GuitarJack 2 USB Guide

GuitarJack 2 USB Guide

Discontinued, please see the newer models: GuitarJack Stage and StudioJack Mini.

Quick Start

Mac OS
• Step 1 - Connect GuitarJack 2 USB to the included cable first, then to your Mac desktop or laptop computer.
• Step 2 - Open "System Preferences" and select "Sounds".
• Step 3 - Select "GuitarJack 2" as both your input and output device.
• Step 4 - In your DAW, make sure that GuitarJack 2 is set as your primary input and output device. This can usually be found in the Preferences/Audio menu of most DAWs.
• GarageBand - If you are using GuitarJack 2 USB with GarageBand, click on "GarageBand" in the top menu bar, and then "Preferences." Click on "Audio/MIDI" and under "Audio Output" select "GuitarJack 2" to make GuitarJack your input device. Under "Audio Input" select "GuitarJack 2" to make GuitarJack your output device.

Windows
• Step 1 - Connect GuitarJack 2 USB to the included cable first, then to your Windows desktop or laptop computer.
• Step 2 - Open the "Control Panel" and select "Sounds and Audio".
• Step 3 - Select the "Audio” tab and select GuitarJack 2 as both your sound playback device and sound recording device.
• Step 4 - In your DAW, make sure that GuitarJack 2 is set as your primary input and output device. This can usually be found in the Preferences/Audio menu of most DAWs.

iPad
• Connect GuitarJack 2 USB to the included cable first, then to either the Lightning to USB Camera Adapter for iPad 4 and iPad mini (and iPhone 5, 5c and 5S as of iOS 7) or the iPad Camera Connection Kit for the iPad 3, iPad 2 and iPad, depending on your device, then to your iPad. Apple Camera Connection Kits not included.
• Garageband for iPad - To use GuitarJack 2 USB with GarageBand, connect GuitarJack 2 USB to your iPad via the correct adapter mentioned above. In GarageBand, when using the Audio Recorder, Guitar Amp, or Sampler, you can select which input you'd like to use by tapping the Input Settings icon.

Android Mobile Devices
• Compatible Android devices are to be determined. Android compatibility requires low latency audio. When an Android device becomes compatible, you will be able to connect GuitarJack 2 USB to your device using the included Android USB to OTG cable.

GuitarJack Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is GuitarJack 2 USB?
2. Which devices and computers are compatible with GuitarJack 2 USB?
3. What are GuitarJack 2 USB's features?
4. What sets GuitarJack 2 USB apart from other audio interfaces?
5. Is GuitarJack 2 USB Made in America
6. What are the differences between GuitarJack Model 2 and GuitarJack 2 USB?
7. Can I adjust the input and output levels for GuitarJack 2 USB?
8. What are the best settings to use with GuitarJack 2 USB’s ASIO driver?
9. What is GuitarJack 2 USB's latency, and latency through GuitarJack 2 USB and whatever app is being used?
10. Can I connect the output of a GuitarJack 2 USB to the input of a guitar amp?
11. Does GuitarJack 2 USB require batteries?
    Can my device charge while using GuitarJack 2 USB?
12. Does Sonoma make any amp or pedal modeling software for FourTrack and GuitarJack 2 USB?
13. Which microphones and audio cables are recommended for use with GuitarJack 2 USB?
14. Is GuitarJack 2 USB 24-bit?
15. Where can I find GuitarJack 2 USB Images?
16. Is there a warranty for GuitarJack 2 USB?
17. What is the return policy for GuitarJack 2 USB?
18. Where can I purchase GuitarJack 2 USB? Is international shipping available?
19. Where can I find more information?
20. Any Known Issues?

1. What is GuitarJack 2 USB?
   GuitarJack 2 USB is replaced by GuitarJack Stage and StudioJack Mini). GuitarJack 2 USB was a portable audio I/O connects instruments, microphones headphones and more to your PC, Mac and select mobile devices. Featuring a 1/4 inch instrument input and a 1/8 inch stereo mic/line input and a pristine sounding 24-bit AD/DA converter. With rugged aluminum construction and premium components, GuitarJack 2 USB is a very high quality portable audio interface. Made in the U.S.A.

