Guitar Recording Interface User Manual V1.0
audient.com Welcome and Thank You Contents
Thank you for Features Include: Welcome and Thank you 2 Two notes Remote Software 40 Sono Overview 4 • Classic Valve Guitar Preamp choosing this Box Contents 6 Overview 41 Audient Product • Two Console Mic Preamps Saftey Information 7 Initial Setup 42 • Two Notes Power Amp and Cab Simulation Declaration of Conformities 9 Cabinets 43 Sono was designed to be the ultimate audio Device Setup: 11 Microphones 44 interface for guitarists. • 3 Band Tone Control Installation on Mac 12 Rooms 45 Installation on Windows 14 Sono provides a valve Guitar channel • 3 Customisable Hardware Presets Effects Rack 46 featuring a real high voltage 12AX7 and Saving Presets 47 classic 3-band tone controls, plus power amp • Re-amp Output Hardware Features: 16 and cabinet simulation from Two Notes. Cabinet Manager 48 Guitar Pre-amp Channel 17 • Optical Inputs via ADAT or S/PDIF Mic Pres 21 There is also two Audient console mic pre’s for DAW Setup 49 great sounding recordings and optical inputs • Integrated Low Latency DSP Mixer Monitor and Headphone 22 to expand your setup using ADAT or S/PDIF. Monitor Mix 22 Pro Tools Setup 50 • High Quality Monitor and Headphone Optical Input 22 Logic Pro X Setup 51 We’re sure Sono will become the centre of Outputs Speaker Outputs 22 Cubase/Nuendo Setup 53 your guitar rig, whether you’re recording at the Headphone Output 23 studio, practising at home or playing on the • USB2.0 Connectivity To-Amp Output 23 Other DAWs 55 road. Signal Flow Diagrams 24 Support & ARC 55 Sono Application 30 Specifications 56 Getting Started 29 Warranty & Contact 57 Sono Application Menu 30 Service 59 Mixer Overview 31 Glossary 60 Channel Strips 32 Master Section 34 System Panel 35 Clocking 36 Routing Matrix 36 Talkback Setup 37 Firmware Update 38 Saving/Opening Presets 38 Keyboard Shortcuts 39
2 3 Sono Overview Sono Overview
Microphone To 12V DC Valve Switch USB C Input Speaker Power Outputs Input
Speaker Output Headphone Level Output Mic Pre Gain Level Monitor Mix Control ‘Mic Input To Valve’ Indicator
Power Switch Phantom Power Switch Mic/Line Status Light Optical Input Input Phantom Power Indicator
Re-amp Three Output Band Tone Power Cab Simulation Control Guitar Guitar Preamp Present Selector Preamp Amp Drive Output Meter Input Gain Control Guitar Preamp Output Volume
Guitar Input Headphone Output
4 5 Box Contents and Setup Safety Information
In your Sono packaging you should find the Important Safety Instructions following items: Please read all of these instructions and save Sono utilises an external switch-mode power • Sono them for later reference before connecting supply that is very quiet and rated at 2A. This • 12V DC Power Supply with Regional the DC power adapter to the mains and switch-mode design will accept any A.C Adaptors powering up Sono. line voltage from 100v to 240v @ 50/60Hz. • USB Type C cable Therefore the unit will work anywhere in the • USB Type C to Type A Cable To prevent electrical shock and fire hazard world but please ensure your A.C mains line • Quick Start Guide follow all instructions on the 12VDC power voltage is within this specification. supply. Sono itself does not operate with any Please visit www.audient.com/products/ high voltage mains supply inside the unit but Consult a qualified technician if you suspect sono to download the latest Sono software appropriate safety measures should still be difficulties. Do not attempt to tamper with the supporting documentation and brochures for adhered to regarding the AC/DC supply. power supply or mains voltages - HAZARDOUS our product range. TO HEALTH. Ensure that the appropriate Please ensure you only use the included Sono international pin adapter is fitted to the power The 12V DC power supply comes with power supply. We cannot recommend the supply before insertion into the mains socket. interchangeable UK, EU, US and Australian usage of third party power supplies. In the Socket Adaptors and will work across a event of a power supply failure do not open Valves must be replaced by a qualified broad range of Mains Voltages, making Sono the 12VDC supply. If required, please contact technician. globally portable. Audient support so that a suitable replacement can be sourced. We hope that you enjoy using Sono! audient.com/support
! WARNING ! TO REDUCE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPARATUS TO RAIN OR MOISTURE. NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE.
PLEASE REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.
6 7 Safety Information Declaration of Conformities
Important Safety Instructions FCC Part 15B
1. Read these instructions 11. Refer all servicing to qualified service This apparatus has been tested and found 1. Re-orient or relocate the receiving antenna personnel. Servicing is required when to comply with the limits of a class-A digital 2. Keep these instructions the equipment has been damaged in any device, pursuant to Part 15B of the FCC Rules. 2. Increase the separation between the way, such as power supply cord or plug These limits are designed to provide equipment and receiver 3. Heed all warnings is damaged, liquid has been spilled or reasonable protection against harmful inter- objects have fallen into the equipment, ference in a residential installation. This equip- 3. Connect the equipment into an outlet on 4. Follow all instructions the equipment has been exposed to rain ment generates, uses and can radiate radio a different circuit from that to which the or moisture, does not operate normally, frequency energy and, if not installed and receiver is connected. 5. Do not use this equipment near water or has been dropped used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communi- 4. Consult the dealer or an experienced 6. Clean only with dry cloth 12. For products that are a mains powered cations. If this equipment does cause harmful radio/TV technician for help device: The equipment shall not be interference to radio or television reception, 7. Do not install near any heat sources such exposed to dripping or splashing and no which can be determined by turning the as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or objects filled with liquids (such as vases) equipment off and on, the user is encouraged other equipment (including amplifiers) shall be placed on the equipment. to try to correct the interference by one or that produce heat more of the following measures:
8. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, cosult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet
9. Protect power cords from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the equipment Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer
10. Unplug this equipment during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time
8 9 Declaration of Conformities
We, Audient Ltd, Aspect House, Herriard, Hampshire, RG25 2PN, UK, 01256 381944, declare under our sole responsibility that the product Sono complies with Part 15 of FCC Rules.
Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
1. This device may not cause harmful interference, 2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation Device Setup We, Audient Ltd, declare that the product, Sono, to which this declaration relates, 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 the following sections of California law which refer to RoHS, namely sections 25214.10, 25214.10.2, and 58012, Health and Safety Code; Section 42475.2, Public Resources
Please note that Audient Sono is exempt from the EC 1275/2008 power management requirement for the following reason:
Sono is designed with the musical instrument input being the primary functional input of the device. When a musical instrument is connected, Sono must be active to wait for a signal. During a recording session it can take a long time until a musical instrument is actually played. If Sono would go into a standby mode or similar, this will cause a disruption to a recording session as the user would expect the unit to be operational even if the musical instrument input is not being actively used.
10 MacOS Installation MacOS Installation
System Requirements Connect Sono 4. Double Checking Connectivity Menu/Task Bar Icons
• MacOS: 10.7.5 (Lion) or later (64 Bit) Using the USB cable provided, connect To ensure Sono has been detected by your On MacOS, the Sono icon appears in the • Mac: Intel CPU, 1GB RAM Minimum Sono to your computer’s USB port. Then computer, navigate to: menu bar in the top right hand corner of the connect the included 12v DC power adaptor. screen. This gives you quick access to various Download the Latest Sono Software Macintosh HD > Applications > System functions of the Sono. Preferences Head to our website for the latest version of our Sono Software: Check that Sono is set as your audio device for both the input device and the output device. It’s audient.com/products/downloads/sono also recommended to disable system sounds so you don’t get annoying dings while you are Open the downloaded .pkg file to start the recording. installer. Follow the installer process through, heeding any instructions from the installer.
Show Mixer
If the mixer window has been hidden, this will To USB Port bring it back to the forefront.
Quit
To Mains Fully closes the Sono mixer application. Power (100v - 240v) About Sono
Displays information regarding the current Status Light version of the Sono mixer application.
Once connected, the status light of the Sono Visit Sono Knowledge Base will illuminate. Opens a browser windows for the Audient Helpdesk with helpful articles and FAQ’s.
Check for Updates
The Sono app will check with the Audient update server for any available firmware updates for Sono.
If at any time the status LED turns off during normal operation please check all connections and if further problems develop please contact Audient support.
12 13 Windows Installation Windows Installation
System Requirements 4. Double Checking Connectivity
• Windows 7 or later (64 bit) To double check the connection, go to PC • Intel Core 2 @ 1.6 GHz, or AMD sound settings by following: equivalent • 1 GB RAM Minimum PC Settings > Control Panel > Hardware and Sound > Sound Connect Sono Here you can see whether Sono is visible to Using the USB cable provided, connect the PC and you can make it the computers Sono to your computer’s USB port. Then default sound device by pressing ‘Set Default’. connect the included 12v DC power adaptor. You would need to do this for both the ‘Playback’ and the ‘Recording’ Device to use both the inputs and the outputs of Sono
Status Light Sono Icon
Once connected, the status light of the Sono Once installed, the Sono icon can be found will illuminate. in the Windows system tray (it may be in the hidden icons area).
Please note, on Windows, the Sono icon will To USB Port only appear when the Sono is connected and powered on.
To Mains Power (100v - 240v)
If at any time the status LED turns off Download the Latest Sono Software during normal operation please check all connections and if further problems develop Head to our website for the latest version of please contact Audient support. our Sono software: audient.com/products/downloads/sono
Open the downloaded .exe file to start the installer. Follow the installer process through, More details regarding the system tray menu heeding any instructions from the installer. can be found on page 33.
Once the installer has completed, we would recommend rebooting both the Computer and the Sono before use.
14 15 Hardware Features
Guitar Preamp Channel
Sono includes a dedicated guitar channel Guitar utilising a High Voltage 12AX7 valve and can be treated just like the input of a classic valve amplifer. This section will explain the stages of the Guitar Preamp channel and how they can Valve Stage 1 all be used to dial in your perfect tone.
The Signal Chain of the Guitar Channel can be Hardware Features seen to the left. Input Volume Each part of this chain is then discussed in Control more detail in the next few pages.
Three Band Tone Control
Valve Stage 2
Output Volume Control
Analogue to Digital Conversion
Two Notes Torpedo Processing
17 Hardware Features Hardware Features
Guitar Channel increasing the volume of your guitars output Three Band Tone Control as explained above or through the use of Sono is designed to work with a wide variety of pedals such as Boost’s or Overdrives. The Three Band control allows you to boost Guitars, including bases. The high impedance or attenuate your Bass, Mids and Treble by valve input means that regardless of whether The second stage can be distorted in the roughly ±15 dB you’re using a Classic Single Coil Blues Guitar, same manner, however, you can further a humbucker equipped Rock Axe or a Modern control this saturation using the Input Gain How you set these depends massively on the Active Pickup Metal Machine, you’ll still get the and Tone Controls. This is explained in more guitar you are using and the genre you are same response and feel as you would get from detail in the sections below. playing. a valve amplifier. Two Notes Torpedo Processing However, pristine clean tones can still easily If you are using a guitar with single coil pick- Experimenting with the Volume and Tone be achieved with Sono by simply keeping the ups for example, rolling off a little treble can Finally, the guitar signal passes through Sono’s control of the Guitar itself can often give great levels a little lower. remove some of the harshness, or even turn it on-board Two notes power amp and cabinet results. For example, changing the volume up to really cut through a dense mix. simulation. during a solo can change the amount of Input Control saturation you get from the Valve stages, Likewise, for a metal tone, adding Bass and The drive control on Sono controls the amount adding another dimension of dynamics to The Input controls how volume is provided Mids can help thicken up a tone and give a of saturation given by the power amplifier your performance. after the first valve stage. This then affects heavier sound. simulation. This allows you to get the massive the amount of level being fed into the three tones from a guitar amp turned up to 11, but at Valve Stages 1 & 2 band tone control and the second valve stage much more manageable levels. which will affect the tone achieved through The 12AX7 valve used in Sono is made up of these stages. Likewise, a small amount of Drive can give a two separate amplification stages inside a subtle crunch to spice up a blues or jazz tone. single glass envelope. As explained previously, cranking this up to full can result in saturation whereas keeping it low will give you sparkling clean tones. Output Control
The Output control allows you to attenuate the signal after the second valve stage before the signal is fed into the A/D converter.
