Midiplus Smartface II USB Audio Interface User Manual

1. Introduction

Thank you for choosing the Midiplus Smartface II USB Audio Interface. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, and maintaining your device. Please read it thoroughly before use to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your Smartface II.

The Smartface II is a 16-bit / 48 kHz USB stereo audio interface designed for recording and playback. It features two XLR/TRS combo inputs, two Hi-Z (guitar/bass) mic-preamps with 48V phantom power, line-switchable inputs, and an adjustable headphone output. Signal and peak LEDs provide visual feedback on input levels.

2. Safety Information

• Do not open the device casing. There are no user-serviceable parts inside.
• Keep the device away from water, moisture, and extreme temperatures.
• Use only the provided USB cable for connection and power.
• Avoid placing heavy objects on the device.
• Clean the device with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use liquid cleaners.
• Ensure proper ventilation around the unit during operation.

3. Package Contents

Verify that all items are present in your package:

• Midiplus Smartface II USB Audio Interface
• USB Cable
• Owner's Manual (this document)

4. Product Overview

4.1 Front Panel

The front panel provides controls for input gain, headphone monitoring, and visual indicators.

Figure 1: Front view of the Midiplus Smartface II, showing Gain 1 and Gain 2 knobs, XLR/TRS combo inputs, +48V phantom power indicator, Peak/Signal LEDs, Headphone output, and Volume knob.

• Gain 1/2: Adjusts the input level for Input 1 and Input 2 respectively.
• XLR/TRS Combo Inputs: Connect microphones (XLR) or instruments/line-level devices (1/4" TRS).
• +48V LED: Illuminates when phantom power is active for the corresponding input.
• Peak/Signal LEDs:
  • Signal (Green): Indicates an incoming audio signal.
  • Peak (Red): Indicates that the input signal is too high and may be clipping. Adjust the Gain knob to prevent peaking.
• Headphone Output: 1/4" TRS stereo jack for connecting headphones.
• Volume: Adjusts the output level for the headphone jack.

4.2 Rear Panel

The rear panel houses the USB connection, phantom power switches, monitoring controls, and line inputs/outputs.

Figure 2: Rear view of the Midiplus Smartface II, showing the USB port, +48V On/Off switches for inputs 1 and 2, Monitor On/Off switch, Stereo/Mono switch, Line Out (L/R), and Line In (L/R).

• USB Port: Connects the Smartface II to your computer for data transfer and power.
• +48V-1 On/Off: Activates/deactivates 48V phantom power for Input 1. Essential for condenser microphones.
• +48V-2 On/Off: Activates/deactivates 48V phantom power for Input 2.
• Monitor On/Off: Enables/disables direct monitoring of inputs.
• Stereo/Mono: Switches the direct monitoring mode between stereo and mono.
• Line Out (L/R): 1/4" TRS balanced outputs for connecting to studio monitors or an amplifier.
• Line In (L/R): 1/4" TRS balanced inputs for connecting line-level devices.

5. Setup

5.1 Driver Installation

The Midiplus Smartface II is a "Class Compliant" USB audio interface. This means it works driverless with most modern operating systems.

• Mac OS/X: No driver installation is required. The device will be recognized automatically.
• Windows (XP SP2, Vista, 7, 8): The device will function using generic USB audio drivers. For optimal performance and lower latency, an ASIO driver is available for download. Please visit the official Midiplus website for the latest ASIO driver for Windows XP/Vista/Win7/Win8.

After connecting the device, ensure it is selected as the input/output device in your operating system's sound settings and your Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) software.

5.2 Hardware Connection

1. Ensure your computer is powered on.
2. Connect one end of the provided USB cable to the USB port on the rear panel of the Smartface II.
3. Connect the other end of the USB cable to an available USB port on your computer. The Smartface II is USB powered, so no external power adapter is needed.
4. Connect your studio monitors or headphones to the appropriate outputs (Line Out L/R or Headphone) on the Smartface II.
5. Connect your microphones or instruments to the XLR/TRS combo inputs on the front panel.

