AMS Neve CAPRICORN User manual

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USER MANUAL
527-140
Issue 5.1
CAPRICORN

1 Introduction
Overview 1:1
Concepts of Allocating Processing 1:4
The Console Surface 1:6
The Graphics Display 1:26
2Getting Started
Using the Trackball with the Graphics Display 2:2
Logging on to the system 2:4
Using the Soft Panel Menus 2:7
Bank Assignments 2:10
Using Console Surface Controls 2:11
Using the AFU 2:13
Further Information 2:14
3Console Setup
Introduction 3:1
Configuration Management 3:3
Backup and Restore 3:9
Path Numbers 3:15
Strip Assignment To Banks 3:17
4Path Configuration
Naming a Path 4:2
Assigning a Path to new Fader 4:4
Processing Configuration 4:5
Signal Matrix 4:11
5Input/Output Configuration
Ports and Paths 5:1
To Assign Ports to Paths 5:2
Inserts 5:14
Multitrack Tape Machine Interconnection 5:18
Capricorn User Manual Contents
Issue 5.1 Page i

6 Miscellaneous Setup
Sample Frequency 6:2
Desk Level 6:3
Delay Times 6:5
Intensity 6:7
Touch 6:8
Gearing 6:9
External 6:11
Options 6:14
MIDI 6:20
7Routing
Routing 7:2
Interrogation 7:5
Other Routing Panel Functions 7:6
8Monitoring
Monitoring Controls 8:2
Control Room Monitoring 8:4
SLS and Headphone Monitoring 8:7
Overdub Monitoring 8:9
Solo 8:12
Mute 8:22
9Metering
Meter Scale 9:2
Overload 9:2
Meter Operation 9:3
Channel strip Meter Mode Selection 9:8
Monitor Meters 9:9
Contents Capricorn User Manual
Page ii Issue 5.1

10 Signal Processing
Using Channel Strip Banks 10:1
Function Indicators 10:3
Input Paths 10:4
Monitor Signal Paths 10:8
Track Sends 10:9
4-Band Parametric Equalizer 10:13
Filters 10:15
Dynamics 10:16
Signal Path Delay (Optional) 10:25
Insert Switching 10:26
Copying 10:27
Fader to Aux Copy 10:29
11 Auxiliaries and Cues
Aux Control 11:1
Contribution Control 11:3
Aux Flip 11:6
Cue Sends 11:8
12 Links and VCA Ganging
Control Links 12:1
VCA Control 12:7
13 Oscillator
Tone oscillator 13:1
Slate Oscillator 13:3
14 Talkback
Talkback Setup 14:1
Talkback Group Levels 14:4
15 Transport Control
Machine Control 15:2
Track Control 15:4
Timecode 15:7
Labels 15:15
Cycle 15:22
Auto Record 15:23
Locating 15:24
Capricorn User Manual Contents
Issue 5.1 Page iii

16 Automation Overview
Introduction 16:1
Automation Controls 16:3
Scope 16:5
Automation Modes 16:6
Mixes, Passes and the Mix Tree 16:8
Automation Data Storage 16:11
17 Automation Operations
Automation Quick Start 17:1
Automation Data 17:3
Scope 17:8
Managing Mixes and Passes 17:15
Play Pass Selection 17:21
Automation Modes 17:23
Collect Touch 17:33
Capture Start Of Pass Timecode 17:36
Initial Snapshot (ISS) Amendment 17:38
Mute/Switch Lists 17:40
Relay Event List 17:45
18 Offline Editing
Offline Trim 18:2
Offline Delete 18:4
Mix Conform 18:5
Slide 18:9
Mix Compare 18:10
19 Stores
The Store List 19:2
Recalling Stores 19:5
Browse Stores 19:6
Sequenced Stores List 19:9
20 Capricorn Surround
Standard Surround Features 20:2
CXS 20:7
Joystick Module 20:35
Capricorn Surround Panel (CSP) 20:41
Contents Capricorn User Manual
Page iv Issue 5.1

