Owner’s Manual

Complete recording solution

 IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
WARNING FOR YOUR PROTECTION
READ THESE INSTRUCTIONS:
KEEP THESE INSTRUCTIONS
HEED ALL WARNINGS
FOLLOW ALL INSTRUCTIONS
The symbols shown above are internationally accepted symbols Do not use this apparatus near water
that warn of potential hazards with electrical products. The
lightning flash with arrowpoint in an equilateral triangle means The apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing
liquid and no object filled with liquid, such as vases, shall
that there are dangerous voltages present within the unit. The
be placed on the apparatus.
exclamation point in an equilateral triangle indicates that it is
necessary for the user to refer to the owner’s manual. CLEAN ONLY WITH A DRY CLOTH.
DO NOT BLOCK ANY OF THE VENTILATION OPENINGS. INSTALL IN
These symbols warn that there are no user serviceable parts ACCORDANCE WITH THE MANUFACTURER’S INSTRUCTIONS.
inside the unit. Do not open the unit. Do not attempt to service
DO NOT INSTALL NEAR ANY HEAT SOURCES SUCH AS RADIATORS, HEAT
the unit yourself. Refer all servicing to qualified personnel.
REGISTERS, STOVES, OR OTHER APPARATUS (INCLUDING AMPLIFIERS)
Opening the chassis for any reason will void the manufacturer’s THAT PRODUCE HEAT.
warranty. Do not get the unit wet. If liquid is spilled on the
unit, shut it off immediately and take it to a dealer for service. ONLY USE ATTACHMENTS/ACCESSORIES SPECIFIED BY THE
Disconnect the unit during storms to prevent damage. MANUFACTURER.
UNPLUG THIS APPARATUS DURING LIGHTNING STORMS OR WHEN
UNUSED FOR LONG PERIODS OF TIME.

Safety Instructions Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A
polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding
Notice For Customers If Your Unit Is Equipped With A Power Cord. type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or
WARNING: THIS APPLIANCE MUST BE EARTHED. Connect only to a third prong are provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit
mains socket outlet with protective earthing connection. your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at
The cores in the mains lead are coloured in accordance with the following code:
plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the
GREEN and YELLOW - Earth BLUE - Neutral BROWN - Live apparatus.
Use only with the cart stand, tripod bracket, or table specified by the manu-
As colours of the cores in the mains lead of this appliance may not
facturer, or sold with the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution when
correspond with the coloured markings identifying the terminals in your
moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury from tip-over.­
plug, proceed as follows:
• The core which is coloured green and yellow must be connected to the
terminal in the plug marked with the letter E, or with the earth symbol,
or coloured green, or green and yellow.
• The core which is coloured blue must be connected to the terminal
Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when
the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord
marked N or coloured black. or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the
• The core which is coloured brown must be connected to the terminal
apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not
marked L or coloured red. operate normally, or has been dropped.
This equipment may require the use of a different line cord, attachment POWER ON/OFF SWITCH: For products provided with a power switch, the
plug, or both, depending on the available power source at installation. power switch DOES NOT break the connection from the mains.
If the attachment plug needs to be changed, refer servicing to qualified MAINS DISCONNECT: The plug shall remain readily operable. For rack-
service personnel who should refer to the table below. The green/yellow mount or installation where plug is not accessible, an all-pole mains
wire shall be connected directly to the units chassis. switch with a contact separation of at least 3 mm in each pole shall be
incorporated into the electrical installation of the rack or building.
FOR UNITS EQUIPPED WITH EXTERNALLY ACCESSIBLE FUSE RECEPTACLE:
Replace fuse with same type and rating only.
MULTIPLE-INPUT VOLTAGE: This equipment may require the use of a
WARNING: If the ground is defeated, certain fault conditions in different line cord, attachment plug, or both, depending on the available
the unit or in the system to which it is connected can result in full power source at installation. Connect this equipment only to the power
line voltage between chassis and earth ground. Severe injury or source indicated on the equipment rear panel. To reduce the risk of fire or
electric shock, refer servicing to qualified service personnel or equivalent.
death can then result if the chassis and earth ground are touched
simultaneously. This Equipment is intended for rack mount use only.
 Section Title
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

ELECTROMAGNETIC DECLARATION OF
COMPATIBILITY CONFORMITY

This unit conforms to the Product Manufacturer’s Name: Lexicon Professional

Manufacturer’s Address: 8760 S. Sandy Pkwy.
Specifications noted on the Declaration
Sandy, UT 84070, USA
of Conformity. Operation is subject
Declares that the product:
to the following two conditions:
Product name: Lexicon Lambda™
• this device may not cause harmful Note: Product name may be
interference, and suffixed by the letters-EU.

• this device must accept any interference Product option: None

received, including interference that may Conforms to the following Product Specifications:
cause undesired operation.
Safety: IEC 60065 (2002)
Operation of this unit within significant
EMC: EN 55013 (2001 + A1)
electromagnetic fields should be avoided. EN 55020 (1998)
• use only shielded interconnecting cables.
Supplementary Information:

The product herewith complies with the requirements

of the Low Voltage Directive 72/23/EEC and the
EMC Directive 89/336/EEC as amended by Directive
U.K. MAINS PLUG WARNING 93/68/EEC.

