Lexicon I-O|FW810S User manual

Owner's Manual
FireWire Audio Interface
with integrated channel strip processing
FireWire Audio Interface
with integrated channel strip processing

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
WARNING FOR YOUR PROTECTION
READ THE FOLLOWING:
KEEP THESE INSTRUCTIONS
HEED ALL WARNINGS
FOLLOW ALL INSTRUCTIONS
THE APPARATUS SHALL NOT BE EXPOSED
TO DRIPPING OR SPLASHING LIQUID AND
NO OBJECT FILLED WITHI LIQUID, SUCH AS
VASES, SHALL BE PLACED ON THE APPARA-
TUS.
CLEAN ONLY WITH A DRY CLOTH.
DO NOT BLOCK ANY OF THE VENTILATION
OPENINGS. INSTALL IN ACCORDANCE WITH
THE MANUFACTURER’S INSTRUCTIONS.
DO NOT INSTALL NEAR ANY HEAT SOURC-
ES SUCH AS RADIATORS, HEAT REGISTERS,
STOVES, OR OTHER APPARATUS (INCLUD-
ING AMPLIFIERS) THAT PRODUCE HEAT.
ONLY USE ATTACHMENTS/ACCESSORIES
SPECIFIED BY THE MANUFACTURER.
UNPLUG THIS APPARATUS DURING LIGHT-
NING STORMS OR WHEN UNUSED FOR
LONG PERIODS OF TIME.
Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polar-
ized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug
has two blades with one wider than the other. A
grounding type plug has two blades and a third
grounding prong. The wide blade or third prong
are provided for your safety. If the provided plug
does not fit your outlet, consult an electrician for
replacement of the obsolete outlet.
Protect the power cord from being walked on
or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience
receptacles, and the point where they exit from
the apparatus.
Use only with the cart stand, tripod bracket, or
table specified by the manufacture, or sold with
the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution
when moving the cart/apparatus combination to
avoid injury from tip-over.
Refer all servicing to to qualified service person-
nel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has
been damaged in any way, such as power-supply
cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled
or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the
apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture,
does not operate normally, or has been dropped.
POWER ON/OFF SWITCH:The Power switch
used in this piece of equipment DOES NOT
break the connection from the mains.
MAINS DISCONNECT: The plug shall remain
readily operable. For rack-mount or installation
where plug is not accessible, an all-pole mains
switch with a contact separation of at least 3
mm in each pole shall be incorporated into the
electrical installation of the rack or building.
FOR UNITS EQUIPPED WITH EXTERNALLY
ACCESSIBLE FUSE RECEPTACLE: Replace fuse
with same type and rating only.
MULTIPLE-INPUT VOLTAGE:This equipment
may require the use of a different line cord,
attachment plug, or both, depending on the avail-
able power source at installation. Connect this
equipment only to the power source indicated
on the equipment rear panel.To reduce the risk
of fire or electric shock, refer servicing to quali-
fied service personnel or equivalent.
If connected to 240V supply, a suitable CSA/UL
certified power cord shall be used for this supply.
U.K. MAINS PLUG WARNING
A molded mains plug that has been cut off from the cord us
unsafe. Discard the mains plug at a suitable disposal facility.
NEVER UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES SHOULD YOU INSERT
A DAMAGED OR CUT MAINS PLUG INTO A 13 AMP POWER
SOCKET. Do not use the mains plug without the fuse cover
in place. Replacement fuse covers can be obtained from your
local retailer. Replacement fuses are 13 amps and MUST be
ASTA approved to BS1362.
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
NOTICE FOR CUSTOMERS IFYOUR UNIT ISEQUIPPED WITH A POWER CORD.
WARNING: THIS APPLIANCE SHALL BE CONNECTED TO A MAINS SOCKET
OUTLET WITH A PROTECTIVE EARTHING CONNECTION.
The cores in the mains lead are coloured in accordance with the following code:
GREEN and YELLOW - Earth BLUE - Neutral BROWN - Live
As colours of the cores in the mains lead of this appliance may not cor-
respond with the coloured markings identifying the terminals in your plug,
proceed as follows:
•The core which is coloured green and yellow must be connected to the
terminal in the plug marked with the letter E, or with the earth symbol,
or coloured green, or green and yellow.
•The core which is coloured blue must be connected to the terminal
marked N or coloured black.
•The core which is coloured brown must be connected to the terminal
marked L or coloured red.
This equipment may require the use of a different line cord, attachment
plug, or both, depending on the available power source at installation.
If the attachment plug needs to be changed, refer servicing to qualified
service personnel who should refer to the table below. The green/yellow
wire shall be connected directly to the units chassis.
CONDUCTOR WIRE COLOR
Normal Alt
LLIVE BROWN BLACK
NNEUTRAL BLUE WHITE
EEARTH GND GREEN/YEL GREEN
WARNING: If the ground is defeated, certain fault conditions in the unit
or in the system to which it is connected can result in full line voltage
between chassis and earth ground. Severe injury or death can then result if
the chassis and earth ground are touched simultaneously.
The symbols shown above are internationally accepted symbols that
warn of potential hazards with electrical products. The lightning flash
with arrowpoint in an equilateral triangle means that there are danger-
ous voltages present within the unit. The exclamation point in an
equilateral triangle indicates that it is necessary for the user to refer to
the owner’s manual.
These symbols warn that there are no user serviceable parts inside
the unit. Do not open the unit. Do not attempt to service the unit
yourself. Refer all servicing to qualified personnel. Opening the chassis
for any reason will void the manufacturer’s warranty. Do not get the
unit wet. If liquid is spilled on the unit, shut it off immediately and
take it to a dealer for service. Disconnect the unit during storms to
prevent damage.

DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
Manufacturer’s Name: Lexicon Professional
Manufacturer’s Address: 8760 S. Sandy Parkway
Sandy, Utah 84070, USA
declares that the product:
Product name: Lexicon IO FW810S
Note: Product name may be suffixed by the EU.
Product option: None
conforms to the following Product Specifications:
Safety: IEC 60065 -01+Amd 1
EMC: EN 55022:2006
EN 55024:1998
FCC Part 15
Supplementary Information:
The product herewith complies with the requirements of the:
Low Voltage Directive 2006/95/EC
EMC Directive 2004/108/EC.
RoHS Directive 2002/95/EC
WEEE Directive 2002/96/EC
With regard to Directive 2005/32/EC and EC Regulation 1275/2008 of 17 December 2008, this product
is designed, produced, and classified as Professional Audio Equipment and thus is exempt from this Directive.
Roger Johnsen
Director, Engineering
Signal Processing
8760 S. Sandy Parkway
Sandy, Utah 84070, USA
Date: February 23, 2011
European Contact: Your local Lexicon Sales and Service Office or
Harman Signal Processing
8760 South Sandy Parkway
Sandy, Utah
84070 USA
Ph: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
If you want to dispose this product, do not mix it with general household waste. There is a
separate collection system for used electronic products in accordance with legislation that
requires proper treatment, recovery and recycling.
Private household in the 25 member states of the EU, in Switzerland and Norway may return their used
electronic products free of charge to designated collection facilities or to a retailer (if you purchase a similar
new one).
For Countries not mentioned above, please contact your local authorities for a correct method of disposal.
By doing so you will ensure that your disposed product undergoes the necessary treatment, recovery and
recycling and thus prevent potential negative effects on the environment and human health.
ELECTROMAGNETIC
COMPATIBILITY
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules and the Product Specifications noted on the Declaration
of Conformity. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
• this device may not cause harmful
interference, and
• this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
Operation of this unit within significant
electromagnetic fields should be avoided.
• use only shielded interconnecting cables.

