miniDSP Flex DL User manual

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Table of Contents
miniDSPFlex (with DiracLive)
Product Overview
The Flex family
DiracLive room correction
Typical applications
Software Installation
System requirements
Windows
macOS
Download the miniDSP software
Install the miniDSP software
Install on macOS
Install on Windows
Download and install DiracLive
The miniDSP Device Console
Finding connected devices
Connecting to a device
Using template devices
Settings
Using Dirac Live
Input sources
Using presets
Selecting a preset
Renaming
Importing and exporting
Resetting
Firmware updates
Convert to Flex
Basic Operation
Front and rear panels
Basic operation
Rear panel connnections
All versions
miniDSP Flex

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Flex/Balanced
Flex/Digital
Playing Audio
Connecting sources
Connecting an amplier and speakers
Bluetooth audio
About USB Audio
macOS
Windows 11
ASIO
Remote control
Using the miniDSP remote
Using a third-party programmable remote
Programming a Logitech Harmony remote
Android/iOS control app
Signal Flow
Signal ow
Input Channels
Channel label
Current RMS level, Level meter
DiracLive delay
DiracLive gain
Signal routing
Overview
Basic routing
Mixing
Routing examples
Subwoofer integration
Two-way active speaker
Output Channels
Channel label
Signal routing
PEQ
CROSSOVER
Time delay
Gain adjustment
Invert
Mute

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Current RMS level, level meter
DSP Reference
Parametric EQ
Overview
Editing lters
Disabling individual lters
Filter mode
Basic mode
Frequency
Gain
Q
Filter type
Jumping between channels
Linking channels
Reset to default
Advanced mode
Programming a single biquad
Loading a biquad le
Biquad design software
Crossover
Overview
Crossover mode
Basic mode
Enable
Cut-off frequency
Filter type
Jumping between channels
Linking channels
Hiding channels
Advanced mode
Setting biquads for the crossover block
Biquad design software
Compressor
Overview
Enable
Jumping between channels
Dirac Live

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Dirac Live
Dirac Live overview
Connections for Dirac Live calibration
Loudspeaker and microphone positioning
Before you proceed
Download your microphone calibration les
Check your preset
Windows
UMIK-1 plugged in
Check that UMIK-1 is set as the default recording device
DiracLive has access to the microphone
macOS users
Enable le sharing for device discovery
UMIK-1 plugged in
Grant microphone access
First steps
Starting the DiracLive application
Dirac account login or creation
Select device
Features of the Dirac Live UI
Sidebar
Loaded lters
Tab selection menu
Main display area
Main menu
Notications
Help overlay
Navigation buttons
Saving and loading projects
Congure Dirac Live for measurement
Select Recording Device
Volume Calibration
Select Arrangement
Tightly focused imaging
Focused imaging
Wide imaging
Take your measurements
Run the rst measurement
Completing the measurements

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Viewing and redoing measurements
Filter design
The Filter Design screen
Frequency response display
Adjusting the target curve
Range curtains
Groups
Zooming in on the graph
Display controls
Editing with control points
Snapshots
Reset to default
Saving and loading individual target curves
Guidelines for target curve design
Low-frequency extension and boost
High-frequency "tilt"
Low-frequency adjustment
Magnitude response dips
The Impulse response graph
Example impulse response
Impulse response controls
Exporting lters
Export a lter
Replace a lter
Delete a lter
Switch between lters
Check your device volume
Additional Information
Migrating to DC
1. Check that you have the latest version of Device Console
2. (Windows only) Check that you have the latest USB driver
3. Update DSP Firmware
4. Download the Migration Pack
5. Upgrade the rmware in your Flex
6. Migrate your conguration presets
Troubleshooting and support
Solving connectivity issues
No Internet connection

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The miniDSP processor is not detected
Trouble-shooting audio issues
No sound during volume calibration
No sound during playback
Strange soundstage
Distortion
Obtaining support

