Mackie D8B User manual

D8B Manual • Chapter 1 • page 3
Chapter 1
Getting Ready

D8B Manual • Chapter 1 • page 4
Introduction
This Guide reflects the newest and most
progressive features and options available
on the Mackie Digital 8•Bus. The D8B is
designed to grow with the audio industry. Each
software revision provides new features and
capabilities, updating your console and ensuring
that your investment remains current for many
years to come.
An increasing number of other manufacturers
have jumped on the D8B band wagon. Through
affiliations with companies like Apogee, TC
Electronics, Massenburg, dbx, and Antares,
Mackie Designs has provided an environment
where third-party plug-ins let you design the
perfect system for your needs—all within the
Digital 8•Bus architecture!
About This Manual
This manual is the “let’s just do it” guide. Each
chapter covers an important consideration:
• Chapter 1 describes basic setup procedures with
an emphasis on achieving successful routing of an
audio source to your monitors.
• Chapter 2 briefly describes all surface controls.
• Chapter 3 describes the on-screen interface.
• Chapter 4 highlights some typical applications.
If you’d like to move ahead at light-speed, try
jumping directly to Chapter 4, using Chapters 2 and 3
as a reference. If you crave details, or if you’re new
to recording—especially digital recording—don’t
forget to check out our website for more info at
www.mackie.com.
Let’s et It Working
This is a step-by-step guide to get the Digital 8•Bus
working. We assume you’ve pulled everything out
of the box and are ready to start working.
First, you’ll need:
• 1 Stereo Power Amplifier
• 1 pair of Monitor Speakers (you can substitute a
pair of powered monitors for the power amplifier/
monitor speaker combo, or some stereo
headphones)
• Miscellaneous cables
• 1 cup of coffee (we think any native Seattle-based
beverage heightens the Mackie experience)
Hooking Stuff Up
First, connect the Remote CPU to the console.
1. Connect the DC power cable between the Remote
CPU and the console. Rotate the outer sleeve of
the connector clockwise until the sleeve is snug
and finger-tight.
Caution: The Remote CPU weighs 42 pounds,
so we recommend that if you mount it in a
rack, you place it at the bottom of the rack
and provide additional support at the rear of
the unit.
PARALLEL
MOUSE
CONCEIVED, DESIGNED, AND MANUFACTURED BY MACKIE DESIGNS INC • WOODINVILLE • WA • USA • MADE IN USA • FABRIQUE AU USA • COPYRIGHT ©1997 •
THE FOLLOWING ARE TRADEMARKS OR REGISTERED TRADEMARKS OF MACKIE DESIGN INC. "MACKIE", "DIGITAL SYSTEMS", D8B AND THE "RUNNING MAN" FIGURE •
CONSOLE DATA
KEYBOARD
CONSOLE
DATA
POWER
SUPPLY
WARNING:
SHUTOFFREMOTEPOWERSUPPLYBEFORECONNECTING
ORDISCONNECTINGPOWERSUPPLYCABLEFROMCONSOLE
AUX
1
AUX
2
AUX
3
AUX
4
AUX
5
AUX
6
AUX
7
AUX
8
AUX
9
AUX
10
AUX
11
AUX
12
+48V
PH
LINE IN
INSERT
TALKBACK
PHONES 2
19
13
PUNCH I/O
PHONES 1
20
14
21
15
22
16
2 TRACK IN A
23
17
24
18
MASTER OUT
+48V
PH
LINE IN
INSERT
+48V
PH
LINE IN
INSERT
+48V
PH
LINE IN
INSERT
+48V
PH
LINE IN
INSERT
+48V
PH
LINE IN
INSERT
+48V
PH
LINE IN
INSERT
+48V
PH
LINE IN
INSERT
+48V
PH
LINE IN
INSERT
+48V
PH
LINE IN
INSERT
11
MIC MIC
10
MIC
9
MIC
8
MIC
7
MIC
6
MIC
5
MIC
4
MIC
3
MIC
2
MIC
1
MIC
+48V
PH
LINE IN
INSERT
+48V
PH
LINE IN
INSERT
2 TRACK IN B STUDIO OUT
2 TRACK IN C
MASTER OUT
LR
L
R
CR
MAIN
BUS OUT 1-8
&
SURROUND OUT
CR
NEAR FIELD
AUX OUT
(BAL /UNBAL )
LINE INPUTS
(BAL/UNBAL)
LR
LR
LR
LR
LR
LR
PATENTS PENDING
MACKIE DESIGNS
THIS DEVICE COMPLIES WITH PART 15 OF THE FCC RULES. OPERATION IS SUBJECT TO THE FOLLOWING TWO CONDITIONS
1) THIS DEVICE MAY NOT CAUSE HARMFUL INTERFERENCE AND
2) THIS DEVICE MUST ACCEPT ANY INTERFERENCE RECEIVED THAT MAY CAUSE UNDESIRED OPERATION
TAP E 1 - 8 TAPE 9 - 16 TAPE 17 - 24
DIGITAL EFFECTS CARDS DIGITAL I/O SYNC ALT I/O TAPE IN/OUTS
DIGITAL I/O 1
AES/EBU
DIGITAL I/O
2
S/PDIF
OUT
IN
IN
OUT
SERIAL NUMBER MANUFACTURING DATE
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
REPLACEWITH THE SAMETYPE FUSE AND RATING.
DISCONNECTSUPPLY CORDBEFORE CHANGING FUSE UTILISE UNFUSIBLE DE RECHANGEDE MÊME TYPE.
DEBRANCHERAVANT DEREMPLACER LE FUSIBLE
WARNING: TOREDUCE THERISK OF FIREOR ELECTRICSHOCK, DO NOT
EXPOSETHIS EQUIPMENTTO RAIN ORMOISTURE. DONOT REMOVE COVER.
NOUSER SERVICEABLEPARTS INSIDE. REFERSERVICING TOQUALIFIED PERSONNEL.
CAUTION
AVIS: RISQUE DE CHOC É LECTRIQUE— NEPAS OUVRIR
CONCEIVED, DESIGNED, AND MANUFACTURED BY MACKIE DESIGNS INC • WOODINVILLE • WA • USA • MADE IN USA • FABRIQUE AU USA • COPYRIGHT ©1997 •
THE FOLLOWING ARE TRADEMARKS OR REGISTERED TRADEMARKS OF MACKIE DESIGN INC. "MACKIE", "DIGITAL SYSTEMS", D8B AND THE "RUNNING MAN" FIGURE •
56 INPUT 72 CHANNEL
DIGITAL MIXER
12
A B C D
WARNING: SHUT OFF POWER TO UNITBEFORE INSTALLING OR REMOVING CARDS!
ANALOG I/O
ANALOG IN ANALOG OUT
120/230V
1.0/0.5A
120V
60Hz,2.8A
SERIAL NUMBER MANUFACTURING DATE
MACKIE DESIGNS
THIS DEVICE COMPLIE S WITH PART 15 OF THE FCC RULES. OPERATION IS SUBJECT TO
THE FOLLOWING TWO CONDITIONS 1) THIS DEVICE MAY NOT CAUSE HAR MFUL
INTERFERENCE AND 2) THIS DEVICE MUST ACCEPT ANY INTERFERENCE RECEIVED THAT
MAY CAUSE UNDESIRED OPERATION
Data Cable
DC Power
Cable
Multi-SyncVideo Monitor
PS/2 Mouse
PC-Compatible Keyboard

