AR-4i - Soundcard FOSTEX - Free user manual and instructions

Product Type	Audio interface (sound card) for recording and playback
Compatibility	iOS devices (iPhone, iPad) and computers with USB connectivity
Connectivity	Lightning connector and USB 2.0 port
Channel Count	4 input / 4 output channels
Sample Rate	Up to 96 kHz with 24-bit resolution
Analog Inputs	2 combo XLR-1/4" inputs with preamps
Analog Outputs	2 balanced 1/4" line outputs
Headphone Output	1/4" stereo headphone jack with dedicated volume control
Phantom Power	48V switchable per channel
Power Supply	Bus-powered via Lightning or USB connection
Dimensions (W x H x D)	170 mm x 45 mm x 120 mm
Weight	450 g
Main Functions	Multi-channel recording, playback, monitoring and mixing
Controls	Input gain knobs, master volume, monitor mix control
LED Indicators	Power, signal and clip status LEDs
Mounting Options	Desk stand or mounting holes for studio rack
Included Accessories	USB cable and user manual
Maintenance and Cleaning	Wipe the exterior with a soft, dry cloth; avoid liquids and solvents
Safety Precautions	Use the device in a dry environment; do not expose to rain or extreme temperatures
Spare Parts and Repairability	Contact qualified service center for repairs; no user-serviceable parts inside
General Information	Designed for mobile recording and production with Apple devices and computers

Frequently Asked Questions - AR-4i FOSTEX

How do I connect the Fostex AR-4i to my iPhone?

Connect the AR-4i to your iPhone using the Lightning cable or the built-in Lightning dock connector. Your device will automatically recognize it, and you can use compatible recording apps.

Does the AR-4i support 48V phantom power?

Yes, the AR-4i provides 48V phantom power for condenser microphones. It is switchable for each channel, allowing you to enable it only for channels that need it.

Can I use the AR-4i with a Windows or Mac computer?

Yes, the AR-4i can be connected to a computer via its USB 2.0 port. It is class-compliant, meaning you don't need to install additional drivers on Mac; on Windows, you may need the latest Fostex ASIO driver.

How many channels can I record simultaneously?

The AR-4i supports 4 input channels simultaneously at up to 24-bit/96 kHz resolution. This allows you to record multiple microphones and instruments at once.

Is there a headphone output for monitoring?

Yes, the AR-4i has a dedicated headphone output with its own volume control. You can monitor the live input signals without latency through your headphones.

How do I reduce latency when monitoring?

Use the direct monitoring function on the AR-4i. This routes the input signal directly to the headphone output, bypassing the computer, which minimizes latency during recording.

Can I connect external studio monitors to the AR-4i?

Yes, the AR-4i has balanced line outputs that can be connected to active studio monitors using 1/4" TRS cables.

What maintenance does the AR-4i require?

To keep the AR-4i in good condition, wipe the casing with a soft dry cloth and keep the connectors free of dust. Avoid using liquids or abrasive cleaners.

Is the AR-4i bus-powered?

Yes, the AR-4i is powered over the Lightning or USB connection, so it does not require an external power adapter. Make sure your device has sufficient battery charge.

Where can I find the latest drivers and manuals?

Visit the Fostex official website to download the latest drivers, firmware updates, and user manuals. Registration of your product may be required for firmware updates.

USER MANUAL AR-4i FOSTEX

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT OPEN

CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK,

DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK).

NO USER - SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE.

REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.

The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol, within an equilateral triangle, is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within the product’s enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute 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 appliance.

"WARNING"

"TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE."

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

1) Read these instructions.
2) Keep these instructions.
3) Heed all warnings.
4) Follow all instructions.
5) Do not use this apparatus near water.
6) Clean only with dry cloth.
7) Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
8) Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
9) 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 fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
10) Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
11) Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.

12) 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.

13) Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
14) 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.
15) Excessive sound pressure from earphones and headphones can cause hearing loss.

FCC (U.S.A.) & ICES-003 (Canada) INFORMATION

1. IMPORTANT NOTICE

This product, when installed as indicated in the instructions contained in this manual, meets FCC and ICES-003 requirements. Changes or modifications not expressly approved by Fostex Company for compliance could void the user's authority to operate the equipment. DO NOT MODIFY THIS PRODUCT.

2. IMPORTANT

In order to comply with FCC and ICES-003 requirements, use high quality shielded cables for connection to accessories and / or another products. If any cables are supplied with this product, they MUST be used. Follow all installation instructions. Failure to do so could void your FCC / ICES-003 authorization to use this product in the USA / Canada.

3. 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 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 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 receiver is connected.

• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

• Compliance with Part 15 of FCC Rules and Canadian ICES-003.

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, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that many cause undesired operation.

This Class B digital apparatus complies with Cana - dian ICES-003.

