Creative 0404 Owners Manual - Page 21

Direct Monitoring DIRECT MONITORING Direct monitoring allows you to monitor inputs without having any software open. It can also be used as an alternative to software monitoring if you desire the lowest latency monitoring possible. When using a computer for digital recording, an audible time delay occurs while the audio signal is being input to the computer, processed by the software and then returned to the output for monitoring. This time delay is called Latency. Latency becomes a problem when you have to use high buffer settings to conserve CPU resources. Because the 0404 USB 2.0 has hardware direct monitoring, you can enjoy zero latency regardless of your buffer setting. The Direct Monitor feature connects the input signals to the selected outputs when recording so that you can hear your performance without delay. The Direct Monitor level control lets you adjust the volume of the input signal in relation to the recorded tracks. Direct monitoring is controlled manually from the Direct Monitor switch on the 0404 USB 2.0. It's not necessary to turn it on in your recording application. NOTE to PC Users: Direct monitoring is not available at 176.4 or 192 kHz. Latency (delay) Software Monitoring Direct Monitoring Direct Monitoring allows you to listen to the direct sound of your instrument during recording, without the delay incurred by going to the computer and back. Direct Monitoring vs. Software Monitoring Direct monitoring is lower latency and can also be used without software running (or even without a computer!). Software monitoring has the advantage of allowing audio effects or EQ added in the host software to be heard on the output. Its round-trip latency depends on what latency is chosen. If you choose to software monitor, make sure to disable direct monitoring. If both are enabled, you will experience a 'comb filter' or doubling effect. 0404 USB 2.0 Owner's Manual 21