2. Which devices and computers are compatible with GuitarJack 2 USB?
   GuitarJack 2 USB works with Mac, PC and select mobile devices.
   
   Compatible with:
   
   • Mac OS 10.6, 10.7, 10.8 and 10.9
   • Windows XP, Windows 7* and Windows 8 (Email support@sonomawireworks.com to request the ASIO Driver for GuitarJack 2 USB (e.g. ASIO for All)
   • iPad 4, iPad mini (and iPhone 5, 5c and 5S as of iOS 7) using Apple's Lightning to USB Camera Adapter (not included)
   • iPad 3, iPad 2 and iPad using Apple's iPad Camera Connection Kit (not included)
   • Compatible Android devices are to be determined. Android compatibility requires low latency audio. When an Android device becomes compatible, you will be able to connect GuitarJack 2 USB to your device using the included Android USB to OTG cable.

   Looking for iPhone/iPad/iPod touch compatibility (Lightning and 30-pin)? See how GuitarJack 2 USB is different than GuitarJack Model 2 for iPhone/iPad/iPod touch.

3. What are GuitarJack 2 USB's features?
   • Studio quality sound from a 24-bit A/D and D/A converter with analog front end and digital circuitry designed by renowned audio designer, Joe Bryan, famous for his work on the UA 2192
   • 1/4 inch (6.5 mm) instrument input - nickel-plated, solid brass Switchcraft (10,000 MTBF) jack
   • 1/8 inch (3.5 mm) stereo mic/line input - (no phantom power is provided)
   • 1/8 inch (3.5 mm) stereo headphone/line output with increased drive for headphones provides incredible sound quality
   • Micro USB connector
   • Sleek and rugged aluminum shell
   • Device powered for ultimate portability - requires no batteries or power adapter
   • Input Modes:
     • Instrument (1/4 inch) - mono Hi-Z
     • Mic/Line (1/8 inch) - mono or stereo
   More Info: GuitarJack 2 USB Technical Specifications
   


4. What sets GuitarJack 2 USB apart from other audio interfaces?
   GuitarJack 2 USB is made in the U.S.A. by Sonoma Wire Works, who has experience creating award winning mobile and desktop recording solutions. GuitarJack 2 USB is compatible with Macs, PCs, iPads and iPhone 5s. Like GuitarJack Model 2 for iPhone, iPad and iPod touch, you get proven superior quality sound, designed by Joe Bryan, famous for his work for Universal Audio, including the UA 2192. GuitarJack 2 USB is a high end recording interface that is also affordable. GuitarJack 2 USB includes 24-bit AD/DA converters (many others only have AD with no out). GuitarJack's stereo line out offers incredible increased drive, with sound quality that is better than the iOS device out (many interfaces have no out). GuitarJack 2 USB offers stereo recording (many interfaces only do mono). Simplicity in design, highest quality audio for the price, more compact (fits in your pocket), more portable (designed to be mobile), more durable (people say you can run it over with a car, though we don't recommend it!).

5. Is GuitarJack 2 USB Made in America?
   Yes, GuitarJack 2 USB was Made in the U.S.A. from quality components like Switchcraft Jacks from Chicago, plating from Wisconsin, packaging from California, and several other American made ingredients. GuitarJack'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.
   
   GuitarJack 2 USB is no longer being made, as it has been replaced by GuitarJack Stage and StudioJack Mini, which are made in the U.S.A. in the same factory as all GuitarJacks have been.
   
   Sonoma's Corporate Social & Environmental Responsibility Statement.

