Lynx Studio Technology Aurora(N) User manual

Mastering Grade
Analog to Digital / Digital to Analog Converter
User Manual
Lynx Studio Technology, Inc.
www.lynxstudio.com
[e-mail]
Updated November 6, 2017

Purchase Date: _____________________________________________________
Dealer Name:______________________________________________________
Dealer Telephone:______________________________________________________
Aurora(n) Serial Number:______________________________________________________
I/O Module 1 Serial Number:______________________________________________________
I/O Module 2 Serial Number:______________________________________________________
I/O Module 3 Serial Number:______________________________________________________
I/O Module 4 Serial Number:______________________________________________________
LSlot Serial Number:______________________________________________________
Lynx Aurora(n) User Manual
Copyright © 1998-2017, Lynx Studio Technology Inc.

Aurora(n)™
User Manual
Table of Contents
1Introduction.................................................................................................................................................1
1.1 Overview.................................................................................................................................................1
1.2 Features...................................................................................................................................................1
1.3 Is this the only manual? ..........................................................................................................................2
1.4 In the Box................................................................................................................................................2
1.5 Power and Safety Information ................................................................................................................3
1.6 Rack-Mounting.......................................................................................................................................3
1.7 Operation Requirements .........................................................................................................................3
1.7.1 Audio Equipment Requirements...............................................................................................3
1.7.2 Computer requirements.............................................................................................................3
1.8 Using this manual ...................................................................................................................................4
1.9 Registration.............................................................................................................................................4
2Getting Started Aurora(n)-USB...................................................................................................................5
2.1 Cable Connections..................................................................................................................................5
2.2 Initial Setup.............................................................................................................................................6
2.3 Computer Setup ......................................................................................................................................6
2.3.1 Driver Installation for Windows 7/8/10....................................................................................6
2.3.2 Installation for Apple macOS ...................................................................................................7
2.3.3 Now what?................................................................................................................................7
3Getting Started Aurora(n) -Thunderbolt....................................................................................................8
3.1 Cable Connections..................................................................................................................................8
3.2 Initial Setup.............................................................................................................................................9
3.3 Computer Set Up ....................................................................................................................................9
3.3.1 Driver Installation for Microsoft Windows 7/8/10...................................................................9
3.3.2 Installation for Apple macOS .................................................................................................10
3.3.3 Now what?..............................................................................................................................11
4Getting Started Aurora(n)-Dante ............................................................................................................12
4.1 Cable Connections................................................................................................................................12
4.2 Dante Connections................................................................................................................................13
4.2.1 Dante computer Set Up...........................................................................................................13
4.2.2 Now what?..............................................................................................................................14
5Getting Started Aurora(n)-HD.................................................................................................................15
5.1 Cable Connections................................................................................................................................15
5.2 Computer Set Up ..................................................................................................................................16
6Front Panel Controls.................................................................................................................................18
6.1 Meter Page............................................................................................................................................19
6.1.1 All I/O Meter ..........................................................................................................................19
6.1.2 Horizontal Meter.....................................................................................................................20
6.2 Function menu ......................................................................................................................................21
6.2.1 Clock Setup.............................................................................................................................22
6.2.2 Analog Trim............................................................................................................................23
6.2.3 Routing....................................................................................................................................23
6.2.4 About ......................................................................................................................................24
6.2.5 Date & Time ...........................................................................................................................24
6.2.6 Backlight.................................................................................................................................25
6.2.7 SD Record Setup.....................................................................................................................25