Service Info
If you require technical support, contact Lexicon®Professional Customer Service.
Be prepared to accurately describe the problem. Know the serial number of your unit,
found on a sticker attached to the bottom of the IO FW810S. If you have not already
taken the time to fill out your warranty registration card and send it in, please do so
now.
Before you return a product to the factory for service, we recommend you refer to
the manual. Make sure you have correctly followed installation steps and operation
procedures. If you are still unable to solve a problem, contact our Customer Service
Department at [phone] for consultation. If you need to return a product
to the factory for service, you MUST contact Customer Service to obtain a Return
Authorization Number. No returned products will be accepted at the factory without a
Return Authorization Number. Please refer to the Warranty information on the follow-
ing page, which extends to the first end-user. After expiration of the warranty, a reason-
able charge will be made for parts, labor, and packing if you choose to use the factory
service facility. In all cases, you are responsible for transportation charges to the factory.
Lexicon Professional will pay return shipping if the unit is still under warranty.
Use the original packing material if it is available. Mark the package with the name
of the shipper and with these words in red: DELICATE INSTRUMENT, FRAGILE!
Insure the package properly. Ship prepaid, not collect. Do not ship parcel post.
Warranty
This warranty is valid only for the original purchaser and only in the United States.
1. The warranty registration card that accompanies this product must be mailed (or
online regisration must be completed at www.lexiconpro.com) within 30 days after
purchase date to validate this warranty. Proof-of-purchase is considered to be the
burden of the consumer.
2. Lexicon Professional warrants this product, when bought and used solely within
the U.S., to be free from defects in materials and workmanship under normal use
and service.
3. Lexicon Professional’s liability under this warranty is limited to repairing or,
at our discretion, replacing defective materials that show evidence of defect,
provided the product is returned to Lexicon Professional WITH RETURN
AUTHORIZATION from the factory, where all parts and labor will be covered
up to a period of 1 year. A Return Authorization number must be obtained from
Lexicon Professional by telephone. The company shall not be liable for any conse-
quential damage as a result of the product’s use in any circuit or assembly.
4. Lexicon Professional reserves the right to make changes in design or make addi-
tions to or improvements upon this product without incurring any obligation to
install the same additions or improvements on products previously manufactured.
5. The foregoing is in lieu of all other warranties, expressed or implied, and Lexicon
Professional neither assumes nor authorizes any person to assume on its behalf any
obligation or liability in connection with the sale of this product. In no event shall
Lexicon Professional or its dealers be liable for special or consequential damages or
from any delay in the performance of this warranty due to causes beyond its control.

Table of Contents
INtRodUctIoN ................................................................... 1
Features ..........................................................................................................1
Unpacking the IO FW810S ...........................................................................2
The following items are included:.................................................................... 2
System Requirements......................................................................................2
FRoNt PANeL...................................................................... 3
ReAR PANeL ........................................................................ 4
coNNectING the IoFW810S ............................................. 5
Microphones ..................................................................................................5
Line Level Sources..........................................................................................5
Instruments ....................................................................................................5
Computer/Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) ...............................................5
Headphones....................................................................................................5
Monitor Speakers............................................................................................5
Example Rear Panel Connections ...................................................................6
Example Rear Panel Connections ...................................................................6
the IoFW810S MIxeR - oveRvIeW .................................... 7
Installation......................................................................................................7
The Mixer – Input 1-8 Strips........................................................................... 8
Monitor Reverbs .............................................................................................. 9
The Mixer - Balanced Out (Aux Out) Controls............................................... 10
The Mixer – Master Faders .............................................................................. 10
Channel Strip Dynamics ................................................................................. 11
Channel Strip Dynamics – Gate ...................................................................... 12
Channel Strip Dynamics – Compressor........................................................... 12
Channel Strip Dynamics – Limiter.................................................................. 13
Channel Strip Dynamics – Gain Fader ............................................................ 14
EQ ................................................................................................................... 14
File Menu......................................................................................................... 15
IO FW810S Control Panel .............................................................................. 16
SIGNAL FLoW dIAGRAM ..................................................... 17
SPecIFIcAtIoNS .................................................................. 19
tUtoRIAL - RecoRdING A GUItAR....................................... 21
exAMPLe PRoject - RecoRdING A GUItAR ......................... 23
Make Your Connections .................................................................................23
Connect the Guitar................................................................................. 23
Connect the Headphones and/or Speakers.............................................. 24
Connect the Computer........................................................................... 25
Install Drivers, Control Software, and Cubase®LE ........................................26
Set Up Windows®Audio and MIDI (Optional).............................................. 26
The Software Mixer........................................................................................27
Launch the Mixer Application ................................................................ 27
Set Levels ................................................................................................ 28
Add Monitor Reverb (Optional)............................................................. 31
Set Up Cubase®LE for Use with the IO
FW810S (Windows®).....................................................................................32
Set Up Cubase®LE for Use with the IO
FW810S (Mac®).............................................................................................33
Record a Track in Cubase®LE ......................................................................... 34
Create a new project ............................................................................... 34
Start Recording ....................................................................................... 35
Listen to the Track You Just Recorded..................................................... 35
APPeNdIx........................................................................... 37
Busses and Device Ports in Cubase®LE........................................................... 37
Busses General Overview ........................................................................ 37
The Mixer ......................................................................................................37
Mixer General Overview......................................................................... 37

