Fast Track Ultra

User Guide

Introduction

Thanks for choosing M-Audio Fast Track Ultra. Fast Track Ultra has been designed to give you a professional, portable audio and MIDI interface for your Windows or Macintosh laptop or desktop computer. Using the convenience and dependability of the industry-standard USB 2.0 bus, Fast Track Ultra provides your computer with an exceptionally exible audio interface, offering unequalled routing power and versatility while delivering high-resolution, 24-bit audio to and from your computer at sampling rates up to 96kHz, and its on-board DSP gives you a useful selection of reverb and delay effects and versatile monitoring options. Fast Track Ultra also gives you sixteen channels of MIDI in and out all in a sleek, rugged, lightweight and highly portable design. It connects to your computer with a single USB cable no tools needed, no cards to install. Fast Track Ultra was created with the home or portable studio user in mind. With two high-quality microphone/instrument preamps and two more studio-grade microphone preamps, Fast Track Ultra gives you a great sounding, easy-to-use interface for your digital audio software. The convenient front panel combo XLR/TS inputs can accommodate microphone or instrument levels, with switchable phantom power and individual 20dB pads. The rear panel offers you insert points for inputs one and two, six balanced TRS analog inputs and six balanced TRS analog outputs, as well as dedicated S/PDIF inputs and outputs, for a total of eight inputs and eight outputs. The front panel is also set up for easy monitoring, and features two headphone outputs with independent level controls, input signal and clipping indicators, MIDI input and output LEDs, and phantom power indicators, making Fast Track Ultra an ideal solution for beginning and advanced computer recording users. Even if youre an experienced musician and digital recording enthusiast, please take some time to read through this User Guide and familiarize yourself with the features and operation of Fast Track Ultra. You may also want to refer to your audio softwares documentation to better understand how Fast Track Ultra may be integrated with the program. Your experience and enjoyment of your Fast Track Ultra will be greatly enhanced by a good working knowledge of your audio software.

Whats in the Box

Fast Track Ultra
Your Fast Track Ultra package contains the following:
Printed Quick Start Guide Ableton Live Lite CD USB Cable
M-Audio Fast Track Ultra CD, including drivers and this User Guide

5VDC 2000mA power supply

Fast Track Ultra Features
Two front-panel balanced/unbalanced Mic/Instrument Inputs on combo XLR/TS jacks Two front-panel balanced Mic inputs on XLR jacks Four Mic/Line input switches
Four high-quality microphone preamps, based on M-Audios acclaimed Octane technology Six balanced/unbalanced line inputs on TRS jacks Two inserts on TRS jacks Six balanced/unbalanced line outputs on TRS jacks Phantom Power switch with front-panel indicator LED Stereo S/PDIF digital I/O on coaxial jacks Two stereo headphone jacks with individual level controls Two-color front-panel Signal/Clip indicators

MIDI Input and Output with front-panel MIDI I/O indicators Supports sample rates up to 96kHz, with full 24-bit resolution Four mic pre input level controls with 20dB pads Output Level control for outputs 1/2 Power LED Side-panel Kensington lock port Onboard DSP effects
Flexible routing with 16x8 internal mixer Driver support for WDM/MME, ASIO2 (Windows XP, Windows Vista (32-bit editions))
and CoreAudio (MacOS X (v10.3.9 / 10.4.10 or later)
IMPORTANT NOTE: Fast Track Ultra has been designed as a USB 2.0 device. It
may be used with a USB 1.1 port, but will then only function as a 2-in/2-out device with sample rates limited to 44.1 and 48 kHz. This is due to the limitations of the USB 1.1 bus bandwidth.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Fast Track Ultra can be powered via the included AC power
supply or via bus power from the host computer. However, when running on bus power, Fast Track Ultra will be limited to four inputs and four outputs. These are mapped to inputs 1/2, outputs 1/2, and the S/PDIF I/O.
Minimum System Requirements

Windows

Fast Track Ultra is supported under Windows XP with Service Pack 2 or later, or Windows Vista (32-bit editions). It is not supported under Windows 2000, Windows 98, 98SE or Windows ME. Visit the Windows update web pages to make certain you have the most current updates and xes supplied by Microsoft. Minimum System Requirements* Windows XP with SP2 1.6 GHz CPU (CPU requirements may be higher for laptops) DirectX 9.0c USB 2.0 port 512 MB RAM Windows Vista (32-bit editions) 1.6 GHz CPU (CPU requirements may be higher for laptops) USB 2.0 port 1 GB RAM
Fast Track Ultra is supported by PowerPC-based Macs running Mac OS X version 10.3.9 or 10.4.10, and by Intelbased Macs running Mac OS X version 10.4.10 or later. Minimum System Requirements* PowerPC Mac OS X 10.3.9 / 10.4.10 USB 2.0 port 512 MB RAM G4 1GHz CPU** Intel Mac OS X 10.4.10 USB 2.0 port 512 MB RAM Intel CPU
* M-Audio suggests that you also check the minimum system requirements for your software, as they may be greater than the above. ** G4 accelerator cards not supported

