Audient iD14: High Performance USB Audio Interface

Introduction

Thank you for purchasing the Audient iD14. The iD14 condenses the renowned sound quality of Audient consoles into a compact, elegant box. It features two world-class Audient mic preamps, high-quality Burr Brown AD/DA converters, advanced monitor control, and the innovative Scroll Control. The iD14 serves as the central hub of your studio with its excellent functionality and intuitive user interface.

Key Features

• AD/DA Converter: High-performance 24-bit/96kHz AD/DA converters from Burr Brown (2-in, 4-out).
• Inputs: Two Class-A Audient console mic preamps and one discrete JFET D.I. input for instruments.
• Headphone Amplifier: High-output amplifier with independent DAC.
• Monitor Control: Software-based monitor control.
• iD ScrollControl Mode: iD scroll control mode.
• ADAT Input: For expansion.
• USB 2.0: Compatible.
• DSP Mixer: Low-latency DSP mixer.

Package Contents

The iD14 package includes the following hardware:

• iD14 unit
• 12VDC power adapter (with country-specific AC plugs)
• USB (A-B) cable

Software (firmware, iD Mixer) and manuals are not included. Please download them from the following web pages:

• Software Download URL: http://audient.com/products/downloads/id14
• Japanese Manual Download URL: http://allaccess.co.jp/audient/id14/

Power Adapter

The iD14 can be bus-powered via USB. For phantom power, use the 12VDC power supply. The included switching power adapter supports 90-264V AC (47-63Hz) and is usable in Japan. Use the appropriate plug for Japanese outlets.

iD14 Overview

Front Panel

The front panel features:

• Ch.1 Gain: 0-56 dB
• Ch.2 Gain: 0-56 dB
• 48V Phantom Power: Button to engage phantom power.
• Main Meters: 8-segment LED meters indicating signal level.
• Encoder: Primary control knob for volume and parameter adjustment.
• Encoder Mode Button: Selects different functions for the encoder.
• Headphone Volume Select Button: Controls headphone output volume.
• USB Status LED: Indicates USB connection status.
• Speaker Volume Select Button: Selects speaker output.
• iD Button: Multifunction button, often used for Scroll Control.

Diagram shows the front panel of the Audient iD14 with controls labeled.

Rear Panel

The rear panel provides connectivity:

• 12VDC Input: For the power adapter.
• USB Input: Connects to the computer.
• Optical Input: Digital input (ADAT/SPDIF).
• Speaker Output (1L OUT 2R): Balanced outputs for monitors.
• Mic/Line Input 1: Neutrik combo jack.
• Mic/Line Input 2: Neutrik combo jack.

Diagram shows the rear panel of the Audient iD14 with connections labeled.

Bottom Panel

The bottom panel includes:

• D.I. Input: For connecting instruments directly.
• Headphone Output: Standard headphone jack.

Diagram shows the bottom panel of the Audient iD14 with D.I. and Headphone outputs labeled.

Quick Start Installation

Mac OSX Installation

System Requirements: OS X 10.8.5 (Mountain Lion) or later, Intel CPU, 1GB RAM.

Setup:

1. Download Software & Drivers: Download the latest iD software and drivers from audient.com/products/. Select iD14 and navigate to the Download tab. Expand the downloaded .dmg file and copy the application to your hard drive.
2. Connect iD14: Connect the iD14 to your Mac's USB port using the included USB cable. Connect the power adapter if you intend to use phantom power.
3. Status LED: The STATUS LED will illuminate when a connection is established. If the LED does not light up, recheck your connections. Contact ALL ACCESS support if the issue persists.
4. Verify iD14 Recognition: Check if the i/O device is recognized correctly in Macintosh HD > Applications > System Preferences > Sound.
5. Audio MIDI Setup: You can also verify and configure connection settings using the Audio MIDI Setup utility found in Macintosh HD > Applications > Utilities.

Screenshot of Mac System Preferences > Sound settings showing Audient iD14 as an output device.

Screenshot of Audio MIDI Setup showing Audient iD14 with its input/output configuration.

Windows Installation

System Requirements: Windows 7 or later (32/64-bit), Intel Core 2 @ 1.6 GHz or AMD, 1GB RAM.

