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Multiple ADAT-XT Operation: Chapter 5
ADAT XT Reference Manual 55
CHAPTER 5
MULTIPLE ADAT-XT
O
PERATION
OVERVIEW
By itself, a single XT provides a lot of flexibility. However, in a multiple ADAT system
presents a whole new set of possibilities. Keep in mind that since the XT is an ADAT-
compatible machine, you can intermingle any number of XTs and ADATs together—
up to 16 machines total for 128 tracks (see the section entitled
Combining XTs and
ADATs
on page 63). When linking multiple XTs and/or ADATs together, the first
ADAT in the chain is referred to as the “master”, and the rest are called “slaves”.
Each slave is locked to the master, and relies on the time reference from the master
machine to keep the system synchronized.
Connections are easy to make; one 9 pin D connector for each slave. A slave will
automatically detect a master and go into slave mode.
INPUT
OUTPUT
INPUT
OUTPUT
Using the 8-channel proprietary digital bus, you can also bounce tracks between
machines in the digital realm. Not only does this result in a perfect copy, but one that
is perfectly synchronized with the original. This means you can make perfect safety
backups and archives of recordings. One creative way of using a multiple ADAT
system (though it can be done with just one XT) is to dedicate two tracks of one
machine for stereo mix-down. Since these mix tracks are always in sync with the rest
of the system, you can execute a seamless punch at any time. For example, you
could mix-down different sections of a recording independent from one another,
making changes in the mix as you go along.
Each slave XT can have its own tape offset, with respect to the master machine.
Combine this feature with the ability to bounce tracks in the digital domain, and you
have the ability to perform cut-and-paste style assembly editing.
SYNCHRONIZING MACHINES