D8B Manual • Chapter 1 • page 5
2. Connect the data cable between the Remote CPU
and the console. Rotate the thumbscrews on each
connector clockwise until they are finger tight.
3. Make sure the POWER switch on the Remote
CPU is off.
4. Connect the detachable linecord to the Remote
CPU. Shortly, we’ll connect to AC power.
Next, connect the keyboard, mouse,
and video monitor.
These connections are optional, but we strongly
recommend using them to get the most from your
new Digital 8•Bus console.
PARALLEL
MOUSE
CONCEIVED, DESIGNED, AND MANUFACTURED BY MACKIE DESIGNS INC • WOODINVILLE • WA • USA • MADE IN USA • FABRIQUE AU USA • COPYRIGHT ©1997 •
THE FOLLOWING ARE TRADEMARKS OR REGISTERED TRADEMARKS OF MACKIE DESIGN INC. "MACKIE", "DIGITAL SYSTEMS", D8B AND THE "RUNNING MAN" FIGURE •
CONSOLE DATA
KEYBOARD
PARALLEL
MOUSE
CONCEIVED, DESIGNED, AND MANUFACTURED BY MACKIE DESIGNS INC • WOODINVILLE • WA • USA • MADE IN USA • FABRIQUE AU USA • COPYRIGHT ©1997 •
THE FOLLOWING ARE TRADEMARKS OR REGISTERED TRADEMARKS OF MACKIE DESIGN INC. "MACKIE", "DIGITAL SYSTEMS", D8B AND THE "RUNNING MAN" FIGURE •
CONSOLE DATA
KEYBOARD
Mouse Video
Keyboard
CPU MIDI
Ethernet

D8B Manual • Chapter 1 • page 6
1. Plug a PC-compatible keyboard into the KEY-
BOARD port on the back of the Remote CPU.
2. Plug a PS/2 compatible mouse into the MOUSE
port on the back of the Remote CPU.
3. Plug an SVGA video monitor into the VIDEO port
on the back of the Remote CPU.
Note: We highly recommend the use of a multisync
monitor;however, if one is unavailable you must use a
monitor capable of at least a 72Hz scan rate. We
recommend using a 17-inch or larger monitor for best
results.
Now connect the audio inputs and outputs
to the console.
1. Connect the CR NEAR FIELD or CR MAIN
outputs on the back of the Digital 8•Bus to the
line inputs of the power amplifier. These outputs
are wired balanced when using a tip-ring-sleeve
connector or unbalanced when using a tip-sleeve
connector. Use instrument/line-level cable for this
connection.
2. Connect monitor speakers to the output of the
power amplifier using speaker cable. Always use
high quality wire. The sound you hear will be
more reliable and accurate.
Note: If you’re using powered monitors, connect the
Left and Right CR NEAR FIELD outputs directly to
the line inputs on the powered monitors.
Optional Refreshments
Have a sip of java and a biscotti.
Details
Make sure the POWER switch on the Remote CPU
is off. Now plug the linecord into an AC outlet
properly configured for your model. Leave the
POWER switch off while connecting the
peripheral equipment to the console.
Note:TheRemoteCPUshouldbetreatedasyouwould
any computer. We recommend that you use a UPS
(Uninterruptible Power Supply) and a surge protector
on the AC line.
Caution:Never connect ordisconnect anything
except microphone or line-level inputs while
the console is powered up.
Connect directly from CR NEARFIELD or CR MAIN
to powered reference monitors using line-level cable.
Connect from D8B outputs to power amp using line
cable, then from amp to non-powered speakers using
speaker cable.
MASTER OUT
CR
MAIN
CR
NEAR FIELD
LR
LR
LR
Line Cable Line Cable
Speaker Cable Speaker Cable
MASTER OUT
CR
MAIN
CR
NEAR FIELD
LR
LR
LR
Line Cable Line CableLine Cable Line Cable
Powered
Monitors
Non-powered
Monitors

