Edirol UA-25 - User Manual

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UA-25

Audio/MIDI

Interface

TurboStart

www.RolandUS.com

Page 1

Welcome

Congratulations on your purchase of the Edirol

UA-25. This TurboStart contains step-by-step

instructions to help you get your UA-25 ready to use.

Before You Connect

Before you make any connections, there are a few

settings to make on the UA-25 itself.

1. Set the ADVANCED switch located on the back

of the UA-25 to ON.

2. Set the SAMPLE RATE Switch to 44.1.

Note: Don’t connect the UA-25 before installing the

UA-25 driver software on your PC or Mac, as

described below.

Note: The UA-25 supports sample rates other than

44.1 kHz. We’re using 44.1 kHz here for simplicitiy’s

sake.

Installing the UA-25 Driver on a

Windows XP Computer

1. Turn on your computer.

2. Insert the CD-ROM that came with your UA-25.

3. When the UA-25 window opens, click “Open

folder to view files,” and then click OK.

Note: If your computer isn’t set to automatically read

a CD-ROM when it’s inserted, you can go to the Start

menu, select My Computer, and then double-click the

UA-25 CD-ROM.

4. Double-click on the Driver folder.

5. Double-click on the XP2k folder.

6. Double-click on the SETUPINF file.

7. Connect the UA-25 to an open USB slot on your

computer using the provided USB cable.

Note: After a moment or two, the Found New

Hardware Wizard opens. On some computers you

may get a message, “Can Windows connect to

Windows update to search for software?” If you see

this message, click “No, not this time,” and then click

“Next.”

8. Select “Install from a list or specific location,” and

then click “Next.”

9. Click “Don’t search—I will choose the driver to

install,” and then click Next.

10. Confirm that “UA-25” shows in the models field,

and then click NEXT.

11. When you see, “Has not passed the Windows

Logo testing,” click “Continue Anyway.”

12. At the Insert Disk dialog box, click OK.

13. In the Files Needed Window’s “Copy files from”

area, you can type in the location of the UA-25

driver, or copy and paste its file path—usually

D:\Driver\XP2k—from Step 6 in the open

SetupINF window.

Note: If the SetupINF window isn’t visible behind the

Files Needed Window, move the Files Needed

Window out of the way so you can get to it.

14. After the Windows Logo test repeats—click

“Continue Anyway” again.

15. Once the install has completed, click “Finish.”

16. When the computer prompts you to restart,

reboot your computer.

Enabling the UA-25 for MIDI

in SONAR LE

1. Open SONAR LE.

2. When you get the message, “No MIDI Outputs

Selected,” click “Choose MIDI Outputs Now…”

3. Click “Options” in the tool bar.

4. Enable the Edirol drivers under "Inputs” by

clicking on them so they highlight in gray.

5. Enable the Edirol drivers for Outputs by clicking

on them so that they turn gray.

6. Click OK to close the MIDI devices window.

Note: You can also get to the MIDI Devices window

from the Options tab within SONAR LE.

Enabling the UA-25 for Audio

in SONAR LE

1. Open SONAR LE.

2. Click “Options” in the tool bar.

3. Select “Audio...” from the drop-down menu.

4. Click the Advanced tab—under “Driver Mode,”

select WDM/KS.

5. Click on the Drivers tab.

6. Enable the Edirol drivers under “Input Drivers” by

clicking on them so that they highlight in gray.

7. Enable the Edirol drivers for Output Drivers by

clicking on them so that they turn gray.

8. Click OK to close the Audio Options window.

9. You’ll get a message stating that the changes

will not be in effect until you restart the program.

Click OK, and then restart SONAR.

Need help?

Do you have a question about the Edirol UA-25 and is the answer not in the manual?

Summary

Windows XP Driver Installation

Prepare Windows XP for Driver Installation

Prepare your Windows XP computer by turning it on, inserting the driver CD, and opening the CD-ROM folder to view files.

Install UA-25 Driver Files on Windows XP

Navigate driver folders, connect the UA-25, and select the correct installation path for the driver.

Complete Windows Logo Testing and Restart

Complete Windows Logo testing prompts, finish the installation, and restart your computer for changes to take effect.

