Hardware:

• Workstations Most computers at CCRMA are running Linux and therefore are Linux workstations. All the peripherals around your system are part of the workstation configuration. These might include screen monitor, computer keyboard, CPU, hard drive, compact disc units, zip drives as well as sound cards, input output devices such as MIDI interfaces or audio boxes. A Multimedia (audio and video as well as storage media) setup with speakers, microphones and even video camera is also part of the workstation configuration. Take time to familiarize yourself with the operation and handling of all these devices since you will be using them on a daily basis. Try backing up your data and sound-files to zip discs, cd-r or cd-rw's. A recordable dvd can also store your home directory and even your composition sounfiles.

• Audio I/O Most CCRMA workstations are configured to play and record audio. The applications in the sound and composition sections make extensive use of audio inputs and outputs. Audio connectors for headphones or recorders can be plugged in through the outputs of the OMNI I/O interfaces which are part of the system, in this way you are “monitoring” your audio through headphones or speakers. The OMNI I/O can also be used to record or process your audio signal through its balanced or unbalanced input. Make sure you adjust your recording levels in order to avoid clipping or saturation.

• ALSA is The Advanced Linux Sound Architecture project, please see the MIDI and Sound section for more information.

• MIDI In addition to audio input and output some sound-cards like Creative Labs Sound-Blaster or compatible provide a joystick- like MPU-401 connector that is used for MIDI IN and OUT when hooked up with a Y shaped adapter cable. Some CCRMA workstations are equipped with this feature allowing MIDI in and OUT. Programs like playmidi or aplay only support MIDI out from the computer, while PD and Jazz allow MIDI in. Make sure the cables are connected properly since this is the most popular source of MIDI malfunctioning.

  The input port on the interface card, the adapter cable and the instrument act as receiving bins. Before your MIDI instrument can process the information sent to it by the computer, it has to have this information sent in through its IN port. When you want to communicate your performance to your computer from your instrument, the computer must receive the information into its IN port (the MIDI IN port on your interface). The output ports work in the same way. Your instrument's MIDI OUT port sends OUT information to the interface card (your interface receives the data through it's MIDI IN port). The interface's MIDI OUT port sends out information to your instrument (your instrument receives the data through the MIDI IN port).

• OMNI I/O Audio Interfaces

  The Omni i/O by M Audio is a record/playback "front end" for the M-Audio Delta 44, Delta 66 audio interface cards, combining together to form a complete system capable of adapting to many studio scenarios.

  More than simply adding mic preamps to an audio card, the Omni I/O emulates a "split console" mixer design, making any routing scenario possible. The unit contains everything needed to record mics, guitars, keyboards and all other instruments, monitor playback, add effects, and mixdown.

  Two mic/instr pre-amps can be switched to line input for a total of four line inputs. Use the direct outs, or route to the Omni i/O?s extremely quiet mixer to add effects, blend in keyboards using the unity gain aux ins, and even reroute them to the inputs for recording. Monitor and mix with separate control room level, plus two headphone outs with individual level controls. A detailed user guide takes you step by step, making it easy to get the most out of the Omni I/O and your recording system.