6. What are the differences between GuitarJack Model 2 and GuitarJack 2 USB?
   • Compatibility:
     
     • GuitarJack 2 USB has a USB connector and is compatible with Mac, PC and select mobile devices, including:
       • Mac OS 10.6, 10.7, 10.8 and 10.9
       • Windows XP, Windows 7* and Windows 8
       • iPad 4, iPad mini (and iPhone 5, 5c and 5S as of iOS 7) using Apple's Lightning to USB Camera Adapter (not included).
       • iPad 3, iPad 2 and iPad using Apple's iPad Camera Connection Kit (not included).
       • Compatible Android devices are to be determined. Android compatibility requires low latency audio. When an Android device becomes compatible, you will be able to connect GuitarJack 2 USB to your device using the included Android USB to OTG cable.
     • GuitarJack Model 2 has a 30-pin dock connector and is compatible with iPhone 5, iPhone 5c, iPhone 5S, iPod touch (5th gen.), iPad mini and iPad 4 using Apple's Lightning to 30-pin Adapter (not included). Also compatible with iPad 3, iPad 2, iPad, iPhone 4S, iPhone 4, iPhone 3GS and iPod touch (3rd and 4th gen.) - CableJive dockXtender cable (not included) is recommended, especially for iPad 2 and iPad 3.
   • GuitarJack Model 2 can access the GuitarJack Model 2 Control Panel in in FourTrack and StudioTrack, where you can set the input levl and select a mode (1/4", 1/8" stereo, or 1/4" mono and 1/8" mono) before recording. You can configure GuitarJack Model 2 to record in stereo or simultaneously record vocals and an instrument simultaneously onto two separate tracks when used with apps like FourTrack and StudioTrack that support those features.
     GuitarJack 2 USB does not access the GuitarJack Model 2 Control Panel and does not have a Control Panel of its own. Instead, GuitarJack 2 USB input level is set using standard input level controls on mobile or desktop devices and/or select apps. GuitarJack 2 USB can record in stereo with its 1/8" input Recording can only be done using one input at a time with GuitarJack 2 USB.
   • GuitarJack 2 USB auto detects instruments: By default GuitarJack 2 USB is set to use the mic/line input. GuitarJack 2 USB auto detects instruments plugged into the 1/4" input, and goes to Hi-Z. GuitarJack Model 2 does not auto detect instruments, but can be configured using the GuitarJack Model 2 control panel.
   • GuitarJack 2 USB has a brushed finish; GuitarJack Model 2 has a shiny finish.
   • GuitarJack 2 USB does not retain the current settings and levels because these are now set independantly within select software that allows you to set the input level. GuitarJack Model 2 retains the settings the user sets in the GuitarJack Model 2 Control Panel in FourTrack, StudioTrack and GuitarTone and it remembers these settings, even when used with other apps.
   • GuitarJack 2 USB does not enable additional amps and effects in FourTrack, StudioTrack and GuitarTone like GuitarJack Model 2 does.
   
   
7. Can I adjust the input and output levels for GuitarJack 2 USB?
   GuitarJack 2 USB input and output levels are set using the level controls on mobile or desktop devices, or in select apps.
   • MacOS
     In Audio MIDI Setup
     1. In Finder, navigate to Applications/Utilities and launch the application Audio Midi Setup.
     1a. To view the Audio Devices window if it is not already open, go to: Window -> Show Audio Window
     2. In the lefthand view panel, select GuitarJack 2 USB. You now be see the input and output settings options for this device.
     3. Set the input and output levels to the desired level from within the panel. When you are finished, close out Audio MIDI Setup.
     
     In Menu Bar Volume
     (Note: To have menu bar access to this control, this setting must be turned on in the sound settings within System Preferences.)
     1. In the main OS menu bar (on righthand side at top of screen), right click on the speaker icon.
     2. From there, you can adjust your output levels for GuitarJack 2 USB.
     
     
   • iPad/iPhone (Note: All Sonoma apps have an interface control panel that works with GuitarJack 2 USB.)
     FourTrack
     Navigate to Song Tools (the gear icon) -> Interfaces
     -OR-
     Click on the guitar cable icon go navigate directly to the Interfaces panel.
     There you will be able to adjust your input and output levels for GuitarJack 2 USB.
     
     StudioTrack
     From within a session, click on the Song Tools menu (the guitar icon) and select Interfaces.
     There you will be able to adjust your input and output levels for GuitarJack 2 USB.
     
     GuitarTone
     Click on the Input menu by clicking on the guitar cable icon.
     There you will be able to adjust your input and output levels for GuitarJack 2 USB.
     
