Lokchonk UX22 USB Audio Interface User Manual

1. Introduction

The Lokchonk UX22 USB Audio Interface is a professional-grade sound card designed for high-quality audio recording, monitoring, and production. It supports up to 32-bit/192kHz resolution, making it ideal for studio recording, podcasting, live streaming, and singing. This manual provides detailed instructions on how to set up, operate, and troubleshoot your UX22 audio interface to ensure optimal performance.

Figure 1: Lokchonk UX22 USB Audio Interface

2. Product Features

The Lokchonk UX22 offers a range of features for versatile audio production:

• Professional Audio Quality: Supports up to 32-bit/192kHz high-resolution audio for professional monitoring and listening, ensuring your recordings retain all sound quality.
• 2-In/2-Out Connectivity: Features two combined XLR/MIC/LINE inputs with phantom power for recording guitar, vocals, or line input signals. Two independent TRS/TS (6.35 mm) stereo jacks connect to PA speakers, active monitors, amplifiers, and recording equipment.
• 48V Phantom Power & Microphone Preamp: Built-in 48V phantom power and microphone preamps with low distortion and ultra-low noise. Both mic preamps have independent volume control, signal indicators, overload indicators, and quick fade buttons.
• Zero-Latency Monitoring: Direct monitoring of input signals with zero delay.
• Plug & Play: Supports Mac OS and Windows XP or higher without the need for additional drivers.
• Software Compatibility: Compatible with popular recording software such as Avid Pro Tools, Ableton Live, and Steinberg Cubase.
• Portable Design: Small, ultra-portable size for music production on the go.

Figure 2: Key Technical Features

3. Package Contents

Please check the box for the following items:

• UX22 Audio Interface Sound Card (x1)
• USB Power Cable (x1)
• English User Manual (x1)

Figure 3: Items included in the package

4. Controls and Connections

4.1. Front Panel

Figure 4: Front Panel Layout

1. INPUT 1 & 2: Combination XLR/1/4" connectors for microphones, instruments, or line-level audio sources.
2. GAIN 1 & 2: Knobs to adjust the input level for INPUT 1 & 2.
3. SIG LED: Indicates the presence of an audio signal in the channel.
4. CLIP LED: Indicates that the audio signal in the channel is too loud. Turn the corresponding GAIN knob counter-clockwise until the CLIP LED no longer illuminates.
5. LINE/INST Selector: Designates line-level or instrument-level input source for the combination XLR/1/4" connectors.
6. LOOP BACK Switch: Selects whether to record accompaniment music sent from the USB.
7. STEREO/MONO Selector: Activates mono monitoring of audio signals connected to INPUT 1 and INPUT 2 when engaged.
8. DIRECT MONITOR Selector: Activates direct monitoring of input signals with zero latency (no delay) when engaged.
9. OUTPUT Knob: Adjusts the output level at the 1(L) & 2(R) OUTPUTS.
10. +48V LED: Indicates that +48V phantom power is engaged.
11. POWER LED: Indicates that the unit is powered on.
12. PHONES Output: Connect to headphones for playback and mixing.
13. PHONE Knob: Adjusts the output level at the PHONES (headphones) output.

4.2. Rear Panel

Figure 5: Rear Panel Layout

14. USB 3.0 Connector: Type-B connector. Connects to a computer via this port.
15. POWER SOURCE Switch: Selects the power supply between USB (Type-B port) or DC 5V (Type-C port).
16. DC 5V/2A Type-C Connector: For external power supply when not connected to a computer, or for stable power.
17. +48V ON/OFF Selector: Engages +48V phantom power for channel 1 (required for professional studio condenser microphones).
18. 1(L) & 2(R) OUTPUTS: Connect to powered studio monitors for playback and mixing.

5. Setup Instructions

Follow these steps to set up your Lokchonk UX22 Audio Interface:

1. Connect to Computer: Connect the UX22 to your computer using the provided USB 3.0 cable. Plug the USB-B end into the interface and the USB-A end into your computer.
2. Power Source Selection: Use the POWER SOURCE switch on the rear panel to select between USB power or external DC 5V power. If using an external DC 5V adapter (not included), connect it to the DC 5V/2A Type-C connector.
3. Driver Installation: The UX22 is designed to be plug-and-play for Mac OS and Windows XP or higher, meaning no additional drivers are typically required. If you encounter any issues, please check the manufacturer's website for potential driver updates.
4. Connect Microphones/Instruments:
   • For microphones, connect them to INPUT 1 or INPUT 2 using XLR cables. If using a condenser microphone, activate +48V phantom power using the +48V ON/OFF selector.
   • For instruments (e.g., guitar), connect them to INPUT 1 or INPUT 2 using 1/4" TS cables. Ensure the LINE/INST selector is set to 'INST' for instrument-level input.
5. Connect Output Devices:
   • Connect your powered studio monitors to the 1(L) and 2(R) OUTPUTS using 1/4" TRS/TS cables.
   • Connect headphones to the PHONES output for private monitoring.