The first of these two valve stages is found This means that if you’ve been really driving The Torpedo processing also offers a wealth of directly after the guitar input of Sono. The the input with lots of gain to cause saturation. cabinets, microphones and tonal adjustments Second stage is located after the three band You can then dial back the volume slightly so to fine tune your tone which can be adjusted Tone control, just before the output volume that you don’t clip the A/D converter which will using the Torpedo Remote application control. cause unpleasant sounding hard clipping. More information about this can be found on These valves stages can both be pushed into The meter to the right of the Output control page 39 of this manual. harmonic saturation by increasing the level can be used to gauge how much volume is that is fed into them, giving you break-up or being sent to the A/D converter. You would distortion. want to adjust the Output volume until the signal is peaking around the ‘Good’ light on The input valve stage can be pushed into the meter. harmonic saturation by simply increasing the level being fed into Sono. This can be done by
18 19 Hardware Features Hardware Features
Sono offers three hardware presets which Recording With Sono Mic Pres allow you to store your three favourite Two Phantom power is independently switched notes settings. Whilst playing through Sono, two copies of Sono also offers two Audient console mic pres for each channel, allowing you to use a your incoming signal can be captured, this will for connecting microphones to the device. condenser style microphone in one channel, These can be selected by pressing the C.A.B be the signal that has been passed through whilst also using a ribbon microphone, which button and cycling through the A, B and C the Two notes Torpedo processing and a These are the same mic pres as used on our may be damaged by +48V phantom power, in settings, indicated by the three lights above version that has not. renowned large format consoles so whether the second channel. the buttons. you’re recording vocals or capturing a guitar The clean signal appears on input 3 in your amp, you’re sure to get a pristine sound. Please note that Sono can only accept two These are stored on the device itself meaning DAW which is also known as the No C.A.B inputs at one time. When a Guitar is plugged you don’t need to be connected to a computer channel. into the guitar input, Mic 1 is switched out of to use these tones. Great for playing on the the signal path. road or on the stage! This would allow you to add processing later in your DAW. Furthermore, should the situation However, it is also possible for the signal from arise, you can also pass the dry signal out to a Mic/Line 1 to be sent to the Guitar channel by real amplifier to be captured by a microphone, simply pressing the ‘To Valve’ button on the also known a re-amping. While the cabinet rear of the unit. simulation on Sono sounds great, sometimes you may just want the real thing! This allows you to add valve warmth, use the tone controls and utilise the Torpedo Sono includes a re-amp output to facilitate this Processing on a microphone or line signal. which is explained in more depth on page 24. This, for example, could be used to add grit to The Gain controls allows to set the amount a vocal or to add distortion to a synth. The Torpedo processing can be turned on or of input gain anywhere between 0 and 60dB off at any time by simply pressing and holding which is more than enough for even the Connecting External Pre-amps the C.A.B button. quietest of microphones. If you wish to use an external guitar preamp Should your microphone require phantom for a different tone than the one provided by power. This can be engaged by pressing the Sono then this can be connected to line input +48V buttons found on the rear of Sono. 1.
Torpedo CAB processing can then be applied to this input by pressing and holding the C.A.B button for three seconds.
20 21 Hardware Features Hardware Features
Monitor and Headphone Controls Speaker Outputs Headphone Output To Amp Output
Sono gives you independent control over the The rear outputs are designed to send Sono includes a powerful, semi-discrete The To Amp output allows you to send audio monitor and headphone outputs. audio out to a set of active monitors or to an class AB headphone amplifier which will from your DAW out to an amplifier or pedal amplifier powering a pair of passive monitors. happily drive any headphone with a nominal board in order to re-amp your signal. impedance within the range of 8-600 Ω. The outputs are balanced so we would The signal from the re-amp output is padded strongly recommend the use of balanced down to an instrument level as to not overload cables (XLR or TRS) when connecting your amp or pedal inputs. monitors to Sono.
As these outputs are line level, they can also be used to feed outboard gear such as hardware compressors or EQ’s, although you would have to sacrifice your monitor outputs to do so. Monitor Mix Control
The Monitor Mix control allows to you to choose whether you listen solely to the inputs (Far Left), the playback from your Computer (Far Right) or a blend of the two.
Please note that the monitor mix control will become inactive when the ‘Software Controlled Mixer Mode’ is selected. For more To send audio to the To Amp output, simply information about the software mixer please send the audio to Output 3 (To Amp) in your see page 29. DAW and connect a jack to the To Amp output.
Optical Input The To Amp output has built in sensing so that when a jack is plugged in, the routing will be The optical input is a standard TOSlink changed automatically. connector and supports both ADAT and S/PDIF inputs. Any routing in the application will be ignored whilst To Amp is being used and the Sono will The optical connection will also carry the revert to being controlled by the hardware signal required to clock Sono from an external Monitor Mix control. source. More information about clocking can be found later in this manual
22 23 Signal Flow Diagrams Signal Flow Diagrams
Sono Input Flow Diagram When the C.A.B button is illuminated, the Sono Output Flow Diagram Torpedo Processing is active. Pressing and The below diagram shows how the input holding the C.A.B button will bypass the There are two ways in which the Sono outputs The To-Amp output on Sono automatically signal is routed through Sono. processing and the switch will become unlit. can be controlled, either using the Monitor Mix senses when a jack is connected and will re- Control on Sono itself, or using the Sono Mixer. route DAC output 3 to the To-Amp output and The Guitar input will automatically sense the headphones output will instead be fed when a jack is connected and when a jack is Both modes of operation can be seen below. from DAC 1+2 instead. present. The Mic 1 input will be switched out More information about the mixer can be and the ‘To Valve’ button overridden. found later in this manual.