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miniDSPFlex (with DiracLive)
Product Overview
The miniDSPFlex(DL) is a stereo-input, four-channel output compact high-resolution audio processor. It features
stereo analog inputs, two digital inputs, USB audio, Bluetooth streaming with LDAC™ and aptX™ HD codecs and
automatic Bluetooth input selection, and an OLED front panel with physical volume control.
Stereo (two-channel) Dirac Live provides world-class room correction, while a full suite of miniDSP’s powerful audio
processing tools and exible I/O routing support applications such as subwoofer integration and active speakers.
The miniDSPFlex(DL) implements stereo DiracLive correction. That is, there are two channels of Dirac Live correction.
After stereo DiracLive correction, the audio signal is routed to the four output channels for processing such as
parametric EQ and crossovers.
The Flex family
There are several versions of the 2-in 4-out miniDSP Flex with different I/O congurations. Refer to the Flex product
page (https://www.minidsp.com/products/minidsp-in-a-box/ex) for the complete list.
Info

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I O
2
1
2
1
4
3
SPDIF
TOSLINK
D
A 
C
USB
RESET
GND
DC 12V
PWR
INPUTS OUTPUTS
2
1
2
1
4
3
SPDIF
TOSLINK
D
A 
C
USB
RESET
GND
DC 12V
PWR
SPDIF
TOSLINK
D
A 
C
USB
RESET
GND
DC 12V
PWR
SPDIF
TOSLINK
OUT 34OUT 12
SPDIF
TOSLINK
OUTPUTS
INPUTS
2
1
Flex
Our standard model with stereo analog input
and four channels of analog output, all on RCA
connectors. The perfect tiny digital/analog
preamp and room correction device.
Flex/Balanced
For those with balanced equipment whether
audiophile, studio, or on-the-go professional
sound use. TRS jacks keep the compact profile
and are easy to adapt.
Flex/Digital
For specialized needs including driving active
speakers with digital input, use with separate
DACs, or to capture an analog source into a
digital system.
SPDIF
TOSLINK
USB Audio
Bluetooth Audio
Common Inputs
DiracLive room correction
The miniDSPFlex (with DiracLive) executes stereo (two-channel) DiracLive® digital room correction, from Dirac
Research (https://www.dirac.com/) . DiracLive's mixed-phase ltering technology will improve the imaging of your
system, minimize the effects of room modes and resonances, and improve dynamics and clarity.
To accomplish this, the DiracLive software steps you through the procedure for taking measurements around your
listening area. It employs a sophisticated analysis algorithm to make the optimal correction across the whole listening
area, not just at a single point. You have full control over the target frequency response. Measurements are taken with
the miniDSP UMIK-1 or UMIK-2 calibrated acoustic measurement microphone.

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In addition to correcting magnitude response, DiracLive® corrects the system's impulse response, which reects how
the system responds to a sharp transient such as a drumbeat. Reections, diffraction, resonances, misaligned drivers,
and so on, all combine to smear out the transient. Impulse response correction is a critical factor for accurate sound-
staging, clarity and bass reproduction.
Typical applications
The miniDSPFlex(DL) has a wide range of applications in home and professional audio. This section illustrates a few
of them.
Figure 1 shows the miniDSPFlex(DL) used as a digital preamp with subwoofer integration and stereo (two-channel)
DiracLive room correction. The Flex provides accurate and exible integration between the subwoofers and the main
speakers as well as comprehensive EQ and tuning options. This is a very cost-effective way to build a complete audio
system that includes all the benets of modern DSP technology.

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Analog
3.0dB
Preset 3
Phono preamp
Power amplifier
Powered
subwoofer
Loudspeakers
Computer
USB audio
Digital sources
Turntable
miniDSP
Flex
Figure 1. miniDSPFlex(DL) as preamp with subwoofer integration and stereo
(two-channel) DiracLive room correction
Figure 2 illustrates a similar use of the miniDSPFlex(DL) as a digital preamp, but the output channels have instead
been congured to act as crossover for a pair of active 2-way speakers. Amplication can be via a multichannel power
amplier as shown, or a pair of stereo ampliers.