1
Introduction
Congratulations and thank you for purchasing the Lexicon®IO FW810S!
With a wealth of features – including dbx®high-voltage, ultra low noise mic
pre’s, Pantheon II reverbs, and a powerful hardware mixing board with dbx
dynamics and hardware monitor reverb – the Lexicon IO FW810S is more
than just an 10-in, 12-out FireWireTM audio interface. It’s a pro recording
studio contained in a single rack unit.
Featuring newly designed dbx®60V high-voltage, ultra-low noise micro-
phone preamps on every channel, the IO FW810S is more than equipped
to provide professional recordings that keep your music sounding its best.
The preamps run on a 60V supply to guarantee stability and provide you
with a superior recording across a wide dynamic range. Performance driven
A/D - D/A converters ensure pristine 24bit/96kHz audio to capture every
subtle detail of your performance. And the newly updated Pantheon II plug-
in provides smooth, lush Lexicon reverbs for creating ideal sonic spaces.
With built-in dbx Type IVTM conversion, your digital recordings will pre-
serve their dynamic range even when levels get too high. They’ll acquire that
forgiving, oversaturated quality once only found on big analog recorders.
Conversion actually gives you more headroom, capturing subtle details in
higher level signals instead of hard clipping them.
Plus, the Lexicon IO FW810S adds onboard dbx processing (compressor,
gate, limiter, and EQ) to the front end of your digital audio workstation
along with a powerful hardware Mixer. The Mixer’s true-to-life interface
design feels familiar from the second you start using it, making it easy to
adjust levels and route signals. The mixer allows you to save and load snap-
shots of mixer settings, and store your own power-on default snapshot; and
with it’s 12 outputs you can create up to five unique monitor mixes or mix
7.1 surround projects. When you apply the onboard dbx processing and
Lexicon monitoring reverb to your input signals, the IO FW810S does the
processing in real-time without taxing your CPU.
With so many powerful and useful recording studio tools, it’s more than just
a FireWire interface. It’s the Lexicon IO FW810S.
Features
• 8 dbx® high-voltage, ultra-low noise microphone preamps
• 2 front pannel input combi-jacks accept mic,line, or instrument signals
• 6 rear panel input combi-jack accept mic or line signals
• 8 analog TRS outputs (for sub-mixes) and 2 analog TRS L/R main
outputs
• Stereo S/PDIF digital I/O
• MIDI in and out
• dbx compressor, limiter, gate, EQ, Type IV conversion processing
available on all 8 analog input channels
• Lexicon monitor reverb; reverb sends available on all 18 software mixer
channels
• Onboard signal processing occurs inside the FW810S, without taxing
your CPU
• Fire Wire 400 (IEEE 1394) Audio Interface
• 44.1 to 96KHz sample rates, 24 bit conversion

2
Unpacking the IO FW810S
The IO FW810S is shipped in one carton, containing the IO FW810S unit
and a software DVD for Windows®and Macintosh®systems. After unpack-
ing, save all the packaging materials in case you ever have to ship the unit.
Thoroughly inspect the IO FW810S and packing materials for signs of
damage. Report any shipment damage to the carrier that delivered the prod-
uct or dealer from whom you purchased the product at once.
THE FOLLOWING ITEMS ARE INCLUDED:
• IO FW810S
• Installer DVD containing FireWireTM drivers, this Owner's Manual,
Cubase LE Owner's manual, the FW810S Mixer software, the
Lexicon Pantheon II reverb plug-in, the XILS3 SE plug-in, Cubase LE
Recording Software, and ToonTrack EZ Drummer Lite for Mac®and
Windows®
• FireWire Connector Cable
• Lexicon Professional warranty registration
System Requirements
Powerful software for audio recording requires a powerful computer with
the right operating system software, processor and memory. Most comput-
ers currently sold already meet these requirements, or can be upgraded to be
compatible with the Lexicon IO FW810S. As with all such systems, adding
more RAM than the minimum will allow you to do more processing and
improve performance.
Windows®Vista, XP, 7 (Minimum System Requirements)
• Multicore processor
• 1GB RAM
• Display Resolution 1024 x 768 pixels
• DVD-ROM drive
• Internet access required for software license activation
Mac® (Minimum System Requirements)
• Intel®Multicore processor
• 1 GB RAM
• OS X Version 10.4.9 or higher
• Display Resolution 1024 x 768 pixels
• DVD-ROM drive
• Internet access required for software license activation
Note: Adobe Reader is required to view the pdf documents on the DVD.