D8B Manual • Chapter 1 • page 7
These buttons let you access four completely
different sets of controls, referred to as Fader Banks.
Even though only one Fader Bank is accessible at a
time, all four are fully functional at all times. Use of
a computer monitor provides on-screen control of
two fader banks at a time.
SHIFT
MASTERS
1-24 25-48
49-72
(TRACK) (MONITOR)
BANK SELECT
EFFECTS
MIC/LINE TAPE IN
Now that you’ve got the Digital 8•Bus
powered up, try the different fader banks.
• Press the MIC/LINE button and set up a
random set of fader levels.
• Press the TAPE IN button and set up a
completely different set of fader levels.
• Do the same for EFFECTS and MASTER.
Turn on the power switch on the front panel of the
Remote CPU, then turn on the power to all your
peripheral equipment. The Digital 8•Bus takes a few
moments to load the Mackie Real Time OS
(Operating System) and initialize the DSPs. When
the Vacuum Fluorescent Display (VFD) in the
onboard Fat Channel Section indicates EQ settings
for channel 1, the console is ready to use.
Fast Track Power-Up
1. Switch D8B power on.
2. Verify that SPEAKER LEVEL
V-Pot is turned all the way down.
3. Switch on all peripherals
(processors, recorders,
interfaces, etc.).
4. Switch on monitor amplifier or powered
monitors.
A New Way of Thinking:
Four Consoles in One!
With the Digital 8•Bus, what you get is way more
than what you see at first glance. Directly above
the Master L/R fader, locate four buttons labeled
MIC/LINE, TAPE IN, EFFECTS, and MASTERS.
Fader Bank 1
Channels 1-24
Mic/Line
Tracking
Channels 1-24
Channels 25-48
FX Return 1-16; ALT Return 1-8
Groups 1-8; MIDI 1-8; Bus 1-8
Fader Bank 2
Channels 25-48
Monitor/Tape In
Mixdown
Fader Bank 3
Channels 49-72
FX Return 1-16
ALT Return 1-8
Fader Bank 4
Virtual Groups 1-8
MIDI Controllers 1-8
Bus 1-8 Masters
SHIFT
MASTERS
1-24 25-48
49-72
(TRACK) (MONITOR)
BANK SELECT
EFFECTS
MIC/LINE TAPE IN
SHIFT
MASTERS
1-24 25-48
49-72
(TRACK) (MONITOR)
BANK SELECT
EFFECTS
MIC/LINE TAPE IN
SHIFT
MASTERS
1-24 25-48
49-72
(TRACK) (MONITOR)
BANK SELECT
EFFECTS
MIC/LINE TAPE IN
SHIFT
MASTERS
1-24 25-48
49-72
(TRACK) (MONITOR)
BANK SELECT
EFFECTS
MIC/LINE TAPE IN
T RACK
F AST

D8B Manual • Chapter 1 • page 8
As you switch back and forth between all four
fader banks, the faders will move to their respec-
tive settings for each bank. You’ll find that this
becomes your most popular demonstration. Your
friends will love it; your spouse will love it; your
pet will be mildly amused.
This exercise demonstrates a process that
will become second nature as you increase your
skills on the Digital 8•Bus. The layered approach
to digital mixing is actually very convenient, while
at the same time providing tons of features in a
compact package. This mixer contains more
flexibility and features than most consoles taking
up 12 or more feet of desk space and costing up to
50 times more!
Fader Bank Selection
• MIC/LINE button = Fader Bank 1
(Channels 1–24)
• TAPE IN button = Fader Bank 2 (Channels 25–48)
• EFFECTS button = Fader Bank 3 (Channels 49–
72: Internal Effects Returns, FX 1–16, and ALT
RETurns 1–8)
• MASTERS button = Fader Bank 4 (Virtual Groups
1–8, MIDI Controllers 1–8, Bus Masters 1–8)
This architecture provides a total of 56 inputs,
with Fader Banks 1 and 2 providing 48 inputs, and
the 8 ALT Returns in Fader Bank 3 providing
another 8 inputs.
One of the primary applications the Digital 8•Bus
was designed for is multitrack recording (generally
up to 24 tracks). This involves tracking and
monitoring, bouncing, overdubbing, and mixdown.
You can think of Fader Bank 1 and Fader Bank 2 as
two separate mixing consoles, where Fader Bank 1
is used for tracking and Fader Bank 2 is used for
monitoring and mixdown.
Two 24-track machines can easily be connected
to the D8B for mixdown: one into the Fader Bank 1
line inputs, and the other into the Fader Bank 2
(Tape) I/O cards. This setup provides an amazing
amount of control through automation, routing, and
DSP!
Note:AlthoughtheD8Bisperfectlysetupfor24-track
recording,it’spossibletoroutechannelsto46outputs,
all at the same time: 24 direct outputs (3 cards),
8buses(AltI/O),2mainstereooutputs,and12auxes.
Let’s et Some Sound Happening
• Mixer Power On.
• Monitors connected and on.
• Microphone or Instrument
plugged into Channel One.
• Phantom Power button
pushed in if required.
• Fader Bank 1 (MIC/LINE selected).
• Press the MIC button down when using a
microphone; leave it up for an instrument.
• While sound source is active, adjust TRIM for
a reading around –15 on the channel 1 meter.
• Select L–R in the ASSIGNMENT section, then
verify that the ASSIGN button on Channel One
lights up green.
• In the CONTROL ROOM section, select
MASTER L–R.
• Select the desired SPEAKERS in the
CONTROL ROOM section.
• Set the SPEAKER LEVEL V-pot to about
11:00.
• Turn the MASTER L/R fader up to unity.
• Slowly raise the level of the Channel One fader
until you hear sound.
• The Master L/R meters should display levels.
• Rejoice in the sense of accomplishment while
listening to crystal-clear audio.
Refer to Figure 1-1 for the Fast Track Graphic
description of this procedure.
Details
1. Especially for digital connections, it’s important
that the Digital 8•Bus is powered up first. This
procedure helps establish the mixer as a primary
source in the digital sync scheme.
2. Be sure you’ve noted which output is connected to
the monitor system(s) and be sure they’re
powered up.
3. Be sure the microphone or instrument is plugged
into Channel 1 and that Fader Bank 1 (MIC/LINE) is
selected. It doesn’t take long to get used to
selecting the fader bank you really need to access;
however, at first make a conscious effort to
include this step in your routine.
4. Be sure the button below the gain trim labeled
MIC is pressed down for a microphone or is in the
up position for an instrument When working fast
this button is sometimes overlooked. If it’s in the
wrong position there won’t be any signal to play
with. That’s bad. Get in the habit of following the
signal from the source to the destination—step by
step. If you don’t leave any steps out you’ll be
successful every time.
TRACK
FAST