Vice-President
A molded mains plug that has been cut off of Engineering - MI
from the cord is unsafe. Discard the mains 8760 S. Sandy Parkway
plug at a suitable disposal facility. Sandy, Utah 84070, USA
Date: October 24, 2005
NEVER UNDER ANY Revised: February 2, 2006
CIRCUMSTANCES SHOULD YOU European Contact: Your local Lexicon
INSERT A DAMAGED OR CUT Sales and Service Office or

MAINS PLUG INTO A 13 AMP Harman Music Group

8760 S. Sandy Pkwy.
POWER SOCKET. Sandy, UT 84070 USA
Do not use the mains plug without the fuse Ph: (801) 566-8800
Fax: (801) 568-7583
cover in place. Replacement fuse covers
can be obtained from your local retailer.
Replacement fuses are 13 amps and MUST
be ASTA approved to BS1362.
Service Info/Warranty

Service Info
If you require technical support, contact Lexicon® Professional Customer Service.
Be prepared to accurately describe the problem. Know the serial number of your unit,
found on a sticker attached to the bottom of the Lambda Studio™. If you have not
already taken the time to fill out your warranty registration card and send it in, please
do so now.
Before you return a product to the factory for service, we recommend you refer to
the manual. Make sure you have correctly followed installation steps and operation
procedures. If you are still unable to solve a problem, contact our Customer Service
Department at (801) 568-7660 for consultation. If you need to return a product
to the factory for service, you MUST contact Customer Service to obtain a Return
Authorization Number. No returned products will be accepted at the factory without a
Return Authorization Number. Please refer to the Warranty information on the follow-
ing page, which extends to the first end-user. After expiration of the warranty, a reason-
able charge will be made for parts, labor, and packing if you choose to use the factory
service facility. In all cases, you are responsible for transportation charges to the fac-
tory. Lexicon Professional will pay return shipping if the unit is still under warranty.
Use the original packing material if it is available. Mark the package with the name
of the shipper and with these words in red: DELICATE INSTRUMENT, FRAGILE! Insure
the package properly. Ship prepaid, not collect. Do not ship parcel post.

Warranty
This warranty is valid only for the original purchaser and only in the United States.

1. The warranty registration card that accompanies this product must be mailed (or
online regisration must be completed at www.lexiconpro.com) within 30 days after
purchase date to validate this warranty. Proof-of-purchase is considered to be the
burden of the consumer.
2. Lexicon Professional warrants this product, when bought and used solely within
the U.S., to be free from defects in materials and workmanship under normal use
and service.
3. Lexicon Professional’s liability under this warranty is limited to repairing or, at
our discretion, replacing defective materials that show evidence of defect, provided
the product is returned to Lexicon Professional WITH RETURN AUTHORIZATION
from the factory, where all parts and labor will be covered up to a period of 1 year.
A Return Authorization number must be obtained from Lexicon Professional by
telephone. The company shall not be liable for any consequential damage as
a result of the product's use in any circuit or assembly.
4. Lexicon Professional reserves the right to make changes in design or make addi-
tions to or improvements upon this product without incurring any obligation to
install the same additions or improvements on products previously manufactured.
5. The foregoing is in lieu of all other warranties, expressed or implied, and Lexicon
Professional neither assumes nor authorizes any person to assume on its behalf any
obligation or liability in connection with the sale of this product. In no event shall
Lexicon Professional or its dealers be liable for special or consequential damages or
from any delay in the performance of this warranty due to causes beyond its control.


 Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Introduction.......................................... 8

Features...................................................................................8

Unpacking the lambda studioTM...........................................9

Computer minimum requirements.......................................9

Windows® .............................................................................................................. 9
Macintosh®. ........................................................................................................... 9

The FRONT Panel......................................................................10

Mic 1-2 Gain........................................................................................................... 10
Line 1-2 Gain.......................................................................................................... 10
Peak LEDs............................................................................................................... 10
Monitor Assign........................................................................................................ 10
Monitor Mix Control............................................................................................... 11
Output Level............................................................................................................ 11
Input Bargraph Meter............................................................................................. 11
USB LED.................................................................................................................. 11
+48V Phantom Power LED.................................................................................... 11
1
⁄8" Headphone Output Jack................................................................................... 11
¼" Instrument Input Jack...................................................................................... 11

The REAr Panel........................................................................12

Line In 1-2.............................................................................................................. 12
Insert 1-2 ............................................................................................................... 12
Mic 1-2 Inputs........................................................................................................ 12
Left/Right Line Outputs.......................................................................................... 12
MIDI In and Out ................................................................................................... 12
+48V Phantom Power Switch................................................................................ 13
USB Port ................................................................................................................ 13

Connecting to the lambda studio...... 13

Monitoring connections....................................................13
Connecting Headphones........................................................................................ 13
Connecting to Monitor Speakers............................................................................ 13
Connecting to a Home Stereo................................................................................ 14

about Recording connections..........................................14

To Connect a Microphone...................................................................................... 14
To Activate Phantom Power............................................................................ 14
Using the Analog Inserts................................................................................. 14
To Connect a Line Level Source............................................................................. 15
To Connect an Instrument..................................................................................... 15


Table of Contents

Mixdown Connections........................................................15
Connecting to an External Recorder..................................................................... 15
Mixing Within Cubase® LE 4................................................................................. 16

CONNECTIONS DIAGRAM . .......................................................16

Windows® Software setup...................................................16

Windows® Vista and XP.......................................................................................... 16

macintosh® Software SetUp................................................17

Mac OS.................................................................................................................... 17

Using the Lexicon® Lambda STUDIO™.... 18

Section I – Recording audio With the Lambda Studio™................................... 19
A. Recording using the Microphone/line Input............................................. 19
B. Recording a Guitar using the Instrument input....................................... 26
Section II – Recording MIDI with the Lambda Studio........................................ 28
Section III – Using software Input Monitoring.................................................... 29
Section IV – Adjusting the Buffer Settings............................................................ 32
A. Adjusting the Buffers in Windows® XP..................................................... 32
B. Adjusting the Buffers in Mac OSX............................................................. 33

Specifications......................................... 34

Signal routing diagram...................... 35



Introduction

Introduction
Congratulations on your purchase of the Lexicon® Lambda Desktop Recording
Studio™. The Lexicon Lambda Studio is a complete package of hardware and soft-
ware that turns your USB-equipped computer into a professional multitrack recording
workstation. Whether you use it for high-quality stereo location recording with a laptop
computer, or for multitrack overdubbing and mixing in a home studio desktop system
with MIDI synthesizers, the Lambda Studio hardware provides the professional-quality
inputs and outputs, metering, and level controls that computer sound cards or built-in
audio connections lack.