3
Front Panel
13
2
8
4
10 11
79
6
5
1. INPUTS 1 AND2 (MIC/INST 1 ANDMIC/INST 2)
These balanced inputs accept XLR or 1/4” connectors, and support mic,
line, and instrument level sources (including guitars).
2. INSTRUMENT BUTTON/LED
Press when an instrument level source (such as a guitar) is connected to the
corresponding input (1 or 2). The button illuminates when activated.
3. +48V BUTTON/LED
Each of these buttons enables the phantom power to the corresponding
inputs pairs. Dynamic microphones do not require phantom power to
operate. Most condenser microphones do require phantom power to oper-
ate. If you are unsure about the phantom power requirements for your
microphone, consult your microphone’s documentation or contact the
manufacturer. This switch should be OFF if you are connecting any line-
level source to the Mic/Inst or Mic Pre jacks.
4. DYNAMICS LEDS ANDINPUT LEVEL LEDS
The top three rows indicate what dynamics are active for each input. The
bottom three rows indicate signal presence (green) and level (yellow and
red) for each input.
5. FIREWIRETM LED
Indicates when a FireWireTM connection is present.
6. POWER LED
Indicates when the IO FW810S is turned on.
7. GAIN KNOBS 1 AND2
These knobs adjust the input gain levels for Mic/Inst 1 and Mic/Inst 2.
8. GAIN KNOBS 3 – 8
These knobs adjust the input gain levels for Mic Pre 3 – 8 (the inputs
located on the back panel).
9. HEADPHONE OUTPUT JACK
Connect headphones here.
10. HEADPHONE LEVEL KNOB
Adjust headphone output signal level here.
11. MAIN OUTPUTS LEVEL KNOB
Adjust the main output signal level here.

4
Rear Panel
2 4 85 6 73
1
1. POWER SWITCH
Turn the IO FW810S on or off here.
2. POWER JACK
Standard 3-pin IEC power connector. 100-240V, 50-60Hz automatic
switching to correct voltage range.
3. MIDI IN AND OUT
The MIDI jacks provide MIDI input and MIDI output to and from your
computer. Connect your MIDI keyboards, sound modules, and external
controllers here.
4. S/PDIFIN AND OUT
The S/PDIF in and out ports are unbalanced phono (RCA) connectors
that transmit and receive either a 16-bit or 24-bit two-channel audio
stream. S/PDIF ports may be found on many professional and consumer
CD and digital audio recorders. It is recommended to use 75-Ohm coaxial
cable for S/PDIF transfers and keep the cable length to a maximum of 10
meters to minimize interference and data dropout.
5. FIREWIRETM PORTS
Connect FireWireTM cables here. Either port can be used, with the other
acting as Thru.
Note: When daisy chaining devices, connect other IO FW810S units only.
Do not connect other FireWire devices to the IO FW810S.
6. BALANCED OUTS1–8
These outputs support balanced TRS or unbalanced TS ¼” connections.
These outputs can be connected to a mixing board, power amplifier, pow-
ered studio monitors, recorder, or another line level input.
7. MAIN OUTPUTS
These outputs support balanced TRS or unbalanced TS ¼” connections.
These outputs can be connected to a mixing board, power amplifier, pow-
ered studio monitors, recorder, or another line level input.
8. MIC/LINE INPUTS 3–8
These balanced inputs accept XLR or 1/4” connectors, and support mic
and line level sources.

