Reference Manual

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Table Of Contents

Introduction...5
Welcome!.... 5 About the MultiMix USB2.0...6 All-In-One Mixer and Multichannel Computer Audio Interface... 6 MultiMix USB2.0 Key Features... 6 Additional Features of the MultiMix 16 USB2.0.. 7 How to Use This Manual...8 A Few Words for Beginners...9 Hooking up the MultiMix USB2.0..11 Using Proper Cables...12 Setting Levels...12 Patchbay...13 Mic Inputs (Channels 1 8)... 13 Line Inputs (Channels 1 8)... 13 Line Inputs (Channels 9 16)... 14 PHONE Jack.... 14 AUX RETURNS... 14 AUX SENDS.... 14 ALT 3/4 OUT.... 14 2-TRACK.... 14 MAIN MIX OUT.... 14 CTRL RM OUT.... 15 Channel Strips...15 Fader.... 15 MUTE / Alt 3/4.... 15 PFL / SOLO.... 15 PAN or BAL... 15 Aux.... 16 EQ..... 16 Master Section...16 Main Mix Fader... 16 Alt 3/4 Fader.... 17 2TK To Mix.... 17 Alt 3/4 To Mix.... 17 Solo Mode.... 17 HDPH / CTRL RM... 18 MIX Switch... 18 ALT 3/4 Switch... 18 2TK Switch... 18 Aux Ret A Level... 18 Effects / Aux Ret B level... 18 LED Meters.... 19 POWER Indicator... 19 +48V Indicator... 19 Rear of the Mixer...20
Chapter Two: A Tour of the MultiMix.13
Power Input.... 20 Power Supply Unit... 20 Power On.... 20 Phantom On... 20 USB2.0 port.... 20
Chapter Three: Digital Effects Processor...21
Effects Section Components..21 Program Selection Knob... 21 LED Display... 21 CLIP Indicator.... 21 SIG Indicator.... 21 Effect Descriptions...21 HALL.... 21 ROOM.... 21 PLATE.... 21 CHAMBER.... 21 CHORUS.... 22 FLANGE.... 22 DELAY.... 22 PITCH.... 22 MULTI & MULTI II.... 22
Chapter Four: Traditional Mixing.23
Simple Live Setup...23 Using Additional External Audio Sources..23 Simple Two-Channel Recording Setup (without using a computer)...24
Chapter Five: Firewire Recording.25
First-time connection and driver installation instructions...25 Installing the optional applications.26 Power-on/Power off order..26 USB2.0 inputs and outputs..27 Channels sent from the MultiMix to the computer. 27 Channels returned from the computer to the MultiMix.. 27 Sound setup under Windows..28 Disabling Windows System Sounds..30 Connections and settings for USB2.0 recording and monitoring..31 Using the MultiMix USB2.0 with Cubase and other ASIO applications..31 Choosing the MultiMix as your audio device... 32 Creating a new audio file... 35 Working with the Alesis USB2.0 control panel...39
Accessing the control panel... 39 Using the MultiMix USB2.0 with Sonar and other WDM applications...40 Choosing the MultiMix as your audio device... 40 Assigning inputs to audio tracks... 43 Using the MultiMix USB2.0 with CoreAudio on the Macintosh...44
Chapter Six: Troubleshooting: nonFirewire...45 Chapter Seven: Troubleshooting: Software...49
Computer or audio application does not see the MultiMix USB2.0...49 Basic troubleshooting... 49 Audio playback or recording is at the wrong speed...49 Audio playback or recording stutters or drops out...49 Audio echoes during recording..49 Computer Requirements:..52

Chapter Eight: Specifications..51 Chapter Nine: Block Diagrams..53 Glossary...55 Contact..58
Alesis Contact Information... 58 Trademarks... 58
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Introduction