6.2.8 SD Card...................................................................................................................................26
6.2.9 Sessions...................................................................................................................................26
6.2.10 Takes .......................................................................................................................................27
6.2.11 Firmware Update.....................................................................................................................27
6.2.12 Digital In Status.......................................................................................................................28
6.2.13 USB Mode...............................................................................................................................29
6.3 Phones Source ......................................................................................................................................29
7microSD Record and Play basics.............................................................................................................31
8Firmware Updates ....................................................................................................................................32
8.1 Update via Computer Connection........................................................................................................32
8.2 Updating the LT-USB ..........................................................................................................................32
8.3 Updating the LT-TB (Thunderbolt)......................................................................................................32
8.4 Updating the LT-DANTE.....................................................................................................................33
8.5 Update via microSD card .....................................................................................................................33
9Support ......................................................................................................................................................34
9.1 Lynx Website Support Resources ........................................................................................................34
9.2 Telephone Support ...............................................................................................................................34
9.3 Registering your Aurora(n) ....................................................................................................................34
9.4 Return Policy........................................................................................................................................ 34
10 Troubleshooting & User Tips...................................................................................................................35
11 Specifications.............................................................................................................................................36
12 Aurora(n) Performance Measurements....................................................................................................37
12.1 A/D THD+N Ratio vs Frequency................................................................................................37
12.2 A/D THD+N Ratio vs Frequency................................................................................................38
12.3 A/D Dynamic Range....................................................................................................................38
12.4 A/D Frequency Response at 48 kHz and 96 kHz Sample Rates..................................................39
12.5 A/D Crosstalk .............................................................................................................................. 40
12.6 D/A THD+N Ratio vs Frequency................................................................................................41
12.7 D/A Dynamic Range....................................................................................................................41
12.8 D/A Frequency Response at 96 kHz Sample Rate ......................................................................42
12.9 D/A Crosstalk .............................................................................................................................. 43
13 Certifications.............................................................................................................................................44
13.1 FCC DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY...............................................................................44
13.2 CE EMC DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY........................................................................44
13.3 CE SAFETY DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY .................................................................44
14 Warranty Information..............................................................................................................................45

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1Introduction
The Aurora(n)™ sets the standard for transparency, reliability and economy for a professional AD/DA
converter and is a staple of professional recording systems worldwide. The Aurora(n)carries on that proud
legacy with a complete redesign from the bottom up. This new member of the Lynx converter family expands
upon the feature set that made the original Aurora famous and integrates innovative design and programming
techniques to produce a result that sounds better, is more flexible, adapts to more contexts of use, and is
optimally suited to become the heart of your recording studio. The Aurora(n) was designed to provide the
detailed recording and playback that you require today, along with an expandable feature set that prepares you
for whatever the future holds for your studio.
Lynx designed the Aurora(n) to be the last converter you will ever need. It’s better because we’ve been
listening to what our customers have been asking for, and built a precision audio tool to meet their needs.
Let’s take a look under the hood:
1.1 Overview
The Aurora(n) is a truly modular converter, computer interface and stand-alone recording system. Rather than a
fixed feature set product, it is more accurately perceived as a “platform”. With interchangeable LSlot
expansion cards, and interchangeable I/O modules, the Aurora(n) you own today, and the one you use years
down the road, may differ considerably.
Connectivity to the rest of your system can be via one of today’s most popular interfacing methods:
Thunderbolt, Dante, USB or ProTools|HD. Later, you can change to a different connection method, or even
use the Aurora independent of a computer. I/O modules determine the number and type of I/O that your
Aurora(n) has. To keep the unit suited to your system, you can add and remove I/O modules later on. As an
example, you can start with an 8 channel analog USB system today, and upgrade to a 16 analog + 16 digital
Thunderbolt system in the future. You won’t be left behind as your needs, and the available technology,
changes.
The Aurora(n) is a single rack space unit that is passively cooled. This means there is no fan noise! Inside
there is a main board with logic and processing functions, I/O module boards for up to 32 channels of I/O, an
LSlot board and word clock and headphone modules. The back panel is designed to clearly label connectors
for any of the numerous combinations available.
1.2 Features
The Aurora(n) is loaded with enhancements over the original Aurora. For Analog-to-Digital and Digital-to-
Analog conversion, it utilizes next generation components and design techniques to provide the most
transparent and low distortion audio performance of any device in its class. With -113dB THD+N and 119dB
of Dynamic Range, the Aurora(n) carries on the Lynx legacy of high end conversion with low cost-per-
channel.
The modular design allows addition of 3-5 I/O expansion boards. An 8 analog I/O board and a 16 digital I/O
board are available now with microphone preamp, and analog summing modules available in the near future.
The front panel features two reference grade headphone outputs with level control. User controls allow for
routing of any input or output signals to the headphone jacks. A 480 by 128 TFT LCD display provides
immediate access to all levels and functions –also configurable for future functionality. Customize the
display to suit your taste and readability.
The microSD slot allows recording up to 32 channels of broadcast wave files, and supports all available
sample rates. This can be for a confidence recording during production, or to use as a standalone recording