SONAR LE Configuration

Enable MIDI Devices in SONAR LE

Configure SONAR LE to recognize and use the UA-25 for MIDI input and output by selecting the Edirol drivers.

Enable Audio Devices in SONAR LE

Set up SONAR LE for audio playback and recording by selecting the UA-25 as the audio driver and choosing WDM/KS.

Mac OS;X Driver Installation

Download and Prepare Mac OS;X Driver

Prepare for Mac OS/X driver installation by disconnecting USB devices, downloading, and expanding the driver package.

Install and Configure Mac OS;X Driver

Proceed through installer prompts, authenticate with your password, and restart your Mac to complete driver installation.

iTunes Audio Setup

Configure Sound Output for iTunes

Connect the UA-25 and set it as the default audio output device in System Preferences for iTunes playback.

Summary

Windows XP Driver Installation

Prepare Windows XP for Driver Installation

Prepare your Windows XP computer by turning it on, inserting the driver CD, and opening the CD-ROM folder to view files.

Install UA-25 Driver Files on Windows XP

Navigate driver folders, connect the UA-25, and select the correct installation path for the driver.

Complete Windows Logo Testing and Restart

Complete Windows Logo testing prompts, finish the installation, and restart your computer for changes to take effect.

SONAR LE Configuration

Enable MIDI Devices in SONAR LE

Configure SONAR LE to recognize and use the UA-25 for MIDI input and output by selecting the Edirol drivers.

Enable Audio Devices in SONAR LE

Set up SONAR LE for audio playback and recording by selecting the UA-25 as the audio driver and choosing WDM/KS.

Mac OS;X Driver Installation

Download and Prepare Mac OS;X Driver

Prepare for Mac OS/X driver installation by disconnecting USB devices, downloading, and expanding the driver package.

Install and Configure Mac OS;X Driver

Proceed through installer prompts, authenticate with your password, and restart your Mac to complete driver installation.

iTunes Audio Setup

Configure Sound Output for iTunes

Connect the UA-25 and set it as the default audio output device in System Preferences for iTunes playback.

The Edirol UA-25 is a compact, high-quality audio and MIDI interface designed to provide a seamless connection between musical instruments, microphones, and a computer. It's engineered for musicians, producers, and audio enthusiasts who require reliable performance and excellent sound fidelity in a portable package. This device acts as a bridge, converting analog audio signals into digital data that your computer can process, and vice-versa, while also handling MIDI data for controlling software instruments or hardware synthesizers.

Function Description

At its core, the UA-25 serves as a versatile input/output hub for audio and MIDI. For audio, it features high-quality preamps that can accommodate a wide range of input sources, from dynamic and condenser microphones (with phantom power support) to line-level instruments like guitars, basses, and keyboards. The interface boasts robust analog-to-digital and digital-to-analog converters, ensuring that your recordings capture the nuances of your performance and that playback is clear and accurate. It supports various sample rates, allowing users to choose the appropriate quality for their projects, from standard CD quality to higher resolutions for professional applications.

Beyond audio, the UA-25 integrates MIDI input and output capabilities. This allows users to connect MIDI keyboards, controllers, or other MIDI-enabled devices to their computer, enabling the control of virtual instruments within a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) or the sequencing of external MIDI hardware. The MIDI functionality is crucial for modern music production workflows, where software synthesizers and samplers are commonplace.

The device is designed to be USB bus-powered, meaning it draws its operational power directly from the computer's USB port. This eliminates the need for an external power adapter, enhancing its portability and simplifying setup, especially in mobile recording environments. This feature is particularly beneficial for musicians on the go, allowing them to record and produce anywhere with just a laptop and the UA-25.

Usage Features

The UA-25 is built with user-friendliness in mind, offering intuitive controls and flexible connectivity options.