Setup:

1. Download Software & Drivers: Download the latest iD software and drivers from audient.com/products/. Select iD14 and navigate to the Download tab.
2. Connect iD14: Connect the iD14 to your PC's USB port using the included USB cable. Connect the power adapter if you intend to use phantom power.
3. Install Software: Double-click the installer file to launch the iD Mixer Setup wizard and follow the on-screen instructions.
4. Restart PC: Restart your computer to ensure all drivers are installed correctly.
5. Status LED: The STATUS LED will illuminate when a connection is established. If the LED does not light up, recheck your connections. Contact ALL ACCESS support if the issue persists.
6. iD Icon: After installation, an iD icon will appear in the Windows System Tray. Double-click the icon to open the iD14 Mixer. Right-click to change sample rate, buffer size, and latency settings.

Latency: Latency refers to the delay that occurs during data transmission. For mixing, it is recommended to set latency to 'Standard' and buffer size to 256. For recording, try lower latency and buffer settings. Ensure you set the optimal value based on your PC's specifications.

• Latency Modes: Minimum (1ms), Low (2ms), Standard (4ms), Relaxed (8ms), Safe (16ms), Extra Safe (32ms).

Screenshots showing the iD Mixer's latency and buffer size settings.

iD Mixer Application Launch

The mixer application is located in:

• Mac: Macintosh HD > Applications > iD
• Windows: Start > All Programs > Audient > iD

The 'iD14 Mixer' can only be used when the iD14 is connected. Right-clicking allows you to exit the application, and set latency or ASIO buffer sizes.

Firmware Update

When the iD Mixer shows update information, click NEXT to start the update. Click UPDATE on the subsequent screen to complete the process, then close the window.

Firmware can be updated in two ways:

• Use the 'From file' option in the menu to select a downloaded firmware file.
• Check for updates directly within the iD Mixer software and update from there.

Screenshots illustrating the firmware update process in the iD Mixer.

Hardware Features

Mic/Line Inputs (1-2)

The iD14 features two Neutrik combo jacks that accept both XLR and 1/4" TRS connections. These inputs are equipped with low-noise, discrete Class-A Audient console mic preamps, providing a fast, clean sound with minimal distortion. The input impedance for microphones is 2.8kΩ, and for line signals, it is >8kΩ. The unit includes a phase reverse switch and a 10dB pad for adjusting signal levels.

Mic Preamp Specifications:

• Gain: 0 to +60 dB (with 10 dB software boost)
• Phantom Power: 48V (±4V @ 10mA)
• Input Impedance (Mic): 2.8kΩ
• Input Impedance (Line): >8kΩ
• Max Input Level: +12dBu (0dBFS digital maximum)
• Frequency Response: ±0.1 dB 20Hz-22kHz (min gain), ±1.0 dB 20Hz-22kHz (max gain)
• Crosstalk: <-90dBu
• THD+N @ 0dBu (1kHz): <0.0025% (-92 dBu)
• SN Ratio: 96dB (unloaded), 99 dB (A-weighted loaded)

Image showing the two Neutrik combo input jacks on the rear panel.

D.I. Input (Channel 1)

The D.I. input is a JFET Class-A discrete design for instruments. This unbalanced TS jack on Channel 1 prioritizes instrument input over mic/line inputs. It features a phase reverse switch and a 10dB boost for fine-tuning signal levels.

• Gain: 0 to +66 dB (with 10 dB software boost)
• Max Input Level: +9 dBu (0.6% THD)
• Input Impedance: >500kΩ unbalanced
• Frequency Response: ±0.1dB 20Hz - 22kHz
• THD+N @ 0dBu (1kHz): <0.04%
• SN Ratio: 96dB

Image showing the D.I. input jack on the front panel.

Digital Input

The iD14 includes an optical digital input that supports ADAT (up to 8 channels at 44.1/48kHz, 4 channels at 88.2/96kHz) and S/PDIF (2 channels). These formats can be switched via the iD Mixer software. Both formats support sample rates up to 96kHz.

Image showing the Optical Digital Input port.

Speaker Output

The iD14's balanced speaker outputs utilize technology found in Audient's flagship consoles, like the ASP8024. The clean and linear audio signal from the Burr Brown DACs provides excellent sound quality for critical listening. These outputs can also be configured to send stereo or two mono signals for multi-musician sessions.

