flooding and delivers the multicast audio packets only to devices that have requested those channels. For point-to-point connections between two Dante devices, multicast is not useful and is not recommended.

Are there plans to add AVB support to Dante Virtual Soundcard?

There are no current plans to support AVB for the Dante Virtual Soundcard.

Do various switch ports have to be configured specifically for Dante interfacing?

No, but when the network is heavily loaded (e.g. with many audio channels or other traffic), additional QoS configuration may improve performance.

I use Dante in an iLive system and tried to go with a 96kHz sample rate but it is in grayscale and only 48kHz was available.

Dante licensees are able to configure the options that their product support. If a product does not support a specific feature, you should contact the manufacturer to determine the reason.

Which Mac OS versions are compatible with the NB24 NuBus Computer I/O Card and PCI24 PCI Computer I/O Card?

As of December 3, 1998

The PCI24 is supported using Mac Operating Systems:
7.5.5
7.6.1
8.0
8.1
The NB24 is supported using Mac Operating Systems:
7.5.1
7.5.3
7.5.5
Using an unsupported OS such as *Mac O/S 8.5 or beta OS may result in unpredictable results.

*The PCI24 & NB24 are not currently supported using Mac O/S 8.5 & above as of 12/03/98

Please refer to the documentation included with your digital audio software to determine the compatibility of your software.

What is Phantom Power?

Phantom power derives its name from its invisibility to audio signals, even though the microphone cable carries both phantom power (as direct current) and audio signals (as alternating current). Specifically, the term phantom power means a positive DC voltage sent to the microphone on both audio leads, through current-limiting resistors which also serve to isolate the audio leads from one another. The front panel phantom power button applies phantom power via pins 2 and 3 of the mic input XLR connectors.

Do the inputs of the 4 Channel Analog Input Card need to be padded to receive the output of a mixer or console?

No.

Where can I find a Flow Chart for the 301 Low Distortion Compressor / Limiter?

How do I control SymNet over the Internet?

In SymNet Designer 9.1 and later it is possible to control multiple IP equipped SymNet units over the Internet (wide area network, or WAN).  Multiple devices can be accessed from a single external IP address.  This is accomplished by using unique port numbers for each device.

To configure WAN communication for your system open the Help files contained within the SymNet Designer software and perform a search for “WAN” or see the chapter entitled “Menu Bar – File – Preferences.”

Where can I find schematics for the TI-101 Telephone Interface?

Where can I find Schematics for the 522 Compressor / Limiter / Expander?

Can the GENx6 / GENx6-96 / GENx192 generate Word Clock or Superclock synchronized from an AES signal?

Yes, the GENx6 / GENx6-96 can synthesize a Word Clock or Superclock output derived from the Word Clock, Superclock or AES input.

The GENx192 can only generate a Word Clock signal from an AES signal. Superclock was not included on the GENx192 since recent Digidesign gear does not have Superclock.

Where can I find a Data Sheet for the 506E Headphone Amplifier?

Can I request a custom Jupiter app?

The requirements for development of a custom app are very difficult to pass.  Nonetheless, if you have an idea for a Jupiter app you can discuss it with a support engineer by contacting support@symetrix.co.

When do I need to use an external relay on my 372 SPL Computer?

When controlling amplifiers larger than 200 watts (8-ohms), you must use an external DPDT relay. The 372 SPL Computer’s internal relay cannot handle more than 8-amps of load current. The recommended maximum amplifier wattages are as follows: 300 watts at 70V, 200 watts at 8-ohms, and 100 watts at 4-ohms. The 24-volt version of the Potter & Brumfield PRD11DGO works well. Its DPDT contacts are rated at 30 amps.

Where can I find a User's Guide for the 440 Foreground Audio Controller?

Where can I find Schematics for the 420 Stereo Power Amplifier?

What do I do if the output of the 460 Presentation Audio Mixer is stripped of dynamics?

1. Check settings on output Compressor or Limiter.

2. Check OUTPUT LEDs for illuminated COMP LED.

3. Check ratio settings; they may be set too high.

4. Check settings for Compression Makeup Gain; it may be too low.

5. Check if Compress Threshold is set too low.

Can you acccess multiple SymNet units over the Internet?

Did you know SymNet Designer 9.1 or later can access multiple SymNet units over the Internet?  Find out more in this Tech Tip:

Tech_Tip: WAN Access for SymNet Systems

Where can I find Schematics for the 306 Preamp / Ducker?