IMPORTANT NOTE: Fast Track Ultra has been designed as a USB 2.0 device.
It may be used with a USB 1.1 port, but will only function as a 2-in/2-out device with sample rates limited to 44.1 and 48kHz. This is due to the limitations of the USB 1.1 bus bandwidth. A Note About System Upgrades: Please check the M-Audio driver download page at http://www.m-audio.com/drivers for the availability of an updated driver before you decide to install operating system updates. Before new M-Audio device drivers are released, they are tested for use with the operating system versions that are available at that time. When updates for an operating system are released by Microsoft or Apple, all M-Audio device drivers have to be re-tested and possibly updated to ensure proper operation. M-Audio recommends refraining from installing operating system updates until a driver has been posted to the M-Audio website for that specic operating system.

Controls and Connectors

Front Panel

1. Microphone/Instrument Inputs 1 and 2 (Mic/Inst) These combo connectors provide mic- or instrument-level
inputs for analog channels 1 and 2. Each input will accept a low-impedance mic level signal on a standard three-pin balanced XLR plug, or a high-impedance instrument level signal on an unbalanced 1/4 TS plug.
2. LED Level Meters these dual-color LEDs glow green when an input signal of -20dbfs is present at the
corresponding channel. Reduce the Input Gain level if the LED glows red.
3. Microphone Inputs 3 and 4 (Mic) these XLR connectors provide mic-level inputs for analog channels 3 and 4. 4. Front/Rear (Mic/Line Level) Switches ( Front / Rear) these switches select between the front-panel XLR inputs 1 , 3 and rear-panel line inputs 22 as the source for analog audio channels 1 through 4. 5. Mic/Instrument Gain/Pad 1-4 (Gain) these knobs adjust the mic or instrument level input gain for channels 1
through 4. Pulling the knob out will engage a 20 dB pad on the Mic and Instrument input. Pushing the knob in will disengage the pad.
6. Headphone Output Knobs ( 1 / 2 ) these two knobs control the volume level for the two headphone outputs 11. 7. Power LED (Power) this blue LED lights when the power button 13 has been pressed and power is being

received, either from the USB bus or the external power supply.
8. Phantom Power LED (48V) this red LED lights to indicate that the phantom power switch 14 has been
pressed, applying +48V phantom power to the mic inputs.
9. MIDI Input LED (MIDI In) this green LED lights when MIDI data is present at the MIDI input 19. 10. MIDI Output LED (MIDI Out) this green LED lights when MIDI data is present at the MIDI output 18. 11. Headphone Outputs ( 1 / 2 ) These two 1/4-inch stereo (TRS) jacks are independent of the main audio output level, and are controlled by the headphone output knobs 6. 12. Main Output Knob (Main Output) this knob controls the main output level (outputs 1/2).
Fast Track Ultra Rear Panel
Power Button (Power) Pressing this button will power on Fast Track Ultra, illuminating the front-panel Power LED 7. The unit must be connected to a host computers USB bus, or to the external power supply. Phantom Power Switch (48V Phantom Power) Sliding this switch activates the phantom power circuitry, illuminating the Phantom Power LED 8 and sending 48V power to the four front-panel XLR inputs , for use with condenser microphones requiring external power. Power Input (5V DC) Connect the included 5VDC 2000mA power supply to this jack. NOTE: Due to the limitations of the USB bus, powering Fast Track Ultra via the USB bus will limit its functionality to 4 input/4 output operation using analog inputs and outputs 1/2 and the S/PDIF I/O.
Line Outputs (Outputs) These six balanced 1/4-inch (TRS) jacks provide six analog outputs. The level of outputs 1/2 is controlled by the front-panel main output knob 12. USB Connector (USB 2.0) Connect a standard USB cable to this port, connecting the other end to your host computer. MIDI Output (MIDI Out) Connect to the MIDI input of your controller or other MIDI device. MIDI Input (MIDI In) Connect to the MIDI output of your controller or other MIDI device. S/PDIF Input (S/PDIF In) Digital input on a coaxial (RCA-type) connector. This input will accept a digital input signal at any of the supported sample rates. S/PDIF Output (S/PDIF Out) Digital output on a coaxial (RCA-type) connector. This output will also support pass-through of AC-3 or DTS encoded surround formats. NOTE: When AC-3 or DTS encoded signals are passed through this output, all analog inputs and outputs will be muted.