Sono Output using Monitor Mix Input Guitar Sensing Input Switching
Input EQ Output
Speakers
Inputs 1+2 DAC Volume 1+2 Digital Inputs
Mic 1 Torpedo Cabinet DAW Playback Neutrik ADC Processing Mic1/ 1+2 +60dB DI
Headphones
Volume
No CAB To-Amp Mic 2 DAW Playback DAC 3 3 Neutrik +60dB ADC Mic 2
Optical Input Digi 1-8
24 25 Sono Output using the Sono Mixer
DSP Mixer Main Mix Cue Mix
Inputs 1, 2 Fader & No Cab & Pan
Fader & Pan Software Features Digital Fader Inputs & Pan
Fader & Pan
DAW Playback Fader 1+2 & Pan
Fader & Pan
DAW Playback Fader 3+4 & Pan
Fader & Pan
Speakers
DAC 1+2 Volume
DAW Routing Headphones THRU Matrix
DAC Volume 3+4
To-Amp Jack To- Amp Sensing
26 Software Features Sono Application
Software Features Getting Started With Sono Mixer Application Use of the Sono software mixer is entirely optional, allowing you to access more Sono is controlled with two pieces of software, When first launched, Sono Application will advanced features such as cue mixes and which this section of the manual will explain in run in the background. On MacOS, this can be setup of the optical input. depth: found in the menu bar in the top right-hand corner of the screen, next to the clock. If you simply want to plug-in and play, with minimal setup, the Monitor Mix control on the Sono gives you a basic way to blend between your input signal and the signal being played Sono Application back from your DAW such as a backing track or click track Pages 27- 37 This will only affect your monitoring mix and The Sono application allows you to control won’t affect the signal being fed into your DAW more advanced functions of Sono such as cue mixes and use of the optical input. On Windows, the System Tray is found in the bottom right hand corner of the screen unless the Start Bar has been moved. The Sono icon may be amongst the hidden icons which can be found by clicking the small triangle in the System Tray.
To start using the Sono Mixer application, Two notes Torpedo Remote simply click Show Mixer. A notification will appear to inform that you that the Hardware Pages 38 - 48 Monitor Mix Control on the Sono will be overridden and will not function whilst the Torpedo Remote from Two notes allows you to application is in use. adjust the cabinet simulation found on Sono with various parameters such as the cabinet, microphones, power amplification and much more.
28 29 Sono Application Sono Application
Analogue Input DAW Return Mix Selection Pane Channels Channels
Channel View Options
Sono Application Menu Set ASIO Buffer Size (Windows Only)
The system tray menu gives you quick access Allows you to set the buffer size used by your to various functions you may need whilst DAW to increase/decrease latency. using Sono directly Set Sample Rate (Windows Only) Show Mixer Allows you to select the operating sample rate If the mixer window has been hidden, this will for Sono. bring it back to the forefront. Software Controlled Mixer Mode Quit This allows you to select between controlling Fully closes the Sono mixer application. the Sono monitor mix either from the hardware knob, or using the Son software About Sono mixer.
Displays information regarding the current When the Software Controlled Mixer Mode version of the iD mixer application. is selected, please note that the Monitor Mix Monitor Controls control on Sono itself will not function. Digital Input Visit Sono Knowledge Base Channels Opens a browser windows for the Audient Helpdesk with helpful articles and FAQ’s.
Check for Updates
The Sono app will check with the Audient update server for any available firmware updates for Sono.
30 31 Sono Application Sono Software Mixer
Sono Mixer Channel Strips DAW 3+4 Channel Strip Features Channel The Sono Mixer app is made up of a number DAW 3+4 is the output 3+4 from your DAW. Channel Name of channel strips which each control the This allows you to have multiple sends from Name monitoring of a particular input or DAW your DAW for more complex monitor mixes. Shows the Name of the channel. To adjust the Return. DAW 3 is also the channel you would use for name of the channel, simply double click and the To Amp output. type in a name of your choice. The channel strips of the Mixer are as follows: Phase Reverse Mic 1/DI This flips the polarity of the signal by 180° This channel contains the signal for either the which is extremely useful if you find two Mic/Line 1 input on the rear of Sono or the signals to be phase cancelling such as micing Guitar input on the front of Sono. If a jack is the front and rear of a guitar cab. connected to the guitar input, The Mic/Line input is switched out. Phase Pan Reverse
Mic 2 Allows you to send the channel to either the Pan left channel of your monitor mix, the right Mic 2 contains the signal present from the channel or anywhere in-between. Mic/Line 2 connector on the rear of Sono. Stereo Link Stereo Link No C.A.B This will link a pair of channels together so This channel is a clone of the Mic 1/DI channel that they act as a single stereo channel. In Solo & Mute but does not pass through any of the Two this state, the pans of these two channels will Notes Torpedo Processing. This is useful be set to hard left and hard right and the two should you also want to capture a clean guitar fader will combine into one. signal for re-amping or processing later Solo & Mute Digi 1-8 Solo will stop all monitoring from other These channels are the inputs from the channels except those that are also solo’d Channel Optical connector which can be used to add Meter upto 8 extra input channels. The number of Mute stops all monitoring from this channel. Digi channels will vary based on whether you are using S/PDIF or ADAT, and your sample Channel Meter rate. Channel Shows the current input level in dBFS Fader DAW 1+2 Channel Fader DAW 1+2 is the output 1+2 from your DAW software, it is also the output that most audio Controls how much signal from this channel is applications will default to for playback sent to Mix between -inf dB and +6dB
32 33 Sono Software Mixer Sono System Panel
Master Section ø - Sums the output to mono and flips the System Panel phase of one channel, this will cancel out and At the far right of the mixer is the master audio found in the centre of the stereo field, The final part of the mixer application is section. This part of the mixer will affect things allowing you to concentrate on the sides and the System Panel. This contains advanced on a more global scale. hear parts which may normally be hidden functions of the Sono application and allows when played in full stereo. you to change some behaviours of the device. Master Mix Mono - Sums the output down to Mono to This can be opened by going to: When selected, this changes the currently allow you to check the mono compatibility of active mix to the Main Mix. This would be your mixes. View > Show System Panel the mix for the engineer to send to the main speakers Speaker & Headphone Mute - Allows you to cut all audio being sent to either the Cue headphone or monitor outputs. A small ‘x’ is shown if the output has been muted. When selected this selects the Cue mix as the currently active mix. The mixer will have green glow to indicate this.