So you can make full use of the Lambda Studio right away, we’ve included the popular
Steinberg® Cubase® LE 4 production suite software for PC and Mac computers. Cubase
LE 4 offers integrated multi-track recording, editing and mixing of up to 48 audio
tracks, 64 MIDI tracks, VST® Instruments support, VST plug-in effects support, and
an array of additional features. Lexicon’s Pantheon™ VST reverb plug-in is a major
feature of the Lambda Studio package, providing the lush Lexicon reverbs that have
been used on professional recordings for over thirty years. Alternatively, the Lexicon
Lambda Studio may be used as an interface with almost any other major audio record-
ing software you may have, such as Steinberg Nuendo®, Cubase SX®, MOTU® Digital
Performer®, Garage Band®, Cakewalk® Sonar™, and many others.

Features

The Lambda Desktop Recording Studio™

provides the following:
• 5 analog audio inputs
• 2 - XLR mic inputs with extremely low noise dbx® preamps, 44 dB gain,
and +48V phantom power (switchable)
• ¼" TRS Insert jack on each mic input
• 2 - ¼" analog RF filtered TRS active-balanced line inputs
• 1 - ¼" ultra-high-impedence analog instrument input
• 2 - ¼" analog TRS active line outputs
• High powered headphone amplifier
• MIDI In and Out
• 24-bit A/D and D/A converters, supporting sample rates of 44.1 kHz and 48 kHz
• Zero-latency analog record monitoring with adjustable balance between
Direct and Playback
• Stereo and Mono input source monitoring
• 100% USB Powered


 Introduction

unpacking the lambda STUDIO™

The Lambda Studio™ is shipped in one carton, containing the Lambda Studio
Interface hardware, Steinberg® Cubase® LE 4 and Lexicon® Pantheon™ plug-in
software for Windows® and Macintosh® based systems. After unpacking, save all the
packaging materials in case you ever have to ship the unit. Thoroughly inspect the
Lambda Studio and packing materials for signs of damage. Report any shipment dam-
age to the carrier that delivered the product or dealer from whom you purchased the
product at once.

The following items are included:

• Lambda desktop audio interface hardware
• Installer CD-ROM containing Cubase LE 4 Recording Software, USB drivers
and the Lexicon Pantheon Reverb Plug-in for Mac and Windows
• USB Connector Cable
• This Owner’s Manual
• Lexicon Pantheon™ Reverb Plug-in User’s Guide
• Lexicon Professional warranty registration

NOTE: The full Cubase LE 4 manual is located “online” on the software CD

Computer minimum requirements

Powerful software for audio recording requires a powerful computer with the right
operating system software, processor, memory, and hard drive space. Most computers
currently sold already meet these requirements, or can be upgraded to be compatible
with the Lexicon Lambda Desktop Recording Studio. As with all such systems, adding
more RAM than the minimum will allow you to do more processing and improve per-
formance, and more disk space will allow you to record more tracks for a longer time.
See the Lambda Studio Software Installation Guide and the Cubase LE 4 manual for
more information.

Windows® Vista, XP Home, or XP Professional

• Pentium / Athlon 1.4 GHz
• 512 MB RAM
• Display Resolution 1024 x 768 pixels
• Windows DirectX compatible audio hardware; ASIO compatible audio hardware
recommended for low latency performance
• DVD-ROM drive
• Internet access required for license activation

Macintosh®
• Power Mac G4 1 GHz or Core Solo 1.5 GHz
• 512 MB RAM
• OS X Version 10.4
• Display Resolution 1024 x 768 pixels
• CoreAudio compatible audio hardware
• DVD-ROM drive
• Internet access required for license activation


The Front Panel
Mic 1-2 Gain

Mic 1 Peak Mic 2 Peak

Peak LEDs Monitor

Peak LEDs
Monitor Assign Stereo Mono

Line 1 Peak Line 2 Peak

Line 1 Gain Line 2 Gain

Monitor

Monitor Assign Stereo Mono

Monitor Mix Output Level

Monitor Mix Control Output Level

Direct Playback
Clip
-6
-20
Input Bargraph Meter
For the cleanest Instrument
USB
-40
+48V

USB LED +48V Phantom Power LED

recording, adjust
the Gain so the 1/4” Instrument Input Jack 1/8” Headphone Output Jack
level reaches at
least -6 on the
Input Bargraph
Meter, but never
lights the Clip LED The FRONT Panel
on the loudest The Lambda Studio™ front panel offers the following features:
sound you’ll be
recording. If you Mic 1-2 Gain
see the Peak LED These knobs adjust the input gain levels of the Mic 1 and Mic 2 inputs.
light constantly,
Line 1-2 Gain
turn the Gain
These knobs adjust the input gain levels of the Line 1 and Line 2 inputs.
knob down until it
flashes only occa- Peak LEDs
sionally, on the These LEDs light when the input signal is within 5dB of analog clipping. If the Peak
loudest part of the LEDs flicker occasionally, the signal is approaching clipping levels, but does not neces-
performance. sarily indicate distortion or actual clipping.