What do I do if there is no output signal from the 460 Presentation Audio Mixer?

Check cables and connections to see if:

1. Outputs are driving inputs and inputs are fed from outputs.

2. Signal from the source(s) is getting to the 460.

3. The signal chain after the 460 is functioning.

4. Check if the LCD display is illuminated.

5. If signal is present, and the downstream system is operative, check the level settings at inputs and outputs to ensure that they are not muted or attenuated sufficiently to make the 460 appear to not be functioning.

Where can I find Schematics for the 501 Peak-RMS Compressor / Limiter?

Where can I find a Data Sheet for the GENx6 Word/Super Clock Generator?

Why does the 6200 keep "losing" its hardware settings after configuration?

There is a known bug in 6200 Designer where after configuring the Hardware Settings (found under the Unit menu in 6200 Designer) and then clicking the done button, the settings are not saved in the unit. The work around for this bug is quite simple: Click the Windows Close Box (the “X”) in the upper right hand corner of the dialog instead of clicking the “Done” button. This will write the hardware settings to the unit.

Where can I find a Data Sheet for the 371 SPL Computer?

How do I obtain a return authorization to send in a unit for repair?

Retrieve the units serial number then contact Symetrix Support at support@symetrix.co or call +1 425 778 7728.

Where can I find Schematics for the ADA1000 Two Channel A/D-D/A Converter?

How does a 3rd party control system such as AMX or Crestron interface with the Integrator Series products?

Host control (via the Integrator Series software applications) is over Ethernet.

3rd-party control (AMX and Crestron type systems) may also interface over Ethernet, or by RS-232 on certain Integrator Series products (such as Zone Mix 760’s shipped after January 1, 2008) and the Automix Matrix 780.

The Integrator Series products use the same “RS-232” ASCII control protocol SymNet (as of Designer version 7.0) uses encapsulated into UDP packets. This is quickly becoming the preferred control method in the industry as it flattens out the control system into a true network. No more point-to-point comms, multiple serial cards, or distance limitations. The bonus here is, if the control system programmer is already familiar with SymNet, there is no learning curve!

The Control Protocol for the Integrator Series products can be downloaded here.

Crestron modules for the Zone Mix 760 are available here.

For additional reference, the SymNet Control Protocol can be found here.

What is the limitation on fiber length for the ADAT lightpipe of the ADA8824 (ADAT) 24-bit Eight Channel A/D-D/A Converter?

50 ft. for plastic type fiber and over a mile for glass fiber cable.

What is the CobraNet bus latency?

3 settings are possible.

1 – 1/3ms

2 – 2/3ms

5 – 1/3ms

All CobraNet equipped units must be set to the same latency.

Why is the 420 Stereo Power Amplifier sound noisy?

Check input signal levels, and level control settings. Check gain settings on upstream equipment. Is the input signal already noisy?

Where can I find a User's Guide for the 522 Compressor / Limiter / Expander?

Can I change parameters on the 628 Digital Voice Processor via MIDI?

No. MIDI can only be used to select programs.

Where can I find a User's Guide for the 602 Stereo Digital Processor?

Can Dante Controller be used to turn on the output mute settings of the xOut 12?

No, Dante Controller is not able to adjust any audio related settings in a xOut 12.

Is Express DHCP capable?

No.

Are pre-made Designer program templates available?

Yes.  There are templates installed with Designer, and there are templates based on the Jupiter app library available at www.symetrix.co.

Should Word Clock cables all be the same length? And what is the recommended maximum length?

In an ideal world, yes. You cable the system up with equal length cables to avoid any delays in getting the clock signal to the target devices. Using mismatched cables could potentially negate the benefits of setting up a central clock system.

Word Clock cables should be kept as short as possible, not to exceed 15 feet.

External equipment will not sync to the AES outputs of the ADA8824 (ADAT) 24-bit Eight Channel A/D-D/A Converter?

External equipment should have no problems syncing to the 8824 AES outputs – they are all phase aligned (unlike some equipment), and as long as they are receiving a good clock they will work. If not setup properly then it is possible they won’t work – i.e. if the 8824 AES outputs are set to get data (and hence clock) from the ADAT (optical) inputs, and there is no ADAT input, then its not going to work.

What is the maximum voltage recommended for the analog control inputs on a SymNet device?

The input stage of an analog control input of a SymNet device will clamp on an input exceeding +5.5V.  Anything above +5.5V will draw excessive current (the amount depending on the output resistance of the device supplying the current) and could possibly damage the input stage.  Keep analog control input current to below +5.5V.

