About the Mark of the Unicorn License Agreement Limited Warranty on Hardware and Limited Warranty on Software Mark of the Unicorn, Inc. and S&S Research (“MOTU/S&S”) warrant this TO PERSONS WHO PURCHASE OR USE THIS PRODUCT: carefully equipment against defects in materials and workmanship for a period of read all the terms and conditions of the “click-wrap” license agreement TWO (2) YEARS from the date of original retail purchase. This warranty presented to you when you install the software. Using the software or this applies only to hardware products; MOTU software is licensed and documentation indicates your acceptance of the terms and conditions of that warranted pursuant to separate written statements. license agreement. If you discover a defect, first write or call Mark of the Unicorn at (617) 576- Mark of the Unicorn, Inc. (“MOTU”) owns both this program and its 2760 to obtain a Return Merchandise Authorization Number. No service will documentation. Both the program and the documentation are protected be performed on any product returned without prior authorization. MOTU under applicable copyright, trademark, and trade-secret laws. Your right to will, at its option, repair or replace the product at no charge to you, provided use the program and the documentation are limited to the terms and you return it during the warranty period, with transportation charges prepaid, conditions described in the license agreement. to Mark of the Unicorn, Inc., 1280 Massachusetts Avenue, MA 02138. You must use the product’s original packing material for in shipment, and insure Reminder of the terms of your license the shipment for the value of the product. 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THIS LIMITED WARRANTY AND RIGHT OF REPLACEMENT IS IN LIEU OF, AND YOU HEREBY WAIVE, ANY AND ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, MOTU, AudioDesk, Mark of the Unicorn and the unicorn silhouette logo are BOTH EXPRESS AND IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO trademarks of Mark of the Unicorn, Inc. WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. THE LIABILITY OF MOTU PURSUANT TO THIS LIMITED WARRANTY SHALL BE LIMITED TO THE This equipment has been type tested and found to comply with the limits for a class REPLACEMENT OF THE DEFECTIVE DISK(S), AND IN NO EVENT B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to SHALL MOTU OR ITS SUPPLIERS, LICENSORS, OR AFFILIATES BE provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency LIABLE FOR INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO LOSS OF USE, LOSS OF PROFITS, cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no LOSS OF DATA OR DATA BEING RENDERED INACCURATE, OR guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment LOSSES SUSTAINED BY THIRD PARTIES EVEN IF MOTU HAS BEEN does cause interference to radio or television equipment reception, which can be ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. THIS determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to WARRANTY GIVES YOU SPECIFIC LEGAL RIGHTS WHICH MAY VARY correct the interference by any combination of the following measures: FROM STATE TO STATE. SOME STATES DO NOT ALLOW THE • Relocate or reorient the receiving antenna LIMITATION OR EXCLUSION OF LIABILITY FOR CONSEQUENTIAL • Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver DAMAGES, SO THE ABOVE LIMITATION MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU. • Plug the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the Update Policy receiver is connected In order to be eligible to obtain updates of the program, you must register the If necessary, you can consult a dealer or experienced radio/television technician for software at motu.com. additional assistance. PLEASE NOTE: only equipment certified to comply with Class B (computer input/ Copyright Notice output devices, terminals, printers, etc.) should be attached to this Copyright © 2015, 2014, 2013, 2012 by Mark of the Unicorn, Inc. All rights equipment, and it must have shielded interface cables in order reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, transmitted, to comply with the Class B FCC limits on RF emissions. transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or translated into any human or WARNING: changes or modifications to this unit not computer language, in any form or by any means whatsoever, without expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance express written permission of Mark of the Unicorn, Inc., 1280 could void the user's authority to operate the equipment. Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA, 02138, U.S.A.

MicroBook IIc User Guide

1280 Massachusetts Avenue Cambridge, MA 02138 Business voice: (617) 576-2760 Business fax: (617) 576-3609 Web site: www.motu.com Tech support: www.motu.com/support SAFETY PRECAUTIONS AND ELECTRICAL REQUIREMENTS WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRICAL SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR OTHER MOISTURE. CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRICAL SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE COVER. NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL. WARNING: DO NOT PERMIT FINGERS TO TOUCH THE TERMINALS OF POWER PLUGS WHEN INSTALLING OR REMOVING THE PLUG TO OR FROM A POWER SOURCE. IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS 1. Read instructions — All the safety and operating instructions should be read before operating the MicroBook. 2. Retain instructions — The safety instructions and owner's manual should be retained for future reference. 3. Heed Warnings — All warnings on the MOTU MicroBook and in the owner's manual should be adhered to. 4. Follow Instructions — All operating and use instructions should be followed. 5. Cleaning — Unplug the MOTU MicroBook from the computer before cleaning and use a damp cloth. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners. 6. Power Sources — This MOTU MicroBook should be operated only from the type of power source indicated on the marking label. 7. Power-Cord Protection — Power-supply cords should be routed so that they are not likely to be walked on or pinched by items placed upon or against them. Pay particular attention to cords and plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the MOTU MicroBook. 8. Lightning — For added protection for the MOTU MicroBook during a lightning storm, unplug its power supply from any wall outlets. This will prevent damage to the MOTU MicroBook due to lightning and power line surges. 9. Servicing — Do not attempt to service this MOTU MicroBook yourself as opening or removing covers will expose you to dangerous voltage and other hazards. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. 10. Damage Requiring Service — Unplug the MOTU MicroBook from the computer and refer servicing to qualified service personnel under the following conditions. a. When the power supply cord or plug is damaged. b. If liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the MOTU MicroBook. c. If the MOTU MicroBook has been exposed to rain or water. d. If the MOTU MicroBook does not operate normally by following the operating instructions in the owner's manual. e. If the MOTU MicroBook has been dropped or the cabinet has been damaged. f. When the MOTU MicroBook exhibits a distinct change in performance, this indicates a need for service. 11. Replacement Parts — When replacement parts are required, be sure the service technician has used replacement parts specified by the manufacturer or have the same characteristics as the original part. Unauthorized substitutions may result in fire, electric shock or other hazards. 12. Safety Check — Upon completion of any service or repairs to this MOTU MicroBook, ask the service technician to perform safety checks to determine that the product is in safe operating conditions. ENVIRONMENT Operating Temperature: 10°C to 40°C (50°F to 104°) AVOID THE HAZARDS OF ELECTRICAL SHOCK AND FIRE Do not handle the power supply, or power cables with wet hands. CAUTION: DANGER OF EXPLOSION IF BATTERY IS REPLACED. REPLACE ONLY WITH THE SAME OR EQUIVALENT TYPE RECOMMENDED BYMANUFACTURER. DISPOSE OF USED BATTERY ACCORDING TO MANUFACTURER’S INSTRUCTIONS. Contents

4 Quick Reference: MicroBook Front Panel 5 Quick Reference: MicroBook Rear Panel 6 Quick Reference: MicroBook Top Panel 7 Quick Reference: CueMix FX

9 About the MicroBook 13 Packing List and System Requirements 15 Installing the MicroBook Software 17 Installing the MicroBook Hardware 25 Mac OS X Audio Software 33 Windows Audio Software 37 CueMix FX 47 Troubleshooting 49 Index

3 0 Quick Reference: MicroBook Front Panel

1 2 3

4 5 1. Plug in your dynamic or condenser 2. Plug in your guitar here using a 3. This is a standard quarter-inch mic here. standard quarter-inch guitar headphone jack. To control cable. This input is designed with volume, push the VOL rotary Use the MIC digital rotary encoder the high-impedance characteris- encoder (5) repeatedly until the on the top panel (4) to engage the tics necessary to properly handle phones LED is lit. You can control -20 dB pad (push) and/or 48V both passive and active guitar phone volume independently or phantom power (push and hold) pickups. To make your guitar together with main out volume. for a condenser mic, if necessary. sound and “feel” even more like it is plugged directly into a actual guitar amplifier, consider using Make sure 48V power is MOTU’s ZBox guitar impedance turned OFF BEFORE plugging adapter (sold separately), which To obtain your product anything in to the mic input. Only simply goes between your guitar serial number, see engage 48V power when a device cable and this input (no extra “Obtaining your that requires it is plugged in. cable needed). MicroBook serial number” on page 14. 0 Quick Reference: MicroBook Rear Panel

