D00835000A
DAW Control Surface / FireWire Audio-MIDI Interface
OWNER’S MANUAL
The following marking is located on the bottom of the unit:
CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT
REMOVE COVER (OR BACK). NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS
Ü
INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.
The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol, within an equilateral triangle, is intended to alert
the user to the presence of uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within the product’s enclosure
that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.
ÿ
Ÿ
The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the pres-
ence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature
accompanying the appliance.
This appliance has a serial number
located on the rear panel. Please record
the model number and serial number
and retain them for your records.
Model number
Serial number
WARNING: TO PREVENT FIRE OR SHOCK
HAZARD, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS
APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
Important Safety Instructions
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
Read these instructions.
Keep these instructions.
Head all warnings.
12 Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or
table specified by the manufacturer or sold with
the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution
when moving the cart/apparatus combination to
avoid injury from tip-over.
Follow all instructions.
Do not use this apparatus near water.
Clean only with dry cloth.
Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in
accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
8
9
Do not install near any heat sources such as radia-
tors, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus
(including amplifiers) that produce heat.
Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized
or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two
blades with one wider than the other. Grounding
type plug has two blades and a third grounding
prong. The wide blade or the third prong are pro-
vided for your safety. If the provided plug does not
fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for
replacement of the obsolete outlet.
13 Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or
when unused for long periods of time.
14 Refer all serving to qualified service personnel. Ser-
vicing is required when the apparatus has been
damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or
plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects
have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has
been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate
normally, or has been dropped.
10 Protect the power cord from being walked on or
pinched, particularly at plugs, convenience recep-
tacles, and the point where they exit from the
apparatus.
•
•
Do not expose this apparatus to drips or splashes.
Do not place any objects filled with liquids, such
as vases, on the apparatus.
11 Only use attachments/accessories specified by the
•
•
Do not install this apparatus in a confined space
such as a book case or similar unit.
The apparatus draws nominal non-operating
power from the AC outlet with its POWER switch
in the off position.
manufacturer.
TASCAM FW-1082 Owner’s Manual 3
Contents
Setting and checking clock rates ...............17
Computer Control Mode – (General
Setting the master fader to 0dB
Setting a channel’s monitor level to 0dB
Setting all monitor mix levels to 0dB (unity
Setting all mixer parameters to default
4 TASCAM FW-1082 Owner’s Manual
Contents
TASCAM FW-1082 Owner’s Manual 5
Table of Figures
Figure 5.1:Settings tab ......................................................................... 26
6 TASCAM FW-1082 Owner’s Manual
1 – Introduction
Overview
Thank you for choosing the TASCAM FW-1082. We
have designed the FW-1082 to be an all-in-one solu-
tion for your computer-based digital audio worksta-
tion system. Its integrated design incorporates a high-
resolution professional multi-channel audio interface
and integrated zero-latency input monitor mixer, a 2
x 2 MIDI interface, and a highly programmable,
ergonomically designed control surface for your
audio software.
high resolution, 24-bit audio front end for input and
output of your digital audio workstation. Its inte-
grated free-standing mixer provides the connectivity
you need for your entire studio, and it connects to
your Windows™ or MacOS™ computer with a single
FireWire™ connection.
Please take some time to look through this owner’s
manual and familiarize yourself with the FW-1082’s
features and operation. We suggest you pay particu-
lar attention to the operational notes for your soft-
ware application(s) of choice. You may also want to
refer to your software’s documentation in many
cases, for a clear understanding of how certain fea-
tures are integrated. Your experience with the FW-
1082 will be greatly enhanced by a good working
knowledge of your audio software.
The FW-1082 is designed to be the nerve center of
your digital audio environment. Its versatile control
surface features nine touch-sensitive motorized fad-
ers, transport and multi-function controls for direct,
immediate communication between your audio soft-
ware and you. Its full complement of analog mic and
line inputs and S/PDIF inputs and outputs provides a
Features
The audio input section is fully 24-bit and can
accommodate sample rates of up to 96 kHz. It is
capable of inputting up to ten simultaneous channels
of audio (eight analog and two S/PDIF digital) to
your computer. It features eight analog inputs, four
with professional quality microphone preamps and
switchable phantom power, as well as eight line
inputs and two analog channel inserts. Digital inputs
are available in an S/PDIF coaxial configuration.
