1. Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the setup, operation, and maintenance of your MAONO MaonoCaster AME2A Podcast Equipment Bundle. This integrated audio interface and microphone system is designed for high-quality audio production, suitable for podcasting, live streaming, voice-overs, and music recording. Please read this manual thoroughly before use to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your equipment.
Image 1.1: The MAONO MaonoCaster AME2A Podcast Equipment Bundle, featuring the audio interface and XLR condenser microphone.
2. Package Contents
Verify that all items listed below are included in your package. If any items are missing or damaged, please contact MAONO support.
- 1 x MAONO MaonoCaster AME2A Audio Interface
- 1 x XLR Condenser Microphone
- 1 x Earphone
- 1 x XLR Microphone Cable
- 1 x Shock Mount
- 1 x Table Stand
- 1 x Windscreen Muff
- 1 x Metal Pop Filter
- 1 x USB A-C Charging Cable
- 2 x 3.5mm TRRS Audio Cables
- 1 x User Manual (this document)
3. Product Overview
3.1 MaonoCaster AME2A Audio Interface
The MaonoCaster AME2A is a compact and versatile audio interface designed for ease of use and professional results. It features various inputs and outputs, along with integrated controls for audio processing.
Image 3.1: Overview of the MaonoCaster AME2A audio interface controls and indicators.
Front Panel Controls:
- MIC Faders (1 & 2): Adjust microphone input volume.
- AUX Knob: Controls the volume of the AUX input.
- Sound Pads (A, B, C, and 8 smaller pads): Trigger custom sound effects.
- Reverb Presets: Select from various reverb modes.
- Pitch: Adjust voice pitch.
- Auto-Tune: Activates 12-step auto-tune.
- Denoise: Reduces background noise.
- Sidechain: Automatically ducks music volume when speaking.
- Music Only: Removes vocals from music input.
- Loopback: Routes computer audio back into the stream.
- Dry/Wet: Adjusts the balance between original and effect-processed sound.
- Output Knob: Master output volume control.
- Headphone Jacks: Two 3.5mm outputs for monitoring.
Image 3.2: Close-up of reverb modes, Bluetooth indicator, and dual headphone outputs on the MaonoCaster AME2A.
Rear Panel Connections:
- DC 5V: Power input.
- USB-C: Connects to computer or tablet for data and power.
- LIVE OUTPUT 1/2: 3.5mm outputs for connecting to smartphones.
- MONITOR SPK: Output for studio monitors.
- AUX IN: 3.5mm input for external audio sources.
- MIC 2 (3.5mm): Input for 3.5mm microphones.
- INST: 6.35mm input for instruments (e.g., guitar, bass).
- MIC 1 (XLR/TRS Combo): Input for XLR condenser/dynamic microphones.
Image 3.3: Detailed view of the rear panel connections on the MaonoCaster AME2A.
3.2 XLR Condenser Microphone
The included XLR condenser microphone is designed to capture clear and rich audio. It features a cardioid polar pattern, which primarily picks up sound from the front, reducing unwanted background noise.
Image 3.4: The included MAONO XLR condenser microphone with its stand.
4. Setup Guide
Follow these steps to set up your MAONO MaonoCaster AME2A bundle.
4.1 Microphone Connection
- Assemble the microphone stand, shock mount, and pop filter.
- Securely attach the XLR condenser microphone to the shock mount.
- Connect one end of the XLR microphone cable to the microphone.
- Connect the other end of the XLR cable to the MIC 1 (XLR/TRS Combo) input on the rear panel of the MaonoCaster AME2A.
- Ensure the 48V phantom power button on the MaonoCaster is activated for the condenser microphone to function.
Image 4.1: The MaonoCaster AME2A showing the microphone input and the 48V phantom power switch.
4.2 Connecting to a Computer/Smartphone
- For Computer/Tablet: Use the provided USB A-C charging cable to connect the USB-C port on the MaonoCaster to your computer or tablet. The device will be recognized as an audio interface.
- For Smartphone (Live Output): Use one of the 3.5mm TRRS audio cables to connect a LIVE OUTPUT 1 or 2 port on the MaonoCaster to the headphone/microphone jack of your smartphone.
- For Monitoring: Connect the included earphone or your preferred headphones to one of the 3.5mm headphone jacks on the front panel. For studio monitors, connect them to the MONITOR SPK output.
4.3 Powering the Device
The MaonoCaster AME2A can be powered via the USB-C connection to a computer or a 5V DC power adapter (not included). It also has a built-in battery for portable use, offering up to 8 hours of operation on a full charge.
- Connect the USB-C cable to a power source (computer or 5V adapter).
- Press the power button located on the rear panel to turn on the device.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1 Microphone Gain and Volume
- Adjust the MIC 1 or MIC 2 fader to control the input volume of your microphone.
- The MaonoCaster AME2A features a 3-level mic gain adjustment, supporting up to 60dB gain for dynamic microphones. This is typically set via a switch near the MIC 1 input.
5.2 Sound Pads
The MaonoCaster AME2A includes 11 customizable sound pads:
- 3 pads (A, B, C) support recording up to 60 seconds of audio each, with one-key looping.
- 8 smaller pads support recording up to 20 seconds of audio each.
To upload custom sounds, connect a smartphone, PC, microphone, or Bluetooth device to the MaonoCaster and record directly onto the pads. Adjust the volume of each sound pad using the dedicated control.