Input Flexibility: It typically includes combination input jacks that can accept both XLR (for microphones) and ¼-inch TRS/TS (for line-level instruments) connectors. This versatility means you don't need multiple adapters or cables for different sources. Dedicated input gain controls for each channel allow precise level adjustment, preventing clipping and ensuring optimal signal-to-noise ratio. A high-impedance (Hi-Z) switch is often available on one of the inputs, specifically designed for direct connection of electric guitars and basses, preserving their natural tone.
Output Options: For monitoring, the UA-25 usually provides ¼-inch TRS balanced outputs, which are ideal for connecting to studio monitors, offering a clean and robust signal path. A dedicated headphone output with its own volume control allows for private monitoring during recording or mixing sessions.
Direct Monitoring: A crucial feature for recording, direct monitoring allows the input signal to be routed directly to the headphones or main outputs before it goes through the computer. This eliminates latency (the delay between playing and hearing the sound) that can occur when monitoring through software, making recording much more comfortable and accurate for performers. A mix knob often allows blending between the direct input signal and the playback from the computer.
Control and Indicators: The front panel typically features various knobs and switches for controlling input gain, output volume, direct monitoring mix, and phantom power. LED indicators provide visual feedback on signal presence, clipping, and phantom power status, helping users quickly identify and troubleshoot potential issues.
Driver Support: The UA-25 relies on dedicated drivers for optimal performance with both Windows and macOS operating systems. These drivers ensure low-latency operation and compatibility with popular DAWs. Installation is generally straightforward, often involving running an installer and connecting the device. The manual emphasizes installing drivers before connecting the device to ensure proper recognition and functionality.
Advanced Settings: An "ADVANCED" switch on the device often unlocks additional features or modes, such as different driver modes (e.g., WDM/KS for Windows, which offers lower latency) or specific routing configurations. This allows users to tailor the interface's behavior to their specific needs and software environment.
Sample Rate Selection: A physical switch on the device allows users to select the desired sample rate (e.g., 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz, 96 kHz). This is important for matching the interface's settings to the project settings in your DAW, ensuring proper audio synchronization and quality.
Software Integration: The UA-25 is designed to integrate seamlessly with various DAWs, including bundled software like SONAR LE. The manual provides specific instructions for enabling the device's audio and MIDI capabilities within these applications, guiding users through driver selection, input/output assignment, and latency optimization.

Maintenance Features

While the UA-25 is a robust piece of equipment, proper care ensures its longevity and consistent performance.

Driver Updates: Keeping the device drivers updated is paramount. Manufacturers frequently release updated drivers to improve performance, enhance compatibility with new operating systems or software versions, and fix bugs. Users should regularly check the manufacturer's website for the latest driver releases.
Physical Care: The device should be kept in a clean, dry environment, away from extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, and excessive dust. Dust can accumulate in ports and vents, potentially affecting connectivity or internal components. A soft, dry cloth can be used for cleaning the exterior.
Cable Management: Using high-quality USB, audio, and MIDI cables is recommended. Poor-quality or damaged cables can lead to signal degradation, intermittent connections, or even device malfunction. Cables should be handled carefully, avoiding sharp bends or excessive pulling.
Port Protection: When not in use, it's advisable to keep the input/output ports covered if possible, or at least ensure the device is stored in a way that prevents dust and debris from entering the jacks.
Firmware Updates: Occasionally, manufacturers may release firmware updates for the device itself. These updates can improve functionality, add new features, or address hardware-level issues. The update process typically involves connecting the device to a computer and running a specific utility provided by the manufacturer.
Power Cycling: In case of minor glitches or connectivity issues, a simple power cycle (disconnecting and reconnecting the USB cable) can often resolve the problem.
Troubleshooting: The manual provides guidance on common issues, such as driver installation problems or audio configuration within DAWs. Familiarizing oneself with these troubleshooting steps can help resolve minor issues quickly without needing external support.

In summary, the Edirol UA-25 is a comprehensive and user-friendly audio/MIDI interface that empowers musicians and producers with high-quality recording and playback capabilities, robust MIDI control, and excellent portability, all while requiring minimal maintenance to ensure years of reliable service.

Edirol UA-25 Specifications

General

Type	Audio Interface
A/D Resolution	24-bit
Connectivity	USB
Phantom Power	Yes
Sample Rate	96 kHz
Bit Depth	24-bit
USB	USB 1.1
Driver	ASIO, WDM
Input Connectors	2 x XLR/TRS Combo
Output Connectors	2 x TRS
Channels	2 In / 2 Out