The FW-1082 comes with a high-quality 6-pin to 6-
pin interface cable. We strongly suggest you use this
cable, or one of equal quality, for optimum audio per-
formance. We always recommend the use of a 6-pin
IEEE.1394 connector (not the 4-pin type) on your
computer.
The output section offers two balanced line level ana-
log outputs. A stereo S/PDIF coaxial digital output is
also featured.
The FW-1082’s control surface is intuitively
designed to integrate with all major digital audio
workstation software. Its nine touch-sensitive faders
respond instantly to your commands and update just
as quickly. Its transport controls, shuttle wheel and
generous array of application-dedicated switches
puts deep control of your audio software at your fin-
gertips.
The FW-1082 is supported under Windows XP and
Windows 2000, and MacOS X 10.2.8 (Jaguar) or
later. In addition, your computer must be fitted with a
6-pin IEEE.1394 (FireWire™) interface.
Figure 1.1: IEEE.1394 4-pin and 6-pin connectors
NOTE
The FW-1082 is supplied with a 2 m (6-foot) cable. If
you wish to use a longer cable, the length should not
be more than 4.5 m (15 feet) and the cable should be
the best possible quality available to avoid data loss,
which results in audio dropouts.
Some manufacturers may use a different nomenclature
to refer to their FireWire
“i.LINK”, or simply “1394”.)
™
connections, such as Sony’s
TASCAM FW-1082 Owner’s Manual 7
1 – Introduction
with power to the FW-1082 or computer turned on, this
may result in your computer crashing, or “freezing” and
possible loss of data.
NOTE
We strongly suggest that although a “daisy-chain” con-
nection is provided, that the FW-1082 is the only unit
connected to the FireWire port.
When turning the power of the FW-1082 on and off
when it is connected to the computer, turn on the
power before launching the DAW software, and quit
the software before turning off the FW-1082.
Always perform all FireWire connections and disconnec-
tions with the power to both the FW-1082 and the com-
puter turned off. If connections are made or broken
System Requirements
The FW-1082 is supported under Windows XP and
Windows 2000. The FW-1082 is not supported under
Windows 98 or Windows ME.
must be running SP1 and then install the supplied
Hotfix. Windows XP SP2 includes the Hotfix, so
there is no need to install it separately.
In the case of Windows 2000, you must be running
SP3 or SP4 and then install the supplied Hotfix. Win-
dows 2000 SP5 includes the Hotfix, so there is no
need to install it separately. For Windows XP, you
On the Mac, the FW-1082 is supported under Mac
OS X version 10.2.8 or later. Earlier versions of Mac-
intosh operating systems are not supported.
In The Box
The FW-1082’s box contains the items listed below.
When opening the package please be certain all the
items listed are included. If any items are missing,
please consult your TASCAM dealer.
• A CD-ROM containing the driver and utility soft-
ware and documentation for the FW-1082 (Win-
dows and Mac compatible).
• A second CD-ROM containing the Cubase LE
application.
• FW-1082
• This manual
• AC power adapter (PS-1225B) and cable
• IEEE 1394 6-pin to 6-pin cable
• The Setup Guide
• Warranty card.
Nomenclature used in the manual
Within this manual, the following typographic con-
ventions are used:
• The names of keys to be pressed on the computer
keyboard are written in this typeface with square
brackets enclosing them [F1].
• The name of a control or connector on the unit is
written in the following way: LINE/MIC.
• Keys that are to be pressed together are joined by a
+ symbol, so that [Ctrl]+[F1] means “press and
hold the Control key and press the F1 key”.
• The name of a control or connector on another unit
is written in the following way: AUX IN.
• When referring to the screen display of the host
computer, we refer to any prompts, messages, etc.
in the following typeface: Press any key to
continue.
• Whenever we refer to the software application to
control and set up the FW-1082, we refer to it as
the “Control Panel” or the “software Control
Panel”.
• There are three control surface modes. These are
written in this manual as follows, to match the
labels of the respective mode keys: COMPUTER
(DAW control, etc.), MIDI CTRL (MIDI control) and
MON MIX (monitor mixer).
• If you have to type something into the computer,
we write it this way: FILENAME.EXT.
8 TASCAM FW-1082 Owner’s Manual
1 – Introduction
Software application notes
Since much of the FW-1082’s operation pertains
directly to your DAW software, TASCAM has pre-
pared a series of application notes on using the FW-
1082 with a number of different DAW programs.
