1. Introduction
The Tascam US-122MKII is a USB 2.0 audio and MIDI interface designed for high-quality recording and music production. This device provides two XLR microphone inputs with phantom power, two 1/4" balanced line inputs (one switchable to guitar level), and MIDI input/output. It connects to your computer via USB 2.0 and offers up to 96kHz/24-bit audio resolution. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, and maintaining your US-122MKII.
2. Key Features
- Two XLR microphone inputs with switchable phantom power for condenser microphones.
- Two 1/4" balanced line inputs, with one input switchable for direct electric guitar or bass connection.
- MIDI input and output for connecting synthesizers and drum machines.
- USB 2.0 connectivity for high-speed data transfer to Mac or Windows computers.
- Up to 96kHz/24-bit audio quality for professional recordings.
- Zero-latency monitoring for direct sound playback during recording.
- Bus-powered operation via USB cable, eliminating the need for an external power supply.
- Durable aluminum case construction for portability and reliability.
- Includes Steinberg Cubase LE5 recording software (or similar bundled software).
3. Setup Guide
3.1 Package Contents
Before proceeding, ensure all items are present in the package:
- Tascam US-122MKII USB Audio/MIDI Interface
- USB Cable
- RCA Audio Cables (if included)
- Owner's Manual and other documentation
- Software CD (e.g., Cubase LE5)
Figure 3.1: Contents of the Tascam US-122MKII package, showing the interface, USB cable, RCA cables, and software discs.
3.2 Driver Installation
The US-122MKII requires specific drivers for proper operation with your computer. Always download the latest drivers from the official Tascam website for your operating system (Windows or macOS). Follow the on-screen instructions provided by the installer.
- Do not connect the US-122MKII to your computer yet.
- Visit the official Tascam support website and locate the drivers for the US-122MKII.
- Download the appropriate driver package for your operating system.
- Run the installer and follow all prompts.
- Restart your computer if prompted.
3.3 Hardware Connections
Connect the US-122MKII to your computer and audio equipment as follows:
- USB Connection: Connect the US-122MKII to an available USB 2.0 port on your computer using the provided USB cable. The unit is bus-powered, so no external power adapter is needed.
- Microphone Inputs: Connect microphones to the XLR inputs (MIC IN L/R) on the front panel. If using condenser microphones, ensure phantom power is enabled (see Section 4.1).
- Line/Guitar Inputs: Connect line-level instruments (e.g., keyboards) to the 1/4" LINE IN L/R jacks. For direct guitar or bass connection, use the LINE/GUITAR IN R jack and ensure the MIC/GUITAR switch is set to GUITAR.
- MIDI Connections: Connect MIDI devices (e.g., keyboards, drum machines) to the MIDI IN and MIDI OUT ports on the rear panel.
- Line Outputs: Connect your studio monitors or amplifier to the LINE OUT (RCA) jacks on the rear panel.
- Headphone Output: Connect headphones to the PHONES 1/4" stereo jack on the front panel.
Figure 3.2: Front panel connections and controls.
Figure 3.3: Rear panel connections.
3.4 Software Installation (Cubase LE5)
The US-122MKII typically includes a copy of Steinberg Cubase LE5. Install this software to begin recording and editing your audio.
- Insert the Cubase LE5 installation CD into your computer's optical drive.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to install the software.
- Register the software if required.
- Ensure your Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) software recognizes the Tascam US-122MKII as its audio and MIDI device. Refer to your DAW's manual for specific settings.
4. Operation
4.1 Input Level Adjustment
Adjust input levels to prevent clipping and ensure optimal recording quality.
- MIC (Phantom Power): For condenser microphones, press the PHANTOM POWER switch to ON. Adjust the MIC gain knob for the desired input level. The SIG/OL (Signal/Overload) indicator will light green for signal presence and red for overload. Aim for green, avoiding red.
- LINE/GUITAR: Adjust the LINE gain knob for line-level instruments or guitars. The SIG/OL indicator functions similarly.
4.2 Monitoring
The US-122MKII offers zero-latency monitoring, allowing you to hear your input signal directly without delay from the computer.
- MON MIX Knob: This knob blends the direct input signal (INPUT) with the playback signal from your computer (COMPUTER). Turn towards INPUT to hear more of your live input, and towards COMPUTER to hear more of your DAW's playback.
- PHONES/LINE OUT Knob: This controls the overall output level for both the headphone jack and the RCA line outputs.
- MONO Switch: When engaged, this switch sums the stereo input signal to mono for monitoring.
4.3 MIDI Operation
The MIDI IN and OUT ports allow communication with MIDI-compatible devices.
- Connect your MIDI controller's MIDI OUT to the US-122MKII's MIDI IN.
- Connect the US-122MKII's MIDI OUT to your MIDI device's MIDI IN.
- Ensure your DAW software is configured to recognize the US-122MKII's MIDI ports.
5. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the unit. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- Storage: Store the unit in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- Cable Management: Ensure cables are not excessively bent or strained to prevent damage.
- Software Updates: Regularly check the Tascam website for updated drivers and firmware to ensure optimal performance and compatibility.
6. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No sound from inputs. | Incorrect input selection; gain knobs too low; phantom power off for condenser mics; driver issue. | Check input source selection in DAW. Increase gain knobs. Enable phantom power if needed. Reinstall drivers. |
| No sound from outputs/headphones. | Output level too low; incorrect output routing in DAW; cable issues. | Increase PHONES/LINE OUT knob. Verify output routing in DAW. Check cable connections. |
| Distortion or crackling audio. | Input level too high (clipping); incorrect sample rate/buffer size; USB cable issue; driver instability. | Reduce input gain to avoid SIG/OL indicator turning red. Adjust buffer size in DAW settings. Try a different USB port/cable. Update or reinstall drivers. Unplug and replug the unit. |
| High latency during recording. | Buffer size too high in DAW; computer performance issues. | Reduce buffer size in your DAW's audio settings. Close unnecessary applications. Ensure your computer meets system requirements. Utilize zero-latency monitoring. |
| MIDI not working. | Incorrect MIDI connections; DAW not recognizing MIDI device; MIDI channel mismatch. | Verify MIDI IN/OUT connections. Check DAW MIDI device settings. Ensure MIDI channels match between devices and DAW. |
7. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Number | US-122MK2 |
| Hardware Interface | USB 2.0 |
| Number of Channels | 2 (Input/Output) |
| Audio Resolution | Up to 96kHz/24-bit |
| Microphone Inputs | 2 x XLR with Phantom Power |
| Line Inputs | 2 x 1/4" Balanced (one switchable to Guitar) |
| MIDI Interface | MIDI In, MIDI Out |
| Line Outputs | RCA (L/R) |
| Headphone Output | 1 x 1/4" Stereo Jack |
| Power Supply | USB Bus Powered |
| Dimensions | 7.5 x 5 x 2.5 inches (approximate) |
| Weight | 2.45 pounds (approximate) |
| Supported Software | Steinberg Cubase LE4 (or similar bundled software) |
| Operating System Compatibility | Windows, macOS (check Tascam website for specific versions) |
8. Warranty and Support
For detailed warranty information, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Tascam website. Tascam provides technical support and resources for their products. If you encounter issues not covered in this manual, please contact Tascam customer support or visit their online support portal for FAQs, driver downloads, and further assistance.
Official Tascam Website: https://tascam.com