21 MIDI
MIDI Program Changes 21:1
MIDI Automation 21:2
22 Diagnostics
DSP 22:2
Logs 22:6
IO Reset 22:7
Diags 22:8
23 Index
Capricorn User Manual Contents
Issue 5.1 Page v

Contents Capricorn User Manual
Page vi Issue 5.1

1 Introduction
1.1 Overview
The Capricorn recording system represents innovative audio technology at its
very best. Award winning custom designed integrated circuits give unsurpassed
digital sonic performance. The system electronics are remote from the actual
console surface, being rack-mounted in a separate unit. The graphical interface
and intuitive console surface enable real-time dynamic automation and fast and
accurate system setup.
The console surface sections and many of the individual controls are assignable
so that they can be used for a variety of different signal paths and signal
processing functions. The degree of assignability is designed to maximize
simplicity and ease of use with any function being accessible with just one or two
key-strokes, allowing changes to be made in signal path processing quickly and
efficiently.
The console surface is totally modular and each of the sections are
self-contained with their own PSUs (power supply units), making it easier to
insert or remove sections, or to make changes to the position of existing
sections.
1.1.1 The Assignable Console
Capricorn is an assignable console which means that one strip of controls for
each input and output is no longer needed. An assignable console allows a few
faders and controls to control any system size. On analogue consoles all the
facilities have to be squeezed into each channel strip which restricts the facilities
available and can make the control surface difficult to use. On Capricorn there
are still a number of controls on each channel strip for immediate use. These
controls are laid out so that they can be easily reached.
For control of a function that is not on the strip, a central panel called the
Assignable Facilities Unit (AFU) is assigned to the path on the strip by pressing
the key. The AFU has every control for that strip, just like a traditional
console. The AFU is large so that all controls are easily seen and reached. The
AFU can be positioned in the centre of the stereo image so that all adjustments
can be made while listening in the optimum monitoring position.
The channel strips are used for a number of different purposes so motorized
faders and continuous rotary encoders are used throughout. When a strip is
reassigned the fader will move to the position for the new signal path and circular
bargraph displays around the rotary encoders will show the new setting.
Capricorn User Manual Introduction
Issue 5.1 Page1:1
ACCESS

1.1.2 Multi-user Operation
The console can have up to 5 sections of 24 strips giving a maximum of 120
faders. Up to 3 AFUs can also be fitted, and each AFU can be linked to a different
section of strips so that the console can be used by several people at a time.
When an key is pressed only the AFU associated with that strip is
reassigned so that an operator working on another AFU is not affected.
Note: During split working there are still only 12 global fader banks and each split
unit does not have its own set of banks. However, when a new bank is selected
only the strips associated with that AFU will be reassigned.
The global functions which override SPLIT divisions are:
Reverse routing and interrogation
Link formation and interrogation
1.1.3 Hard Disk Organisation
The hard disk is partitioned into three notional areas - System, User and Project.
These partitions are maintained by the System Manager who requires a
password to enable access to the various housekeeping functions such as
deleting and moving data.
System Partition
The System Partition contains all the files needed for running the system, and is
not directly accessible to the user. These files include down-loadable code and
data for all the node processors, tables of defaults and command and fault logs.
The System Manager has access to some data in the System Partition (e.g. the
command and fault logs) through special utilities but cannot normally edit or
delete files in this area.
User Partition
The User Partition is subdivided into areas, or directories, for each user. This
partition holds configuration data that defines desk setups. Each user can have
a number of configurations which can be recalled in part or in full at any time. It is
necessary to log on to the system as a named user in order to create and store
personalised data. If the operator does not log on then data is stored in the
Default user area which may be used by anyone.
User directories can be created and removed only by the System Manager.
Each user directory can contain console setups and default information to
customise the operation of the system. Each user directory can be protected by
a personal password.
Introduction Capricorn User Manual
Page1:2 Issue 5.1
ACCESS

