Audient ASP2802 User manual

OPERATING
MANUAL
Version: 1.00

Page -2-© Audient Ltd
Welcome to ASP2802.................................................. Page 4
Installation................................................................... Page 5
Unpacking, Safety & Mains (Fuse Information) 6
Service, Repair & Ventilation 7
Rack Space 8
Optional Rack Ear Kit 9
Dimensions & Specification 10
Introduction................................................................. Page 11
Feature Set 12
Operational Surface Overview 13
Rear Panel Connections 14
Channel Strip............................................................... Page 15
Input Conditioning 16
Direct Output Routing 23
Psuedo In-Line Functionality 28
Insert Parallel Tip 31
Summing & FX Returns................................................ Page 41
Aux & Cue Masters...................................................... Page 45
Monitor Section........................................................... Page 50
Controls Overview 51
Source Select 52
Headphone Output 56
Talkback 57
Solo Modes 58
VCA Bus Compressor................................................... Page 60
Controls 62
Example Settings 69
Main Mix...................................................................... Page 70
Contents

Page -3-© Audient Ltd
Connections................................................................. Page 74
DB25 Wiring 76
Patchbay Layout.......................................................... Page 82
Patchbay Wiring 83
DAW Ethernet Connection (Mac)................................. Page 84
Manual IP Address Assign 85
Using DHCP 88
DAW Ethernet Connection (PC)................................... Page 89
Manual IP Address Assign 91
Automatic IP Address Assign 94
Firmware Updates........................................................ Page 95
Automation.................................................................. Page 96
Overview 97
Automation Safe 98
Control Surface Overview............................................ Page 99
Example Systems......................................................... Page 101
8 Channel DAW System 104
Hybrid Production System 105
16 Channel Tracking System 106
24 Channel Mixing System 107
Panel Visualisations..................................................... Page 108
Warranty....................................................................... Page 112
Contact Information.................................................... Page 113
Contents

Page -4-© Audient Ltd
Welcome to ASP2802
Thank you for selecting this Audient product.
We hope that your new ASP2802 console will provide
an intuitive, ergonomic and flexible analogue recording
and mixing platform in a powerful yet small package.
We are sure that ASP2802 will deliver a wealth of routing,
control and production flexibility coupled with outstanding
audio quality.
ASP2802 provides an impressive array of connectivity
for its size, featuring high quality signal conditioning, routing,
summing, processing and monitoring capabilities. Add to this
a fully fledged moving fader automation system and integrated
HUITM control surface and this becomes a very powerful console
featuring our all-new Dual Layer Technology.
ASP2802 will adapt to become the centre of your creative
workflow, ideally suited for use in project studio production
spaces, location recording or high quality hybrid mixing
systems.
Let’s take a look!
How to use this manual.
This manual has been divided into sections for your
convenience. Along the way a number of handy tips and
suggestions will offer possible uses and applications for
the console during creative use.
Look out for the “tips and suggestions” boxes!
Any numbers in brackets (xx) refer to control numbers as
found in the overview illustrations in each section.
Mackie HUI™ (Human User Interface) is a registered trademark of LOUD Technologies Inc.

Page -5-© Audient Ltd
Installation

Page -6-© Audient Ltd
Installation
Unpacking
Your ASP2802 Console has been carefully and meticulously
tested and inspected before dispatch.
Please check for any signs of transit damage. If any signs of
mishandling are found please notify the carrier and inform your
dealer immediately.
Your 2802 packaging should include the console, an IEC power
cord, quick start guide and a CD containing in this manual,
signal flow block diagrams and drivers. Please note that rack
ears for ASP2802 are optional.
Important Safety Instructions
Please read all of these instructions and save them for later
reference before connecting to the mains and powering up the
console. To prevent electrical shock and fire hazard follow all
warnings and instructions marked on the rear of the console.
This unit is connected via its IEC power cord to the mains safety
earth.
NEVER OPERATE THIS CONSOLE WITH THIS EARTH
CONNECTION REMOVED.
Internal Switch Mode Power Supply & Mains Fuse
2802 utilises an internal switch-mode power supply that is very
quiet and passively cooled with plenty of current capability and
headroom. This switch-mode design will accept any A.C line
voltage from 90v to 264v. Therefore 2802 will work happily
anywhere in the world but please ensure your A.C mains line
voltage is within this specification. Consult a qualified technician
if you suspect difficulties. Do NOT attempt to tamper with the
power supply or mains voltages - HAZARDOUS TO HEALTH.
Always replace the mains fuse with the correct value - T2A slow
blow.

Page -7-© Audient Ltd
Installation
Service and Repair
The console uses a complex internal PCB sandwich arrangement
making field service only possible by a qualified technician.
If any technical issues do arise with your console, please
contact your dealer as soon as possible to arrange for technical
support.
Do NOT attempt to fix the console unless qualified to do so.
See the warranty section provided at the end of this manual for
details of your cover.
Ventilation
Care should be taken not to obstruct the series of ventilation
holes in the metalwork of the console. The desk is designed to
release heat and take adequate air flow via these holes to
ensure longevity of performance.
These can be found along the left hand bottom edge on the side
panel (below the cheek), the rear top wrap-around ventilation
panel and below the faders at the foot of the console.
If mounting the console into some form of studio furniture or
desk, please ensure that there are sufficient air gaps at these
locations.