Where can I download the software for the 322 DSP Engine?

How do I adjust the null on the TI-101 Telephone Interface?

Place an outside call to someone. Once on the line, have them put the telephone handset down in a quiet place. Connect pink noise, white noise or simply music to the HOST INPUT. Listen, or meter, the CALLER OUTPUT and adjust the COARSE NULL for a minimum of the noise or music in the caller output. Repeat the adjustment for both the LF (low frequency) and HF (high frequency) nulls.

Where can I find MAC drivers for the PCI24 PCI Computer I/O Card?

All known surviving Mac OS drivers for the PCI24 PCI Computer I/O Card can be found below.

Note: These drivers were never tested or certified for use with any Mac OS version beyond 8.5. Mac OS X drivers were never developed, nor will they be.

PCI24 Driver for Mac OS (<8.5) v1.06 – A

PCI24 Driver for Mac OS (<8.5) v1.08 – A

PCI24 Driver for Mac OS (<8.5) v1.09 – A

PCI24 Driver for Mac OS (<8.5) v1.09 – D

PCI24 Driver for Mac OS (<8.5) v1.08

PCI24 Driver for Mac OS (<8.5) v1.02c

PCI24 Driver for Mac OS (<8.5) v1.06 – S

Where can I find Schematics for the 308 VCA Volume Control / Loudness EQ?

Which PCI24 PCI Computer I/O Card driver do I use?

The PCI24 audio card needs a software interface or driver to communicate with your audio application. Applications such as Cubase VST use an ASIO interface in place of the Macintosh Sound Manager. ASIO (Audio Stream In/Out) is a VST software interface for input/output of digital audio via audio cards. Please refer to the documentation included with your digital audio software to determine the proper driver/software combination (i.e. ASIO, Sound Manager, etc.). Be sure to check the version of your application as some software developers are changing from the Sound Manager interface to ASIO. The following is a sample of Lucid drivers/extensions used with popular digital audio production applications. Go to the download area at the bottom of this section for a list of the latest available drivers.

Where can I find an Ethernet application with IP capable Symetrix products?

SymNet Remote Terminal is a UDP terminal test application for testing Ethernet-based control for Symetrix products.

SymNet Remote Terminal.zip

Why is there no word clock input on the SymNet 4 Channel Digital Input Card?

In both AES/EBU and SPDIF the word clock is embedded into the digital audio, so the digital input card will synch to the sample rate of the incoming signal.

The CLKx6, GENx6 and GENx6-96 only have six outputs and the GENx192 only has eight outputs but I need more to feed everything in the studio. Can I split outputs?

You can put “T” splitters in, but due to the reflections and increased jitter this may defeat the purpose for having an external clock. Ultimately each device with a clock input should have its own direct connection to a clock output.

What is the D/A latency in the DA9624 24-bit Stereo 96 kHz D/A Converter?

0.7 mS at 48 kHz or 0.35 mS at 96 kHz.

Where can I find a Flow Chart for the 565E Dual Compressor / Limiter / Expander?

How do I reset the 371 SPL Computer to the factory default settings?

After a lightning strike, flood, nuclear blast, or other catastrophic disturbance, the 371 may become inoperative if the data stored in its EEPROM memory has been corrupted. The 371 can be returned to its factory default state by performing a master reset. To do this:

1. Unplug AC power
2. Press and hold in the NEXT and EXIT buttons.
3. Reconnect AC power.
4. Let go of the NEXT and EXIT buttons.
5. Press and release EXIT three times.
6. Now the LCD screen will display “EEPROM defaults restored” followed by the software version number. After doing this, all previous setup and calibration data will have been lost and must be re-entered as if it were a brand-new installation.

Are Symetrix ARCs supported by Jupiter?

Yes, all ARCs are supported by Jupiter.

Why is the 3rd party integration so important when I can just use Dante Controller for everything?

Dante Controller can be used for routing audio only, while the level of 3rd party integration achieved in SymNet Composer allows both audio routing and full control (at both design time and in real time) of all adjustable parameters for all interoperable products. One GUI, full control of all products.

I've seen issue in cases where the Network card expects an IP address through DHCP. Windows 7 will use the default address, but keeps broadcasting DHCP requests.

This is the expected behavior. A computer or other network device will continue to ask for a DHCP address in case the lack of a DHCP server.

Is the Dante Via software free software?

No.

will it be possible to use Via to complement and parrallel with other audio software such as Pro Tools or Logic Pro X ?