Welcome!
Thank you for making the Alesis MultiMix USB2.0 a part of your studio. Since 1984, we've been designing and building creative tools for the audio community. We believe in our products, because we've heard the results that creative people like you have achieved with them. One of Alesis' goals is to make high-quality studio equipment available to everyone, and this Reference Manual is an important part of that. After all, there's no point in making equipment with all kinds of capabilities if no one explains how to use them. So, we try to write our manuals as carefully as we build our products. The goal of this manual is to get you the information you need as quickly as possible, with a minimum of hassle. We hope we've achieved that. If not, please drop us an email and give us your suggestions on how we could improve future editions of this manual. We hope your investment will bring you many years of creative enjoyment and help you achieve your musical goals. Sincerely, The people of Alesis
For more effective service and product update notices, please register your MultiMix USB2.0 mixer online at: http://www.alesis.com/ index.php?registration
About the MultiMix USB2.0
The MultiMix USB2.0 mixers are the latest in the large family of Alesis audio mixers and the fourth series that includes computer interfacing (following on the launch of the MultiMix USB mixers in 2004, the MultiMix FireWire mixers in 2005, and the iMultiMix8 USB-with-iPod mixer in 2007). Weve come a long way since introducing our first mixing console in 1989. Since that time audio technology has grown in leaps and bounds, pushing up quality and driving down prices. Only a few years ago, you wouldnt have been able to buy a mixer with analog performance this powerful for such an affordable price, and the addition of multichannel, 96kHz computer audio interfacing would have been a pipe dream. Just take a look at the key features listed below, and youll see that you have just made an incredible addition to your home studio or live setup.

Additional Features of the MultiMix 16 USB2.0
PFL/Solo in place functionality per channel isolates a channel with a single push of a button. Mute/Alt 3/4 assign per channel lets you mute a channel and, at the same time, route its signal to the mixers ALT 3/4 outputa separate stereo bus. Independent Main Mix and Alt 3/4 levels permits you to separately command the levels of the MultiMixs two stereo buses

How to Use This Manual

This manual is divided into the following sections describing the various functions and applications of the MultiMix consoles. While it's a good idea to read through the entire manual once carefully, those having general knowledge about mixing should use the table of contents to look up specific functions. Chapter 1: Getting Started shows you how to include the MultiMix in your audio setup for recording, computer interfacing, and live applications. Weve included a hookup diagram, guidelines for which cables to use and the vital steps you must take to set levels properly. Chapter 2: A Tour of the MultiMix describes the MultiMix piece by piece. This chapter also features diagrams of the mixer to help you find each component as you read about it. Chapter 3: Digital Effects Processor explains the effects provided by the on-board digital effects processor. If you want to know what a certain effect will do to your sound before you select it, this is where you should look. Chapter 4: Traditional Mixing outlines a number of scenarios in which you can use the MultiMix for live mixing and simple, non-USB2.0 based recording. Chapter 5: USB2.0 Recording orients you to the MultiMixs powerful USB2.0 recording features, including software installation and setup with common DAW programs. Chapter 6: Troubleshooting can give you a hand if youre experiencing problems with your mixer. Youll find that most issues can be resolved simply and quickly with the push of a button. Chapter 7: Specifications and Chapter 8: Block Diagrams are full of technical information for the more techie users. And at the end of this manual youll see a glossary of common mixing-related terms.
Helpful tips and adv shaded box like this
Helpful tips and advice are highlighted in a shaded box like this.
When something important appears in the manual, an exclamation mark (like the one shown at left) will appear with some explanatory text. This symbol indicates that this information is vital when operating the MultiMix consoles.
When something im manual, an exclama shown at left) will a explanatory text. Th this information is v MultiMix-12FX.
A Few Words for Beginners
We realize that some of you who have purchased the MultiMix USB2.0 are fairly new to the art of mixing and computer recording. Weve written this manual with that in mind. We designed the MultiMix to be both powerful and easy enough to use that even a beginner can quickly pick up the basics. Many mixer manualsand manuals for just about any electronic instrument for that matterare full of complicated terminology and incomplete instructions that presume a lot of experience on the part of the reader. We try to avoid that with this manual. True enough, you will find all the technical lingo and specifications you can handle in here, but we do our best to make this accessible to you. Beginners will find several elements of this manual especially useful. Keep your eye out for the tips found in the gray boxes on the right side of the page. Be sure to check out the hookup diagrams on page 11, which will give you some ideas on how to fit the mixer into your audio setup after youve taken a tour of the mixer in Chapter 2. And if you come across any terms that you havent seen before, the glossary probably can help you out.

One of the most important things youll do before you begin a mixing session is to set the levels. Be sure to refer to the instructions on page 20.
One of the most before you begin the levels. Be sur on page 14.
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1 Getting Started

Important: download the drivers from http://www.alesis.com onto a folder on your desktop or insert the software CD into your computers CD drive BEFORE you plug your MultiMix into your computer for the first time. See page 25 for details.
Hooking up the MultiMix USB2.0
This diagram will help you get the MultiMix USB2.0 hooked up and ready to go. The equipment you use depends on personal preference and on whether youre performing live or recording. For example, youll see below that the MAIN MIX OUT can be routed to a recording device for recording, or to a PA system for live performance.
Be sure to follow the guidelines for which cables to use (further down this page) and the procedure for setting levels (on the next page) before you begin mixing.