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

1. Connect to a host computer with a can plug in an iPod or CD player level for recording. If you use these standard USB cable (Type A to Type here, instead of using the quarter- quarter inch jacks, DO NOT plug a To minimize noise that may be B). When connected to laptop or inch jacks to the right. DO NOT cable in to the stereo mini jack. produced by connected devices: desktop computer, the MicroBook plug a cable into this mini jack at IIc is powered by this USB 2.0 the same time as the quarter-inch 6. This eighth-inch “stereo mini” jack • Use balanced TRS quarter-inch connection. jacks. To avoid ground loop serves as a stereo line level analog cables whenever possible. noise, don’t connect a device with output that is completely 2. This USB 2.0 Micro-B jack is for another power source (such as an independent from the Main Out • Use the MicroBook’s balanced power only. DO NOT use this port iPod connected to a computer). (to the right). quarter-inch connectors instead to connect to a host computer. Use of the eighth-inch stereo “mini” it for power when connecting the 5. These two analog inputs are 7. These two balanced, quarter-inch connectors whenever possible. MicroBook IIc to an iPad. For balanced TRS (tip/ring/sleeve) jacks serve as the MicroBook’s details, see “Connecting to an iOS quarter-inch connectors that can main outputs. You can connect • Don’t make unbalanced audio device” on page 18. also accept an unbalanced plug. them to a set of powered studio connections between the Micro- These inputs (3-4) do not have mic monitors. To control volume, push Book and a FireWire or USB 3. This stereo, 24-bit S/PDIF digital pre-amps, so they are best used the VOL knob on the top repeat- device while the other device is output mirrors the Main Out. for synthesizers, drum machines, edly until the speaker LED is lit. You connected to any computer. effects processors, and other can hear the output of your audio 4. This eighth-inch “stereo mini” jack devices with line level signals software on these Main Outs, and serves as an alternative input for (either -10 or +4). The CueMix FX also use CueMix FX to monitor live Line Inputs 3-4. For example, you software lets you adjust the input MicroBook inputs. 0 Quick Reference: MicroBook Top Panel

1 2 3 4 5 6

1. The MIC digital rotary encoder 5. Three-LED metering for the LINE controls the trim for the mic OUTs. input. The preamp provides 53 dB of gain. Push to toggle the 6. The VOL digital rotary encoder -20 dB pad; push and hold to controls the volume of the main toggle the 48V phantom power. outs and phones. Push it repeat- edly to cycle among three states: Make sure 48V power is turned OFF BEFORE plugging a) Main outs (speaker icon) anything in to the mic input. Only engage 48V power when a b) Phones (headphone icon) device that requires it is plugged in. c) Both 2. Three-LED metering for the LINE Push and hold the VOL encoder IN jacks. to enable Guitar Trim Mode. In this mode, you can use the VOL 3. Stereo three-LED metering for knob to adjust the guitar input the MAIN OUTs. level; the MIC knob continues to adjust the mic input level, as 4. Four-LED metering for the MIC usual. The MIC and GTR signal input and GUITAR input. In activity meters (4) become level “Guitar Trim Mode” (see below), indicators. If the level is turned these meters indicate the input all the way down, the the level setting (not signal activity). bottom LED flashes. CHAPTERQuick Reference: CueMix FX

Launch CueMix FX (in your Mac Applications folder or in the Windows Start menu under Programs>MOTU>CueMix FX) to control the MicroBook. This chapter gives you a quick overview. For further details, see chapter 7, “CueMix FX” (page 37). 1 2 3 4 5

7 6 1. Input settings include trim 3. Output settings include 5. Control the volume of the level, mono/stereo toggle, EQ choosing what you will hear MicroBook’s outputs here. and dynamics. For more input on each output (a mix bus, settings (pad, phantom power, host computer audio, or a 6. Signal Generator tab provides etc.) click the Focus button and signal generator), EQ, and settings for white/pink noise go to the Channel tab. dynamics. See the next page, and a sine wave generator. or “The Outputs tab” on 2. The MicroBook provides four page 42 for more info. 7. Meters for all ins/outs/busses. stereo mix busses. Use the Mix tab to mix sources (inputs, 4. Click a focus button (in the host computer audio, etc.) for Inputs, Outputs, or Mixes tabs) each mix bus. See “The Mixes to view individual channel tab” on page 41. settings here in the Channel, EQ and Dynamics tabs.

7 1 5 4

2

3

1. Click the Outputs tab to access White, or Pink produces a sine 3. If you want to apply EQ or settings for the MicroBook’s wave or white/pink noise from dynamics processing to the outputs. For example, you can the MicroBook’s signal genera- output, click here to enable it choose one of four different tor (item 8 on the previous and then adjust settings in the mixes for each output. page). channel section (4). 2. Choose the audio source for 4. Adjust output settings in the each output pair from these EQ and dynamics tabs here. In menus. The MicroBook gives the EQ tab, click the power you a lot of flexibility, as icon to enable an EQ band and shown in the menu to the then either adjust its knobs or right. You can choose one of drag its settings directly in the the four mixes, which let you graph above. mix inputs with computer audio. Or you can choose an 5. Use this menu to access the input or computer audio spectrogram waterfall, real directly (the Aux option). A time FFT display, and other mix can go to as many outputs diagnostic tools. See “Audio as you want. Choosing Sine, analysis tools” on page 45.

8 CHAPTER 1 About the MicroBook

Overview Obtaining your MicroBook The MicroBook IIc is an audio class- serial number compliant USB audio interface for Mac, The MicroBook holds its serial Windows and iOS devices, with on- number electronically in the unit board effects and mixing that offers six

itself. To obtain the serial number, inputs and eight outputs for recording follow the hardware and software and playback at industry standard installation instructions in this sample rates from 44.1 to 96 kHz. All booklet, and then do the following: inputs and outputs can be accessed simultaneously. The MicroBook consists 1 Launch the CueMix FX software. of a light and small aluminum alloy- 2 Choose Devices menu> encased interface that connects directly MicroBook> Setup. to a computer via a standard USB cable. Alternately, it can connect to an iOS device with a standard USB camera connection kit.

MicroBook feature highlights include:

■ 4-input, 6-output bus-powered “plug-and-play” high-speed USB 2.0 audio interface for Mac and Windows.

■ Supports Apple® iPad® and other iOS® Figure 1-1: The Setup window. devices with camera connection kit (sold separately). 3 The serial number is shown at the bottom of the Setup window, as ■ 6 x 8 physical inputs/outputs. shown in Figure 1-1. ■ 8-bus digital mixer to route and mix live inputs with live computer tracks.

■ Preamp-equipped mic input with Precision Digital Trim™, 48V phantom power, and -20 dB pad.

■ Hi-Z guitar input with Precision Digital Trim.

ABOUT THE MICROBOOK 9 ■ Stereo line level analog input on ■ Advanced audio analysis software balanced quarter-inch (TRS) or stereo tools, including FFT “waterfall” display, mini connectors. oscilloscope, X-Y plot, and phase torch.

■ Stereo line level analog main outs on ■ USB audio class compliant operation balanced quarter-inch (TRS) connectors. for plug-and-play operation with all current and recent generation Macs and ■ Stereo eighth-inch “mini” line-level iOS devices (with a USB camera input and output. connection kit). ■ S/PDIF digital out on RCA (duplicates ■ Across-the-board compatibility with Main Out). any audio software. ■ Headphone output on a quarter-inch ■ AudioDesk™ full-featured audio stereo jack with independent volume workstation software for Mac OS X and control. Windows (7, 8 and 10). ■ Operation on all analog and digital I/O ■ Standard USB cable included. at standard sample rates from 44.1 to 96 kHz. ■ Micro-B USB cable with power adapter included for iOS operation. ■ Digitally controlled analog trim for the mic and guitar inputs. With a variety of I/O formats, dedicated mic and guitar inputs, and no-latency ■ Digital trim for all outputs. mixing and processing of live input, the ■ Output volume digital rotary encoder. MicroBook is a complete, portable Push to cycle among three modes: main “studio in a box” when used with a Mac, out, phones, or both. PC or iOS device.

■ Mic input digital rotary encoder for Precision Digital Trim™ adjusting trim level, 48V and pad. The MicroBook’s mic and guitar inputs ■ Dedicated 3- or 4-segment LED meters are equipped with digitally controlled for all inputs and outputs. analog trims with up to 51 dB and 32 dB of boost, respectively, using the included ■ CueMix™ FX no-latency mixing and CueMix FX software for Mac OS X and monitoring with EQ and dynamics Windows. This allows you to fine-tune processing. trim settings for optimum levels. ■ 7-band parametric EQ and Different trim configurations can then be compression. saved as files on disk for instant recall.

■ Test tone and white/pink noise generator.

■ Instrument tuner.

