Calrec SIGMA User manual
SIGMA OPERATOR MANUAL V2.8
calrec.com Putting Sound in the Picture
with Bluefin HDSP
Calrec Audio Ltd
Nutclough Mill
Hebden Bridge
West Yorkshire
England UK
HX7 8EZ
Tel +44 (0)1422 842159
Fax +44 (0)1422 845244
Email Enquiries@calrec.com
calrec.com
No part of this document may be reproduced
or transmitted in any form or by any means,
electronic or mechanical, including photocopying
and scanning, for any purpose, without the prior
written consent of Calrec Audio Ltd.
Whilst the Company ensures that all details
in this document are correct at the time of
publication, we reserve the right to alter
specifications and equipment without notice. Any
changes we make will be reflected in subsequent
issues of this document. The latest version will
be available upon request. This publication
is for International usage.
Calrec Audio Ltd reserve the right to change
specifications without notice. E & O.E.
The established policy of Calrec Audio
Ltd. is to seek improvements to the design,
specifications and manufacture of all products.
It is not always possible to provide notice outside
the company of the alterations that take place
continually.
Despite considerable effort to produce up to
date information, no literature published by
the company nor any other material that may
be provided should be regarded as an infallible
guide to the specifications available nor does
it constitute an offer for sale of any particular
product.
Alpha and Hydra are registered trademarks of
Calrec Audio Ltd. is a registered trade
mark of Dolby Laboratories, Inc. All other trade
marks are acknowledged.
© 2010 Calrec Audio Ltd. All Rights Reserved.
SIGMA
CONTENTS
Important Information 4
Health and Safety 5
Technical Support 6
Overview 7
Introduction 8
Principal Features 9
System Specification 10
Layering And Assignable Control 11
Paths And Ports 12
Signal Paths 13
Inputs and Outputs 14
Getting Started 15
Touch Screen Layout 16
Error Messages (AWACS) 17
Fader Area 19
Channel and Group Faders 20
Channel Control 21
Assignable Fader 22
VCA Grouping 23
Automatic Cross-Fading 24
Layer Locking 26
5.1 Surround 27
5.1 Surround Channels 28
Points to Remember 31
Input and Output Controls 33
I/O Matrix 34
Input/Output Controls 36
Direct Output and Mix Minus 37
Stereo and Surround Panning 38
Motorized Joystick Panel 39
Delay 40
Channel Functions 41
User-Chan Screen 42
EQ and Filters 44
Dynamics 45
Channel Copy 46
Broadcast Facilities 47
Console Functions 48
Busses 49
Routing and Track Output Controls 50
Routing Matrix 52
Main Outputs 53
Busses Screen 54
Auxiliaries 55
Talkback 56
Oscillator Screen 57
Memories 59
Memory Controls 60
Memory Set Up Screen 61
Memory Isolation 62
Partial Memories 63
Monitoring System 65
Assignable Monitoring & Metering 66
Monitor Panel Setup 67
Saving and Restoring Configurations 68
Misc Output and Meters 69
Control Room Misc Functions 70
Decoder Remotes 71
Metering System 73
TFT Meters 74
TFT Meter Setup Screen 75
Adjusting TFT Screen Layout 76
Meter Configuration 77
TFT Configuration Examples 78
Saving and Restoring Configurations 81
On-Screen Patching 83
Input ports 84
Output Ports 85
Assignable Insert Sends 86
Assignable Insert Returns 87
Insert Screen 88
Main Insert Sends 89
Main Insert Returns 90
Monitoring, Talkback And Oscillator
Outputs 91
Direct Output Ports 92
External Meter Output Ports 92
Input-Output Ports 93
Direct Input Ports 93
Input Usage Screen 94
Port List Management 95
Port List Allocation 96
Port List Order 97
Sorting and Managing Port Lists 98
Saving and Restoring Lists 99
Engineering Information 101
Tech Screen 102
Operational Modes 103
Miscellaneous Screen 104
Synchronization Screen 105
Talkback And Tone Inputs 106
External Monitor Inputs 107
External Meter Inputs 108
States Screen 109
Condition Switching 110
General Purpose Outputs Screen 111
General Purpose Inputs 112
Serial Interface 113
Router Label Setup Screen 114
Router Label Association Screen 115
M A D I 116
PC Information 117
File Backup 118
Hydra Audio Networking 119
Hydra Technology 120
Typical Hydra Network Example 121
Hydra I/O Boxes 122
Fixed format boxes 123
SDI Boxes 125
Modular Hydra I/O Boxes 126
Modular Hydra PSU 127
Modular I/O Box Configuration 128
Network Configuration 129
Hydra I/O Source Lists 130
Device Status 131
Patching Hydra Sources 132
Source Ownership 133
SDI inputs 134
Setup Application 135
Setup Application 136
Console Settings 137
Meters / Levels 140
Monitoring 142
Inputs and Outputs 145
Inserts 146
Main Line Mon 147
Programming Utility 149
Programming Utility 150
Appendix A - Offline Editor 155
Part 1 - On The Console PC 156
Part 2 - On The Laptop PC 157
Part 3 - On The Console PC 160
Appendix B - Style 1 Faders 161
Channel And Group Faders (Style 1) 162
Appendix C - Traditional Style
Monitor Panel 163
Traditional Style Monitor panel 164
Monitor Selector Set Up 166
Monitor LS Set Up 167
States Screen 168
Appendix D - Version Changes 169
Version Changes 170
4 SIGMA with Bluefin
After Sales Modifications
Please be aware that any modifications
other than those made or approved by
Calrec Audio Limited or their agents, may
invalidate the console’s warranty. This
includes changes to cabling provided by
Calrec and variations to the recommended
installation as detailed in Calrec
documentation.