6. Operating Instructions

6.1 Connecting Microphones and Instruments

• Microphones: Connect dynamic or condenser microphones using XLR cables to the combo inputs. For condenser microphones, activate 48V phantom power using the corresponding switch on the rear panel.
• Instruments (e.g., Guitar, Bass): Connect instruments directly using a 1/4" TS cable to the combo inputs. These inputs are Hi-Z compatible.
• Line-Level Devices: Connect synthesizers, drum machines, or other line-level devices using 1/4" TRS or TS cables to the combo inputs or the dedicated Line In (L/R) on the rear panel.

Adjust the Gain 1 and Gain 2 knobs on the front panel to set appropriate input levels. Monitor the Peak/Signal LEDs to ensure the signal is strong but not clipping (red Peak LED). A green Signal LED indicates a healthy signal.

6.2 Phantom Power (+48V)

Phantom power (+48V) is required for most condenser microphones. To activate it:

1. Connect your condenser microphone to the desired XLR combo input.
2. Locate the corresponding +48V-1 On/Off or +48V-2 On/Off switch on the rear panel.
3. Flip the switch to the "On" position. The +48V LED on the front panel will illuminate.

Caution: Do not activate phantom power for dynamic microphones or ribbon microphones unless specifically designed to handle it, as this can damage some microphones.

6.3 Direct Monitoring

The Smartface II offers direct monitoring, allowing you to hear your input signal directly from the interface with zero latency, bypassing your computer's processing.

• To enable direct monitoring, flip the Monitor On/Off switch on the rear panel to "On".
• Use the Stereo/Mono switch to select how your inputs are monitored:
  • Stereo: Input 1 will be heard on the left channel, and Input 2 on the right channel.
  • Mono: Both Input 1 and Input 2 will be summed to mono and heard equally on both left and right channels. This is useful when recording a single mono source.
• Adjust the Volume knob on the front panel for your headphone monitoring level.

6.4 Software Setup (DAW)

In your Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) software (e.g., Ableton Live, Logic Pro, Cubase, Studio One), you will need to select the Smartface II as your audio input and output device.

1. Open your DAW software.
2. Navigate to the Audio Settings, Preferences, or Options menu.
3. Select "Midiplus Smartface II" (or similar) as your audio device.
4. If using Windows, select the ASIO driver for the Smartface II if you have installed it, for optimal performance.
5. Configure your input and output channels within the DAW to correspond with the Smartface II's inputs and outputs.

The Smartface II supports full duplex operation, allowing simultaneous recording and playback.

7. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry, lint-free cloth to clean the exterior of the device. Do not use abrasive cleaners, solvents, or waxes.
• Storage: When not in use for extended periods, store the device in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Cable Care: Handle USB and audio cables carefully. Avoid sharp bends or kinks that can damage internal wiring.

8. Troubleshooting

• No Sound from Outputs:
  • Check all cable connections (USB, Line Out, Headphone).
  • Ensure the Smartface II is selected as the output device in your computer's sound settings and DAW.
  • Verify the headphone volume knob is turned up.
  • Check the volume levels within your operating system and DAW.
• No Input Signal:
  • Ensure your microphone or instrument is properly connected to the combo input.
  • Check the Gain knob for the corresponding input and increase it if necessary.
  • Verify the Signal/Peak LED. If no green light, there's no signal.
  • For condenser microphones, ensure +48V phantom power is activated.
  • Check input selection in your DAW.
  • Ensure the correct input is selected in your computer's sound settings.
• Distorted Sound (Clipping):
  • If the Peak LED is red, the input signal is too hot. Reduce the Gain knob for that input.
  • Check the output levels in your DAW and computer to prevent digital clipping.
• High Latency (Delay):
  • If using Windows, ensure the dedicated ASIO driver is installed and selected in your DAW.
  • Adjust the buffer size in your DAW's audio settings. Lower buffer sizes reduce latency but require more CPU power.
  • Utilize the direct monitoring feature to eliminate latency when recording.
• Device Not Recognized by Computer:
  • Try a different USB port on your computer.
  • Try a different USB cable.
  • Restart your computer.
  • For Windows, ensure the necessary drivers are installed (or re-install them).

9. Specifications

10. Warranty and Support

Midiplus products are designed for reliability and performance. For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Midiplus website.

For further assistance, you may contact Midiplus customer support through their official channels. Please have your product model number (Smartface II) and purchase information ready when contacting support.