Tascam US-224 owner manual Appendix B Control Protocol, Purpose, Introduction, Functional Groups

Page 37

Appendix B – Control Protocol

Purpose

Provide simple, effective integration between the US-224 and host software applications.

Introduction

The US-224 provides digital audio I/O, MIDI, and control surface functions in a single affordable USB-based product. While the audio and MIDI I/O follow established which are easily interfaced with host applications, full integration of the control surface aspects of the US-224 requires a set of messages to be defined which permits two-way communication of control information between the host application and US-224.

Functional Groups

The US-224's control surface are divided into several major functional groups:

Transport and Locate switches and status LED's

Per-channel controls (faders, switches, and LED's)

Bank switching buttons and LED's

Function switches, LED's and continuous "data wheel"

Communication model

Standard MIDI controller and sysex messages will be used to communicate between the host and US-224. In many cases, the commands transmitted by the US-224 are identical to those generated by the JL Cooper CS-10 controller. In general, it is desired that overall system "state information" be maintained by the host application, rather than in the US-224. As an example, here is how a change in transport state from STOP to PLAY might be communicated:

User presses PLAY button on US-224.

Play-button command is sent via USB to host application as MIDI .

Application receives Play message from the "US-224 Control" Midi input device.

Application switches to PLAY mode, just as if user had performed the operation with a mouse-click.

Application sends Transport Update message to "US-224 Control" Midi output device, which is sent via USB to the US-224.

US-224 interprets transport-update command, and responds by activating the PLAY LED.

In this example, the US-224 doesn't "know" the state of the transport. It has simply sent command indicating the button-press, and responded to the transport-update command from the host by lighting the appropriate transport LED.

37

Page 36 Page 38
Image 37
Page 36 Page 38
Contents US-224 For U.S.A Important Safety PrecautionsSafety Instructions Tascam Declaration of ConformityTable of Contents Introduction FeaturesOverview What’s in the packagePower LED Input Monitor Switch and LED Controls and IndicatorsBank Switches and LEDs Front PanelRear Panel Power switch Digital In and OutFront Panel Descriptions Rear Panel Descriptions Power switchPhones jack MIC Input a and BSystem Requirements InstallationUS224Win98Install110.exe InstallationTo install under Win98SE or ME To install using Windows New Hardware Wizard To install under Win2K or Windows XPTuning Your PC Setting Up OMS MacOS OnlyIllustration 3.03 Enabling DMA on your IDE drives Page Hooking up audio Hooking up Audio and Midi to the US-224Hooking up Midi Using the Input MonitoringMaster Fader Monitor vs. Master LevelMain US-224 Control PanelChromatic Tuner Buffer Size AdjustmentAbout Buffer Sizing Illustration 5.03 The Chromatic Tuner Selecting the US-224 as your Audio Device Interfacing with your Audio SoftwareInput Enabling Setting the Sample Rate and Bit DepthTransport Controls and Locate Points Data Wheel Mute/SoloBank Controls and Fader Null ASIO2 Direct MonitoringPage Sample Recording Session in Cubasis Setting UpOverdubbing Recording Your TracksMixdown Other Applications and US-428 Emulation Mode MacOS Setting up Sound Manager Support for use withPage Technical Support TroubleshootingTech Support Contacts Audio DriversBefore Contacting Us Troubleshooting FAQsDon’t see the US-224 in Cubasis’ Audio Control Panel ’ve connected audio to the US-224, but can’t hear anythingFunction Transmitted Recognized Remarks Appendix a Midi Implementation ChartOYes Purpose Appendix B Control ProtocolIntroduction Functional GroupsTransportrec Transport/Locate command setPer-channel Control command set Continuous data wheel Bank-Switching Command SetUpdateasnled F0 4EUNIT 12 0FSTATE F7 Appendix C US-224 Technical Specifications Input impedance 75 ohm Input Level 0.5Vp-p Connector 5P DINOutput Impedance 75 ohm Output Level 0.5Vp-p AD/DA ConverterUS-224
Related manuals
Manual 2 pages 48.1 Kb Manual 4 pages 61.21 Kb

US-224 specifications

The Tascam US-224 is a compact and versatile audio interface designed to meet the needs of musicians, podcasters, and home recording enthusiasts. Launched as part of Tascam's innovative range of products, the US-224 is recognized for its ease of use, portability, and impressive sound quality, making it an ideal choice for those looking to record in various environments.

One of the standout features of the US-224 is its capability to connect directly to a computer via USB, allowing users to harness the power of digital audio workstations (DAWs). This seamless connectivity ensures low-latency performance, enabling users to record and monitor audio in real-time without distracting delays. The interface is compatible with both Mac and Windows operating systems, which broadens its appeal to a wide user base.

The US-224 is equipped with two high-quality microphone preamps, providing sufficient headroom for capturing a wide range of audio sources. These preamps are known for their clear, detailed sound reproduction, making them suitable for various applications, from vocal recordings to instrument captures. Additionally, the interface features phantom power for condenser microphones, ensuring flexibility in microphone choice.

Users will appreciate the integrated mixer on the US-224, which allows for easy control of audio levels and monitoring. The interface includes insert points and line inputs, offering further options for routing signals, whether for instruments or external processing equipment. The built-in MIDI input and output ports also enhance the interface’s versatility, allowing users to connect MIDI controllers and other devices for comprehensive music production.

The compact design of the US-224 makes it highly portable, a significant advantage for mobile recording setups. This lightweight interface can easily fit into a laptop bag, enabling users to capture high-quality audio anywhere. Furthermore, the durable construction of the unit ensures it can withstand the rigors of travel.

In summary, the Tascam US-224 stands out as a reliable audio interface packed with essential features for recording enthusiasts. Its excellent sound quality, robust connectivity options, and user-friendly interface make it a valuable tool for anyone looking to create professional-level recordings effortlessly. Whether in a studio or on the go, the Tascam US-224 provides an unyielding performance that meets the demands of modern audio production.
Top Page Image Contents