StudioJack Mini

StudioJack Mini Guide

Discontinued. StudioJack Mini is no longer available for purchase.

Features & Tech Specs

Features Overview

2-in/2-out audio interface

24-bit/48kHz AD/DA converters

Mono Hi-Z 1/4 inch input for guitar and bass with 60 dB of gain

Stereo mic/line 1/4 inch input for vocals or keyboards with 60 dB of gain

2 analog input level knobs with LED metering

1 stereo ¼ inch output for headphones (stereo line-out) - use headphones with iPhone 7, iPhone 8 (and earlier compatible devices), and charge while you play!

Compact size for easy portability

Works with dynamic and battery powered condenser mics. Provides 3.3 V Plug-in Power for mono or stereo Electret Condenser microphones.

Device powered, so no batteries or external power is required for any of the above features.

Pass-through charging: Charge your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch while you play by using a standard USB power adapter, like the one included with your phone or tablet (so not included with StudioJack Mini). Also reduces power consumption for compatible Android device.

For more features, check out GuitarJack Stage, which adds an expression pedal jack to control wah, volume, or other effects; 2 line level ¼ inch outputs (left and right) for monitors/amps/mixer; 1 stereo ¼ inch output for headphones; 5 knobs, 4 foot switches, and 4 LEDs for controling MIDI enabled software; all encased in a rugged aluminum chassis.

See StudioJack Mini tech specs below.

Included in the Box

StudioJack Mini

Lightning™ Cable 1.2m (47 inches)

OTG (Micro USB) Cable Adapter* 1.2m (47 inches)

Standard USB Host Cable 1.2m (47 inches)

This accessory is device powered. No batteries required. iPhone, iPad and iPod touch charging requires a standard USB power adapter, like the one included with your phone or tablet (so not included with StudioJack Mini).

*Android users only: The first batch of StudioJack Minis included a 3 inch OTG adapter for Android that attaches to the included standard USB cable. This solution works. Future StudioJack Minis will include a custom OTG (Android) cable. If you are an Android user who received a 3 inch OTG adapter, and would prefer the custom cable, please email support@sonomawireworks.com for details about how we may be able to help.

Compatibility

System Requirements

• Works with iPhone 7, iPhone 8, iPhone X, and iPad Pro 10 with Lightning Connectors (not iPad Pro 11-inch (1st generation) or later because Apple changed the connectors to USB-C for that product line in 2017, and not with any other iOS device with USB-C Connector - see possible USB-C iOS device workaround that is not guaranteed to work).. Originally Made for iPhone 6 Plus, iPhone 6, iPhone 5s, iPhone 5c, iPhone 5, iPad Air 2, iPad Air, iPad (4th generation), iPad mini 3, iPad mini 2, iPad mini, and iPod touch (5th generation), and still works with those devices.
  Allows you to use corded headphones with iPhone 7, iPhone 8, iPhone X (and earlier compatible devices), and charge while you play!
• Android™ with Samsung™ Professional Audio Technology (eg. Samsung Galaxy Note 4). Android Lollipop and Marshmallow compatibility is pending.
• Mac OS X®
• Windows®
• Audio software (by Sonoma or other companies) is required for recording and amp and effects processing (e.g. FourTrack, StudioTrack, GuitarTone™, GarageBand®, Logic®, etc.)
• Microphones: dynamic, electret, and battery powered condenser (microphone not included)

Compatibility is subject to change.
Email support with questions.