This would typically be used as the Artists mix Channel System Panel Overview: to be listened to via headphones View Optical Cue Solo Format Talkback Setup The cue solo allows you to listen to the cue mix via your normal monitoring path. This can Master be used to quickly check a cue mix before Mix your send it to an artist via headphones. Routing Matrix Channel View Preferred Clock Source Channel View allows you to hide groups of faders to remove channels you may not be using. You can choose to remove the analogue input channels (MIC), the optical Mono Mode inputs (OPT) or the DAW returns (DAW). Cue Monitor Controls. Dim Trim These allow you to control your monitoring to Cue get the best sound possible. Solo
Sono MixerTB - Enable Application and Disabled Talkback, more information regarding Talkback setup can be found at Page 38 Monitor Controls
34 35 Sono System Panel Sono System Panel
Optical Format Routing Matrix Talkback Setup
This allows you to select between using The Routing Matrix allows you to select the Sono gives you the ability to use talkback, ADAT or S/PDIF protocols for the optical audio source for the Monitor and Headphone allowing you to easy communicate to an artist input depending on what device you wish to outputs. Choose from the following options: between takes to help encourage them or give connect. direction. Main Mix - This is the main mix which you Preferred Clock Source create within the mixer. This will be the default You are able to use any of Sono’s inputs, setting for most Sono users including the digital inputs, to connect a Allow you to select where the Sono takes its talkback microphone. Otherwise an external clock source from. By default this will be set to Cue Mix - This is the output the Cue mix microphone such as a computers built-in Internal, however if using a device connected created in the mixer window. This is useful mic or USB microphone connected to the via the optical port, you would instead wish for setting up a second mix for an artist using computer can also be used. to clock Sono from the external device by headphones. selecting DIG 1. This can be selected in the Talkback menu of DAW THRU - This routes the audio directly the System Panel. When you select the external device a status from your computer to the output without any indicator will appear with it’s colour indicating routing or attenuation. For example, sending the current clock status. audio to Outputs 1+2 from your DAW whilst in DAW THRU mode would result in this being Red - No valid clock detected, check sent directly to these outputs connections and that the correct optical format is selected This setting is ideal or working with an external monitor controller or outboard equipment. Amber - A valid clock is detected but an incorrect sample rate. Either adjust the sample Source rate of Sono or the external device. Allows you to choose between one of the built- Green - A valid clock is detected at the correct in inputs or an external microphone source. sample rate. You’re good to go! External Source Audio Settings Mono Mode Allows you to select which external device Allows you to select which monitor outputs is used from a list of currently connected are used when Mono mode is turned on. Both devices. is the default.
Dim Trim
This allows you select by how much the main monitor outputs will dim when Talkback is enabled
36 37 Sono Application Sono Application
Firmware Update Saving and Recalling Mixer Presets Keyboard Shortcut Index
Audient will release firmware updates for If you have a Mixer setup you use a lot then To allow you to find all shortcuts for the Sono in order to add new features, improve you can save this as a preset. mixer application in one place without compatibility and address any bugs. Therefore having to go through each page of this you may wish to periodically check for To do this, go to File > Save. manual please refer to this table: updates.
This can be done by navigating to the Setup Location Mac Windows Description menu and selecting Check for Updates. Faders Alt + Click Alt + Click Resets fader to unity gain (0dB) The Sono mixer application will then check with our update server if any updates for the Pans Alt + Click Alt + Click Resets pan pots to central Sono are currently available. If there are then position you will prompted to install them onto the Sono. Solos Cmd + Click Ctrl + Click Clears all solos if clicking on a solo’d channel
Now simply give your preset a name and Overrides all other solos (for solo click Save. You can also export your setup exclusive) if clicking on an unsolo’d to send to a friend by clicking Export Mixer channel Configuration to File. Meters Alt + Click Alt + Click Clicking on peak hold indicator To recall a Mixer setup, go to File > Open. will clear all clip indicators
Mixer Screen Cmd + S Ctrl + S Save mixer configuration Cmd + O Ctrl + O Load mixer configuration
View Modes Cmd + 1 Ctrl + 1 View Mic/Line Inputs If you then click next, you’ll be prompted to Cmd + 2 Ctrl + 2 View Optical (Digital) Inputs stop any playback through the Sono. Cmd + 3 Ctrl + 3 View DAW Mix Inputs Cmd + 4 Ctrl + 4 View System Panel Click Update and the update will begin. The Sono may turn off a number of times during the process. Once the update has completed, fully reboot the Sono by flicking the power Then select the preset you wish to use. switch off, waiting for a few seconds and then Clicking Load from File allows you to find flicking it back on again. presets saved anywhere on your computer.
38 39 Torpedo Remote Application
Built into Sono is Two notes Torpedo cabinet simulation. Allowing you to dial in realistic, punchy tones from the comfort of your desktop.
