ALABS FXCASTER Prodcast Workstaation User Manual
- June 14, 2024
- ALABS
Table of Contents
Alabs Fxcaster Podcast Workstation
Owner’’s Manual
FXCASTER Prodcast Workstaation
The above warning is located on the rear of the unit.
Explanation of Graphical Symbols
The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol within an equilateral triangle is
intended 1o alert the user to the presence of uninsulated “dangerous voltage”
within the product’s enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to
consitute a risk of electric shock to persons.
The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the
user to the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing)
instructions in the literature accompanying the product.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
- Read these instructions.
- Keep these instructions.
- Heed all warnings.
- Follow all instructions.
- Do not use this apparatus near water.
- Clean only with dry cloth.
- Do not block any ventiation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
- Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not it into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
- Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
- Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
- Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by the manufacturer, or sold with the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury from tip-over.
- Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
- Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.
WARNING:TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOTEXPOSE THIS
APPARATUS TO RAIN OR MOISTURE. (UL60065_03)
FCC INFORMATION (For US Customers)
NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits
for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These
limits are designed o provide reasonable protection against harmful
interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates uses and
can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in
accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio
communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not
occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful
interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by
tuming the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the
interference by one o more of the following measures:
- Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
- Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
- Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
- Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for
compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to
the following two conditions:
- this device may not cause harmiul interference, and
- this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation
Overview
The Fxcaster boasts an array of connectivity options. lts two combination XLR
and 1/4″ inputs allow for versatile connections with microphones, instruments,
and line-level devices. The onboard preamps offer an impressive 50dB of gain,
ensuring compativilty with a variety of broadcast microphones. Additionally,
the 3 TRRS podout jacks enable analog signal output to three smartphones for
podcasting, while the USB-C jack allows seamless connectivity to laptops or
smartphones for live streaming. The builtin loopback function enables
simultaneous playback of tracks and live streaming, while the high-output
headphone jack and stereo 1/4″ main out jack offer convenient monitoring
options.
The Fxcaster delivers all the necessary audio functions for streaming games,
tutorials, podcasts, and screencasts in a compact and user-friendly package.
It features three types of reverb, two types of delay, and various pitch
effects such as robot, male, female, doll, and autotune effects. Additionally,
it offers a 3-band EQ, de-noise, volume shaper, and karaoke mode to enhance
your live stream. Also helpful are the mute and Solo buttons for 4 fader
channel, which affect either all of the output channels or an individual one
(e.g. stream channel or voice chat only), and a trashtalk bution to censor any
profanity or “offensive” words.
The Alabs Fxcaster is equipped with a digital streaming mixer featuring seven
audio channels and seven physical faders, ensuring intuitive control over
volume levels during live transmissions. The inputs and outputs can be easily
adjusted, and mutable sliders simplify the leveling process. The onboard color
LED display allows for peak tracking and visual monitoring.
With four bands available for the eight smart sample pads, the Fxcaster offers
a total of 32 programmable pads. By inserting a TF card, you can customize
your frequently used sound effects or functions, replacing the samples on the
TF card, The Fxcaster also allows you to record all the signals from the
device to the pads of Bank A, B, and C. Each pad supports real-ime recording
of up to 20 seconds. Moreover, a dedicated sample fader provides instant
control over each sample sound source. The Fxcaster supports BT wireless
connectivity, allowing you to play tracks directly into your show.
For podcasters on the go, the Fxcaster is the perfect solution as it features
a builtin battery, eliminating the need for additional power adapters and the
hassle of finding a power source. The built-in 3000mAh lithium battery ensures
over six hours of operation. Additionally, the Fxcaster functions as a
recorder, capturing both the input and output signals of the entire program
onto the TF card. This feature is convenient for audio and video separation
recording and post-editing processing.
Regardless of your skill or experience level, the Alabs Fxcaster empowers you
to achieve professionallevel sound effortlessly. Whether you’re livestreaming,
gaming, or creating engaging content, the Fxcaster seamlessly fits into any
setup. For more information, please visit
www.alabsaudio.com.
