• Registered: 2012-08-08
  • Posts: 4

Topic: Can I use DIGI9652 & 9636 internal jumpers as SPDIF for VSTsystem link

Hello all.

Can I use DIGI9652 & 9636 internal jumpers as SPDIF for VSTsystem link?

I am a longtime user of a Hammerfall 9652, which I use with 3 ADATS and a TASCAM M-600 for a 24 track setup.  Software is Nuendo 2.1.  Yes, this is all very vintage, but it works well.  The RME card has been very reliable, and I intend to use it until it fails.  The ADATs seem to be on their last legs though...

I also have a DIGI9636 lying around uninstalled.  After re-reading the manual, I've realised I can use VST system link to link two computers, each running one card.   But I don't want to sacrifice any optical ports.  Ideally I could run 5 ADATs in full sample lock synch across the two computers, even if the second system just does effects and software synthesis. 

After closely reading the manual, it seems possible to use the internal jumpers on the card as SPDIF send and receive points, rather than waste an optical port on each card.  I'll quote the Hammerfall manual at page 13:
"SPDIF In - Defines the input for the SPDIF signal. 'Coaxial' relates to the white phono plug, 'Internal' to the jumper CD In (ST3)..."
"SPDIF Out - The SPDIF output signal is constantly available at the internal jumper Sync Out (ST4) and the red phono plug. After selecting 'ADAT1' it is also routed to the optical output ADAT1."

My plan is to find / make two cables with the correct terminations for the jumpers, and patch from computer to computer, DIRECTLY TO THE CARD JUMPER PINS.  That is:  Computer 1 (master) DIGI-52 SPDIF OUT at ST4, connects to Computer 2 (slave) DIGI-36 SPDIF IN at ST3.  Computer 2 SPDIF OUT at ST4 connects back to computer 1 SPDIF IN at ST3, thus closing the loop.  With the software settings for VST System Link set in Nuendo to address the appropriate synch signal, it seems like it should work. 

Am I completely insane, or will this work?   If this will burn something out on the card, please tell me, I would be devastated to lose my 9652!  I will use "consumer" (low voltage) for the SPDIF settings.

If I don't hear back in a few weeks, I might give it a go, and report back, but if anyone has an idea, please post.

PS - any idea on best configuration for the cables (shielded, but drop the shield at one end?  No shield?  Maximum practical length? - I should need about 5 metres).

Thanks, Jazzmaster_George

2 Reply by MC

  • MC
  • MC
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  • From: Germany/Thailand
  • Registered: 2007-04-06
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Re: Can I use DIGI9652 & 9636 internal jumpers as SPDIF for VSTsystem link

I don't understand what that is good for - why you don't use the normal external SPDIF coxial connection instead.

Regards
Matthias Carstens
RME

MC's Website

  • Registered: 2012-08-08
  • Posts: 4

Re: Can I use DIGI9652 & 9636 internal jumpers as SPDIF for VSTsystem link

Dear Matthias,

Wow, thanks for responding so quickly.

I didn't think I could use the the SPDIF coaxial, because I'm already using the 9-pin D-sub connector as the sync input from ADAT number 3.  My understanding is that the SPDIF coaxial in and out is an adaptor cable on that same 9-pin, so I've always thought you couldn't use the two at the same time - it was either ADAT sync in, or the SPDIF coaxial in-out.  If you can use both, can you describe for me how to do it?

Thanks, George

4 Reply by MC

  • MC
  • MC
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Re: Can I use DIGI9652 & 9636 internal jumpers as SPDIF for VSTsystem link

The breakout cable that came with these cards has two 9 pin D-sub and two RCAs (phono). Your statement/question confuses me - where is the problem?

Regards
Matthias Carstens
RME

MC's Website

  • Registered: 2012-08-08
  • Posts: 4

Re: Can I use DIGI9652 & 9636 internal jumpers as SPDIF for VSTsystem link

Matthias - I've never had the breakout cables.  Since I've never had much use for SPDIF (I mix to open reel tape), I haven't bothered to get one.  So does the 9-pin adaptor allow you to use both ADAT sync and SPDIF coax?  That would be good news; I didn't really pick that up from the manual.  There is a pinout diagram, which says pins 9, 6, 5 & 1 are used for coax.  What is the pinout for ADAT sync? I'll solder an adaptor.

  • Registered: 2012-08-08
  • Posts: 4

Re: Can I use DIGI9652 & 9636 internal jumpers as SPDIF for VSTsystem link

Update:  I found some pinout diagrams online, but I also checked the RME website and the breakout cable is still available.  I've spoken with the local distributor, they are in stock, so I've ordered a pair of them. So I'll instal these and try the VST system link using the SPDIF coaxial plugs and let you know how it goes.  Thanks Matthias for your help.