6.5 Mute/Solo

The MUTE buttons toggle the Mute function in Cubasis’ VST Channel Mixer for the selected channel. When a channel is muted, there are two indications: the Mute button in the Cubasis VST Channel Mixer’s display will be activated, and the MUTE LED on the US-224 corresponding to the muted track(s) will be illuminated.

The SOLO switch works by toggling the status of the MUTE switches to SOLO mode. When the SOLO button is pressed and the SOLO LED is lit, the MUTE buttons act as SOLO buttons, soloing the selected channel(s). (See illustration 6.06)

6.6 Data Wheel

The DATA WHEEL acts as a continuous controller, and is capable of a variety of functions. In Cubasis, its default function is as a transport shuttle. Rotating the wheel clockwise will advance the song position forward, and rotating it counter-clockwise will move the transport backward. (Note: Use of the transport shuttle will cause a momentary drop-out in the audio as the

application re-syncs. This is normal operation in Cubasis.)

If a channel SELect switch is held down, the DATA Wheel will function as a PAN control for the SELected channel.

In other applications, the shuttle wheel can perform a number of other functions in US- 428 emulation mode. Please refer to the US-428 manual for more details.

6.7BANK Controls and FADER NULL

The BANK SELECT keys page between successive banks of four faders. Selecting any of the four faders will control the corresponding channel in the software’s internal mixer.

The US-224 will support an unlimited number of channels. It is only limited to the maximum amount of channels your audio software will support.

When changing to a different bank of faders, you may find that the fader on the US-224 is now out of position with the associated channel’s fader in Cubasis. Pressing the FADER NULL button will disengage the US-224’s faders from the program, allowing you to move the US-224’s fader to match the fader in the software’s internal mixer. The REC and SEL LED’s function as up/down indicators, guiding you to the correct fader position. For best results, it is recommended that FADER NULL function be utilized with the transport stopped.

6.8 ASIO2 Direct Monitoring

Some audio programs that can use ASIO 2 for audio input and output, such as Steinberg’s Cubase VST, support a feature called “Direct Monitoring.” This lets the program’s user interface control hardware input-to-output monitoring paths. Without Direct Monitoring enabled, the latency is controlled by your buffer size setting (see section 5.2) and your program can add effects such as reverb and EQ in both the monitor and record paths. With Direct Monitoring enabled the latency is ultra-low (less than 1.5ms), but you can’t hear effects in the monitor path (although they will be recorded if enabled).

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Tascam US-224 owner manual Mute/Solo, Data Wheel, Bank Controls and Fader Null, ASIO2 Direct Monitoring
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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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