These Application Notes are included on the FW-
1082 CD-ROM, and are available online in PDF for-
mat on the TASCAM Web site.
Reader (version 4 or above), available for free down-
Since software applications and operating systems
often evolve and develop after their initial release, we
suggest you check the TASCAM site regularly for
updated information. It’s also a good idea to check
your software manufacturer’s Web site regularly, for
information and version updates.
To read them, you will need an application capable of
displaying PDF files, such as the Adobe Acrobat
Special notes for touch-sensitive faders
The usual rules regarding precision electronic equip-
ment naturally apply to the FW-1082. In addition,
note the following that apply to the touch-sensitive
faders:
The humidity and temperature of your environment
affects the touch-sensitivity of the faders. Under nor-
mal working conditions you should experience no
issues. However, extremes of temperature and/or
humidity may sometimes cause operational prob-
lems.
The faders need a human finger to operate their
touch-sensitivity. Do not use a pencil, ruler, etc. to
operate them. Even using your fingernails may not
activate the touch-sensitivity.
Copyright, etc.
Windows, Windows XP, and Windows 2000 are
trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
HUI and Mackie CONTROL are trademarks of
LOUD Technologies Inc.
Macintosh, MacOS, MacOS X and FireWire™ are
trademarks of Apple Computer.
All other trademarks are the property of their respec-
tive holders.
i.LINK is a trademark of Sony Corporation.
TASCAM FW-1082 Owner’s Manual 9
2 – Parts of the FW-1082
Front Panel
The FW-1082 front panel may be conveniently
grouped into logical areas as shown in Figure 2.1.
Note that the functions of some of these controls may
change as the control mode changes.
See “Control Surface Modes” on page 16 for details
of these different modes and how to set them:
Encoders and
controls
Input section
Monitoring
and indicators
Mode
controls
Channel controls
DAW transport
controls
Figure 2.1: Front panel features
Input section
The analog input section of the FW-1082.
(this level is adjustable between 0.0dBFS and
5.0dBFS, in 0.5dB increments, using the FW-1082’s
software Control Panel). When one of these indica-
tors lights, it indicates an overloaded input—reduce
the level of the input to the channel until the indicator
goes out.
TRIM controls Analog level controls for the input
level of the mic (XLR) input 1 through 4, and line
inputs 1 through 8. Their function is the same regard-
less of the control surface mode selected. Note that
the best signal-to-noise ratios are achieved by maxi-
mizing the level of analog inputs at the A/D convert-
ers. For the mic and line inputs of the FW-1082, the
trim controls provide the means for optimizing these
levels.
Signal indicators The SIGNAL indicators light to
indicate the presence of an audio signal at the corre-
sponding analog input.
These indicators and the OL indicators indicate sig-
nal levels to the eight analog inputs regardless of the
control surface mode selected.
OL indicators The OL indicators light to indicate
a signal peaking at –2.5dBFS or higher by default
10 TASCAM FW-1082 Owner’s Manual
2 – Parts of the FW-1082
Channel controls
These controls control the channels of the FW-1082.
The exact use depends on the mode currently
selected.
In MON MIX mode, the MUTE keys’ function is iden-
tical, but only affecting the monitor mix.
In MIDI CTRL mode, these keys send out specific con-
troller commands.
REC indicators In COMPUTER mode, depending
on the DAW application, these indicators light to
indicate the track record status (armed or recording).
In MON MIX mode, they are used to show pan status
page 23).
Channel Faders In COMPUTER mode, the channel
faders send continuous controller information to
banks of eight channels in the host application’s soft-
ware mixer. The current bank is selected using the
BANK keys.
SEL keys The SEL keys are used in COMPUTER
mode to select the DAW channels if the faders are not
used for this purpose.
In MON MIX mode, the channel faders control the
monitor level of the audio inputs, as selected by the
BANK keys:
They are also used in this mode to set the record sta-
tus of the channel, in conjunction with the REC key.
Bank 1: analog inputs
Bank 2: S/PDIF inputs—channels 1 and 2 only.
Channels 3-8 are inactive.
• Press and hold the REC key and press the SEL key
of a channel to arm or disarm it.