Project Partition
The Project Partition is the area of the storage system which contains dynamic
automation data including all the system configurations, mix data, cue lists and
notes for particular jobs. The partition is divided into Client directories, beneath
which are Project directories and beneath these are Title directories. For
example, an album project will have several titles, each of which contains its
individual mix tree.
A default scratch mix directory is provided for general use. This can be
convenient for quick, unplanned operations which do not need the data
preserving (e.g. testing a procedure).
Client directories and sub-directories can be created by any user, but may only
be removed by the System Manager. Client data can be password protected in
the same way as user data.
Copying data to and from removable disks
The system allows the user to transfer data to and from removable Optical Disks
and Floppy disks (if the drive is fitted). This enables both mix data and system
configurations to be copied between Capricorn systems or archived. This
procedure can also be used to back-up data, however the facility to back-up the
whole of the Hard Disk onto Optical disk is a more thorough and rapid backup
mechanism. It is recommended that the complete backup operation is
performed weekly, this operation is described in the technical manual.
Floppy disks can hold configuration data only.
Capricorn User Manual Introduction
Issue 5.1 Page1:3
CLIENT
PROJECT1
PROJECT2
TITLE1
TITLE2
TITLE1
TITLE2
MIX0.0 MIX TREE
MIX0.0 MIX TREE
MIX0.0 MIX TREE
MIX0.0 MIX TREE

1.2 Concepts of Allocating Processing
The Capricorn is a digital console which uses software controlled processing
power to provide signal paths and signal processing elements such as EQ,
Compressor and Filter. Processing elements can be put in any order on a signal
path. Processing is assigned to the paths as needed by the operator, using the
Path Configuration screen on the Graphics Display monitor.
Inputs, Monitors, Groups, Outputs, Aux Masters and Cues are the types of
signal path. The number of each type of signal path is set up by the operator and
will depend on the type of session. Configurations can be stored and recalled.
The size of a Capricorn system will define the maximum number of all signal
paths. The maximum number of each type of signal path is:
Input Paths - Limited by number of PCBs fitted
Monitor Paths - Limited by number of PCBs fitted
Group Paths - 24
Main Output Paths - 8
Aux Master Paths - 16
Cue Paths - 16
Any type of signal path can be configured as stereo and will use two signal
paths. All controls are ganged together so that identical processing is applied to
the left and right channels.
1.2.1 Path Structure
Introduction Capricorn User Manual
Page1:4 Issue 5.1
MULTI-TRACK
MON
(Track Return)
CUE
AUX
(Pre or Post)
AUX
(Pre or Post)
AUX
(Pre or Post)
INPUT/GROUP/MON
OUTPUT
EXTERNAL
SOURCE
TRACK
SEND
INPUT
MAIN
OUTPUT
GROUP
Mic/Line
or AES/EBU
AUX
MASTER

Input, Monitor, Group, Aux, Cue and Main Output paths can be configured with
EQ, Filter, Limiter, Compressor and Expander/Gate.
Track Send paths do not exist in the same way as other signals and the level for
them is controlled via the screen only.
1.2.2 Signal Ports
Since the routing within Capricorn is inherently flexible, the port (or connector)
that feeds a signal path can be changed. This gives the operator a number of
advantages.
1. External equipment can be permanently connected to a patch
bay and then patched to an input or output through software
using the screen.
2. If an error or fault occurs on an external I/O rack the operator
can patch around the problem
3. The ports can be changed during a ‘scene change’ so that the
same channels can be used to control different sources.
Usually the ports will remain assigned to the same path and the selector will be
transparent to the operator since it is recalled from the configuration store.
Capricorn User Manual Introduction
Issue 5.1 Page1:5

1.3 The Console Surface
There are three type of section in a Capricorn console surface:
Strip Sections Contain the Path (or Channel) Strips.
Each Strip Section has eight Path Strips.
A Capricorn will have at least 24 Path Strips (i.e. 3 Strip
Sections).
Monitor Section Contains master controls for tape machines, monitoring,
etc., and the keyboard and trackball for controlling the
graphics display.
AFU Section Contains controls for routing and all the processing and
signal elements which can be assigned to a path.
Introduction Capricorn User Manual
Page1:6 Issue 5.1