DO NOT TURN Monitor Assign

DOWN A Gain These buttons select whether a pair of analog audio sources will be heard in stereo or
CONTROL TO mono in the Direct Monitor Mix. In Stereo mode, the left inputs (Mic 1, Line 1) are
GET THE RIGHT routed to the left monitor and right (Mic 2, Line 2) inputs are routed to the right
MIX IN YOUR monitor.
HEADPHONES OR
MONITORS WHILE In Mono mode, you’ll hear the selected inputs in the center of the Direct Monitor Mix
RECORDING. USE through the Headphone or Line outputs.
THE Monitor
Mix CONTROL When a Monitor switch is in Mono, it does not change the signals going to the com-
FOR THIS puter in any way—they will still be separate and stereo in the computer.
PURPOSE.

10
 The Front Panel

Monitor Mix Control

The Lambda Studio™ gives you the ability to hear your analog input signals directly
and immediately while recording, without having to adjust levels in software, and
before the delay caused by digital converters and computer recording latency. This
zero-latency analog monitoring is controlled by the Monitor Mix knob, which you
can use to adjust the blend between the Lambda Studio’s live analog inputs (called
“Direct”) and any sounds coming back from the computer via USB (“Playback”).
To adjust the playback mix coming back from the computer (previous tracks, effect
returns etc.), use the faders on the Mixer screen of the software. To hear only the live
source input signals plugged into the Lambda Studio, turn the Monitor Mix knob
fully left to Direct. To hear only the mix from the computer, turn the Monitor Mix
knob fully right to Playback. The output from the Monitor Mix control is routed
directly to the Line and Headphone outputs. This ability to easily control the relative
levels of computer audio playback and latency-free live analog inputs is very useful
when overdubbing.

Output Level
This knob controls the overall output level of the Lambda Studio’s Line and Headphone
outputs.

INput bargraph meter

This LED Meter shows the signal level going into the A/D converters. When the Input
Bargraph Meter’s Clip LEDs illuminate, input signals are clipping the A/D converter.
Adjust the gain with the Mic and Line knobs so that the -6 dB LED flashes only occa-
sionally.

USB LED
When the blue USB LED is on, it shows the Lambda Studio is powered and communi-
cating with your computer via USB, and audio and MIDI signals can pass in and out
of the system.

+48V phantom power LED

This LED indicates that 48 volt phantom power is active on the Mic 1 and Mic 2 inputs,
providing phantom power for condenser microphones that require it to operate. Turn
phantom power on or off as needed with the switch labeled +48V on the rear panel.

⁄8" Headphone Output Jack

1

The high powered Headphone output accommodates stereo headphones with an 1⁄8"
stereo plug.

¼" Instrument Input Jack

This ¼" jack accepts unbalanced, low-level, high impedance instrument sources such
as electric guitar, acoustic guitar with a pickup, and electric bass. The input gain is
adjusted using the Line 1 knob on the front panel. When an instrument is plugged into
this input, it disables the Line 1 audio input on the rear panel.

11
The Rear Panel

1 Line 2
In

Line In 1-2
1 Insert 2

Insert 1-2

Lambda Studio is

Lexicon Pro, Inc.

a trademark of
Mic 1
Mic 1-2 Inputs

Mic 2

Left/Right Line Outputs

L Line Out R
+48 V

+48V Phantom Power Switch

In

MIDI In and Out MIDI

Out

USB Port

The REAr Panel

The Lambda Studio™ rear panel offers the following features:

Line In 1-2
These ¼" inputs can accept both balanced (3-conductor TRS) and unbalanced (2-
conductor TS or instrument) audio sources. Each input gain is adjusted individually
using the Line 1-2 gain knobs on the front panel.

Insert 1-2
Each mic input is equipped with a TRS insert point. Inserts provide a send and return
of the input channel’s signal directly after the mic preamp and before the A/D convert-
er. You can insert any line level signal processor (such as a compressor or equalizer)
to pre-process the mic signal before it is recorded, using a standard “stereo splitter”
IMPORTANT:
(single TRS to two TS) cable. The tip is send and the ring is return.
Do not plug a line
Mic 1-2 Inputs
output into the Mic
These balanced XLR inputs feature high-quality mic preamps designed specifically for
In jacks unless the
low-impedance professional microphones. The input gain is adjusted using the Mic
+48 V (phantom)
1-2 gain knobs on the front panel respectively, with 44 dB of gain at the maximum
switch is turned OFF
setting.
to avoid damage.
left/right Line Outputs
These outputs support balanced TRS or unbalanced TS ¼" connections. These
outputs can be connected to a mixing board, power amplifier, powered studio monitors,
recorder, or another line level input.

MIDI In and Out

The MIDI jacks provide MIDI input and MIDI output to and from your computer.
Connect your MIDI keyboards, sound modules, and external controllers here.

12
 Connecting to the Lambda Studio

+48V phantom power Switch

This enables the phantom power to the Mic 1 and Mic 2 inputs. Dynamic IMPORTANT:
microphones do not require phantom power to operate, but are not harmed by Do not plug a line
it. Most condenser microphones do require phantom power to operate. If you are output into the Mic
unsure about the phantom power requirements for your microphone, consult your In jacks unless the
microphone’s documentation or contact the manufacturer. This switch should be +48 V (phantom)
OFF if you are connecting any line-level source to the Mic In jacks. switch is turned OFF
to avoid damage.
USB Port
The USB Port is used to connect the Lambda Studio™ to your computer and pro-
vides the Lambda Studio hardware with power. A standard USB cable is included. The
Lambda Studio supports USB 2.0 full speed.

