5.The US-224 Control Panel

5.1 Main Page

In the Control Panel’s main page, you can specify a number of options of the US-224’s ASIO handling.

Illustration 5.01 - Control Panel Main Page

The Control Surface Protocol setting governs the type of MIDI messages used to send fader and button information from the US-224 to applications. The corresponding drop-down box allows you to select from US-224 Native or US-428 emulation modes. For more information US-428 emulation mode, refer to chapter 8. For use with most DAW applications, it’s recommended that you leave the default “US-224 Native” selection.

The Master Fader always sends changes in position via MIDI. It can also be used to make the US-224 itself change the output level coming from an application. (This is useful for programs that do not have their own master volume control, such as Sound Forge.) In Cubasis, select the MIDI only option.

The Input selector toggles the source of the US-224’s inputs from analog (via any of the mic or line inputs) to digital (via the S/PDIF input).

The Status area provides a view of the US- 224’s current settings:

Clock source:

Internal or Digital In

Sample rate:

44100 or 48000

Resolution:

24 Bit or 16 Bit

Digital input:

Signal:

Red - no digital input

Green - digital input active

Fmt:

Red - improper format

Green - proper S/PDIF format

Lock:

Red - digital in not ready to record,

Green - digital in ready to record

The Input Monitor area is a viewable and controllable version of the US-224 INPUT MONITOR mixer. Here you can control the level and position of each US-224 input as it will appear on the LINE OUTPUT, DIGITAL OUT, and PHONES connectors. Three controls (level, pan and mute) are available for both inputs. Note that these controls can also be changed from the US-224 by pressing the INPUT MONITOR switch on the unit, and using channel strips 1and 2. If you make the changes this way, the controls displayed in the US-224 Control Panel will be updated to reflect the new values.

Any settings shown in the input monitor section of this control panel can be saved as one of four Snapshots. To save your settings as snapshot number 1, for example. click on “Save” and then click on “1”. Any snapshot can then be recalled by just clicking on its corresponding button.

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Tascam owner manual US-224 Control Panel, Main

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.