D8B Manual • Chapter 1 • page 9
5. Start with gain TRIM down. While talking into the
mic or playing the instrument, turn it up until the
level stays around –15 to –10 on the channel one
meter.
TRIM
1
M
I
C
060
- 20dB +40dB
L
I
N
E
MIC
Note:TheTRIMandMIC button status are two of the
only controls that are not written into automation or
snapshotdata.That’sadisadvantageofanalogcircuitry,
but these controls are necessary. Running a strip of
whitesafe-releasetapeacrossthetoplabelstripallows
forcarefulrecording ofeach channel’sTRIMleveland
MIC button status. This kind of tape can be removed
and folded for storage with session documentation,
guaranteeing accurate settings whenever you need to
restore the mix.
6. In the CONTROL ROOM section, press the
MASTER L–R button so the yellow light comes
on. Assigning this button sends whatever is
coming from the MASTER L/R fader to the
selected speakers.
OR
2 TRACK A DIGITAL IN 1
2 TRACK B DIGITAL IN 2
2 TRACK C MASTER
L-R
NEAR FIELD MAIN
DIM TALKBACK
CONTROL ROOM
SPEAKER LEVEL
MONO
SPEAKERS
Figure 1-1 Completing the Microphone Signal Path
Follow this graphic map to quickly complete a signal path using a microphone to capture the
sound source..
MIC
TRIM
1
M
I
C
060
- 20dB +40dB
L
I
N
E
SHIFT
MASTERS
1-24 25-48
49-72
(TRACK) (MONITOR)
BANK SELECT
EFFECTS
MIC/LINE TAPE IN
ASSIGN
WRITE
ASSIGN
WRITE
REC/RDY REC/RDY
BUS 2
BUS 7 BUS 8
L-R ROUTE TO
TAPE
ASSIGNMENT
ASSIGN ASSIGN
ASSIGN
ASSIGN ASSIGN
1
25
10
dB
30
20
10
40
5
5
U
60
50
FX 1
GROUP 1
MASTER
L/R
10
dB
30
20
10
40
5
5
U
60
50
2 TRACK C MASTER
L-R
NEAR FIELD MAIN
SPEAKER LEVEL
MONO
SPEAKERS
1
25
OL
2
60
4
7
10
15
20
25
30
40
50
OR
Power On
Speakers On and
Connected to Mixer
Mic into
Mic Input
Phantom
power
Select Fader
Bank 1 Mic Button
Down
Trim Up Until
Channel Meter Reads
Around –15 dBFS
Select L/R in ASSIGNMENT, then
Verify Assign on Channel Strip
Verify
MASTER L/R
Master Fader
at Unity
Raise Channel
Level to Hear
Select Monitors/Set
V-pot Around 11:00
T RACK
F AST

D8B Manual • Chapter 1 • page 10
BUS 2
BUS 7 BUS 8
L-R ROUTE TO
TAPE
ASSIGNMENT
ASSIGN ASSIGN
ASSIGN
ASSIGN ASSIGN
TRIM TRIM
12
10
30
20
40
60
50
10
30
20
40
60
50
L
I
N
E
ASSIGN
WRITE
ASSIGN
WRITE
REC/RDY REC/RDY
7. In the ASSIGNMENT section, verify that when
L–R is selected (green light on) the ASSIGN
button in Channel One lights up green. This is
basic bus assignment procedure. Anything you
want to come out the MASTER L–R bus must
light up on the assign button of each desired
channel. In similar fashion, any channel that
needs to be assigned to Bus 1 must have the
channel assign button lit when Bus 1 is selected
in the ASSIGNMENT section.
BUS 1 BUS 2
BUS 3 BUS 4
BUS 5
BUS 7
BUS 6
BUS 8
L-R ROUTE TO
TAPE
ASSIGNMENT
ASSIGN ASSIGN
ASSIGN ASSIGN
ASSIGN ASSIGN
ASSIGN ASSIGN
ASSIGN ASSIGN
8. Be sure the SPEAKER button is lit that
corresponds to your monitor system
connection—that the yellow light shows on
NEAR FIELD or MAIN.
9. Turn the SPEAKER LEVEL V-pot up to about
11:00.
10. Turn the MASTER L/R fader up to unity.
11. Slowly raise the level of the Channel One fader
until you hear sound.
Signal Routing Concept
The Digital 8•Bus, with its multilayer technology,
literally performs the work of at least four consoles.
To help organize the various connections, visualize
each bank as a new console. The “V” or “Multi-V”
diagrams that follow provide a simple and accurate
mental image of the signal flow and/or processing
while you put the Digital 8•Bus through its paces.
Figure 1-2 demonstrates a simple connection
scheme utilizing a microphone that’s routed though
the D8B to the monitor system.
Figure 1-3 demonstrates a tracking setup. Notice
how the graphic representation of two separate fader
banks supports the mental image of the D8B concept:
sound source into the MIC/LINE bank, then routed
to the multitrack, then back into the TAPE IN bank.
Figure 1-4 adds a mixdown recorder. The beauty
of this concept lies in its flexibility. Start at the
beginning, middle, or end of the signal path—it
doesn’t matter. When the routing concept is
understood, the process is simple.