Image showing the balanced speaker outputs (1L OUT 2R) on the rear panel.

Headphone Output

The front-mounted headphone output features a discrete high-current headphone amplifier designed for excellent performance with various headphone impedances. A dedicated DAC ensures high-quality audio is delivered to the headphones. The audio sent to the headphone output can be assigned within the iD Mixer software.

Image showing the headphone output jack on the front panel.

Monitor Control

The iD14 offers monitor control features comparable to larger Audient consoles. Monitor levels are managed by the custom aluminum encoder and encoder buttons on the front panel. This allows for independent adjustment of headphone and speaker volume to achieve precise matching. The three encoder buttons are used for selecting monitor modes, such as speaker or headphone output selection.

The iD Button is a key feature, offering the 'Scroll Control Mode'. This mode assigns scroll wheel functionality to the encoder, enabling precise control over DAW automation and other parameters. The iD button can also be assigned to functions like Talkback or Phase Reverse. When a function is assigned to the iD button, the encoder controls the volume of the last selected output.

Speaker/Headphone Selection Buttons: Pressing the speaker button (right) or headphone button (left) allows you to adjust their respective output levels. Pressing the encoder mutes the selected output; the encoder button will flash when muted.

Image showing the front panel controls including the encoder, buttons, and LED meters.

Meters and Status LED

Meters: The unit features 8-segment LED meters that display signal levels, optimized for digital recording. The meters indicate peak levels.

Status LED: The STATUS LED indicates the USB connection status between the iD14 and the computer.

Image showing the 8-segment LED meters.

Image showing the STATUS LED.

Kensington Lock

A Kensington lock slot is provided on the side of the iD14 for security, useful in educational or shared environments.

Image showing the Kensington lock slot on the side of the unit.

Software Features (iD Mixer)

Input Channel Configuration

The iD Mixer allows you to select one of three input types for each channel: Analog Input (Blue), Digital Input (Green), or DAW Mix (Purple). The color coding on the channel strips changes accordingly. You can also name each channel, for example, 'Kick', to better organize your workflow.

Screenshot of the iD Mixer interface showing channel strips with different input types and color coding.

Channel Strip Controls

Each channel strip offers comprehensive control:

• Gain Boost: +10dB gain boost.
• Phase Reverse Switch: Inverts the signal polarity.
• CUE Send: Adjusts the level and pan for the cue mix.
• Parameter Display Box: Typically shows the PAN setting. Hovering the mouse over a control displays its current parameter value.
• Solo (S) & Mute (M): Toggles solo and mute for individual channels. These are latching controls; click to toggle on/off. If another track is soloed, clicking the solo button on a different track will disengage the first solo. Clicking the solo button on a soloed track again will disengage all solos.
• Channel Fader: Controls the channel's output level, with a range from +6dB to off.
• Channel Meter: Displays signal level with a 66dB range. Features peak hold; the peak indicator remains lit until clicked to reset.
• Channel Label: Allows naming channels with up to 8 characters.

Detailed view of a channel strip in the iD Mixer, highlighting controls like Gain, Phase, Cue, Pan, Solo/Mute, and Fader.

Stereo Link

All channels can be stereo linked, unifying their level controls while allowing individual PAN adjustments for stereo positioning. When unlinked, each channel has its own level and pan control. When linked, there is a common level control and individual pan controls.

Diagram illustrating the difference between linked and unlinked channel controls.

Convenient Features

• All controls in the iD Mixer change color during mouse interaction for better visual feedback.
• All controls support mouse scroll wheel operation.

Image showing a channel strip with visual feedback changes.

Master Section

The Master Section provides overall control:

• Main Meters: 66dB range, displaying the output levels of the DSP mix bus. These are mirrored by the unit's hardware LED meters.
• Meter Calibration: 0~6dBFS in 1dB steps, -8~-56dBFS in 2dB steps. Peak hold is active; click the peak indicator to reset. Alt+click clears all peaks.
• System Panel Button: Clicking this opens the iD14's setup and routing matrix.
• Encoder Mode Icons: Indicate mute status for outputs.
• Main Output Control: Control the main output volume via the encoder by dragging.
• Mono Sum Button: Sums the L&R outputs of the iD14 DSP mixer to mono.
• Polarity Reverse Button: Inverts the polarity of one channel in a stereo signal, automatically summing to mono. This is useful for isolating specific elements like reverb or finding buried signals in a mix.