Image 5.1: Close-up of the customizable sound pads on the MaonoCaster AME2A.
5.3 Audio Effects and Processing
The interface offers several effects to enhance your audio:
- Reverb Modes: Select from 6 preset reverb modes. Adjust the time and depth of the reverb using the dedicated knobs.
- Pitch Changer: Use the Pitch knob to alter your voice from a low (male) to a high (female) effect.
- Auto-Tune: Activate the Auto-Tune button for a 12-step automatic pitch correction.
- EQ (Treble, Mid-range, Bass): Adjust these three modifiable tones for each microphone input independently.
- Denoise: Press the Denoise button to activate the two-stage intelligent noise reduction feature, which helps to filter out background noise.
Image 5.2: Controls for microphone volume, pitch, and auto-tune on the MaonoCaster AME2A.
5.4 Advanced Features
- Sidechain: When activated, this feature automatically lowers the volume of background music when you speak into the microphone, ensuring your voice is clear.
- Music Only: This function attempts to isolate and remove vocal tracks from music played through the AUX or Bluetooth input.
- Loopback: Enables the audio from your computer to be routed back into your live stream or recording, allowing you to share system sounds or music with your audience.
5.5 Bluetooth Connectivity
The MaonoCaster AME2A supports Bluetooth wireless input for playing background music or sound effects from a compatible device.
- Activate Bluetooth on your external device (e.g., smartphone).
- Press the BT button on the MaonoCaster to enable Bluetooth pairing mode. The indicator light will flash.
- Select "MAONO AME2A" from your device's Bluetooth list to pair. The indicator will become solid when connected.
- Adjust the AUX knob to control the Bluetooth input volume.
6. Connectivity Options
The MaonoCaster AME2A offers diverse connectivity for various setups.
6.1 Instrument Input
Connect a guitar, bass, or other instruments to the INST 6.35mm input jack. Use the dedicated INST.VOL knob to control the input volume.
Image 6.1: Connecting a guitar to the MaonoCaster AME2A instrument input.
6.2 External Audio Input (AUX-IN)
Use the AUX-IN 3.5mm jack to connect external audio sources like an MP3 player or another smartphone for background music or sound effects.
6.3 Output Connections
- LIVE OUTPUT 1/2: Connect to smartphones for live streaming or recording.
- MONITOR SPK: Connect to active studio monitors for high-quality audio playback.
- Headphone Outputs: Two 3.5mm jacks for real-time audio monitoring.
7. Specifications
Detailed technical specifications for the MAONO MaonoCaster AME2A.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Number | AME2A |
| Item Weight | 2.52 Kilograms (5.55 pounds) |
| Product Dimensions | 9.64"D x 6.18"W x 2.16"H |
| Number of Channels | 10 |
| Hardware Interface | 1/4-inch Audio, 3.5mm Audio, Bluetooth, USB Type C |
| Digital Audio Protocol | USB 2.0 |
| Compatible Devices | Computer, Tablet, Camera, Smartphone |
| Operating System | MAC OS, Windows |
| Supported Software | OBS, Discord, Zoom, Audacity, YouTube, Facebook, TikTok, Twitch |
| Power Source | Corded Electric |
| Battery Type | 1 Lithium Polymer battery (included) |
| Battery Life | Up to 8 hours (fully charged) |
| Microphone Gain | Up to 60dB |
| Phantom Power | 48V (for XLR condenser microphone) |
8. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your MaonoCaster AME2A, refer to the following common problems and solutions.
8.1 No Sound Output
- Check Connections: Ensure all cables (microphone, headphones, output) are securely connected.
- Volume Levels: Verify that the master output knob, microphone faders, and individual input volumes are not set to minimum.
- Power: Confirm the device is powered on and has sufficient battery charge or is connected to a power source.
- Computer Settings: On your computer, ensure the MaonoCaster AME2A is selected as the default input and output audio device in your operating system's sound settings and your recording/streaming software.
- Phantom Power: For the XLR condenser microphone, ensure the 48V phantom power is enabled.
8.2 Poor Audio Quality / Noise
- Microphone Placement: Ensure the microphone is positioned correctly, facing the sound source, and away from noise.
- Gain Staging: Adjust microphone gain to an appropriate level. Too low may result in a weak signal, too high may cause distortion.
- Denoise Function: Activate the Denoise feature on the MaonoCaster to reduce background noise.
- Cable Interference: Use high-quality, shielded cables to minimize interference. Avoid running audio cables parallel to power cables.
- Ground Loop: If you hear a hum, it might be a ground loop. Try connecting all equipment to the same power strip or using a ground loop isolator.
8.3 Bluetooth Connection Issues
- Pairing Mode: Ensure the MaonoCaster is in Bluetooth pairing mode (BT light flashing).
- Device Visibility: Make sure your external device's Bluetooth is on and discoverable.
- Distance: Keep the Bluetooth device within range of the MaonoCaster.
- Interference: Avoid other wireless devices that might cause interference.
9. Maintenance
Proper care and maintenance will extend the life of your MAONO MaonoCaster AME2A.
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the device. Do not use liquid cleaners or solvents.
- Storage: Store the equipment in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- Handling: Avoid dropping or subjecting the device to strong impacts.
- Cables: Handle cables carefully. Do not bend them sharply or pull them by the cable itself when disconnecting.
10. Warranty and Support
For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please refer to the official MAONO website or contact their customer support directly. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty claims.
MAONO Official Website: www.maono.com