10 ABOUT THE MICROBOOK 16-bit and 24-bit recording recorded wet, dry, or dry with a wet The MicroBook system handles all data monitor mix (for musicians during with a 24-bit signal path, regardless of the recording, for example). I/O format. You can record and play back 16-bit or 24-bit audio files at any Effects include parametric EQ and supported sample rate via any of the compression/limiting. Standard MicroBook’s inputs and outputs. compression provides conventional threshold, ratio, attack, release, trim, and CueMix FX mixing and effects knee controls. The 7-band parametric All MicroBook inputs and outputs can be EQ is modeled after British analog routed to the on-board CueMix FX 8-bus console EQs, featuring four filter styles (four stereo) digital mixer driven by (gain/Q profiles) to effectively cover a hardware-based DSP. The mixer allows wide range of audio material. Low-pass you to apply no-latency EQ and and high-pass filters are also supplied dynamics processing to inputs, outputs with slopes that range from 6 to 36 dB. or busses directly in the MicroBook hardware, independent of the computer. The MicroBook’s flexible effects Input signals to the computer can be architecture allows you to apply EQ and compression on every input and output.

ABOUT THE MICROBOOK 11 12 ABOUT THE MICROBOOK CHAPTER 2 Packing List and System Requirements

PACKING LIST ■ A large hard drive, preferably at least The MicroBook ships with the items 100 GB listed below. If any of these items are not present in your MicroBook box when you WINDOWS SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS first open it, please immediately contact The MicroBook system requires the your dealer or MOTU. following Windows system:

■ One MicroBook IIc audio interface ■ Pentium 4 CPU (or equivalent) 1 GHz or faster ■ One USB cable for connection to a host computer (Type A to Type B) ■ 4 GB of RAM or more ■ One USB cable for power (Type A to ■ Windows 7, 8 or 10 Micro B) ■ A large hard drive, preferably at least ■ One USB power adapter (USB Type A 100 GB jack to two-prong North American PLEASE REGISTER TODAY! power) Please register your MicroBook today. ■ (International only) one international There are two ways to register. power adapter ■ Visit www.motu.com/register to ■ One MicroBook Mac/Windows User register online Guide OR ■ One cross-platform Universal Audio Installer disc ■ Fill out and mail the included product registration card ■ MicroBook product registration card As a registered user, you will be eligible to ■ One sheet of four peel-off rubber feet receive technical support and MAC SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS announcements about product The MicroBook system requires the enhancements as soon as they become following Mac system: available. Only registered users receive these special update notices, so please ■ Any Mac with an Intel processor register today. ■ 4 GB of RAM or more ■ Mac OS X version 10.6.8 or later

PACKING LIST AND SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS 13 You need your MicroBook serial OBTAINING YOUR MICROBOOK number to register SERIAL NUMBER To register your MicroBook, you need The MicroBook holds its serial number your unit’s serial number. See “Obtaining electronically in the unit itself. To obtain your MicroBook serial number” below. the serial number, follow the hardware and software installation instructions in Be sure to register AudioDesk Be sure to register the included the next two chapters, and then do the AudioDesk software, which must be following: registered separately. You can do so 1 Launch CueMix FX. online at motu.com/register. Doing so will allow you to be eligible to receive 2 Choose Devices menu> MicroBook> technical support and announcements Setup. about software enhancements as soon as they become available.

Thank you for taking the time to register your new MOTU products!

Figure 2-1: The Setup window.

3 The serial number is shown at the bottom of the Setup window, as shown in Figure 2-1.

14 PACKING LIST AND SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS CHAPTER 3 Installing the MicroBook Software

NO SOFTWARE INSTALLATION FOR Class compliant operation under OS X iOS DEVICES The MicroBook IIc is a USB audio class The MicroBook IIc is a USB audio class compliant device, so OS X will recognize compliant device, so it can be used as a it as a simple 4-input, 6-output audio simple 4-input, 6-output audio interface interface, even without the MicroBook (with no mixing or processing features) drivers installed. When operating in this for iPad and other iOS devices. No mode, the MicroBook can be used as a software installation is required. Just simple audio interface (with no mixing or connect the MicroBook to your iOS processing) with any Mac audio software. device as explained in “Connecting to an However, it is still recommended that you iOS device” on page 18, and access it in run the software installer, so that you can your iOS audio software as instructed for take full advantage of all the professional your audio software. features offered by the MicroBook.

MAC SOFTWARE INSTALLATION WINDOWS SOFTWARE To install the MicroBook software: INSTALLATION Before you connect the MicroBook audio 1 Insert the MOTU Universal Installer interface to your PC and turn it on, it is disc or download the installer from best to install the software drivers first. motu.com/download. This ensures that all the MicroBook 2 Launch the installer. components are properly installed in your system. 3 Follow the directions that the installer ☛ gives you. PC installation goes more smoothly if you install the software before What does the installer do? connecting the MicroBook hardware. The installer checks the computer to make sure it satisfies the minimum To install the MicroBook software on system requirements for your MOTU your PC: interface. If so, the installer proceeds with 1 Insert the MOTU Universal Installer the Mac OS X installation. Drivers are disc or download the installer from installed, along with the CueMix FX motu.com/download. application. 2 Launch the installer.

3 Follow the directions that the installer gives you.

INSTALLING THE MICROBOOK SOFTWARE 15 If Windows asks you to locate the EQ and dynamics processing. It also drivers provides access to all MicroBook If you’ve already connected the settings. For details, see chapter 7, MicroBook to your computer, Windows “CueMix FX” (page 37). probably issued an alert notifying you that the MicroBook requires drivers, ☛ CueMix FX is not required for iOS followed by another window asking you operation, as the MicroBook IIc operates to locate the drivers on disk. If this as a simple 4-input, 6-output audio happens: interface for iOS, with no mixing or processing features. 1 Cancel the driver search. AUDIODESK WORKSTATION 2 Disconnect the MicroBook. SOFTWARE (MAC AND WINDOWS) AudioDesk is an advanced digital audio 3 Run the MicroBook Software Installer workstation software package for the as instructed in the previous section. MicroBook that lets you record, edit, CUEMIX FX mix, process, bounce and master multi- The CueMix FX application (for Mac and track audio projects. Advanced features Windows) is installed on your hard drive include real-time 32-bit effects during software installation. It provides a processing, 24-bit recording, and much mixing console that gives you control more. See the AudioDesk User Guide PDF over the MicroBook’s on-board mixing, in the AudioDesk Help menu for details.

Figure 3-1: AudioDesk for Mac OS X and Windows.

16 INSTALLING THE MICROBOOK SOFTWARE CHAPTER 4 Installing the MicroBook Hardware

OVERVIEW Micro-B USB 2.0 cable for power Windows users: install the software first . . . . 17 The Micro-B USB cable (included) is a About USB cables ...... 17 standard USB 2.0 cable with Type A and Connecting to a computer ...... 18 Micro-B connectors. You can use any Connecting to an iOS device ...... 18 similar standard USB cable. Connect inputs and outputs ...... 19 Input settings ...... 21 Micro-B Bus power ...... 22 AC power ...... 22 A typical MicroBook setup ...... 23 WINDOWS USERS: INSTALL THE SOFTWARE FIRST Type A PC installation goes more smoothly if you install the MicroBook software (previous chapter) before you connect the MicroBook hardware (this chapter). Figure 4-2: Use this cable for connecting the MicroBook IIc to a power outlet when using ABOUT USB CABLES it with an iPad or other iOS device. The MicroBook IIc includes two USB cables: one for connecting to a host Use the included USB-to-power adapter computer, and another for connecting to to connect the Micro-B USB cable to a a power outlet (for iOS device operation). power outlet. If you are outside North America, use the supplied international Host computer USB 2.0 cable power adapter as shown below, if needed. The standard host computer USB cable (included) has Type A and Type B Micro-B USB power International connectors. USB cable adapter adapter Type A (if required) connector

Type A Type B

Figure 4-3: Attach the supplied USB power adapter to the Type A connector on the Micro-B USB cable. Add the International Figure 4-1: Use this standard Type A to Type adapter, if needed. B cable for connection to a host computer.

INSTALLING THE MICROBOOK HARDWARE 17 CONNECTING TO A COMPUTER CONNECTING TO AN iOS DEVICE 1 Plug the MicroBook Host Computer 1 Using a standard iOS camera USB cable (Figure 4-1, included) into a connection kit cable (purchased USB socket on the computer as shown separately), connect the MicroBook host below. USB cable to your iPad or other iOS device, as shown below in Figure 4-5. Mac

Camera iPad USB host connection kit cable cable (Figure 4-1)

PC

Figure 4-5: Connecting the MicroBook to an iPad or other iOS device.

2 Connect the other end of the host USB 2 Plug the other end of the USB cable cable to the MicroBook, as shown in into the MicroBook as shown below. Figure 4-4.

3 (Optional) Using the Micro-B USB cable (Figure 4-2, included) and USB power adapter (Figure 4-3, included), connect the MicroBook to a power outlet, as shown below in Figure 4-6.

Figure 4-4: Connecting the MicroBook to a computer.