The Torpedo Remote application allows you to adjust numerous parameters such as the cabinet, the microphone used, the room it’s been recorded in and much more. Two notes Remote Software Torpedo Remote Application Overview:
Preset Room Selection Selection Cabinet Cabinet Search Selection
Power Amp Setting
Tone Settings
Microphone Distance
Contour Control
Preset Level Microphone Level Meters Output Volume Selection
41 Torpedo Remote Application Torpedo Remote Application
Initial Setup Simply click on the Sono to start using the Cabinets are split into their speaker size and remote software. At this point, you will need to Choose Your Cab the number of speakers used in that cabinet. Upon opening the Torpedo Remote software register your Sono to your account. You can also select between Guitar cabinets for the first time, you’ll see the Log-in Screen. Cabinets come in all shapes and sizes, from and Bass cabinets, Bass Cabs being more small, single speaker boxes to huge monolith optimised for low frequencies. If you already have an existing Two Notes containing upwards of 8 speakers. Account, then simply log in using your current You can also use the search function to help email address and password. The construction style and the speakers used filter out the cabs you wish to find in the cab can drastically alter its sound and Otherwise, press the Sign up button process the way the cab interacts with its environment Sono comes with a variety of cabinets to suit to begin creating your Two notes account so there’s plenty to experiment with. all styles but if you want to push your tone further, more cabinets can be purchased from To select your cab, you can either use the the Two notes Store. Cabinet Selection Menu, or simply click the arrows beside the cab to cycle through the https://store.two-notes.com/en/ selection. Cabinets you don’t own can be selected as a preview but a few seconds of silence will be added to your audio every minute. Click register and then follow the registration process through. Once the device has been registered to your account, you will then receive the 20 cabinets which are included with Sono. These will be downloaded via the Torpedo remote software, this may take a Once you have signed into your account, the few moments depending on your internet Audient Sono will appear in your Device Rack. connection. If the Sono isn’t appearing check your Sono’s power and USB connections. You should now be able to use the remote to start building your perfect tone!
42 43 Torpedo Remote Application Torpedo Remote Application
You can also adjust the distance of the Basement Choose Your Mic microphone from the front of the cabinet. This Choose Your Room allows you to get more of the direct sound A room with stone walls to give plenty of To capture the sound of the Cabinet, you’ll from the cabinet by placing the microphone Once you’ve chosen the cabinet and the reflections with minimal dampening need a microphone! Therefore, Two notes close or more of the reverb from the room by microphone to capture it, you can place your Torpedo gives you a variety of microphones to placing it far away. setup in an acoustic environment to give a Loft capture your virtual cabinet with. realistic sound. This is adjusted using the Distance option in A medium sized room with some dampening Choose a vintage ribbon microphone for a the effects rack. Choose the room your cab is placed by and early reflections. warm loose sound, a dynamic for a punchy pressing the ‘Change Room’ arrows found at tone or a condenser style microphone for a the top of the Screen. Hall A precise capture of your playing. A small live venue with a medium reverb time Cycle through the selection of microphones using the arrows next to the microphone in the Hall B Torpedo Remote software. A larger venue with a long reverb but You can choose from the following options: dampening from curtains and seats
Studio A Crypt
A small live room with some sound absorption A cavernous space with hard stone walls for for a short, dull reverb. long reverb times with lots of early reflection
Studio B Cathedral
A larger live room with more reflective walls A large space with a long reverb with a longer and a longer reverb time. pre-delay on the initial reflections
44 45 Torpedo Remote Application Torpedo Remote Application
Saving Presets You are also able to store presets to your Choose Your Tone computer if you need to store more than Once you have got your perfect tone dialled the three presets. To do this, simply click the Finally, you can make adjustments to your in, you can save it to one of the C.A.B preset ‘Computer’ tab, type in your preset name and overall tone using the Effects Rack. slots on Sono itself. hit save.
Power Amp The C.A.B presets are stored on the Sono’s You can also view and manage your presets on-board memory so even if you’re not using the preset manager window of the First you have the power amplifier saturation connected to a computer, you can still use Torpedo Remote application. setting which allows you to control the your three favourite Cab setups. saturation of the simulated power amplifier. In this window, presets can be dragged from To store a reset, setup the Torpedo app the your computer onto one the three preset slots This is controlled using the Drive knob on the way you like it and then hit SAVE in the top of Sono. Sono itself and whilst Sono is in use, the Power right hand corner of your Rack. Amp Knob will be locked. Similarly, presets can be removed from Sono by dragging and dropping them into the Bin.
Tone
After this you have the Tone setting which allows you to select between a bright tone, with sparkling treble, a dark tone with rumbling low-end or anywhere in-between. You can then select one of three slots to save this to. Please be aware that once a preset has been overwritten, it cannot be recalled. Contour
The Contour control allows you to select between a ‘Vintage’ tone with more emphasis on mids, a ‘Modern’ Tone with scooped mids and extra bass and treble, or again, somewhere in-between.
Preset & Output Level
After this, you can set your preset and output levels. The preset level allows you to balance the current settings with your other presets as some cab setups will be slightly louder than others. The Output level allows you to dial things back a little if you feel your playback is a little on the hot side and you find yourself clipping in the DAW.
46 47 Torpedo Remote Application
Cabinet Manager
The cabinet manager screen can be accessed Please note that in order for a cabinet to be from the top of the Torpedo Remote and used within one of Sono’s three preset slots, allows you to view your list of available this cabinet must be stored on Sono itself cabinets and store up to three onto the Sono using the cabinet manager. Otherwise a itself. generic cabinet will be used in place of the cabinet selected. To save a cabinet to Sono, simply drag and drop the cabinet onto one of the three slots available on the left hand of the screen. Please note that if all three slots are full, you will need to remove one cab first to free up a slot. DAW Setup Guides
48 Pro Tools Setup Logic Pro Setup
Operation with Pro Tools I/O Setup Operation with Logic Pro If you are using Sono’s zero latency monitoring while recording, be sure to disable Logic’s Once Sono has been successfully installed Go to Setup > I/O to label your inputs and Once Sono has been successfully installed software monitoring to avoid phasing as the following the steps detailed in this manual, outputs and ensure that Sono is correctly following the steps detailed earlier in this same source will be heard twice with a short launch Pro Tools and ensure that a new reporting 11 inputs and 4 outputs to and from manual, launch Logic Pro and check the delay between the low latency DSP signal and session is created at the desired sample rate Pro Tools. following: the delayed software monitoring signal. (if clocking internally) or at the rate of the clock source (if clocking externally). Note that analogue outputs 1-4 are the DAW Logic Pro > Preferences > Audio Assigning I/O playback channels in the Sono mixer and If using Windows, make sure that you have set can either be routed through the Sono mixer All of Sono’s input and output channels will be the correct latency and buffer size settings or hard-wired directly from Pro Tools to the available to Logic for routing. There are a total in the Sono app before opening a project. physical outputs. of 12 inputs and 4 outputs reported from the Changing these settings will result in Pro Tools driver. needing to restart. The No CAB input which bypasses the Torpedo Processing comes in via channel 11. This can the be used to record a duplicate clean signal for re-amping later on.