Getting Started

Using Proper Cables
When connecting instruments and other equipment to the MultiMix, its important that you use the appropriate types of cables. Here are some simple but important guidelines: For the mic inputs, use XLR cables. For the line inputs and all other 1/4 connections, use 1/4 mono TRS cables. Use stereo RCA cables for the 2-track in and out. Use a USB 2.0 cable to connect one of the USB 2.0 ports to a computer.

Setting Levels

Before you can begin mixing and recording different audio sources with your MultiMix, you must set the level for each channel youre using. This helps to prevent distortion and clipping. Heres how: 1. Slide the channel fader to unity gain (0). 2. Turn the AUX SEND and GAIN controls all the way down, and turn the EQ knobs to the center detent (youll feel a click). 3. Connect the source of the signal to the channels input. 4. Press the PFL / SOLO switch on the channel. 5. Make sure the SOLO MODE switch in the master section is set to SOLO. 6. Play the instrument at a normal level and watch the LED meters in the master section. 7. Adjust the channels GAIN knob until the LED meters remain at or very close to 0. 8. If you need to apply EQ, do so and check the meters again.

A Tour of the MultiMix USB2.0
Line Inputs (Channels 9 16)
Unlike channels 1 8, the line inputs on channels are stereo inputs that have left and right inputs. If youre using one of these channels as a mono input, plug your instrument into the left input. Channels dont have the extra gain found on channels because most line-level instruments dont require the extra boost. Synthesizers and other electronic instruments will work especially well on these channels. These inputs are also good for connecting CD players or tape decks, as these audio sources dont require extra gain.

PHONE Jack

The headphone jack accepts 1/4 jacks. If your headphones are 1/8, you can find a 1/8 to 1/4 adapter in most electronics stores.
Any audio signal that is routed to the MAIN OUTPUTS will also be sent out of the DIGITAL OUTPUT jack. The level is controlled by the MAIN FADERS. The DIGITAL OUTPUT mirrors the output from the MAIN OUTPUTS.

AUX RETURNS

These are the 1/4 jacks where you connect the outputs of an external effects processor or other audio source. Each aux return gives you 15dB of gain that can be controlled by the AUX RET A and EFFECTS / AUX RET B LEVEL knobs in the mixers output section.
If you are using an effects device with only a mono output, plug it into the left return of STEREO AUX RETURN. It will appear in the center of the stereo spectrum, and not to the left.

AUX SENDS

And this is the 1/4 jack where you connect the cable thats going into the input of an external effects processor. The aux sends give you 10dB of gain that can be controlled in the AUX section of each channel input.

ALT 3/4 OUT

These jacks are the outputs for the MultiMixs extra stereo bus. This signal includes channels whose MUTE / ALT 3/4 switch is activated.

2-TRACK

The 2-TRACK IN and OUT jacks are standard RCA jacks. Youll use the OUTs for mixing to a tape deck or other recorder. With the INs you can bring in a signal, which can be monitored and even added to the main mix via the 2TK TO MIX switch in the master section of the mixer. The 2-TRACK INPUT is blended with any signal coming back from a computer over the USB2.0 connection.

MAIN MIX OUT

These 1/4 jacks are where the signal on the main mix bus leaves the mixer. From there you can send it to a recorder or a PA system. The level of this signal is controlled by the MAIN MIX fader.

CTRL RM OUT

You can use these 1/4" jacks to send the control room signal to the input of the amplifier driving your monitors or headphones. This output can carry several different signals, depending on which source you have selected in the master section of the mixer.

Channel Strips

The eight channel strips are virtually identical to each other, with the only difference being that channels are mono and channels are stereo. Each channel strip contains the following components.
The fader controls how much of the signal from the mic or line inputs is sent to the channel. To adjust the level, simply slide the fader up and down to the desired level. In the lowest position, levels are cut completely, and in the uppermost position you get an additional 10dB of gain. When the fader is at 0, it is at unity gain, where the level of the output equals the level of the input.

MUTE / Alt 3/4

This switch has two purposes. The mute function is pretty selfexplanatory: when you press the switch, the channels output is no longer routed to the main mix output. The second purpose of this switch is that in addition to muting a channel, it also routes it to the ALT 3/4 OUT found in the patchbay. This is where you get the MultiMixs extra stereo bus. If you dont have anything connected to the ALT 3/4 OUT, the switch acts only as a mute button. If you do have something connectedsay, a multitrack recorderthis button acts as a signal router.