When connected to a computer, the Figure 4-6: Powering the MicroBook from a MicroBook IIc is bus-powered from this power outlet when connected to an iPad or USB connection. other iOS device.

18 INSTALLING THE MICROBOOK HARDWARE CONNECT INPUTS AND OUTPUTS 20 dB pad Here are a few things to keep in mind as If the input signal is still too hot with the you connect other devices. trim turned all the way down, engage the -20dB pad by pushing the MIC knob or Mic input with preamp by enabling it in the CueMix FX Channel Connect a dynamic or condenser tab (Figure 4-9). See “Input settings” on microphone to the mic input (Figure 4-7) page 21. with a standard mic cable. Guitar input ☛ Do not connect a +4 (line level) input Plug in your guitar to the guitar input to the mic input (because it will overdrive (Figure 4-7). You can trim the level using the preamp). the CueMix FX software. See “Input settings” on page 21. Phantom power If you are connecting a condenser For ultra-realistic sound and feel when microphone or other device that requires producing guitar tones with processing 48V phantom power, you can enable software (amp modeling, cabinet phantom power for the mic input using modeling, virtual effects pedals, etc.), the MIC knob on the top panel: push and consider using MOTU’s ZBox guitar hold the knob to toggle 48V, as indicated impedance adapter (sold separately), by the 48V LED. See “Quick Reference: which adds proper impedance character- MicroBook Top Panel” on page 6. istics that cannot be modeled in software. Alternately, you can use the MicroBook’s Visit motu.com for details. CueMix FX software. See “Input settings” Line level inputs on page 21. The quarter-inch analog line level inputs ☛ Make sure 48V power is 3-4 (Figure 4-8) are balanced (TRS) turned OFF before plugging connectors that can also accept an anything in to the mic input. unbalanced plug. Alternately, you can use Only engage 48V power when a device the eighth-inch stereo mini plug for line that requires it is plugged in. level input (from an iPod or other source).

Figure 4-7: MicroBook IIc front panel

INSTALLING THE MICROBOOK HARDWARE 19 ☛ Do not use the stereo mini input and Line out quarter-inch inputs at the same time. If Use the eighth-inch stereo mini line out you are using the mini jack, unplug the jack for output to desktop speakers or any quarter-inch jacks. If you are using the other line level destination. quarter-inch jacks, unplug the mini jack. Digital out Further settings for the line inputs, such The S/PDIF RCA “digital out” connector as stereo pairing and pan settings for provides stereo digital audio output to mid/side micing are available in the another device: the S/PDIF output always CueMix FX software. See “Input settings” mirrors the Main Outs. on page 21. Tips for connecting other devices Trim Follow these simple guidelines to The mic and guitar inputs are equipped minimize noise that may be produced by with 51 dB and 32 dB (respectively) of other devices connected to the digitally controlled analog trim (boost). MicroBook: The line inputs can also be trimmed. Adjust the trim level for the mic input ■ Use balanced TRS quarter-inch cables using the MIC knob. Other inputs can be whenever possible. Balanced connections trimmed using the MicroBook’s CueMix greatly reduce noise resulting from FX software. See “Input settings” on electrical interference. page 21. ■ Use the MicroBook’s balanced quarter- inch connectors instead of the eighth- Main outs inch stereo “mini” connectors whenever In a standard studio configuration, the possible. main outs (Figure 4-8) are intended for a pair of studio monitors, but they can also ■ Don’t make unbalanced audio be used as outputs for any purpose. The connections between the MicroBook and quarter-inch main outs are calibrated to a FireWire or USB device while the other produce a +4 dBu line level output signal. device is connected to any computer, as this could significantly reduce the audio quality performance of the MicroBook.

Figure 4-8: MicroBook IIc back panel

20 INSTALLING THE MICROBOOK HARDWARE INPUT SETTINGS Input metering while adjusting trim To access input channel settings such as Use the long-throw, horizontal input level 48V phantom power, pad and trim, meter (5) at the top of the channel launch the MicroBook’s CueMix FX settings section (Figure 4-9) to calibrate software and follow this procedure: the level.

1 Click the Inputs tab (Figure 4-9).

2 Adjust the settings for each input channel as desired. The Focus button exposes further settings for the input in the Channel tab (4).

3 Each input can be trimmed.

4 Click the Channel tab (4) to access the channel’s input settings.

1 2 3 4 5 5

Figure 4-9: CueMix FX input settings

INSTALLING THE MICROBOOK HARDWARE 21 BUS POWER Examples of bus- powered operation Bus power requirements Bus power from a desktop computer When connected to a computer, the Your desktop computer is running off of MicroBook draws all the power it needs its usual AC power connection, and the from the USB HOST connection to the MicroBook draws power from the USB computer. However, the USB connection cable connected to the computer. There to the computer must meet all of the are no limits to running time. requirements discussed below. Bus power from an AC-powered laptop USB adapter products must be powered This scenario is identical to the desktop If you are using a USB adapter or hub (a situation described above: the laptop is third-party product that supplies one or powered by AC, the MicroBook is more USB ports to your computer), it powered via the USB bus and there are no must have direct access to a power limits to running time. supply: Bus power from a battery-powered ■ PCI USB cards — If you plan to laptop connect the MicroBook to a PCI card and The laptop is being powered by its own run the MicroBook under bus power, the battery, and the MicroBook is being PCI card must have a direct connection powered by its USB connection to the to the power supply harness inside your computer, so the laptop battery is computer. This is the same power supply supplying power to both the laptop and harness to which you connect internal the MicroBook. This is the most compact hard drives, CD/DVD drives, etc. and portable operating scenario. ■ PCMCIA, Cardbus or ExpressCard Running time is determined by the slot adapters — If you plan to connect capacity of the laptop battery. Alternately, the MicroBook to a PC card, Cardbus or you can power the MicroBook through ExpressCard USB adapter (inserted in its Micro-B USB power port (see below). the card slot in your laptop), it must AC POWER provide a powered connection and it As shown in Figure 4-6 on page 18, the must also have its own power supply. MicroBook IIc can be powered from a Most commonly, these types of products wall outlet or other AC power source have a DC power adapter that plugs into using the supplied power adapter and a an AC wall outlet. As you can see, Micro-B USB cable. This connection is however, this situation does not allow for required when using the MicroBook with remote battery operation, as the card iOS devices. This connection can be used adapter requires AC. optionally to power the MicroBook when it is connected to a battery-powered laptop.

22 INSTALLING THE MICROBOOK HARDWARE A TYPICAL MICROBOOK SETUP CueMix™ FX mixer to apply EQ and Here is a typical MicroBook studio setup. compression to what you are recording When using it with a computer, all and monitor it via the main outs, mixing and processing can be done either headphone outs, or any other output pair. in the MicroBook, in the computer with You can control everything from the audio software, or both. During included CueMix FX software. recording, you can use the MicroBook’s

Guitar (with or without an amp)

Power Headphones outlet Mic

USB power adapter

Necessary only for iOS operation

Monitors Home theater system

Computer Synthesizer or iOS device

Figure 4-10: A typical MicroBook studio setup.

INSTALLING THE MICROBOOK HARDWARE 23 24 INSTALLING THE MICROBOOK HARDWARE CHAPTER 5 Mac OS X Audio Software

OVERVIEW hardware is connected, powered up, and The MicroBook provides audio input and functioning normally. It also lets you output for all OS X Core Audio configure the MicroBook’s inputs and applications, including AudioDesk, outputs. For a quick overview, see Digital Performer, Logic Pro and chapter , “Quick Reference: CueMix FX” GarageBand. Other third-party software (page 7). For further details about the applications are also supported, such as MicroBook settings, see chapter 7, Ableton Live, Avid Pro Tools, Cockos “CueMix FX” (page 37). Reaper, Propellerhead Reason, Steinberg Cubase and others.