Yes.

Does dante Via take any ASIO or CoreAudio device? Such as sound coming in using Auvitran Network Streamer routed out to dante?

Yes.

Will Dante Via be available for users with registered Dante Hardware and/or Dante virtual soundcard? Is there something that can be said about the pricing of Dante Via?

Dante Via is expected to be available in Q1 of 2015.It will be sold on Audinate’s website when it is ready for commercial release. Dante Via final pricing has not yet been finalized.

I had a setup where IGMP Snooping blocked the dante clock so we had to disable IGMP Snooping to get Dante Clock working. It was a setup with mixed data on one VLAN. Any suggestion to this problem or tips how to setup IGMP?

IGMP Snooping settings are different for every manufacturer. I would suggest working with a network admin with specific experience or training on the particular brand or model of the switch. However, IGMP Snooping is not required for Dante, it is a network management tool that can be leveraged to optimize the network.

Are there products or are you planning to add manufactures that extract or convert audio on SDI to Dante ?

Solid State Logic has a product on the market that is an SDI to Dante de-embedder.

Can Dante VIA be used in collaboration with DVS or does it act as a Virtual sound card in of itself? Will Dante VIA be Compatible with Mavericks?

Dante Via is a separate product from Dante Virtual Soundcard, but it provides much of the same functionality, with the addition of more features.

How will Dante Via be different than Dante Virtual Soundcard?

Dante Via is an application that networks, routes and monitors all of your audio streams from your computer. It connects and combines internal and external microphones, speakers, applications and audio interfaces to each other and to the Dante network.

Unlike today’s world where your computer applications are locked and peripheral audio devices are limited to the short cables, Dante Via combines and connects synchronized audio to anywhere from anywhere over a standard IT network.

Do you have an ETA on Yosemite (osx 10.10) support?

We are currently working at upgrading Dante Controller and Dante Virtual Soundcard to support Yosemite. It will be release as soon as all issues are completely resolved.

Using the Dante Controller in the Broadcast world, I feel it needs an "are you sure you want to activate your updated routes" - with a list of what has been changed BEFORE it makes them. Is there plans for this?

Thanks for the input for the feature request. We will pass this on to Product Management for consideration.

Is there any software/hardware available that simply provides a more advanced audio meter of multiple channels all on one screen/display?

You can do this in SymNet Composer for any Dante channels routed through Symetrix hardware. You could also export them out through SymVue to be viewed on any PC with the SymVue application installed. The user with SymVue would only see the meters or have control of what you give them.

Does the PPM number for clock health monitoring translate to microseconds (-195 pm offset = 195 microsecond delay)?

The PPM in clock health monitoring shows the offset from the center frequency of the device’s own clock to that of the Dante network master clock. It is unrelated to latency.

Is clock health monitoring always on? There is a button in the toolbar of Controller. Does this turn monitoring on/off?

Dante devices are monitored by Dante Controller to establish the status of their clock synchronization with the Dante network master clock. There are two levels of monitoring: ‘passive’ and ‘active’. In passive mode, Dante Controller will report if a clock loses sync (or regains sync) with the master clock. In active mode, Dante Controller will also report if a clock is showing signs of instability. If a device clock is significantly unstable, it can lose sync with the master clock, which will result in the device being automatically muted.

Up-to-date brooklyn firmware is REQUIRED for this feature to work.

What third-party products are currently supported in Composer software?

Symetrix Composer-based products will work with any other Dante product. We also support deeper integration and control for specific products from the following manufacturers:

  • Ashly
  • Attero Tech
  • Audinate
  • Audio-Technica
  • CLOCKAUDIO
  • Panasonic
  • Powersoft
  • Shure
  • Stuart Audio
  • Visionary Solutions

To be honest, I am still missing the ability to control Headamps via the Dante network between different Dante enabled devices. So the audio part seems to be pretty standardized and you can easily lock yourself onto a Dante stream. But what about the Remote control data (Gain, 48V phantom power, High Pass Filter)? Is it planned to integrate these data to the Dante protocol as well?

Network support for carrying the data to control adjustable parameters of any Dante-enabled device is already supported. Exposing this control to end users is the responsibility of the manufacturers of Dante equipment. In general, manufacturers will provide their own GUI software to adjust controllable parameters on their own products. The goal that Symetrix, Attero Tech, Stewart Audio, and Audio Technica have is to make control of all manufacturers’ products available in one GUI – in this case SymNet Composer. One GUI, full control of all products.