5
Connecting the IO FW810S
For a step-by-step example project, refer to the Tutorial at the back of this
manual.
Microphones
Plug an XLR cable directly from a microphone into the desired Mic/Inst or
Mic Pre input on the FW810S front or rear panel. If you connect a micro-
phone to a front panel input, make sure the Instrument button/LED above
the corresponding Gain knob is not lit. For example, if a microphone is con-
nected to Mic/Inst 1, then the Instrument button/LED above the Gain 1
knob should not be lit.
If your microphone requires phantom power, first make sure the microphone
is connected, then press the +48V button/LED above that input pair's Gain
knob. If your mics don’t need phantom power, it is best to leave it off.
Note: Some microphones can be damaged by +48V phantom power.
Consult your microphone's documentation before enabling +48V phantom
power.
Line Level Sources
Line level sources include keyboards, drum machines, CD players, and exter-
nal microphone preamps and effects. Plug a 1/4" TS (unbalanced) or TRS
(balanced) cable directly from the line level source into the desired Mic/Inst
or Mic Pre input on the FW810S front or real panel.
If you connect a line level source to a front panel input, make sure the
Instrument button/LED above the corresponding Gain knob is not lit.
For example, if a line level source is connected to Mic/Inst 1, then the
Instrument button/LED above the Gain 1 knob should not be lit.
Instruments
Front panel Mic/Inst jacks accept signals from instruments like electric
guitars and basses. Plug a standard ¼" TS (instrument) cable directly from
the instrument into one of the Mic/Inst input jacks on the front panel of
FW810S. Press the Instrument button/LED above the corresponding Gain
knob (Gain 1 for Mic/Inst 1, Gain 2 for Mic/Inst 2).
Computer/Digital Audio Workstation (DAW)
Connect your computer's FireWireTM port to the FireWire port on the IO
FW810S rear panel using a standard FireWire cable (included).
Headphones
Connect headphones to the Headphone jack located on the front panel. The
Headphone jack accepts an 1⁄4" TRS connector. Adjust headphone volume
with the Headphone Level knob.
Monitor Speakers
Using ¼" cables, connect the L/R Main Output jacks on the rear panel to
the appropriate inputs on your mixer, power amp, or powered monitors.
Adjust the output volume with the Output Level knob. Additional monitor
mixes may be created on outputs 1-8 using the integrated hardware digital
mixer.

6
FireWireTM Cable
Example Rear Panel Connections
Example Front Panel Connections

7
The IO FW810S Mixer - Overview
The IO FW810S includes a powerful hardware Mixer with a software con-
trol panel and built-in EQ, dynamics, and monitor reverbs. When open,
the Mixer controls the IO FW810S hardware. The controls are described in
more detail on the following pages, and a step-by-step example project can
be found in the Tutorial at the back of this manual.
To turn a knob in the mixer, click and hold on a knob and move the cursor
up to increase or down to decrease the parameter's value. To move a fader,
click and hold on the fader and move the cursor up or down to move the
fader up or down.
To return a knob to its default position, double click the knob. Ctrl-click to
fine adjust.
Installation
1. Insert the DVD into your DVD-ROM drive.
2. The Installer should start automatically. Follow the on-screen instruc-
tions to install the software you wish to use. The Mixer is included
with the Drivers and Control Software.
Note: You must install the IO FW810S Drivers and Control Software
to use the FW810S.
If the Installer doesn't start automatically, you can start it manually by open-
ing the approprate file on the DVD:
For Mac: Open Me
For Windows: InstallationMenu.exe

8
The Mixer – Input 1-8 Strips
Gain Reduction Meter/Button
Indicates the amount of gain reduction being applied. Click to open or close
the Dynamics Control Panel (described on page 13).
EQ Indicator/Button
Shows the EQ line for the corresponding channel. Click to open or close the
EQ (described on page 16).
Stereo button
Links two adjacent channels together in stereo. When linked, each strip’s
controls function as a pair; when you turn one strip’s Level knob, for exam-
ple, the other strip’s Level knob automatically moves as well.
Pan
Positions the audio in the stereo field. The top four Pan knobs control their
corresponding Aux pairs. The bottom Pan knob controls the Main outs.
Level
Adjusts the loudness of the signal for stereo aux bus outs 1&2, 3&4, 5&6,
and 7&8.
Send
Sends the channel’s signal to the monitor reverb (described on page 11).
Mute button
Silences the signal in the main mix for the selected channel (the aux and
reverb levels are unaffected by this mute button).
Solo button
Silences all channels except this one. Note that multiple channels can be
"soloed" simultaneously.
Pre-Fader Input Level Meter
Indicates the signal level for this channel.
Fader
Attenuates or adds gain to the signal in the main mix.
Label (Scribble Strip)
Double-click to enter a name for the channel here.

