AKLOT 2In-2Out USB Audio Interface User Manual

1. Introduction

Thank you for choosing the AKLOT 2In-2Out USB Audio Interface. This device is designed to provide high-quality audio recording and playback for musicians, podcasters, and content creators. With its 24-bit/192 kHz converters, Class A microphone preamplifiers, and direct monitoring capabilities, it offers a professional solution for your audio needs on PC, Windows, and Mac systems.

Key features include:

• 2 In 2 Out Connectivity: Features two high-headroom instrument inputs and two output USB-C audio interfaces.
• Class A DYNA Microphone Preamplifier: Delivers bright and open vocal recordings.
• Versatile Inputs: Instrument/Line input switch for various instruments, accepting both XLR and 1/4" (6.35 mm) jacks.
• Professional Recording Quality: Supports up to 24-bit/192kHz for high-fidelity recordings.
• Direct Monitoring: Enables real-time, delay-free monitoring of your input signals.
• Built-in Headphone Amplifier: Provides loud, detailed, and low-noise monitoring through headphones.

2. Package Contents

Please check the package to ensure all items are present:

• AKLOT 2In-2Out USB Audio Interface
• USB-C to USB-A Cable
• User Manual (this document)

3. Product Overview

3.1 Front Panel Controls and Connections

Figure 1: Front Panel Layout

1. Input 1 (Combo Jack): Accepts XLR connectors for microphones or 1/4" (6.35 mm) jacks for instruments/line-level sources.
2. GAIN 1 Knob: Adjusts the input gain for Input 1.
3. LINE/INST 1 Switch: Toggles between line-level and instrument-level input for Input 1.
4. 48V Phantom Power Button: Activates +48V phantom power for condenser microphones connected to Input 1. (Lights red when active)
5. Input 2 (Combo Jack): Accepts XLR connectors for microphones or 1/4" (6.35 mm) jacks for instruments/line-level sources.
6. GAIN 2 Knob: Adjusts the input gain for Input 2.
7. LINE/INST 2 Switch: Toggles between line-level and instrument-level input for Input 2.
8. MONITOR Knob: Controls the overall output volume to your headphones and studio monitors.
9. DIRECT MONITOR Switch: Engages direct monitoring, allowing you to hear your input signal directly without latency.
10. POWER/PHONES Knob: Controls the volume of the headphone output.
11. Headphone Output (1/4" Jack): Connect your headphones here for monitoring.

3.2 Rear Panel Connections

Figure 2: Rear Panel Layout

1. TRS BALANCED OUTPUT (Right/Left): Connect your studio monitors using 1/4" (6.35 mm) TRS balanced cables.
2. USB-C Port: Connects the audio interface to your computer using the provided USB-C to USB-A cable. This port also provides power to the device.

4. Setup and Installation

4.1 Driver Installation (Windows Only)

For Windows users, a specific driver is required for optimal performance. Mac users typically do not need to install additional drivers as the device is class-compliant.

Steps for Windows Driver Installation:

1. Open your web browser and navigate to the official AKLOT download page: www.aklot.com/download-2.html
2. Locate and click on the download link for the "YUER_USBAudio_v5.30.0_2022-03-21_setup.exe" file.
3. Once the download is complete, run the executable file.
4. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the installation. Click "Next" to proceed through the setup wizard.
5. After installation, you may be prompted to restart your computer. It is recommended to do so.
6. Upon successful installation, you can open the YUER USB Audio Device Control Panel (usually found in your system tray or program files) to verify the status and ensure it is connected to the audio interface.

4.2 Connecting to Your Computer

Use the provided USB-C to USB-A cable to connect the audio interface to an available USB port on your computer.

Figure 3: USB Connection

• For Mac users: Connect the Audio Interface 2i2 to your computer using the USB cable provided. Your macOS will automatically recognize the device. You can verify the connection and configure settings in Applications > Utilities > Audio MIDI Setup.
• For Windows users: After installing the driver as described in Section 4.1, connect the Audio Interface 2i2 to your computer. The system should now recognize the device.