FAQs

StudioJack Mini Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is StudioJack Mini?
2. What are the differences between StudioJack Mini and GuitarJack Stage?
3. What are the differences between StudioJack Mini and GuitarJack Model 2?
4. What sets StudioJack Mini apart from other audio interfaces?
5. Can I adjust the input levels with StudioJack Mini?
6. Does StudioJack Mini require batteries or a power supply?
7. Does StudioJack Mini provide pass-through charging for mobile devices?
8. Can I use StudioJack Mini as the audio interface for my computer?
   Do I require any special drivers?
9. Where can I download an ASIO driver for StudioJack Mini?
   What are the best settings to use with StudioJack Mini's ASIO driver?
10. Where can I download firmware updates for StudioJack Mini?
    How do I update the firmware for StudioJack Mini?
11. What bit depths and sample rates does StudioJack Mini support?
12. Which DAWs are compatible with StudioJack Mini on Mac/Win?
13. Does StudioJack Mini work with RiffWorks Standard for Mac/Win?
14. Does Sonoma make iOS applications that work with StudioJack Mini?
    What other iOS applications work with StudioJack Mini?
15. Does Sonoma make Android applications that work with StudioJack Mini?
    What other Android applications work with StudioJack Mini?
16. Does StudioJack Mini support MIDI?
17. What is the latency for StudioJack Mini?
18. How do I get the lowest latency setting on Mac OS X?
19. How do I get the lowest latency setting on Windows
20. How do I get the lowest latency setting on iOS?
21. How do I get the lowest latency setting on Android?
22. What kind of microphones will work with StudioJack Mini?
23. Does StudioJack Mini provide phantom power?
24. What kind of audio cables do I need to use StudioJack Mini?
25. Can I plug in two mics at the same time?
26. Does StudioJack Mini work with expression pedals?
27. Can I use StudioJack Mini as a DI?
28. Can I connect the output of StudioJack Mini to the input of a guitar amp?
29. What is the warranty for StudioJack Mini?
30. What is the return policy for StudioJack Mini?
31. Where is StudioJack Mini manufactured?
32. Where can I purchase a StudioJack Mini? In USA? Internationally?
33. Are there any known issues for StudioJack Mini?
34. Something seems wrong with my StudioJack Mini. Who can I contact?
35. What are StudioJack Mini Technical Specifications?
36. What are StudioJack Mini Trademarks?

1. What is StudioJack Mini?
   
Record, practice, and play live anywhere with your computer or mobile device using popular audio recording, amps and effects software!

StudioJack Mini is a compact, multi-platform, device-powered, 24-bit audio interface with studio-quality sound. Includes a mono Hi-Z ¼ inch input for guitar or bass, stereo mic/line ¼ inch input for vocals or keyboards, two analog input level knobs with LED metering, a stereo ¼ inch output for headphones, plug-in power for electret microphones, and all the cables you need to plug into your compatible Mac, PC, iOS and Android system. The successor to GuitarJack Model 2, StudioJack Mini is a much improved version of the critically acclaimed GuitarJack line. For even more features, check out GuitarJack Stage.


2. What are the differences between GuitarJack Stage and StudioJack Mini?
   

   GuitarJack Stage is similar to StudioJack Mini, but there are some differences. StudioJack Mini has a ABS molded plastic housing and knurled aluminum knobs, whereas GuitarJack Stage has an aluminum chassis, metal input level knobs, metal switches, and plastic chicken head knobs. GuitarJack Stage adds an expression pedal jack to control wah, volume, or other effects; 2 line level ¼ inch outputs (left and right) for monitors/amps/mixer; 1 stereo ¼ inch output for headphones; 5 knobs, 4 foot switches, and 4 LEDs for controling MIDI enabled software; all encased in a rugged aluminum chassis.
   
   

3. What are the differences between StudioJack Mini and GuitarJack Model 2?
   

   GuitarJack Stage and StudioJack Mini are the successors to GuitarJack Model 2. They offer the same high quality audio designed by Joe Bryan, continue to be device powered, and are also made in the U.S.A. StudioJack Mini has an ABS molded plastic housing with knurled aluminum knobs - it is still rugged but less heavy than GuitarJack Model 2. GuitarJack Stage and StudioJack Mini offer major improvements over GuitarJack Model 2, including pass-through charging for iPhone/iPad/iPod touch; iOS/Android/Mac/Win compatibility; input level control knobs with LED metering; and an improved connection to iOS devices with a proprietary, detachable, sturdy Lightning™ cable connector that won't come loose. GuitarJack Stage has similar features to StudioJack Mini, but it adds an expression pedal jack to control wah, volume, or other effects; 2 line level ¼ inch outputs (left and right) for monitors/amps/mixer; 5 knobs, 4 foot switches, and 4 LEDs for controlling MIDI enabled software; all encased in a rugged aluminum chassis.
   