18. 19. 20.

Line Inputs (Inputs) These six balanced/unbalanced 1/4-inch (TRS) jacks provide six analog inputs for channels 1 through 6. Inputs for channels 1 through 4 are selectable between these inputs and the front-panel combo/XLR inputs via the front/rear switches 4. Inserts (Inserts) These 14 TRS jacks are congured to connect to an analog outboard compressor/limiter or other effect inserting the effect between the preamp and the A/D converter. These inserts are only active when a connector is inserted, and are otherwise bypassed. The TRS jack is congured as follows: Tip=Send; Ring=Return; Sleeve=Ground.

Installing Fast Track Ultra
For instructions on installing Fast Track Ultra, please refer to the accompanying Quick Start Guide.

Hardware Connections

Recording Microphones
Fast Track Ultra can record from up to four microphones simultaneously, connected to inputs 1 through 4 via the two front-panel XLR/TRS inputs 1 and two XLR inputs 3. The front-panel front/rear selector switches 4 must be set to the front position.

Recording Line Inputs

Fast Track Ultra can record up to six individual line inputs simultaneously, connected to inputs 1 through 6 via the rear-panel line inputs 22. The front-panel front/rear selector switches 4 must be set to the rear position. Additionally the gain pots for the associated mic inputs should be turned down when using the line inputs to avoid unwanted noise.

Recording Instruments

Fast Track Ultra can record up to two individual instrument-level sources simultaneously, connected to inputs 1 and 2 via the two front-panel Mic/Inst combo inputs 1. The front-panel front/rear selector switches 4 must be set to front position.

Recording Digital Input

Fast Track Ultra can record two channels of digital input signal via the rear-panel S/PDIF input 20. Connect a digital S/PDIF source to the rear-panel S/PDIF input. Go to the Settings tab in the Fast Track Ultra Control Panel and select external as the clock source to ensure proper digital clocking. See the section about external clock for more information on digital synchronization.
Adjusting the Output Level
Connect the rear-panel line outputs 16 to a mixing console, amplier or powered monitors. Outputs 1 and 2 can be directly controlled by the front-panel main output level knob 12. Other outputs are controlled via your DAW application or the Fast Track Ultra Control Panel.

Headphone Monitoring

The two front-panel headphone outputs 11 are assigned to outputs 1/2 and 3/4, respectively. The exibility of the internal mixer allows you to route any input or DAW return to any output via the Control Panel monitor mixer. You can create identical mixes for both headphone and main outputs, or create a series of individual mixes.

Using Fast Track Ultra

Monitoring
The internal monitor mixer allows you to monitor any combination of sources from its hardware inputs, along with eight channels of audio from your DAW. The Control Panel gives you access to a 16 x 8 channel monitor mixer, allowing you to send any input or DAW return to any output. Four independent monitor mixes can be created for outputs 1/2 through 7/8. Headphone outputs 1 and 2 are tied to line outputs 1/2 and line outputs 3/4, respectively. For more information on using the internal monitor mixer, refer to the section on the Control Panel.

Digital Effects Processing
The internal monitor mixer includes a built-in digital signal processor which allows you to add reverb or delay to your monitor mix. This is useful when overdubbing and setting up monitor mixes. Any input or software return channel can be routed to this internal DSP effects unit via the Control Panel. For more information on using the DSP effects, refer to the section on the Control Panel.
Working with Fast Track Ultra
The following sections address a number of real-life situations that you may encounter while using your Fast Track Ultra. These brief tutorials should help guide you through them. Also check the M-Audio website from time to time for additional tutorials or FAQs.
Setting Up Your Recording Levels
Using the Mic, Line or Instrument Inputs Connect your microphone, instrument or line level source to the front or rear panel Mic/Line/Inst inputs 1 , 3 , 22. Make sure the associated channels front/rear switch is set to the correct position for your chosen inputs, and that the input gain is turned fully counter-clockwise to the lowest level. If you are using a condenser microphone, be certain to activate the Phantom Power switch 14 (after connecting the microphone to the XLR input). Slowly raise the input level until the LED Level Meter shows input with a fairly steady green signal while audibly testing your input levels (i.e., strumming the guitar, or speaking into the mic). If your microphone input signal is too hot (LED Level Meter lights steadily red), pull out the Mic Input Gain knob 5 to activate the 20dB pad and lower the input level. NOTE: When recording with microphones, it is best to keep the mic at some distance from the main speakers, or use headphones to monitor. Feedback may occur when microphones are too close to speakers. Using the Coaxial S/PDIF Input Connect the S/PDIF output of your external audio device to the rear panel S/PDIF Input 20. The signal level that you receive at the S/PDIF In will be the signal level that you record. Any adjustments to that signal level must be made at the source. If you have an output level control on the device that youve connected to the S/PDIF inputs, adjust that output level control to change the recording level. Most recording software will allow you to add gain to a recorded track that was made at a level that is initially too low, but be careful that the recording level is not reaching digital clipping (signal going into the red) while recording. You will also want to congure the sync source to external. Refer to the section below on the Control Panel and your softwares documentation for more information.