Screenshot of the Master Section of the iD Mixer, showing meters, encoder, and buttons.

iD Button Program Change

The iD button can be assigned various functions. Right-click on the iD button switch in the iD Mixer to select a function from the list.

• ScrollControl: Use the encoder as a scroll wheel for precise parameter adjustment in compatible plugins and DAWs.
• Mono: Sums stereo signals to mono for output, useful for online streaming or mixing computer audio.
• Mono + Polarity: Inverts the phase of the L channel in a stereo signal and sums it to mono (L-R). This cancels out center-panned signals, allowing you to hear elements like reverb or specific sounds more clearly.
• Dim: Attenuates the output level by -15dB. This function automatically engages when Talkback is activated.
• Talkback: Assigning the iD button to Talkback is convenient for recording. Refer to page 22 for details.

Screenshot showing the iD button function assignment menu.

System Panel

Clicking 'SYSTEM' in the Master Section opens the System Panel. Here you can configure Talkback channel assignments, digital input settings, mono mode, and output routing.

Shortcuts: Mac: Command + 4, Windows: Ctrl + 4.

When using the iD14's optical input, the connected device acts as the clock master. Set the sample rate on the connected device and select 'Optical' as the Clock Source in the iD14. The STATUS LED indicates the clock sync status:

• Red: Clock signal not recognized.
• Yellow: Clock signal recognized, but sample rate mismatch.
• Green: Clock locked and synchronizing correctly.

Screenshot of the System Panel in the iD Mixer.

Setup Screen

Digital Input Format: Configure the format for the digital input (Optical): ADAT (8 channels for 44.1-48kHz, 4 channels for 88.2-96kHz) or SPDIF (2 channels).

Clock Source: Select between 'Internal Clock' (INTERNAL) and 'External Clock' (OPTICAL). It is essential to match the sample rate with your DAW session.

Status LED: Indicates external clock lock (synchronization).

Talkback Settings: Assign channels for Talkback. Talkback audio is sent only to the Cue mix, preventing feedback loops.

Mono Mode: Sets speaker positioning for Mono Sum. Options include L, R (for single speaker output), or C (for simulated mono center playback).

Routing Matrix: Select monitor mixes to assign to speaker and headphone outputs.

Save & Load: Save and load mixer settings.

Screenshot of the Setup Screen in the iD Mixer, showing Digital Input, Clock Source, Talkback, Mono Mode, and Routing Matrix settings.

Specifications

Mic Preamp (Measured on ADC Signal Path)

• Mic Gain: 0 to +60 dB (10 dB software boost)
• Line Gain: -10 to +56 dB (-10dB Pad)
• Phantom Power: 48V ± 4V @ 10mA (when using 12VDC adapter)
• Mic EIN (Equivalent Input Noise): <-127.0 dBu
• CMRR (Common Mode Rejection Ratio): >80 dB @ 1kHz
• Max Input Level: +12 dBu (0 dBFS digital maximum)
• Input Impedance (Mic): 2.8kΩ balanced
• Input Impedance (Line): >8kΩ balanced
• Frequency Response: ±0.1 dB 20Hz - 22kHz @ min gain; ±1.0 dB 20Hz - 22kHz @ max gain
• Crosstalk: <-90 dBu
• THD+N @ 0 dBu (1kHz): <0.0025% (-92 dBu)
• SN Ratio: 96 dB (unloaded), 99 dB (A-weighted loaded)
• Connectors: XLR (Pin 2 Hot, Pin 3 Cold, Pin 1 Shield); 1/4" Jack (Tip Hot, Ring Cold, Sleeve Shield)

D.I. (Channel 1)

• D.I. Gain: 0 to +66 dB (10 dB software boost)
• Max Input Level: +9 dBu (0.6% THD)
• Input Impedance: >500kΩ unbalanced
• Frequency Response: ±0.1dB 20Hz - 22kHz
• THD+N @ 0 dBu (1kHz): <0.04%
• SN Ratio: 96 dB
• Connector: 1/4" Jack (Tip Hot, Ring Cold, Sleeve Shield)