NOTE
In MON MIX mode, pressing a channel’s SEL key
causes the REC indicators to show the selected chan-
nel’s pan position. Indicator 1 is lit with pan position
at full left, indicator 8 is lit at hard right, indicators 4
and 5 are lit together when panned center, etc.).
The faders do not affect the level of the signal sent to
the host computer.
In MIDI CTRL mode, the channel faders send out con-
tinuous MIDI controller commands.
In MIDI CTRL mode, these keys send out specific con-
troller commands.
REC key In COMPUTER mode, press and hold this
key and press a channel’s SEL key to arm or un-arm
a DAW track for recording. The channel’s REC indi-
cator will light or flash, depending on the DAW
application. Consult the Application Notes for
details.
Channel SOLO keys – In COMPUTER mode,
these keys solo their respective channels, while mut-
ing the audio on all other channels in the host appli-
cation. Any number of channels can be soloed
simultaneously. Note that in COMPUTER mode, the
operation of the solo function is dictated by the host
application. For more information please refer to the
Application Notes for your DAW software applica-
tion.
MASTER fader The MASTER fader is a global
control, functioning in the same manner regardless of
the selected control mode. Movements of the master
fader always simultaneously affect the host com-
puter, the MIDI control surface and the monitor
mixer. There is always one and only one master fader
for the entire system.
In MON MIX mode, the SOLO keys’ function is iden-
tical, but here they only affect the FW-1082’s built-in
monitor mixer.
Additionally, the MASTER fader can control the level
of the analog outputs. A setting in the FW-1082 Con-
trol Panel determines whether output directed to the
analog L-R is passed through to the outputs at unity
gain, or whether the MASTER Fader gain is applied
to the analog output signals.
In MIDI CTRL mode, these keys send out specific con-
troller commands.
Channel MUTE keys In COMPUTER mode, these
keys mute the audio of the selected channel. Any
number of channels can be muted simultaneously.
on page 26 for details.
TASCAM FW-1082 Owner’s Manual 11
2 – Parts of the FW-1082
Encoders and controls
selected channel. The indicators light to show the
selected encoder mode.
Encoders The four encoders are used in COMPUTER
mode to make EQ settings, adjust aux send levels,
etc.
In the MIDI CTRL mode they send out MIDI
messages.
Up to four EQ bands, with gain, frequency and Q set-
tings for each band, and eight aux send levels of the
selected DAW channel can be controlled, depending
on the DAW software. See the Application Notes for
details.
When pressed in MON MIX mode, the EQ/PAN key
selects the FW-1082 itself as the word sync source
for the system (INTERNAL) and the AUX 1–4 key
selects the digital input as the word sync source (D
IN).
In MON MIX mode, the PAN encoder acts as a pan
control for the selected channel. The other encoders
have no function.
EQ band keys (with indicators) In COM-
PUTER mode, when the EQ/PAN encoder mode is
active, these keys are used to select the EQ band
affected by the encoders.
In MIDI CTRL mode, the encoders send out continuous
MIDI controller commands.
When used in MON MIX mode, they are used to select
the sampling frequency when the FW-1082 is used as
the word sync source for the system.
Encoder mode keys and indicators These
keys are used in COMPUTER mode to select the basic
function of the encoders: either as EQ and pan con-
trollers (from the top, gain, frequency, Q and pan) for
the selected channel, as aux sends 1 through 4 for the
selected channel, or as aux sends 5 through 8 for the
In the MIDI CTRL mode they send out MIDI
messages.
Monitoring and indicators
PHANTOM This indicator lights when phantom
power is switched on for the microphone jacks.
D IN This indicator lights when a valid clock signal
is received at the digital input.
WARNING
MONITOR This analog control affects the level of
the signal sent from the balanced 1/4" MONITOR
(BAL) outputs.
Microphones should not be connected to or discon-
nected from the FW-1082 with phantom power
switched on.
PHONES This analog control affects the level of the
signal sent from the stereo PHONES jack.
Unbalanced dynamic microphones should never be con-
nected to phantom-powered connectors.
MIDI IN and OUT indicators These light
momentarily when MIDI activity is detected on the
appropriate port(s). These indicators function inde-
pendently of the control mode.
FireWire This indicator lights when a valid
IEEE.1394 (FireWire) connection is made between
the FW-1082 and the host computer.
CLOCK This indicator lights when the internal clock
is locked to the selected sampling frequency.
