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.
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).
- 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.
- 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).
Figure 2: Close-up view of the USB connector, ready for connection to a computer's USB port.
Figure 3: Rear view of the sound card, highlighting the S/PDIF Line-Out port and the Bass/Direct/Treble EQ switch.
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. |
|
| Hissing or static noise. |
|
| Bass sounds muddy or distorted. |
|
| 5.1 Surround Sound (AC3/DTS) not working. |
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| Microphone input is too quiet. |
|
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:
