Metric Halo LIO-8/4p mkIV Modem Audio Interface  From Metric Halo

LIO-8/4p mk IV

Each LIO-8/4p mkIV integrates:

• Mastering grade A/D Conversion (8 channels)

• Mastering grade D/A Conversion with analog domain monitor control (8 channels)

• Mastering grade headphone output with dedicated D/A Conversion

• Exceptional ultra-high impedance Guitar/Bass DI inputs (2 channels; shared with Analog 1+2)

• AES I/O (8 Channels)

• All I/O supports 192k

• SMPTE LTC I/O

• MIDI I/O

• 128 Channel x 64 bus mixer (up to 192k)

• Instantiable DSP processing with over 100 plugins

• Integrated analog domain surround-capable Monitor Controller

• Incredibly accurate DPLL clock with ultra-low jitter

• Seamless hardware multi-unit unification over MHLink (mixer, routing and transport)

• MH EdgeBus Card slot with support for AES/SPDIF/MADI/ADAT/TOSLINK/MIDI (depending on card)

• Internal slots for optional MH ULN-R preamps (in 4 channel blocks)

• SMUX support for ADAT and MADI

• IR Remote Control support

• Front panel metering and control with dedicated gain knobs

• Bullet-proof recording with the integrated Record Panel

• MIO Console 3d

• MHLink Ethernet connectivity

• USB-C connectivity

A/D/A Conversion

Audio converters stand at the heart of every digital audio product. If the conversion is not up to snuff, you might as well toss the product out the window -- as the best you can hope for is that it doesn’t damage your precious audio (or reputation) too much. No matter how good the DSP is, if your converters don’t capture (or render) your audio accurately you are starting at a deficit.

Audio conversion is something that is more than the sum of its parts. You can’t simply look at the converter chip and determine how something is going to sound. Excellent audio conversion requires careful attention to detail and the tuning of every element of the entire conversion system; this includes the analog front end, the power system, the clock and the converter chip itself. As all of these interact with each other in nonlinear ways, it is the system that determines the performance, and not any of the individual parts. As any system can be no better than it’s weakest link, it is vitally important that the component you use to capture and render all of your audio is not the weakest link in your system.

StackNewThe analog converters in the LIO-8/4p provide mastering grade conversion that “simply gets out of the way.” Metric Halo’s converter philosophy is to come as close to the original analog signal as possible; converters should not color your signal. By accurately reproducing your input, the LIO-8/4p allows you to properly capture the nuance of your sources, whether they be mics, tape decks or classic analog gear.

Accurate conversion means that when you monitor your production, you actually hear what you will deliver - not some approximation with euphonic distortions introduced by your monitoring chain. And if you add euphonic distortion with an analog loop, you can be sure that the results will be captured accurately. In other words, the LIO-8/4p doesn’t distort the distortion. You choose where and when your signal is processed.

The A/D/A converters in the LIO-8/4p are DC-coupled to the analog I/O stages so they introduce extremely low phase distortion. The D/A has no low-frequency filtering and may be used to drive DC signals for generating CV signals for analog synths. The A/D converters have an extremely low frequency DC blocking filter that calibrates the input path and removes DC offset, so they cannot be used to capture DC CV signals, but the integrated EdgeCard slot may be used to add a wealth of ADAT connectivity to the LIO-8, which can be used to drive dedicated third-party CV converters.

Monitoring

Monitoring is critical to the production process at every stage; you need to be able hear exactly what you are working on. Your monitor chain will be limited by the weakest link in the chain. The LIO-8/4p integrates a transparent digitally controlled analog-domain monitor controller to ensure that you can connect directly to your reproduction chain without having to reduce the fidelity of your signal with an inferior monitor control system.

The Monitor Controller in the LIO-8/4p provides sophisticated monitor control features that are only available in dedicated monitor controllers that paradoxically cost more than the LIO-8/4p. These features include:

• Multiple source selection

• Multiple speaker output selection

• Shared speaker set support

• Per speaker gain and delay

• Per speaker solo/mute control

• Output path calibration support

• Multichannel support from Stereo up to 7.1.4 Surround (Dolby Atmos®)

• Mono fold-down

• Mute and Dim

• Analog domain gain control

• Talkback

• Listenback

• Multiple cue output support

• PFL/AFL integration with the mixer

In addition to all these high-end features, the MH Monitor Controller provides unique support for per-output-path configurable signal processing including EQ, Bass Management and protective limiting. Each output path can have its own signal processing, even if the paths share speakers. This allows you to configure alternate monitoring setups with one monitoring system (for example, you could configure the signal processing to provide a band-limited monitoring path or a path that lacks subwoofer reinforcement).

Each LIO-8/4p includes a high quality headphone amplifier with dedicated D/A conversion (which is the same quality as the primary D/A’s in the system), and digitally controlled analog domain gain control. So you don’t need to add a headphone amp to your system. By default the headphones are configured as a parallel Cue output mult’ed from the Monitor Controller, but you can drive the headphones with an independent mix or you can make them an alternate output for the monitor controller.

Cue Control

In addition to monitoring the mix in your control room, multitrack production requires providing multiple output cues to performers and other stakeholders (such as producers and/or broadcast feeds).

The Monitor Control in 3d is enhanced by a sophisticated Output Cue section that provides you with an arbitrary number of output controls. Each cue can be driven from any of the busses in the system, or it can be set to derive its input from the currently selected source in the Monitor Controller (MC).

Since each Cue can be driven by a separate mix bus from the mixer, they are perfect for routing and controlling independent headphone mixes for individual performers.

Cues can be configured to listen to PFL/AFL (or not). So for producers and engineers, the cue can follow PFL/AFL Solo in the mixer while performer and broadcast cues are unaffected by soloing.

Each cue has an independent output path which can be set to any of the MC supported output types. Each cue controller uses the MC engine for its control of routing, gain, delay and output graph processing, so it can do all the things the MC can do.

Cues are not Mixes. Cues are output points with gain and routing controls that can be fed by specific mixes, the current monitor controller source, or a mix of a source and the talkback signal. They serve as named output mults with direct access to associated output gain controls.

Cues form the basis of the routing points for Talkback and Listenback.

Talkback provides the ability to route a specific input to any sub-set of the cues in the system; it also allows you to control the amount that the Cue source signal is dimmed when talkback is active. The Talkback signal is mixed with the selected source.

Listenback provides the ability to route the source that the engineer is currently monitoring through the MC to any sub-set of the cues in the system. This allows playing back a mix of the take to any or all of the monitoring cues in the system without having to re-patch.

Optional Preamps

The LIO-8 3d includes internal slots for up to 8 channels of Metric Halo’s renowned ULN-R preamps. These boutique preamps are famous for their pristine, low-distortion, completely unveiled sound. They are not just great for preamps on an interface; they are great preamps, full-stop.

You can add preamps to the LIO-8/4p in blocks of 4 channels.

The ULN-R preamp provides up to 90 dB of digitally controlled analog gain in precisely recallable 0.5 dB steps. Each input supports independently switchable P48 phantom power.

The combination of the super transparent ULN-R preamp and Metric Halo’s exclusive insertable Character Component Modeling Processing provides flexibility and sound quality that’s unavailable on any other interface. You can transition from a wire-with-gain pre to a gooey tube pre or anything in between; every input can have the right Character for the sound you desire.

Character is also available on all inputs, busses and outputs - even channels without preamps.

The preamp input path on the LIO-8/4p always has preamp gain control and has DC blocking for the phantom power, it also supports input levels of up to +20dBu with no fidelity reducing pads, so you can handle high SPL with sensitive mics as well as you can handle extremely low SPL with insensitive mics (like ribbon mics and low output dynamics).

In all cases the input noise of the mic pre is incredibly low, providing an EIN of -130.50 dBu (@ 60dB of gain) with a mic that has a 150 Ω source impedance.

With the preamps installed, the high maximum input level of +20dBu also means that you can use the mic pre input path as an alternative line input path. This feature can be used with the monitor controller to access an additional 8 selectable analog inputs as external sources.

The LIO-8 3d input path features an integrated analog send (pre A/D converter) which allows the unit to be used as remote controlled analog preamp. The preamps also offer a send/return mode where the amplified signal from the preamp is sent to the analog send and the line input is used for the return to the A/D converter - this allows you to patch analog domain processing between the preamp and the converter. Finally, you can use the analog send to provide the pre-amplified signal to a backup recording or mixing system; this is a fully analog split that represents a true backup signal with no digital dependencies. 

Processing

ULN-8 3d includes sophisticated digital signal processing engine that is only limited by your imagination. The mixing engine and audio router built into each unit is capable of mixing 128 inputs to 64 busses at all sample rates (up to 192k) with every gain interpolated on a sample-by-sample basis. This custom dedicated mix engine utilizes the equivalent DSP power of 30 of the SHARC DSPs that were used in our previous generation product.

Each ULN-8 3d also includes a programmable DSP that supports the instantiation of arbitrary DSP processing plug-ins; this is used for insert processing in the mixer and for output processing in the Monitor Controller. ULN-8 3d includes over 100 plugins that you can use for low-latency monitoring, live mixing or in production. The DSP in 3d has 1GB of DDR3 RAM available so long delays and multiple reverbs are not a problem.

