Welcome to your new Audient iD4 Audio Interface
To help get you started please visit audient.com/products/iD4 to download the latest software and firmware.
Inside the box:
- iD4 Audio Interface
- USB-C to USB-C cable
- Printed Quick Start Guide
iD4 Overview
Front Panel Description: The front panel of the Audient iD4 features a large central knob for Volume Control, flanked by various buttons and inputs. Key controls include: Monitor Mix knob, Main Meters (LED indicators), Channel 1 (Mic/Line Input) with Gain knob, Channel 2 (Instrument Input) with Gain knob, Volume Knob, iD Button, and Mute Speakers button.
Rear Panel Description: The rear panel provides essential connectivity: a USB-C port for power and data, two 1/4" TRS Line Outputs, a +48V Phantom Power switch with an indicator LED, and a combined XLR/TRS jack for Microphone and Line inputs. The Instrument Input (1/4" TS) and Dual Headphone Outputs (3.5mm and 6.35mm sockets) are also located on the front panel.
Safety Information
Important Safety Instructions
Please read all of these instructions and save them for later reference before connecting the USB cable and powering up iD4.
The iD4 does not operate with any high voltage mains supply internally, but appropriate safety measures should still be adhered to prevent electrical shock and fire hazards. In the event of a unit failure, do not attempt to open the iD4 yourself. Please contact Audient support so that a suitable method of repair or replacement can be recommended.
Consult a qualified technician if you suspect difficulties. Do not attempt to tamper with the unit whilst connected or disconnected – HAZARDOUS TO HEALTH.
WARNING! To reduce risk of fire or electrical shock, DO NOT expose this apparatus to rain or moisture.
No user serviceable parts inside. Please refer servicing to qualified service personnel.
Key Safety Points:
- Read and keep these instructions.
- Heed all warnings and follow all instructions.
- Do not use this equipment near water.
- Clean only with a dry cloth.
- Do not install near heat sources.
- Protect cables from being walked on or pinched.
- Only use manufacturer-specified attachments/accessories.
- Switch off and unplug during lightning storms or long periods of disuse.
- Refer all servicing to qualified personnel.
- Do not expose to dripping or splashing.
Declaration of Conformities
FCC Part 15B
This apparatus has been tested and found to comply with the limits of a class-A digital device, pursuant to Part 15B of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. If this equipment causes harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
- Re-orient or relocate the receiving antenna.
- Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
- Connect the equipment into an outlet on a different circuit from that to which the receiver is connected.
- Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
Audient Ltd, Aspect House, Herriard, Hampshire, RG25 2PN, UK, 01256 381944, declares under its sole responsibility that the product iD4 complies with Part 15 of FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: 1. This device may not cause harmful interference, and 2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
FCC Logo
CE and RoHS
Audient Ltd declares that the product, the iD4, is in material conformity with the appropriate CE standards and directives for an audio product designed for consumer use. Audient Ltd has conformed where applicable, to the European Union's Directive 2002/95/EC on Restrictions of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) as well as relevant sections of California law.
CE Logo
RoHS Logo
Installation
Mac Installation
System Requirements: macOS 10.11.6 (El Capitan) or later; Mac Intel or Apple Silicon CPU; 1GB RAM Minimum.
- Connect iD4: Using the provided USB-C cable, connect the iD4 to a USB-C port on your Mac.
- Check Connectivity: Once connected and powered on, the white USB LED on the iD4 will illuminate. If the USB LED turns off during normal operation, check all connections and contact Audient support if problems persist.
- Set iD4 as Audio Device: In System Preferences > Sound > Output, select iD4. You will also need to select iD4 as the audio device within your chosen Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) software, typically found in its Audio Settings or Preferences menu.
Diagram Description: A visual representation shows a laptop computer connected via a USB-C cable to the Audient iD4 audio interface. The iD4 displays an illuminated white USB LED, indicating a successful connection.
Windows Installation
System Requirements: Windows 7 or later (32 or 64 bit); Intel Core 2 @ 1.6 GHz or AMD equivalent; 1 GB RAM Minimum.
- Download the iD Drivers: Visit audient.com/id4-downloads for the latest Windows installer.
- Connect iD4: Use the provided USB cable to connect the iD4 to your computer's USB port.
- Run iD Driver Setup: Double-click the installer and follow the on-screen instructions.
- Reboot PC: Restart your computer to ensure all drivers are applied.
