Routing example

Goal

We aim to use EKIO to filter the 5.1 audio stream generated by Windows applications. EKIO processes the input stream into 10 analog channels, which are then sent to 10 amplifiers.

Configuration

The proposed solution is illustrated bellow:

We want to route 6 channels from WDM OUT to ASIO IN. Since the Saffire Pro40 sound card allows routing only 2 channels with internal routing (loopback 1 and 2), we need another solution. We create an external loopback by sending signals to the sound card's physical outputs (link 2) and looping them back into the inputs with an external connection cable (link 3). This makes our signals available to ASIO IN (4). We establish this loopback using an ADAT digital link to prevent signal degradation.

We create the following links:

Link 1:

Windows Applications

PC applications utilize standard Windows audio drivers (WDM, DirectSound, etc.), sending the audio across 6 different channels using the 5.1 format.

Link 2:

Audio interface configuration

Direct DAW channels 1-6 towards ADAT outputs 1-6.

Link 3:

Hardware Connection

Create an external loop by sending ADAT outputs 1-6 to ADAT inputs 1-6. Connect a Toslink cable between the optical input and output of the sound card.

Link 4:

Audio interface configuration

The Saffire Pro40 automatically directs all physical inputs to ASIO inputs, including the ADAT inputs of interest. No special configuration is required.

Link 5:

EKIO Configuration (Input Selection)

Within EKIO, choose the Saffire sound card, and select the relevant inputs. All physical inputs, including the ADAT inputs, are listed. Choose ADAT inputs 1-6, corresponding to channels 11-16.

Link 6:

EKIO Configuration (Output Selection)

For outputs, 20 DAW channels are available. However, the first channels are occupied to receive audio from the Windows audio driver (e.g. WDM). If Windows is set for 2.0 output, channels DAW1 and DAW2 are in use; for 5.1 output, channels DAW1 to DAW6 are in use; and for 7.1 output, channels DAW1 to DAW8 are in use.

Avoid these occupied channels and configure EKIO to output on channels DAW11-20.

Link 7:

Audio interface configuration

In MixControl, connect the physical outputs as follows:

Link 8:

Hardware Connection

Connect the sound card analog outputs 1-10 to 10 amplification channels.