Tascam US-144MKII USB Audio Interface User Manual

Introduction

This manual provides essential information for the proper setup, operation, and maintenance of your Tascam US-144MKII USB Audio Interface. The US-144MKII is a compact, bus-powered USB 2.0 audio/MIDI interface designed for high-quality recording on Mac and Windows computers. It offers two microphone inputs with phantom power, two line inputs, a switchable guitar input, MIDI I/O, and S/PDIF digital audio I/O, supporting up to 96kHz/24-bit audio resolution.

Please read this manual thoroughly before using the device to ensure safe and optimal performance.

Safety Information

Always observe the following safety precautions to prevent electric shock, short circuit, damages, fire, or other hazards.

• Do not open the unit or attempt to disassemble the internal parts or modify them in any way.
• Do not expose the unit to rain, use it near water or in damp or wet conditions, or place containers on it containing liquids which might spill into any openings.
• If the USB cable becomes frayed or damaged, or if the unit is dropped or damaged, disconnect the USB cable immediately and have the unit inspected by qualified service personnel.
• Do not place the unit in a location where it may be exposed to excessive dust, vibrations, extreme cold or heat, or direct sunlight.
• Ensure proper ventilation around the unit during operation.

Package Contents

Verify that your package contains the following items:

• Tascam US-144MKII USB Audio Interface unit
• USB 2.0 Cable
• Installation CD (for drivers and bundled software like Steinberg Cubase LE4)
• User Manual (this document)

Product Overview

Front Panel

The front panel of the US-144MKII features all primary controls and input jacks for easy access during recording and monitoring.

• INPUT Knob: Adjusts the input gain for the microphone and line inputs.
• MON MIX Knob: Blends the direct input signal with the computer playback signal for zero-latency monitoring.
• LINE OUT Knob: Controls the output level to your studio monitors.
• PHONES Knob: Adjusts the headphone output level.
• MONO Switch: Sums the stereo input signal to mono for monitoring.
• MIC/LINE Inputs (L/R): XLR/TRS combo jacks for connecting microphones or line-level instruments.
• PHANTOM Power Switch: Activates +48V phantom power for condenser microphones.
• SIG/OL Indicators: Lights green when a signal is present, red when the input is overloading.
• LINE/GUITAR IN (R): 1/4-inch input for line-level or high-impedance guitar/bass signals.

Rear Panel

The rear panel provides various connectivity options for your studio setup.

• LINE OUT (L/R): RCA outputs for connecting to powered studio monitors or an amplifier.
• MIDI IN/OUT: 5-pin DIN connectors for connecting MIDI devices such as keyboards or drum machines.
• DIGITAL IN/OUT (S/PDIF): Coaxial RCA connectors for digital audio input and output.
• USB Port: Connects the interface to your computer for data transfer and power.

Setup

Driver Installation

Before connecting the US-144MKII to your computer, it is crucial to install the latest drivers. The included CD may contain outdated drivers. For optimal performance and compatibility, always download the most current drivers directly from the official Tascam website. This ensures proper functionality and avoids potential issues, especially with newer operating systems.

1. Visit the official Tascam support website.
2. Locate the support page for the US-144MKII.
3. Download the appropriate driver for your operating system (Windows or macOS).
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to install the driver. Do not connect the US-144MKII until prompted by the installer, or until the installation is complete.

Connecting the Interface

1. Connect the US-144MKII to your computer using the supplied USB 2.0 cable. The unit is bus-powered, so no external power adapter is required.
2. Connect your microphones to the MIC/LINE Inputs (L/R) using XLR cables. If using condenser microphones, ensure the PHANTOM Power switch is engaged.
3. Connect line-level instruments (e.g., synthesizers) to the MIC/LINE Inputs (L/R) using 1/4-inch TRS cables, or a guitar/bass to the LINE/GUITAR IN (R).
4. Connect your studio monitors to the LINE OUT (L/R) RCA jacks.
5. Connect headphones to the 1/4-inch headphone jack on the front panel.
6. If using MIDI devices, connect them to the MIDI IN/OUT ports.

Operating

Basic Recording Workflow

1. Power On: Connect the US-144MKII to your computer via USB. The unit will power on automatically.
2. Software Setup: Open your Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) software (e.g., Cubase LE4, included). Go to the audio settings/preferences and select the Tascam US-144MKII as your audio input and output device.
3. Input Gain Adjustment: Connect your microphone or instrument. Speak into the microphone or play your instrument at the loudest expected level. Adjust the INPUT knob until the SIG/OL indicator lights green consistently, only occasionally flashing red on peaks. Avoid constant red illumination, which indicates clipping.
4. Monitoring:
   • For zero-latency monitoring, adjust the MON MIX knob. Turning it towards "INPUT" increases the direct signal from your microphone/instrument, while turning it towards "COMPUTER" increases the playback from your DAW. Find a balance that allows you to hear both clearly without delay.
   • Adjust your headphone volume using the PHONES knob and monitor speaker volume using the LINE OUT knob.
5. Recording: Create a new audio track in your DAW, select the appropriate input (e.g., Input 1 for Mic L), and arm the track for recording. Press record in your DAW to begin.

Using Phantom Power

If you are using a condenser microphone, it requires +48V phantom power. Ensure the microphone is connected before activating phantom power. Press the PHANTOM power switch on the front panel. The corresponding LED will illuminate. Always disengage phantom power before disconnecting condenser microphones.

MIDI Connectivity

The US-144MKII includes MIDI In and Out ports. Connect your MIDI keyboard, controller, or other MIDI devices to these ports. Your DAW software will recognize the US-144MKII as a MIDI interface, allowing you to send and receive MIDI data for controlling virtual instruments or external hardware.

Maintenance

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the exterior of the unit. Do not use abrasive cleaners, waxes, or solvents.
• Storage: When not in use for extended periods, disconnect the USB cable and store the unit in a clean, dry place away from extreme temperatures.
• Cable Care: Avoid bending or crimping USB and audio cables excessively. Store them neatly to prevent damage.

Troubleshooting

• No Sound/Device Not Recognized:
  • Ensure the latest drivers are installed from the Tascam website.
  • Verify the USB cable is securely connected to both the interface and the computer. Try a different USB port or cable.
  • Check your computer's sound settings and your DAW's audio preferences to ensure the US-144MKII is selected as the input/output device.
  • Restart your computer and the interface.
• Latency Issues (Delay in Monitoring):
  • Utilize the MON MIX knob for zero-latency hardware monitoring.
  • In your DAW, reduce the buffer size in the audio settings. Lower buffer sizes reduce latency but require more CPU power.
  • Ensure your computer meets the minimum system requirements for your DAW and the interface.
• Noisy Sound/Interference:
  • Check all cable connections for security and integrity.
  • Ensure proper gain staging; avoid setting input levels too high, which can cause clipping and distortion.
  • Try using a different USB port, preferably one directly on your computer's motherboard rather than a hub.
  • Keep the interface away from other electronic devices that might cause interference.
• Interface Disconnects on Mac Sleep:
  • This can be a known behavior with some Mac systems. Try adjusting your Mac's energy saver settings to prevent USB ports from sleeping.
  • If the issue persists, you may need to unplug and re-plug the USB cable, and re-select the interface in your DAW's preferences after your Mac wakes up.
• Phantom Power Issues:
  • Ensure the microphone is properly connected before engaging phantom power.
  • Verify the microphone itself is functional and requires +48V phantom power.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Tascam website. You can find detailed support resources, FAQs, and contact information for customer service there.

Tascam Official Website: https://tascam.com/us/