Mode controls
CONTROL PANEL key Brings up the software
SHIFT key This key is used to modify the behavior
of other keys. See the Application Notes for details of
how this key works with your particular DAW.
Control Panel on the host computer.
COMPUTER & MIDI CTRL keys Select either
the COMPUTER control (DAW control) or MIDI con-
troller mode (MIDI CTRL).
MONITOR/function keys In MON MIX mode,
these keys determine which signals are monitored
(the right hand key of this group is not actually a
selection key, but returns the master to unity gain).
MON MIX key Selects the monitor mix mode.
What is monitored and mixed is decided by the keys
described below.
12 TASCAM FW-1082 Owner’s Manual
2 – Parts of the FW-1082
In COMPUTER mode, they send messages to the DAW
application. The exact message and the interpretation
depend on the application. Also note that these keys
can be SHIFTed to provide another four function
keys.
In MIDI CTRL mode, they typically send MIDI mes-
sages.
DAW transport controls
These controls have no meaning in MON MIX mode
(except for the BANK keys). In MIDI CTRL mode, they
typically send MIDI messages.
In MON MIX mode, the keys are used to select, and the
first two indicators show, whether the incoming ana-
log (ANLG) or digital inputs (D IN) signals are being
monitored.
In COMPUTER mode, the exact function of these keys
is determined by the DAW application. Typical uses
are described here.
In MIDI CTRL mode, they are used to shift through the
“banks” of MIDI controllers provided by the FW-
1082.
Arrow (cursor) keys Cursor keys for navigation
around the screen.
LOCATE keys, SET, IN and OUT keys Typi-
cally used to locate to preset location points, to set
location points, and to set the punch points within a
DAW application.
Dial and SHTL (shuttle) key/indicator Typi-
cally used as scrub wheel, or shuttle (with indicator
lit).
Transport keys and indicators Used to con-
trol and show the status of a DAW’s transport func-
tions.
BANK selection keys and indicators In
computer mode, select different banks of eight chan-
nels. The indicators light to give an indication of the
currently-selected bank.
Rear panel
Monitoring and
phones
Line inputs and inserts
MIDI I/O
Digital
audio I/O
Mic inputs and phantom
power switch
Power jack and
switch
IEEE.1394
(FireWire)
ports
Foot switch
jack
Figure 2.2: Rear panel features
TASCAM FW-1082 Owner’s Manual 13
2 – Parts of the FW-1082
Line inputs and inserts
nal chain for inputs 1 and 2 (mic or line). The insert
point is placed between the input (after the mic/line
trim) and the analog-to-digital converter. A standard
insert’Y’-cable with a TRS plug is required. Check
with your music retailer.
LINE IN jacks Balanced line level (+4 dBu) ¼"
TRS (tip = hot, ring = cold, sleeve = ground) analog
inputs. Inputs 1 through 4 are wired in parallel with
their associated mic inputs. Only connect a line
source or a microphone to these pairs of inputs. Do
not connect a line source and a microphone to the
same input pair at the same time.
GUITAR/LINE switch Affects LINE IN 8 only.
When this is set to GUITAR, the input impedance
then matches that of an electric guitar or passive bass.
For all other instruments, leave this in the LINE posi-
tion.
INSERT 1 & 2 Individual channel inserts. These
are ¼" TRS (tip = send, ring = receive, sleeve =
ground) jacks which allow you to insert an external
processor, such as an analog compressor, into the sig-
Mic inputs and phantom power switch
MIC (1 through 4) These XLR connectors (1 =
ground, 2 = hot, 3 = cold) are connected to high-qual-
ity internal microphone pre-amplifiers.
PHANTOM (+48V) switch Use this to switch
+48V phantom power to the microphone jacks.
WARNING
These connectors are wired in parallel with the corre-
spondingly-numbered LINE IN jacks. Only connect a
line source or a microphone to these pairs of inputs.
Do not connect a line source and a microphone to the
same input pair at the same time.
Microphones should not be connected to or discon-
nected from the FW-1082 with phantom power
switched on.
Unbalanced dynamic microphones should never be con-
nected to phantom-powered connectors.
Foot switch jack (FOOT SW)
Accommodates a standard momentary foot switch
through a ¼" jack.