Fast Track Ultra Setting the Sample Rate
The default sample rate for Fast Track Ultra is 44.1 kHz. Supported sample rates are 44.1, 48, 88.2 and 96 kHz. Most applications allow you to change the sample rate from within your audio software. You can also change the sample rate in the Control Panel. It is recommended that you do not change the sample rate from the Control Panel while your DAW application is running, as this can cause some applications to exhibit unexpected behavior. In order to receive a digital signal via the S/PDIF input, you will need to change the Control Panels clock setting (in the Settings tab) to external, after which Fast Track Ultra will automatically detect an incoming digital signal and receive its sample rate from that incoming S/PDIF source.
The Software Control Panel
Fast Track Ultras software Control Panel is designed to provide a simple, intuitive interface to control and monitor signals from your DAW and from Fast Track Ultras inputs and outputs. To open the control panel: In Windows, open the Fast Track Ultra control panel by double-clicking on the M-Audio icon Start > Control Panel (Classic View). Double-click on the red M-Audio icon in the system tray, or from

Windows XP

Windows Vista
In Mac OS X, click the M-Audio Fast Track Ultra icon in the system preferences window.
The control panel offers eight tabs, providing monitoring options for all eight outputs as well as a number of additional features. The rst four tabs provide access to each of eight monitor busses, allowing you to route any of the analog or digital inputs, as well as eight returns from your DAW, to any of its eight outputs.
Fast Track Ultra Monitor Tabs
The four Monitor tabs are similar in layout and in operation. Each will allow you to monitor and control the routing of the eight hardware inputs, along with eight returns from your DAW, and send those signals to the tabs corresponding output pair. The Monitor tabs outputs correspond to Fast Track Ultras hardware outputs. Monitor outputs 1/2, 3/4, and 5/6 correspond to the six analog outputs 16. Monitor outputs 7/8 correspond to the S/PDIF digital output 21.

Input Channels

The rst eight channels on each of the Monitor pages correspond to the six analog inputs and two S/PDIF digital inputs. The next eight channels are returns from your DAW application software. Any of these 16 channels can be sent to any of eight possible output busses by selecting the Monitor tab for the desired output pair and setting the levels for the input and software return channels respectively. Each channel provides the following: Level meter monitors the channels input level Pan control sets the position of the signal within the left and right output channel pair Solo button solos that channels output signal in the output channels Mute button mutes that channels output signal to the output channels Link button links a pair of channels together. When the Link button is active, changes made to one channel affect the adjacent (linked) channel as well. Level fader controls the level of that channels signal sent to the output channels. Send control controls the level of that channels signal sent to the internal DSP effects.
Important: Note that changes made to the monitoring mix are completely
independent from, and do not affect signals being recorded to your DAW. NOTE: Only Monitor outputs 1/2 and 3/4 can utilize the internal DSP. Therefore the Monitor mixer tabs for outputs 5/6 and 7/8 do not provide Send controls.

Output Channels

The right side of each Monitor tab provides level meters and faders for its corresponding stereo pair of outputs. Each Monitor tabs output faders control the output level sent to that pair of hardware outputs. The Monitor tabs correspond to each pair of hardware outputs: Monitor outputs 1/2, 3/4, and 5/6 correspond to the six analog outputs 16. Monitor outputs 7/8 correspond to the S/PDIF digital outputs 21. Between the sixteen channel inputs and the two channel outputs is a Bypass button. Activating this button will bypass the internal DSP effects, allowing you to monitor the channel returns without effects. NOTE: Only Monitor outputs 1/2 and 3/4 can utilize the internal DSP. Therefore the Monitor mixer tabs for outputs 5/6 and 7/8 do not provide Bypass buttons.