     GarageBand
     From either an Audio Recorder or Amp track, you will see a guitar cable icon in the upper lefthand corner of the individual track view.
     Click on that icon to access your input settings--you will be able to adjust your input levels for GuitarJack 2 USB in that window.
     Your output levels are adjustable by using the main volume controls on your device.
     
     
   • Windows 7/8 (10 TBD)
     Input Level Control
     1. In your file browser, navigate to C://Control Panel
     2. Select Hardware and Sound -> Sound--a menu window will open up.
     3. In the Sound window, select the Recording Tab, and choose 'Line (GuitarJack 2 USB)'. Then, click the 'Properties' button below--a menu window will open up.
     4. In the Properties window, select the Levels Tab. There you will be able to set your desired input levels for GuitarJack 2 USB.
     
     Output Level Control
     1. In your file browser, navigate to C://Control Panel
     2. Select Hardware and Sound -> Sound--a menu window will open up.
     3. In the Sound window, select the Playback Tab, and choose 'Speakers (GuitarJack 2 USB)' . Then, click the 'Properties' button below--a menu window will open up.
     4. In the Properties window, select the Levels Tab. There you will be able to set your desired output levels for GuitarJack 2 USB.
     -OR-
     1. Left click on the speaker icon in the bottom righthand corner of the desktop menu bar.
     2. A pop-up with a level slider will appear, allowing you to set your desired output levels for GuitarJack 2 USB. For more advanced audio options, select 'Mixer' from this pop-up.
     
     
   • Android
     TBD
     
   
   RiffWorks v2.6.7 for Mac and Windows does not yet include input controls for GuitarJack 2 USB, but Sonoma plans to add input controls to RiffWorks soon.
   
   
8. What are the best settings to use with GuitarJack 2 USB’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.
   
   
9. What is GuitarJack 2 USB's latency, and latency through GuitarJack 2 USB and whatever app is being used?
   GuitarJack 2 USB's hardware latency is 40 samples, which is less than 1 millisecond. The USB stack on each OS will add a variable amount of latency, usually around 150 samples. The total latency will be dictated by the buffer size in the app. Total latency under 20 milliseconds should be attainable on most platforms.
   
   On MacOS, the buffer size is set in each individual application settings. The smaller the buffer size setting the less lag you'll notice while playing. The trade off is that you'll use more processor power and may end up with clicks and pops while recording or during playback if you set it too small. If you set the buffer too high you'll notice lag. We've found that the best buffer size for the typical RiffWorks user is 256 samples but it depends on your app and interface. If you are having problems adjusting the buffer size in your app which can cause issues with latency, please email Email support@sonomawireworks.com, Let us know what OS you are running, what app you are using and what settings you have chosen for it so we can help you get the most out of your GuitarJack 2 USB.

10. Can I connect the output of GuitarJack 2 USB to the input of a guitar amp?
    Yes. Use a 1/8" stereo to dual male 1/4" cable. Plug one of the 1/4" jacks into the amp. Leave the other 1/4" plug hanging (unless you have a stereo amp). Since the output of GuitarJack is stereo, a mono cable will get the same signal on the tip and ground, so a mono cable won't work well.
    
    
11. Does GuitarJack require batteries?
    Can my mobile device charge while using GuitarJack?
    GuitarJack 2 USB is device-powered, so it requires no batteries. While you cannot charge your mobile device while GuitarJack is plugged in, we know you can use your iOS device for more than 8 hours with GuitarJack 2 USB. Sonoma has demoed GuitarJack with StudioTrack and GuitarTone at trade shows for more than 8 hours continuously before needing to recharge (screen brightness set to less than 30% optimizes battery life).
    
    
12. Does Sonoma make any amp or pedal modeling software for GuitarJack 2 USB?
    Yes, Sonoma makes the GuitarTone amps and effects iOs app, a standalone app and a Song Tool in StudioTrack (iPad). GuitarTone will soon feature Audiobus on iOS, so you can use GuitarTone in conjunction GarageBand and other Audiobus enabled iOS apps.
    
