Maonocaster E2 Gen2 Podcast Console

Introduction

Maono, meaning "vision" in Kiswahili, is a globally recognized brand in internet microphones, with products sold in 153 countries. The company aims to be a leading provider of internet audio products, delivering pleasant sound experiences by collaborating with audio professionals, influencers, and users.

Thank you for choosing the Maonocaster E2 Gen2 podcast console. This user manual is designed to help you achieve a better using experience.

Description

The Maonocaster E2 Gen2 is an enhanced version of the popular E2 podcast and streaming audio console. It features dual XLR microphone inputs with dedicated controls for two-person recording, a direct monitor switch, and two mute buttons to improve user experience and streamline workflows. The console supports Bluetooth, AUX-In, and instrument inputs for background music, along with eight programmable soundpads to boost content creativity. It is an ideal companion for podcasters, streamers, musicians, and content creators.

Product Features

• Dual XLR microphone input for two guests
• Instrument and AUX input to enrich your content
• +60dB Powerful microphone preamp
• Independent microphone and accompaniment volume control
• Side chain feature to emphasize vocal
• Advanced noise cancelling algorithm to reduce ambient noise
• Two analog and one USB outputs to stream to multiple devices
• USB-C for easier connection with computer and charging
• Compatible with Windows and macOS
• Built-in Battery, up to 8 hours of off-grid operation
• +48V Phantom power support for XLR condenser microphones
• 12 levels auto-tone control for more accurate vocal

Applications

Recording, Podcasting, Streaming, and Gaming on computers, tablets, and smartphones. Compatible with mainstream recording and streaming software.

Specifications

Accessory List

• Maonocaster E2 Gen2 Podcast Console
• USB A&C to USB C 2-in-1 Cable
• 3.5mm TRRS Audio Cable
• User Manual

Product Layout and Controls

The Maonocaster E2 Gen2 features a comprehensive layout of inputs, outputs, and controls:

1. XLR Input 1 (Microphone Input): Accepts XLR or 1/4 inch (6.35mm) plug microphones. Supports 48V phantom power for condenser microphones via switch (13).
2. XLR Input 2 (Microphone and Instrument Input) and High-Z Switch: Accepts XLR microphones or 1/4 inch (6.35mm) plug instruments. Supports 48V phantom power for condenser microphones or can be switched to High-Z for instrument-level devices.
3. AUX-In: A 3.5mm TRS input for connecting external audio sources for background music playback.
4. 3.5mm Line Out: A 3.5mm TRS output for connecting to powered speakers or other audio devices.
5. 3.5mm TRRS Stream Out: A 3.5mm TRRS output for connecting to a smartphone for recording or streaming.
6. USB-C Data: Supports data transfer with PC and mobile devices. Requires UAC (USB Audio Class) protocol support on mobile devices. May allow charging of mobile devices when connected to an external power supply. Android phones need USB host (OTG) enabled. iPhones with Lightning require Apple's Lightning to USB Camera Adapter.
7. DC5V Interface: Provides power and charging. Connect an external 5V/2A power adapter or power bank.
8. Backlight Switch: Hold the power button for over 1 second to turn button backlights on/off.
9. Power On/Off: Hold the power button for 3 seconds to turn the device on/off.
10. 3.5mm Headphone Jacks: Two jacks on the front for connecting headphones or headsets (headset microphone input is not supported).
11. XLR Input Gain Knob: Controls the input gain level for XLR inputs.
12. Fader: Controls the volume level for each input.
13. Mute: Dedicated mute buttons for inputs.
14. 48V Phantom Power Switches: Push down to enable +48V phantom power for condenser microphones. Caution: Do not enable if not needed, as it may damage some microphones.
15. Equalizer: Adjusts the frequency response of microphone and instrument inputs to enhance or modify sound.
16. Music Level: Controls the volume for audio input from 3.5mm AUX-In and Bluetooth sources.
17. Bluetooth Button: Long-press to enable/disable Bluetooth connectivity. Flashing light indicates pairing mode; solid light indicates a successful connection. Used for audio playback only.
18. Soundpads: Eight programmable buttons for recording and playing custom sound effects (approx. 20 seconds per pad). Users must record their own sound effects. Includes functions to erase and record effects.
19. Soundpads Level: Controls the volume level of the soundpads.
20. Pitch Knob: Controls the pitch effect. The center position disables the pitch effect.
21. Reverb Knob / Reverb Presets: Controls the strength of the reverb effect. Turning the knob fully left disables reverb. Reverb presets are also available.
22. Sidechain: Automatically lowers the volume of background music when you speak, emphasizing your voice.
23. Sing Along: Offers two modes: 'Sing Along' (removes vocals from music played via USB-C/3.5mm stream output, but vocals remain in headphones) and 'Music Only' (removes vocals from both output and headphones). Vocal removal effectiveness may vary by music.
24. Dry/Wet Recording: Selects recording mode: 'Dry' records raw sound without effects, 'Wet' includes applied audio effects. Default is Wet.
25. Loopback: When enabled, USB playback is sent back to the USB-connected device. When disabled, USB playback is only heard in headphones and not recorded. This helps avoid unwanted echoes.
26. Noise Reducer: Reduces background noise during recording. Short press activates low noise cancellation, another press activates high noise cancellation, and a third press turns it off. An LED indicator shows the status.
27. Direct Monitoring Switch: Toggles real-time monitoring of microphone and instrument inputs on or off.
28. Headphones Level: Controls the volume for the headphone jacks.
29. Output Level: Controls the volume for the USB-C (6) and 3.5mm TRRS (5) outputs.
30. Level Meter Display: Indicates the signal level for XLR inputs 1 and 2. Keep levels in the green/orange sections for optimal audio quality; red indicates peaking and potential distortion.

