M-Audio MobilePre Audio Interface User Manual

1. Introduction

The M-Audio MobilePre is a portable USB audio interface designed to transform your Mac or Windows computer into a powerful recording and production studio. It enables easy recording of various sound sources such as guitars, vocals, and keyboards with clear audio quality. The device is compatible with a wide range of music creation software, including the bundled Pro Tools SE, GarageBand, Logic, Live, and Record.

2. Setup

2.1 Package Contents

• M-Audio MobilePre Audio Interface
• USB Cable
• Pro Tools SE Software (or equivalent bundled software)
• User Manual (this document)

2.2 Driver Installation

1. Before connecting the MobilePre to your computer, visit the official M-Audio website (www.m-audio.com) to download the latest drivers compatible with your operating system (Windows or macOS).
2. Run the downloaded driver installer and follow the on-screen instructions.
3. Restart your computer if prompted.

Important: Ensure your operating system is supported by the available drivers. Older hardware may not have drivers for the latest OS versions.

2.3 Hardware Connection

1. Connect the MobilePre to your computer using the supplied USB cable. The "Power" LED on the front panel should illuminate.
2. Connect your headphones to the 1/4-inch headphone jack on the front panel.
3. Connect your studio monitors or speakers to the "Line Outputs" on the rear panel using 1/4-inch TRS cables.
4. Connect microphones to the XLR/TRS combo jacks (Ch. 1 or Ch. 2) on the front panel.
5. Connect instruments (e.g., guitar, bass) to the 1/4-inch instrument inputs on the front panel.

Figure 2.3.1: Front Panel Overview. Shows two combo XLR/TRS inputs, gain knobs, headphone jack, and direct monitor controls.

Figure 2.3.2: Rear Panel Overview. Displays line outputs, line inputs, USB port, and the 48V phantom power switch.

2.4 Software Installation (Pro Tools SE)

1. Insert the Pro Tools SE installation disc into your computer's optical drive, or download the software from the M-Audio website if a download code was provided.
2. Follow the on-screen instructions to install the software.
3. Launch Pro Tools SE and configure the M-Audio MobilePre as your audio input/output device in the software's preferences or settings.

3. Operation

3.1 Input Gain Adjustment

• Connect your microphone or instrument to the desired input channel (Ch. 1 or Ch. 2).
• Slowly turn the corresponding "Gain" knob clockwise while monitoring your input signal.
• Adjust the gain until the "Sig" (Signal) LED illuminates steadily during performance, and the "Clip" LED only flashes occasionally during the loudest peaks. Avoid constant clipping to prevent distortion.

3.2 48V Phantom Power

• If you are using a condenser microphone that requires phantom power, locate the "48V Phantom Power" switch on the rear panel.
• Ensure the MobilePre is connected and powered on.
• Flip the switch to the "On" position. The 48V indicator on the front panel will light up.
• Caution: Do not activate phantom power when using dynamic microphones or ribbon microphones, as this can damage them.

3.3 Direct Monitoring

• The "Direct Monitor" button allows you to hear your input signal directly through the MobilePre's outputs with zero latency.
• Press the "Direct Monitor" button to activate this feature. This is useful for monitoring your performance without delay while recording.

3.4 Headphone and Line Output Levels

• Adjust the "Headphones" knob to control the listening volume through your connected headphones.
• Adjust the "Line Outputs" knob to control the volume sent to your studio monitors or speakers.

4. Maintenance

• Keep the MobilePre clean by wiping it with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or solvents.
• Do not expose the device to excessive moisture, dust, or extreme temperatures.
• When not in use, store the MobilePre in a safe, dry place to prevent damage.
• Ensure all cables are connected securely and are not under strain.

5. Troubleshooting

5.1 No Sound Output

• Check if the MobilePre is properly connected via USB and the "Power" LED is illuminated.
• Ensure the "Headphones" and "Line Outputs" volume knobs are turned up.
• Verify that the MobilePre is selected as the default audio output device in your computer's sound settings and within your recording software.
• Check all cable connections to your headphones and speakers.

5.2 No Input Signal Detected

• Ensure your microphone or instrument is correctly connected to the appropriate input jack.
• Turn up the corresponding "Gain" knob for the input channel.
• If using a condenser microphone, ensure 48V phantom power is activated (if required).
• Verify that the MobilePre is selected as the audio input device in your recording software.
• Check the "Front/Rear Input Select" buttons to ensure the correct input type is selected for each channel.

5.3 Software Not Recognizing MobilePre

• Confirm that the latest drivers for your operating system are installed.
• Restart your computer and the recording software.
• Try connecting the MobilePre to a different USB port on your computer.
• Check the audio device settings within your recording software to ensure the MobilePre is selected.

6. Specifications

7. Warranty and Support

For detailed warranty information, technical support, and the latest driver downloads, please visit the official M-Audio website or contact their customer support directly. This manual does not contain specific warranty terms or support contact details.