Ensure that Sono is selected as the active audio device and set the buffer size (to affect system latency). If you are experiencing issues with playback stability and CPU loading, try increasing the buffer size. This appears with “overload” errors and/or pops and clicks and distortion in the audio. For more Pro Tools information consult your Playback Engine Avid user manuals & documentation.
Go to Setup > Playback Engine and ensure The No CAB input which bypasses the that Sono is set as the active playback device. Torpedo Processing comes in via channel You can rename input and output channels to 11. This can the be used to record a duplicate whatever you wish using the I/O label function clean signal for re-amping later on. This is a great way to keep things organised.
It is recommended that Input monitoring in Mix > I/O Labels the DAW is turned off as monitoring of the inputs can be done using Sono itself with almost zero latency.
50 51 Logic Pro Setup Cubase Setup
Operation with Logic Pro Operation with Cubase / Nuendo
If you are using an external clock source Once Sono has been successfully installed (ADAT or S/PDIF) to clock Sono, please ensure following the steps detailed earlier in this that your Logic Pro project is set to the same manual, launch Cubase and head straight for sample rate when recording and playing back the Studio menu: in a session, otherwise things may sound a bit sharp or flat! Studio > Studio Setup
File > Project Settings > Audio Select Audient Sono in the menu to ensure that Cubase / Nuendo addresses the Sono device driver. You will be asked if this is OK, select ‘switch’.
Select Audient Sono in the devices menu. Here you will see the main Sono information, where Select VST Audio System in the devices menu. clock sources can be set as well as activating I/O ports.
If you are using the internal clock in Sono, For more Logic Pro information please Be sure to click Externally Clocked if setting the sample rate via Logic Pro will update consult your Apple user manuals & clocking from another digital device via ADAT the Sono sample rate to follow your session. documentation. or S/PDIF.
There may be a slight pause as the system re- clocks. This is normal.
This can be verified in Audio MIDI Setup.
Macintosh HD > Applications > Utilities
52 53 Cubase Setup Support & ARC
Buffer sizes can be set in the control panel Here you can ensure that all buses have been Audient Help Desk within the VST devices display. It is ideal to created in Cubase / Nuendo and therefore all keep them quite high to reduce CPU loading if ports are addressable in your session. Add new Further information regarding Sono, including you use the Sono app as the input monitoring buses and assign them to the necessary I/O if FAQs and troubleshooting can be found on device while recording. required. our online help centre.
audient.com/support
Our Help centre is regularly updated with information to give tips and tricks on how to use Sono, as well as guides on how to avoid or resolve common issues.
If further assistance is required then you can also submit a support ticket through our help I/O ports can be renamed in the device Bus types can be set (mono / stereo) and the centre and one of our support team will be panel such that they better represent what you VST control room section can also be used. happy to assist you. connect to them (for example Main Monitors, For more information regarding set-up please Headphones). This is useful as any names consult your Steinberg user manuals and chosen here will be those displayed when documentation. assigning I/O on track input/output channel routing. Setup in Other DAWs
Close the device setup panel and There are too many DAW’s for us to list setup navigate to the Studio connections panel: process for here so if you are unsure how to setup Sono in your DAW, we would reccomend Studio >Studio Connections (F4) reading the manual for your DAW which should explain the setup process for an audio interface. Audient ARC - Free Software If you do require further assistance however, please check our online help centre or contact At Audient ARC, you will find a comprehensive our support team: range of software & offers from some of the industry’s leading innovators. All you audient.com/support have to do is register your product and take advantage of these great offers for free!
Make your account and register your Sono at:
arc.audient.com
54 55 Technical Specifications Warranty
MICROPHONE PREAMPLIFIER: TO-AMP OUTPUT: Warranty
MAXIMUM OUTPUT LEVEL: -12dBu MIC GAIN: 0 to +60 dB DIGITAL REFERENCE LEVEL: 0dBFS = -12dBu The Audient warranty period for any product purchased is 12 months from the date of the original LINE GAIN: -10 to +50 dB OUTPUT IMPEDANCE: <50Ω Balanced PHANTOM POWER: 48v +/-4v @ 10mA/Channel FREQUENCY RESPONSE: +/-0.5dB 10Hz to Fs/2 purchase. MIC EIN: -128dBu THD+N @ -1dBFS (1kHz): <0.002% CMRR: >80dB @ 1kHz DYNAMIC RANGE: 95dB A-weighted MAXIMUM INPUT LEVEL: +16dBu 1/4” JACK: TIP (Hot) and SLEEVE (Shield) • The warranty is not transferable to a second user. INPUT IMPEDANCE (Mic): >3kΩ Balanced INPUT IMPEDANCE (Line): >10kΩ Balanced FREQUENCY RESPONSE: +/-0.5dB 10Hz to 22kHz DIGITAL (TOSLINK) INPUT: • Audient products are built using the latest manufacturing technology, tested to the highest CROSSTALK: <-90dB @ 1kHz & 10kHz possible standards and by using premium components this should result in providing you with THD+N @ 0dBu (1kHz): 0.003% (-96dBu) ADAT 8 CHANNELS 44.1 - 48kHz SNR: 96dB A-Weighted ADAT 4 CHANNELS (SMUX) 88.2 - 96kHZ reliable performance for many years. XLR: Pin 2 (Hot), Pin 3 (Cold) & Pin 1 (Shield) STEREO S/PDIF 44.1 - 96kHz 1/4” JACK: TIP (Hot), RING (Cold) & SLEEVE (Shield) • The warranty is return to