D8B Manual • Chapter 1 • page 11
Channel 1–24
Mic/Line In Tape or Bus Outs to
Multitrack Inputs
Multitrack
From Tape to Channel
25–48 Inputs Monitor Outs
to Speakers
Channels 1–24
Tracking Mixer
Fader Bank 1
Channels 25–48
Tape Returns
Fader Bank 2
Figure 1-3 Setting Up to Track
The graphic below highlights the simplicity of the D8B tracking procedure. Once levels to
tape are set using the Channel Trim controls it’s typically best to monitor the mix from
the TAPE IN Fader Bank throughout tracking.
Figure 1-2 Simple Microphone Connection/Basic Li e Setup
This setup illustrates the most fundamental use of the D8B. A very basic live setting might
require only this limited level of complexity.
Channel 1–24
Mic/Line In Monitor Outs to Speakers
Channels 1–24
Tracking Mixer
Fader Bank 1
TRACK
FAST
TRACK
FAST
Channel Assign-
ments Routed to
L/R Mix

D8B Manual • Chapter 1 • page 12
Signal Flow
The previous diagrams help create an accurate
mental image of how the D8B functions. The signal
flow diagram in Figure 1-5 (on the next page) looks
more closely at the actual path the signal takes from
a point of origin to a chosen destination. This is a
simplified flow-diagram designed to provide a “bird’s-
eye” view. Follow the signal from left to right. Notice
the first thing the signal encounters, after the analog
inputs (including the analog trim), is the analog-to-
digital converter. The audio remains in the digital
domain from that point until it finally converts back
to analog at the main outputs, bus outputs, and
external aux sends. Simply follow the arrows to
discover the path—you never know where you might
end up. For a more detailed block diagram of the
D8B signal path refer to Figure 1-6.
Keep Close Track of These Concepts
1. The Channel Select Display, next to the Master
L/R meters, always displays the currently
selected channel number no matter which Fader
Bank is selected. If an adjustment is required in
the Fat Channel, verify that the channel you
intend to adjust is displayed here.
Outboard Effects,
MIDI Gear, Live
Room Mics, etc. Tape or Bus Outs
Multitrack
From Tape to Channel
25–48 Inputs
Monitor Outs
to Speakers
Channels 1–24
Tracking Mixer
Fader Bank 1
Channels 25–48
Monitor Tape
Fader Bank 2
From Master Out to
Mixdown Recorder
From Mix Playback to
2-Track Input (Analog
or Digital)
Figure 1-4 Basic Mixdown Setup
This is a basic mixdown setup. Live Mic/Line input source might be used for any audio
source: live vocals instruments or effects returns.
Monitor Mixdown Machine
at CONTROL ROOM in the
Master Section
Phones
Use this diagram for troubleshooting!
TRACK
FAST
CHANNEL
OL
LEFT RIGHT
2
50
4
7
10
15
20
25
30
35
40
2. Be sure you verify the Bank Selection whenever
you need to make a change. At first it’s easy to
forget to check the Fader Bank status. However,
once you’ve adjusted to the layered consoles,
maneuvering throughout the entire console will
become second nature.
SHIFT
MASTERS
1-24 25-48
49-72
(TRACK) (MONITOR)
BANK SELECT
EFFECTS
MIC/LINE TAPE IN
33

D8B Manual • Chapter 1 • page 13
Analog
Inputs
CH 1-48
Optional
Digital Tape
I/O Card
Level to
Tape To Tape Outputs
Pre-DSP
Insert
L
R
C annel
Fader
Aux Send
Level
C annel
Pan
Bus Master
Bus 1-8
Master L/R
Fader
Digital to
Analog
Converter
Digital to
Analog
Converter
Digital to
Analog
Converter
Main
Out
Bus 1-8
Outputs
Aux
Sends
Lake Sammamis
6 miles
AES/EBU Out
Main Inserts
S/PDIF Out
CR
Nearfield
Out
CR
Main
Out
Studio
Out
Bus
Assign
Master Aux
Send Level
Internal
FX
FX
Returns
DAC
From
L/R Out
Main L/R
Meter
C annel
Meter
Tracking/Routing
Monitoring
S/PDIF
AES/EBU
2 TRK A
2 TRK B
2 TRK C
Analog to
Digital
Converter
Control
Room
Select
DSP
(EQ, Comp,
Gate, etc.)
Studio
Level
Main
Speaker
Level
Near Field
Speaker
Level
P ones 1
Out
Cue Mix 1
Level
P ones 2
Out
Cue Mix 2
Level
DAC
Auxes 9/10
Auxes 11/12
C . 49 54
Pre
Post
Sends 1 – 8
R L
Post-DSP
Insert
Figure 1-5 Signal-Flow Diagram
Simply begin at the far left star and follow the route the signal must take to reach the master output.
DSP includes all dynamics equalization and phase controls.
3. When using the V-Pot to adjust a parameter,
make sure it’s assigned to make the change you
need. Since the V-Pot is a multifunction
control, it’s easy to assume it’s doing the job you
want when it might be changing a completely
different setting. Intentionally check the status
of the V-Pot before making a change.
MASTER
PAN SOLO
AUX 9 - 10 AUX 11
- 12
PAN PAN
AUX 7 AUX 8
AUX 5 AUX 6
AUX 1
AUX 3
AUX 2
AUX 4
LEVEL TO TAPE DIGITAL TRIM
1-24 1-48