9
Monitor Reverbs
The Mixer includes monitor reverb feature (also known as a "courtesy"
reverb) which can be applied to and mixed in with signals passing through
the Mixer. The result can be heard through the Main outs as well as through
the Aux outs.
Power button
Turns the reverb effect on or off.
Type knob
Selects the desired reverb: Ambience, Chamber, SmallHall, LargeHall,
Room, SmallPlate, LargePlate, VocalHall, or VocalPlate.
Return knobs – Aux 1 through Aux 4
Adjusts the amount of reverb heard in the corresponding Aux out pair (when
the reverb is turned on). For example, the Aux 1 Return knob increases or
decreases the amount of reverb heard in Balanced Outs 1 and 2.
Parameters
These adjust various aspects of the reverb. Use the parameters to fine-tune
reverbs to meet your needs.
Pre-Delay
This is a delay that’s added to the diffused signal before it enters the
main part of the reverb. For all intents, it may be considered as delay
that is added to the reverberated signal. It is used to temporally separate
the reverb from the dry signal.
Mid-RT
MidRT is the mid frequency reverb time. As such, it is one of the pri-
mary controls affecting the length of the reverb tail. At low values, it
models a space with absorbent walls—a signal won’t bounce many times
before it dissipates. At high values, the walls are flat and extremely reflec-
tive. A signal lives a long time before dying away.
Size
Room Size corresponds roughly to the length of the longest wall of a
rectangular room. When the room size is small, the “walls” of this space
are closer together and the resultant reflection density increases. When
the room size is large, that density decreases.
High-Cut
This parameter is a low-pass filter in the recirculating part of the reverb.
It represents a frequency above which the tail dies away more quickly.
Main Outs
Adjusts the amount of reverb heard in the main outputs.

10
The Mixer - Balanced Out (Aux Out) Controls
These controls correlate to Balanced Outs 1-8 (located on the back panel).
Outs 1-2 control Balanced Outs 1 and 2, Outs 3-4 control Balanced outs 3
and 4, and so on.
Labels (Scribble Strips)
Double-click to assign a name to an aux pair.
Level knobs
Adjusts the aux pair master signal level.
Meters
Indicate aux pair signal level.
Direct Outs buttons
Enable the DAW playback streams to go directly out the corresponding out-
puts. For example, when Direct Out is on for Outs 1-2, only playback 1-2
will be heard on Outs 1-2.
The Mixer – Master Faders
Meters
Indicate post-fader signal level.
Master faders
Attenuate or add gain to the main signal.
Stereo button
Links the two master faders together so their settings are always the same.
Main to S/PDIF button
Controls what signal is streamed out the SPDIF jack. When lit (on), the
main mix is mirrored on the SPDIF jack. When not lit (off), the DAW
SPDIF Out stream is sent to the SPDIF jack.

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Channel Strip Dynamics
Inputs 1-8 in the Mixer feature Channel Strip Dynamics, including a gate,
compressor, limiter, and a gain fader. To open the Channel Strip Dynamics,
click the Gain Reduction meter/button at the top of the channel's "strip" in
the Mixer.
The gate, compresser, limiter, and gain fader are described in detail on the
following pages.

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Channel Strip Dynamics – Gate
On/Off button
Turns the Gate on or off.
Threshold knob
Sets the Threshold level. If there is any signal above the Threshold, the
Gate is Open, while a signal that is lower than the Threshold is attenuated.
Beware of setting the Threshold too high as it can cut off the tail end of
signals as they fade out (the sustain of a guitar note, a held piano chord, a
reverb tail, etc.). The Threshold is adjustable between –60 and 18 dB.
Attack knob
The Attack parameter sets the speed at which the Gate opens once the
Threshold has been crossed. It is recommended that very fast attack times be
used to catch the fronts of transient signals. The Attack parameter is adjust-
able between 0.1 to 200 mSec.
Release knob
The Release sets the rate at which the gate “closes” or attenuates once the
end of the Hold time is reached. Release can be adjusted between 350 and 5
dB/Sec.
Ratio knob
This control determines how much the signal will be attenuated once it
drops below the Threshold. This ratio works opposite from that of the com-
pressor or limiter. If a Ratio of 1:4 is selected, a signal that is 1dB below the
threshold will be reduced in gain so that it becomes 4dB below the thresh-
old. The Ratio is adjustable between 1:1 and 1:100.
Channel Strip Dynamics – Compressor
On/Off button
Turns the Compressor on or off.
Ratio knob
The Ratio is the rate at which the signal is reduced once the threshold is
crossed. A 2:1 ratio means that if the incoming signal is 2dB over the thresh-
old, the unit will compress the signal, and output a signal that only goes 1dB
over the threshold. Setting the Ratio at Inf:1 makes the compressor act as a
limiter. The range of the Ratio parameter is from 1:1 to 100:1.
Over Easy knob
OverEasy is a characteristic of dbx®Compressors and is essentially a “soft-
knee” function that occurs at about the compression threshold. On analog
dbx Compressors, OverEasy could only be turned on or off, but in the digi-
tal domain this parameter can have a range. This parameter can be adjusted
between 0 and 10 where 0 corresponds to no OverEasy, and 10 corresponds
to a very wide soft-knee region. To match the response of the classic dbx
160, an OverEasy of 6 is recommended.
Threshold knob
The Threshold is the signal level at which the unit begins to compress the
signal. If the level is set to -10 dBFS, then any signal larger than -10 dBFS
is compressed, and any signal that has a level that is lower than -10dBFS is