- All-in-One Audio Interface: The Fxcaster is a versatile audio interface for livestreaming, video creation, and podcasting, compatible with Windows, Mac, Android, and (S,
- Versatile Connectivity and Wide Compatibiity: Connect microphones, instruments, and line-level devices with XLR and 1/4″ inputs. With its onboard preamps delivering 50dB of gain, it is compatile with various broadcast microphones. It also features 3 TRRS podout jacks for analog signal output to three smartphones for podcasting, and a USB-C jack for connectivity to laptops or smartphones for live streaming.
- Powerful Audio Processing: The Fxcaster integrates an onboard sampler and effects section, providing a wide range of vocal FX and functions. It includes three types of reverb, two types of delay, and various pitch effects such as robot, male, female, doll, and autotune effects. Additionally, it features a 3-band EQ, de-noise, volume shaper, and karaoke mode to enhance your live stream. Mute and solo buttons for 4 fader channels allow control over output channels, and a trashtalk bution enables censorship of profanity or offensive words.
- Sample Pad Functionality: Take advantage of the Fxcaster’s four bands and eight smart sample pads, offering a total of 32 programmable pads. Customize your sound effects or functions by inserting a TF card, and record signals onto the pads for real-time playback. Each pad supports recording of up to 20 seconds, allowing you to capture and trigger short audio snippets. The dedicated sample fader provides instant control over each sample sound source.
- Seven-Channel Digital Mixing and Intuitive Operation: The digital streaming mixer features seven audio channels and physical faders for intuitive volume control during live transmissions. The onboard color LED display allows for peak tracking, and the mutable sliders simplify the leveling process.
- Portability and Long Battery Life: With its built-in battery, the Fxcaster is perfect for podcasting on the go. The built-in 3000mA lithium battery ensures over six hours of operation. Additionally, the Fxcaster functions as a recorder, capturing both the input and output signals of the entire program onto a TF card.
Supplied Items
- Fxcaster
- USB-A to USB-C adaptor
- USB-A to USB-C cable
- “1/8” stereo cable
- “1/8” TRRS cable
- 1GB TF card
Panel Layout
-
IN1 Fader: Adjusts the gain of IN1 channel. The maximum gain is 50dB.
-
IN1 Mute Button: Press to mute IN1 channel. The orange light indicates it is muted. Press again to unmute.
-
IN1 Solo Button: Press to solo IN channel, muting all other channels. The red light indicates it is soloed. Press again to cancel the solo mode.
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IN2 Fader: Adjusts the gain of IN2 channel. The maximum gain is 50dB.
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IN2 Mute Button: Press to mute IN2 channel. The orange light indicates it is muted. Press again to unmute.
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IN2 Solo Button: Press to solo IN2 channel, muting all other channels. The red light indicates it is soloed. Press again to cancel the solo mode.
-
MUSIC Fader: Adjusts the volume of music sources, including BT wireless input, Aux input, and USB Audio input.
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MUSIC Mute Bution: Press to mute music sources, including BT wireless input, Aux input, and USB Audio input. The orange light indicates it is muted. Press again to unmute.
-
MUSIC Solo Button: Press to solo music sources, including BT wireless input, Aux input, and USB Audio input, muting all other channels. The red light indicates its soloed. Press again to cancel the solo mode.
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Headphone Fader: Adjusts the volume of headphone output.
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Headphone Mute Button: Press to mute headphone. The orange light indicates itis muted. Press again to unmute.
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Headphone Solo Button: Press to solo headphone, muting all other channels. The red light indicates it is soloed. Press again to cancel the solo mode.
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REC Fader: Adjusts the recording level of TF card record
Notes: The REC Fader specifcall adjusts the recording level for TF card record. I does not affect the recording lovels for Podout or USB Audio. -
OUT Fader: Controls the level of the MAIN OUT. The L and R output will be controlled by OUT Fader in the same time.
-
SAMPLE Fader: Adjusts the output level of the sample pads and the ‘beep’ effect of TRASH TALK.
-
REC Button: Press the REC Button to start recording to the TF card. The red light will turn on and flash to indicate that recording is in progress. During recording, both the input and output signals from the Fxcaster will be captured and saved as MP3 files on the TF card.