4.3 Connecting Microphones and Instruments

The AKLOT 2In-2Out features combo jacks that accept both XLR and 1/4" (6.35 mm) inputs.

• Microphones: Connect your microphone using an XLR cable to either Input 1 or Input 2. If using a condenser microphone, press the 48V button to activate phantom power. Adjust the corresponding GAIN knob to set the input level.
• Instruments (e.g., Guitar, Bass): Connect your instrument using a 1/4" (6.35 mm) TS or TRS cable to either Input 1 or Input 2. Ensure the LINE/INST switch for that input is set to INST. Adjust the corresponding GAIN knob.
• Line-Level Devices (e.g., Keyboards, Drum Machines): Connect your device using a 1/4" (6.35 mm) TS or TRS cable to either Input 1 or Input 2. Ensure the LINE/INST switch for that input is set to LINE. Adjust the corresponding GAIN knob.

4.4 Connecting Headphones and Studio Monitors

• Headphones: Plug your headphones into the 1/4" (6.35 mm) headphone jack on the front panel. Adjust the POWER/PHONES knob to control the headphone volume.
• Studio Monitors: Connect your active studio monitors to the TRS BALANCED OUTPUT (Right/Left) jacks on the rear panel using 1/4" (6.35 mm) TRS balanced cables. Control the monitor volume using the MONITOR knob.

5. Operation

5.1 Setting Input Levels (Gain)

Before recording, it is crucial to set appropriate input levels to avoid clipping and distortion. Connect your microphone or instrument and speak/play at your loudest expected level. Slowly turn up the corresponding GAIN knob until the signal indicator lights green. If it turns red, the signal is too loud and clipping; reduce the gain until it stays green or occasionally flashes yellow.

5.2 Direct Monitoring

The DIRECT MONITOR switch allows you to hear your input signal directly from the interface, bypassing your computer's software. This eliminates latency (delay) during recording. When engaged, you will hear a blend of your input signal and the playback from your computer. Ensure the MONITOR knob is adjusted to a comfortable listening level.

5.3 Phantom Power (48V)

Condenser microphones require +48V phantom power to operate. If you are using a condenser microphone, press the 48V button. The button will illuminate red, indicating that phantom power is active. Do not activate phantom power for dynamic microphones or ribbon microphones unless specifically required by the manufacturer, as it can damage some ribbon microphones.

5.4 Headphone Output

The dedicated headphone output allows for private monitoring. Adjust the POWER/PHONES knob to control the volume of your headphones independently from the main monitor output.

6. Specifications

7. Troubleshooting

• No Sound Output:
  • Ensure the audio interface is properly connected to your computer and powered on.
  • Check all cable connections to headphones and monitors.
  • Verify that the MONITOR and POWER/PHONES knobs are turned up.
  • Confirm that the AKLOT 2In-2Out is selected as the input and output device in your computer's sound settings and your Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) software.
  • For Windows, ensure the driver is correctly installed.
• No Input Signal:
  • Check microphone/instrument cable connections.
  • Ensure the corresponding GAIN knob is turned up.
  • If using a condenser microphone, verify that 48V phantom power is activated.
  • For instruments, ensure the LINE/INST switch is set to INST.
• Distorted Sound / Clipping:
  • Reduce the input GAIN if the signal indicator lights red.
  • Check the output volume levels on your computer and DAW.
• Latency (Delay) During Recording:
  • Engage the DIRECT MONITOR switch on the interface.
  • In your DAW settings, reduce the buffer size (this may increase CPU load).
• Device Not Recognized by Computer:
  • Try connecting to a different USB port.
  • Restart your computer.
  • For Windows, reinstall the driver.
  • Ensure the USB cable is not damaged.

8. Warranty and Support

AKLOT products are designed for reliability and performance. This product is covered by a standard manufacturer's warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. For specific warranty terms, registration, or technical support, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official AKLOT website. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.