Setup Guide

1. PC Connection

Diagrams illustrate connecting microphones to XLR inputs, headphones to headphone jacks, and the console to a PC via USB-C. A dual-PC setup is also shown, connecting a gaming PC's audio output to the console's AUX-In and the console to a streaming PC via USB-C.

1. Connect your microphones, headphones, and other required devices.
2. Use the provided USB-C data cable to connect the Maonocaster to your computer. The computer will automatically detect and install drivers.
3. In your Windows or macOS computer's sound settings, set "Maonocaster E2 Gen2" as the default output and input device.
4. Verify in your streaming or recording software settings that "Maonocaster E2 Gen2" is selected as the default audio input and output device.

2. Smartphone or Tablet Connection

Diagrams show connecting microphones, headphones, and the console to a smartphone via USB-C or a 3.5mm TRRS cable. An external 5V power adapter is shown connected to the DC5V port for continuous power.

1. Connect your microphones, headphones, and other required devices.
2. Use the provided USB-C to USB-C data cable or a 3.5mm TRRS to TRRS cable to connect the Maonocaster to your smartphone or tablet.
3. Connect an external 5V/2A power adapter if continuous power is needed.
4. Notes: If your phone lacks a 3.5mm headphone jack, use the manufacturer's official USB-C to headphone adapter. For USB connection, your mobile device must support the UAC (USB Audio Class) protocol. Android phones require USB host (OTG) enabled. iPhones with Lightning connectors need Apple's Lightning to USB Camera Adapter. Some smartphones can be charged when the Maonocaster is connected to an external power adapter. You can record or stream to two smartphones by utilizing both USB-C and 3.5mm TRRS outputs.

3. Bluetooth Connection

The Maonocaster supports Bluetooth music playback.

1. Turn on the Maonocaster; the Bluetooth button backlight will flash.
2. On your phone, go to Bluetooth settings and search for devices. Select "Maonocaster E2 Gen 2" to connect.
3. Once connected, the Bluetooth light will stop flashing.
4. Play music from your phone.
5. Open your preferred app to start recording or streaming.
6. Note: Bluetooth is for music playback only.

4. Charging

Diagrams show connecting the console to a power adapter or power bank via USB-C to the DC5V port.

1. Ensure the device is fully charged before first use.
2. Connect the DC5V port to a 5V/2A power adapter or power bank using a USB-C cable.
3. Stop charging once the battery is full to prevent overcharging.
4. If not used frequently, charge the device at least every three months to maintain battery health.

Troubleshooting

5.1 Cannot boot

- Check if the console has power; charge it and try again.

- Ensure the power button is held for more than three seconds to turn it on.

5.2 No sound from accompaniment music

- Verify the external audio source is connected to the accompaniment interface.

- Check if the accompaniment volume control knob is turned up.

- Check the volume on the accompaniment device itself.

5.3 No sound from headphones

- Ensure the headphone cable is plugged into the correct "headset" or "sound" interface.

- Check if the "monitor fader" is up; gradually increase volume by sliding it up.

5.4 No sound from the microphone

- Confirm the microphone is correctly connected to the microphone interface.

- Ensure the microphone gain knob is turned up clockwise.

- Check if the "monitor fader" is up; gradually increase volume by sliding it up.

- Consult your microphone dealer or Maono for compatibility confirmation.

5.5 No sound in live broadcast

- Ensure the "recording" knob is turned up clockwise to increase live broadcast volume.

- Verify that "Maonocaster E2 Gen2" is set as the default playback and recording device in your live broadcast software, as detailed in the "Live Streaming on the Computer" section.

Safety and Compliance

To prevent personal injury or property damage, use this product in a safe environment and observe the following:

• If the product overheats, emits smoke, or has an odor, immediately turn off the power and send it for maintenance.
• Do not modify, disassemble, or repair the equipment yourself to avoid voiding the warranty or causing injury. Contact the distributor if necessary.
• Use and store the product in a dry, ventilated, and safe environment. Avoid humid or dusty conditions.
• Prevent rain and dust from entering the product to avoid short circuits. Avoid proximity to fire, collisions, and severe vibrations, which can cause irreversible damage.
• Do not use the product in legally prohibited locations and follow relevant safety regulations.
• This product is not a toy; keep it out of reach of children.

FCC Warning

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to two conditions: it may not cause harmful interference, and it must accept any interference received. Changes not expressly approved by the responsible party may void the user's authority to operate the equipment. This equipment has been tested and found to comply with Class B digital device limits, providing reasonable protection against harmful interference in residential installations. It generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy. If it causes harmful interference to radio or television reception, users are encouraged to correct it by reorienting the antenna, increasing separation, connecting to a different circuit, or consulting a dealer/technician. This equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits for an uncontrolled environment and should be installed with a minimum distance of 20cm between the radiator and your body.

IC Warning

This device complies with Industry Canada's licence-exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is subject to two conditions: it may not cause interference, and it must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation. This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003. Maintain a distance of 20cm from the body during use to ensure compliance with RF exposure requirements.