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Analog
3.0dB
Preset 3
Phono preamp
Multichannel
power amplifier
Left speaker
Computer
USB audio
Digital sources
Turntable
miniDSP
Flex
Right speaker
Figure 2. miniDSPFlex(DL) as preamp and active crossover and stereo (two-
channel) DiracLive room correction

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Software Installation
The miniDSPFlex(DL) is congured with software running on a PC or Mac.
System requirements
Windows
Windows 10 or later, with all updates installed
At least a dual core i3, i5, or i7 processor, or AMD equivalent
At least 4 GB RAM
Two free USB 2.0 ports
Internet connection
macOS
macOS 10.14 Mojave or later, latest version with all updates
At least a dual core i3, i5, or i7 processor, or an Apple ARM processor (M1/M2/Pro/Max)
At least 4 GB RAM
Two free USB 2.0 ports
Internet connection
Intel and Apple ARM processors are supported with separate binaries for miniDSP Device Console.
The macOS version requirement ensures compatibility with the Dirac Live application. The miniDSP Device Console can
run on OS X 10.11 (El Capitan), macOS 10.12 (Sierra) and later versions of macOS.
Download the miniDSP software
If you purchased your Flex directly from miniDSP, your software will be available from the User Downloads
(https://www.minidsp.com/userdownloads) section of the miniDSP website when your order ships. To access the
download, you will need to be logged into the website with the account you created when purchasing.
If you purchased your Flex from a miniDSP dealer, you will receive a coupon together with the product. Redeem this
coupon at this page:
Info
Info

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Redeem your miniDSP software (https://www.minidsp.com/support/redeem-coupon)
The User Downloads link is visible from the drop-down menu at the top right of the website:
Navigate to the miniDSP Device Console section and select the download according to your platform: Windows,
macOS with Intel CPU, or macOS with Apple ARM CPU.
Install the miniDSP software
Install on macOS
1. Double-click on the downloaded miniDSP Device Console-x.y.z.dmg image le to open it. (The version number
x.y.z embedded in the le name will change over time.)
2. Drag the miniDSP Device Console application icon to your Applications folder.
3. To run the miniDSPDeviceConsole, locate it in the Applications folder and double-click on it. To make it easier to
run in future, right-click on its dock icon and select Options -> Keep in Dock.
The macOS version of miniDSP Device Console is installed for all users on the computer.
Install on Windows
Info

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1. Double-click on the downloaded MiniDSP Device Console Setup x.y.z.exe installer to run it. (The version number
x.y.z embedded in the le name will change over time.)
2. Install the miniDSP UAC2 USB Audio driver:
a. Start miniDSPDeviceConsole.
b. Navigate to the Settings screen and select Check USB Audio Driver:
Settings
Network Device Discovery
Timeout 40 seconds
Software Update
Check Interval 24 Enable
Last checked: No updates available at 15:49:29 GMT+1000 (Hong Kong Time) on Fri Aug 19 2022
Color Mode
Modes Light Dark System
Support
Check USB Audio Driver
Main M e nu
Create Program Snapshot
Hours
Discover Devices
Template Devices
Settings
About
Version History
CHECK NOW
If the UAC2 driver is not installed, DeviceConsole will offer to install it. If you have previously installed the
miniDSP UAC2 driver but it is not up to date, DeviceConsole will offer to install the latest version. In either
case, click PROCEED.
UAC-2 does not seem to be installed.. Install UAC2 Driver?
UAC-2 Driver
PROCEED NO
Note: we recommend that you accept the default installation location.
The rst time you run the miniDSPDeviceConsole and the DiracLive application, you may see a Windows Firewall
warning such as the one below. Ensure that "Private networks..." is checked and "Public networks..." is not checked.
Then click on "Allow access." This warning dialog may appear more than once.