Connecting to the lambda

studio™
The Lambda Studio is both a 4 x 2 x 2 mixer and a USB audio/MIDI interface that can
be used in a variety of audio setups. This section describes how to make basic connec-
tions for the following applications:
• Monitoring Audio
• Recording Audio
• Connecting a Recorder for Mixdown

Monitoring connections
The Lambda Studio allows you to monitor audio both from the hardware inputs
(Direct) and from the computer (Playback). Use the Monitor Mix control to bal-
ance between the direct audio and playback audio from your computer (For a com-
plete description of the Monitor Mix control, see page 11).

You can listen to (or monitor) the audio through either the 1⁄8" Headphone jack
on the front panel, or through studio monitors using the ¼" L/R Line Out jacks on
the rear panel, or both. The output level of both the L/R Line Out jacks and the
Headphone jack are controlled with the Output Level knob above the Headphone jack
on the front panel.

Lambda Studio’s L/R Line Outputs have a nominal output of +4dBu, and support both
balanced (¼" TRS) or unbalanced (¼" TS) connections.

Connecting headphones:
1. Connect headphones to the Headphone jack located on the front panel of the
Lambda Studio. The Headphone jack accepts an 1⁄8" TRS connector.
2. Adjust headphone volume with the Output Level knob.

Connecting to monitor speakers:

1. Using ¼" cables, connect the L/R Line Out jacks on the rear panel of the Lambda
Studio to the appropriate inputs on your mixer, power amp, or powered monitors.
2. Adjust the Lambda Studio's output volume with the Output Level knob. If using

13
 About Recording Connections

both headphones and monitor speakers, adjust the level of the external power amp
or speakers using their gain controls after you’ve set the desired level in your head-
phones.

Connecting to a home stereo

Connect the Line Out 1-2 jacks on the rear panel of the Lambda Studio™ to the
appropriate inputs on your stereo, typically the Tape In or Aux In jacks, using a ¼"
to male phono (RCA) connector or adapter. Keep the Output Level knob on the
Lambda Studio low at first, raising it slowly to match the level of other units connected
to the stereo.

about Recording connections

Analog audio signals are created by microphones, synthesizers, mixers, and instru-
ments with magnetic pickups.

Of these sources, microphones and magnetic instrument pickups have the lowest
output level, and generally require the most amplification. Keyboards, preamps, and
mixers output “line level” audio, which varies with each device between the -10 dBV
and +4 dBu standards.

To connect a microphone
Plug an XLR cable directly from a microphone into the desired Mic input on the
IMPORTANT: Lambda Studio rear panel.
Do not plug a line
To activate Phantom Power
output into the Mic
If your microphone requires phantom power, first make sure the microphone is
1-2 jacks unless the
connected, then press the Phantom Power switch (labeled +48V). The +48V
+48 V (phantom)
Phantom Power LED on the front panel indicates the phantom power is active. If
switch is turned OFF
your mics don’t need phantom power, it is best to leave it off.
to avoid damage.
Using the Analog Inserts
The analog inserts require a ¼" TRS to 2 x ¼" TSadapter cable. The
signal from the tip should be routed to the input of your outboard processor and
the output of your processor should be routed to the ring.
External FX Processor

To External Processor Input

To External Processor Input
T
Tip
T
Tip (tip
(tip = send)
= send)

Ring
Ring

From External Processor Output

To Lambda
T Insert
To Lambda Insert From External Processor Output
(ring = return)
(ring = return)

14
 Mixdown Connections

TO CONNECT A LINE LEVEL SOURCE

Plug a ¼" TS (unbalanced) or TRS (balanced) cable directly from the line level For the cleanest
source into the desired Line In jack on the rear panel of Lambda Studio. Line level recording, adjust the
sources include keyboards, drum machines, CD and cassette players, or external Gain so the level
microphone preamps and effects. If the line level source has something other than ¼" reaches at least -6 on
outputs, cable adapters can be used. the input bargraph
meter, but never
TO CONNECT AN INSTRUMENT lights the “Clip” LED
Plug a standard ¼" TS (instrument) cable directly from the instrument into the on the loudest sound
Instrument input jack on the front panel of Lambda Studio. Note that this will dis- you’ll be recording. If
able the Line In 1 jack on the back panel. you see the Peak LED
light constantly, turn
Mixdown Connections the Gain knob down
After you record and mix your sessions in either Cubase® LE 4 or other recording until it flashes only
software, you may want to mix them down to a DAT, audio cassette, or other stereo occasionally, on the
2-track recording device. loudest part of the
performance.

DO NOT TURN
DOWN A GAIN
CONTROL TO GET
THE RIGHT MIX IN
Mixdown Deck Headphones YOUR HEADPHONES
OR MONITORS
WHILE RECORDING.
USE THE MONITOR
MIX CONTROL FOR
Connecting to an external recorder
THIS PURPOSE.
Connect the Line Out L-R jacks on the back of the Lambda Studio™ to the left
and right inputs, respectively, on your recorder (cassette deck, CD burner, or other
recorder with analog inputs). You may need adapter cables if your mixdown deck
has RCA input jacks. Refer to your recorder's operator's manual for more information
about setting recording levels.

If you are connecting to an analog mixdown deck (such as a cassette recorder), start
with the Output Level knob on the Lambda Studio at about the 12 o’clock (straight
up) position, and the recorder’s input level also at or near 12 o’clock. Adjust the
Output Level knob on the Lambda Studio until the meters on your recording deck
(NOT the Lambda Studio) read consistently between 0dB to +4dB, raising the input
level control on the recorder if necessary.

