Ed,
Read this taken directly from steinbergs website.
Miss-leading information on Steinbergs website is:
“Because of the highly flexible driver architecture, both MR816 CSX and MR816 X models are fully compatible with each other and run daisy-chained together on the same system, allowing full flexibility in creating a customized system that offers the needed number of inputs, outputs and DSP capability.”
also :
“Up to three MR816s can be used simultaneously by connecting them in daisy-chain fashion to a computer via IEEE1394 cables. The number of available channels for input and output across the system can be easily expanded simply by adding up to two more MR816s. The MR816 supports up to 48 input and output channels — using only one FireWire port on the computer. All connected I/Os are recognized by Cubase simultaneously, with no additional setup required. Cubase also automatically assigns the correct I/O port configuration for one, two or three units, depending on how many are connected. Even when multiple MR816s are connected, parameters such as those for digital audio input/output”
Full flexibility implies we can do this…
With the previous MLan driver technology I had no issue with doing this…
This was a MAJOR selling issue on me upgrading from my O1X and i88x setup to the MR816 system… I was sold on the ability to work in the same manor as I used to but instead of using the O1X faders for setting the levels I would simply use the onboard mixer in cubase.
This along with the section stating : “True Integrated Monitoring: no latency and dynamic 1:1 hardware/software mirroring” Leads a buyer to believe they can achieve a 48 input system that is fully rout-able with direct monitoring.
I believe that if steinberg are not willing to make a “Fully Flexible and customizable system that offers the needed number of inputs, outputs and DSP capability” Then all people who have purchased the MR series units should be offered either a buy back scheme or some sort of compensation…
Since moving to the MR series my workflow has been hindered and my clients have suffered due to a system that does not truly offer what IS advertised.
Also the deafening silence on this matter from steinberg up until your direct correspondence with me was very disappointing.
I thank you for having the balls to at least now talk about this issue but I do feel in a way we as consumers have been mislead and deserve better…
I spoke to both the sales person who sold the gear to me who was under the impression that it would in fact do as advertised and also Mick Hughs here in Australia who mentioned this issue was raised as soon as the product was released yet NOTHING has been done to rectify it…
It is advertised as a feature and if you cant deliver the feature then we deserve a full refund so we can purchase a product that will give us what we are promised…
Once again I apologize for my up front and forward nature but I have had too many issues with steinberg in the last 12 months to hold my tongue any longer.
Thank you
Greg