1.3.1 Strip Section
Each strip section contains eight
strips. There is no correlation
between the number of strips and the
electrical size of the system. Any
console frame size can therefore
control and operate any system size.
The strip differs from a traditional
channel strip in various ways. It is
assignable to a number of audio
paths and path types. Facilities such
as EQ and dynamics are removed
from the strip and placed in an
Assignable Facilities Unit (AFU). All
functions can still be accessed from
the strip by using the Function
Assignable Controls.
The Function Assignable Controls
(FACs) are rotary controls which use
shaft-encoders rather than
conventional potentiometers. Each
FAC has a circular bargraph
surrounding it which illuminates in
different ways depending on the
parameter being controlled.
Capricorn User Manual Introduction
Issue 5.1 Page1:7
Meters
FAC Indicators
and
Function Selection
FAC Automation
FACs
(Function
Assignable
Controls)
Monitoring
Solo and Link Isolate
Mute and
Mute Automation
Fader
Automation
Path Type Indicators
Access
Faders

Meters
Each channel strip has a Vacuum
Fluorescent Display (VFD) to show
metering information.
The lower part of the display is used
to show the signal on the channel
strip, the upper part is used for high
resolution metering and its mode is
selected on the AFU.
If the signals are stereo then two
bars will be shown on the input meter
and high resolution meter.
The VFDs are high resolution dot
matrix displays and can also be used
to show non-metering information
such as path configuration.
FAC Indicators and Selector
The FAC indicators show which
signal processing elements have
been assigned to the Path in the strip
and which elements are switched in
and out.
The key is used to cycle the
function which will be switched in
and out.
FAC Automation
Used for setting the Automation
Mode of all controls except the Fader
and the Mute key.
Collect Touch will put all controls in
the path into touch (including the
Fader and the Mute key) except
those which have been isolated from
the automation system.
Introduction Capricorn User Manual
Page1:8 Issue 5.1
TR20
SIGNAL PATH
METER
RECORD
STATUS LEDs
METER LABEL
METERS SHOWING
LEFT AND RIGHT INPUT LEVEL
AND COMP/LIM, EXP/GATE
STATUS
OVERLOAD
INDICATOR LEDs
INPUT OVERLOAD
INDICATORS
REFERENCE LEVEL
INDICATORS
SIGNAL OVERLOAD
INDICATORS
SEL
E/G
EQ
COM
INS
IN
LIM
DEL
48V
STRΦ
FIL
IN SEL
SEL
PLAY
REC
GLIDE
COL
TOUCH

FACs (Function Assignable Controls)
The Function Assignable Controls
are the rotary controls on each path
strip. They can be used for different
functions according to the FAC
Selection keys on the AFU. The
function of the two centre rotary
controls are indicated on the AFU.
Nominally the top FAC is for input
functions such as Mic/Line Gain, the
middle two are for auxilliary
contributions and the bottom FAC is
for Pan. A 4-digit alphanumeric
display above the top FAC shows
either the status of the assignments
or the precise numeric value of the
last control touched.
Monitoring
The monitoring controls are only
used on the monitor paths for
monitor source selection and are
inactive for other path types.
Solo and Link Isolate
Used to Solo the path assigned to
the strip and exclude individual
controls from a link structure.
Solo has three modes (Cut Solo,
APL or PFL) which are set globally.
Capricorn User Manual Introduction
Issue 5.1 Page1:9
8888
SEND
O/D
RET
LOCK
MUTE
MUTE
PLAY
SOLO
MUTE
REC
LINK
ISO