Modifications to this equipment by any
party other than Calrec Audio Limited
may invalidate EMC and safety features
designed into this equipment. Calrec Audio
Limited can not be liable for any legal
proceedings or problems that may arise
relating to such modifications.
If in doubt, please contact Calrec Audio
Limited for guidance prior to commencing
any modification work.
IMPORTANT INfORMATION
ESD (Static) Handling Procedures
In its completed form, this equipment has
been designed to have a high level of
immunity to static discharges. However,
when handling individual boards and
modules, many highly static sensitive
parts are exposed. In order to protect
these devices from damage and to protect
your warranty, please observe static
handling procedures, for example, use an
appropriately grounded anti-static wrist
band. Calrec will supply an electrostatic
cord and wrist strap with all of it’s digital
products.
All modules and cards should be returned
to Calrec Audio Limited in anti-static
wrapping.
Calrec Audio Limited can supply these
items upon request, should you require
assistance.
This applies particularly to digital products
due to the types of devices and very
small geometries used in their fabrication,
analog parts can however still be affected.
CALREC Putting Sound in the Picture 5
This equipment must be EARTHED•
Only suitably trained personnel should •
service this equipment
Please read and take note of all
•
warning and informative labels
Before starting any servicing
•
operation, equipment must be isolated
from the AC supply (mains)
Fuses should only be replaced with
•
ones of the same type and rating as
that indicated
Operate only in a clean, dry and
•
pollutant-free environment
Do not operate in an explosive
•
atmosphere
Do not allow any liquid or solid objects
•
to enter the equipment. Should this
accidentally occur then immediately
switch off the unit and contact your
service agent
Do not allow ventilation slots to be
•
blocked
Do not leave the equipment powered
•
up with the dust cover fitted
The rack mounting parts of this
•
equipment must be fitted into an
enclosure which complies with local
regulations
Cleaning
For cleaning the front panels of the
equipment we recommend anti-static
screen cleaner sprayed onto a soft cloth to
dampen it only.
HEALTH ANd SAfETy
Explanation of Warning Symbols
The triangular warning symbols below
contain a black symbol on a yellow
background, surrounded by a black border.
The lightning flash with arrow head
symbol within an equilateral triangle is
intended to alert the user to the presence
of dangerous voltages and energy levels
within the product’s enclosure that may be
of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk
of electric shock or injury.
The exclamation mark within an equilateral
triangle is intended to prompt the
user to refer to important operating or
maintenance (servicing) instructions in the
documentation supplied with the product.
Power Supply Blanking Plates
(ZN4849-3 and ZN6020)
If you are in receipt of a ZN4849-3 or
ZN6020 power supply unit please do
not remove the blanking plates which are
fitted to the unused output connectors.
The maximum potential between the
terminals exceeds 60 volts, the blanking
plates are fitted to avoid the risk of electric
shock.
TECHNICAL SUPPORT
6 SIGMA with Bluefin
For technical assistance within the
UK and Ireland, please contact the
Customer Support Team at :-
Customer Support
Calrec Audio Ltd
Nutclough Mill
Hebden Bridge
HX7 8EZ
England
UK
Tel: +44 (0) 1422 842159
Fax: +44 (0) 1422 845244
Email: support@calrec.com
Website:www.calrec.com
We can deal with all technical after
sales issues, such as :-
Arrange repairs
•
Supply of replacement or loan •
units while repairs are being
carried out
Service / commissioning site visits
•
Operational training courses•
Maintenance training courses•
Supply of replacement •
components
Supply of documentation
•
Technical advice by telephone•
Customer support hours
Factory based customer support
engineers can be contacted by telephone
during normal office hours (Monday
- Thursday 9:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Friday till
4:30 pm). Outside these hours, a message
can be left on the answering machine, all
messages are dealt with promptly on the
next working day. Alternatively a message
can be sent to them by email.
Support contracts
Several levels of support contract are
available either from your local distributor
or from Calrec. All levels provide 24/7
phone support and higher levels include
additional benefits.
Product warranty
A full list of our conditions & warranties
relating to Goods & Services is contained
in the Company’s standard Terms and
Conditions. A copy of this is available on
request.
Repairs
If you need to return goods to Calrec,
for whatever reason, please contact the
Company beforehand in order that you
can receive advice on the best method
of returning the goods, and that a repair
order reference number can be issued.
Standard of service
Ensuring high standards is a priority, if you
have any comments on the level of service,
product quality or documentation offered
to you by Calrec, then the Customer
Support team would be pleased to receive
your comments through any of the normal
contact numbers, email or on the User
registration form located at the end of
this manual. If you have any other issues
regarding your Calrec purchase, then
please contact us and we will do our best
to help. Calrec welcomes all Customer
feedback.