D8B Manual • Chapter 1 • page 14
LINE IN
48V
MIC IN
A to D
A to D
A to D
MIC/LINE 1 (t roug 12)
MIC/LINE
TRIM
ANALOG STEREO
INSERT/RETURN
TRIM
LINE IN
LINE 13 (t roug 24)
FROM TAPE 25 (t roug 32)
Analog 8 c annel TAPE CARD
(optional)
A to D
FROM TAPE 33 (t roug 40)
Analog 8 c annel TAPE CARD
(optional)
A to D
FROM TAPE 41 (t roug 48)
Analog 8 c annel TAPE CARD
(optional)
FX card A. inputs 49–52
Inputs 53–64
(optional — B, C, D cards)
ALT I/O CARD 65-72 (optional)
TDIF/ADAT 8 c annel format
(optional)
AES/EBU & S/PDIF STEREO INPUT
TO CONTROL ROOM
SELECT
DELAY DIG. TRIM PHASE HI PASS
KEY INPUT
Default: Itself (t e c annel)
OR:
CHANNEL TAP
BUS TAP
AUX TAP
2-TRACK DIGITAL INPUT
PRE-DSP
INSERT
(CHANNEL TAP
AND PLUG-INS)
COMP
EQ
GATE
FADER
MUTE
PRE/
POST
AUX 1–8
AUX
PAN
AUX
PAN
AUX
LEVEL
AUX
LEVEL
AUX
LEVEL
AUX
LEVEL
DIRECT ASSIGN
TO TAPE OUT
PFL SOLO
PAN
METER
A to D
POST-DSP
INSERT
(PLUG-INS
ONLY)
CHANNEL
TAP
“Mackie
Digital 8•Bus
Block Diagram
4 / 12 / 2001”
Figure 1-6 D8B Block Diagram
This diagram provides a detailed view of the D8B signal path.

D8B Manual • Chapter 1 • page 15
TAPE 1–8
TAPE 9–16
TAPE 17–24
PFL SOLO
SOLO L
SOLO R
MAIN LEFT
MAIN RIGHT
BUSES 1–8
AUX SEND 1–8
AUX SEND 9
AUX SEND 10
AUX SEND 11
AUX SEND 12
TAPE 1–8
TAPE 9–16
TAPE 17–24
PFL SOLO
SOLO L
SOLO R
MAIN LEFT
MAIN RIGHT
BUSES 1–8
AUX SEND 1–8
AUX SEND 9
AUX SEND 10
AUX SEND 11
AUX SEND 12
AUX 9/10
AUX 11/12
MAIN INSERT R (L)
BUS
TAP
AUX
TAP
( )
( )
(R)
/
MUTE
ASSIGN
D / A
D / A
FX CARDS
TO FX METER SELECT
AUX 1 – AUX 8
ALT I/0
TAPE 17–24
TAPE 1–8
BUS 1–8
MAIN
SPKR LEFT
(R)
NEARFIELD
SPKR LEFT
(R)
STUDIO OUT LEF
T
(R)
MAIN OUT LEFT
(R)
MAIN OUT LEFT
(R)
S/PDIF
DIGITAL OUT LEF
T
(R)
AES / EBU
DIGITAL OUT LEF
T
(R)
AUX 11/12
AUX 9/10
PHNS 2 LEFT
PHNS 1 LEFT
TAPE 9–16
AUX SOLO 1 (of 8)
AUX 1 (of 8)
MASTER
LEVEL
D / A
2 TRK C
2 TRK B
2 TRK A
MASTER L-R
DIG IN 2
DIG IN 1
CONTROL ROOM SELECT
A B
C
LEVEL
MAIN
NEARFIELD
LEVEL
DIM
LEVEL
DIMMETERS
SOLO
CONTROL
MONO (R)
LEFT
MASTER
FADER
PHONES SELECT
TO SOLO BUS
TALKBACK
SOLO
LEVEL
AUX SOLO 9 (10)
AUX 9/10 MASTER
AUX SOLO 11 (12)
AUX 11/12 MASTER
TB LEVEL
FROM
S/PDIF IN
FROM
AES/EBU IN
2 TRK IN
BUS SOLO
BUS LEVEL
LEVEL TO TAPE
SOLO PFL/AFL/MIXDOWN
MIXDOWN
MIXDOWN SOLO SENDS
ONLY SOLOED CHANNELS
TO MAIN L/R BUS
PFL
AFL
CTRL RM
9/10 11/12
CTRL RM
9/10 11/12
PH 2
PH 1
TALKBACK TO STUDIO
PH 1 LEVEL
PH 2 LEVEL
D8B OUTPUT SECTION
X2 LEFT AND (RIGHT)
D / A D / A D / A D / A D / A D / A
D / A D / A
LEVEL TO TAPE LEVEL TO TAPE