Mute and Mute Automation
Mute is used for pre-fader cut of the
signal currently assigned to the strip.
Mute keys also have their own keys
for setting automation modes.
Fader Automation
Used to set the automation mode for
the fader in the path currently
assigned to the strip.
Path Type Indication
The type of signal path the strip is assigned to is indicated by 6 LEDs which
illuminate to show Group, VCA, Auxiliary, Input, Monitor or Output.
The VCA LED together with the
channel path LED to show that the
channel is under control of a VCA.
Access
Two keys are provided in each strip to assign the processing controls of
the Assignable Facilities Unit (AFU) to the selected path.The keys are
also used for routing, link and copy functions.
The two keys allow two banks
to be assigned across the console,
primary on the upper key and
secondary on the lower key. The
paths in each bank are shown on the
4-digit alpha displays. Illumination of
the display is bright for the active
path and dim for the passive path.
Pressing the key for the
passive path makes it active.
Introduction Capricorn User Manual
Page1:10 Issue 5.1
MUTE
MUTE
PLAY
SOLO
MUTE
REC
LINK
ISO
TRIM
FDR
PLAY
GLIDE
FDR
REC
GRP
I/P
VCA
MON
AUX
O/P
ACCESS
ACCESS
ACCESS
ACCESS
ACCESS
ACCESS
8888
8888

Faders
The faders are touch sensitive, motorised and automated so that fader moves
may be stored and replayed. The faders may also be linked together in groups,
one fader controlling the movement of all faders linked to it. Audio does not pass
through the fader so they can be assigned to other functions such as Aux Gain or
trim controls.
The right hand scale (-8 to +10dB)
shows the gain or attenuation
applied to the signal by the fader.
The left hand scale (-20 to +20dB)
indicates the offset which may be
applied to the fader while in trim
mode. This enables a static or
dynamic offset to be applied to
previously recorded fader moves.
Arrow shaped LEDs are provided to
show which way the fader knob must
be moved to reach the null position.
Once the fader is nulled both LEDs
go out. Other methods of nulling are
available through the automation
system.
Capricorn User Manual Introduction
Issue 5.1 Page1:11
10
5
0
5
10
20
30
40
8
+
-
20
10
0
10
20

1.3.2 AFU Section
The Assignable Facilities Unit (AFU) contains individual controls for auxiliaries,
EQ, dynamics, routing, etc. This provides the currently accessed strip with all
the controls necessary for the processing elements which can be assigned to a
path. The AFU removes the need to have individual controls for every function
on every strip. Up to three AFUs may be fitted for multi-man operation. The AFU
controls are accessed by pressing the key for the required path.
Control Duplication
The left hand side of the AFU duplicates the controls on a strip, except the FACs
are replaced by the Strip FAC Selector controls which are used to globally
assign functions to the strip FACs. The access section is also different, with Aux,
Hold and strip stepping keys in place of the secondary key and its alpha
display.
Introduction Capricorn User Manual
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ACCESS
AFU Fader
and Script Area
Routing
Control Reset
Meter Select
Track Contribution
Auxiliaries/Panning
Duplicate FAC Indication
Strip FAC Selector
Input Selection, Gain,
Trim and Balance
AFU Graphic Display
Delay
Expander/Gate
Width and Pan/Balance
Compressor
Limiter
Sidechain
Insert
4-Band Equaliser
Filter
Bank Selection
AFU Automation
Access, Aux and Hold
Duplicate Strip Controls
ACCESS

Control Reset
Used to reset controls to the default
null or 0dB position.
Meter Select
Used to select the signal shown on
the VFD meters at the top of the path
strips. A graphic mode is also
available, which causes the VFDs to
display alternative information such
as path configuration.
Routing
The Routing panel is used to control and interrogate routing to tracks,
sub-groups and main outputs. The Routing panel is also used when setting up
track sends for film stems.
Capricorn User Manual Introduction
Issue 5.1 Page1:13
AFU
FLAT
FDR
FLAT
CONTROL
RESET
MTR
RESET
METER
SELECT
FOL FADER
TRK SEND
TRK/RET A
TRK/RET B
GRAPHIC
41
INTER
LOCK
43 45 47 42 44 46 48
CLEAR
33 35 37 39 34 36 38 40
25 27 29 31 26 28 30 32
17 17 19 19 21 2123 23 18 18 20 20 22 2224 24
99 11 11 13 1315 15 10 10 12 12 14 1416 16
11
1
33
3
55
5
7 7
7
22
2
44
4
66
6
FILM
MODE
MS
DUAL
MONO
STEM
SEL
8 8
8
TRACK ROUTING GROUP ROUTING
OUTPUT ROUTING
ROUTING
TOUCH
ROUTE