Safe Mode

 
 

Purpose:

The Safe Mode feature is integrated into your PlayAUDIO series interface to safeguard performers and audience members from potentially harmful audio levels. Activation of Safe Mode is indicated by the display of a dedicated Safe Mode screen and alternating red LEDs within the Audio LED section on the front panel. Upon activation, all outputs, excluding the headphone output, will be automatically muted.

Trigger:

Safe Mode is initiated when the audio signal level of the designated Tone channel exceeds a critical threshold. This high level on the Tone channel may be indicative of a broader audio anomaly within the system. To prevent potential hearing damage, the interface automatically mutes the main outputs.

User Options:

When the Safe Mode screen is displayed, the "Next" option is pre-selected. Pressing the main encoder navigates to the subsequent options page, which presents the following choices:

  • Check: Selecting this option displays the current audio levels for all outputs, including the Tone channel. This diagnostic view is crucial for identifying the source of the excessive audio level. If all channels exhibit maximum levels, it may suggest a systemic issue generating unwanted audio. In such cases, unmuting outputs or disabling Safe Mode is not recommended. If only the Tone channel displays excessive levels, refer to the subsequent troubleshooting steps.

  • Disable: This option deactivates the Tone channel level monitoring for the current power cycle. While this may provide a quick exit from Safe Mode and allow unmuting, it is imperative to first verify the levels of other channels using the "Check" function to ensure no other audio issues are present. Note that this setting is temporary and will be re-enabled upon the next power-up of the PlayAUDIO interface.

  • Unmute: Selecting this option restores audio output to all main outputs. Prior to unmuting, it is essential to confirm that the excessive audio level is isolated to the Tone channel and that no other audio anomalies are present. Alternatively, the outputs can be unmuted by double-clicking the headphone knob on the PlayAUDIO interface.

Quick Resolution:

Upon Safe Mode activation, the primary step is to utilize the "Check" function to verify that the high audio level is solely affecting the Tone channel. If this is the case, the following steps can be taken:

  1. Access your Digital Audio Workstation (DAW).

  2. Reduce the output level of the channel strip, bus, or auxiliary send associated with the Tone channel. A reduction of approximately -12 dB is recommended as a starting point.

  3. Unmute the main outputs either by selecting the "Unmute" option on the Safe Mode screen or by double-clicking the headphone knob on the PlayAUDIO interface.

Exiting Safe Mode:

To return to the main operating screen of your PlayAUDIO interface, press the "Exit" LED located on the front panel of the unit.

Note: If excessive audio levels are observed on channels other than the designated Tone channel, please contact our support team for further assistance or consult the following article for troubleshooting guidance.
Tone check - Safe Mode

Note on Safe Mode and saving presets:

Safe mode is automatically enabled once firmware update 1.4.0 is applied.

Disabling Safe Mode via the Safe Mode menu will not persist through a power cycle unless Safe Mode is both disabled and saved to preset.

Once Safe Mode is disabled and saved to preset, only a factory reset can reenable Safe Mode.