PFL / SOLO

The PFL / SOLO switch allows you to single out a channel so you can make adjustments to it before you run it into the main mix. This is useful for setting an instruments gain or EQ and for troubleshooting. PFL stands for pre-fade listen. In other words this switch lets you hear the signal before it is affected by the fader. This switch is post-EQ.

PAN or BAL

This controllabeled PAN on the mono channels and BAL on the stereo channelslets you assign the channel to a particular spot within the stereo spectrum. If you turn this knob to the left, you can hear the signal move to the left, and if you turn it to the rightyou get the picture. The pan controls do this by adjusting the amount of the signal being sent to the left main mix bus versus the right main mix bus. The balance controls do it by controlling
the relative balance of the left and right channel signals being sent to the left and right main mix buses.

Alt 3/4 To Mix

This switch adds the signal from the Alt 3/4 bus to the main mix bus.

Solo Mode

The SOLO MODE switch affects the signals of channels whose PFL / SOLO switches are engaged. When the SOLO MODE switch is in the up position, youre in PFL, or pre-fader listen mode. This means that youll hear the signals of all soloed channels as they sound before they pass through their respective faders. Youll need to be in PFL mode when youre setting levels (see Setting Channel Levels, page 12. This mode is post-EQ. When the SOLO MODE switch is engaged (in the down position), you are in SOLO mode. This means that you will hear the output of every soloed channel (after it passes through its fader, pan and EQ).
The purpose of seeing a soloed channels level on the LED meters is so that you can see the true level of that channels signal. For that reason, the HDPH / CTRL RM knob does not change the LED meters readingit changes only the level at which youre listening to the soloed channel.

HDPH / CTRL RM

The HDPH / CTRL RM knob controls the level of the signal being sent to the CTRL RM OUT and the PHONES output. The level of this signal is represented by the LED meters. The switches to the right of the HDPH / CTRL RM knob determine the source of the control room mix as explained below. You can use these switches in any combination. If no switches are selected, youll hear silence in the control room mix and the LED meters wont light up. The CTRL RM in the name of this knob refers to the fact that it controls the signal that typically is sent to the control room monitors of a studio, where someoneusually an engineeris working the mixer. However, dont be intimidated if youre using this mixer in your bedroom, which probably isnt equipped with a control room. In this scenario, you can use headphones or connect the CTRL RM OUT to your speakers.
When you solo a channel via its PFL / SOLO switch, that channels signal will override your control room mix selection. You then will hear only that channel in the control room and the headphones.

MIX Switch

Pressing the MIX switch routes the main mix to the control room level control. When you engage this switch, the channels and aux sends will pass through the MAIN MIX fader and then through the HDPH / CTRL RM level control. You can then keep the MAIN MIX fader set to unity gain for optimal recording, and the HDPH / CTRL RM level control set to a more comfortable listening level if necessary.

ALT 3/4 Switch

When you press the ALT 3/4 switch, the signal from the ALT 3/4 stereo mix bus is routed through the HDPH / CTRL RM level control.

2TK Switch

If you want to monitor the signal coming in from the 2-TRACK jacks and from the computer (if a USB cable is attached), press the 2TK switch.

Aux Ret A Level

This is the level control for the signal returning to the mixer via AUX RETURN A.
Effects / Aux Ret B level
If you are using one of the MultiMixs internal effects, this knob controls the effect level. If AUX SEND B is connected to an external device, this knob controls the level for AUX RETURN B.

LED Meters

These are the two rows of yellow, green and red lights you see in the master section of the mixer. They are very versatile, allowing you to view the signal level of the main mix, individual channels (both pre- and post-fader) and aux returns depending on which signal you have routed to the control room mix.

POWER Indicator

When this LED is lit up, that means the POWER ON switch on the rear of the mixer has been activated.

+48V Indicator

When this one is lit up, that means the PHANTOM ON switch on the rear of the mixer has been activated and is supplying +48V phantom power to all XLR mic inputs.

Rear of the Mixer

Heres what youll find at the rear of the mixer.
Heres where you plug in your mixers external power supply. You should always connect your power supply to the mixer before you plug the power supply into an electrical outlet.

Power Input

Power Supply Unit
This unit provides 18.5 VAC at 700 mA of power, more than enough to keep your MultiMix running smoothly. As with nearly all power supply units, this one tends to get warm when left on for a while. This is perfectly normal.
The POWER INPUT is built to accept only the power supply unit provided with your MultiMix, or an AC power supply that has the same specs. Others probably will not work.

