M-Audio Omni i/o [7/30] Operational basics definitions

9. “To Ins 3, 4” Switch: This switch, when pressed and locked to the in position,

will send the stereo signal that is present at the Aux In 2 jack to the Delta

H/W In 3 & 4. The Aux In 2 signal is then simultaneously muted to the

Omni stereo buss.

10 Effects (FX) Return: These 1/4” jacks accept TS plugs for unbalanced

operation, or TRS for balanced, and can be used to return the outputs of an

effects device to the Omni mixer. One plug can be plugged into the left input

for mono operation. When only the left jack used in this mono mode, the

signal is directed to the center of the stereo soundfield. When two plugs are

used, one in the left input and the other in the right, each is panned hard left

and hard right respectively.

11. Line 3 In & Line 4 In: These 1/4” jacks accept TS plugs for unbalanced

operation, or TRS for balanced, and are the Omni line inputs to Delta H/W

Ins 3&4.

12. 15 pin D-sub Connector: Utilizing the specially made shielded cable that

came with the Delta card, the Omni is connected to the Delta card via this 15

pin connector. This cable connects the Omni mic, instrument, and line ins to

the Delta H/W Ins 1-4, and the Delta H/W Outs 1-4 to the Omni mixer.

13. Insert 1 & Insert 2: These 1/4” TRS insert jacks access the Mic/Instr signal

path for unbalanced signal processing. An “insert cable” should be used,

which is a TRS plug to L&R mono TS plugs, where left is the send to the

effect and right is the return. Insert 1 is in the signal path of Mic/Instr Input

1, while Insert 2 is in the signal path of Mic/Instr Input 2.

4.3 Top Panel

The rear of the Omni top panel shows a mirror of the back panel, and is labeled

“Bottom Row” and “Top Row”. This is for your convenience when patching and

unpatching.

The Signal Flow chart on the front left of the Omni top panel gives you a quick

guide to how the signal moves in relation to the Omni. Should you need a quick

reminder, the flow chart is there for you. Signal flow is dealt with in more depth

in the section, “Omni Signal Flow Chart” later in this manual.

5. Operational Basics & Definitions

There are some basic concepts that apply to all audio gear. Understanding them

will help in your operation of the Omni I/O, as well as create a set of common

terms to use in our discussion of the Omni components.

5.1 Balanced Signals

A “balanced” line runs the signal on two wires of opposing polarity, as a ‘twisted

pair’ surrounded by a grounded shield. Doing so, it can send a ‘hotter’ signal

over a longer distance with less added noise. Using a TRS (tip-ring-sleeve, or