The +DSP license included with every unit provides Metric Halo’s unique Graph insert which allows you to build your own signal chains with arbitrary phase compensated routing between plugins. You can insert a Graph in any insert slot in the mixer and as output processors in the Monitor Controller.

The 3d system enhances the processing engine included in each unit by routing between multiple units and utilizing the resources of all units attached via MHLink as one unified system. Your DSP and mixing resources are pooled. This allows you to seamlessly grow your system one unit at a time - all the way up to 128 channels of simultaneous input and output! All your inputs (including inputs from the computer) are available as sources in the mixer and monitor controller. All your outputs (including returns to the computer) are available as destinations for the mixer, monitor controller, cue system and direct outs.

The currently available modules include (with I/O channel counts listed):

• AES/SPDIF EdgeCard (4 in/4 out)

• DB-25 AES EdgeCard (8 in/8 out)

• SPDIF + MIDI EdgeCard (2 in/2 out + MIDI I/O)

• SPDIF + 2x ADAT EdgeCard (18 in/18 out)

• 2x SPDIF + 2x ADAT EdgeCard (20 in/20 out)

• 4x ADAT EdgeCard (32 in/32 out)

• 2x MADI Optical EdgeCard (128 in/128 out)

• 1x MADI Optical + 1x MADI Copper EdgeCard (128 in/128 out)

• 4x MADI Copper EdgeCard (256 in/256 out)

The EdgeCard modules are field installable/swappable and the hardware automatically detects the type of the installed card. All EdgeCard audio channels are first class I/O and may be used just like the built-in channels; all I/O is available simultaneously.

You can use EdgeCards to interface with other systems, get additional I/O via third-party A/D/A converters, provide ingest paths for digital recorders, or to patch into your existing digital console (e.g. via MADI interfacing).

The high-channel counts achievable via MADI interfacing means that you can us your ULN-8s as remote-controlled headamps, side car processing, or as a multitrack recorder for your console.

Format Conversion as a First-class Feature

The combination of MH EdgeBus Cards and MHLink provides built-in, low-latency format conversion between multiple digital audio formats. Within one box, you can convert from any of the input formats supported by the box and it's installed EdgeCard to any of the output formats supported by the box and card.

If you need to convert between formats supported by multiple EdgeCards you can simply MHLink two boxes with different EdgeCards to achieve the conversion.

So things like Analog ⇆ MADI, or MADI ⇆ AES, or AES ⇆ ADAT can all be accomplished without any third-party converter devices.

Integration for the Win

By implementing all the functions of a complete audio front end in a single package, the ULN-8 is able to provide unprecedented power and quality in a lightweight, low-power consumption, single RU hardware unit. This integration provides significant benefits to the owner in the form of reduced cabling (lower cost, weight and less opportunity for failure), weight, power consumption, and cost, while at the same time providing unprecedented performance.

In 3d, the command architecture, conversion and DSP processing systems were all designed in concert with the clocking and transport architecture, resulting in a system with superior sound compared with external clocking systems costing tens of thousands of dollars.

The MHLink routing and transport architecture allows you to build a system with units up to 100 meters apart with no added latency. Audio and clock transport with up to 256 channels of audio (at 192k) is accomplished with light-weight, inexpensive, commodity Cat 5e cabling, that is available virtually anywhere on the planet 24/7. And yet, the entire system still appears to the host computer as a single unified interface.

What does this integration mean to you?

Rather than pay for duplicate case work, duplicate power supplies and redundant interconnects, you get a product where all the components are engineered to work together and everything you pay for is dedicated to providing functionality towards the execution of your task.

The benefits don’t stop there. By tuning all the functional blocks of the system and removing external interconnects, the ULN-8 provides enhanced performance and reduced chance of failure from external influences. Connectors and cables are all potential sources of failure and interference. By eliminating preamp to converter and converter to interface cabling, these sources of cost and potential failure and interference are also eliminated. Internal operating levels within the box are tuned for optimal performance.

The ULN-8’s integrated design provides maximal performance with a minimum use of material and power.