Power On

Another easy one. Switch this one on and your mixer has power. Switch it off and it doesnt. Make sure the faders in the master section are pulled all the way down when powering your mixer up or down.

Phantom On

This switch activates and deactivates the phantom power described in Mic Inputs (Channels 1 4), page 13. This switch controls phantom power for all four mic inputs.
As we said earlier, its very important that you plug in your microphones and mute your system before you turn on phantom power.

USB2.0 port

This port allows you to connect the MultiMix to a computer for multichannel digital audio communication.
If you connect to a computer with a USB 1.1 port, you will be restricted to recording and playing back only two channels at either 44.1kHz or 48kHz.
3 Digital Effects Processor
Onboard your MultiMix USB2.0 is a powerful effects unit that has 100 preset programs. We offer a few tips on where to use these, but dont limit yourself to our suggestions. We recommend that you experiment with these effects to get a good feel for how they can improve your mixes
Effects Section Components Program Selection Knob
You can use this knob to assign one of 100 effect programs to your mix. Turning the knob to the right increments the program number, and turning it to the left decrements the program number. You can control the level of the effect for each channel via the channels AUX B knob. You must PRESS the effect knob to activate the selected effect.

LED Display

This display shows you the number of the current program.

CLIP Indicator

When lit, this LED tells you that there is a signal clip at the internal effects input. This means that you should reduce the signal via the EFFECTS / AUX RET B LEVEL control.

SIG Indicator

When lit, this LED indicates that the effects processor is receiving a signal.
You cannot use the A on-board effects at th

Effect Descriptions HALL

This type of reverb simulates the ambience of a grand concert hall.
This type of reverb reproduces the more intimate ambiance of natural room acoustics.
These are simulations of metal plate reverbs, as used on classic recordings from the '70s and '80s.

CHAMBER

These are simulations of the reverb created by artificial echo chambers, as used on classic recordings of the '50s and '60s.
Digital Effects Processor

CHORUS

These create the effect of multiple voices (or instruments) sounding at once from a single input.

FLANGE

These create a sweeping, swooshing sound effect that you will probably recognize.
These effects are based on a discreet repetition or echo of the input.

Some versions of Cubase do not allow all inputs to be used simultaneously.
Click the activation buttons for channel pairs that you want to use.
Creating a new audio file
Now, youre ready to create an audio project. Choose File | New Project
You can begin with a template or an empty file. For now, begin with an empty file.
3. Cubase needs to know where to place audio. Choose a directory here.
An excellent scheme for storing your projects is to create a directory called audio projects. Then, within that folder, create a new folder for each song you work on. Cubase will store your song file and all associated audio files in that same folder.
Now, you have a blank project. Add an audio track for recording by choosing Project | Add Track | Audio.
Be sure that the inspectora strip on the left-hand side of Cubase that shows all sorts of information about the selected trackis active. If your view is similar to that shown below, the Inspector is active. If you do not see all of the information on the lefthand side, the Inspector is not active. To activate it, press the show Inspector button towards the upper left of the screen (just below the Edit menu in the following picture).
Later, you can hide the Inspector if you want to save space on your screen.
Choose an input for your track by selecting it from the in area on the left. To record stereo on the track, click the button highlighted below.
You will do most of your monitoring through the mixer. However, if you want to monitor with Cubases effects, or if you just want to hear what the computer is hearing, press the direct monitoring button next to the Record Enable button.
Note that using direct monitoring causes a small delay as the digital audio is being processed. For this reason, when you use direct monitoring, you may want to press the MultiMixs MIX TO CONTROL ROOM button up so as not to hear the audio signal twice.
Add additional audio tracks as needed. Record-arm each one and press the RECORD button to begin recording.
For additional information, consult your softwares documentation.
Working with the Alesis USB2.0 control panel Accessing the control panel
In Windows, open the Alesis USB2.0 control panel from either the All Programs menu or within your audio application. On the Mac, access this panel from the configure device button of Audio/MIDI Setup.
To open the control panel from within Cubase in Windows, select Devices | Device Setup. | VST MultiTrack. Then, click the Control Panel button.
Here, you can see your current sample rate, driver and firmware versions, and you can change your audio latency. Higher latency settings generally allow for more stable audio performance and generally allow you to run more simultaneous audio tracks and plugins. The downside is that higher latency introduces noticeable lag between the time that you perform an action and the time you listen back to it. For this reason, many people use lower latency settings when recording tracks and then switch to higher ones when mixing.