Can you directly route an input to an output in the same device? For example, input 1 of a Yamaha RIO directly to output 1( maybe output 1, 2 and 3 at the same time without going to a console to process the audio)?

Thank you for your product improvement idea. We will put this into the product management queue.

You mentioned Via as Mac compatible as well as PC, how about Dante Controller and Virtual Soundcard - for other than a PC?

Dante Controller and Dante Virtual Soundcard are available for both Mac and Windows.

We are using Dante now for 2 years without Problems. We have a Gigabit Network here, but some amps have a 100mbit Network Connection, so we set all dante devices @ 1ms latency. Would it be possible to Change that down to 250µs and only the 100MBit amps at 1ms?

Simple answer: yes, it is possible. Latency is configured per receiver and is not required to be a single value for the whole network. You can set the receive latency on the amplifiers to 1ms and the latency on 1Gbps devices to lower than 1ms.

We recommend using the new Dante Controller latency monitoring feature to confirm that it is safe to lower the latency in your 1Gbps network and/or to verify your latency headroom when you have done so.

What are the best ways to minimize latency concerns?

A suggested approach is to use the Dante Controller latency monitoring feature to verify adequate network latency headroom and tune network latency. When designing a network, use of gigabit ethernet links and switches is recommended to reduce latency.

Is Dante software and Virtual Soundcard available for Linux OS ?

Unfortunately, at this time there is no Linux version of the Dante software.

Will Dante Via's intra- computer routing be latency free or close to that ?

Dante Via intra- computer routing will have some latency, but the actual value is not yet determined.

Regarding Dante tools, are you planning to add standard networking protocols like SNMP to monitor audio paths via 3rd party (Scada) systems?

Dante has it’s own control and status protocols to optimize interoperability with all Dante enabled products. Dante licensees do create their own control interfaces that integrate with third party control protocols.

I've seen instances of manufactures who use Dante making static requirements about their unique master clock status. For example a mixing desk and a DSP unit both requiring clock master status to be high. Would inter-operability issues come up if this is the case? Is there a resolution or would these devices be considered incompatible?

There are very few products available that require they be the clock master on a Dante network in order to properly function. In all cases, we encourage the manufacturers to enhance their products so that they allow the maximum flexibility in designing a system. It is never in the manufacturer’s interest to deliberately create a product lacking features that limit its functionality, or ability to work with other manufacturers.

Can you sync the MADI clock and the Dante clock? If so, how?

There are several Dante-MADI bridge products that would allow you to sync a Dante network to a MADI clock, or vice-versa.

Any information about MultiUser features with DanteControl? Possibly some user rights management so not everybody on the network can change routings?

There is not currently a user-level control in Dante Controller, but we are continually developing new features to enhance Dante as a solution.  However, there are several widely used network security standards that can be used to secure a Dante network.

On the local source plate in the court yard, how were you converting that to Dante?

There are at least three options for converting analog audio at a local plate to Dante. You can use a product like the Attero Tech unDX2IO or unD3IO 2-gang Dante wall plates. These devices are PoE powered and move analog audio onto the Dante network right at the wall plate – removing the need for analog wiring in the wall. If this is not possible, analog to Dante interfaces like the Stewart Audio NetAV I/O or the Attero Tech unDIO2x2 or unD4I can often be located in a wall box to make the analog to Dante transition and still minimize analog wiring in the walls. Finally, if analog wiring in the walls cannot be avoided, Attero Tech, Stewart Audio, and Symetrix have a number of analog to Dante I/O interfaces in a variety of channel counts for this purpose. You can also use the Audio-Technica Dante-enabled microphones in some applications and eliminate the wall plate altogether.  Audio-Technica  just released the ATND8677 microphone base (not introduced at the time of this example project) which is a great way to get a gooseneck microphone directly on the network.

Is Dante interoperable with hydra network bluefin Calrec technology?

Calrec is a Dante licensee.

Is the Dante network operating in Multicast?

There is always some multicast traffic in a Dante network, for discovery, clock synchronization, and status updates. Whether the audio is transported via multicast is a user setting in Dante Controller.

If the entire Dante network is reset (via building power shutdown) will the routing take care of itself or will an engineer need to go onsite and re-route the audio via Audinate Controller?

All the subscriptions that were in place before the power down will be restored with no user intervention required. Dante end-points store all of their settings, including audio routing information locally on the end-point.

Will Dante support video at some point? If so, when?

We have demonstrated video over Dante at InfoComm 2012.