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not. For most signals the most natural sound is achieved when most of the
signal content remains just below the Threshold and only the peaks cross the
Threshold. The range of the Threshold fader is -60 to +18dBFS.
Auto button
Auto mode dynamically sets the Attack, Hold, and Release parameters in real
time, based on the incoming signal. This switch turns the Auto mode on and
off.
Attack knob
The Attack parameter sets how quickly the compressor starts to compress the
signal after it passes the threshold. The Attack can range between 0.1 mSec
to 200 mSec. The Attack time is dynamically set while in Auto mode.
Release knob
The Release parameter is the rate at which the Compressor comes out of
compression once the signal is back below the threshold and the Hold time
has elapsed. Release is measured in dB per second. For example, if Release is
set to 5 dB/Sec, and the signal has 10dB of gain reduction, the release time
is 2 Seconds. The Release range is from 350 dB/Sec to 5 dB/Sec. The Release
rate is dynamically set while in Auto mode.
Hold knob
The Hold parameter is the time the IO FW810S remains in compression
after the signal has dropped back below the threshold. Hold is adjustable
between 0 to 500 mSec and is dynamically set while in Auto mode.
Channel Strip Dynamics – Limiter
On/Off button
Turns the Limiter on or off.
Threshold knob
The Threshold is the signal level at which the unit begins to limit the sig-
nal. If the level is set to -10 dBFS, then any signal larger than -10 dBFS is
reduced in gain. The range of the Threshold fader is -60 to +18dBFS.
Auto button
This button turns Auto mode for the Limiter on and off. Auto mode
dynamically sets the Limiter Attack and Release based on the input signal.
Attack knob
The Attack parameter sets how quickly the Limiter starts to reduce the gain
of the signal after it passes the Threshold. The Attack can range between
0.1 mSec and 200 mSec. The Attack time is dynamically set while in Auto
mode.
Release knob
The Release parameter is the rate at which the Limiter comes out of gain
reduction once the signal is back below the threshold and the Hold time has
elapsed. Release is measured in dB per second. For example, if Release is set
to 5 dB/Sec, and the signal has 10dB of gain reduction, the release time is
2 Seconds. The Release range is from 350 dB/Sec to 5 dB/Sec. The Release
rate is dynamically set while in Auto mode.

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Hold knob
The Hold parameter is the time the IO FW810S continues to reduce gain
after the signal has dropped back below the threshold. Hold is adjustable
between 0 and 500 mSec and is dynamically set while in Auto mode.
Channel Strip Dynamics – Gain Fader
This boosts or cuts the signal’s gain level, and is adjustable between 20 and
–30 dB. This is a digital trim designed to be used to compensate for the gain
or reduction created by the Dynamics or EQ.
For example, if your compressor or limiter settings are reducing your sig-
nal level, you could increase the Gain fader to bring the level back up.
Conversely, if your EQ settings are pushing levels into clipping territory, you
could decrease the gain fader to lower the level.
EQ
Inputs 1-8 in the Mixer feature a parametric EQ where you can cut or boost
selected frequency bands. You can edit parameters with the control knobs
(described below), or you can click and drag the anchor points in the EQ's
display (shown above). To open or close the EQ for a specific channel, click
the EQ indicator/button just below the Gain Reduction meter/button for
that channel.
Note: To return to flat, set all knobs to 12 o’clock (double-click a knob to
return it to 12 o'clock).
Lo Shelf – top knob (–12 dB to 12 dB)
Sets the overall gain of the low shelf frequency.
Lo Shelf – bottom knob (40 Hz to 320 KHz)
Selects the frequency of the low shelf.