Check all cables; substitute cables with known good ones. Set channel levels using the procedure on page 12. Turn down your instrument to a normal volume and then set channel levels using procedure on page 12. Lower the level of AUX RET B in the master section of the mixer. Lower the MAIN MIX fader in the master section of the mixer. Lower the ALT 3/4 fader in the master section.
AUX RET B level is too high. MAIN MIX level is too high. ALT 3/4 level is too high.
Troubleshooting: non-USB2.0
Audio signal carries an unwanted hum.
Too much low-level noise in the mix. Interference from appliances such as air conditioners. Not using TRS cables.
Engage the channels high-pass filter by pressing the HPF switch. Engage the channels high-pass filter by pressing the HPF switch. Make sure you are using 1/4 TRS cables. Turn on phantom power using the switch on the rear panel of the mixer. Test the microphone on other audio devices. If you detect damage, contact the manufacturer or dealer. Raise channel fader. Turn up the instruments volume control. If problem persists, check the instrument by plugging headphones into the instruments phone jack. Check the MUTE / ALT 3/4 switch. Adjust the channels GAIN control. Turn up the level using the EFFECTS / AUX RET B LEVEL control in the master section of the mixer. Press the EFFECTS knob on the desired effect and make sure the SIG indicator is lit.
Microphone level is too low.
Phantom power is not turned on. Microphone is damaged.
No or low sound from a channel.
Fader is too low. Instrument volume is too low.
Channel is muted. Gain is too low. Internal effects arent working. Effects level is too low.
An effect hasnt been selected.
External effects arent working.
Effects processor is not plugged in or turned on. Aux outputs of mixer arent connected to inputs of processor or processors outputs arent connected to mixers inputs (or aux return). Mixers effects return signal is too low.
Make sure unit is plugged in and turned on. Make sure the mixers aux outputs are connected to the processors inputs and that the processors outputs are connected to the mixers aux inputs. Turn up the output of the effects processor or turn up the mixers AUX RET A RETURN or EFFECTS / AUX RET B RETURN in the master section. Press the desired MIX, ALT or 2 TK button. Unplug the USB2.0 cable and turn off the MultiMix. Turn the MultiMix back on and plug the cable back in. If this does not work, leave the MultiMix on, turn off the computer (do not use restart but instead actually turn off the computer) and then turn it on again. In the computers Control Panel, go to the Sounds/Multimedia area. In the Audio section, set the default sound recording and playback devices to MultiMix USB2.0. Replace with correct power supply (only use Alesisrecommended AC output power supply).

LED meters not working. Computer does not see the MultiMix.
Nothing is routed to the HDPH/CTRL RM output. USB2.0 connection must be established.
Computer sees the MultiMix USB2.0, but no sound is received and/or transmitted.
MultiMix USB2.0 is not set as primary sound device.

No power.

Incorrect or defective power supply.
7 Troubleshooting: USB2.0
Computer or audio application does not see the MultiMix USB2.0 Basic troubleshooting
First, check that the MultiMix is seen by the computer: Open the Alesis control panel and check that Windows sees the device as attached. No connection If MultiMix Audio does not appear, Windows does not see the mixer as being connected to the computer. Check your USB2.0 cable and try powering the mixer off and on again. As a last resort, re-start your computer.
When restarting your computer, turn it off all the way. Pull out the AC power cord, keep it out for a few seconds, and then plug it back in again before you restart your computer. This step helps reset your computers motherboard, including any USB2.0 ports and cards.
Audio playback or recording is at the wrong speed
Adjust the buffers in the ASIO control panel or through your WDM applications audio setup options. It is impossible to say which buffer settings are perfect for each system, but generally buffer sizes around the middle or low-middle of the available range provide the best results.
Audio playback or recording stutters or drops out
Again, work with the buffer settings in the ASIO control panel or through your WDM applications audio setup options in order to find the most reliable setting. Many audio applications include advanced setting dialog boxes where pre-fetch and other parameters can be set. Explore those options.
Help on the web Most major recording programs are supported by lively user forums. The odds are that, if youre having problems, someone who posts at these forums has already experienced them and found solutions. Dont be shy about visiting these forums and posting your questions.
Audio echoes during recording
Either turn your software direct monitoring off orif you want to monitor your incoming audio through your softwareput the MIX TO CTRL RM button in the UP position. Be sure to attach your monitoring speakers to the CTRL RM OUT jacks, not the MAIN MIX OUT jacks.

