Apogee Boom USB Audio Interface User Manual

1. Introduction

The Apogee Boom is a high-quality 2-input, 2-output USB audio interface designed for musicians, podcasters, and streamers. It features studio-grade microphone preamps, 24-bit/192kHz audio conversion, hardware DSP for zero-latency effects, and a powerful headphone amplifier. This manual provides detailed instructions for setting up, operating, and maintaining your Apogee Boom to ensure optimal performance.

1.1 What's in the Box

• Apogee Boom USB Audio Interface
• USB-C to USB-C cable (with USB-A adapter)
• Warranty Pamphlet

Image: The Apogee Boom unit shown with its USB-C to USB-C cable and a USB-A adapter, indicating the contents of the product packaging.

2. Setup

2.1 System Requirements

• Operating System: macOS (compatible with various versions), Windows (compatible with various versions), iOS (iPad Pro and other iOS devices with Apple Camera Connection Kit and powered external USB Hub).
• Hardware: Available USB port (USB-C recommended).

2.2 Software Installation

1. Download Apogee Control 2: Visit the official Apogee website and download the latest version of the Apogee Control 2 software for your operating system. This software is essential for controlling the Boom's features, including DSP effects and settings.
2. Install Apogee Control 2: Follow the on-screen instructions to install the software. You may need to restart your computer after installation.
3. Firmware Update: After installing Apogee Control 2 and connecting your Boom, the software may prompt you to update the device's firmware. Follow the instructions carefully to ensure your Boom has the latest enhancements and bug fixes.
4. Ableton Live Lite: Your Apogee Boom includes a license for Ableton Live Lite. Register your product on the Apogee website to receive your license and download instructions for Ableton Live Lite.

2.3 Hardware Connection

1. Connect to Computer: Use the provided USB-C to USB-C cable (or USB-C to USB-A adapter if your computer only has USB-A ports) to connect the Apogee Boom to your computer.
2. Connect Speakers: Connect your studio monitors or speakers to the 1/4" balanced outputs (L/R) on the rear panel of the Boom.
3. Connect Headphones: Plug your headphones into the 1/4" headphone output on the rear panel.
4. Power On: The Apogee Boom is bus-powered via USB, so it will power on automatically once connected to your computer.

Image: The Apogee Boom audio interface is shown connected to a laptop, two studio monitors, and a pair of headphones, illustrating a typical studio setup.

3. Hardware Overview

3.1 Front Panel

Image: Front view of the Apogee Boom, highlighting the XLR/TRS combo input (IN1), 1/4" instrument/line input (IN2), input/output level meters, and the large volume knob.

• IN1 (XLR/TRS Combo): Balanced microphone/line/instrument input. Provides 62 dB of clean gain for various microphones, including dynamic and ribbon mics. Phantom power (48V) is software-controlled via Apogee Control 2.
• IN2 (1/4" TRS): Balanced instrument/line input.
• Input/Output Level Meters: LED indicators for input and output signal levels.
• Volume Knob: Controls the output level for both main speakers and headphones.

3.2 Rear Panel

Image: Rear view of the Apogee Boom, displaying the USB-C port, 1/4" headphone output (HP), and balanced 1/4" left and right speaker outputs (SP L/R).

• USB-C Port: Connects to your computer or iOS device for data and power.
• HP (1/4" TRS): Stereo headphone output.
• SP L/R (1/4" TRS): Balanced stereo line outputs for connecting to studio monitors.
• Kensington Lock Slot: For securing the device.

4. Operation

4.1 Connecting Microphones and Instruments

• Microphones: Connect an XLR microphone to IN1. If using a condenser microphone, enable 48V phantom power through the Apogee Control 2 software. The Boom provides ample gain for various microphone types, including those typically requiring external preamps like the Shure SM7B.
• Instruments: Connect a guitar, bass, or other instrument directly to IN1 or IN2 using a 1/4" TS cable.
• Line-Level Devices: Connect synthesizers, drum machines, or other line-level equipment to IN1 or IN2 using 1/4" TRS cables.

Image: The Apogee Boom is shown connected to a studio microphone, a MIDI keyboard, and an iPad, demonstrating its versatility in a creative setup.