LIO-8 Key Benefits at a Glance

• Exceptional, Best–In–World, Archival Grade Converter Quality

• Exceptional, Boutique–Quality Mic Preamps

• Flexible, Integrated Analog-Domain Monitor Controller

• Universal Sample Rate Support

• Analog, AES, Ethernet, USB and EdgeCard Interfacing

• Rock Solid Stability: Mature, Real-World-Tested Firmware, Software and Drivers

• Hardware-based MHLink multi-unit unification network

• Instant Access to Tactile Controls

• Fully digital control for total recall, remote control and control surface support

• Comprehensive Precision Metering — so you always know what is going on

• Works with or without a Computer

• Metric Halo’s Exclusive instantiable Character — from ultra clean to nice and gooey

• Integrated ultra-low-latency instantiable processing with plenty of DSP power to run it

• Most Compact, Lowest Weight, Lowest Power and Lowest Price in its Class

Suite Solution

With everything you need to record, mix, process, and master audio (just add your DAW of choice and transducers), the ULN-8 is your one-stop solution for recording, edit, mix and mastering suites. Even if you are using a DAW or recording system that does not support the ULN-8 Ethernet or USB interface, the unit’s standalone operation and standard AES and analog interface (and optional ADAT or MADI interfaces) allow you to use it as the Audio Front End and Monitor Controller for Pro Tools HD, standalone and PC based recording systems.

The LIO-8 Starts Where Other Interfaces End

All these features make for an impressive package, but we’re just beginning. The LIO-8 is built around Metric Halo’s DSP platform, giving you the power to run a sophisticated mixer with up to 128 inputs and 64 busses across multiple boxes. Of course you can run plug-ins inside the box as well. It also includes a full +DSP license, giving you the ability to create powerful mixing, sound design and master plug-ins. Beauty and brains, all in 1RU.

At Home in Any Situation

LIO-8 is the perfect tool for capturing audio wherever inspiration hits, in the studio or on the road. Use 3 LIO-8s chained together for 24 tracks of live concert recording with processing on all channels in 3 rack spaces. Add more units if you need more channels. Location sound engineers can now capture the moment — anywhere, anytime.

When you’re done recording, use the LIO-8 in the studio as an extremely high quality audio interface to transfer your tracks into a DAW. You’ll be amazed at the sound of this box! And weighing only 6 pounds, and a little larger than a laptop, you can be the first one out of the gig, with no hassle.

The LIO-8’s archival grade inputs and outputs, coupled with Metric Halo’s exclusive Character processing, provide flexibility and sound quality unavailable on any other interface. You can transition from a wire-with-gain to a gooey tube pre with one click of the mouse, and every input and bus can have the right character for the material you are recording.

The LIO-8 is the only unit in its class with an on-board processing engine that supports fully instantiable processing, allowing you to use Metric Halo’s world-renowned signal processing effects without sacrificing your computer’s processing power or introducing any additional latency in your monitor path. From MIOStrip to HaloVerb, the LIO-8 comes with a full +DSP license that provides all the basic production processing you need — and more. And remember, this one rack space audio interface has the ability to run entirely from any DC power source (16V-24V), making it truly and completely mobile.

Organically Scalable

A unique feature of the Metric Halo system is that MH’s interfaces work as well as a group as they do individually. Mix and match ULN-8 with LIO-8, 2882, and ULN-2 units to create a system that meets your needs for track count and preamp power. Adding a unit to the system automatically increases the DSP power of the system, so that your DSP always scales with your I/O. Break your system up for small gigs when playing out or add the units of your mates to build a huge system when required. By standardizing on the 3d platform, each member of the band can have ultimate quality while working alone, and the band can have huge track counts when playing together. You can’t lose!

Stand-alone Operation

Flexible signal routing and sophisticated patch and preset management systems as well as a comprehensive set of front panel controls are also featured in the LIO-8. The LIO-8’s front-panel controls allow the unit to function equally as well as a stand-alone Mic Pre/Converter system. In standalone mode, the LIO-8 operates with the converters directly routed to and from the AES I/O, and the analog domain sends allow purely analog operation of the preamps.

As a standalone converter, the LIO-8 provides a 24bit/192kHz eight channel front-end with 8 world-class boutique-quality ULN-R mic pres for any recording system. It also functions seamlessly as an analog monitor controller, making it ideal as a digital headphone amp and studio monitor controller.

Applications

The LIO-8 supports a variety of applications. For studio recording, it provides the highest quality interface to a DAW, offering sound processing or simple file transfer between workstations. Its exceptional sound quality makes it perfect as any studio’s primary analog to digital conversion and monitoring chain. Songwriters and engineers can use the ULN-8 to record and edit on the road, in the hotel, while traveling, or anywhere that inspiration strikes.

The LIO-8 is suitable for broadcast applications, too. It offers instant playback of 8 individual stereo sends for music cues or sound effects, or smaller numbers of surround stems. The compact package and portable power features mean that the unit can go anywhere users need to work, and make on-site fixes or edit location recordings without the need to send files back to the studio, saving valuable time before air.

In the live performance arena, in addition to operating as a remote recorder for archiving performances or to play out backing tracks and musical cues, the ULN-8 can operate as a soft-synth mixer and I/O interface.