Notes: 1. The REC function is only available when a TF card i insarted into the Fxcaster. If no TF dard i detected, the REC function cannot be activated. Please ensure a TF card is properly inserted before attempting to use the recording feature.
2. The maximum recording time is determined by the available storage space on the TF card. If thero is insuffcient storage space (o store the file, th recording will automatically stop.
3. The files recorded will be saved i the “REC” folder of the TF card. Each file will be named RECO1.mp3, REC02.mp3, and so on, in sequential order. -
STOP Button: Press the STOP Button to stop TF card recording. The red light will illuminate during the file-saving process to the TF card. Once the saving process is complete, the red light will tum off. The recorded files will be named as RECO1.mp3, REC02.mp3, and so on, in sequential order, with the “.mp3” file extension.
-
48V Button: Press the 48V Bution to activate the phantom power for IN1 and IN2. This feature provides the necessary power to drive condenser microphones connected via XLR cables.
Notes: Please ensure that your microphone requires phantom power before activating the 48V
Button. Using phantom power with a microphone that does not require it, such as a dynamic ‘microphone, can potentially damage the microphone. -
BASS Knob: Use this knob to adjust the bass level of IN1 and IN2.
It operates at a frequency of 200Hz, with a range of +10dB. -
MID Knob: Use this knob to adjust the middle level of IN1 and IN2. It operates ata frequency of 2kHz, with a range of ± 10dB.
-
TREBLE Knob: Use this knob to adjust the treble level of IN1 and IN2.It operates ata frequency of 10kHz, with a range of ± 10dB.
-
AUTO TUNE Light: This light indicates the pitch mode of the AUTO TUNE effect, which includes 12 keys from C to B. The AUTO TUNE effect automatically tunes your voice while you are singing, correcting any pitch_deviations from the selected key. The AUTO TUNE Light is controlled by the AUTO TUNE button, and the orange light will indicate the currently selected key.
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IN1&IN2 Level Meter: These meters indicate the current input level of IN1 and IN2. When the meter shows red, it indicates that the input signal s too loud. To prevent distortion, adjust the IN1 and IN2 faders to decrease the input level until the meter falls within the acceptable range.
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OUTPUT Meter: This meter displays the current output level of the Fxcaster, representing the combined level of all output signals.. The meter will not be controlled by OUT fader of HEADPHONE fader.
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BATTERY Meter: This meter displays the remaining power level of the built-in battery. As the battery power decreases, the LEDs on the meter wil gradually tum off. When only one LED is left illuminated, it indicates that the battery is low and needs to be recharged. To recharge the battery, connect the USB-C cable to the Fxcaster.
-
BT LED: The BT LED indicates the status of the BT wireless connection. When the LED is flashing, it means that the BT is not connected. To establish a connection, search for “FXCASTER” on your device (smartphone, laptop, etc.) and pair with it. Once the pairing is successful, the LED will remain steadily it\
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REVERB Button: The REVERB button allows you to engage or disengage the reverb effect. Press and hold the button for 1.5 seconds to tur on the effect, indicated by the button light turning on. Once the Reverb is engaged, you can press the REVERB button to cycle through three different reverb types: ROOM, HALL, and CHUNCH. The LED will indicate the currently selected reverb type. To tum off the effect, press and hold the button for 1.5 seconds, and the button light will turn off. The effect will be applied to IN1 and IN2 channels.
-
DELAY Button: The DELAY button allows you to engage or disengage the delay effect. Press and hold the button for 1.5 seconds to turn on the effect, indicated by the button light turning on. Once the delay is engaged, you can press the DELAY bution to cycle through two different delay types: ECHO and TAPE. The LED will indicate the currently selected delay type. To tumn off the effect, press and hold the button for 1.5 seconds, and the button light will turn off. The effect will be applied to IN1 and IN2 channels.
-
AUTO TUNE Button: Press and hold 1.55 to engage the auto-tune effect, indicated by the button light turning on. Once the AUTO TUNE is engaged, you can press the AUTO TUNE button to cycle through 12 different key from C to B to match the track with you voice. The AUTO TUNE light above will indicates the current key you selected. To tum off the effect, press and hold the button for 1.5 seconds, and the button light will turn off. The effect will be applied to IN1 and IN2 channels.
