4.Hooking up Audio and MIDI to the US-224

4.1 Hooking up audio

To monitor output from your computer, connect the analog outputs of the US-224 to your mixer, amplifier or powered monitors. Output volume is controlled by the LINE OUT level pot. If you’ve got a digital mixer, external D/A converter, or other device with S/PDIF input, you may prefer to monitor via the US-224’s S/PDIF output.

Illustration 4.01 - Connecting audio to the US-224

To record audio from the US-224 into your computer, simply connect a device to the appropriate input. Microphones should be plugged into the INPUT A or B XLR inputs.

Note that the US-224 does not supply phantom power, so if you’re using condenser mics, you’ll need an external preamp or power supply. You can connect line-level sources (e.g., keyboards and sound modules) into one of the two LINE INPUTS (A or B). If you wish to plug in a guitar, bass, or other high-impedance source, simply move the sliding switch below the Input Trim control to the “Guitar” position. Finally, digital sources (e.g., CD players, DAT’s etc) may be connected to the

S/PDIF INPUT.

The inputs of channels A and B are available as either balanced XLR mic-level inputs, unbalanced (1/4”) line-level inputs, or S/PDIF digital inputs. Digital output is taken directly from the stereo output of your digital audio application. Digital input is chosen in the US-224’s Control Panel, as detailed in Section 5.1.

While it’s possible to use both mic and line level analog inputs simultaneously on either input, in actual practice this is not recommended, as the signal level of the inputs will be summed and very likely interfere with each other.

Inputs A and B are also switchable between the analog inputs and the S/PDIF digital input. The input source is selected in the US-224 Control Panel main page. (See section 5.1 for details).

Input level for analog sources is regulated by the TRIM level pots. NOTE: The INPUT A and B TRIM controls do not affect digital input. Sampled audio from the S/PDIF digital

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Tascam owner manual Hooking up Audio and Midi to the US-224, Hooking up audio
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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.
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