   

4. What sets StudioJack Mini apart from other audio interfaces?
   StudioJack Mini is a studio quality audio interface that can be used with either a high impedance instrument like a guitar, a line level instrument like a synthesizer, or a mic for input. It is more multi-platform than most interfaces as it can be used with compatible Mac, PC, iPad, iPhone, iPod touch, and Android devices. A proprietary, detachable, sturdy Lightning™ cable connector is included. Use a standard USB to micro-USB cable and power supply adapter with StudioJack Mini, and you can charge your iPhone, iPad or iPod touch (or reduce power consumption for compatible Android devices) while you play, so you don’t have to worry about battery life while performing or recording!
   
   Critically acclaimed as being “great sounding”, “top-of-the-line”, “better fidelity”, “a different kettle of fish from the other ones”, “very quiet with plenty of headroom, and not a hint of RF hum”, GuitarJack interfaces are the result of a partnership between renowned audio designer, Joe Bryan, known for the Universal Audio 2192 Master Digital Audio Interface, and Sonoma Wire Works. The instrument input is optimized for guitar with warm, mojo-infused tone, while the stereo mic/line input is ultra clean. Passionately designed 24-bit AD/DA converters move two channels in and out with clarity and vitality.
   
   The entire GuitarJack line is Made in the U.S.A. with mostly American made components. GuitarJack boards are built, and the units are assembled and tested in a factory in San Jose, California. The factory is 15 minutes from Sonoma Wire Works' office, which helps Sonoma keep a close eye on quality and testing.
   
   
5. Can I adjust the input levels with StudioJack Mini?
   Yes! StudioJack Mini features two analog input level knobs with LED metering, offering 60 dB of continuously variable gain (72 dB with 12 dB pad), allowing for fine level control. Observe the LED meters to prevent clipping and set gain level appropriately.
   
   
6. Does StudioJack Mini require batteries or a power supply?
   No, StudioJack Mini does not require batteries or a power supply. It is device powered entirely by your computer or mobile device. However, if you would like to charge your iOS device (or reduce power consumption of a compatible Android device) while using StudioJack Mini, simply add a standard USB to micro-USB cable and power supply adapter.
   
   
7. Does StudioJack Mini provide pass-through charging for mobile devices?
   Use a standard USB to micro-USB cable and power supply adapter with StudioJack Mini, and you can charge your iPhone, iPad or iPod touch while you play, so you don’t have to worry about battery life while performing or recording! Using an external power supply won’t charge an Android device, but it does reduce power consumption for compatible Android devices.
   
   
8. Can I use StudioJack Mini as the audio interface for my computer?
   Does it require any special drivers?
   Yes, you can use StudioJack Mini with Mac and Windows. StudioJack Mini does not require any special drivers, as it will work natively on both Mac (OSX 10.8, 10.9, 10.10, and 10.11) and Windows (7, 8, and 10) systems. For Windows users, if you prefer to use an ASIO driver, we recommend ASIO for All.
   
   
9. What are the best settings to use with StudioJack Mini’s ASIO driver?
   The lowest recommended setting for the ASIO driver (e.g. ASIO for All) is a buffer size of 256 samples with the USB streaming Mode set to Standard. Lower buffer settings and streaming modes are possible, but are highly dependent on your system configuration and the other drivers installed. If you would like the lowest possible latency, but are experiencing audio dropouts, contact support, and we can assist you with additional troubleshooting information. Buffer settings above 1024 are not recommended, and settings above 4096 are not supported by RiffWorks.
   