4.2 Using Apogee Control 2 Software

Apogee Control 2 is your central hub for managing the Boom's settings. It allows you to:

• Adjust input gain for IN1 and IN2.
• Enable/disable 48V phantom power for IN1.
• Access and control the hardware DSP effects, including the Symphony ECS Channel Strip (3-Band EQ, compressor, saturator).
• Configure direct monitoring for zero-latency recording.
• Manage output routing and levels.
• Activate Loopback mode for streaming applications.

Image: A user's hand is shown adjusting settings on an iPad screen, which displays the Apogee Control 2 software interface with various DSP effects parameters.

4.3 Hardware DSP and Symphony ECS Channel Strip

The Boom features hardware DSP, allowing you to run the Symphony ECS Channel Strip plugin directly on the interface with zero latency. This plugin, tuned by Bob Clearmountain, includes a 3-band EQ, compressor, and saturator. You can apply these effects to your inputs for recording or monitoring, either printing the effects to your recording or monitoring with them while recording a dry signal.

4.4 Monitoring

• Direct Monitoring: Use Apogee Control 2 to enable direct monitoring, which sends the input signal directly to your outputs (speakers and headphones) with no audible latency. This is crucial for comfortable recording.
• Headphone Output: The zero-ohm headphone output provides clear, dynamic sound for both in-ear monitors and high-impedance headphones. Note that connecting headphones may mute the main speaker outputs, depending on your software settings.

4.5 Loopback Mode for Streaming

The built-in Mixer and Loopback mode enable you to create professional live streams. Loopback allows you to route audio from your computer (e.g., game audio, Spotify, chat notifications) back into the Boom's inputs, mixing it with your microphone or instrument signal before sending it to your streaming software.

4.6 iPad Pro Compatibility

The Apogee Boom is compatible with iPad Pro and other iOS devices. This allows for portable recording and control of the ECS Channel Strip directly from your iPad. For Lightning-equipped iOS devices, an Apple Camera Connection Kit and a powered external USB Hub are required.

Image: A top-down view shows the Apogee Boom connected to an iPad and an electric guitar, illustrating a compact and portable recording setup.

5. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the Apogee Boom. Avoid using liquid cleaners or solvents, as they may damage the finish or internal components.
• Firmware Updates: Regularly check the Apogee website for firmware updates. Keeping your device's firmware current ensures optimal performance, compatibility, and access to new features. Follow the instructions provided by Apogee for safe firmware updates.
• Storage: When not in use, store the Apogee Boom in a clean, dry environment away from extreme temperatures and direct sunlight.

6. Troubleshooting

• No Sound Output:
  • Ensure the Boom is properly connected via USB and powered on.
  • Check the volume knob on the Boom and your computer's system volume.
  • Verify that the Apogee Boom is selected as the audio output device in your operating system's sound settings and your Digital Audio Workstation (DAW).
  • If headphones are plugged in, they might mute the main speaker outputs. Check settings in Apogee Control 2.
• No Input Signal:
  • Confirm your microphone or instrument is correctly connected to IN1 or IN2.
  • Adjust the input gain for the corresponding channel in Apogee Control 2.
  • For condenser microphones, ensure 48V phantom power is enabled in Apogee Control 2.
  • Verify that the Apogee Boom is selected as the audio input device in your operating system's sound settings and your DAW.
• Setup Difficulties / Software Not Recognizing Boom:
  • Ensure Apogee Control 2 is installed correctly and is the latest version.
  • Try connecting the Boom to a different USB port or using a different USB cable.
  • Restart your computer and the Apogee Boom.
  • Check for any pending firmware updates via Apogee Control 2.
• Latency Issues:
  • Enable direct monitoring in Apogee Control 2 for zero-latency input monitoring.
  • Adjust your DAW's buffer size settings to a lower value (e.g., 64 or 128 samples) for reduced latency during recording.

For further assistance, refer to the Apogee support website or contact their customer service.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty and Support

Apogee products are designed for reliability and performance. For detailed warranty information, please refer to the warranty pamphlet included with your product or visit the official Apogee website. Apogee provides technical support and resources to assist you with any questions or issues you may encounter.

Online Support: Visit apogeedigital.com/support for FAQs, knowledge base articles, and software downloads.

Contact Support: Information on how to contact Apogee customer service directly can be found on their support website.