[RESOLVED] If connected via USB-B, digital noise in all 8 individual outs

If the unit is connected via USB-B to the computer, digital noise will sum up on all 8 individual outputs.

Synopsis : I was experimenting USB-B sync on the S2400 to track the 8 individual outputs in Cubase 11 DAW. I was noticing strange digital noise (similar to network connections, computer processing) when I was monitoring. In fact The noise stays printed on each audio stem and makes it very complicated to mix and master.

Steps to reproduce:

  1. connect s2400 USB-B to computer and power up .
    2 ) connect all individual outputs to audio interface.
  2. On audio interface, add at least 6 DB of gain on each outputs ( I added extra preamps with another 6DB on each out).
  3. You might already hear some digital noise. If not launch a session in DAW ( I use Cubase) and monitor all outputs at the same time.The noise will sum.
  4. Load up a project, start a new one s2400 on different channels and record your individual parts.
  5. Notice that the digital noise can be heard on dynamic parts of the project/song (intro, outro)
  6. Adding limiters, mastering effect will increase the noise.
  7. Safely disconnect USB-B on S2400.
  8. Notice there is no more noise while monitoring.

Conclusion : USB-B transfer info via computer might bleed into the individual outputs and cause digital noise.*** Not tested yet while syncing via Midi and USB host port ****

Video ( Listen with headphones at the outro of the video)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k7_VwFrL8Fs

Specs: S2400 latest Firmware Dec 2020, 8 outputs connected TS cables, PC windows 10 64 bits, antelope Orion synergy core. Cubase 11 pro

1 Like

This will undoubtedly be something to do with the earth in your setup.
Is the computer a laptop? Does it still make noise if you run the laptop from only the battery?
Try plugging all mains connected devices into the same outlet strip.
Check the power cable you are using with the s2400 (if not the one supplied) actually has 3 holes in the plug end and not just two.

2 Likes

I’m on a Desktop PC. All the gear is connected to a Furman power conditioner including the S2400 with its original power supply (3 pins). It does not sound like a earth ground hum. When I disconnect the USB B cable, the noise dissappears. I will do further testing with usb host and midi and switch usb ports also to see if I can reproduce.

Alex Sanchez
Owner/Music Producer/Recording Artist

Globe King Records
Quebec,Canada
t: (1) 514 654-4930
e: info@globekingrecords.com
www.globekingrecords.com

1 Like

is there a hub in between any of this?
If it’s a desktop PC, and a separate audio interface, you might try running a ground cable from the S2400 to the chassis of the PC and/or audio interface.
I wasn’t eluding to earth (50/60hz) hum, I’m referring to a ground loop
keep me posted

Yes there is a usb hub. I have tried to connect directly to the computer and noise is still there. I switch 3 usb b cables and the problem persists as soon as I remove the usb b no more noise. Im looking for a usb host cable to test. Midi won’t be a possibility my soundcard does not have midi ports.

Alex Sanchez
Owner/Music Producer/Recording Artist

Globe King Records
Quebec,Canada
t: (1) 514 654-4930
e: info@globekingrecords.com
www.globekingrecords.com

that’s weird. i’ve only had noise when the USB is running the power and the audio.

it’s not the BEST solution, but if you don’t want to add a full USB to MIDI DIN box there’s these -

i’ve used them, they work well.

I just purchased the something similar. Will test when it arrives. Thanks

Alex Sanchez
Owner/Music Producer/Recording Artist

Globe King Records
Quebec,Canada
t: (1) 514 654-4930
e: info@globekingrecords.com
www.globekingrecords.com

1 Like

good luck!

Can somebody help me out with the right settings to clock sync via midi and cubase daw?

Alex Sanchez
Owner/Music Producer/Recording Artist

Globe King Records
Quebec,Canada
t: (1) 514 654-4930
e: info@globekingrecords.com
www.globekingrecords.com

clock settings using usb? or DIN?

in cubase goto sync page (it moves depending on version) in my version of cubase this page is under transport dropdown but i suspect in version 11 they have moved it again :woozy_face: be sure to check boxes for midi clock are ticked for din and / or usb

in 2400 hit file and sync - then push encoder to open dropdonws and tick necessary boxes for transport etc and set 2400 to slave via the preferable connection

i should at this point suggest to RTM on both cubase and 2400 to assist you further if you struggle with the basics :peace_symbol:

Thank you . Its working :pray:t4:

Alex Sanchez
Owner/Music Producer/Recording Artist

Globe King Records
Quebec,Canada
t: (1) 514 654-4930
e: info@globekingrecords.com
www.globekingrecords.com

This thread saved my life!!! I was having the exact same issue. I thought it was my audio interface. Found this thread, unhooked the USB from my S2400, and all my 8 outs went silent!! Thank god lol.

I was only using USB to transfer files, so no big deal. I’ll just plug it in when I need it.

Yes, same here - thank you all!

Massive amounts of noise on my S2400 8 outs and mix out.
My RME Fireface UFX III channels up to -65dB with random clearly perceivable noise.

Like Brad suggested, in my case it was the (iVanky) USB-Hub.

Routing all audio gear now directly into my MacBook Pro. Noise floor down at -101dB and lower.

I was really concerned about a bad USB implementation on the S2400, because my AKAI MPC X SE was way less effected while connected to the same hub.

Would of course be great to have a better shielding inside the machine.

Adding the dynamic filters increases the noise floor by roughly 15-20dB. The fixed filters do not effect the noise floor of the channel.