This manual and the Alpha Installation
manual can be found in pdf format on your
console’s CD Handbook.
You can also access this manual on your
console’s PC from the Start menu, under
the Calrec Sigma group.
OVERVIEw
calrec.com Putting Sound in the Picture
SIGMA
8 SIGMA with Bluefin
Bluefin
The Bluefin High Density Processing
System provides 320 equivalent mono
signal paths - and can provide this
incredible power on just one card. The
Bluefin technology project has been in
development for a number of years and
elements of the technology have been
used in the Alpha console since its launch
in 1999. It is a proprietary architecture
which is has been conceived and
developed entirely within Calrec.
Bluefin processing provides benefits
beyond size and functionality. Calrec
products have an unrivalled history of
reliability and Bluefin further enhances
this. The design generates less heat,
uses less power and back-plane activity
is reduced. System resilience is improved
by 100% redundancy of all processing
elements through the provision of a
second card – it is like having another
console as a hot spare.
The reality of HD programming is that
it will continue to create more demand
for 5.1 content. This technology meets
production needs for HD production and
live to air delivery far into the future.
INTROdUCTION
Commitment
Calrec’s continued commitment to
customer value means Bluefin technology
is fully retrofit-able to existing Sigma
consoles. Having to increase console
capacity to cope with HD television will
not involve buying a new desk for existing
Calrec users.
Calrec has a world-wide customer base
which includes many of the world’s most
prestigious broadcasters. By consistently
focusing upon purely broadcast
products, Calrec offers consoles with
the most comprehensive combination
of performance and features available.
The high level of reliability of all Calrec
products, many of which are still in
daily use after 20 years, reflects a clear
awareness of the critical nature of the
operating environment.
This understanding of the real issues of
broadcast operations is one of the many
reasons why operators and management
alike prefer Calrec. Sigma is designed
to ensure this level of confidence will
continue in the digital era.
ISO 9001 and RAB Registered
Calrec Audio Ltd has been issued
the ISO9001: 2000 standard by the
Governing Board of ISOQAR.
The award, for both UKAS and RAB
registration, is the most comprehensive
of the ISO9000 international standards.
Granted in recognition of excellence
across design, development, manufacture
and after-sales support, the certification
follows a rigorous and thorough review
of Calrec’s internal and external
communication and business procedures.
CALREC Putting Sound in the Picture 9
PRINCIPAL fEATURES
Up to 320 mono equivalent •
channels: 108 stereo channels
plus 104 mono channels.
Up to 52 full 5.1 surround •
channels allocated from
available channel resource.
8 x 5.1 surround, stereo or •
mono audio groups.
All channels and groups have • 4-band
EQ, 2-band Filters, Compressor/
Limiter and Expander/Gate.
Separate 2-band • EQ and 2-band
Filters for Dynamics side-chain.
Up to 192 mono equivalent assignable •
inserts for outboard gear.
All channels and groups can have a •
direct output or a mix-minus feed.
Direct outputs can be pre EQ, •
pre fader, or post fader.
Automatic cross-fading facility, with •
user-definable fade out and in times.
Additional VCA style grouping system.•
Every channel can route to every buss, •
at the same time, without restrictions.
2 main plus 2 sub-main• stereo
or 5.1 surround outputs
Main and sub-main outputs have • 4-
band EQ, 2-band Filters, Compressor/
Limiter and Expander/Gate.
20• auxiliary outputs which can
be 20 mono or 10 stereo.
48 outputs for multi-track or •
general purpose feeds.
Simultaneous LCRS, stereo •
and mono outputs available
from each 5.1 main output.
Direct input available to group, •
mains, aux and mix-minus busses.
Up to 64 faders, with A and B layers •
of control, plus 2 main output faders
with 2 sub-main outputs available
on a second layer of control.
All faders are motorised •
and touch-sensitive.
A centrally assigned fader allows •
control of any fader from the
optimum listening position.
Comprehensive surround •
panning and monitoring.
User-definable • panels for monitor
selection and control.
Flexible TFT screen-based meters •
with total user-configurability.
Delay available on on channel •
inputs, channel, group and main
insert sends and returns, and
channel and group direct outputs.
Optional I/O expansion via a wide •
area interface such as MADI or
Hydra, Calrec’s sophisticated
audio networking system.
On board Flash ROM memory •
system allows 99 full console
or partial memories.
PC• backup allows an unlimited
number of memories.
Sophisticated • GPIO facilities.
Console operates independently of • PC.
Independent DSP operation •
ensures audio continuity even
during PC or control reset.
Console and racks boot from power •
on in less than 20 seconds.
Full control system reset in less than •
15 seconds with no loss of audio.
Last settings fully restored •
on power-up or reset.
Automatic change over to hot •
spares for power supplies,
control cards and DSP card.
All cards and modules are •
designed to be hot plugged.
All cards and modules are designed •
to initialise upon insertion.
10 SIGMA with Bluefin
Analog input for 0dBFS can
be pre-set globally to +28,
+24, +22, +20, +18 or +15
dBu
Pre-fader headroom on
analog inputs is adjustable
globally from +24 to +36dB
in 2dB steps
Analog output for 0dBFS
matches input setting into
>1kOhms (+24dBu max into
600 Ohms)
The system can be pre-
set with up to five external
synchronisation sources,
plus internal, such that if
the 1st source fails, it will
automatically switch to the
2nd, and so on.