Settings Tab

Sample Rate Settings The up and down arrows select the current sample rate for the internal clock. Available sample rates are 44.1, 48, 88.2 and 96 kHz. The default sample rate is 44.1 kHz. Note that these arrows are disabled if Fast Track Ultra is set to sync to external clock. See the section below on External Signal Status.
External Signal Status This box displays messages indicating the current synchronization status:.
If the status in the Clock panel (see the Clock section below) is set to Internal, the External Signal Status panel will display this message: Because the clock has been set to internal you may use the sample rate controls to adjust the sample rate and external signals will be ignored. You will be able to adjust the sample rate using the arrows on the Sample Rate Settings box above. It is recommended that you do not change the sample rate from the Control Panel while your DAW application is running, as this can cause some applications to exhibit unexpected behavior. If the status in the Clock panel (see the Clock section below) is set to external, and a valid digital signal is received at Fast Track Ultras S/PDIF input, the External Signal Status panel will display this message: Because the clock has been set to external the sample rate controls may not be adjusted. However, because there is a valid external signal, the sample rate will automatically match that of the external signal. The arrows on the Sample Rate Settings box above will be disabled and the sample rate box will display the incoming sample rate. If the status in the Clock panel (see the Clock section below) is set to external but no valid digital signal is received at Fast Track Ultras S/PDIF input, the External Signal Status panel will display this message: Because the clock has been set to external the sample rate controls may not be adjusted. While there is no valid external signal, the sample rate will remain 48kHz. Clock These two buttons select between the internal clock or the clock from an external digital signal via the S/PDIF input 20. To synchronize Fast Track Ultra to an external digital source, the external setting must be selected. Please see the box below for more information on digital input and external clock.

About External Clock

Digital audio is based on samples. For example, a digital recording at a sample rate of 44.1 kHz contains 44,100 samples, or digital snapshots, per second. Each digital audio device has its own internal clock, or crystal, to generate and control the exact rate and timing of these samples during every second. In order for two or more digital audio devices to function together, only one of their clocks can be in control (the Master), while any other devices must be synchronized to that devices clock (the Slave). Otherwise, the resulting audio will sound distorted, play at the wrong speed, or have clicks and pops. You can set Fast Track Ultra to run as the Word Clock Master (Internal) when digitally connected to other digital audio devices: Connect the S/PDIF output of Fast Track Ultra to the S/PDIF input of another digital audio device and congure that device to synchronize to its S/PDIF input (making it the word clock Slave). Alternatively, you can set another device to act as the Word Clock Master and designate Fast Track Ultra to run as the word clock slave: Connect the S/PDIF output of a 3rd party audio device to the S/PDIF input of Fast Track Ultra. Select external as the clock source setting from within the Fast Track Ultra Control Panel. Fast Track Ultra now runs in sync to the digital S/PDIF signal generated by the other device. Note that Fast Track Ultra can only receive input signal from its S/PDIF input when the clock setting has been set to external.

Driver Settings

ASIO/WDM Buffer Size (Windows only) Latency is dened as the time it takes for your input signal to pass through your audio software and appear at the outputs. This latency can result in a delay that is undesirable when overdubbing to existing tracks. Smaller buffer sizes result in lower latency, but may not function well with slower systems, causing clicks, pops and dropouts in the audio playback. The buffer size arrows select between a range of buffer sizes of 64, 128, 256, 512, 1024, 2048 and 4096 samples. The default buffer size is 256 samples. If you are experiencing clicks and pops in your audio, try increasing the buffer size. ASIO Direct Monitoring (Windows only) Many Windows applications that support ASIO 2.0, also support ASIO direct monitoring. ASIO Direct Monitoring allows your ASIO-compatible software to remotely access and control some routing and monitoring functions of the Fast Track Ultra Control Panel. If you prefer to not use ASIO Direct Monitoring, uncheck the box marked enable asio direct monitoring on this tab. Please refer to your DAW applications user guide for more information on implementing ASIO direct monitoring. High Performance Mode (Windows only) Clicking this box implements High Performance Mode, which further reduces latency required to monitor the audio input signal via your DAW software, and also reduces the CPU load. While most computers support High Performance Mode, if you experience any unexpected results, disable High Performance Mode. Effects Settings This box controls the algorithm and parameters of the internal effects unit. Any channels routed to the internal DSP section will be effected by selections made on this page.