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The most recent miniDSP processors require the UAC2 driver to be at least version 5.40. If you have diculty with the
UAC2 driver or control panel, use Check USB Audio Driver to make sure that you have the latest version.
The Windows installation of miniDSPDeviceConsole is for a single user. If it needs to be run in more than one account
on your PC, it will need to be installed for each account.
Download and install DiracLive
Download the DiracLive application for your platform from Dirac Research (https://www.dirac.com/live/downloads/) .
On macOS, double-click on the diraclive-latest.zip download if your browser did not unzip it.
Double-click on the downloaded installer to run it. It will be named diraclive-latest.exe on Windows and DiracLive
v3.x.y Setup Darwin on macOS (the version number x.y will change as updates are issued). We strongly recommend
that you accept the default installation settings.
Do not run the application from the installer, as it must be started with the Start Calibration button in DeviceConsole.
Info
Info

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The miniDSP Device Console
The miniDSPDeviceConsole ("DC") is the new conguration and control software for miniDSP audio processors. It
replaces the earlier "plugin" control software. In contrast to the earlier software, DeviceConsole provides:
A single software program to control all miniDSP processors
Over-the-air (OTA) self-updates
Detection and installation of rmware upgrades for your processor
Purchase and activation of Dirac Live upgrades (where applicable)
If you have not used DeviceConsole with your Flex before, you will need to perform a one-time migration procedure.
See Migrating to DC.
Finding connected devices
The Discover Devices screen displays devices connected to your computer, or which have a network-accessible
control interface.
Main M enu Choose your device:
Devices plugged into your network / USB are shown below.
Flex Eight
Serial#: 900001
USB
VID: 10066 PID: 18
SHD
Serial#: 902607
USB
VID: 10066 PID: 69
Discover Devices
Template Devices
Settings
About
Version History
For network control, the miniDSPFlex(DL) requires that a miniDSP Wi-DG be connected to its USB port. Note that
network control is for miniDSP Device Console only – Dirac Live calibration can not be performed over the network.
If your device is connected to a Wi-DG but is not visible here, conrm that you have updated the rmware on your Wi-DG
to the latest version.
Connecting to a device
Info
Tip

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To connect to a device for editing and control, click on its name. While the device is connected, the Device Console
displays three main areas:
The global control area has items that are not specic settings of the processor for the current preset. These items
are described on this page.
The input channels area displays a control strip for each input channel. See Input channels.
The output channels area displays the routing from input to output channels, and a control strip for each output
channel. See Signal routing and Output channels.
miniDSP Flex Eight
Flex (DL)
Master Volume
Connection
DISCONNECT
-41.5 dB
Input Source
Presets
1 2 34
Firmware
Display Versions
Refresh DSP Firmware
Refresh XMOS Firmware
Model Conversion
Convert To Flex
TOSLINK
RENAME IMPORT EXPORT RESET RESET-ALL
DIRAC ON
Dirac Live®
START CALIBRATION
Global control Input channels Output channels
Output 1 Output 2 Output 3 Output 4
PEQ
CROSSOVER
PEQ
CROSSOVER
PEQ
CROSSOVER
PEQ
CROSSOVER
-18.9
Delay (ms)
0
Gain (dB)
INVERT
MUTE
COMPRESSOR
RMS-Meter (dBFS) RMS-Meter
Delay (ms)
0
Gain (dB)
INVERT
MUTE
COMPRESSOR
(dBFS) RMS-Meter
Delay (ms)
0
Gain (dB)
INVERT
MUTE
COMPRESSOR
(dBFS) RMS-Meter
Delay (ms)
0
Gain (dB)
0 0 0 0
INVERT
MUTE
COMPRESSOR
(dBFS)
-42.9-3.5
-32.4
Dirac 2
Dirac
Delay: 0.39 ms
Gain: 0 dB
-43.1
RMS-Meter (dBFS)
Dirac 1
Dirac
Delay: 0.00 ms
Gain: -1.3 dB
-14.0
RMS-Meter (dBFS) INPUT 1
0DB
INPUT 1
0DB
INPUT 1
0DB
INPUT 1
0DB
0DB
INPUT 2
0DB
INPUT 2
0DB
INPUT 2
0DB
INPUT 2
If this is the rst time you have used DeviceConsole with your miniDSPFlex(DL), DeviceConsole will check for an
existing preset that was created with the older DDRC-24 "plugin" user interface. If found, DeviceConsole will
automatically import it. This is done on a preset-by-preset basis.
When you are done, click DISCONNECT.
Once you have switched to miniDSPDeviceConsole, don't use the older DDRC-24 "plugin" user interface to connect to the
miniDSPFlex(DL) any more.
Tip