Symetrix seems to be leading the way in interoperability. Are you aware of cost savings for installers when using the multi-manufacturer configuration?

Savings come from being able to use the best-in-class targeted device for the application, rather than being forced to develop a system solution based on a single manufacturer’s product offering. Savings also come from minimizing analog wiring infrastructure in favor of CAT5/6. We have found considerable cost savings using Dante for audio end points, especially when using logic I/O. The savings start with using CAT5/6, no costly audio snakes and termination costs, extra conductors for logic I/O and connecting all of the audio and logic I/O virtually in the design software. Not to mention the cost of drilling floor for snake wire, or using RF microphones because wiring to the table is impossible.

Does SymNet Composer assume the functionality of Dante Controller Software?

SymNet Composer can create the subscriptions which is basically what is done in Dante Controller on the routing page. We also add control, setup and monitoring functionality as provided by various manufactures which can’t be done in Dante Controller. An example would be setting the preamp gain and turning on the phantom power for an input on the AtteroTech unDIO2x2 or in the case of the Shure MX Dante Wireless mics we can also monitor things like RF signal strength, battery life, charge state, mic type and whether it is active plus multiple other things.

I've had issue where it was saying no more unicast flows left. I then turned the Rio box and other devices off, then turned back which allowed me to patch. Why was it not allowing more flows?

In most cases, Dante devices place four channels in a single flow. If you are manually patching a device, Dante will add four consecutive patches to a single flow (e.g. 1,2,3,4 then 5,6,7,8 then 9,10,11,12, etc.). Once a flow has been created, Dante will not delete the flow until all channels in the flow have been re-patched. So, if you were to patch as above, you would use three flows for 12 channels. But if you un-patched 2,3,4 and 6,7,8 and 10,11,12, you would still be using three flows, but for only three channels. If you continued to patch channels this way, you could run out of flows quickly By resetting the Dante device, you also allow it to re-organize the channels into fewer flows, and free up more flows for patching.

What was the DVS software?

Dante Virtual Soundcard is a software application that works on Macs or PCs that acts as a soundcard. It allows you to access applications like DAWs, sound effects, iTunes, or Skype and connect to the Dante Network.

I am searching for a microphone with a command button to control things from the microphone directly? Any suggestions?

In the next week or two we will be releasing SymNet Composer 3.0 and adding full support for the Audio-Technica and Shure Dante mics. Both of them have a push to talk button that is fully assignable within our software and can be used to issue a command, trigger a preset, or pretty much anything else you would want to do with it. You can also program the LEDs on the mic to indicate various different states.

I saved a Dante controller full patch and would like to offline edit or just view it on another computer - how can I do that?

The preset file is an easy to understand, plain XML file format. You can open it in your plain text editor of choice.

Is it possible to control Dante Controller via 3rd party controllers such as Crestron?

I think there are two questions here. The first is whether Dante audio routing can be controlled dynamically from 3rd party controllers like Crestron. While this is not possible directly, Attero Tech has a product called the CommandHub that can act as a “proxy” between a Crestron and a Dante network to allow audio routing changes “on the fly”. The second question is whether other controllable aspects of Dante-enabled products can be controlled by Crestron, and the answer here is yes – either directly or through a CommadHub.

Will Audinate be true AVB compliant?

Based on current market feedback, AES support is a higher priority as there are requirements for Layer 3 and the importance if working with standardized network switches. There are no immediate plans in the near future for support of AVB.

If the master clock comes from a non-Dante unit, will Dante Controller 'see' it?

Yes. We chose to use one of the Symetrix processors as the master clock. This was easily set within Dante Controller.

Symnet Composer and Symnet Designer are two different pieces of software. Which one is meant for use with Dante devices?

SymNet Composer.

In one of my Last projects we had eight stage boxes with one Yamaha CL5 console in a modern Cisco house network with two VLANs for primary and secondary Dante. One stage box was in another building in that area that was connected via 10gbit fire connection to the main building. We had two clock master units (one 'in house' and a second from that in a different building) in Dante controller although it was one network and that should not happen as I know. When we pinged the IP address of the stage box in the other building and it was around 400uS, but the Dante Latency tool showed up 25-35mS. How can that difference between ping and latency monitor happen and as a more general question: how can it happen that more clock masters appear in a Dante network?

This is typically caused by multicast traffic being filtered or blocked between to parts of the network. When this happens, the two parts of the network cannot “see” the clocks from the other part, and two master clocks are elected.

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