IMPORTANT: Only Send signals from the Monitor tabs for output channels 1/2 and
3/4 are supported by the internal DSP section.
Effects Algorithm Presets The up and down arrows select from a range of reverb and delay algorithms. The presets are: Room 1 Room 2 Room 3 Hall 1 Hall 2 Plate Delay Echo
The three controls beneath the algorithm display offer the following controls for ne tuning the effect: Duration Feedback Volume
Saving and Recalling Settings Files Clicking the Save button in the lower box will open a dialog window, allowing you to save the currently-selected routing settings to your computer. Clicking the Restore button will open a dialog window, allowing you to recall a previously-saved setup.
Fast Track Ultra Meters Tab
This tab provides an immediate overview of the eight hardware inputs and outputs. This is useful when setting up levels for live tracking or mixdown.

Flow Tab

This tab displays a graphic of Fast Track Ultra signal ow.
Fast Track Ultra About Tab
This page contains information on your hardware and current driver software versions. This information may be helpful, should you ever have the occasion to call for technical support. Clicking the buttons in the lower right will take you to useful pages on the M-Audio website. If your computer does not see a valid connection to Fast Track Ultra, or if the unit is powered off, you will see a message noting that on this page.

10 Troubleshooting

Fast Track Ultra has been designed to give you high performance and professional-quality audio. It has been tested under a wide range of systems and operating conditions. However, there are a virtually limitless number of operating scenarios, any of which could affect your systems performance. Though this section cannot cover all possible issues you may encounter, we would like to offer you some suggestions for dealing with common problems. We recommend that you avoid connecting too many devices. The USB bus is a dependable protocol that is ideally suited for digital audio. Nevertheless, it is important to remember that audio and multimedia streaming place considerable demands on your processor and the USB bus. If you are having trouble getting audio in or out of your Fast Track Ultra, please check the following: < If you have no sound: Check to see if Fast Track Ultra drivers are properly installed. In Windows XP, go to the Control Panel and double-click the System icon (under Performance and Maintenance if you are in Category view). Select the Hardware tab and click the Device Manager button. Click the plus sign (+) next to Sound, Video and Game Controllers, and locate the Fast Track Ultra listing. If you see a question mark or exclamation point next to it, or if you dont see it listed, you may need to reinstall the driver software.

Make sure your audio software has been set up to use Fast Track Ultra. Open your applications audio settings page and check to see if the correct ASIO, WDM, or Core Audio drivers have been selected.
< If youre certain Fast Track Ultra is correctly installed and congured for your audio software, check your signal path. Make sure your inputs are routed correctly by verifying that your application is receiving audio signal. Make sure your outputs are routed correctly so that your signal is sent to your headphones, amp and/or monitors. Check your audio connections and cables to make sure everything is plugged in correctly. Check the LED Level Meters to see if input signal is present. Check the Control Panel to verify that the output volume levels are turned up, and that signal is present in the input meters. Check to see that the power button is enabled, and that the USB cable is connected to the unit and the host computer. Check the Front/Rear input selector switch to verify that youve chosen the proper input.
< If youre trying to record a digital input to Fast Track Ultra and have no sound, or are experiencing clicks and pops in your recordings: Make sure the input source on the Settings tab of the Control Panel is set to external. See the section about Word Clock for more information. Make sure your input levels are not too hot, as this can cause distortion and clipping. Check the input level meters in your audio application. Try changing the buffer size (latency setting) in the Control Panel (Windows only). You might want to try using a larger buffer size (higher latency setting). Larger buffer sizes can increase input latency time, but this is not an issue if youre mixing, for example. Increasing the buffer size can be helpful, particularly in the case of older or lower-powered systems. If you are using a USB hub, try connecting Fast Track Ultra directly to your computer.
For more troubleshooting tips, visit the Knowledge Base at www.m-audio.com