SySTEM SPECIfICATION
Formats supported AES/EBU (AES3) 24-bit
Also suitable for use with SPDIF (IEC958 Type 2) signals
Interface 110 Ohm transformer balanced, 5V Pk-Pk
75 Ohm unbalanced (BNC), 1V Pk-Pk
Sample rate conversion 24 bit switchable on all digital inputs
SRC THD+N -117dB @ 1kHz, 0.00014%
Formats supported AES/EBU (AES3) 24-bit
Interface 110 Ohm transformer balanced 4V Pk-Pk (nominal) into 110 Ohm load
75 Ohm unbalanced 1V Pk-Pk (nominal) into 75 Ohm load (BNC)
Analog - digital conversion 24 bit
Input Electronically balanced
Input impedance >1k Ohms for mic gains
10k Ohms for line gains
Sensitivity +18 / -78dB on mic/line input card
+18/-24dB on line only input card.
Equivalent input noise -126dB (150 Ohm source)
Distortion -1dBFS @ 1kHz - Better than 0.003%
-20dBFS @ 1kHz - Better than 0.006%
-60dBFS @ 1kHz - Better than 0.3%
Frequency response 20Hz to 20kHz +/- 0.5dB on mic/line input card
20Hz to 20kHz +/- 0.25dB on line only Iiput card
Input CMR
(Common Mode Rejection)
>70 dB (Typical 80dB) on line inputs
>75 dB (Typical 85dB) on mic inputs
Digital - analog conversion 24-Bit
Output balance Electronically Balanced, 20Hz to 20kHz, Better than -35dB, typically -45dB
Output impedance <40 Ohms
Distortion -1dBFS @ 1kHz - Better than 0.006%
-20dBFS @ 1kHz - Better than 0.003%
-60dBFS @ 1kHz - Better than 0.3%
Frequency response 20Hz to 20kHz +/- 0.25dB
Digital to digital (AES/EBU)
distortion
-1dBFS, 20Hz to 10kHz - Better than 0.002%
Digital to digital (with SRC)
distortion
-1dBFS, 20Hz to 10kHz - Better than 0.005%
Frequency response (Analog
input to output)
20Hz to 20kHz +/- 0.5dB
48kHz synchronization NTSC/PAL video
Internal crystal reference
TTL wordclock (48kHz)
AES/EBU digital input (48kHz)
Operating Non-operating
Temperature range 0°C to +30°C (32°F to +86°F) -20°C to +60°C (-4°F to +140°F)
Relative humidity 25% to 80% Non-condensing 0% to 90% Non-condensing
Maximum altitude 2,000 metres (6500ft)* 15,000 metres (49,000ft)
CALREC Putting Sound in the Picture 11
Layering
Each fader can control two independent
audio signal paths, named A and B. These
signal paths can be either channels or
groups, although for easy reference,
the faders are simply known as channel
faders. B signal paths are fully equipped
with all the same facilities as an A path.
When switching between A and B, the
fader will move to the correct position,
and the displays will show settings for the
selected path. The colour of the displays
on the fader strip indicate the active path:
Green for A, Amber for B.
Less important signals can be placed on
the B layer. Even then, only one button
press is required to access them again.
Using the ALL A and ALL B buttons is like
moving to a different section of a single
layer design (this can be set to operate
momentarily). This arrangement allows
more channels to be fitted into the space
available in the frame.
A setup option allows selected faders to
be excluded from the ALL A or ALL B
function. An additional option then allows
the individual fader A and B buttons to be
disabled to eliminate the risk of a critical
audio channel not being on the surface at
all times.
B
A
SL
SL
MR
SS
ST
MR
SS
ST
A
B
GP
GP
LAyERING ANd ASSIGNAbLE CONTROL
Assignable Control
Each fader has an Assign button for
each audio path. The Assign buttons are
labelled A and B for channel or group
paths, and M1, M2, S1 and S2 for the main
and sub-main output paths on the main
faders. Pressing the Assign button causes
the central control panels (the Assign
panels) to display and control the settings
for that fader’s channel, group or main
path.
In this way a large number of controls can
be accessed, for each audio path, from
the central listening position. As there is
less need to move around a large control
surface, controls can be accessed more
efficiently.
A number of controls and displays are also
provided on a per fader basis, to allow
important information to be even more
easily available.
In addition to the above, the channel
faders are assignable, in that the operator
can choose which faders to use for the
mono channels, stereo channels, surround
masters or groups.
12 SIGMA with Bluefin
PATHS ANd PORTS
Paths and Ports
On an analog desk, the channel inputs
are physical connections to the channel
module or card. They are fixed. Channel
1’s input is always channel 1’s input (even
though it may be possible to control
channel 1 from a different fader). Every
channel will probably have both a mic and
a line input, even though most will only use
one of them at any one time.
In a digital desk, there are two basic types
of input: mic/line and digital. However, it
is not necessary to provide both types for
every channel, as only one input will be
used at any one time. To provide both types
for each channel would increase the cost,
size and power consumption of the desk
unnecessarily.