Connectivity Check: Once connected and powered on, the white USB LED on the iD4 will illuminate. If the LED turns off, check connections and contact Audient Support.
iD Icon: After installing the iD app, an icon will appear in the Windows System Tray (potentially in the hidden icons area). Right-clicking this icon allows changing sample rate, buffer size, and checking for firmware updates.
Set iD4 as Audio Device: Navigate to PC Settings > Control Panel > Hardware and Sound > Sound. Select the "Set Default" option for iD4. Within your DAW, ensure iD4 is selected as the audio device in its Audio Settings or Preferences menu.
Diagram Description: Visuals include the Audient iD application icon in the Windows System Tray, a graphic illustrating a USB connection, the Audient USB Audio Driver setup wizard, and the Windows Sound control panel showing Audient iD selected as the default playback device.
iOS Installation
iOS System Requirements: iD4 is compatible with iOS devices (iOS 6 or later) with lightning or USB-C ports. No drivers are required for iOS or iPadOS operation.
Devices with a Lightning Port: Requires an Apple Camera Connection Kit and an Active USB hub. Connect the USB hub to the Camera Adapter kit, then connect the kit to your iOS device. A charging cable can be plugged into the USB hub/camera kit. Connect the iD4 to a USB port on the Active USB hub.
Device with USB-C Port: Connect the iD4 directly to the iOS device using a USB-C to USB-C cable. The USB-C port provides the necessary voltage for the iD4.
Connectivity Check: Once connected to your iOS device and powered on, the white USB LED on iD4 will illuminate.
Registration & Firmware Update
Registration
iD4 comes bundled with professional software and services. To register your product, visit audient.com/ARC, select "register your product", create an account, and verify your email. Then, enter the serial number and 4-digit PIN found on the underside of the iD4 to access offers and promotions.
Firmware Update
Firmware updates are applied through the iD app.
- macOS: Download the iD app from audient.com/id4-downloads. Drag the app to your applications folder. If an update is available, you will be prompted to install it. The iD app does not need to be running for regular operation.
- Windows: The iD app must be running for firmware update notifications. Right-click the iD icon in the system tray and select 'Check for Updates' to check manually.
- iOS: Firmware updates are not possible directly on iOS. Connect the iD4 to a Mac or Windows computer to update the firmware.
- Offline Computers: If your computer is not connected to the internet, contact Audient Support at support@audient.com for assistance.
Hardware Features
Microphone Preamplifier & Line Input
The iD4 features an Audient Console microphone preamplifier, based on designs from Audient's classic consoles. It uses discrete, Class-A circuitry for low distortion and noise. The unit features Amphenol™ XLR/TRS jack combi-connectors for microphone and line inputs.
To use a condenser microphone, activate phantom power by pressing the +48V switch; the indicator LED will illuminate red. The microphone preamplifiers offer:
- 58 dB of clean gain.
- 48v (±4V) phantom power rated at 10mA.
- > 2.8kΩ input impedance for a punchy tone.
Instrument Input
The iD4 includes a discrete Class-A JFET instrument (D.I.) input on channel 2, ideal for electric/electro-acoustic guitars, basses, and synthesizers. The JFET circuitry adds subtle warmth and character.
Loudspeaker Outputs
Stereo speaker outputs are provided on the back panel via balanced TRS jack connectors. These outputs are fed from high-quality Digital to Analogue Converters (DACs) for clean, detailed audio.
Headphone Outputs
A high current headphone amplifier is accessible via both 3.5mm and 6.35mm sockets on the front panel. Both sockets output the same audio signal simultaneously. Two pairs of headphones can be connected at the same time. This feature is useful for monitoring mixes or providing an artist headphone mix.
Monitor Control
Volume Encoder
The Volume encoder adjusts the volume for speaker and headphone outputs. Pressing the encoder dims the audio by 15 dB, useful for quickly lowering levels without losing the set listening level. The main meters display the set level as it's adjusted.
Monitor Mix
The Monitor Mix knob allows monitoring of mic and D.I inputs alongside computer audio (DAW) with very low latency. For live input monitoring, disable monitoring in your DAW to avoid duplicate signals. Rotating the knob fully to INPUT allows monitoring of true input levels, with the Mic/Line input on the top meter and D.I on the bottom meter.
Note: Listening on speakers while monitoring microphone input in the same room can cause feedback. Ensure speakers are muted or the monitor mix is set to DAW when not using the microphone.