   
10. Where can I download firmware updates for StudioJack Mini?
    How do I update the firmware for StudioJack Mini?
    The firmware installed on all shipping StudioJack Minis is the most current. If a firmware update becomes available, we will update this FAQ, and provide the latest versions of the installer files for Mac OS and Windows. Information regarding possible future firmware updates for StudioJack Mini can be found here: http://www.sonomawireworks.com/downloads
    
    To update the firmware, once you have downloaded the update installer file from our website, connect StudioJack Mini to your computer using the included USB to micro-USB cable. Launch the installer file you downloaded, and follow the steps on screen. Make sure not to unplug your StudioJack Mini while the firmware installer is running.
    
    
11. What bit depths and sample rates does StudioJack Mini support?
    StudioJack Mini supports 16-bit and 24-bit, and can be run at either 44.1kHz or 48kHz sample rates. Why not 96kHz? The Codec (AD/DA) chip Sonoma uses for GuitarJack Stage and StudioJack Mini is 96kHz, however the USB controller chip, which we chose because it was capable of charging iOS devices, is bandwidth limited to 2 in - 2 out at 48kHz 24-bit. The practical need of charging far out-weighed the desire for 96kHz. Please take a listen to Sonoma's interfaces, which sound incredible compared to other devices. You can read what reviewers have to say about the preceding device, GuitarJack Model 2 sound quality, and listen to sound sample comparisons created by reviewers. Also compare the pricing and features to anything else on the market, and you'll find many aren't really designed to actually be mobile as they often require a power supply, and see how many interfaces you can find that offer GuitarJack Stage's feature set, the ability to charge, and are made in U.S.A.
    
    
12. Which DAWs are compatible with StudioJack Mini on Mac/Win?
    Because StudioJack Mini can be used as a system-wide audio interface for your Mac or PC, there’s no limit to the DAWs that will work with StudioJack Mini, as long as they support the same bit depths and sample rates.
    
    
13. Does StudioJack Mini work with RiffWorks Standard for Mac/Win?
    Yes. You can select StudioJack Mini as your audio interface when using RiffWorks Standard.
    
    
14. Does Sonoma make iOS applications that work with StudioJack Mini?
    What other iOS applications work with StudioJack Mini?
    Sonoma makes several iOS applications that are compatible with StudioJack Mini, including FourTrack, StudioTrack, and GuitarTone. Because StudioJack Mini works as a global audio interface for your iOS device, it is compatible with most iOS audio applications, including GarageBand, Multitrack DAW, and many others! Check the StudioJack Mini forum for apps that Sonoma and other users have found work well.
    
    
15. Does Sonoma make Android applications that work with StudioJack Mini?
    What other Android applications work with StudioJack Mini?
    StudioJack Mini was developed to work with Android devices that include Android with Samsung™ Professional Audio Technology (eg. Samsung Galaxy Note 4). Sonoma has not yet released our multitrack recording or amps and effects apps on Android because there is not a decent enough synchronized record and playback system on shipping Android devices, which is necessary for Sonoma’s high standards for multitrack recording and amps and effects processing. Lollipop latency wasn’t quite low enough, but we are hopeful that Marshmallow will offer a solution with low enough latency. Until then, feel free to experiment with StudioJack Mini on compatible Android devices, using third party software, and email your findings to support@sonomawireworks.com.
    
    
16. Does StudioJack Mini support MIDI?
    What MIDI messages does the StudioJack Mini send/receive?
    No. If you are interested in a Sonoma interface that supports MIDI, check out GuitarJack Stage.
    
    
17. What is the latency for StudioJack Mini?
    Latency is dependent on the USB audio implementation, drivers, operating system, host application, and buffer sizes used on your computer or host device. For more information on configuring your settings for lowest latency, see the appropriate guide information (below) related to your host device.
    
