4
IntroductIon
Thank you for purchasing the TAPCO Link.FireWire Audio Interface
for digital recording systems. This is a complete, compact solution for
computer-based music production on either a Macintosh or a PC.
The Link.FireWire is a 4x6 audio interface that is powered directly off
the FireWire connection (or by the included external power supply), and
also includes Tracktion 2.1, our powerful audio and MIDI sequencing
software for digital recording. This hardware and software combination
provides all you need to record and create wonderful music using your
laptop or desktop computer.
The Link.FireWire Interface
The Link.FireWire interface provides either two analog audio inputs
that can accept microphone level, line level, or direct instrument input
signals, or a stereo S/PDIF digital input. The analog audio signals are
routed to high-quality ADCs (Analog-to-Digital Converters) operating at
44.1, 48, 88.2, or 96 kHz with 24-bits. The digital signals are then routed
to the FireWire port for connection to your computer.
The analog inputs are “combo” jacks that accept either a mic-level
balanced XLR connector or a line-level (or instrument-level if the INSTR
button is pushed in) balanced or unbalanced 1/4" TRS or TS connector.
Stereo master mixes can also be transferred from your host computer
back to the Link.FireWire for monitoring during tracking or overdubbing.
Monitoring is provided by the headphone jack on the front and by
balanced outputs on the back, which can be connected to your studio
monitors. The Monitor outputs and Phones output each have their own
level controls. The master mix also appears on the S/PDIF stereo output.
Note:
The Link.FireWire provides two output streams from the DAW
that is mirrored on the Phones, Monitor, and S/PDIF outputs. Alternate
firmware is available on our website to configure the Link.FireWire so
that it provides six discrete output streams from the DAW. See “Two
Modes of Operation” on page 7 for more information.
Bundled Software
The Link.FireWire comes with some powerful software to get you started
with your own desktop multitrack audio recording music production studio.
Tracktion
is an easy-to-use multitrack audio recording and MIDI sequencing
software application, capable of unlimited track count, VST support,
automation, and much more. It comes with a variety of EQ, compressor, and
effects plug-in processors for creating exactly the sound you want.