Monitor Pan
The Monitor Pan feature allows panning of the mic pre and DI inputs from left to right for a balanced headphone mix. Press and hold the Mute and iD buttons while turning the Volume Encoder to pan. Clockwise pans channel 1 left and channel 2 right; anti-clockwise pans channel 1 right and channel 2 left. Pressing the encoder while holding Mute and iD resets the pan. Meters display pan positions.
MUTE Speakers Button
This button quickly mutes speaker outputs while allowing audio to pass to headphones, useful for monitoring during recording. If using a microphone in the same room as speakers, mute speakers to prevent unwanted audio pickup or feedback.
General Operation
Sample Rate
The sample rate determines how many times per second the audio level is measured. Common rates include 44.1kHz (CDs, music) and 48kHz (film). Higher sample rates increase file size and CPU requirements.
Buffer Size and Latency
Buffer size affects project smoothness and audio integrity (pops, clicks). It dictates how many audio samples are stored before output. A buffer adds latency, essential for computer processing. For direct monitoring (Monitor Mix knob), a higher buffer size reduces computer strain. For DAW monitoring with effects, a lower buffer size is needed. DAWs may offer track freezing to reduce CPU load. For mixing, a higher buffer size is acceptable. Adjust buffer sizes based on sample rates and CPU requirements.
Diagram Description: Screenshots illustrate buffer size settings in macOS Logic Pro X and iOS Auria Pro, showing typical interface elements for selecting buffer size and related audio parameters.
Operation on macOS
Buffer size is selected within your DAW's audio settings or preferences menu.
Operation on iOS
Buffer size settings are typically found within the specific app's preferences/settings menu or the iOS settings app.
Operation on Windows
Buffer size is set in the iD app before the DAW. Options range from 32 to 4096 samples.
Audio Loop-back
The iD4 includes an Audio Loop-back Mixer to loop audio between applications. Loop-back 1/2 outputs send audio to outputs 3+4 in your DAW without affecting playback.
Diagram Description: A visual representation of the Audio Loop-back Mixer interface shows input channels (MIC 1, MIC 2), main outputs (MAIN OUTPUT 1/2), and loop-back outputs (LOOP-BACK 1/2). It also depicts routing options for input signals.
This feature allows blending Mic and DI inputs with computer playback into a summed stereo feed for recording or streaming. Channels include Mic 1 (rear input), Mic 2 (front DI input), and Main Output 1/2 (DAW playback to headphone/speaker outputs).
To record or stream loop-back audio, select Input 3+4 or Loop-back 1+2 in your audio software. Input names may vary by DAW.
Sending Audio to Loop-back Outputs: Most DAWs allow selecting audio output in their preferences or mixer. For applications without this option, system settings can be adjusted.
macOS: Use the Audio MIDI Setup utility (Finder > Applications > Utilities > Audio MIDI Setup). Select iD4, go to the 'Output' panel, click "Configure Speakers", and set Outputs to Loop-back 1 and Loop-back 2. Click 'Apply' to route audio to loop-back channels.
Windows: In the 'Sound' settings (Control Panel), select 'Loop-back 1+2' as the Output Device in the 'Playback' list.
Diagram Description: Screenshots show the macOS Audio MIDI Setup utility with speaker configuration for loop-back outputs, and the Windows Sound control panel with loop-back selected as the output device.
DAW Setup
Logic Pro Setup
Operation with Logic Pro: Connect iD4, launch Logic Pro, and select iD4 as the Input and Output Device in Logic Pro > Preferences > Audio. For existing sessions, the sample rate adjusts automatically. For new sessions, select the appropriate sample rate in File > Project Settings > Audio.
Set the buffer size in Logic Pro. A higher buffer size is recommended when using the Monitor Mix knob for input monitoring to reduce computer strain. Increase buffer size if experiencing playback stability or overload errors.
If monitoring input signals on iD4, disable Logic's software monitoring in Logic Pro > Preferences > Audio > General > Software Monitoring to avoid duplicate signals.
Diagram Description: Screenshots display Logic Pro X menus for setting audio preferences, project settings (sample rate), and general audio preferences (software monitoring).
Pro Tools Setup
Operation with Pro Tools: For Windows users, follow installation instructions on page 10. Connect iD4, launch Pro Tools, and create a new session at the desired sample rate. On Windows, set Latency and Buffer Size in the iD System Tray before opening Pro Tools. Changing these mid-session requires Pro Tools to restart.
Navigate to Setup > Playback Engine and ensure iD4 is set as the active playback device. Go to Setup > I/O to label inputs and outputs, confirming iD4 reports 2-inputs and 2-outputs.