Troubleshooting: USB2.0

8 Specifications
For the more technical-minded, here are some detailed specifications for the MultiMixs operating levels. Input Channels Mic In Sensitivity Range: Line In Sensitivity Range: Mic/Line Gain Range: Equalization High-Pass Filter: High Shelving: Mid Bandpass/Band Reject: Low Shelving: -60dBu to 10dBu nominal, +5dBu maximum -40dBu to -+10dBu nominal, +25dBu maximum +10 to +60dB 75Hz, 18dB/octave 12kHz, +/- 15dB 2.5 kHz, +/- 15dB 80Hz, +/- 15dB

send stereo unity gain

WDM wet
Alesis Contact Information
Alesis Distribution, LLC Los Angeles, CA USA E-mail: Web site: support@alesis.com http://www.alesis.com
MultiMix USB2.0 Reference Manual Revision 1.0 by Edwin Erdmann, Brooks Bruner, and Fred Morgenstern. Copyright 2005-2007, Alesis Distribution, LLC. All rights reserved Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited. MultiMix and MultiMix USB2.0 are trademarks of Alesis, LLC. Specifications subject to change without notice.

Trademarks

All trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Specifically: Windows and Windows XP are trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. ASIO and Cubase are trademarks of Steinberg Media Technologies GmbH. Sonar is a trademark of Twelve Tone Systems, Inc. Apple, Mac, OS X, and CoreAudio are trademarks of Apple.

7-51-0241-A 7/20/2007

7-51-0241-A

Quick Start Owners Manual
BOX CONTENTS MIXING CONSOLE POWER SUPPLY USB 2.0 CABLE SOFTWARE DVD
Manual de inicio rpido para el usuario (ESPAOL)
CONTENIDOS DE LA CAJA MIXING CONSOLE FUENTE DE ALIMENTACIN CABLE USB 2.0 DVD DE SOFTWARE
Bedienungsanleitung (DEUTSCH)
SCHACHTELINHALT MIXING BEDIENPULT STROMKABEL USB 2.0 KABEL SOFTWARE DVD
Guide dutilisation du propritaire (FRANAIS)
CONTENU DE LA BOTE CONSOLE DE MIXAGE BLOC DALIMENTATION CBLE USB 2.0 DVD LOGICIEL
Manuale rapido di utilizzazione (ITALIANO)
CONTENUTO DELLA CONFEZIONE MIXING CONSOLE CAVI DI ALIMENTAZIONE CAVO USB 2.0 DVD CONTENENTE IL SOFTWARE
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MULTIMIX USB 2.0 QUICK START OWNERS MANUAL

(ENGLISH)

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. Make sure all items listed on the front of this guide are included in the box. READ SAFETY INSTRUCTION BOOKLET BEFORE USING THE PRODUCT Study this setup diagram. Place the MultiMix USB 2.0 in an appropriate position for operation. Make sure all devices are turned off and all volumes are at zero Connect all input sources as indicated in the diagram. Connect the outputs to the power amplifier(s), tape decks, and/or audio sources. Connect the USB 2.0 cable to a computer Plug your MultiMix USB 2.0 and other devices into AC power. Switch everything on in the following order: Audio input sources External effects, recording devises or equalizers The MultiMix USB 2.0 Amplifiers Computer When turning off, always reverse this operation by: Turning off computers Turning off amplifiers Turning off he MultiMix USB 2.0 External effects, recording devises or equalizers Last, any input devices Go to http://www.alesis.com/ for product registration.

CHANNEL FEATURES

1. EQ: Boosts or cuts the respective frequencies for each channel. When recording via USB 2.0, the EQ settings ARE recorded. 2. AUX A: Routes channel signal to an external device like an effects processor. (PRE or POST fader depending on switch position. 3. AUX B: Controls level routed to internal effects processor or routes channel signal to an external device like an effects processor. When recording via USB 2.0, the AUX A and B signals are NOT recorded on the individual channels. They ARE recorded via the MAIN MIX channels. 4. PAN/BALANCE: Assigns the channel signal to any spot in the mono or stereo spectrum. When recording via USB 2.0, the MONO channels pan position is ignored when recording the individual channel but is captured when recording the MAIN MIX channels. The STEREO channels balance is captured by both the individual channel and the MAIN MIX channels. 5. PFL/SOLO: Allows the channel signal to be heard before being affected by the fader. 6. MUTE/ALT 3/4: Mutes the channel signal heard in the MAIN OUTPUT and routes the signal to the ALT 3/4 OUTPUT. These settings are ignored by the USB 2.0 individual channel outputs. 7. CHANNEL FADER: Controls the MAIN OUT (analog) and USB 2.0 (digital) signal level of the MIC or LINE inputs.