-
LOOP BACK Bution: Press the LOOP BACK button to toggle the loop back function on or off. When the loop back is enabled, the USB AUDIO INPUT, AUX INPUT, and BT INPUT signals will be looped back to the USB AUDIO OUTPUT and POD OUT 1-3. This feature is particularly useful for podcasting and live streaming scenarios, allowing_ you to play music or other audio from your connected device (such as a PC, Mac, iOS, or Android device) and have your audience hear the tracks. The loop back function also applies 1o the BT INPUT and AUX INPUT. If you do not want your audience to hear the audio from your computer or smartphone, simply tum off the LOOP BACK function.
Notes: that the loop back function doos not affect the HEADPHONE OUT and MAIN OUT, moaning that it will not impact your monitoring solup. -
VOCAL FX Button: The VOCAL FX button allows you to engage or disengage the pitch effect. Press and hold the button for 1.5 seconds to tum on the effect, indicated by the button light turning on. Once the VOCAL FX is engaged, you can press the VOCAL FX button to cycle through four different pitch types: ROBOT, MALE, FEMALE and DOLL. The LED will indicate the currently selected type. To turn off the effect, press and hold the button for 1.5 seconds, and the button light will turn off. The effect will be applied to IN1 and IN2 channels.
Notes: When the VOCAL FX is tured on, the REVERB, DELAY, and AUTO TUNE offects will be automaically disabled. -
VOLUME SHAPER Button: Press the VOLUME SHAPER button to toggle the volume ducking function on or off. The VOLUME SHAPER effect is designed to automatically control the audio volume during media playback, making it easy to create smooth transition effects and implement ducking. When an input signal is detected, the effect will reduce the volume of the music playback. Once there is no input signal, the playback volume will return to its original level. This effect is applied to the IN1 and IN2 channels.
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DENOISE Button: Press the DENOISE button to toggle the noise gate effect on or off. When the DENOISE is enabled, the effect will be applied to the IN1 and IN2 channels, reducing unwanted background noise.
-
KARAOKE Bution: Press the KARAOKE button to toggle the vocal removal effect on or off. When the KARAOKE is enabled, it will remove the vocals from the tracks. The effect will be applied to the USB AUDIO INPUT, AUX INPUT, and BT INPUT channels.
Notes: When you finish recording and want (o check the file, please remember (o tum of the KARAOKE effect. Otherwise, it will remove the vocals from your recording file as well -
SAMPLE PADS: The SAMPLE PADS consist of 8 pads in different colors. You can choose between different banks: Bank A, Bank B, Bank C, and the TF CARD Bank
When using the TF CARD Bank, there are preloaded samples on the TF card. Simply press the pads to play the samples. The playback will automatically stop after completion. Pressing the pad being used will stop the playback. You can also replace the sample files o the TF card by connecting it to your computer.
When using Banks A-C, you can record audio as a sample file. Hold the pad where you want to record the sample for 3 seconds until the pad starts flashing, indicating that recording has started. Al input signals, including IN1, IN2, BT INPUT, AUX INPUT, and USB AUDIO INPUT, will be recorded. The maximum recording time is 20 seconds, after which recording will automatically stop. To manually stop the recording before reaching 20 seconds, press the pad that is currently recording. The recording will finish, and the pad will stop flashing. Pressing the pad will play the recorded sample, and pressing it again will stop the playback -
BANK Button: To select the bank for the sample pads, use the BANK button. Press the A, B, or C buttons to choose between Bank A, Bank B, or Bank C, respectively. The corresponding LED will indicate the active bank. To switch to the TF Card Bank, press the button that currently has its LED on, and the LED will tum off, indicating the use of the TF Card Bank. This allows you to access different sets of samples assigned to each bank for your creative use.
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TRASH TALK Button: While holding the button, a “Beep” sound will be generated, and all the inputs and outputs will be muted. As soon as you release the button, the previous state will be restored, and the inputs and outputs wil retun to their normal functionality. This feature allows for quick and convenient muting of all audio signals during specific moments or transitions.
