FIFINE Ampli1 Sound Mixer User Manual

1. Introduction

The FIFINE Ampli1 is a versatile sound mixer and audio interface designed to elevate your recording and instrument creation to studio-level performance. It features comprehensive input and output options, including XLR/6.35mm microphone inputs with 48V phantom power for condenser microphones, dedicated instrument inputs, and direct monitoring capabilities. This manual provides detailed instructions for setting up, operating, and maintaining your Ampli1 to ensure optimal audio quality for podcasting, music recording, and other audio applications.

Figure 1: FIFINE Ampli1 Sound Mixer

2. Safety Information

• Read all instructions carefully before use.
• Keep the device away from water, moisture, and extreme temperatures.
• Do not attempt to open or modify the device. Refer all servicing to qualified personnel.
• Use only the provided power cable or a compatible USB-C cable.
• Avoid placing heavy objects on the device.
• Ensure proper ventilation to prevent overheating.

3. Product Overview

The Ampli1 features intuitive controls and clearly labeled ports for ease of use. Familiarize yourself with the layout below:

Figure 2: Ampli1 Control and Interface Diagram

Front Panel Controls:

• MIC/LINE 1: XLR/6.35mm combo input for microphones or line-level sources.
• 48V Phantom Power Switch: Activates 48V phantom power for condenser microphones.
• Instrument/Microphone Switch: Toggles input type for INST 2 between instrument and microphone.
• INST 2: 6.35mm input for instruments (e.g., guitar, bass) or microphones.
• Headphone Jack: 3.5mm output for monitoring audio.
• Headphone Volume Knob: Adjusts the volume of the headphone output.

Top Panel Controls:

• MIC Gain Knob (GAIN 1): Adjusts the input gain for MIC/LINE 1.
• INST Gain Knob (GAIN 2): Adjusts the input gain for INST 2.
• OUTPUT Vol. Knob: Adjusts the overall output volume to connected speakers.

Rear Panel Controls:

• Security Lock: For securing the device.
• Output Interface (RIGHT, LEFT): 6.35mm outputs for connecting to studio monitors or speakers.
• Type-C Port: USB-C connection for power and data transfer to a computer.

Audio Status Indicators:

The gain knobs feature LED indicators to provide visual feedback on input levels, helping to prevent distortion:

• Green: Moderate Level
• Orange: Close to Distortion
• Red: Distortion

Figure 3: Audio Status Indicators

4. Setup

Follow these steps to set up your FIFINE Ampli1 Sound Mixer:

4.1 Connecting to a Computer

1. Connect the provided USB-C cable from the Type-C Port on the rear of the Ampli1 to an available USB port on your computer (Mac or PC).
2. The device is plug-and-play and should be recognized automatically by your operating system.

4.2 Connecting Microphones

1. For dynamic microphones, connect the XLR or 6.35mm cable to the MIC/LINE 1 input.
2. For condenser microphones, connect the XLR cable to the MIC/LINE 1 input and activate the 48V Phantom Power Switch. The 48V indicator will illuminate.
3. Alternatively, a microphone can be connected to the INST 2 input using a 6.35mm cable. Ensure the Instrument/Microphone Switch is set to 'Microphone' mode.

Figure 4: Microphone Connections

4.3 Connecting Instruments

1. Connect your instrument (e.g., guitar, bass) via a 6.35mm cable to the INST 2 input.
2. Ensure the Instrument/Microphone Switch is set to 'Instrument' mode.

Figure 5: Instrument Connection

4.4 Connecting Output Devices

1. Headphones: Plug your headphones into the 3.5mm Headphone Jack on the front panel.
2. Speakers/Monitors: Connect your studio monitors or speakers to the RIGHT and LEFT 6.35mm Output Interfaces on the rear panel.

Figure 6: Hookup Flexibility Overview

5. Operating Instructions

5.1 Adjusting Input Gain

1. Turn the MIC Gain Knob (GAIN 1) for your microphone or the INST Gain Knob (GAIN 2) for your instrument.
2. Observe the audio status indicators around the gain knobs. Adjust the gain until the indicator is consistently green (Moderate Level). Occasional orange flashes (Close to Distortion) are acceptable, but constant orange or red (Distortion) indicates the gain is too high and should be reduced.
3. The Ampli1 supports gain up to 50dB, providing ample headroom for various microphones and instruments.

Figure 7: Input Gain Knobs and Indicators

5.2 Direct Monitoring

The Ampli1 features direct monitoring functionality to eliminate latency during recording:

1. Connect your headphones to the Headphone Jack.
2. Adjust the Headphone Volume Knob to a comfortable listening level.
3. You will hear your input signal directly from the mixer, without the delay introduced by your computer's software.

Figure 8: Direct Monitoring in Use

5.3 Adjusting Output Volume

Use the OUTPUT Vol. Knob on the top panel to control the overall volume sent to your connected speakers or studio monitors.

6. User Tips

• Gain Staging: Always set your input gain (MIC Gain 1, INST Gain 2) first, ensuring the indicators stay mostly green. Then adjust your output volume (OUTPUT Vol. Knob) and headphone volume.
• Condenser Mics: Remember to activate the 48V Phantom Power for condenser microphones. Dynamic microphones do not require phantom power.
• ASIO Drivers: While the Ampli1 is plug-and-play, for professional recording on Windows, installing a dedicated ASIO driver (if available from FIFINE's website) can significantly reduce latency and improve performance with Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs).
• Headphone Impedance: For optimal sound quality and volume, ensure your headphones' impedance is compatible with the Ampli1's headphone output. Most standard headphones will work well.

7. Troubleshooting

7.1 No Sound Output

• Check Connections: Ensure all cables (USB-C, microphone, instrument, headphones, speakers) are securely connected.
• Volume Levels: Verify that all gain knobs (MIC Gain 1, INST Gain 2), the Headphone Volume Knob, and the OUTPUT Vol. Knob are turned up.
• Computer Settings: Check your computer's sound settings to ensure the FIFINE Ampli1 is selected as the input and output device.
• 48V Phantom Power: If using a condenser microphone, ensure 48V phantom power is activated.

7.2 Distorted Audio

• Reduce Gain: Lower the MIC Gain 1 or INST Gain 2 until the audio status indicators are consistently green or occasionally orange.
• Check Source: Ensure the audio source (microphone, instrument) is not outputting an excessively hot signal.

7.3 Latency During Recording

• Use Direct Monitoring: Engage the direct monitoring function by listening through headphones connected directly to the Ampli1.
• Adjust Buffer Size: In your DAW's audio settings, try reducing the buffer size. Note that very low buffer sizes can strain your computer's CPU.
• ASIO Driver (Windows): If on Windows, ensure you are using an ASIO driver for your DAW, as this provides the lowest latency.

7.4 Device Not Recognized by Computer

• Reconnect USB-C: Disconnect and reconnect the USB-C cable. Try a different USB port on your computer.
• Restart Computer: Sometimes a simple restart can resolve recognition issues.
• Check Cable: Try a different USB-C cable to rule out a faulty cable.

8. Specifications

9. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the device. Do not use liquid cleaners or solvents.
• Storage: Store the Ampli1 in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures when not in use.
• Cable Care: Avoid bending or crimping cables excessively to prevent damage.

10. Warranty & Support

For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please contact FIFINE customer support through their official website or the retailer where you purchased the product. Please have your product model and purchase date available when contacting support.