Installing the MicroBook OS X drivers...... 25 Running CueMix FX ...... 25 Choosing the MicroBook driver...... 25 Sample rate ...... 27 Clock Source ...... 27 Buffer Size ...... 27 Inputs and outputs ...... 27 Processing live inputs with host-based effects plug-ins ...... 27 Figure 5-1: CueMix FX. Working with CueMix FX mixing and effects 27 24-bit operation ...... 27 CHOOSING THE MICROBOOK DRIVER Monitoring live input ...... 28 Once you’ve made the preparations Adjusting the audio I/O buffer ...... 29 described so far in this chapter, you’re CueMix FX hardware monitoring ...... 31 ready to run your audio software and INSTALLING THE MICROBOOK OS X enable the MOTU MicroBook Core DRIVERS Audio driver. Check the audio system or To install the MicroBook’s OS X audio audio hardware configuration window in drivers, just run the installer as detailed your software. There will be a menu there in chapter 3, “Installing the MicroBook that lets you choose among various Software” (page 15). drivers that may be in your system. Choose the MOTU MicroBook from this RUNNING CUEMIX FX menu, as discussed in the following Before you run your host audio software, sections. launch CueMix FX to configure your MicroBook hardware. Running CueMix FX confirms that the MicroBook

MAC OS X AUDIO SOFTWARE 25 Digital Performer and AudioDesk about the Audio Buffer Size setting, see Choose the MicroBook as your audio “Adjusting the audio I/O buffer” on input output device by choosing page 29. Configure Audio System>Configure Hardware Driver from the Setup menu. Live This window shows MicroBook settings In Ableton Live, access the preferences such as sample rate and clock source. window and click the Audio tab. Choose CoreAudio from the Driver Type menu. Pro Tools Choose the MOTU MicroBook from the In Avid Pro Tools, go to the Setup menu Input Audio Device and Output Audio and choose Playback Engine. Choose the Device menus. For information about the MicroBook from the Current Engine Buffer Size setting, see “Adjusting the menu. For information about the H/W audio I/O buffer” on page 29. Buffer Size setting, see “Adjusting the audio I/O buffer” on page 29. Reason and Record In Propellerhead Reason and Record, go ☛ Pro Tools 9 or later is required. to the Preferences window, choose Audio preferences from the menu and choose Logic Pro MOTU MicroBook from the Audio Output In Logic Pro, go to the Preferences menu. For information about the Buffer window, click the Audio tab, click the Size setting, see “Adjusting the audio I/O Drivers tab and click the Core Audio tab. buffer” on page 29. Choose the MOTU MicroBook from the Output and Input device menus. For info Reaper about the I/O Buffer Size setting, see In Cockos Reaper, access the Preferences “Adjusting the audio I/O buffer” on and click Devices under the Audio page 29. preferences. Choose MOTU MicroBook from the Audio Device menu. Garage Band In Garage Band, go to the Audio/MIDI Other audio software preferences and choose MOTU For other audio applications, the MicroBook from the Audio Output and procedure is similar to that shown above. Audio Input menus. For information Consult your owner’s manual for further about the Optimize for setting, see information. “Adjusting the audio I/O buffer” on page 29.

Cubase and Nuendo Go to the Device Setup window. Click the VST Audio System item in the Devices list and choose MOTU MicroBook from the ASIO Driver menu. For information

26 MAC OS X AUDIO SOFTWARE SAMPLE RATE WORKING WITH CUEMIX FX Choose the desired overall sample rate MIXING AND EFFECTS for the MicroBook system in your host The MicroBook provides powerful software. Newly recorded audio will have external mixing, EQ and compression, this sample rate. which you can operate hand-in-hand with your host’s mixing environment. For CLOCK SOURCE example, the MicroBook can serve as a Some host software may have a “clock monitor mixer routing channels to source” setting. For the MicroBook, there musicians, or it can serve as an integrated is only one choice for clock source: extension of your host’s mixing Internal. environment. If you program a MicroBook mixing and processing BUFFER SIZE Most host applications provide a Buffer configuration that goes hand in hand setting, which can be adjusted to reduce with your host project, be sure to use the the delay — or monitoring latency — that configuration export features in CueMix you hear when live audio is patched FX to save the MicroBook settings as a file through your host software. For example, in your host project folder for instant you might have a mic, guitar, and MIDI recall of all settings. See chapter 7, synth connected to the analog inputs of “CueMix FX” (page 37) for complete the MicroBook. If so, you will often be details. mixing their live input with audio 24-BIT OPERATION material recorded in your host software. Your MicroBook hardware fully supports See “Monitoring live input” below. 24-bit recording with host software that also supports 24-bit operation. Consult INPUTS AND OUTPUTS Once you’ve enabled the MicroBook’s the documentation for your host software Core Audio driver, MicroBook audio for further information about enabling inputs and outputs will appear in your 24-bit operation. host software wherever audio inputs and outputs are listed.

PROCESSING LIVE INPUTS WITH HOST-BASED EFFECTS PLUG-INS If you patch a live input (such as a microphone or guitar) through a plug-in effect in your host software, you might hear a slight delay. There are several ways to reduce this delay. For details, see “Monitoring live input” on page 28.

MAC OS X AUDIO SOFTWARE 27 MONITORING LIVE INPUT “Adjusting the audio I/O buffer” for There are two ways to monitor live audio details about how to reduce or eliminate input with a MicroBook: the audible monitoring delay that the computer introduces. 1 Through the computer Figure 5-3 on page 29 shows method #2. 2 Via the MicroBook CueMix FX CueMix FX hardware-based monitoring hardware mixer lets you hear what you are recording with no monitoring delay and no computer- Figure 5-2 below shows method #1, based effects processing. Rather, input is which allows you to apply host-based routed directly to an output, either with effects processing via plug-ins in your or without MicroBook-based effects audio software. See the next section, processing (EQ or compression). See 1. Live input (from mic, guitar, etc.) enters the MicroBook.

3. Mic signal is ‘patched thru’ back to the audio 2. Mic signal goes interface with host-based immediately to plug-in effects, if any. the computer. Computer 4. Mic signal (with plug-in processing, if any) is routed to the main outs (or other outputs that you’ve specified in the software).

Figure 5-2: There are two ways to monitor live audio inputs with a MicroBook: 1) through the computer or 2) via CueMix FX hardware monitoring. This diagram shows method 1 (through the computer). When using this method, use your host software’s buffer setting to reduce the slight delay you hear when monitoring the live input, but don’t lower it too much, or your computer might get sluggish.

28 MAC OS X AUDIO SOFTWARE “CueMix FX hardware monitoring” later ADJUSTING THE AUDIO I/O BUFFER in this chapter for details on how to use A buffer is a small amount of computer CueMix FX with your audio software, or memory used to hold data. For audio with CueMix FX. interfaces like the MicroBook, buffers are used for the process of transferring audio If the material you are recording is data in and out of the computer. The size suitable, there is a third way to monitor of the buffers determines how much delay live input: use both methods (Figure 5-2 you hear when monitoring live inputs and Figure 5-3) at the same time. For through your audio software: larger example, you could route guitar to both buffers produce more delay; smaller the computer (for an amp model effect) buffers produce less. and mix that processed signal on the main outs with dry guitar from CueMix FX.

1. Live input (from mic, guitar, etc.) enters the MicroBook. 2. CueMix FX immediately patches the live mic signal directly to the main outs (or other output), completely bypassing the computer. This signal could be dry, or with MicroBook effects processing, such as EQ or compression.

3. Mic signal is mixed to the main outs, and you can control the volume (relative to the rest of the mix) with the mic’s fader in CueMix FX.

Figure 5-3: This diagram shows the signal flow when using CueMix FX no-latency monitoring. Notice that this method does not process the live input with plug-ins in your audio software. Instead, you can apply MicroBook effects, such as the EQ and/or compression.

MAC OS X AUDIO SOFTWARE 29 Under OS X, audio I/O buffer size is Cubase handled by the host audio application (not the MicroBook Core Audio driver). Most audio software applications provide an adjustable audio buffer setting that lets you control the amount of delay you’ll hear when monitoring live inputs or processing them with software plug-ins. Below are a few examples. For more examples, see chapter 5, “Mac OS X Audio Software” (page 25).

Digital Performer Figure 5-5: In Cubase or Nuendo, choose Devices menu> Device Setup and select the MicroBook to access the window above and the Audio Buffer Size setting (via the Control Panel button).

Logic

Figure 5-4: In Digital Per former and AudioDesk, choose Setup menu> Configure Audio System> Configure Hardware Driver to open the dialog shown above and access the Buffer Size setting. Refer to your Digital Figure 5-6: In Logic Pro or Logic Express, go Performer or AudioDesk user guide for infor- to the Audio Driver preferences to access the mation about the Host Buffer Multiplier I/O Buffer Size option shown above. setting.

30 MAC OS X AUDIO SOFTWARE Lower latency versus higher CPU If you are at a point in your recording overhead project where you are not currently The buffer setting has a large impact on working with live, patched-thru material the following things: (e.g. you’re not recording vocals), or if ■ Patch thru latency you have a way of externally processing inputs, choose a higher buffer size. ■ The load on your computer’s CPU Depending on your computer’s CPU ■ Possible distortion at the smallest speed, you might find that settings in the settings middle work best (256 to 1024). ■ How responsive the transport controls Transport responsiveness are in your host audio software Buffer size also impacts how quickly your audio software will respond when you The buffer setting presents you with a begin playback, although not by amounts trade-off between the processing power that are very noticeable. Lowering the of your computer and the delay of live buffer size will make your software audio as it is being patched through your respond faster; raising the buffer size will software. If you reduce the size, you make it a little bit slower, but barely reduce patch thru latency, but may enough to notice. significantly increase the overall processing load on your computer, Effects processing and automated leaving less CPU bandwidth for things mixing like real-time effects processing. On the Reducing latency with the buffer size other hand, if you increase the buffer size, setting has another benefit: it lets you you reduce the load on your computer, route live inputs through the real-time freeing up bandwidth for effects, mixing effects processing and mix automation of and other real-time operations. your audio software. CUEMIX FX HARDWARE MONITORING The MicroBook has a more direct method of patching audio through the system. This method employs the MicroBook’s CueMix FX digital mixer. When enabled, CueMix FX activates Figure 5-7: When adjusting the buffer size to hardware patch-thru in the MicroBook reduce monitoring latency, watch the itself. CueMix FX has two important ‘Processing’ meter in Digital Performer or AudioDesk’s Performance Monitor. If you benefits: hear distortion, or if the Performance meter is peaking, try raising the buffer size.