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device. Single or multi-track recordings can be played back from the micro SD card to the Aurora(n) outputs –
perfect for installations or live performances requiring prerecorded tracks. microSD cards up 2 TB in capacity
are supported.
The Aurora chassis is generous with venting to support the passively cooled design. The rack ears have been
reinforced to protect against shock and impact when used within mobile or touring rigs.
On the back, the Aurora(n) features a switching, transformer-less universal power supply. A 1 In/3 Out word
clock module is perfect for using the Aurora(n) as a master clock, delivering first generation clock to
downstream devices. The Aurora(n) features “mastering grade” clock generation with accuracy greater than 7
ppm of drift. SynchroLock II insures that the Aurora maintains this excellent performance even when it is
configured as a clock slave.
An LSlot expansion port hosts the available connectivity cards, with options for USB 2.0, Thunderbolt,
ProTools|HD, and Dante. Aurora(n) will receive regular updates from easy to use firmware updates that can be
downloaded from the Lynx Studio Technology, Inc. website. Firmware updates allow the feature set to evolve
and adapt for future functionality, expansion cards and I/O modules.
A software mixer for the USB, Thunderbolt and Dante options allow for sophisticated routing and ease of
configuration. Save scenes with your most frequently used setups. Front panel and software based metering
options insure you have the tools you need to control signal flow and troubleshoot.
Aurora(n) is as comfortable in the concert hall and stadium as it is in the recording studio, a great choice for
broadcast, remote recording and even audiophile listening environments.
1.3 Is this the only manual?
For the Aurora(n) we’ve decided to try something new to allow users to get the most they can out of the gear,
quickly and efficiently while allowing for future updates. This manual will cover the basics, installation,
overview, enough to get you up and running.
For the more in depth topics, we are producing pages on our website with a combination of written support
materials and instructional videos. This will cover topics like using the software mixer, SD card recording and
playback, front panel navigation and operation, and multi-unit operation.
Please visit https://www.lynxstudio.com/support for more details.
1.4 In the Box
Before proceeding with the Aurora(n) setup, let’s make sure that you received everything that was included
with the purchase. In the box, you should find:
Aurora(n) AD/DA converter
AC Power Cord
Aurora(n) User’s Manual (this document)
USB only: One 6’ long Type-A to Type-B shielded USB 2.0 cable
Please verify that the back panel I/O matches the configuration that you ordered before proceeding with
installation!

