CREATIVE 1212M - Manual (Page 101)

7 - Appendix
Useful Information
E-MU Digital Audio System 101
Useful Information
AES/EBU to S/PDIF Cable Adapter
This simple adapter cable allows you to receive AES/EBU digital audio via the S/PDIF
input on the E-MU 1010 PCI card. This cable may also work to connect S/PDIF out from
the 1010 PCI card to the AES/EBU input of other digital equipment.
Cables - balanced or unbalanced?
All inputs and outputs on the E-MU Digital Audio System are designed to use either
balanced or unbalanced cables. Balanced signals provide an additional +6dB of gain
on the inputs and are recommended for best audio performance, although unbalanced
cables are fine for most applications. If you’re having problems with hum and noise or
just want the best possible performance, use balanced cables.
WARNING: Do NOT
use balanced audio
cables when connecting
balanced outputs to
unbalanced inputs.
Doing so can increase
noise level and introduce
hum. Use balanced
(3-conductor) cables
ONLY if you are
connecting balanced
inputs to balanced
outputs.
Balanced Cables
Balanced cables are used in professional studios because they cancel out noise and
interference. Connector plugs used on balanced cables are XLR (3-prong mic connector)
or TRS (Tip, Ring, Sleeve) 1/4" phone plugs.
Balanced cables have one ground (shield) connection and two signal-carrying
conductors of equal potential but opposite polarity. There is one “hot” or positive lead,
and a “cold” or negative lead. At any point in time, both conductors are equal in voltage
but opposite in polarity. Both leads may pick up interference, but because it is present
both in and out of phase, this interference cancels out at the balanced input connection.
1 2
3
-
N.C.
To S/PDIF
In
From AES/EBU
Device
+
Output Input
1 2
3
2 1
3
1 = Ground/shield
2 =
Hot (+)
3 = Cold (-)
Tip = Hot (+)
Sleeve = Ground
Ring = Cold (-)
Tip = Signal
Sleeve = Ground
Balanced 1/4”
TRS Connectors
Balanced XLR
Connectors
Unbalanced 1/4”
Connectors