MAC OS X AUDIO SOFTWARE 31 ■ It completely eliminates the patch thru delay (reducing it to a small number of samples — about the same amount as one of today’s advanced digital mixers). ■ CueMix FX imposes no strain on the computer. The trade-off, however, is that CueMix FX bypasses your host audio software. Instead, live audio inputs are patched directly through to outputs in the MicroBook itself and are mixed with disk tracks playing back from your audio software. This means that you cannot apply host-based plug-ins, mix automation, or other real-time effects that your audio software provides. But for inputs that don’t need these types of features, CueMix FX is the way to go.

On the other hand, if you really need to use the mixing and processing provided by your audio software, you should not use CueMix FX. Instead, reduce latency with the buffer setting (as explained earlier in this chapter).

Using CueMix FX The CueMix FX software manages your monitor mix and runs side-by-side with your host audio software.

CueMix FX allows you to create up to four separate MicroBook stereo mixes, or any other desired routing configurations. These routings are independent of your host audio software. For complete details, see chapter 7, “CueMix FX” (page 37).

32 MAC OS X AUDIO SOFTWARE CHAPTER 6 Windows Audio Software

OVERVIEW outputs. For a quick overview, see The MicroBook includes an ASIO driver chapter , “Quick Reference: CueMix FX” that provides multi-channel I/O with (page 7). ASIO-compatible hosts such as Cubase, Nuendo, SONAR, Live, Reason, and more.

A standard Windows audio driver is also included for multi-channel audio input and output for any audio application that supports Windows multimedia audio drivers.

Installing the MicroBook Windows drivers . . 33 Running CueMix FX ...... 33 Figure 6-1: CueMix FX. Choosing the MicroBook driver...... 33 For further details about the MicroBook Sample rate ...... 34 settings, see chapter 7, “CueMix FX” Clock Source ...... 34 (page 37). Inputs and outputs ...... 34 Working with CueMix FX mixing and effects 34 CHOOSING THE MICROBOOK 24-bit operation ...... 35 DRIVER Once you’ve made the preparations INSTALLING THE MICROBOOK WINDOWS DRIVERS described so far in this chapter, you’re To install the MicroBook’s Windows ready to run your audio software and audio drivers, just run the installer as enable the MOTU MicroBook ASIO or detailed in chapter 3, “Installing the Windows multimedia driver. Check the MicroBook Software” (page 15). audio system or audio hardware configuration window in your software. RUNNING CUEMIX FX There will be a menu there that lets you Before you run your host audio software, choose among various drivers that may launch CueMix FX to configure your be in your system. Choose the MOTU MicroBook hardware. Running CueMix ASIO or Windows multimedia driver FX confirms that the MicroBook from this menu, as explained briefly in hardware is connected, powered up, and the following sections for several popular functioning normally. It also lets you Windows applications. configure the MicroBook’s inputs and

WINDOWS AUDIO SOFTWARE 33 Pro Tools Other audio software In Avid Pro Tools, go to the Setup menu For other audio applications, the and choose Playback Engine. Choose the procedure is similar to that shown above. MOTU MicroBook ASIO from the Consult your owner’s manual for further Current Engine menu.34 information.

☛ Pro Tools 9 or later is required. SAMPLE RATE Choose the desired overall sample rate Cubase and Nuendo for the MicroBook system in your host In Cubase or Nuendo, go to the Device audio software. Newly recorded audio Setup window, choose VST Audio System will have this sample rate. and select MOTU MicroBook ASIO from the ASIO Driver menu. Activate the CLOCK SOURCE inputs and outputs within Cubase or Some host software may have a “clock Nuendo as usual. source” setting. For the MicroBook, there is only one choice for clock source: Live Internal. In Ableton Live, access the preferences window and click the Audio tab. Choose INPUTS AND OUTPUTS ASIO from the Driver Type menu. Once you’ve enabled the MicroBook’s Choose the MOTU MicroBook ASIO driver, MicroBook audio inputs and from the Audio Device menu. To enable outputs will appear in your host software or disable input or output channels, click wherever audio inputs and outputs are the Input Config or Output Config listed. buttons. WORKING WITH CUEMIX FX MIXING Reason and Record AND EFFECTS In Propellerhead Reason and Record, go The MicroBook provides powerful to the Preferences window, choose Audio external mixing, EQ and compression, preferences from the menu and choose which you can operate hand-in-hand ASIO MOTU MicroBook ASIO from the with your host software’s complete Audio Card Driver menu. mixing environment. For example, the MicroBook can serve as a monitor mixer Reaper routing channels to musicians, or it can In Cockos Reaper, access the Preferences serve as an integrated extension of your and click Devices under the Audio digital audio workstation’s mixing preferences. Choose ASIO for the audio environment. If you program a system and choose MOTU MicroBook MicroBook mixing and processing ASIO from the ASIO driver menu. configuration that goes hand in hand with your digital audio workstation’s project, be sure to use the file save features in CueMix FX to save the

34 WINDOWS AUDIO SOFTWARE MicroBook settings as a file in the same folder as your digital audio workstation’s project file for instant recall of all settings. See chapter 7, “CueMix FX” (page 37) for complete details.

24-BIT OPERATION Your MicroBook hardware fully supports 24-bit recording capabilities. Simply enable 24-bit operation as instructed in your digital audio workstation’s manual. The MicroBook always supplies a 24-bit data stream.

WINDOWS AUDIO SOFTWARE 35 36 WINDOWS AUDIO SOFTWARE CHAPTER 7 CueMix FX

OVERVIEW can be recorded wet, dry, or dry with a CueMix FX is a cross-platform software wet monitor mix (for musicians during application that provides graphic, on- recording, for example). screen control for the MicroBook’s flexible CueMix FX on-board mixer and Effects include: effects processing. ■ 7-band parametric EQ modeled after For more information British analog console EQs For complete information about ■ A standard compressor with CueMix FX, refer to the CueMix FX PDF conventional threshold, ratio, attack, manual, which is placed on your hard release, and gain controls drive by the MicroBook installer. The MicroBook’s flexible effects An 8-bus mixer with EQ and compression . . 37 architecture allows you to apply seven CueMix FX versus host mixing ...... 37 bands of EQ and compression on every CueMix FX installation ...... 38 input and output simultaneously. CueMix FX basic operation...... 38 The Inputs tab ...... 40 CUEMIX FX VERSUS HOST MIXING The Mixes tab ...... 41 CueMix FX provides several major The Outputs tab ...... 42 advantages over mixing and processing The Meters tab...... 43 in your host audio software: The Signal Generator tab ...... 43 ■ CueMix FX has no buffer latency. Scope/Return channels ...... 44 Thanks to the MicroBook’s DSP chip, Audio analysis tools...... 45 CueMix FX provides the same AN 8-BUS MIXER WITH EQ AND throughput performance as a digital COMPRESSION mixer. All MicroBook inputs and outputs can be mixed and controlled by the on-board ■ CueMix FX mixing and effects CueMix FX 8-bus (4 stereo bus) digital processing imposes no processor drain mixer driven by hardware-based DSP. on the computer’s CPU. ■ CueMix FX routing can be maintained The CueMix FX mixer allows you to independently of individual software apply no-latency EQ and dynamics to applications or projects. inputs and outputs directly in the MicroBook hardware, independent of the computer. Input signals to the computer

CUEMIX FX 37 CUEMIX FX INSTALLATION single stereo audio stream that you can CueMix FX is installed with the rest of then assign to any MicroBook output your MicroBook software. pair — or combination of output pairs — that you choose. For example, Mix 1 CUEMIX FX BASIC OPERATION could go to the headphones, Mix 2 could Here is a brief overview of the CueMix FX go to the main outs, Mix 3 could go to a mixer. piece of outboard gear connected to Four stereo mix busses analog outputs 3-4, and so on. You can CueMix FX provides four stereo mix also assign a mix to multiple output pairs. busses: Mix 1, Mix 2, Mix 3, and Mix 4. For example, you could assign Mix 1 to Each mix bus can take any number of the Main Out, Phones, and Line Out. inputs and mix them together into a

Mix bus Tabs for Mix bus menu inputs, mix master Channel busses and fader settings outputs

Channel Focus Output volume controls

Channel scroll Grow bar handle

Inputs Aux Tabs for channel strip channel settings, including EQ and audio dynamics, as well as global settings such as the meter bridge and Signal Generator.