    
18. How do I get the lowest latency setting on Mac OS X?
    On OS X, latency is determined by the settings on your host application. In our tests, we found that 128 sample buffers will give you the lowest latency, and 256 sample buffers will provide the highest reliability.
    
    
19. How do I get the lowest latency setting on Windows?
    See the ASIO driver configuration panel to adjust your latency settings. You can get information about the ASIO driver for your StudioJack Mini here: http://www.sonomawireworks.com/downloads
    
    
20. How do I get the lowest latency setting on iOS?
    Latency is controlled purely by the application you are running. GuitarTone is designed to run around 15-20ms, depending on your iOS device.
    
    
21. How do I get the lowest latency setting on Android?
    Low latency is still in progress for Android. Some Lollipop devices can achieve latency less than 50ms, but Marshmallow is promising to improve this further. We will post a comprehensive list of devices we have tested in a forum post, as we learn more about this. More information may be found above in the Android FAQ.
    
    
22. What kind of microphones will work with StudioJack Mini?
    StudioJack Mini will work with any dynamic microphone, battery-powered condenser microphone, or electret microphone that requires up to 2V power. The mic input will also take a stereo signal, if you’re using a stereo mic like the Audio-Technica AT2022.
    
    
23. Does StudioJack Mini provide phantom power?
    StudioJack Mini provides 2V power--enough for an electret microphone.
    
    
24. What kind of audio cables do I need to use StudioJack Mini?
    All of the audio jacks on StudioJack Mini are ¼”, and all will take mono cables, except for the headphone jack, which requires a stereo connector. The MIC input will also take a stereo cable, as it will detect whether the input is mono or stereo.
    
    
25. Can I plug in two mics at the same time?
    Using Sonoma’s Dual Mic Breakout Cable (TRS to 2XLF Y Cable - 4 ft.), you can easily mic two sources at the same time! This custom, 4 foot cable features a 1/4 inch stereo (TRS) plug on one end, for connecting to the mic input of your GuitarJack Stage or StudioJack Mini, and two mono female XLR plugs on the other end (with 6 inch fan-out) so you can plug in two mics. Ideal for when you want to get a stereo recording, or record an amp and vocals, or even capture two vocals at once! The possibilities are endless!
    
    
26. Does StudioJack Mini work with expression pedals?
    No, StudioJack Mini does not work with expression pedals. If you are interested in a Sonoma interface that does work with expression, check out the GuitarJack Stage.
    
    
27. Can I use StudioJack Mini as a DI?
    Yes! StudioJack Mini features a mono Hi-Z ¼” input for use with your guitar or any other high impedance instrument, allowing you to use it as a direct box.
    
    
28. Can I connect the output of StudioJack Mini to the input of a guitar amp?
    Sure! You can always re-amp your signal by passing the output of your StudioJack Mini into the input of a guitar amp, but be mindful of your levels!
    
    
29. What is the warranty for StudioJack Mini?
    Here is the StudioJack Mini warranty information.
    
    
30. What is the return policy for StudioJack Mini?
    Here is the StudioJack Mini return policy information.
    
    
31. Where is StudioJack Mini manufactured?
    StudioJack Mini is Made in the U.S.A., manufactured in San Jose, California using quality components, which are mostly made in America. StudioJack Mini's boards are built, and the units were assembled and tested in a factory in San Jose, California. The factory is 15 minutes away from Sonoma's office, which helps Sonoma keep a close eye on quality and testing.
    Sonoma's Corporate Social & Environmental Responsibility Statement
    
    
32. Where can I purchase a StudioJack Mini? In USA? Internationally?
    Click here for StudioJack Mini dealer information.
    
    
33. Are there any known issues for StudioJack Mini?
    Only regarding USB-C iOS Devices. We don't have the adapters necessary to test StudioJack Mini with iOS devices that have a USB-C. We can only say SJM is compatible with the list that it was originally tested thoroughly with, and what is listed in the GJS compatibility list until we have the resources for further testing for this product. Feel free to give it a try if you'd like, and we'd love to hear your results.
    