FireWire (IEEE.1394) ports Use one of these
ports to connect the FW-1082 to the host computer,
providing audio, MIDI and control surface communi-
cation. Either port may be used to connect the FW-
1082 to your computer
COAXIAL Digital audio I/O (IN and OUT)
S/PDIF coaxial digital input and output using RCA
(pin) connectors.
You can configure these on the software Control
Panel to act as additional inputs and outputs.
MIDI I/O
Two MIDI IN and two MIDI OUT connectors allow
you to hook up MIDI controllers, etc. as well as
external tone generator modules, etc.
Monitoring and phones
PHONES jack Headphone level output from a ste-
reo 1/4” jack.
MONITOR (BAL) Outputs L & R Two bal-
anced +4 dBU line-level ouputs on ¼” TRS jacks (tip
= hot, ring = cold, sleeve = ground).
14 TASCAM FW-1082 Owner’s Manual
2 – Parts of the FW-1082
POWER jack and switch
Connect only the power adapter supplied with your
FW-1082 to this jack.
WARNING
The FW-1082 outputs produce a “thump” when the
power is turned on.
Make sure the switch is off when making the power
connection.
To avoid any damage to hearing or equipment, turn the
volume of the monitoring system down, or make sure it
is turned off, and do not wear headphones connected
to the FW-1082 when powering the unit up or down.
TASCAM FW-1082 Owner’s Manual 15
3 – Functional Overview
Control Surface Modes
The FW-1082 control surface is extremely versatile,
and can be used to control a computer application, to
control an audio input monitor mix, and to send
MIDI messages to external devices via its MIDI out-
puts or to soft synthesizers, etc. through its two vir-
tual MIDI ports.
One and only one of these keys may be selected and
lit at one time. Pressing one of these keys activates its
mode and lights the key.
The FW-1082’s control surface is always in one of
three modes: computer control mode (COMPUTER),
MIDI controller mode (MIDI CTRL) or monitor mix
mode (MON MIX). Each mode has a dedicated illumi-
nated key, labeled COMPUTER, MIDI CTRL, and
MON MIX, respectively.
Figure 3.1: Mode selection keys
For more information on Control Surface modes, you
should refer to section 4, “Control Surface Modes
your software.
Global Controls
Certain controls operate globally; that is, they func-
tion the same way regardless of which control sur-
face mode is selected. These controls are:
CONTROL SURFACE MODE keys – These
three keys are used to select the current control sur-
face mode. This is their only function. Only one con-
trol surface mode (and hence only one key) can be
selected at a time.
MASTER FADER – Any movement of the master
fader is always communicated to the host computer,
the MIDI control surface and the monitor mixer.
There is always one, and only one master fader for
the entire system.
CONTROL PANEL key – This key always opens
the FW-1082 control panel on the host computer,
assuming it is connected and powered on.
“Hidden” global function
The following function is not printed on the control
surface panel, but is available in all modes.
SHIFT+MIDI CTRL
Enters MIDI Programming mode if host computer is
attached.
Dedicated Computer Controls
Some surface controls are computer-dedicated; that
is, they always send a MIDI data signal to the host
computer (assuming it is connected), regardless of
which control surface mode is currently selected.
These controls are:
• Dial and SHTL (shuttle) key
• Cursor keys
• m LOCATE ,, SET, IN and OUT keys
• SHIFT key
• CONTROL PANEL key
The footswitch jack also communicates with the host
computer at all times. If you have a footswitch device
• Transport keys (STOP, PLAY, REW, F FWD,
RECORD)
16 TASCAM FW-1082 Owner’s Manual
3 – Functional Overview
connected to this jack, activating it will always send a
command to the host computer.
Note that in MIDI CTRL mode these controls also send
programmable MIDI messages to the FW-1082’s
physical and virtual MIDI outputs.
Dedicated Modifier Keys
There is a dedicated modifier key on the FW-1082’s
control surface: the SHIFT key. This key has no effect
when pressed alone.
These functions are chiefly dictated by the host
application software.
In most DAW applications, pressing and holding the
REC key and then pressing a channel’s SEL key will
generally arm the selected track(s) for recording.
However, you can press and hold it to modify the
functions of a number of other keys when pressed
together with it.
Setting and checking clock rates
The FW-1082’s audio clock rate and source can be
checked or changed directly from the control surface.
current clock settings. Note that these keys have no
meaning in MON MIX mode other than clock settings.