Figure 7-1: CueMix FX is a virtual mixer that gives you control over the MicroBook’s on-board mixing features .

38 CUEMIX FX Viewing one mix bus at a time and dynamics processing. These settings CueMix FX displays one mix bus at a time are applied to the signal just before it is in the Mixes tab (Figure 7-1 on page 38). sent to the output. To select which mix you are viewing, choose it from the mix bus menu. The Channel focus and settings mix name appears above the mix bus Click the focus button for a channel master fader, where you can click the (Figure 7-1) to view channel-specific name to change it. parameters in the Channel Settings section of the CueMix FX window Each mix bus is independent (Figure 7-1). Separate tabs are provided Each mix bus has its own settings. for channel-specific settings (channel Settings for one bus will not affect strip, EQ and dynamics), plus the global another. For example, if an input is used meter bridge and signal generator. for one bus, it will still be available for other busses. In addition, inputs can have Output volume controls a different volume, pan, mute and solo The Output volume controls(Figure 7-1) setting in each bus. provide independent volume control for all of the MicroBook’s outputs. Input channels The Inputs tab (Figure 7-2 on page 40) Other features gives you access to settings for individual CueMix FX offers many additional MicroBook inputs (or input pairs), such features, such as extensive metering, as phase, trim, EQ and dynamics graphic editing of certain effects processing. These settings are applied to parameters, and more. For complete the signal before it goes anywhere else (to information, refer to the CueMix FX PDF a mix bus or the computer). manual, which is placed on your hard drive by the MicroBook installer. Output channels The Outputs tab (Figure 7-4 on page 42) Widening the CueMix FX window gives you access to settings for each To view more input faders at once, resize MicroBook output pair, including EQ the window.

CUEMIX FX 39 THE INPUTS TAB input pair. Use the Focus button Click the Inputs tab (Figure 7-2) to access (Figure 7-2) to access the Channel , EQ, and control all of these input channel and dynamics tab settings for each input. settings for each MicroBook input or

Inputs tab Input name Channel focus Mono/stereo paring Invert phase Input trim

EQ/dynamics graph EQ band selectors LP/HP filter selector EQ/dynamics Compressor controls selector EQ/dynamics enable/disable

Input scroll bar

Figure 7-2: The Inputs tab. The Channel tab. The EQ tab. The Dynamics tab.

40 CUEMIX FX THE MIXES TAB MicroBook from your host audio Click the Mixes tab (Figure 7-3) to gain software. By bringing up this fader, you access to the MicroBook’s four stereo mix can combine live inputs (mic, guitar, and busses. The Mixes tab displays one mix line 1-2) with any audio from the bus at a time: choose each mix from the computer. Mix bus menu in the tab itself. Each fader represents an input to the mix, except the Stereo grouping fader on the right, which is the master The input channel strips in the Mixes tab fader for the mix. To assign each mix to a can represent either a mono input MicroBook output, visit the Outputs tab. channel or a stereo pair. For the line inputs, this is controlled by their Aux 1-2 grouping in the Inputs tab, using the Inputs consist of physical inputs on the Mono/Stereo buttons in the channel MicroBook interface (mic, guitar, etc.), strips for the line inputs (Figure 7-2). but there is also a stereo input channel for Aux 1-2. This is audio being routed to the

Mix Mix bus 1 Mixes bus master tab menu fader

Input name Bus name Channel focus Input pan Currently section assigned outs

Bus fader Input fader Bus mute Input mute/solo Bus level meter Input level meter

Scroll bar for input channels Mic Guitar Line inputs 3-4 Aux input input (ungrouped channel as mono inputs) audio Figure 7-3: The Mixes tab.

CUEMIX FX 41 THE OUTPUTS TAB Signal flows from top to bottom The Outputs tab (Figure 7-4) lets you Settings in each Output tab channel strip apply EQ and dynamics to any output are applied to the signal in order from top pair, just before the signal leaves the to bottom. For example, EQ occurs MicroBook. This is processing that before Dynamics. occurs at the very end of the signal flow, Output channel focus after everything else (host based effects, Click the channel focus button MicroBook input or bus processing, (Figure 7-4) to view and edit parameters, mixing, and so on). Processing is done in such as EQ and dynamics, in the Output the digital domain, just before the signal Settings section of the CueMix FX goes analog through the D/A converter. window. Output tab processing is applied to the entire output mix (all signals being mixed Output source to the output from various sources). Choose the Source for the audio output. The source can be a mix bus (which can have multiple sources itself) or the MicroBook’s signal generator.

Output settings Outputs tab

Output name Channel focus Output source

EQ/Dynamics graph EQ/Dynamics controls EQ/Dynamics enable/disable

Figure 7-4: The Outputs tab.

42 CUEMIX FX THE METERS TAB THE SIGNAL GENERATOR TAB The Meters tab (Figure 7-5) serves as a The Signal Generator tab (Figure 7-6) comprehensive meter bridge for all provides settings for the Sine Wave inputs, outputs and mix busses in the generator (frequency and amplitude) and MicroBook, giving you a “bird’s-eye” the White/Pink noise generators view of all signal activity. (amplitude). Use the Output Source menus in the Outputs tab (Figure 7-4) to Channel meter display choose the desired ouput(s) for these test The channel meter display (Figure 7-5) signals. provides a long-throw meter for the input or output that currently has the focus in the Input/Output tabs.

Pre/post processing switch The pre/post processing switch (Figure 7-5) affects all input meters (and the meter in the channel meter display above the tab, if this area is displaying an input meter). Click Pre to view levels before any EQ or dynamics processing; click Post to view levels after EQ or dynamics processing.

Channel meter display Meters tab Figure 7-6: The Signal Generator tab. Pre/post processing switch

Pre/post processing switch

Figure 7-5: The Meters tab.

CUEMIX FX 43 SCOPE/RETURN CHANNELS For example, if you want to mix inputs Choose Devices menu> MicroBook> with effects and send the result to Setup to access the Scope/Return Channel MicroBook outputs, but you also want to Selection settings below (Figure 7-7). The send those same inputs dry (no MicroBook sends two extra return processing) to the host, then select those channels to the host audio software inputs in the Scope/Return menus and running on your computer. This window choose Return 1 and/or Return 2 as the lets you control the audio source for each input to your host software. channel and whether or not the signal will be processed with the MicroBook EQ Scope channels The CueMix FX tuner and audio analysis and/or Dynamics processing settings via (scoping) features described on the next the Pre/post effects menu. few pages always look at the two Scope/ Note that you can route entire mix busses, Return channels (Figure 7-7). and even MicroBook output signals, back TUNER to the computer. The Tuner window is an accurate and easy to use tuner. Choose the Tuner item Source Pre/post effects from the Devices menu, under the MicroBook. The Tuner follows the currently chosen Scope/Return channels. The displayed channel pair is shown in the lower left corner. Each channel has a check box to enable or disable its input to the tuner.

Detected Meter frequency Meter value

Serial number Figure 7-7: MicroBook Device Setup.

Return channels Detected Reference The source for the Return 1 and Return 2 note frequency channels in your host audio software Arrow (provided by the MicroBook Core Audio and ASIO driver) are determined by Scope/Return channel settings (Figure 7-7).

44 CUEMIX FX AUDIO ANALYSIS TOOLS Spectrogram CueMix FX provides advanced audio Choose Options menu> Show analysis tools. This section gives a brief Spectrogram (Figure 7-8) to superimpose summary. For complete information, a real-time spectrogram “waterfall” refer to the CueMix FX PDF manual, display in the EQ display background: which is placed on your hard drive by the MicroBook installer.

FFT display The Filter response display section in CueMix FX can display real-time FFT and spectrogram information.

Choose Show FFT from the Filter display Figure 7-9: Spectrogram display. options menu (Figure 7-8) to X-Y Plot superimpose a real-time Fast Fourier The X-Y Plot window (Figure 7-10) Transform (FFT) frequency graphs the amplitude of a stereo audio measurement curve over the EQ filter signal on a two-dimensional grid. To display, as show below: open the X-Y Plot, choose it from the Devices menu. Options menu FFT curve

Figure 7-8: FFT display. Make sure that the Scope Channels (Figure 7-7) match the channels that are currently in focus via the Focus buttons (Figure 7-1). Figure 7-10: X-Y Plot.