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Power: Control the on/off state of Fxcaster.
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MAIN OUT: 1/4″ TS jacks for connecting active speakers or amplifier to monitoring the audio from Fxcaster. L is main output for left channel, R is the right channel
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USB: The USB port on Fxcaster is a versatile USB Type C jack. It enables USB audio input and output with your PC, MAC, iOS, or Android device. It also functions as a charging port for the builtin battery of Fxcaster. It is recommended to use this USB port for recording, podcasting, or live streaming purposes.
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TF CARD Port: For connecting TF card.
Notes: Fxcaster only supports TF card format of FATS2 and NIFS. Please format your TF card and change |t to the fornat of FAT32 and NIFS if it can not be recognized 1t s racommended to use the official TF card that comes with the Fucaster -
POD OUT 1-3: These are 1/8″ TRRS output jacks designed for connecting smartphones (some smartphones may require an adapter) for podcasting or live streaming purposes. You can connect up o three smartphones simultaneously using these POD OUT jacks, allowing for multiple participants in your podcast The 1/8″ TRRS cable required for this connection is included in the package.
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AUX IN: This is a 1/8″ TRS stereo input jack that allows you to connect a ‘smartphone or computer o play audio tracks. Simply plug in your device using a compatible cable and you can easily incorporate extemal audio into your recordings or live performances.
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HEADPHONE OUT: The 1/8″ TRS stereo output jack on Fxcaster is designed for connecting headphones, allowing you to monitor the audio directly from the device .
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IN2: “1/4″ TRSIXLR combo jack for connecting input device, such as a microphone, piano, guitar, bass, or other musical instrument
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IN1: “1/4” TRSIXLR combo jack for connecting input device, such as a microphone, piano, guitar, bass, or other musical instrument.
Setup Guide
-
Connection Diagram
-
Setting up your mics and instrument
Once you have your microphones or instruments connected to Fxcaster, you need 1o set up the gain of inputs. Setting the appropriate gain level is crucial for different equipment to ensure optimal audio quality. To adjust the gain of a channel, use the IN fader and increase it until the input meter displays at least 3 green LEDs. This ensures that the signal is strong
enough to be heard by your audience. However, be cautious ot to set the gain too high, as it can lead to distortion, indicated by the meter showing red. If you are using a condenser microphone, remember to activate the 48V phantom power to provide the necessary voltage for the microphone to operate correctly. -
Set up your headphone and speakers
Once you have your headphone and active speakers connected to Fxcaster, you need to set up the volume of output. The HEADPHONE fader on Fxcaster allows you to control the output volume of your headphone. The volume level is influenced by the impedance of the headphones themselves as well as the INPUT GAIN settings of IN1 and IN2. If you find that the headphone output volume is too low, first try turning up the HEADPHONE fader to increase the volume output. Additionally, check the gain settings of IN1 and IN2 to ensure they are appropriately adjusted Lastly, don’t forget to also adjust the MUSIC fader, as it can impact the tracks(backing music) output volume as wel.
Connects the active speakers to the MAIN OUT of Fxcaster. Use the OUT fader to control the output to your speakers.
If you find that the MAIN OUT volume is too low, frst try turning up the OUT fader to increase the volume output. Additionally, check the gain settings of IN1 and IN2 to ensure they are appropriately adjusted.
Lastly, don’t forget to also adjust the MUSIC fader, as it can impact the tracks(backing music) output volume as well.
NOTES: The HEADPHONE fader and OUT fader control the hardware output volume, it will not affect the output volume of podcasting and streaming(software output). To adjust the software output volume, check the gain settings of IN1 and IN2 and the volume of any backing music or audio tracks being played. 12
FCC STATEMENT
-
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
(1) This device may not cause harmful interference.
(2) This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. -
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules, These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications, However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the
interference by one or more of the following measures:
- Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
- Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
- Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the
- Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
RF warning statement
The device has been evaluated to meet general RF exposurerequirement, The
device can be used in portable exposure condition without restriction.
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