The software Control Panel can also be used to do
WARNING
The FW-1082 outputs produce a “thump” when the
power is turned on. To avoid any damage to hearing or
equipment, turn the volume of the monitoring system
down, or make sure it is turned off, and do not wear
headphones connected to the FW-1082 when powering
the unit up or down.
1
Put the FW-1082 into MON MIX mode by press-
ing the MON MIX key which then lights.
2
Press one of the clock rate keys to select the
sampling frequency:
• 96kHz (EQ HI–AUX 1/5)
• 88.2kHz (EQ HI MID–AUX 2/6)
• 48kHz (EQ LO MID–AUX 3/7)
• 44.1 kHz (EQ LOW MID–AUX 4/8)
Figure 3.2: Clock keys and indicators
Expected Sample Rate If the S/PDIF input is
selected as the clock source and it does not have a
usable clock signal, the CLOCK indicator flashes to
indicate a problem, and the unit switches to its own
internal clock and waits for a valid clock signal. If
the sample rate is off by 3% or more, the FW-1082
switches to the incoming clock, and the nearest sam-
ple rate indicator blinks slowly.
3
Press either of the clock source keys:
• INTERNAL (EQ/PAN) – Internal Clock
• D IN (AUX1–4) – S/PDIF Input
When the FW-1082 is in MON MIX mode, these rate
and source keys and indicators light to display the
TASCAM FW-1082 Owner’s Manual 17
4 – Control Surface Modes and Operation
As mentioned in “Functional Overview” on page 16,
the FW-1082’s control surface functions in three dif-
ferent control modes: computer control mode, MIDI
controller mode or monitor mix mode. While all
three modes share certain global functions, each
mode is quite different in its functionality and focus.
• For example, a control surface plug-in may use the
bank switches to navigate between 4 sets of 8 fad-
ers so that you can manage the settings of a 32-
input mixer defined within the software.
In MIDI CTRL mode there are always four banks of
user-defined messages. Refer to “MIDI Control
Mode – (General Notes)” on page 20, for more
details.
Bank Switch Behavior Each mode has a dedi-
cated illuminated key, labeled COMPUTER, MIDI
CTRL, and MON MIX, respectively. Only one of these
keys may be selected and illuminated at one time.
Pressing one of these keys activates its designated
mode and lights the key.
In MON MIX mode there are two banks which corre-
spond to different groups of FW-1082 audio inputs.
Each control surface mode recalls its most recently
selected bank when you return to it. For example, if
you have bank 2 selected in MIDI CTRL mode, and
switch to COMPUTER control mode where bank 1 is
selected, when you next return to MIDI CTRL mode,
bank 2 will be selected.
In COMPUTER mode, the host application interprets
the banking keypresses and sends bank indicator
information back to the FW-1082. Therefore, the
function of the BANK indicators is application-
specific.
Figure 4.1: BANK keys and indicators
Computer Control Mode – (General Notes)
As its name implies, the COMPUTER control mode is
designed to communicate with the host computer, to
control your Digital Audio Workstation (DAW)
application software. When the FW-1082 is in this
mode, fader and encoder movements and all key-
presses are transmitted to the host computer and
interpreted by the host application software (with the
exception of certain global keys like control surface
mode controls).
In COMPUTER mode, the FW-1082 can communicate
with the host computer in a number of different pro-
tocols (e.g. Native Mode, Mackie Control Emulation
Mode, etc.). General details of each of these modes
can be found in the sections which follow. For more
specific details refer to the Application Notes for
your software.
For correct operation, it is important to use the con-
trol mode designed to work with your DAW, as
described in the Application Notes. We recommend
you check the TASCAM Web site for current infor-
mation and support status.
In addition, the host computer can send information
back to the FW-1082 to update fader positions and
light LEDs.
Native Protocol
Native Protocol is the FW-1082’s default control sur-
face mode. In this mode, the FW-1082’s controls
transmit MIDI messages as detailed in the documen-
tation on the CD-ROM.
Select Native protocol when using the FW-1082 to
control applications with native support and a sepa-
rately-installed software plug-in; these include Cake-
walk SONAR, MOTU Digital Performer and others.
18 TASCAM FW-1082 Owner’s Manual
4 – Control Surface Modes and Operation
To set the FW-1082 to Native protocol:
3
In the drop-down Control Protocolmenu,
select FW-1082 NATIVE.