If you are connecting to a digital recorder such as a DAT or CD recorder, set the input
level(s) on the recording device all the way open, to their maximum setting, and
then adjust the Output Level knob on the Lambda Studio until the meters on your
recording deck device consistently peak just below the 0dBFS (Full Scale) mark with-
out causing clipping (going over the 0dBFS mark).

To hear the mix through control room speakers, connect the outputs of the recorder to
the inputs of the control room amplifier or powered monitors. Adjust the control room

15
Connections Diagram

level using the output level of the recording deck or the input level of the control room
amplifier or speakers.

MIXING WITHIN CUBASE® LE 4

You can mixdown directly within Cubase LE 4 or other recording software, and burn
an audio CD from that mix (provided your computer has a CD-R drive). Consult
the Cubase LE 4 online manual or documentation for your recording software for a
complete description of mixing within the software.

connections diagram

Windows® Software setup

You should consult the Software Installation Guide found on the Lambda Installer CD
to ensure the successful installation of the recording software and USB drivers.
If you haven’t already installed the Cubase LE 4 and Lexicon® Pantheon™ plug-in
software, please do so before continuing on to the next section. Follow the on-screen
instructions to install the USB drivers.

WINDOWS® vista and XP

You must install the USBdrivers after you’ve made the connection between your
computer’s USB port and the USB port of the Lambda Studio™.

16
 Macintosh Software Setup

macintosh® Software SetUp

You should consult the Software Installation Guide found on the Lambda Installer CD
to ensure the successful installation of the recording software.
If you haven’t already installed the Cubase® LE 4 and Lexicon Pantheon™ plug-in
software, please do so before continuing on to the next section.

Mac OS
A USB device must initialize itself with the host computer to operate correctly. The
Lambda Studio comprises multiple devices (audio and MIDI) and each of those
must be initialized. Some Apple® Macintosh® computers will not recognize all of
these devices if the Lambda Studio is connected to the USB port before the computer is
turned on. The simplest way to avoid problems is to connect the Lambda Studio to the
USB port after the computer is booted.

17
Using the Lexicon Lambda Studio™
®

Using the Lexicon Lambda

®

STUDIO™
1. Start Cubase® LE 4. The first time you use
Cubase LE 4 with the Lambda Studio™
you may be asked to run the Multimedia
test as shown here. Deselect the check box,
then click NO.

2. Cubase LE 4 may display the following

warning that the configuration has not
been tested. Click OK.

3. Once Cubase LE 4 opens, go to

Devices>Device Setup.

4. Under Devices, click on

VST Multitrack and select
Lambda ASIO (Lexicon
Lambda In/Out (2) on Mac)
if it is not already selected.
Click on Switch to select the
driver, then click OK. You are
now ready to begin recording
using your Lambda Studio and
Cubase LE 4.

18
 Recording Using the Microphone/Line Input

Section I – Recording audio With the Lambda Studio™

The diagram below shows how the Lambda Studio™ is connected for this particular
setup.

A. Recording using the Microphone/line Input

Line In
Mic Input 1

Plug your microphone cable into the Mic 1 XLR jack or line level audio source to the
Line 1 ¼" jack on the back of the Lambda Studio. If the mic needs phantom power,
engage the +48 V switch (on the back of the Lambda Studio).

Note: Remove phantom powered mics when not in use and turn off the phantom
power switch.

To set up the software to record:

1. Open Cubase® LE 4.

2. Click File and select New Project.

19
Recording Using the Microphone/Line Input

3. Select 24 Track Audio Recorder and click OK.

4. Select a location to store the project (or use the default location) and click OK.

20
 Recording Using the Microphone/Line Input

To set the input of the track to record:

1. Click the Project menu and select Add Track | Audio. When the Add Audio Track
dialog appears, click OK.

2. Click the Show Inspector button , located in the upper left corner of the
screen. The Inspector window appears on the left side of the screen.

21
Recording Using the Microphone/Line Input

3. In the Inspector, click the Left - Stereo In: box and select Stereo In - Left for
the track input source. (Stereo In - Left relates to Line 1/Inst, Stereo In - Right
relates to Line 2/Mic inputs.)

4. In the Track 1 window, the Record Enable button should already be red.
If it isn't, click it so that it turns red.

22
 Recording Using the Microphone/Line Input

5. In the Track 1 window, click the Input Monitoring button so that it is not
lit.

23
Recording Using the Microphone/Line Input

To check the input level from the microphone or Line Input:

1. If you are using a mic and have connected the Lambda Studio™ to some moni-
tors, turn them down or off to avoid feedback.

2. If you want to hear the audio source in headphones, turn up the Lambda
Studio™ Output Level knob and turn the Monitor Mix knob counter-clock-
wise (towards the Direct side), then press the Monitor Assign button between
Mic 1 and Mic 2 or Line 1 and Line 2 so it is in the Mono position. This will
let you hear output on both sides of your headphones when recording only one
microphone or line level source.

Input Louder Playback Louder

Playback Softer Input Softer

Monitor Mix Monitor Button

3. Speak or sing into the microphone or play the line level source while gradually
increasing the gain by turning up the Mic 1 or Line 1 knob until you see the
Peak LED light next to the Mic 1 or Line 1 knob flash occasionally. Check the
Input Bargraph Meter on the front of the Lambda Studio to make sure you are
not clipping the A/D converters (although it's okay to light the -6 LED occasion-
ally).

To start recording:

1. Click the Record button on Cubase® LE 4’s Transport control.

Record Button

2. Speak or play an instrument into the microphone or line input.

3. When you are finished recording press the Stop button.

Stop Button

4. Press Rewind and press the Play button to listen to the track you have just
recorded.

24
 Recording Using the Microphone/Line Input

Rewind and Play Buttons

5. Turn the Lambda Studio™ Output Level knob to adjust the listening volume,
and make sure the Monitor Mix knob is somewhere in the middle between Direct
and Playback.

