Connect your audio sources to the US-224. Connect an analog source via the XLR or 1/4” inputs, or a digital source via the S/PDIF input.

7.2 Recording Your Tracks

In Cubasis, choose the input(s) you wish to enable on the US-224. In the Audio menu, select Input, and click on the input pair on the US-224. The green Input icons will light in VST’s Input window for active inputs.

Select the Audio track(s) to record to by highlighting that track in the Arrange window.

NOTE: If this is the first track recorded in a given project, Cubasis will probably respond with a dialog box asking you for a path to save the audio files. It is highly recommended that you create a unique folder for each song or project, as audio

.WAV files can accumulate very quickly on your hard disk, and keeping them organized can get pretty complicated.

Once you’ve enabled your tracks, you’ll want to monitor audio through them to set your levels. Open Cubasis’ Monitor Mixer (Audio/Monitor menu), and make certain you’ve assigned your channel inputs and enabled them. You should see audio signal on those channels’ meters (assuming you’re sending signal from your source).

If your input signal is too high, the OL LED will glow steadily red. If the signal level is too low, you might only see a flicker, or nothing at all, on the SIGNAL LED.

You can regulate the input level of the input source in several ways. First, make sure that the signal you’re sending to the US-224 is within a reasonable range – it should illuminate the green SIGNAL LED, but the

red OL LED should only flicker occasionally. You can then fine adjust the level with the TRIM knobs for the selected channel(s).

NOTE: The SIGNAL and OL LED’s do not function with digital input.

In the case of digital input, input level is regulated by the output level of the source, and passed directly to the software application without modification.

On Cubasis’ Transport Bar, you can enable the recording to drop in or out of Record based on the locate points you’ve set. If you do not wish to enable this function, make certain the buttons for drop in and drop out are not enabled.

Press the RECORD button on the US-224. If you’ve got the metronome’s Count-off function enabled, you’ll hear a one or two bar countoff, and then the program will enter Record mode. It will stop recording when it reaches the drop out point, or if none is enabled, when you hit the STOP button.

Cubasis will now create a display of the track(s) you’ve just recorded. This can take a few seconds to a few minutes, depending on how long the recorded tracks are and how many there are. You’ll then see the tracks appear in your arrange window.

7.3 Overdubbing

To overdub more tracks, simply select and enable additional tracks as you did the previous ones, and repeat the procedure. You can monitor the tracks you’ve already recorded via the US-224’s outputs, while recording additional tracks into Cubasis via the US-224’s inputs. Be sure to assign each track to its own channel in the program’s internal mixer. For more information on Cubasis’ mixer functions, including groups and output assigns, please refer to the Cubasis manual.

When overdubbing, you can also select the INPUT MONITOR mode by pressing the INPUT MONITOR button on the US-224.

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Tascam US-224 owner manual Recording Your Tracks, Overdubbing
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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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