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1.5 Power and Safety Information
To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not expose this equipment to rain or moisture. Do not block any of the
ventilation openings. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the grounding-type plug. A grounding type plug has
two blades and a third grounding prong. The third prong is provided for your safety. If the provided plug does
not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet. Protect the power cord
from being walked on or pinched, particularly at the plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they
connect to the Aurora(n). Unplug this device during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
Aurora(n) utilizes a state-of-the-art universal power supply. The power supply will auto-detect the voltage from
100V to 240V and conform appropriately. No manual voltage adjustment is necessary.
1.6 Rack-Mounting
The Aurora is able to be mounted in standard studio equipment racks. Please note that high performance, high
resolution A/D and D/A converters generate substantial heat. The amount of generated heat increases with
channel count and sample rate. 8 channel units running at 44.1kHz or 48kHz will generate very little heat
while 32 channel units running at 192kHz will produce more heat. For optimal performance and product
longevity, it is recommended to leave an empty rack space above and below the Aurora(n).
1.7 Operation Requirements
To operate Aurora(n) successfully with your existing equipment, first let’s verify that you have compatible
elements for best results.
1.7.1 Audio Equipment Requirements
Aurora(n) PHONES outputs are suitable for driving stereo headphones through a ¼” TRS connection. Any
standard set of headphones should work with the Aurora(n).
The Aurora(n)’s Analog I/O can operate with balanced or unbalanced, line-level analog audio equipment
(power amps, powered speakers, headphone amps, microphone pre-amps, mixing boards, etc.). The default
TRIM level is +4 dBu (+20dBu = 0dBFS with 16dB of headroom), and can be toggled to consumer level of -
10dBV in banks of four channels. Aurora(n) analog I/O uses industry-standard D-Sub connections and can be
used with Lynx branded D-Sub to XLR cable sets, or third party cable sets with whatever connector types are
required.
Aurora(n)’s word clock connector use industry-standard BNC connectors and works with standard 75 Ohm
word clock cables.
1.7.2 Computer requirements
Aurora(n) is configured to operate with Mac or PC computer systems via USB, Thunderbolt, ProTools|HD
(DigiLink) or Dante (Ethernet). Check the system requirements below to insure compatibility with your
platform and format.
It also is important to note that most professional audio applications place significant demands on your
computer’s resources, and it is therefore recommended that you meet or exceed the recommended system
requirements for your Digital Audio Workstation or audio playback software, which will likely be greater
than those listed for Aurora(n). Please refer to your audio software’s documentation for more information.
Desktop computer or laptop with at least Intel Core 2 @ 1.6 GHz, or AMD equivalent
At least 1GB RAM

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USB
One functional USB 2.0 port (compatible with USB 3 ports)
Thunderbolt
One functional Thunderbolt port (Note: With Thunderbolt 3, a TBT3 to TBT2 adapter is required)
Dante
Standard wired Ethernet network interface (100Mbps or Gigabit).
Gigabit (1000Mbps) interface is required for channel counts above 32x32 @48kHz (16x16 @ 96
kHz; 8x8 @ 192 kHz).
Managed Gigabit switch
Wireless LAN (Wi-Fi) Ethernet interfaces are not supported
ProTools HD
An Avid HD Native or HDX card properly installed and configured.
ProTools HD software version 8.1 or above
Note: Check Avid’s system requirements for the version of ProTools that you wish to run
Windows
Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 8.1 or Windows 10
macOS
macOS 10.8.5 or higher. Aurora(n)-DNT (Dante) requires macOS 10.10.5, 10.11.6 and 10.12
iOS
USB only
iOS 7 or higher
Apple iPad 2 or newer
iPad camera kit for USB connection
1.8 Using this manual
To insure smooth sailing with your new product, we recommend reading through the entire manual before
using Aurora(n). Thereafter, use the manual as a reference as needed when questions arise.
The following typographic conventions are used in this manual:
ALL UPPER CASE TEXT refers to a specific parameter selection control (i.e. SYNC SOURCE) or a
cable connection.
Underlined Text indicates a parameter selection value or menu option (i.e. Function).
Phrases, such as: Start > Programs > Lynx Studio Technology use the greater than symbol (“>”) to
indicate multiple menu options or mouse selections within a software control context.
1.9 Registration
Lynx is committed to providing you with the best service possible. To help us serve you better, please be sure
to register your Aurora(n). Register on the web at: https://www.lynxstudio.com/register
Once you are registered you will automatically receive notifications of new products and upgrades.