Instead, a “pool” of each type is available,
plus an internal matrix to allow any of
them to be connected to any channel. This
provides more flexibility than is possible
with analog designs. The matrix can be
thought of as an electronic patch-bay with
the advantage that any connections made
will be stored with the console’s memories.
A similar matrix and “pool” is provided for
the outputs which is also stored with the
memories.
Each channel can select from two inputs
(1 and 2), which can be any combination
of mic/line and digitaI. Both inputs can
be set up independently, using separate
input controls ( input gain, phase reverse,
phantom power, etc). The switching
between the two inputs takes place after
these controls.
The basic terminology is that channels,
groups and mains are referred to as “paths”
within the digital processing system, and
the inputs and outputs are referred to as
“ports” through which the audio signals
have to pass. Ports are connected to paths
via the Matrix.
All ports are optional, including those
for the monitoring. The system can be
supplied with any combination of mic/line
and digital ports. Calrec digital consoles
are available in a number of configurations
known as Audio Packs, which are a
suggested complement of ports. The
Audio Pack which most closely matches
the requirements of the installation can be
chosen, and the port quantities can be fine
tuned appropriately.
Port Labels
During installation, all the ports on the
system are labelled to match the studio
wiring. Some rules are imposed on this
labelling:
Inputs and outputs should be labelled
•
in pairs.
The label must be no more than six
•
characters (to fit on the console’s
displays).
The same label cannot be used more
•
than once (but an input can have the
same label as an output) - to avoid
confusion.
Inputs and outputs are labelled in pairs for
easier use with any type of signal; mono,
stereo or surround. As digital inputs and
outputs are wired in pairs and it makes
sense to deal with all the inputs and
outputs in the same way.
The system automatically adds a left
(L) and right (R) suffix to the label to
distinguish the two halves of the pair, or an
LR suffix when the pair is used together.
The pairs can be used either for two mono
signals, or a stereo signal, or parts of a
surround signal. This includes the digital
ports if the external circuit allows them to
be used for two mono signals.
Those inputs or outputs which are
dedicated externally to mono signals only
(telephone lines, mono reverbs, mono
distribution feeds, etc), can be specified as
being mono. In this case, the two halves
of the pair have separate labels and the
L & R suffixes are not applied. Inputs and
outputs labelled in this way cannot be
connected in pairs to stereo paths.
Port Lists
In addition to labelling, each port may
be allocated to one of a number of lists
using the Options - Port List Screens.
This allows inputs and outputs which are
wired for similar purposes to be grouped
together for selection. Each list can
contain a mixture of normal inputs or
outputs (labelled in pairs) and inputs or
outputs dedicated to mono signals.
The lists can be sorted into the order
in which they appear on the selection
screens. The lists will appear in the same
order on the I/O Matrix and I/O screens.
It is possible to restrict the lists which
appear on the I/O Matrix using the Options
- Misc screen. This ensures that only the
relevant lists are immediately available at
the user’s fingertips. All lists are always
available on the I/O screens.
CALREC Putting Sound in the Picture 13
The 8 groups can each be designated
as mono, stereo or full 5.1 surround. In
addition, as many VCA style groups as
required can be created.
If a main or sub-main output is designated
as 5.1 surround, then a mono rear is
2 SUB-MAINS
STEREO
OR 5.1
MADI
OUTPUTS
AES
OUTPUTS
ANALOGUE
LINE
OUTPUTS
MADI
INPUTS
AES
INPUTS
ANALOGUE
LINE
INPUTS
MIC/LINE
INPUTS
8 GROUPS
MONITORING
2MAIN
OUTPUTS
STEREO
OR 5.1
AUX
OUTPUTS
20 MONO
OR
10 STEREO
48
TRACK
OUTPUTS
1
2
A CHANNELS
B CHANNELS
INPUT MATRIX
OUTPUT MATRIX
108 STEREO PLUS 104 MONO CHANNELS
UP TO 52 5.1 SURROUND CHANNELS
CONFIGURABLE FROM STEREO AND MONO
RESOURCES.
MONO, STEREO OR
5.1 SURROUND
HYDRA
INPUTS
HYDRA
OUTPUTS
Please note that Hydra
inputs cannot be patched
to Hydra outputs
(0759-51)
SIGNAL PATHS
derived at the output to allow it to be
used as LCRS mains. Stereo and mono
downmixes of the 5.1 are also produced.
If a channel is panned to both a stereo
and 5.1 bus simultaneously, the pan law to
each will be correct, as though the other
bus did not exist, even though the same
control is used to achieve the pan.
The 20 mono auxiliary outputs can be
paired up to give up to 10 stereo auxiliary
outputs.
14 SIGMA with Bluefin
(0759-52)
The largest system (in terms of I/O) would
have 8 WAB cards and 2 AES cards. If one
WAB card is reserved as a redundant hot
spare, this system would have 896 mono
I/O on WAB interfaces, plus 32 stereo
AES I/O. If all WAB I/O was AES through
a Hydra network, the system could have
up to 480 stereo AES on the system.
