Maonocaster G1 Neo Gaming Audio Mixer User Manual

Introduction

Maono, meaning “vision” in Kiswahili, is a global brand specializing in internet microphones, sold in 153 countries worldwide. The company aims to be a leading brand in internet audio products, delivering pleasant sound experiences by collaborating with audio professionals, influencers, and users.

This manual provides detailed information for the Maonocaster G1 Neo Gaming Audio Mixer, designed to enhance your gaming and streaming audio setup.

Accessory List

• Maonocaster G1 Neo Gaming Audio Mixer
• 3.5mm TRS Audio Cable
• USB-A to C Cable
• User Manual

Description

The Maonocaster G1 Neo Gaming Audio Mixer is an advancement in the Maonocaster series, featuring a captivating RGB lighting design for a visually striking setup. Its compact design integrates seamlessly into your workspace. The reengineered I/O configuration enhances PC compatibility and performance. It includes an XLR input with built-in phantom power and premium preamps for professional-grade audio capture with XLR condenser or dynamic microphones. The mixer offers versatile accompaniment options via Bluetooth or a 3.5mm AUX input. Features like pitch presets, reverb, and four customizable sound pads allow users to elevate their gaming and content creation experience.

Features

• XLR microphone input with powerful preamp
• 48V phantom power for condenser microphones
• Bluetooth and AUX input for audio enrichment
• Independent volume control for microphone and background music
• Fast mute function for inputs
• Two-level noise canceling to reduce ambient noise
• Direct monitoring and loopback switch
• USB-C for easy connection to computers and mobile devices
• Compatible with Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS

Applications

Ideal for Gaming, Streaming, Podcasting, and Recording on computers, tablets, and smartphones. It is compatible with mainstream recording and streaming software.

Specifications

Layout and Controls

Front Panel Layout

The front panel features the following controls:

• Microphone Gain knob (①): Controls the microphone's gain.
• Mic Volume fader (②): Controls the volume for the XLR microphone or headset microphone.
• Level meter (③): Visual indicator of audio levels. Red indicates peaking (potential distortion); green and orange indicate optimal levels.
• Microphone mute button (④): Short press to mute/unmute the microphone input.
• 48V Phantom Power switch (⑤): Enables 48V phantom power for XLR condenser microphones. The LED indicator turns red when active.
• Noise Reducer button (8): Reduces background noise. Short press cycles through low and high noise cancellation modes, or turns off.
• Voice Changer button (9): Adds pitch-changing effects. Short press cycles through available pitch presets or turns off the feature.
• Reverb knob (7): Adjusts the reverb effect level. Rotate fully left to disable.
• Headphones Volume knob (10): Adjusts the volume for headphone output.
• Direct Monitor and Loopback controls: Manage audio monitoring and routing.
• SideChain button (11): Automatically lowers background music volume when you speak, highlighting your voice.
• RGB Switch button (12): Cycles through available RGB lighting modes. Long press to turn off RGB.
• Custom Soundpad Buttons (13): Four buttons for recording and playing custom sound effects (approx. 20s each).
• Power button (②) with indicator light (①): Long press to turn the device on/off.

Rear Panel Connections

The rear panel provides the following connections:

• DC 5V Interface: For powering the device, especially when used with mobile devices requiring an external power supply.
• USB-C Data Interface: For audio data communication with computers and mobile devices. Powers the device if DC 5V is not connected. (Note: Android phones require USB host support; iPhones may need a Lightning to USB Camera Adapter).
• 3.5mm Line Out: Connects to powered speakers or a streaming PC in a dual-PC setup.
• 3.5mm Headphone Jack: Connects studio headphones (TRS plug) or cell phone headsets (TRRS plug).
• 3.5mm AUX IN: Connects external audio sources for background music via a 3.5mm TRS to TRS cable.
• 3.5mm TRRS Headset Jack: Supports CTIA standard TRRS plug headsets. Only one microphone input (XLR or headset) can be used at a time; using this jack disables the XLR input.
• Combo XLR/TRS microphone interface: Accepts XLR or 1/4" (6.35mm) plug microphones, supporting both dynamic and condenser types.

Setup Guide

1. PC Streaming

1. Connect your microphone, headphones, and accompaniment source (e.g., mobile phone) to the appropriate jacks as shown in the diagrams.
2. Connect the Maonocaster G1 Neo to your computer using the included USB-C cable. The computer should automatically recognize and install the driver.
3. Open the Windows sound control panel and set "Maonocaster G1 Neo" as the default playback and recording device.
4. Open your streaming or recording software and confirm "Maonocaster G1 Neo" is selected as the default audio input and output device.