The FFT curve is post-filter. Therefore, For each unit of time (i.e. each sample), the FFT shows the results of the EQ the amplitude of the left channel is filter(s) being applied. displayed on the x-axis and the amplitude of the right channel is displayed on the y-axis. A thick white vertical line marks where left channel amplitude equals zero; a thick white horizontal line marks where

CUEMIX FX 45 right channel amplitude equals zero (Figure 7-10, below). There are also thick white diagonal lines for y = x and y = -x.

Phase Analysis To open the Phase Analysis window (Figure 7-11), choose it from the Devices menu. Phase Analysis graphs frequency Figure 7-11: Rectangular versus Polar versus phase difference versus amplitude display with a logarithmic plot. of a stereo signal on either rectangular or Oscilloscope polar coordinates. CueMix FX provides a full-featured In rectangular coordinates, the vertical oscilloscope (Figure 7-12). To open an axis represents frequency, and the oscilloscope, choose the Oscilloscope item horizontal axis represents the phase of the from the Devices menu. left channel minus the phase of the right The oscilloscope follows the currently channel (measured in radians). chose scope channels (Figure 7-7 on In polar coordinates, the radius page 44). represents frequency and the angle (theta) from the +y vertical axis represents the phase difference of left channel minus the right channel.

Figure 7-12: Oscilloscope

46 CUEMIX FX APPENDIX A Troubleshooting

AudioDesk authorization doesn’t succeed Monitoring - How to monitor inputs? When authorizing AudioDesk, the OK Please refer to the documentation for the button does not become active until you audio application that you are using. If have entered in your name and a valid your application does not support input keycode. Your name must contain at least monitoring, you will need to use the 3 characters, and you must enter the MicroBook’s hardware-based keycode provided with your AudioDesk CueMix FX monitoring feature. Please installer disc. Additionally, the see chapter 7, “CueMix FX” (page 37). AudioDesk installer disc must be inserted. Controlling monitoring latency See chapter 7, “CueMix FX” (page 37). Clicks and pops due to hard drive problems CUSTOMER SUPPORT You may have a drive related problem. We are happy to provide customer Try recording just using the analog inputs support to our registered users. If you and outputs of the MicroBook. If you haven’t already done so, please take a encounter the same artifacts you may moment to register on line at motu.com, want try using another drive in your or fill out and mail the registration card computer. Clicks and pops can also occur included with your MicroBook. Doing so when the drive is severely fragmented, entitles you to technical support and the disk drivers are outdated, or other notices about new products and software drive-related issues. If you are using a updates. USB hard drive on the same bus as the REPLACING DISKS MicroBook, it could be that the USB bus If your MicroBook software installer disc is overloaded (too many devices on the becomes damaged and fails to provide same bus). Try removing all devices you with fresh, working copies of the except the MicroBook. software, our Customer Support Connecting or powering gear during Department will be glad to replace it. You operation can request a replacement disc by calling It is not recommended that you connect/ our business office at (617) 576-2760 and disconnect, or power on or off devices asking for the customer service connected to the MicroBook while department. In the meantime, you can recording or playing back audio. Doing download the latest drivers from so may cause a brief glitch in the audio. www.motu.com.

47 TECHNICAL SUPPORT ■ The pages in the user guide which refer If you are unable, with your dealer’s help, to the parts of the MicroBook or to solve problems you encounter with the AudioDesk with which you are having MicroBook system, you may contact our trouble. technical support department in one of ■ The version of your computer’s the following ways: operating system. ■ Tech support hotline, Monday through We’re not able to solve every problem Friday, 9 AM to 6 PM EST: immediately, but a quick call to us may (617) 576-3066 yield a suggestion for a problem which ■ Online support: you might otherwise spend hours trying www.motu.com/support to track down. Please provide the following information If you have features or ideas you would to help us solve your problem as quickly like to see implemented, we’d like to hear as possible: from you. Please contact us online at www.motu.com/suggestions or write to: ■ The serial number of the MicroBook system. Please see “Obtaining your MicroBook Development Team MicroBook serial number” on page 14. MOTU Inc. You must be able to supply this number to 1280 Massachusetts Avenue, receive technical support. Cambridge, MA 02138. ■ A brief explanation of the problem, including the exact sequence of actions which cause it, and the contents of any error messages which appear on the screen.

48 APPENDIX A: TROUBLESHOOTING 0 Index Sig Gen tab Customer support 47 L 20 dB pad 19 Latency 28, 31, 37 24-bit 27, 35 D Line inputs/outputs 20 recording 10 Digital (S/PDIF) output 20 quarter-inch jacks 5 48V phantom power 4 Digital Performer 25 stereo mini jacks 5 buffer size 30 Live 25, 26, 34 A enabling MicroBook Logic Pro/Express 25, 26, 30 Analog inputs/outputs Driver 26 LP/HP filter 40 connecting to 19 Disc Apple replacing 47 M GarageBand 26 Drivers Mac OS X Logic Pro/Express 26, 30 installing 15 audio software 25 ASIO 26 Mac OS X 25 Main outs Cubase 34 Windows 33 connecting 20 Live 34 DSP jacks 5 Nuendo 34 resources 37 volume Reason 34 Dynamic mic 4 Main volume Record (application) 34 Dynamics tab 40 Master fader AudioDesk 16 mix busses 41 enabling MicroBook driv- E Meters 21 er 26 EQ tab 40 Meters tab 7, 43 Aux 1-2 41 ExpressCard adaptors 22 Mic/guitar inputs 19 Avid Pro Tools 26, 34 connecting 23 F setting input trim level 6 B FFT display 45 MicroBook Balanced analog 19 Focus 7, 21, 39, 40, 41 hardware installation 15, Bit depth 5, 10 Outputs tab 42 17 Buffer size 27, 29 serial number 9, 14, 44 Bus power 5 G software installation 15 requirements 22 GarageBand 25, 26 summary of features 9 Guitar/mic inputs Mini jacks 20 C connecting 19, 23 Mix bus Cardbus adaptors 22 setting input trim level 6 master fader 41 Channel tab 21, 40 Mixes tab 7, 41 Clock source 27, 34 H Monitoring 28 Cockos Reaper 26, 34 Headphones Monitors Condenser mic 4 connecting 23 connecting 20 Converters 5 jack 4 Core Audio 25 Host-based processing 27 N Cubase 25, 34 HP/LP filter 40 Nuendo 34 Audio Buffer Size 26 Mac OS X 26 buffer size 30 I Windows 34 Mac OS X 26 Input level 20 Windows 34 Input trim 40 O CueMix FX 31, 33, 34, 37-46 Inputs Optimization 31 Channel tab 40 guitar 19 Oscilloscope 46 Dynamics tab 40 line 19 Outputs EQ tab 40 mic 19 line 20 focus 39 trim 20 main 20 Inputs tab 40 Inputs tab 7, 21, 39, 40 phones installation 16, 38 Installation S/PDIF 5 launching 7 hardware 15, 17 signal flow 42 Mac OS X software 27 software 15, 25, 33 Outputs tab 8, 39, 42 Meters tab 43 Installer disc Mixes tab 41 replacing 47 P Outputs tab 42 Invert phase 40 Packing list 13 overview 37, 38 Pad 19

INDEX 49 Patch thru connecting 23 Trim 20 latency 31 Scope/Return Channel 44 Troubleshooting 47-48 PCMCIA adaptors 22 Serial number 9, 14, 44 TRS connectors 19 Performance 31 Setup 14 Tuner 44 Phantom power 4, 19 Show Phase Analysis 46 FFT 45 U Phones (see Headphones) Spectrogram 45 Unbalanced analog 19 Pink noise Sig Gen tab (see Signal Gener- USB Plug-in processing 27 ator tab) bus power 5 Post-EQ/Compressor 44 Signal Generator tab 7, 43 connecting 18 Pre/post FX buttons 43 Sine wave PC card adapters 22 Precision Digital Trim 10 Software installation 15 PCI cards 22 Pre-Effects/EQ/Compressor Mac OS X 25 44 Windows 33 V Pro Tools 26, 34 Soundtrack Pro 25 Volume control 7, 39 Propellerhead (see Reason, Source 8, 42, 44 Record) Spectrogram 45 W Steinberg Cubase 25, 26 White noise R Stereo mini jacks 20 Windows Reaper 26, 34 Stereo pairing 40, 41 drivers 33 Reason 25, 34 Studio setup (example) 23 Record (application) 34 Synths X Registration 13 connecting 5, 23 X-Y Plot 45 Return 1-2 44 System requirements minimum 13 Z S recommended 13 ZBox guitar adapter 4 S/PDIF 5, 20 Sample rate 27, 34 T Samplers Technical support 47, 48

50 INDEX