To overdub a second track:

1. Click anywhere in the gray area (not on the buttons) of the Track 2 window
(labeled as Audio 02).

2. In the Inspector, click the IN: box and select IN 1 for Track 2's input. (IN 1 relates
to Mic 1 and Line 1, IN 2 relates to Mic 2 and Line 2).

3. In the Track 2 window, the Record Enable button should already be red.
If it isn't, click it so that it turns red.

4. In the Track 2 window, click the Input Monitoring button so that it is not
lit.

To set monitor levels for a comfortable listening level:

1. On the front of the Lambda Studio hardware, locate the Monitor Mix knob.

Input Louder Playback Louder

Playback Softer Input Softer

Monitor Mix

2. While playing back the recording, adjust the Monitor Mix knob to balance the
levels between direct input signal and recording playback. To make the direct
input louder than the recording playback in the headphones, turn the Monitor
Mix knob towards the Direct side. To make the recorded track louder, turn the
Monitor Mix knob towards the Playback side.

NOTE: Changing the Monitor Mix does not affect the recording level, only what
you hear while recording. You can also adjust the playback level and pan position
of the original track in your monitor by adjusting the controls for channel 1 within
Cubase® LE 4’s Mixer window.

25
Recording a Guitar Using the Instrument Input

3. Click on Record and record the second (overdubbed) track.

B. Recording a Guitar using the Instrument input

This section explains how to record using the ¼" Instrument input jack on the front
panel.

1. Plug your electric, acoustic, or bass guitar into the Instrument input jack on the
front of the Lambda Studio™ hardware.

Instrument Jack

The Instrument input uses the same recording channel as the Line 1 input;
anything plugged into the ¼" Line 1 input jack on the back of the Lambda
Studio will not be recorded when a cable is connected to the ¼" Instrument
input jack on the front panel.

NOTE: This jack is intended for electric guitar and bass, or acoustic instrument
pickups, not line-level signals such as the output of keyboards or a direct out from
a guitar amplifier. For those, use the Line 1-2 input jacks on the back of the
Lambda Studio hardware.

2. Press the Monitor Assign button between Line 1 and Line 2 knobs so that it
is in the Mono position.

Monitor Button

3. Open Cubase LE 4, go to File and select New Project>Default, and a project

location. (See Section I for more information.)

To set the input of the track to record from the 1-2 USB channels:

1. Click anywhere in the gray area (not on the buttons) of the Track 1 window

26
 Recording a Guitar Using the Instrument Input

(labeled as Audio 01).

2. In the Inspector, click the IN: box and select IN 1 for the track input source.

3. In the Track 1 window, the Record Enable button should already be red.
If it isn't, click it so that it turns red.

4. In the Track 1 window, click the Input Monitoring button so that it is not
lit.

5. Next, adjust the input gain of the Instrument input To set the input level, strum
the guitar while gradually turning up the Line 1 knob until the Peak LED lights
occasionally with the loudest signals. Check the Input Bargraph Meter on the
front of the Lambda Studio™ to make sure you are not clipping.

6. To begin recording, click the Record button on the Transport control. Play some
chords or notes on the guitar. When you are finished recording, click Stop, then
Rewind.

Record Button Stop Button

Rewind Button

7. Click the Play button to listen to the track you have just recorded.

Play Button

27
Recording MIDI with the Lambda Studio

Section II - Recording MIDI with the lambda studio™

The Lambda Studio™ also functions as a MIDI interface. This allows you to record MIDI
data into a MIDI track of Cubase® LE 4, and play that MIDI data back from the computer
into a keyboard, sound module or effects processor.

Here is an example of recording a MIDI track in Cubase LE 4 using a MIDI keyboard:

1. To record MIDI data into the computer, connect the MIDI out from the keyboard
to the MIDI In on the Lambda Studio. Connect the MIDI Out from the Lambda
Studio hardware to the MIDI in on the keyboard.

MIDI OUT goes to MIDI MIDI IN goes to MIDI

IN of the keyboard OUT of the keyboard

2. To hear your keyboard, you either need to run the line output of the keyboard to
one (mono) or two (stereo) Line inputs on the back of the Lambda Studio, or
use the keyboard's headphone output.

3. Open Cubase LE 4 and start a new default project. Click on the gray area (not on
the buttons) of the MIDI Track 1 window (labeled MIDI 01).

4. In the Inspector, click the IN: box and select Lexicon® USB MIDI.

5. Click the OUT: box and select Lexicon USB MIDI for the MIDI
outputs. Click the Record Enable button on MIDI track 1.

Record Button

6. Click the Record button on the Transport and play your keyboard. You are now
recording MIDI data from the keyboard. If you don’t see data in the track, check
the settings of the keyboard to make sure it’s set to transmit on the same MIDI
channel that Cubase LE 4 is set to receive on. In some cases, you may want to set
the keyboard to “local off” and set Cubase LE 4 to “Echo” mode. For more infor-
mation, consult the Cubase LE 4 online manual and your keyboard’s manual.

28
 Using Software Input Monitoring

Section III - Using software Input Monitoring

The previous examples have turned off Cubase® LE 4’s Input Monitoring software
switches while recording tracks, and used the Monitor Mix knob on the front of the
Lambda Studio™ hardware to directly monitor an input without latency. Software
monitoring lets you listen to software-based effects in real time and adjust the monitor
mix independently of the recording levels, but also introduces some latency (delay) into
the input signal. The amount of latency depends on the amount of buffers assigned in
the ASIO control panel. See page 32 for more information about adjusting buffer set-
tings.