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Using template devices
The Template Devices screen displays the complete list of devices supported by Device Console. This can be used to
explore features of a processor that you do not have, or to edit your processor settings when you are not able to
connect to it.
A template device "mirrors" the real device, so that you can edit your settings while not connected. That is, while you
are editing the real device, the current preset is copied to the corresponding template device whenever you change
presets and when you disconnect. You can then edit those settings in the template device.
To edit a template device, click on it.
Tem pla te Devices
DDRC-24
Flex
Flex (DL)
Flex Eight
Flex Eight (DL)
SHD
Main Menu
Discover Devices
Template Devices
Settings
About
Version History
When you are done editing in the template device, click FINISH.
When you connect to your real device again, DeviceConsole detects that you have edited the template and asks you if
you want to use the settings from the edited template. Or, you can discard the changes you made in the template and
revert to the settings that your device had the last time you were connected to it. This is done on a preset-by-preset
basis:

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Settings have changed
Different settings have been found for Flex (DL). Would you like to:
Possible reasons:
* The settings for Preset-1 in the template device has been changed since last time this
FLex (DL) was connected.
Apply the changes from Preset-1 in the template to the Flex (DL)
Continue and use current setting.
(Last Modified: 8/29/2022, 3:46:22 PM)
(Last Modified: 8/29/2022, 1:22:17 PM)
Initialize to default Settings
Disconnect
You will see a similar dialog if you edit the settings of your device using a different computer or the older "plugin" user
interface (the latter is not recommended once you have migrated to the miniDSPDeviceConsole).
If you have more than one device of the same type, only one of them can be edited using the template device. If you have
more than one device of the same type or need to edit your devices from more than one computer, you will need to
manage your presets by exporting them to and importing them from les. See Importing and Exporting.
Settings
These settings are for Device Console itself (and not any connected processor).
Info
Info

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Settings
Network Device Discovery
Timeout 40 seconds
Software Update
Check Interval 24 Enable
Last checked: No updates available at 15:49:29 GMT+1000 (Hong Kong Time) on Fri Aug 19 2022
Color Mode
Modes Light Dark System
Support
Check USB Audio Driver
Main M e nu
Create Program Snapshot
Hours
Discover Devices
Template Devices
Settings
About
Version History
CHECK NOW
The Modes selection sets the DC to display with a light theme, a dark theme, or with the same theme as your operating
system (Windows or macOS). If you choose the System option, you may need to quit DeviceConsole and restart it for
the change to take effect.
The Check USB Audio Driver feature checks if you have the miniDSP UAC2 audio driver installed, and that it is the
latest version. It appears on Windows only. See Installation for more information.
The Create Program Snapshot feature is used to help miniDSP support diagnose issues you may be having with your
unit. See Obtaining Support.
Using Dirac Live
The miniDSPFlex(DL) implements stereo DiracLive correction. That is, there are two channels of Dirac Live correction.
After stereo DiracLive correction, the audio signal is routed to the four output channels for processing such as
parametric EQ and crossovers.
To start Dirac Live calibration, click on the START CALIBRATION button. The Device Console will disconnect and the
Dirac Live application will start.
DIRAC ON
Dirac Live®
START CALIBRATION
Info