D8B Manual • Chapter 1 • page 16
mic in
1-12
+22 dBu max input 20 dB loss
40 dB gain
0
20 dB loss
20 dB gain
0
60 dB gain
line in
1-12
+2 dBu max input
+22 dBu max input
line in 13 - 24
Inputs 25-48, Returns 1-8, 2 Trk A-C
0
level up +10 dB
0
+22 dBu max input
level up +20 dB gain up +15 dB
gain dn –15 dB
level up +10 dB
pan cntr –3 dB
fat DSP
digital trim compressor 4 band EQ channel fader pan
0
level up +10 dB
ch aux level mix
00 0
+22 dBu max out
Aux send
00
level up +10 dB
0
+22 dBu max out
Bus 1-8
Studio Out
Phones 1&2
st. aux pan cntr -3 dB
00
level up +10
0
TRS +22 dBu max out
Main L-R XLR +28 dBu max out
0
+22 dBu max out
Control Room
Max Level @ Unity gain
0
Mackie Effects
gain up +12 dB
EQ
gain dn –12 dB
Mackie Designs
Digital 8•Bus
Gain Structure Diagram
5/15/01
Figure 1-7 D8B Gain Structure Diagram

D8B Manual • Chapter 1 • page 17
Specifications
Meters:
• LED ladders displaying 24 channels, 24 LEDs per
channel from –50 to 0 dBFS (0 dBFS = +20 dBu)
Frequency Response:
• 20Hz-20kHz +/-0.5 dB
Crosstalk (@ 1kHz)
• Adjacent channels: –90 dBu
• Aux sends feed through: –90 dBu
• Main outputs: –90 dBu
Equalizer
• Gain Range: ±15 dB
• Frequency range: 20Hz-20kHz
split into 4 bands
• Q: 1/12 to 3 octave
Compressor
• Threshold: –60 to –1 dB
• Attack: 0.3 ms to 2.6 sec
• Release: 80 ms to 2.6 sec
• Ratio: 1:1 to 20:1
• Output: 0.0 dB to 20 dB
ate
• Threshold: –60 to –1 dB
• Attack: 0.1 ms to 0.6 sec
• Release: 80 ms to 2.6 sec
• Range: 0 dB to 100 dB
Digital Specs
• Converters:
24-bit, 115 dB Signal-to-Noise-Ratio (EIAJ),
106 dB Dynamic Range, 128X oversampling
• DSP:
32 bit (>190 dB dynamic range)
• CPU:
300 MHz Celeron
(166 MHz Pentium in earlier versions)
File Storage:
• Floppy drive, internal hard drive or 10-base-T
Ethernet network
Dither:
• Apogee UV22 16-bit Super CD Encoding onboard
Analog Input/Output Section
• Output Level (0 dBu = 0.775V RMS)
• Left and Right Outputs:
+22 dBu balanced 1/4" TRS
+28 dBu balanced XLR
• Bus (Tape) out:
+22 dBu balanced 1/4" TRS
• Aux sends:
+22 dBu balanced 1/4" TRS
• Inserts:
+22 dBu unbalanced 1/4" TRS
Channel Section (mic/line)
• Line input: balanced 1/4" TRS input
• Mic Input: balanced XLR input
• Preamp dynamic range:
114 dB max.
• E.I.N.: –129.5 dBu, 150 ohm source
–131.2 dBV, 150 ohm source
• CMRR: –83 dBu @1kHz
• Distortion: 0.005% @ 1kHz
+14 dBu output level
(20Hz-20kHz filter)
• Mic gain range: Unity to +60 dB
• Line In gain range: –20 dB to +40 dB
(channels 1-12)
–20 dB to +20 dB
(channels 13-24)
• Input max. level: +4 dBu nominal
+22 dBu clipping
• Aux send gain range: off to +10 dB
• Bus out gain range: off to +10 dB
• Threshold: –60 to –1 dB
• Ch. fader gain range: –100 to +10 dB
Physical Dimensions
• Console:
8.7" x 37.6" x 27.1" (221mm x 955mm x 688mm)
• Remote CPU:
5.25"x 19.0”x 20.0"(133mm x483mm x508mm)
Weight
• Console:
73 lbs. (33.1kg)
• Remote CPU:
50 lbs. (22.7kg)
Note: All specifications subject to change without
notice.

D8B Manual • Chapter 1 • page 18
Physical Dimensions
37.6" (955mm)
8.7"
(221mm)
27.1" (688mm)
D8B
CONSOLE
SHIPPING
WEIGHT
73 lbs.
(33.1 kg)
D8B CPU
SHIPPING
WEIGHT
50 lbs.
(22.7 kg)
19.00" (48.3cm)
CPU
17.25" (43.8cm)
5.25"
(13.3cm)
3U
20" (50.8cm)