INPUTS ANd OUTPUTS
0759-52-2A4
System Diagram
Showing
Card Configuration
Options
Sigma with Bluefin
08/03/07
J. Cunningham
Title:
Project:
Issue date:
Drawn:
Calrec Audio Ltd
Nutclough Mill
Hebden Bridge
West Yorkshire
HX7 8EZ
Tel: 01422 842159
Fax: 01422 845244
www.calrec.com
enquiries@calrec.com
© Calrec Audio Ltd
All Rights Reserved
ANALOGUE I/O
RACK
DIGITAL I/O RACK
PC
HYDRA GIGABIT
INTERFACE
HYDRA I/O UNIT
MADI INTERFACE
Up to 8 Mic/Line or Line input cards,
each providing 8 stereo inputs per card.
Interfaces up to 128 mono inputs and 128 mono
outputs. Each Unit Requires a wide area bulk
card in the Digital I/O Rack.
Up to 8 Line output cards, each providing
8 stereo outputs per card.
Interfaces up to 128 mono inputs and 128
mono outputs. Each Unit Requires a wide
area bulk card in the Digital I/O Rack.
**Wide Area Bulk Cards are
used to expand the I/O of
the system via a wide area
interface such as MADI, or
Hydra - Calrec’s
sophisticated audio
networking system.
The system can have up to
8 Wide Area Interfaces.
Please note : If the
maximum number of WAB
cards are used (8), then
one of the 3 remaining AES
I/O slots in the Digital I/O
rack must be left unused.
*Bulk I/O cards are used to
interface to Analogue I/O
Racks. Each Rack
interfaces 128 mono inputs
and 128 mono outputs.
There can be up to 5
Analogue I/O Racks in the
system.
Up to 11 AES cards, each providing 16 stereo
inputs and 16 stereo outputs.
2 DSP cards (1 plus 1 hot spare)
8 of the AES card slots can be occupied by Bulk I/O
cards (Max 5)*or Wide Area Bulk (WAB) cards **.
Hydra I/O units can interface up to 96 inputs
and 96 outputs, analogue or digital. These
units can be local or remotely located.
WAB WAB BULK
4GPIO CARD SLOTS (MINIMUM 2)
2CONTROL PROCESSOR CARD SLOTS
(1 PLUS 1 HOT SPARE).
CALREC Putting Sound in the Picture 15
GETTING STARTEd
As a safety measure, ensure that all faders
are minimised, and the control room level
control is no more than half way up.
Check that the basic system ports have
been set up and the control room monitor
speakers are connected to the appropriate
outputs. Then, choose a channel fader
by pressing the A (or B) button on the
channel fader panel.
Next, go to the I/O Matrix panel and, if a
path type is not already indicated, press
either the mono or stereo buttons to
assign a mono, stereo or 5.1 surround
channel to the fader.
Channel path type selection can also be
done using the USER - CHAN screen.
Next, go to the Input/Output panel and
select one of the channel’s two inputs 1
or 2.
Return to the I/O Matrix panel and also
select Input 1 or 2 in order to assign a
port to it. Do this by turning the selector
control knob to scroll through the
available ports.
Pressing the knob down and turning it
will switch to another list of input ports
(providing these have been set up on the
Options - Port List screens). Once you
have arrived at the port you want, press
the ON button to connect it (this is like
inserting the patch cord).
Port assignment can also be done using
the I/O screens.
Set the input gain, panning, etc, on the
Input/Output panel, the EQ and Dynamics
on their respective panels, and route the
signal, to Main 1 say, using the Routing
controls.
<< >>
LB RB
OL
/ /
OR
2
48L48R
TONE M/S
IN
EQ
PRE
EQ
PRE
BUS
TONE
TB
MIX
MINUS
IN IN
GAIN
INPUT SELECTION
STEREO WIDTH
FRONT/BACK PAN REAR PAN DIVERGENCE
FRONT PAN
BALANCE
DIRECT OUTPUT
SURROUND SOUND
ININ
REAR
LEVEL
1
LFE
L-C-R
ON
INPUT INSERT
FDR
PRE
FDR
PRE
INPUT
PY4885
OUTPUT
DIRECT OUTPUT
AFL
SRC
MAIN
GP
DIRECT
C
ONLY
- 9.0 dB LS >RS - 7.5 dB L 4 R
FDR19A
Drums - 4.6 dB
+56.0 dB
MIC L R M S >W L C >R
5.0
LEVEL
IN
AUTO
FDR
Now fade up the Main 1 fader and
select Main 1 SURR as a Control Room
Pre-Select (Monitor LS panel), and
press HEAR. If the channel fader and LS
controls are set correctly you should hear
the signal.
Refer to the descriptions of the individual
control panels and screens for more
detailed descriptions.
MP5405
SMALL LS
LEVEL
L R
BALANCE
DIM
CLEAR
DIRECT
INPUT
CHANGE
OVER
STEREO MONO
SURR
MAIN 1
MISC OP5
STEREO
MAIN 1
MISC OP6
PFL
MISC OP4
STEREO
MAIN 1
MISC OP1
SURR
MAIN 1
MISC OP2
SURR
MAIN 1
PRE-SEL1
LS RS
LFE OFF
L C R
MISC FUNCTIONS
SURR
MAIN 2
PRE-SEL2
STEREO
VTR1/1
PRE-SEL3AUX 3
PRE-SEL4
IN
LS MON
INSERT
NO COMP
FULL
DP570
DECODERS
DIM CUT
MUTE
CR MON
FOLLOW
MISC OP3
MUTE MUTE MUTE
MUTE MUTE
0
PFL/LIST AFL
CONTROL
ROOM
MONITOR
1 2
345 6
0
1HEAR
2HEAR
3HEAR
4
INPUT
DIRECT
HEAR
TONE ALL
TRACK OUTPUT
TRACK ROUTING/SEL
1 32 4 5 6
7 8 9 10 11 12
13 14 15 16 17 18
AFL
RY5586
PRE
EQ
PAN
FDR
PRE
MONO
17 - 5.0
OFF
1 2
I/O MATRIX
A
<
B
>
>>
< >
INPUT
INSERT KEY
DIRECT O/P
PORT/No.