1
2
Open the FW-1082 Control Panel
Select the Settingstab
Figure 4.2: Selecting Native Mode protocol
For more detailed information on specific implemen-
tation within the host application, please refer to the
Application Notes for your software of choice.
Mackie Emulation Protocol
The FW-1082 can be used to emulate the control
messages sent by the Mackie Control™.
3
In the drop-down Control Protocollist,
select Mackie Control Emulation.
When in Mackie Control Emulation mode, the audio
and MIDI functionality of the FW-1082 are
unchanged, but the MIDI messages transmitted and
recognized by most of the control surface are
changed to closely pattern those of the Mackie Con-
trol.
This enables you to use the FW-1082 with software
applications which may not yet directly support the
FW-1082’s Native Mode, but do support the Mackie
Control.
To set up FW-1082 to the Mackie Emulation
protocol:
Figure 4.3: Selecting Mackie Control emulation
protocol
1
2
Open the FW-1082 Control Panel
Select the Settingstab
For detailed information on how the FW-1082’s con-
trol surface maps to controls within specific applica-
tions, please refer to the Application Notes for the
corresponding application .
HUI Emulation Protocol
The FW-1082 can be used to emulate the control
messages sent by the Mackie HUI™ (Human User
Interface).
those of the Mackie HUI. This enables you to use the
FW-1082 with software applications which may not
yet directly support the FW-1082’s Native mode, but
do support the HUI.
When in HUI emulation mode, the audio and MIDI
functionality of the FW-1082 are unchanged, but the
MIDI messages transmitted and recognized by most
of the control surface are changed to closely pattern
To set up the FW-1082 in HUI emulation protocol:
1
Open the FW-1082 Control Panel
TASCAM FW-1082 Owner’s Manual 19
4 – Control Surface Modes and Operation
2
3
Select the Settingstab
For detailed information on how the FW-1082’s con-
trol surface maps to controls within specific applica-
tions, please refer to the Application Notes for the
corresponding application.
In the drop-down Control Protocolmenu,
select HUI Emulation.
Figure 4.4: Selecting HUI emulation protocol
MIDI Control Mode – (General Notes)
In MIDI CTRL mode, the FW-1082’s keys, encoders
and faders can be used to control external MIDI
devices by transmitting MIDI messages to its two
physical MIDI outputs and two virtual MIDI outputs
(transmitted through the FireWire cable to the
computer).
The FW-1082’s MIDI control messages are pre-pro-
grammed, as described in the documentation on the
CD-ROM. However, you can reprogram any or all of
the controls and customize them for your particular
MIDI setup.
• Reprogram them through the FW-1082 Control
In this mode there are four banks, which you can
switch between using the h BANK y keys. With
the exception of the master fader, each of the four
banks can represent a separate and independent layer
of channel faders, encoders and keys. The master
fader is global to all banks and all control surface
modes.
Panel, under the MIDI Programmingtab.
TIP
Press and hold the FW-1082’s SHIFT+F3 keys to reset
the MIDI surface programming assignments to the fac-
tory default settings and write them to memory. The
FW-1082 must not be in MIDI Programming mode when
you perform this reset.
In this mode, most of the FW-1082’s surface controls
can be programmed to send out messages.
NOTE
Some controls are dedicated computer controls, mean-
ing that they always transmit a signal to the host com-
puter, even in MIDI CTRL mode. These controls are:
TIP
Pressing and holding the SHIFT key and turning an
encoder will result in fine control of the parameter
being controlled. Non-shifted encoders provide fast
coarse control of parameters.
• Transport keys (STOP, PLAY, REW, F FWD,
RECORD)
• Dial and SHTL (shuttle) key
• Cursor keys
The following keys cannot be programmed:
• m LOCATE ,, SET, IN and OUT keys
• CONTROL PANEL
• SHIFT
• SHIFT
• REC
• CONTROL PANEL
Unless you are an experienced MIDI programmer, we
recommend you exercise caution in assigning MIDI
functions to these keys which could cause potential
operational conflicts.
In addition, note that the eight channel strip controls
(FADER, MUTE, SOLO, and SEL) are all bankable;
that is, each of these controls is capable of sending
four separate control messages, depending on which
bank is selected with the BANK keys.
20 TASCAM FW-1082 Owner’s Manual
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