StarTech ICUSBAUDIO2D

StarTech.com USB Sound Card User Manual

Brand: StarTech

Model: ICUSBAUDIO2D

Product Overview

The StarTech.com ICUSBAUDIO2D External USB Sound Card provides a convenient solution to add S/PDIF digital audio output and standard 3.5mm analog audio/microphone connections to your system via USB. This device allows you to bypass or replace an internal sound card without needing to open your computer case. It supports high-quality audio with 96kHz / 24-bit sampling rates for both playback and recording, and includes a 3.5mm S/PDIF port with support for Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound (AC3) and DTS Pass-through (Windows only). The adapter also features an integrated 3.5mm 4-position TRRS connection for headphones or combination headset/microphone, an external volume control, a hardware EQ switch for bass or treble boosting, and an LED status bar to display the current sampling rate.

StarTech.com USB Sound Card with SPDIF Digital Audio and Stereo Mic

Figure 1: Front view of the StarTech.com USB Sound Card (ICUSBAUDIO2D), showing the USB cable, main unit with volume knob, headphone and microphone jacks, and LED indicators.

Setup and Installation

This external USB sound card is designed for easy plug-and-play installation on most modern operating systems, including Windows and Mac OS X. Drivers are typically installed automatically upon connection.

Connecting the Device

Connect to Computer: Plug the USB connector of the sound card into an available USB port on your computer (laptop or desktop PC).

Close-up of the USB connector of the sound card

Figure 2: Close-up view of the USB connector, ready for connection to a computer's USB port.

Connect Audio Output:
- For digital audio, connect an S/PDIF cable (not included) from the S/PDIF Line-Out port on the sound card to your digital audio receiver or speakers.
- For analog audio, connect your headphones or speakers to the 3.5mm headphone jack (marked with a headphone icon).
Connect Microphone (Optional): If using a separate microphone, connect it to the 3.5mm microphone jack (marked with a microphone icon). If using a 4-position TRRS headset (combined headphone/mic), plug it into the 3.5mm headphone jack.

Rear view of the StarTech.com USB Sound Card showing SPDIF port and EQ switch

Figure 3: Rear view of the sound card, highlighting the S/PDIF Line-Out port and the Bass/Direct/Treble EQ switch.

Driver Installation: The operating system should automatically detect and install the necessary drivers. Verify installation in your system's Device Manager (Windows) or System Information (Mac).

Operating Instructions

Audio Playback and Recording

Volume Control: Use the external rotary volume knob on the side of the unit to adjust the output volume for the analog headphone/speaker jack.
EQ Switch: The hardware EQ switch on the rear of the unit allows you to select between Bass Boost, Direct (flat), and Treble Boost modes. Adjust this setting to suit your audio preference.
Sampling Rate Indicators: LEDs on the top of the unit indicate the current sampling rate (44.1 kHz, 48 kHz, or 96 kHz).
Digital Audio Output (S/PDIF): For home-theater quality sound, the S/PDIF port supports Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound (AC3) and DTS Pass-through. Note: 5.1 Surround Sound is supported in Windows only.
System Audio Settings: Ensure the StarTech.com USB Sound Card is selected as the default playback and recording device in your operating system's sound settings. You may need to adjust bit depth and sample rate settings here for optimal performance.

Maintenance

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your StarTech.com USB Sound Card, follow these maintenance guidelines:

Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the device. Avoid using liquid cleaners or aerosols, as they may damage the components.
Storage: When not in use, store the sound card in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
Handling: Handle the device with care. Avoid dropping it or subjecting it to strong impacts. Do not pull on the cable to disconnect the device from the USB port.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your StarTech.com USB Sound Card, refer to the following common troubleshooting steps:

Problem	Solution
No sound output.	Ensure the USB sound card is securely connected to a working USB port. Verify that the sound card is selected as the default playback device in your operating system's sound settings. Check the volume knob on the sound card and your system's volume levels. Ensure speakers/headphones are properly connected and powered on.
Hissing or static noise.	Try lowering the volume control dial on the sound card. Ensure all audio cables are fully inserted and not damaged. Test with different headphones/speakers to rule out external equipment issues. Ensure the USB port provides sufficient power. Try a different USB port.
Bass sounds muddy or distorted.	Check the EQ switch on the rear of the unit. If it's set to "Bass", try switching it to "Direct" mode. Adjust equalizer settings in your computer's audio software, if applicable.
5.1 Surround Sound (AC3/DTS) not working.	Ensure your operating system is Windows, as 5.1 surround sound is supported in Windows only. Verify that your media player software (e.g., VLC) is configured to output via S/PDIF and pass through AC3/DTS. For VLC, navigate to Tools > Preferences > Audio > Output module and select "DirectX audio output", then check "Use S/PDIF when available". Confirm your audio receiver/speakers support AC3/DTS decoding.
Microphone input is too quiet.	Adjust the microphone amplification slider in your operating system's sound settings (e.g., Windows Sound Control Panel or Mac Audio MIDI Setup). Ensure your microphone is properly connected and functioning.

Specifications

Feature	Detail
Product Dimensions	1.9 x 1.8 x 0.6 inches
Item Weight	1.16 ounces
Model Number	ICUSBAUDIO2D
Compatible Devices	Personal Computer
Hardware Interface	USB
Audio Output Mode	2.1 (Stereo), 5.1 (via S/PDIF on Windows)
Supported Platforms	Windows, Mac OS X
Sampling Rates	Up to 96kHz / 24-bit

Warranty and Support

The StarTech.com USB Sound Card (ICUSBAUDIO2D) is backed by a StarTech.com 2-year warranty and free lifetime technical support.

For further assistance or detailed documentation, please refer to the official user guide:

Download User Guide (PDF)

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