GROUP SURR
STEREO
CHANNEL
MONO
ON
I/P LABEL
FADER
EXEC
MOVE PATH
PORT
1
PORT
2
TO
FADER
FDR19A
VOC 1M 23LR
SEL PORT/No.PATH TYPE
EXECCLR
CLEAR CHANNEL
TB
19 20 21 22 23 24
25 2726 28 29 30
31 32 33 34 35 36
37 38 39 40 41 42
43 44 45 46 47 48
GROUP
1 2 3 4
5 6 7 8
M1 M2
S1 S2
CHANNEL/GROUP
TO TRACKS
MAIN
ROUTING
SEL
CHANNEL
TRACK
OUTPUT
FROM FADER
IC5523
1
2
Larry
L C >R
+56. dB
MIC
WILD
ALT
SL
SL
ST
ST
MR
MR
SS
SS
AFL
T
ON
GP
GP
60
50
40
30
20
10
5
0
10
5
M/S
EQ
DYN
PEAK
PFL
DYN
O/P
I/P
E
C
8
12
16
20
24
4
48
FLTR
BA
MAINGROUP
2
3
4
6
5
7
8
1 1
2
SRC
MIX-M
BUSS
DIG
LINE
MIC
TRACK
S1
S2
DIR
TB
0
8
CUT
A
B
Guest1
TONE ALL
TRACK OUTPUT
TRACK ROUTING/SEL
1 32 4 5 6
7 8 9 10 11 12
13 14 15 16 17 18
AFL
RY5586
PRE
EQ
PAN
FDR
PRE
MONO
17 - 5.0
OFF
1 2
I/O MATRIX
A
<
B
>
>>
< >
INPUT
INSERT KEY
DIRECT O/P
PORT/No.
GROUP SURR
STEREO
CHANNEL
MONO
ON
I/P LABEL
FADER
EXEC
MOVE PATH
PORT
1
PORT
2
TO
FADER
FDR19A
VOC 1M 23LR
SEL PORT/No.PATH TYPE
EXECCLR
CLEAR CHANNEL
TB
19 20 21 22 23 24
25 2726 28 29 30
31 32 33 34 35 36
37 38 39 40 41 42
43 44 45 46 47 48
GROUP
1 2 3 4
5 6 7 8
M1 M2
S1 S2
CHANNEL/GROUP
TO TRACKS
MAIN
ROUTING
SEL
CHANNEL
TRACK
OUTPUT
FROM FADER
16 SIGMA with Bluefin
TOUCH SCREEN LAyOUT
The Front End screens are divided into
groups which are accessed using the buttons
along the bottom of the display. Within
each group there are a number of screens
accessed by buttons up the left side of the
display. On some screens, there are additional
buttons to access sub-sets of the screen’s
function.
Options Settings
Options settings are not stored in the individual
console memories but are saved and loaded
separately using the buttons on each Options
screen. This allows changes to be made without
invalidating any saved memories. Changes to
options take effect as soon as they are made,
however if they are not saved, the next time the
desk boots up the options will revert to their
previous settings. Upon loading the options
settings from the file on the hard disk, any
changes made will be over-written unless they
have been saved. This allows changes to be
tried out without losing the original settings and
these original settings can be restored without
having to re-boot the system.
Second PC screen
The software now supports use of a second
PC screen which is configured as a Windows
‘extended desktop’. Any of the screens showing
a LOCK SCREEN button can be sent to that
second monitor by pressing the button. They
will remain on the second monitor whilst
the main monitor is reassigned to any other
required functions.
Operational reproductions of the EQ, Dynamics, Routing,
Aux Send, Aux Output and Delay panels; providing
alternative controls.
Sets the current state of various functions
(these are not stored with the user memories or
options - only in the live (hidden) memory.)
Operational screens which enhance the controls on
the console and for setting options which are stored
with the user memories.
Memory control screens to supplement the panel controls.
Set up and display of all the I/O connections stored
with the user memories.
Entry to and control of password-protected operational
modes, troubleshooting screens.
The Options screens are used to pre-set the system to
the studio’s required settings. Includes set up of meter
configurations, monitor panel configurations, port lists,
serial interface and label associations, GPIO and condition
switching.
Options settings are not stored in the individual console
memories but are saved and loaded separately using the
buttons on each Options screen. This allows changes to be
made without invalidating any saved memories. Changes to
options take effect as soon as they are made, however if
they are not saved, the next time the desk boots up the
options will revert to their previous settings. Upon loading
the options settings from the file on the hard disk, any
changes made will be overwritten unless they have been
saved. This allows changes to be tried out without losing
the original settings and these original settings can be
restored without having to re-boot the system.