Video 1: Lokchonk UX22 Audio Interface setup and connection demonstration.

6. Operating Instructions

6.1. Basic Operation

1. Power On: Once connected and powered, the POWER LED will illuminate.
2. Adjust Input Gain: Use the GAIN 1 and GAIN 2 knobs to set appropriate input levels for your microphones or instruments. Monitor the SIG and CLIP LEDs to avoid clipping (CLIP LED should not illuminate).
3. Adjust Output Level: Use the OUTPUT knob to control the main output volume to your studio monitors and the PHONE knob for headphone volume.

6.2. Recording Practice

The UX22 allows flexible recording scenarios:

• Recording Microphone, Guitar, and Computer Sound Simultaneously: Set the LOOP BACK switch to ON. This will capture all audio, including accompaniment music from your computer, along with your microphone and instrument inputs.
• Recording Microphone and Guitar Only (without computer sound): Set the LOOP BACK switch to OFF. This isolates your live inputs from any computer playback.

6.3. Monitoring

The UX22 provides direct monitoring to eliminate latency:

• Monitoring Computer Sound Only: When the LOOP BACK switch is OFF, you can directly monitor the computer's sound. However, microphone and guitar inputs will not be monitored.
• Monitoring All Inputs (Mic, Guitar, Computer): Press the DIRECT MONITOR switch to engage zero-latency monitoring of all active inputs and computer playback simultaneously.
• Listening to Live Recorded Sound: When reviewing a recording, ensure both the LOOP BACK and DIRECT MONITOR switches are OFF to hear only the playback from your recording software.

Figure 6: Applicable Scenarios

7. Technical Specifications

Figure 7: Product Dimensions

8. Troubleshooting

• No Sound/Distorted Sound:
  • Check all cable connections to ensure they are secure.
  • Verify that the correct input/output devices are selected in your computer's sound settings and recording software.
  • If the CLIP LED is illuminated, reduce the corresponding GAIN knob to prevent signal clipping.
  • Ensure the OUTPUT and PHONE knobs are turned up to an audible level.
  • If using a condenser microphone, ensure +48V phantom power is activated.
• Compatibility Issues (Android/Linux): The UX22 is officially supported on Mac OS and Windows XP or higher. Compatibility with Android, Linux, or other operating systems is not guaranteed. Users may experience limited functionality or require specific configurations/drivers not provided by the manufacturer.
• USB 3.0 vs. USB 2.0: The product is advertised with a USB 3.0 interface. While the connector visually resembles a USB 2.0 Type-B port, it is designed for USB 3.0 data transmission. Ensure your computer's USB port is functioning correctly.
• Driver-Related Issues: Although advertised as plug-and-play for supported OS, some users have reported needing to install drivers. If you experience connectivity or functionality problems, visit the manufacturer's support page for potential driver downloads.
• Recording Bit Depth Discrepancy: The product supports up to 32-bit/192kHz for monitoring and listening. However, some user reports indicate that recording might be limited to 16-bit. If 24-bit or 32-bit recording is critical for your workflow, verify the actual recording bit depth with your specific software and operating system.
• Software Compatibility (e.g., Reaper): While compatible with major DAWs like Pro Tools, Ableton Live, and Cubase, specific compatibility with other software (e.g., Reaper) may vary. Ensure your software is updated and configured correctly to recognize the UX22.

9. User Tips

• For optimal guitar sound, remember to engage the INST switch when connecting your instrument.
• Carefully manage the LOOP BACK and DIRECT MONITOR switches based on whether you want to record computer audio, monitor live inputs, or listen to playback.
• If using an external 5V DC power source, ensure it provides sufficient amperage (2A) for stable operation.
• Always check your recording software's input/output settings to ensure the UX22 is selected as the primary audio device.

10. Warranty and Support

For detailed warranty information, technical support, or to download the latest drivers and software, please refer to the official product page or contact Lokchonk customer service.

A comprehensive user manual in PDF format is also available for download: Download PDF Manual