    I can tell you what we heard from an iPad Air (USB-C) user who uses StudioJack Mini. We can't guarantee this solution as we have not tried it.
    
    He says, "The good news is the StudioJack Mini still works perfectly, but I have to plug it into a USB-C hub now :) ... I walk through my findings in the video: https://youtu.be/15ufiEqOHBE"
    His USB-C findings are at 7:25, 8:29 and especially 10:52 through 15 minutes.
    
    However, he had to purchase quite a few specific things. Sonoma hasn't tested this user's set up because we do not have the items he uses. Therefore I can't recommend this or guarantee that it works, but I can tell you the user's findings that you can see in his public video.
    
    My notes from his video: He used an Anchor Power Expand 8 in 1 hub that has USB 3.1 with gen 2 ports (blue), plus a different power supply than comes with the iPad that can deliver at least 45 watts, plus a different power cable than came with the iPad that can handle the power.
    
    If more issues appear, we will post issues here and in our support forums.
    
    
34. Something seems wrong with my StudioJack Mini. Who can I contact?
    If you are having difficulties with your StudioJack Mini, please contact Sonoma Support via email at support@sonomawireworks.com. Normal support hours are M-F from 10am-6pm PST, except holidays. Expect to receive a response from us within 24 hours.
    
    
35. What are StudioJack Mini Technical Specifications:
    
    

    Line/Headphone Output

    • Stereo 1/4 inch (6.5mm) output
    • Continuously variable gain
    • Supports USB volume & mute controls
    • Maximum output level (into 32 Ohms): 1.09 Vrms (34 mW)
    • Maximum output level (into 10 kOhms): 1.73 Vrms (+7.0 dBu)
      
      

    Line/Mic Inputs

    • Stereo 1/4 inch (6.5 mm) input
    • Continuously variable gain
    • Provides 3.3 V Plug-in Power for mono or stereo Electret Condenser microphones
      
      

    Instrument Input

    • Mono 1/4 inch (6.5 mm) input
    • Continuously variable gain
    • High-impedance instrument input
    • Discrete Class-A input buffer
      
      

    
    Materials

    • ABS molded plastic housing and knurled aluminum knobs

    
    StudioJack Mini Dimensions (Without Packaging and Cables)

    • Height: 1.19 in. (3 cm)
    • Width: 3 in. (7.7 cm)
    • Depth: 2.9 in. (7.3 cm)
    • Weight: 2.5 oz. (71 g)
      
      

    
    Packaging Dimensions (Including Cables)

    • Height: 8.56 in. (21.7 cm)
    • Width: 5.19 in. (13.2 cm)
    • Depth: 3 in. (7.6 cm)
    • Weight: 15 oz. (398g)
      
      

    Technical Specifications are subject to change.

    
    
    
36. Trademarks
    
    

    © 2016-2017 Sonoma Wire Works. GuitarJack and GuitarTone are a trademarks of Sonoma Wire Works. Apple, iPad, iPhone, iPod touch, Mac, the Mac logo, Mac OS, Retina, GarageBand, and Logic are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. iPad Air, iPad mini, and Lightning are trademarks of Apple Inc. iOS is a trademark or registered trademark of Cisco in the U.S. and other countries and is used under license. Android is a trademark of Google, Inc. Samsung is a trademark of Samsung in the United States or other countries. Windows and the Windows logo are trademarks of the Microsoft group of companies.

    "Made for iPod," "Made for iPhone," and "Made for iPad" mean that an electronic accessory has not been designed to connect specifically to iPod, iPhone, or iPad, respectively, and has been certified by the developer to meet Apple performance standards. Apple is not responsible for the operation of this device or its compliance with safety and regulatory standards. Please note that the use of this accessory with iPod, iPhone, or iPad may affect wireless performance.

    The Android robot is reproduced or modified from work created and shared by Google and used according to terms described in the Creative Commons 3.0 Attribution License.