Screens for setup and control of an audio network system
These screens are only visible if Hydra audio networking is
installed.
The “EXIT” button at the bottom corner of the screen will
exit the application. Next to this button are two indicators
which show the status of the primary and secondary control
processors. During normal operation, the primary processor
will be in use, and its indicator will be green. When busy,
the processor’s indicator will be amber, during which time,
no changes can be made to the control screens (Although
changes to the control surface can be made, and will take
immediate effect).
CALREC Putting Sound in the Picture 17
The AWACS button at the bottom of the
screen will flash to alert the user that a
message has been reported. Selection
of this button will open the AWACS page,
where messages can be viewed.
Selecting a message will reveal a more
detailed description. Message history
is saved to the PC’s hard disk for future
analysis.
ERROR MESSAGES (AwACS)
Three types of messages are reported:
Information messages, eg “Control
Surface UN4806 processor
started successfully”
Warning messages, where the
system back-up has taken over
Fatal Error messages, where the
system cannot recover by itself
(perhaps because the back-up is
already in use)
Because the system has many back-up
features, it is possible to continue operating
after errors are reported. If un-cleared
errors are still present, an icon will flash in
the AWACS button. Selecting this button
at any time will switch back to the AWACS
screen.
Information messages can be cleared
by selecting them and then leaving the
AWACS screen. Warning and Fatal
Error messages can only be cleared
by clearing the error and restoring the
system to its normal operational state.
It is possible to set the PSU Fail
Indicator button on the Broadcast
Facilities panel, to flash when an error
message is reported. This is set up on
the Options - GPO screen.
18 SIGMA with Bluefin
fAdER AREA
calrec.com Putting Sound in the Picture
SIGMA
20 SIGMA with Bluefin
Style 1 Faders
If your console uses Style 1 faders please
refer to Appendix A. Style 1 faders have
a different button layout, and are slightly
different, in the way that the current
assignment, interrogated paths and VCA
groups are indicated.
Paths A and B
Each fader can control two independent
audio signal paths, A and B. The A and B
buttons are used to select the two channel
paths. Selecting a path will “call” the
fader to the Assign panels and its fader
assign button will light in red. Any changes
made to the Assign panels will affect
the selected path only. When switching
between the two paths, the indicative
displays and fader position change to
match the settings of each path.
Display Labels
The label in the display is the name
associated with the input assigned to the
path, or the group number if the path is a
group. The input labels default to the Port
ID but can be changed to a more suitable
label using the I/O screens. Path A’s label
is shown in the top half of the display, and
path B’s label is shown in the bottom half
of the display. If path A is active, the A
fader assign button and the label will be
lit in green. If path B is active, the B fader
assign button and the label will be lit in
amber.
Channel/Group Cut
The CUT button cuts the channel or group.
Its effect is the same as fading out the
channel or group. Alternatively, there can
be ON buttons which switch the channel
on.
CHANNEL ANd GROUP fAdERS
IC5523
1
2
Larry
L C >R
+56. dB
MIC
WILD
ALT
SL
SL
ST
ST
MR
MR
SS
SS
AFL
T
ON
GP
GP
60
50
40
30
20
10
5
0
10
5
M/S
EQ
DYN
PEAK
PFL
DYN
O/P
I/P
E
C
8
12
16
20
24
4
48
FLTR
BA
MAINGROUP
2
3
4
6
5
7
8
1 1
2
SRC
MIX-M
BUSS
DIG
LINE
MIC
TRACK
S1
S2
DIR
TB
0
8
CUT
A
B
Guest1
Assign Button LEDs
A set of indicative LEDs give more
information about the path.
MR - The fader path is a Master of a
VCA style group
SL - The fader path is a slave within a
VCA style group
ST - The path is a stereo channel or
group
SS - The path is a surround master
GP - A group is assigned to the path
A - Path A is active
B - Path B is active
AFL
AFL will be heard through the monitor
loudspeakers (main or small). AFL will be
heard in surround provided that surround
panning is in use and the loudspeaker
system is surround.
Null LEDs
The and Null LEDs illuminate when
the position of the fader is not the same
as the level of the audio. For example, if
a VCA master is moved away from the ‘0’
position, the null LEDs on the slaves will
light to indicate whether the audio is above
or below the position of the fader.
The T LED indicates that the console
has recognised that the fader has been
touched.
The PEAK LED will light if the channel or
group signal is within 3 dB of the clipping
level. The ON LED lights when the audio
level is not at the ∞ position.
Fader Bargraph
The fader bargraph indicates the level
at the channel input (post the input gain,
input switching and the tone switching),
the channel direct output, or the gain
reduction of the dynamics, indicated by the
three LEDs. Selection is made using the
USER-CHAN screen.
The EQ, FLTR, DYN and M/S LEDs indicate
that these functions are active on the
selected path (EQ, Filters and Dynamics
settings may be flat - LEDs indicate that
the function is switched IN).
PFL
PFL will be heard on the small LS (or the
main LS if PFL to Mon is selected on the
States screen), or PFL LS (depending
upon the monitoring configuration). PFL is
also provided on the fader overpress.
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