LEWITT CONNECT 2 Audio Interface User Manual

1. Overview

Product Description

The LEWITT CONNECT 2 is a highly intuitive USB-C audio interface engineered to simplify the recording process for musicians, podcasters, streamers, and voice actors. It combines robust hardware with intelligent software features to deliver sensational sound quality with minimal effort. Its compact design ensures it fits seamlessly into any setup, whether at home or on the go.

Key Features

• Sensational Sound with a Few Clicks: Designed for ease of use, allowing users to achieve professional-grade recordings without extensive audio engineering knowledge.
• Autosetup for Optimal Settings: Automatically configures input levels and applies essential processing for perfect sound in seconds.
• Easy-to-Use Tools for Perfect Sound: Includes integrated Autogain, Denoiser (for background noise reduction), and Compressor (for uniform sound imaging).
• Clipguard Protection: Safeguards your audio signal from clipping, even during loud performances, ensuring clean recordings.
• Three Iconic Preamp Sounds: Offers 'Clean', 'Warm', and 'Vivid' preamp styles to tailor your microphone and instrument tone.

Figure 1: Front view of the LEWITT CONNECT 2 Audio Interface.

2. Setup Guide

Package Contents

Upon unboxing your LEWITT CONNECT 2, ensure all the following items are present:

• LEWITT CONNECT 2 Audio Interface
• USB-C to USB-C Cable
• USB-C to USB-A Adapter

Connecting Your Device

The CONNECT 2 is bus-powered via its USB-C connection, simplifying your setup by eliminating the need for an external power supply. All connectors are conveniently located at the back for a tidy workspace.

Figure 2: Rear view of the CONNECT 2 with port labels.

• USB-C Connection: Connect the provided USB-C cable from the interface to your computer. Use the USB-A adapter if your computer only has USB-A ports.
• Microphone Preamp with 3-pin XLR Input: Connect your XLR microphone here. The interface provides 48V phantom power for condenser microphones.
• Hi-Z Input for Instruments (6.35 mm): Plug in your guitar, bass, or other high-impedance instruments.
• Balanced Output Jacks for Loudspeakers (6.35 mm L/R): Connect your studio monitors for playback.
• Two Headphone Outputs (3.5 mm / 6.35 mm): Connect your headphones for monitoring.

Figure 3: CONNECT 2 with all cables connected for a clean setup.

Software Installation (LEWITT Control Center)

To unlock the full potential of your CONNECT 2, download and install the free LEWITT Control Center software from the official LEWITT website. This software is available for both Mac and Windows operating systems.

Figure 4: LEWITT Control Center software interface.

Autosetup Feature

The Autosetup function is a core feature of the CONNECT 2, designed to quickly and automatically find the perfect settings for your microphone or instrument. This eliminates the need for manual gain staging and complex audio adjustments.

1. Connect your microphone or instrument to the CONNECT 2.
2. Open the LEWITT Control Center software.
3. Click the 'Autosetup' button within the software or press the central button on the interface.
4. Follow the on-screen prompts, which may include performing a short soundcheck.
5. The CONNECT 2 will automatically set optimal input levels and apply intelligent processing like Clipguard, Denoiser, and Compressor.

Figure 5: Autosetup wizard in LEWITT Control Center.

3. Operation

Front Panel Controls

The CONNECT 2 features intuitive touch-based controls with clear visual feedback for easy operation.

Figure 6: Front panel controls of the CONNECT 2.

• Mute Button: Mutes all inputs and outputs.
• Input Selectors (Microphone, Instrument): Tap to select the input you wish to control.
• Output Selectors (Monitor, Headphone): Tap to select the output you wish to control.
• Scroll Wheel: Adjusts gain levels for selected inputs and volume levels for selected outputs.
• Custom Button: A programmable button that can be assigned various workflow shortcuts via the Control Center software.

LEWITT Control Center Software

The Control Center software provides comprehensive control over all aspects of your CONNECT 2.

• Inputs Section: Manage gain levels, activate 48V phantom power, enable Clipguard, and select preamp styles (Clean, Warm, Vivid). You can also toggle Denoiser and Compressor for each input.
• Outputs Section: Control the volume of your monitor and headphone outputs. Includes an audio loopback feature for streaming.
• Monitoring Section: Blend the direct input signal with your computer's audio for latency-free monitoring.
• LED Customization: Adjust the brightness and color of the LEDs on the interface to match your preference.
• Custom Button Configuration: Assign various functions to the custom button, such as toggling mic/instrument preamp styles, muting specific outputs, or dimming outputs.

Figure 7: Custom button settings in LEWITT Control Center.

Sound Processing Features

The CONNECT 2 integrates powerful DSP effects to enhance your audio in real-time.

• Autogain: Automatically sets your input levels to ensure optimal recording quality, preventing signals from being too loud or too quiet.
• Clipguard: Provides protection against audio clipping, allowing you to perform without worrying about signal distortion.
• Denoiser: Effectively removes unwanted background noise and hum, maintaining the natural quality of your sound.
• Compressor: Creates a uniform sound image, similar to professional studio recordings, by reducing the dynamic range of your audio.
• Preamp Sounds (EQ Styles): Choose from three distinct tonal characteristics:
  • Clean: Offers unparalleled clarity and fidelity, ideal for processing your signal further.
  • Warm: Provides a vintage vibe and helps to smooth the high-end of overly bright microphones.
  • Vivid: Brings even dull-sounding microphones alive and adds articulation by boosting specific frequencies.

Figure 8: Visual representation of the three preamp sound styles.

4. Maintenance

Cleaning

To maintain the appearance and functionality of your CONNECT 2, regularly wipe the device with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or solvents, as these can damage the finish and internal components.

Firmware Updates

Periodically check for firmware updates for your CONNECT 2 via the LEWITT Control Center software. Updates often include performance improvements, bug fixes, and new features. Keeping your firmware up-to-date ensures optimal performance and compatibility.

5. Troubleshooting

Common Issues and Solutions

• No Sound Output:
  • Ensure the CONNECT 2 is properly connected via USB-C and powered on.
  • Check all cable connections (XLR, Hi-Z, monitor, headphones).
  • Verify volume levels on the interface and within the Control Center software.
  • Confirm the correct audio device is selected in your computer's sound settings and your Digital Audio Workstation (DAW).
• Audio Clipping/Distortion:
  • Utilize the Autosetup feature to automatically set optimal gain levels.
  • Ensure Clipguard is enabled in the Control Center software.
  • Manually reduce the input gain using the scroll wheel or Control Center if clipping persists.
• Excessive Background Noise:
  • Activate the Denoiser feature in the Control Center software.
  • Ensure your recording environment is as quiet as possible.
  • Check microphone placement and proximity to noise sources.
• Device Not Recognized by Computer:
  • Try connecting to a different USB port or using a different USB-C cable.
  • Restart your computer.
  • Reinstall the LEWITT Control Center software and drivers.
  • Check for any pending operating system updates.

6. Technical Specifications

7. Warranty and Support

Product Registration

Register your LEWITT CONNECT 2 product online to ensure you receive important updates and support. Registration details can typically be found within the LEWITT Control Center software or on the official LEWITT website.

Online Support

For further assistance, technical support, or to file a bug report, please visit the official LEWITT support page. You can find comprehensive FAQs, troubleshooting guides, and contact information for direct support.

Visit the Official LEWITT Store Page