11 Specications

Line Outputs Frequency Response: SNR and Dynamic Range: THD+N: Signal Level: 20 Hz to 22 kHz, +/- 0.1 dB @ 48 kHz sample rate -104 dB, A-weighted 0.002%@ -1dBFS, 1kHz +10 dBu balanced +2 dBV, unbalanced Impedance: 300 Ohm balanced 150 Ohm unbalanced Crosstalk: Line Inputs Frequency response: SNR and Dynamic Range: THD+N: Signal Level: 20 Hz to 22 kHz, +/- 0.3 dB @ 48 kHz sample rate -103 dB, A-weighted 0.002% @ -1dBFS, 1kHz +3.4 dBu balanced +1.2 dBV, unbalanced Impedance: 20K Ohm balanced 10K Ohm unbalanced Crosstalk: Headphone Outputs Frequency Response: SNR and Dynamic Range: THD+N: Working Range: Maximum Output Level: Crosstalk: Microphone Input Pre-amp Gain: SNR (min gain): Dynamic Range (min gain): THD+N (min gain): Freq. Response (min gain): Sensitivity: Phantom Power: Switchable Pad: Instrument Input Pre-amp Gain: Impedance: SNR (min gain): Dynamic Range (min gain): THD+N (min gain): Freq. Response (min gain): Maximum Input: Switchable Pad: Power Requirements 0dB to 40dB or greater 1M Ohm unbalanced -103 dB, A-weighted 103 dB, A-weighted 0.005% (-86 dB) @ -1 dBFS, 1 kHz 20 Hz to 22 kHz, +/- 0.3 dB @ 48 kHz sample rate +14dbv max level at min gain (pad disengaged) -20 dB Power is derived from either the host computers USB bus or from the included 5VDC 2000mA power supply. 60dB or greater -103 dB, A-weighted 103 dB, A-weighted 0.003% @ -1dBFS 20 Hz to 22 kHz, +/- 0.1 dB @ 48 kHz sample rate +1dBu max level at min gain, +21dBu max level at min gain (pad engaged) 48 Volts DC no load, 16mA max -20 dB 20 Hz to 22 kHz, +/- 0.7 dB @ 48 kHz sample rate 96 dB, A-weighted < 0.065% at maximum volume 24 to 600 ohms 0dbv into 32ohms 55 dB @ 1 kHz < -100 dB @ 1 kHz < -100 dB @ 1 kHz

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M-Audio France

Renseignements Commerciaux
Floor 6, Gresham House, 53 Clarenden Road, Watford WD17 1LA, United Kingdom tel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . email. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . info@m-audio.fr Assistance Technique PC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mac. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . e-mail (PC). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . support@m-audio.fr email (Mac). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . mac@m-audio.fr fax. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . +33 (0)52 Web. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.m-audio.com

PRESS RELEASE
M-Audio Unveils Fast Track Ultra 8R
Rack-mountable 8 x 8 USB 2.0 inte rface brings full-featured studio solution to Fast Track product family
LOS ANGELES, March 12, 2008 M-Audio, a leading provider of creative tools for musicians and a part of Avid Technology, Inc. (Nasdaq: AVID), announced today the rack-mountable Fast Track Ultra 8R 8 x 8 audio MIDI interface, which follows the release of the mobile Fast Track Ultra interface. The Fast Track Ultra 8R interface features high-speed USB 2.0 connectivity, MX Core DSP mixer, and eight preamps with award-winning Octane technologyintroducing a comprehensive studio solution to the acclaimed Fast Track product family. Designed for demanding multi-track projects, the Fast Track Ultra 8R interface features a rugged 1U rack-mountable metal chassis. Like the FireWire serial (IEEE 1394) bus, high-speed USB 2.0 technology delivers the bandwidth for advanced performance with 24bit/96kHz audio resolution throughout the recording and monitoring process. The increased data speed lets users enjoy exceptional fidelity on all of the inputs and outputs simultaneously. USB 2.0 is also ubiquitous on all current PC and Mac computers. The Fast Track Ultra 8R interface features eight preamps with multi-award-winning M-Audio Octane technology, creating a premium front end that delivers exceptional audio clarity. Users get professional low-noise, high-gain preamplification with enough channels for miking drum kits and complete ensembles. Features include +48V phantom power for condenser mics, signal/peak LED indicator lights and a pull-out gain knob that activates a 20dB pad for recording at high volumes. In addition, all eight inputs accept line-level signals. Fast Track Ultra 8R also provides two front-panel instrument inputs. Like the Fast Track Ultra, the Fast Track Ultra 8R interface incorporates M-Audios MX Core DSP technology. The robust MX Core mixer employs an array of eight individual DSP cores to deliver near-zero latency, effects and a matrix for sophisticated channel routing optionsaccessible via an intuitive control panel that utilizes a separate mixer for each pair of outputs. MX Core technology enables users to apply reverb while tracking vocals to get more out of an artists performance, and take advantage of the two independent headphone outputs to create separate monitor mixes when recording multiple musiciansall without burdening the computer. The mixer provides for up to a 16 x 8 configuration, allowing users to connect microphones, synths and other outboard gear to any of the interfaces hardware inputs, then mix them with the eight audio streams coming from the computer without taxing the CPU. The Fast Track Ultra 8R interface provides eight channels of analog inputs and outputs plus 2-channel digital S/PDIF for input flexibility. The interface also features two dedicated analog inserts on the first two channels, allowing users to insert outboard processing before A/D conversion. Easy connection via USB 2.0 delivers both audio and MIDI communication with a computer. The Fast Track Ultra 8R interface is compatible with most major audio software and seamlessly integrates into any studio setup. The Fast Track Ultra is bringing innovative new functionality to users who record in personal studios or on the go, said Adam Castillo, M-Audios marketing director. The Fast Track Ultra 8R builds on this power and functionality with four additional preamps in a rack-mountable metal chassis, making it ideal for demanding projects. By adding the Fast Track Ultra 8R to the line, M-Audio delivers a Fast Track solution for every recordist, from the professional producer to the entry-level singer/songwriter. The Fast Track Ultra 8R is currently expected to ship in the second quarter of 2008 and carries an MSRP of US$629.95. High-res images of M-Audio products are available at http://www.m-audio.com/company/images.php. About M-Audio M-Audio, a part of Avid Technology, Inc., is a leading provider of innovative tools for today's computer musicians and audio th professionals. Now celebrating its 20 anniversary, the company was founded with the goal of democratizing music production by making powerful, easy-to-use technology accessible to a broad creative community. The companys award-winning and comprehensive product line includes PCI-, FireWire- and USB-based audio interfaces; USB/MIDI keyboard controllers and digital pianos; microphones, preamps and reference monitors; and DJ tools. M-Audio has received numerous industry accolades, including Music Trades' "Company of the Year" and "Fastest Growing Company" distinctions. For more information, visit www.m-audio.com.