Page -8-© Audient Ltd
Installation
Rack Mounted Ventilation
The console can also be rack mounted
with the rack ear kit and will occupy
13RU plus connector space (suggest
15RU total) - please ensure that these
ventilation holes are not restricted.
A vented 19” blanking plate is
recommended to cover the connector
space, providing adequate air flow
to the top ventilation plate.
Lexan Overlay
The front panel at the top of
ASP2802 (dark section only)
features a rugged under-surface
printed polycarbonate overlay.
Exposure to direct sunlight for
extended periods of time should
be avoided as this can have a
detrimental effect on the overlay
panel and the control knobs.
However at least the panel legending will not wear off like
some of the silk screened or engraved products of yesteryear!
Power Up
On power up, please check that the power rail
indicators for +48v d.c and +/-18v d.c
light on the top right hand side of the console.

Page -9-© Audient Ltd
Installation
Optional Rack Ear Kit - Installation

Page -10-© Audient Ltd
Installation
ASP2802 Dimensions (including rubber feet)
Height Front - 60 mm Height Rear - 170 mm
Width - 450 mm
Depth - 550 mm Height (depth) when racked
13RU plus connector space
15RU
ASP2802 Specifications
Some general performance figures from the console - taken with
Prism D-Scope test equipment.
Frequency Response +/- 0.3 dB 20 Hz to 20 kHz
THD + Noise <0.015% @ 1 kHz
Noise Mic EIN (20 Hz to 20 kHz, 150 ohm
source < -127.5 dBu
Bus Noise All inputs routed < -80 dBu
Mic CMRR 70 dB (min. gain)

Page -11-© Audient Ltd
ASP2802 has many features including 8 channels of Class-A
hybrid discrete microphone preamplifier as used in our time
honoured ASP8024 console and ASP008 8-channel microphone
preamplifier, guaranteeing outstanding sonic transparency and
detail.
When combined with useful LED bargraph metering, input
signal conditioning, freely assignable direct outputs and
comprehensive cue monitoring options, ASP2802 is right at
home in a small location recording or tracking environment.
A rear panel full of high quality locking XLR, TRS and 25-pin
D-Sub connectors (wired to Tascam DA-88 pinout specification,
page 42) ensures it is simple and quick to integrate your AD/DA
converters, favourite outboard and existing microphone
preamplifiers.
ASP2802 is equally comfortable as a hybrid mixing tool -
featuring a DAW HUITM control surface combined with 8
channels of analogue fader automation and up to 30 main
inputs on mixdown.
The high number of inputs in such a small package is achieved
via 16 inputs in the channels (alternative cue input used) plus a
further 14 inputs (4 stereo summing input pairs, 2 stereo FX
returns and stereo DAW Mix input) in the master section.
Combined with 2 aux sends (plus stereo cue depending upon
cue destination or alternative input usage), inserts, dedicated
DAW returns, mix bus parallel insert mode, classic Audient
summing, patchable VCA bus compressor and a high quality
centre section complete with mono, dim, phase and talkback
communications - any eventuality is covered.
Get ready to unleash the power of this formidable but neatly
packaged mini console.
Introduction

Page -12-© Audient Ltd
• 8 class-A hybrid discrete microphone
preamplifers
• 8 balanced line inputs
• 8 balanced DAW inputs
• 8 balanced assignable direct outputs
• Input conditioning functions such as
48V phantom power, polarity reverse
and a 75Hz high pass filter
• Balanced, switchable inserts on
channels 1-8 and main mix. Main mix
insert has a sum feature to facilitate
parallel processing. Note that all insert
sends are permanently active
• 2 Auxiliary sends globally switched for
pre or post fader operation
• Channels 1-8 feature VCA automation
that can be controlled directly from
your DAW
• Channels 1-8 feature click-free silent
muting
• LED bargraph channel metering
which can follow either channel input,
channel output or DAW channels as
provided from the control surface
• Channel 1-8 ‘unity’ function for
quick set up if mixing ‘in the box’ but
summing via ASP2802
• Stereo cue with alternative input
functionality to expand number of
channel inputs from 8 to 16
• Flexible cue section with summed
source selection, built-in talkback
communications with provision for an
external talkback microphone and 48V
phantom power if desired
• Fully featured 8-fader HUITM based
control surface with jog/shuttle wheel,
transport panel, 4 rotary encoders
and OLED channel display
• On-board VCA bus compressor with
wet/dry blend and patchable inputs /
outputs
• 2 Stereo FX returns with mono mode,
balance and level controls, plus routing
to either cue or mix bus
• 8 channel summing input (4 stereo
pairs) with mono mode, balance and
level controls plus routing to either cue
or mix bus
• Fully featured monitor section with
source selection, including i-jack
front panel input. Monitor section
includes mono, polarity reverse, cut
left, cut right, dim, volume and speaker
selection
• ALPS 100mm faders (channels are
motorized and master fader is manual)
• i-Jack consumer level front panel
monitor input for MP3 players etc
• Solo-in-front
• Solo-in-place
• Solo safe
• Channel automation safe function
• Attractive black livery
• Internal passively cooled power supply
• Audient Dual Layer Technology
Introduction
ASP2802 Feature Set

