Plug and Play: Effortless Audio Setup with the PlayAUDIO1U

Usually, we dive into some fairly complex topics, but today, I want to keep it straightforward and bring us back to the basics. What happens when you have a brand new PlayAUDIO1U? How do you get it connected to your computer, route from your DAW to the interface, and then connect the interface to your soundboard? That's what we’re going to cover today. Let's get started.

Power Up Your PlayAUDIO1U

First things first, make sure your PlayAUDIO1U is powered on. Connect the included IEC cable to your interface and flip the power switch to the “on” position, and the unit will boot up, ready for action.

Connecting the PlayAUDIO1U to Your Computer

After powering up, it’s time to connect it to your computer. For those looking to set up a redundant configuration, connect two USB-C cables from your computers to the PlayAUDIO1U — one to the USB DAW A port and the other to the USB DAW B port. This setup is ideal for live performances, where having a backup computer ensures seamless audio continuity.

Configure Audio Settings in Your DAW

Once connected, open your DAW and select the PlayAUDIO1U as your audio interface. If you’re using Ableton, open Preferences and navigate to the Audio tab. Under “Audio Output Device” choose “PlayAUDIO1U” from the list of available interfaces.

Adjusting Sample Rate with Auracle

To adjust the Sample Rate on your PlayAUDIO1U you will need to download Auracle for X-Series. This will allow for customization of the Sample Rate and additional settings as needed.

In Auracle, open the “Audio” tab and adjust the Sample Rate at the bottom of the page.

Please note; for changes to the Sample Rate to take effect it will require you to restart the PlayAUDIO1U.

Next, set your Buffer Size and enable the outputs in your DAW based on the needs of your project, session or show. After configuring computer A, repeat the steps for computer B, ensuring identical settings on both machines. (e.g., Sample Rate = 96kHz | Buffer Size = 32 Samples | All Outputs Enabled)

Set Up Audio Routing in Your DAW

For audio routing, start by adding the necessary audio tracks in your DAW. For example, if you’re using all 12 outputs on the PlayAUDIO1U you can create 12 audio tracks for mono or 6 audio tracks for stereo:

You’ll notice that there are additional routing options beyond 12 but we want to hold those in reserve for setting up automatic failover. More on that in another video!

Duplicate this setup for computer B to maintain redundancy with identical routing configurations. This setup gives you control over each audio track's output, enabling clear and organized distribution across your PlayAUDIO1U.

Connect the Interface Directly to the Soundboard

With routing set up, you can now connect your PlayAUDIO1U directly to the soundboard. The PlayAUDIO1U’s 12 XLR outputs on the back panel enable a straightforward connection to a soundboard without the need for a direct box!

Using XLR Cables or an XLR Loom

To connect each output individually, use standard XLR cables. Alternatively, if you’re using multiple outputs, an XLR loom can keep the setup tidy by grouping cables together, making it easier to connect all outputs at once. Look for color-coded or numbered looms to quickly match each output to the appropriate soundboard input!

Straightforward Solutions

The PlayAUDIO1U provides powerful yet straightforward solutions for setting up robust and reliable audio. With its redundancy options, flexible routing, and direct connectivity to soundboards, the PlayAUDIO1U simplifies complex audio setups. Following these steps, you’ll have your PlayAUDIO1U fully integrated with your computer and soundboard, delivering high-quality, dependable audio!

For further insights and tips on maximizing the PlayAUDIO1U, check out our previous blog posts.

Have any questions we didn’t cover in this article? Check out our help center for more assistance!