base, meaning the unit must be returned, carriage paid, to the Dealer you purchased the unit from or the exclusive territory Distributor responsible for the country in which D.I: USB 2.0 HIGH SPEED you purchased the product D.I MAX GAIN: 20 dB No. of INPUT CHANNELS 10 (2 Analogue, 8 Digital) MAXIMUM INPUT LEVEL (at unity gain): +4dBu No. of OUTPUT CHANNELS 4 (4 Analogue) INPUT IMPEDANCE: 1MegΩ Unbalanced Connector: USB Type-C • Some of the products returned under warranty are found not to exhibit any fault at all when they FREQUENCY RESPONSE: ±3dB - 10Hz to 22kHz Included Cables: 1.5m USB 2.0 Type-C to USB Type-C are retested at our Service Centre’s so it’s always useful to contact our Support team first to try to THD+N @ 0dBu (1kHz): 1.50% 1.5m USB 2.0 Type-C to USB Type-A SNR: 90dB avoid inconvenience to you at [email protected] 1/4” JACK: TIP (Hot) & SLEEVE (Shield) Sono DSP Mixer Round-trip (in to out) Latency: • If you suspect that your unit is suffering from a component or manufacturing defect during the ADC INPUTS: Without Torpedo Processing warranty period please contact either Audient support or the dealer that you purchased the
MAXIMUM INPUT LEVEL: 16dBu 44.1 kHz 0.677ms Audient product from DIGITAL REFERENCE LEVEL: 0dBFS = +16dBu 48.0 kHz 0.625ms FREQUENCY RESPONSE: +/-0.5dB 10Hz to Fs/2 88.2 kHz 0.354ms CROSSTALK: <-115dB @ 1kHz & 10kHz 96.0 kHz 0.3236ms • In the event of a component or manufacturing defect becoming evident during the warranty THD+N @ -1dBFS (1kHz): <0.0015% period, Audient will ensure that the product is repaired free of charge or replaced DYNAMIC RANGE: 115dB A-weighted With Torpedo Processing
SPEAKER OUTPUTS: 44.1 kHz 4.63ms • Whilst this warranty is provided by Audient, the warranty obligations are fulfilled by the exclusive 48.0 kHz 4.18ms MAXIMUM OUTPUT LEVEL: +16dBu 88.2 kHz 3.26ms territory Distributor responsible for the country in which you purchased the product. DIGITAL REFERENCE LEVEL: 0dBFS = +16dBu 96.0 kHz 2.99ms OUTPUT IMPEDANCE: <100Ω Balanced FREQUENCY RESPONSE: +/-0.5dB 10Hz to Fs/2 • The Dealer will advise you of the appropriate procedure for resolving the warranty issue. CROSSTALK: <-120dB @ 1kHz & 10kHz POWER SUPPLY: THD+N @ -1dBFS (1kHz): <0.0015% DYNAMIC RANGE: 114dB A-weighted 12VDC Centre Positive DC Adapter - 2Amps • In every case it will be necessary to provide a copy of the original invoice or Dealer purchase 1/4” JACK: TIP (Hot), RING (Cold) & SLEEVE (Shield) Internally conditioned to provide +48VDC, +/-12VDC & low voltage receipt to the Distributor. rails for digital processing core & converters.
HEADPHONE OUTPUT: Sono cannot be bus powered for quality reasons. • In the event that you are unable to provide proof of purchase directly then you should contact
MAXIMUM OUTPUT LEVEL: +16dBu the Dealer from whom you purchased the product and attempt to obtain proof of purchase from DIGITAL REFERENCE LEVEL: 0dBFS = +16dBu WEIGHTS & DIMS: them. The Dealer | Distributor will then advise the procedure to follow. OUTPUT IMPEDANCE: <50Ω Balanced FREQUENCY RESPONSE: +/-0.5dB 10Hz to Fs/2 Weights: Unit: 1.25kg CROSSTALK: -90dB @ 1kHz & 10kHz Packaged: 2.0kg • This limited warranty is offered solely to products purchased from an Authorised Audient Dealer THD+N @ -1dBFS (1kHz): <0.002% DYNAMIC RANGE: 114dB A-weighted Unit Dimensions: 229mm (w) x 67mm (h) x 165mm (d) (defined as a Dealer which has purchased the product directly from Audient in the UK, or one of MAX LEVEL INTO 30ohms: +10dBu, 0.0015% THD+N, 3.7Vpk Power: Packaged Dimensions: 315mm (w) x 112mm (h) x 226mm (d) our Authorised Distributors outside the UK). 456mW or Pavg 228mW MAX LEVEL INTO 60ohms: +13.5dBu, 0.0015% THD+N, 5.17Vpk Power: 445mW or Pavg 222mW MAX LEVEL INTO 600ohms: +15.8dBu, 0.0015% THD+N, 6.77Vpk Power: 76mW or Pavg 38mW 1/4” JACK: TIP (Hot), RING (Cold) & SLEEVE (Shield)
56 57 Warranty Service
Please note that if you purchased the product from outside of your country of residence you must return Service Information the unit to the original point of purchase for repair. Sono contains no user-serviceable components, please refer to qualified service personnel for The Audient warranty term is additional to any statutory rights in the country of purchase or as offered by diagnosis and repair. Your warranty will be void if you tamper with the device at component level. If you the dealer at the time of purchase. have any questions with regard to the repair, please contact Audient Ltd.
What is meant by a Manufacturing Defect ? If your unit is in warranty, please contact your dealer directly for a repair or replacement (at the discretion of the dealer). We define this as a defect in the performance or specification of the product as described and published by Audient. For out of warranty repairs, please contact Audient Ltd, after which a Return Materials Authorization (RMA) number will be assigned. This number will serve as a reference for you and helps facilitate and A Manufacturing Defect does not include damage caused by post-purchase shipping, storage or expedite the return process. When the unit is returned please include this RMA number along with a careless handling, nor damage caused by misuse. description of the fault inside the packaging box. To request an RMA, access technical support & FAQs, ask for troubleshooting assistance or make an enquiry, please visit: www.audient.com/support
Tel: 0044 1256 381944 audient.com
58 59 Glossary
Below are a list of common words you may encounter in this manual or whilst using Sono.
A Amperes ADAT Alesis Digital Audio Tape ADC Analogue to Digital Converter DAW Digital Audio Workstation 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 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!
60 61