If using the iD4 Monitor Mix knob for input monitoring, ensure input monitor buttons on audio tracks are not selected to avoid duplicate signals.
Diagram Description: Screenshots show Pro Tools windows for creating a session, selecting the playback engine, and configuring I/O settings.
Cubase/Nuendo Setup
Operation with Cubase / Nuendo: For Windows users, follow installation instructions on page 10. Connect iD4, launch Cubase or Nuendo, and go to Studio > Studio Setup. Select VST Audio System in the devices menu, then select Audient iD4 from the dropdown menu and confirm with "Switch".
Close the VST device setup panel and navigate to the Audio Connections panel (Devices > VST Connections). Ensure all necessary buses are created and assigned for I/O.
If using the iD4 Monitor Mix knob for input monitoring, ensure input monitoring is turned off on the track.
Diagram Description: Screenshots illustrate Cubase/Nuendo's Studio Setup and VST Connections windows, showing device selection and audio port configuration.
Ableton Live Setup
Operation with Ableton Live: For Windows users, follow installation instructions on page 10. Connect iD4, launch Ableton Live, and go to Live > Preferences > Audio. In the Audio tab, assign iD4 as the playback device and select the sample rate and buffer size.
On Windows, set Latency and Buffer Size in the iD System Tray before changing them in Ableton. If monitoring inputs via the Monitor Mix knob, use a reasonably high buffer size to reduce computer strain and ensure input monitoring is turned off on the Ableton track.
Diagram Description: Screenshots show Ableton Live's Preferences > Audio tab for device selection and buffer size, and the DAW's mixer showing monitor settings.
Troubleshooting & FAQ
Troubleshooting
“The unit will not power on”
Double-check the USB cable connection. Try a different USB port or cable. If using a USB hub, connect the iD4 directly to the computer.
“I get clicks and pops on DAW playback”
This is often due to a buffer size set too low for your computer, especially with large projects or many plugins. Experiment with higher buffer sizes. Smaller sizes are good for tracking, while larger sizes are suitable for mixing. Driver conflicts can also cause issues; visit support.audient.com for details.
“When I connect to my computer, I cannot play any audio out from iD4”
Ensure the USB cable is functional and securely connected. Verify iD4 is set as the active playback device in your DAW and computer's sound settings (macOS: System Preferences > Sound > Output; Windows: Control Panel > Hardware and Sound > Sound > Manage Audio Devices). Finally, check that the Monitor Mix knob is set to DAW, not Input.
FAQs
For more information and bug support, search the online Help Centre at support.audient.com. For technical support, create a ticket via the online support system found on the Audient website.
Technical Specifications
D.I / Instrument Input:
- RANGE: 40dB
- LINEUP: 12dBu = 0dBFS
- THD+N @ 0dBu: 0.1%
- SNR: 100dBu A-Weighted
- FREQUENCY RESPONSE - MIN GAIN: ±0.5dB 10Hz to 20kHz
Analogue to Digital Converter:
- THD+N @ -1dBFS: 0.001%
- DYNAMIC RANGE: 120dB A-Weighted
- FREQUENCY RESPONSE: ±0.5dB 10Hz to 40kHz
Line Outputs (DAC):
- LINEUP: 12dBu = 0dBFS
- THD+N @ -1dBFS: 0.0006%
- DYNAMIC RANGE: 125.5dB A-Weighted
- CROSSTALK: >120dB
- FREQUENCY RESPONSE: ±0.1dB 10Hz to 40kHz
- Connector: 1/4" TRS JACK (Tip (Hot), Ring (Cold) & Sleeve (Shield))
Headphone Outputs (Measurements with 100k load):
- LINEUP: 18dBu = 0dBFS
- THD+N @ -1dBFS: 0.0009%
- DYNAMIC RANGE: 125.5dB A-Weighted
- CROSSTALK: >116dB
- FREQUENCY RESPONSE: ±0.1dB 10Hz to 40kHz
- MAXIMUM LEVEL @ 30Ω: 2.59V Peak, 1.827V RMS, 223mW
- MAXIMUM LEVEL @ 62Ω: 4.18V Peak, 2.95V RMS, 280mW
- MAXIMUM LEVEL @ 600Ω: 7.72V Peak, 5.46V RMS, 100mW