D8B Manual • Chapter 1 • page 19
13. Remove the 2nd floppy disk when prompted and
power down the console power supply, then
power back on.
14. You now have the updated D8B operating
system installed.
15. Make sure you read the release notes. They
have important info about this upgrade.
Note: Repeat the above procedure with the
Demo_Plugins_3xxx_PC.zip file to install the
plug-in update. After updating the plug-ins
software on the D8B, you must perform the “Erase
UFX Memory” and “Upgrade UFX Cards”
procedures (under Windows in the upper menu
bar) to upgrade the UFX cards that are installed in
the D8B (see page 86).
Macintosh Computers
Follow these steps if you are downloading
onto a Mac OS®computer:
1. Download the self-extracting file
d8b3xxxx_Mac.sea for the operating system
installation, and the D8B Plug-in Demo Kit
(Demo_Plugins_3xxx_Mac.sea) for the plug-ins
installation.
2. We recommend that you update the operating
system first. Double-click on the
Demo_Plugins_3xxxx_Mac.sea file to extract
the two disk images.
3. Launch Apple's DiskCopy utility (you may need
to download the DiskCopy utility from http://
www.apple.com or check the system
installations disks that came with your system).
4. Depending on your version of DiskCopy, either
click the "Load Image File..." button or choose
"Make a Floppy" from the Utilities menu.
5. Locate the image file labeled d8b3xxxx Install
1.img that was extracted onto your hard drive.
6. DiskCopy will prompt you (depending on your
version of DiskCopy) to insert a floppy disk into
the floppy disk drive. With older versions of Disk
Copy, you may need to click the "Make a copy"
button first.
7. Once the disk has been ejected from the
computer, be sure to label your disk so you know
which is #1 and which is #2. Then follow steps 4
through 6 to create the second installation disk
from the second disk image file (d8b3xxxx
Install 2.img).
8. With the D8B console power supply turned off,
insert installation disk #1 into the floppy disk
drive.
9. Power on the console power supply.
10. Follow the instructions on the D8B control
surface. (Note: The installer no longer uses the
VGA screen; typical boot is about 30 seconds.)
11. Place the 2nd floppy disk in the drive when
prompted by the installation software.
Updating Software
Software upgrades can easily be downloaded
from the Mackie website at www.mackie.com.
Find the D8B section and select “Downloads.”
Always read the Release notes that accompany the
software downloads. They contain valuable infor-
mation specific to the current software revisions
and install procedures.
Windows-based Computers
Follow these steps if you are downloading
onto a Windows®-based computer:
1. Download the .ZIP files d8b3xxxx_PC.zip for
the operating system installation, and the D8B
Plug-in Demo Kit (Demo_Plugins_3xxx_PC.zip)
for the plug-ins installation.
2. We recommend that you update the operating
system first. Double-click on the d8b3xxxx_PC.zip
file. This will launch the WinZip™ self-
extraction utility.
3. The default "Unzip To" directory is set to C:\. If
you prefer to have the files extracted to a
different location, type the path into the provided
text box and then press the Unzip button. Quit
the WinZip™ self-extraction utility.
4. Locate the two extracted files, labeled
d8b3xxxx Install 1.exe and d8b3xxxx Install
2.exe, on your hard drive.
5. Double-click on the first file, d8b3xxxx Install
1.exe, and you'll see a "WinImage™ Self
Extractor" dialog box.
6. Ensure that the "Writing On Floppy" check box
is selected, then click the "OK" button in the
upper right corner of the dialog box.
7. When the "Batch Assistant" dialog box appears,
insert a double-sided, high-density 1.44MB
floppy disk into drive A:\ and then click the
"OK" button.
8. When the Winimage™ utility has completed
writing to the first disk, be sure to label your
disks so you know which is #1 and which is #2.
Additionally, be sure not to leave either disk in
your floppy drive. Rebooting your PC with the
disk in the drive can create problems with your
PC. Repeat steps 5 through 7 for the second
disk image file.
9. With the D8B console power supply turned off,
insert installation disk #1 into the floppy disk
drive.
10. Power on the console power supply.
11. Follow the instructions on the D8B control
surface. (Note: The installer no longer uses the
VGA screen; typical boot is about 30 seconds.)
12. Place the 2nd floppy disk in the drive when
prompted by the installation software.

D8B Manual • Chapter 1 • page 20
12. Remove the 2nd floppy disk when prompted and
power down the console power supply, then
power back on.
13. You now have the updated D8B operating
system installed.
14. Make sure you read the release notes. They
have important info about this upgrade.
Note: Repeat the above procedure with the
Demo_Plugins_3xxx_Mac.sea file to install the
plug-in update. After updating the plug-ins
software on the D8B, you must perform the “Erase
UFX Memory” and “Upgrade UFX Cards”
procedures (under Windows in the upper menu
bar) to upgrade the UFX cards that are installed in
the D8B.
Note to Macintosh USB Floppy drive users:
Apple's Disk Copy program will not work
using the above method with a USB floppy drive
because the menu option "Make a Floppy..." will
not be available. You must use Aladdin Systems'
ShrinkWrap program available for purchase and
trial download from http://www.aladdinsys.com/
shrinkwrap/index.html. Once you have
ShrinkWrap installed, substitute these steps for
steps 3-6 in the above directions.
3. Launch ShrinkWrap.
4. Select "Write Image back to Disk..." from the
Image menu (command-B).
5. Locate the image file labeled d8b3xxxx Install
1.img that was extracted onto your hard drive.
6. ShrinkWrap will prompt you to insert a floppy
disk into the floppy disk drive.
Summary
This chapter has been specifically designed to
help you understand the basic concept of the Digital
8•Bus architecture. The following two chapters
describe the physical surface controls and the
software features and capabilities. The last chapter
describes specific applications as they pertain to
unique recording tasks and needs.
Chapters 2 and 3 support what you’ll encounter
in Chapter 4. Feel free to jump ahead, but keep in
mind that you’ll probably need to use these second
two chapters as a reference for the terms and
controls that are new to you.