ADC Line Input (Measured with Mic Preamp Thru)

• Max Input Level: +12 dBu (0 dBFS digital maximum)
• Digital Reference Level: +12 dBu = 0 dBFS
• Input Impedance: >10kΩ balanced
• Frequency Response: ±0.1 dB 10Hz - Fs/2 (flat to nyquist)
• Crosstalk: -100 dBu @ 1kHz & 10kHz
• THD+N @ -1dBFS (1kHz): <0.002% (-94dB)
• THD+N @ -6dBFS (1kHz): <0.0015% (-96.5 dB)
• Dynamic Range: 113 dB (unloaded), 116 dB (A-weighted loaded)

Headphone Output / DAC 3 & 4 (Measured via AES-17)

• Max Output Level: +12 dBu
• Digital Reference Level: +12 dBu = 0 dBFS
• Output Impedance: <30Ω unbalanced
• Frequency Response: 5Hz - Fs/2 (+/-1.0dB)
• Crosstalk: <-100 dBu @ 1kHz & 10kHz
• THD+N @ -1dBFS (1kHz): <0.002% (-94 dB)
• Dynamic Range: 108 dB (unloaded), 111 dB (A-weighted loaded)
• Connector: 1/4" Jack (Tip Hot, Ring Cold, Sleeve Shield)

Digital Input

• ADAT: Available for 8 channels (44.1-48kHz) or 4 channels (88.2-96kHz).
• STEREO S/PDIF (Optical): Available for 44.1 - 96kHz.

USB2.0 HIGH SPEED

• Bus Power: 500mA @ 5V (425mA @ 5V without phantom power)
• Max Total Input Channels: Analog x2, Digital x8
• Max Total Output Channels: Analog x4
• DSP Mixer Latency: Round trip
• 44.1kHz: 1.660ms
• 48.0kHz: 1.531ms
• 88.2kHz: 0.844ms
• 96.0kHz: 0.771ms

DAC Output (Measured via AES-17 for Line Output)

• Max Output Level: +12 dBu
• Digital Reference Level: +12 dBu = 0 dBFS
• Output Impedance: <100Ω
• Frequency Response: 10Hz - Fs/2 (±0.1dB)
• Crosstalk: -105 dBu @ 1kHz & 10kHz
• THD+N @ -1dBFS (1kHz): <0.003% (-90.5 dB)

Troubleshooting

Power Issues

• Check the power adapter connection.
• If the adapter is not functioning correctly, contact service for checks. Avoid attempting measurements with test equipment if you lack technical experience, as this can be dangerous.

No Sound When Connected to Computer

• Ensure the USB cable is properly connected.
• Launch the iD Mixer software and verify that the computer recognizes the unit.
• Check the DAW's channel output settings to ensure they are assigned to the iD14.
• Verify that the iD Mixer faders are up.
• Confirm that the iD14 is set as the output device in your operating system's sound preferences.
• Mac: System Preferences > Sound > Output tab > USB Device.
• Windows: Start Menu > Control Panel > Hardware and Sound > Sound.

Screenshot of Mac Sound preferences showing device selection.

Clock Sync Issues (ProTools and External Devices)

• Verify that the iD14 is recognized as an audio device.
• Mac: Applications > Utilities > Audio MIDI Setup.
• Windows: Start Menu > Control Panel > Hardware and Sound > Sound.
• In the iD Mixer, ensure the clock source is set correctly. Use 'Internal' if the iD14 is the clock master, or select the input format (ADAT or SPDIF) if an external device is the master.
• Ensure the sample rate is set correctly. Match the sample rate in your DAW session with the setting in the iD Mixer (via the dropdown window).

Screenshot of Audio MIDI Setup showing clock source and format settings.

Resetting iD Mixer Settings

Close the iD Mixer software and delete the file named 'state.xml' from the following folder:

• Mac: User > Library > Application Support > Audient > iD
• Windows: C: > Program Files > Audient > USBAudio Driver
• Do not delete the folder itself.

Checking for Firmware Updates

You can check for updates via the 'HELP' menu and selecting 'Check for Updates'. Updates can also be performed from this screen. Alternatively, visit the Audient website for the latest firmware information and downloads.

Screenshot of the Audient Help Desk website.

Keyboard Shortcuts