- Connector: 1/4" TRS JACK (Tip (Left), Ring (Right) & Sleeve (Shield))
Microphone Preamplifier:
- GAIN RANGE: 58dB
- LINEUP: 12dBu = 0dBFS
- MIC MAX INPUT LEVEL: 12dBu
- MAX INPUT LEVEL: 21dBu
- INPUT IMPEDANCE (Mic): 2.8kΩ
- INPUT IMPEDANCE (Line): >8kΩ
- THD+N @ 0dBu: 0.00170%
- THD+N @ 0dBu MAX GAIN: <0.04%
- SNR: 101dBu A-Weighted
- EIN: 129dB A-Weighted
- CMRR @ 1k: >75dB
- FREQUENCY RESPONSE - MIN GAIN: ±0.5dB 10Hz to 40kHz
USB-C High Speed:
- BUS POWER: 0.9A @ 5V
- MIN REQUIREMENT: ≥USB 3.0 Port
- MAX REQUIREMENT: 1.5A @ 5V (USB-C provides higher headphone output levels)
- No. of INPUT CHANNELS: 2 (2 Analogue)
- No. of OUTPUT CHANNELS: 2 (2 Analogue)
- DSP MIXER LATENCY: ROUND TRIP (in-to-out)
- 44.1kHz: 0.65mS
- 48.0kHz: 0.6mS
- 88.2kHz: 0.33mS
- 96.0kHz: 0.31mS
Dimensions
Diagram Description: Diagrams illustrate the physical dimensions of the Audient iD4. The unit measures 133mm in width, 120mm in height, and approximately 40mm in depth. The rear connector area extends slightly further, with depths noted around 58mm and 60mm. The weight of the unit is 1.0kg.
Warranty
Warranty Statement
The Audient iD4 comes with a one-year (12 months) manufacturer's warranty from the date of despatch. The warranty covers faults due to defective materials and workmanship. During the warranty period, Audient will repair or replace faulty units returned carriage paid to an authorized service centre. Warranty is void if the fault results from unauthorized modification, misuse, negligence, or accident.
Warranty Limitations
This warranty does not cover damage from accident or misuse. Repairs must be carried out by an authorized service centre. The warranty is void if the unit is modified other than as instructed in this manual. It does not cover components with a limited lifespan expected to be replaced periodically. Audient does not warrant operation outside the scope described in this manual.
Audient Ltd Contact:
Audient Ltd
Aspect House
Herriard
Hampshire
RG25 2PN
United Kingdom
Tel: +44 (0) 1256 381944
audient.com
Service
Service Information
The iD4 contains no user-serviceable components. For diagnosis and repair, refer to qualified service personnel. Tampering with the device at component level will void the warranty. Contact Audient Ltd for repair-related questions.
For warranty repairs, contact your dealer. For out-of-warranty repairs, contact Audient Ltd to obtain a Return Materials Authorization (RMA) number. Include the RMA number and a fault description with returned units.
To request an RMA, access technical support & FAQs, or make an enquiry, visit support.audient.com.
Glossary
- A
- Amperes
- ADAT
- Alesis Digital Audio Tape
- ADC
- Analogue to Digital Converter
- DAW
- Digital Audio Workstation
- ASP
- Analogue Signal Processing
- CPU
- Central Processing Unit
- CUE
- Artist Headphone Mix
- DAC
- Digital to Analogue Converter
- dB
- Decibel
- dBu
- Decibel referenced to 0.775Vrms = 0 dBu
- dBFS
- Decibel Full Scale
- DC
- Direct Current
- D.I
- Direct Injection (Instrument Input)
- DoC
- Declaration of Conformity
- DSP
- Digital Signal Processing
- EQ
- Equaliser
- FAQ
- Frequently Asked Questions
- FCC
- Federal Communications Commission
- GB
- Gigabyte
- GUI
- Graphical User Interface
- HPF
- High Pass Filter
- HV
- High Voltage
- I/O
- Input / Output
- JFET
- Junction Field Effect Transistor
- LED
- Light Emitting Diode
- RoHS
- Restriction of Hazardous Substances
- RAM
- Random Access Memory
- S/PDIF
- Sony Philips Digital Interface Format
- THD+N
- Total Harmonic Distortion + Noise
- TRS
- Tip Ring Sleeve (1/4" Jack Balanced)
- TS
- Tip Sleeve (1/4" Jack Unbalanced)
- USB
- Universal Serial Bus
- V
- Volts
- XLR
- Extra Live Return, Extremely Low Resistance, Canon X Series, Latching, Resilient Rubber Compound... or make up your own!
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