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2Getting Started Aurora(n)-USB
Aurora(n) was designed to be a product that is so easy to use that this section of the manual would scarcely be
necessary. However, it is quicker to learn how the device works in one go, than to spend precious minutes
figuring things out by randomly pressing buttons. We recommend reading this section thoroughly, before
putting the unit to serious use, if you can manage it.
If you can verify functionality before rack mounting the unit that can be helpful. This just keeps our options
open if we need to get “under the hood”. We’ll start with our cable connections, turn the unit on, then set it up
for use with the computer.
2.1 Cable Connections
Due to the modular nature of Aurora(n), the back panel can look very different for different configurations. For
the time being, we will show a unit with 16 channels of analog I/O. Your unit may have a different number of
channels, but the basic configuration information is still pertinent.
A 16 channel Aurora(n) has 2 of the A8IOE 8 in and 8 out expansion modules installed. These have one 25-pin
D-Sub connector for 8 channels of analog input, and one D-Sub for 8 channels of analog output. The USB
version of Aurora(n) supports a maximum of 16 channels of I/O. With the other connection methods,
configurations up to 32 channels are available. Let’s take a look at the back panel and explore the cabling
considerations for all of the I/O we’ll see here.
Line In Channels: Use a 25-pin D-Sub cable to connect this to Line Level analog signal sources. The
Lynx CBL-AIN-85 is an appropriate cable choice and has 8 Female XLR connectors to attach to connected
equipment. Alternative, third party analog D-Sub cables sets can be used for whatever connector type the
signal source requires (D-Sub, 1/4”, RCA, etc.). These inputs support balanced or unbalanced operation.
Note: for unbalanced cable sets, 4.5 meters (15 feet) is the longest recommended cable length.
Line Out Channels: Use a 25-pin D-Sub cable to connect this to Line Level analog signal destinations.
The Lynx CBL-AOUT-85 is an appropriate cable choice and has 8 Male XLR connectors to attach to
connected equipment. Alternative, third party analog D-Sub cables sets can be used for whatever connector
type the signal source requires (D-Sub, 1/4”, RCA, etc.). These outputs support balanced or unbalanced
operation. Note: for unbalanced cable sets, 4.5 meters (15 feet) is the longest recommended cable length. 
Word clock I/O: Aurora(n) features one word clock input and three word clock outputs. This is an ideal
configuration if you need to integrate other digital devices into your studio, with the Aurora(n) as a master
clock. The word clock outputs deliver low jitter, time aligned clock signals to downstream devices. If the
Aurora(n) is a clock slave, the new Lynx SynchroLock II circuitry insures minimal jitter even from
compromised clock sources. Use standard 75 Ω word clock cable with BNC connectors. Recommended
maximum length is 9 meters (30 feet).
USB: Cable connections may vary by system. Use the included USB cable or equivalent to connect
Aurora(n) to a USB 2.0 equipped computer. If using a third party cable, make sure that it is USB 2.0 compliant.
5 meters (16.4 feet) maximum.
IEC Power Connector: Use the included AC power cord. The Aurora(n) has a switching power supply and
can be used with 100, 115, 230 or 240V systems without an external transformer.

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In Addition to the rear panel jack pack, there are two remaining cable connections on the front panel. The
PHONES jacks use a standard ¼” TRS connector, and is capable of driving the full range of stereo
headphones available.
2.2 Initial Setup
Let’s verify primary functionality before racking the unit and connecting audio cables. Before setting up
Aurora for use, remove it from the box and verify that the box contents described in section 1.4 are all
present. If all items are present, connect the Aurora AC power cord to a grounded AC Outlet, or power
distribution unit. Switch on the power switch on the front panel of the unit (note: the “|” position
on the power button is “On” and the “O” is “Off”.).
Connect the included USB cable from the USB port on the back of the Aurora(n) to a USB 2 port on your
computer. Next we’ll install drivers, verify good operation, and then connect up the rest of your equipment.
2.3 Computer Setup
All driver files and utilities mentioned in the subsequent installation steps are available on our website at:
https://www.lynxstudio.com/downloads
If a previous driver version is present, it will automatically be removed as part of the driver installation
process.
Note: Only Windows requires a driver to be installed. No driver installation is required for macOS or iOS.
2.3.1 Driver Installation for Microsoft Windows 7/8/10
1. Start with the Aurora(n) powered up but with the USB cable disconnected. The driver should be installed
prior to connecting the cable.
2. Download the most recent driver from the https://www.lynxstudio.com/downloads website and save the
file to a convenient location.
3. Double-click the downloaded Aurora_DriverSetup_vX.XX.X.exe file (where X.XX.X is the version
number).
4. When the User Account Control
window pops up, press “Yes” to
continue.
5. Press Next to continue.
6. Press Install to continue.
7. Press Next to complete the
installation
8. If this is a driver upgrade, you will be promoted to disconnect the
Aurora and reconnected it.