Tip: For a Dual PC streaming setup, connect your Gaming PC's audio output to the AUX port and your Streaming PC via USB-C.

2. Smartphone Connection

1. Connect your streaming smartphone, accompaniment device, headphones, and microphone as depicted in the diagrams.
2. Turn on the device and adjust sound effects as needed.
3. Use a streaming or recording app on your smartphone to begin.

The Maonocaster G1 Neo supports single-person recording and live streaming.

Bluetooth Connectivity

The Maonocaster G1 Neo supports Bluetooth audio input for background music and accompaniment.

Pairing and Connection:

1. Turn on the device; the Bluetooth indicator starts flashing.
2. On your smartphone, go to Bluetooth settings, find "Maonocaster G1 Neo", and connect.
3. The Bluetooth indicator remains solid once connected.
4. Play music or audio from your smartphone.
5. Use a streaming or recording app on your phone for content creation.

Notes:

• Bluetooth connection range is limited; avoid placing the phone too far away.
• Bluetooth connectivity is for audio input only.

Troubleshooting

4.1 Unable to Power On

• Check if the device is powered via USB bus or an external power supply.
• Ensure the power button is pressed and held for over 3 seconds to turn on the device.

4.2 No Sound from External Audio Source

• Verify the external audio source is connected to the AUX input or Bluetooth.
• Check the AUX volume fader and ensure it's not at minimum.
• Confirm the volume on the audio input device itself is turned up.

4.3 No Sound from Headphones

• Ensure the headphone cable is plugged into the "Headphone" jack.
• Turn the "Headphones" knob clockwise to increase volume.

4.4 No Sound from Microphone

• Check microphone connection; unplug and reconnect if necessary.
• Adjust the microphone volume fader upwards.
• Confirm microphone compatibility with Maonocaster G1 Neo or consult Maono for recommendations.
• For XLR condenser microphones, ensure the 48V phantom power is enabled.

4.5 No Sound During Live Streaming

• In your streaming software, ensure "Maonocaster G1 Neo" is set as the default playback and recording device.
• Verify microphone permissions are enabled for the streaming software.
• If using adapters, use official ones from the equipment brand for compatibility.

4.6 How to Obtain Better Sound Quality

• Set microphone and headphone volumes to approximately 75%.
• Gradually adjust microphone gain while testing sound to find the optimal setting.

4.7 Noise Problem

• Operate in a quiet environment, away from electrical appliances.
• Check cable connections and ensure the microphone interface is secure.
• Avoid setting microphone gain too high; try lowering it.
• Use the local recorder for testing instead of third-party software.
• For mobile devices, use MFI-certified cables for Apple devices and original cables for other brands.
• Test with different computer equipment or a mobile phone if issues persist.

For further assistance, contact support@maono.com.

Safety Precautions

To prevent personal injury or property damage from factors like high temperature, noise, radiation, fire, or machinery, use the product in a safe environment and follow these precautions:

• If the product overheats, emits smoke, or strange odors, immediately turn it off, unplug the power cord, and contact a dealer for repair.
• Do not modify, disassemble, or repair the equipment yourself, as this may void the warranty or cause injury. Contact a dealer for assistance.
• Use and store the product in a dry, ventilated, and safe environment. Avoid damp or dusty conditions.
• Prevent rainwater or dust from entering the product to avoid short circuits. Keep away from heat sources, collisions, or severe vibrations, which can cause irreversible damage.
• Do not use the product in situations prohibited by law. Comply with safety regulations for accident prevention.
• This product is not a toy and should be kept out of reach of children.

Regulatory Information

FCC Warning

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to two conditions: (1) it may not cause harmful interference, and (2) it must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. Changes or modifications 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 interference occurs, try reorienting the antenna, increasing separation, connecting to a different circuit, or consulting a dealer/technician.

This equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits for uncontrolled environments and should be installed with at least 20cm separation 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: (1) it may not cause interference, and (2) it must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation. This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003. For RF exposure compliance, maintain a distance of 20cm from the body.

Technical Support & Resources

For technical support, please contact support@maono.com or visit www.maono.com.

The latest user manuals can be obtained by contacting support@maono.com.

Documents / Resources:

• Maono Maonocaster G1 Neo Gaming Audio Mixer User Manual

References:

• Professional Audio Microphone | MAONO Online Store
• User Manual

Final clause: Information and data contained in this manual are subject to change without notice.