1. When using Cubase LE 4’s input software monitoring with the Lambda Studio, you
will want to set the Monitor Mix knob all the way to the Playback side.

2. Click the Input Monitoring button on the track you are recording to. You
will now be able to hear your input. Now you can try assigning an effect on the
input. This example assigns a Pantheon™ reverb.

3. Click the Track Edit button.

29
Using Software Input Monitoring

4. Left click on an Insert space and select Earlier VST Plug-ins, Lexicon®, and
Pantheon™.

5. Select Lexicon® and Pantheon™.

6. Because this is an insert effect, move the Mix slider to 50% (see the Pantheon
manual for more details).

30
 Using Software Input Monitoring

7. Change the level to about -52dB. Now you will record with the Lexicon® Pantheon
Reverb on your track.

31
Adjusting the Buffer Settings

Section IV - Adjusting the Buffer Settings

Audio latency is the minimum time required for a computer to store recorded audio
from an audio interface into the recording application memory and playback that
same recorded audio back out audio interface output.

After the audio has been converted to the digital domain, it is passed to a buffer before
it is processed by the driver and then passed to the audio application. An audio buf-
fer is a reserved segment of memory used to hold this advance portion of audio data
to compensate for momentary delays in processing. The size of an audio buffer is
the maximum number of samples the buffer can hold. For sound coming from the
computer, there is an output buffer before the digital to analog conversion. "Buffering"
introduces latency, since a buffer needs to fill up by a certain amount before the data
can continue along the chain.

The buffers in Cubase® LE 4 were automatically set at a safe setting for your computer
when you installed the software. If you are using Input Monitoring, you may wish to
adjust the amount of buffering to reduce this latency, or perceived delay in the input
vs. output of audio. Lowering the buffers will lower the amount of latency when using
Input Monitoring. Setting the buffers too low will result in unwanted digital artifacts,
such as popping or crackling and possibly audio dropout. The faster the computer
(Hard Disk and CPU), the lower you will be able to adjust the buffer setting without
negatively impacting the audio. For more information, consult the Cubase online
documentation.

A. Adjusting the Buffers in Windows® Vista and xp

1. Open Cubase LE 4 and go to Devices>Device Setup.

2. Click on VST Multitrack.

3. Click the Control Panel button. You will now see the ASIO control panel.
Moving the Lambda Stream Reliability slider toward More CPU will decrease
any monitoring latency. If audio playback has artifacts (clicking, popping), move
this slider toward Less CPU until it stabilizes.

4. When you are finished adjusting the buffer size, click the OK button and return to
your project to test the results.

32
 Adjusting the Buffer Settings

B. Adjusting the Buffers in MAC® osX

1. Open Cubase LE 4 and go to Devices>Device Setup.

2. Click on VST Multitrack.

3. Click on Audio Buffer Size and select the Number of Samples.

4. When you are finished click OK.

33
Specifications

Specifications
Microphone Inputs: (2) Female XLR Pin 2 Hot
Input Impedance: 600 Ohms balanced
Phantom Power: +48 Volt
GAIN: +44 dB
EIN: −120 dB A-weighted @ 44dB gain (150 Ohm source impedance)
Maximum Input Level: 6.5 dBu
Frequency Response: +0, −0.5 dB 20 Hz - 20 kHz, ref. 1 kHz
THD+N: <.005%, 20 Hz - 20 kHz

Insert Inputs: (2) 1/4" TRS

Send Level (tip): +10 dBu maximum
Maximum Return Level (ring): +11 dBu maximum

Line Inputs: (2) 1/4" TRS balanced or unbalanced
Input Impedance: 20 kOhm balanced, 10 kOhm unbalanced
Maximum Input Level: +13 dBu
Frequency Response: +0, −0.5 dB 20 Hz - 20 kHz, ref. 1kHz
THD+N: <.009% A/D, 20 Hz - 20 kHz

Instrument Input: (1) 1/4" mono jack

Input Impedance: 1 MOhm unbalanced
Maximum Input Level: +8.5 dBu
Frequency Response: +0, −1 dB 20 Hz - 20 kHz, ref. 1 kHz
THD+N: <.0125% A/D

Line Outputs: (2) 1/4" TRS balanced or unbalanced

Level: +16 dBu maximum
Impedance: 1 KOhm Balanced, 500 Ohm Unbalanced
Headphone Output: (1) 1/8" stereo jack 20 mW per channel at 50 Ohms

MIDI Interface: 5 pin DIN connectors for MIDI in and MIDI out
Sample Rate: 44.1 kHz or 48 kHz (determined by computer application)
Dynamic Range: A/D (24 Bit) 96 dB typical, A-weighted, 20 Hz - 20 kHz
D/A (24 Bit) 100 dB typical, A-weighted, 20 Hz - 20 kHz
A/D/A (24 Bit) 95 dB typical, A-weighted, 20 Hz - 20 kHz
Power Requirements: USB powered
Dimensions: 6.5 x 6.7 x 3.4
Weight: 1.92 lbs.

Lexicon engineers are constantly working to improve the quality of our products.Specifications are therefore
subject to change without notice.

34
 Lexicon Lambda Studio™ Signal Routing Diagram
®

Lambda Signal Routing Diagram

35
 Lambda Desktop Recording Studio™
Harman Music Group Questions or comments?
8760 South Sandy Parkway | Sandy, Utah 84070 U.S.A. Email us at: [email protected]
Phone: (801)-568-7660 | Fax: (801)-568-7662 or visit our World Wide Web home page at: www.lexiconpro.com

Copyright 2005 Lexicon Professional® Part Number: 18-0350V-B

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