    
13. Which microphones and audio cables are recommended for use with GuitarJack 2 USB?
    GuitarJack 2 USB will work with any un-powered dynamic microphone, eg. Shure SM-57, SM-58, EV RE-20, Sennheiser MD-421, and more. An XLR to 1/4" cable or adapter will be required. A low-Z to hi-Z impedance adapter is NOT required. GuitarJack does NOT provide phantom power, but it can be used with mono or stereo battery powered condenser microphones. Sonoma Wire Works has tested GuitarJack with the following battery powered condenser mics:
    • Rode NT4 ($899 MSRP) - stereo XY condenser microphone with two externally biased 1/2 capsules with gold sputtered diaphragms. Phantom power or 9V battery operation. Doug Wright, Sonoma Wire Works' CEO, uses the Rode NT4.
    • AKG C1000S ($399 MSRP) - cardioid condenser microphone, great for mobile recording or live sound. Phantom or battery power.
    • Sony ECM719 ($89.99 MSRP) - one point stereo microphone.
    • Sony ECM-MS907 ($99.99 MSRP) - one-point MS stereo electret condensor mic with adjustable pickup angle.
    • More microphones listed in the GuitarJack Forum Microphone thread.

    GuitarJack 2 USB's 1/4" connector is unbalanced (TS) only. Mono microphones can be connected to the 1/4" connector, but the 1/4" connector will not have the boost mode that the 1/8" connector features. Some XLR-1/4" cables have impedance conversion built in or connect the wrong pins to the 1/4" cable.

    GuitarJack 2 USB's 1/8" connector is stereo unbalanced (TRS). It has >72dB of gain with boost mode enabled and the slider at max so you should be able to get plenty of signal level from your microphones. The best way to connect gear is using a Y cable for the type of connection you require so that you can connect the mic to the left or right depending on the situation, for example, we recommend the following depending on your needs:

    • 3.5mm Angled to (2) XLRF Adapter
    • Y Cable, 1/8" Angled TRS Male-Dual XLR Female
    • Y Cable, 1/8" TRS-Dual RCA Female
    • Y Adapter, 1/8" TRS Male-Dual 1/8" Female
    
    
14. Is GuitarJack 2 USB 24-bit?
    Yes. GuitarJack 2 USB includes a 24-bit AD/DA Converter.
    
    
15. Where can I find GuitarJack Images?
    GuitarJack Images
    
    
16. Is there a warranty for GuitarJack?
    Please see the GuitarJack Warranty page.
    
    
17. What is the return policy for GuitarJack?
    Please see the GuitarJack Return Policy page.
    
    
18. Where can I purchase GuitarJack? Is international shipping available?
    GuitarJack 2 USB has been discontinued. Please see the newer models: GuitarJack Stage and StudioJack Mini.
    
    
19. Where can I find more information?
    GuitarJack 2 USB Features, Detailed Technical Specifications, and more. Email support@sonomawireworks.com for any additional information.
    
    
20. Any Known Issues?
    iOS 7: Regarding apps like FourTrack and StudioTrack - In iOS 7 a user is presented with a popup when launching any app that uses the microphone. They have to give permission to the app to access the microphone. If you select "no" that app (FourTrack, StudioTrack, GuitarTone) cannot get input from the device. Even though it seems to only refer to the built in microphone, it really means ALL audio input including GuitarJack. To fix this, the user needs to launch the Settings App and go to Privacy - Microphone and then change the switch so it shows green.
    
    iPad: Plug the GuitarJack 2 USB into the cable first, then into the iPad. If you plug the cable into the iPad/iPhone/iPod touch first, then plug in the GuitarJack 2 USB, you will get the error message: "This device will not function because it uses too much power." If the message pops up, just unplug from the iOS device and replug and it should work fine.
    
    Windows 7: Using Windows 7 with GuitarJack 2 USB or other sound cards: While using the speakers button in the notification area of the taskbar to adjust your output volume, you may find it difficult to make the output volume level quiet enough without muting it entirely. Solution: To adjust the output volume, try using the volume control in the app you are playing from as well as the speakers button in the taskbar. If the app you are using doesn't include volume control, we don't recommend using GuitarJack 2 USB with that app.