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M-Audio USA: 5795 Martin Rd. Irwindale, CA 91706 Tel: (626) 633-9050 Fax: (626) 633-9060 www.m-audio.com info@m-audio.com M-Audio Benelux: Vreelandseweg CH Hilversum Netherlands Tel: 31-35-6250093 www.m-audio.com benelux@m-audio.com M-Audio Canada: 1400 St. Jean Baptiste Ave., #150 Quebec City, QC G2E 5B7 Tel: (418) 872-0444 Fax: (418) 872-0034 www.m-audio.ca info@m-audio.ca M-Audio France: Unit 5, Saracen Industrial Estate, Mark Rd Hemel Hempstead, Herts, HP2 7BJ England Tel: 105 (Azur) Fax: 731 (Indigo) www.m-audio.fr M-Audio Germany: Kuhallmand 34 D-74613 Ohringen Germany Tel: Fax: www.m-audio.de info@m-audio.de M-Audio Japan: 4F ATT Bldg. 2-11-7 Akasaka Minato-ku Tokyo 107-0052 Japan Tel: 81 (0)3-3505-7963 Fax: 81 (0)3-3505-3417 Web: www.m-audio.jp press@m-audio.jp M-Audio Latin-America: 5795 Martin Rd. Irwindale, CA 91706 Tel: (626) 633-9050 Fax: (626) 633-9060 cadams@m-audio.com M-Audio UK: Floor 6, Gresham House, 53 Clarendon Road Watford WD17 1LA England Tel: 44 (0) Fax: 44 (0) www.maudio.co.uk info@maudio.co.uk

www.m-audio.com

About Avid Technology, Inc. Avid is a worldwide leader in tools for film, video, audio, 3D animation, gaming and broadcast professionals as well as for home audio and video enthusiasts. Avid professional and consumer brands include Avid, Digidesign, M-Audio, Pinnacle Systems, Sibelius, Softimage and Sundance Digital. The vast majority of primetime television shows, feature films, commercials and charttopping music hits are made using one or more Avid products. Whether used by seasoned professionals or beginning students, Avids products and services enable customers to work more efficiently, productively and creatively. Avid received an Oscar statuette representing the 1998 Scientific and Technical Award for the concept, design, and engineering of the Avid Film Composer system for motion picture editing. For more information about the companys Oscar , Grammy and Emmy awardwinning products and services, visit www.avid.com. # # # 2008 Avid Technology, Inc. All rights reserved. Product features, specifications, system requirements and availability are subject to change without notice. All prices are MSRP for U.S. and Canada only and are subject to change without notice. Avid, Digidesign, Film Composer, M-Audio, Pinnacle Systems, Sibelius, Softimage, Sundance, Fast Track, Octane and Pro Tools M-Powered are trademarks or registered trademarks of Avid Technology, Inc. or its subsidiaries in the United States and/or other countries. Emmy is a registered trademark of ATAS/NATAS. Oscar is a trademark and service mark of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Grammy is a trademark of the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences, Inc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. U.S. media contact: Dina Butler M-Audio 626-610-2513 Dina_Butler@m-audio.com