MASTER FEATURES

Note: It is recommended that the MULTIMIX USB 2.0 be turned off before connecting and disconnecting any sources to the inputs of the unit. However, do not turn off the MultiMix USB 2.0 once you have established a connection to the computer.
1. AUX RET A: Controls the signal level that returns from AUX A. 2. EFFECTS/AUX RET B: Controls the signal level of the internal effects or the level returning from AUX B if in use. 3. HDPH/CTRL RM: Controls the level that is sent to the PHONES or CTRL RM outputs. 4. SOLO MODE: Switches the solod channel signals from pre-fader to post-fader listen. 5. USB/2TK TO MIX: Routes the 2TK input as well as the stereo return from the computer to the MAIN faders. 6. MAIN MIX: Controls the level of the MAIN OUTPUTS. 7. ALT 3/4: Controls the level of the ALT 3/4 OUTPUTS. 8. ALT 3/4 TO MIX: Routes the ALT 3/4 signal to the MAIN MIX output. 9. USB/2TK SWITCH: Routes the 2TK input as well as the stereo return from the computer to the HDPH /CTRL RM output. 10. ALT 3/4 SWITCH: Routes the ALT 3/4 signal to the HDPH/CTRL RM output. 11. MIX SWITCH: Routes the MAIN MIX signal to the HDPH/CTRL RM output. 12. LED METERS: Monitors the audio signal level. 13. +48V LED: Indicates that the PHANTOM POWER is enabled for the MIC inputs.

RECORDING VIA USB 2.0

FEATURES OF MULTIMIX USB 2.0 RECORDING
The MultiMix USB2.0 allows you to record every individual channel to the computer, along with the main mix. The recorded signal is post-Gain, post-EQ and post-fader, which means that the settings you make to these controls will affect the recorded signal. Additionally, the balance set for the stereo channels will affect the recording. Note that, if you only plug a source into the LEFT input of one of the stereo channels, this source will be duplicated to the right channel. You can record at one of four different sample rates44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz, and 96kHz. A stereo return comes back from your computer to the mixer. Listen to this stereo signal by routing it using the USB/2TK buttons in the master section.
INSTALL THE SOFTWARE ON YOUR COMPUTER
If your computer has access to the Internet, point your browser to the Support/Downloads section of http://www.alesis.com. Its possible that updated drivers have been posted there since the time the software DVD included with your MultiMix was manufactured. Windows Before attaching your mixer to your computer, install the drivers either from the website or the software DVD. During the installation process, attach and re-attach your mixer as prompted by the install program. For each of the several installations that occur, click Continue Anyway if Windows warns you that the drivers have not passed Microsoft Logo Certification.
Windows Logo Certification warning. Ignore this warning by clicking Continue Anyway.
Macintosh Install the driver from the.dmg file. Wait to turn on/attach your MultiMix USB2.0 mixer to your Mac until after the Mac has fully booted. If you do not do so, your computer may not recognize the device. You must select the Alesis USB Audio Device via your Macs Audio MIDI Setup utility in order for your computer to route the MultiMix USB2.0s signals into and out of your computer applications properly.
CONNECT THE MULTIMIX USB 2.0 TO THE COMPUTER
Connect your microphones and line-level sources to the MultiMix USB 2.0 Connect your output devices - headphones or speakers, or both - to the MultiMix USB 2.0. Turn their volume down to zero Turn on the MultiMix USB 2.0 Connect the USB 2.0 cable to both the MultiMix USB 2.0 and your computer Turn your computer on
NOTE: If your computer "hangs" when following this procedure, turn off both the mixer and the computer. Try turning on the computer first. Turn on the MultiMix USB 2.0 only after your computer has completely booted up.
START YOUR COMPUTERS AUDIO RECORDING APPLICATION
Within the recording application, select the MultiMix USB 2.0 as the recording and playback device Adjust the MultiMix USB 2.0's sample rate and buffer sizes as appropriate Assign one or more MultiMix USB 2.0 inputs and begin recording Raise or lower the trim knobs and volume sliders on the MultiMix USB 2.0 to achieve a strong signal which does not distort (clip) Use the equalizer to sculpt the sound To record the signal along with the built-in effects or AUX bus effects, record the master fader signal. Individual channel signals include EQ but do not include effects On the MultiMix USB 2.0, assign the 2-TK output from the computer to the monitor mix Raise the monitoring level (headphones or monitor speakers) on the MultiMix USB 2.0 to listen back