Page -13-© Audient Ltd
Operational Surface Overview
Introduction

Page -14-© Audient Ltd
Rear Panel Connections Overview
Introduction

Channel Strip Overview

Page -16-© Audient Ltd
ASP2802 features 8 high quality, flexible channel strips with a
multitude of routing options.
The channel strips are located on the left side of the console and
the ergonomic, inclined profile (approx. 12o) of ASP2802
ensures all controls are clearly visible and within arms reach.
There are three main channel inputs:
• Mic
• Line
• DAW
Each of these inputs is fed from their own rear panel connectors
(Mic - Female XLR, Line - 1/4” TRS Jack and DAW - DB25
Female).
For more information and specifications see the connections
section or block diagrams.
Input Conditioning
The microphone preamplifier provides 6 to 60 dB of clean gain,
delivered from our classic hybrid discrete class-A transistor and
integrated circuit design. 48v phantom power and an input
impedance of >2k5 ohms ensure that you will get the most from
your microphones.
Two features that should be very useful during tracking are
available on either the microphone preamplifier or line input
paths (if using boutique external microphone preamplifiers) are
the 75 Hz high pass filter and polarity reverse.
The HPF enables you to remove any rumble or subsonic noise
and polarity invert provides alignment of sources (for example
snare top and snare bottom). These features are tied to the mic/
line path and are not available on the DAW input - however
these are easily performed ‘in the box’ during mixing.
Channel Strip

Page -17-© Audient Ltd
Channel Strip
The three input stages and basic signal flow of the ASP2802
input conditioning stage is illustrated below:
The mic/line path normally feeds the main channel path, this
path features the configurable direct output and as such is the
default recording path.
In typical operation it would be common to use the DAW input
as the return path from your workstation outputs and use the
mic/line path for recording (as psuedo in-line functionality is
entirely possible with the direct output options).
It is possible to monitor the post record path (commonly referred
to as tape) via the DAW input when assigned to the alternative
cue input, providing a psuedo in-line short and long fader style
of operation for those familiar with traditional in-line consoles.
With two line inputs per channel (DAW and line), and a flexible
cue send with alternative input (fed from whichever of these is
not feeding the main channel path) an 8 channel ASP2802 can
provide 16 dedicated line inputs for mixdown along with a large
number of extra inputs in a dedicated FX return section.

Page -18-© Audient Ltd
Channel Strip

Page -19-© Audient Ltd
Peak Reading Bargraph Meter
A 10-segment LED bargraph meter with peak detection and a
separate overload indication LED, suitable for use in today’s
modern digital recording environment.
6 dB per segment in the lower region of the meter (-36 to -18
dB) and 4 dB per segment in the middle region (-18 to -6 dB)
with 2 dB per segment in the top region of the meter for greater
resolution.
0VU is the centre of the scale and calibrated to a nominal
operating level of +4 dBu. Which in turn is relative to a typical
EBU calibration of +18 dBu = 0 dBFS. 0 dBFS is your absolute
maximum digital level (full scale) and should be avoided at all
costs - digital clipping is not a pleasant sound.
As such the bargraph meter scale on ASP2802 is calibrated in
dBFS, such that +4 dBu = 0VU = -14 dBFS. Therefore, a nominal
operating level of 0VU will result in 14 dB of headroom in your
digital recording platform (providing your AD/DA converters are
aligned to 0 dBFS = +18 dBu.
14 dB of headroom is very useful as most music sources (except
for the huge dynamic range of an orchestra) have crest factors
(the difference between average [RMS] and peak level) of around
12-20 dB. Therefore ASP2802 provides some headroom for your
beautifully crisp transient sources.
Channel Strip

Page -20-© Audient Ltd
Channel Strip
Channel Meter Global Select - (MTR)
This switch is located in the centre section of the
console below the main mix and compression
gain reduction metering. This globally alters the
source to the peak reading bargraph meter at the
top of each channel strip. Note that this can be
overridden if using the meters to display DAW
channel metering values in control surface operation
(DAW Meters function).
In the UP position, the channel input path feeds the meter,
taken before the channel trim control (9) but after the mic/line
and DAW flip (4 & 8) routing selections. When engaged into
the DOWN position, the meter takes its feed from the the direct
output feed. Thus, its exact location is determined by the routing
selections made in the direct output assign section (7) - see later
in this chapter.