Thank you very much for purchasing the Fostex AR-4i audio interface unit for iPhone 4.

The AR-4i is the best solution to improve audio quality of iPhone video recording and streaming.

For details about iOS applications for the AR-4i, see the Fostex website (http://www.fostex.com).

: Be careful not to drop down the unit or the iPhone 4.

Fostex is not responsible for any damages of the unit or the iPhone 4 caused by dropping down.

Main features

• You can make high quality audio recordings in stereo by using the high-performance supplied microphones or external microphones.
  * Note that depending on the iOS application for the AR-4i, recording may be made in mono.
• You can control the audio input level.
• You can monitor the audio recording condition via LED metering as well as headphones.
• Tripod or mono pod ready vertically or horizontally for stable recording.

Supplied accessories

The following are supplied with the AR-4i.

• Microphones x 2
• AAA batteries x 2
• Mono pod x 1
• Pouch x 1
• Owner's manual (this manual) x 1

After purchasing the AR-4i, check that all accessories are included in the package.

Specifications

• Supplied power voltage for a plug in microphone: 2.5 V
  • USB power voltage: 5 V
• External dimensions: 70 (W) x 106 (H) x 50 (D) mm
• Weight: 200 g

* Specifications and appearance are subject to change without notice for product improvement.
* "Made for iPhone," means that an electronic accessory has been designed to connect specifically to iPhone, 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 iPhone may affect wireless performance.

* iPhone is a trademark of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.

Features and controls

① Dock connector

Used for setting the iPhone 4.

② [INPUT 2] jack (mini jack)

Connects the supplied microphone, a general plug-in powered microphone, or a line level source to this jack.

Using an iOS application, you can select stereo or mono recording. By default, this jack is for the left channel source of stereo recording.

③ Camera accessory shoe

Used for mounting a microphone for a camera.

④ [INPUT 1] jack (mini jack)

Connects the supplied microphone, a general plug-in powered microphone, or a line level source to this jack.

Using an iOS application, you can select stereo or mono recording. By default, this jack is for the right channel source of stereo recording.

⑤ LED indicators

Four LED indicators show the audio signal level as well as the unit's system status.

In the normal condition

According to the audio input level currently being received from the [INPUT 1] through [INPUT 3] jacks, the appropriate LEDs are lit.

• When the receiving signal is relatively low: The Level LED (low) is lit.
• When the receiving signal is relatively high: The Level LED (high) is lit.
• When the receiving signal is too high: The Peak LED is lit.

When the battery voltage is too low

The Peak LED flashes.

If a proper power supply is connected to the [DC-IN] jack, the LEDs returns to show the input audio condition as above.

When an error occurs

The Peak LED quickly flashes.

When the unit is recognized by the iPhone 4 The Link status LED is lit.

When the iPhone 4 audio is preferentially being output from the [PHONES] jack.

The Link status LED quickly flashes.

⑥ [INPUT VOL] control

Adjusts the audio input levels of the [INPUT 1] through [INPUT 3] jacks.

⑦ [PHONES VOL] control

Controls the monitor level of headphones connected to the [PHONES] jack.

⑧ Mounting holes for mono pod/tripod

Used for mounting the supplied mono pod or a tri-pod for a compact camera.

Two mounting holes are available on the bottom and the side panel. Use either hole according to whether the unit is used vertically or horizontally.

⑨ [INPUT 3] jack (mini jack)

Connects the supplied microphone, a general plug-in powered microphone, or a line level source to this jack.

Using an iOS application, you can select stereo or mono recording. By default, this jack is for the left channel source of stereo recording.

Note that when both the [INPUT 2] and [INPUT 3] jacks are connected to audio sources, the [INPUT 2] jack takes priority over the [INPUT 3] jack and the audio connected to the [INPUT 3] jack is disabled.

⑩ [DC IN] jack(mini USB port)

By connecting a external USB battery or personal computer using a USB cable, the unit receives external power.

The power received by the [DC IN] jack is used for the unit operation as well as iPhone 4 battery charge. (Note that the unit is not charged.)

⑪ [PHONES] jack

By connecting a stereo headphones, you can monitor the input signal, as well as playback audio of the iPhone 4.

⑫ Battery compartment

Press down and slide the cover off, and insert two AAA batteries in the correct direction.

This compartment also acts as a grip that serves for stable holding.

Declaration of EC Directive

This equipment is compatible with the EMC Directive (2004/108/EC) - Directive on approximation of member nation's ordinance concerning the electromagnetic compatibility and with the Low Voltage Directive (73/23/EEC) - Directive on approximation of member nation's ordinance concerning electric equipment designed to be used within the specified voltage range.

The Affect of Immunity on This Equipment

The affect of the European Specification EN61000-6-1 (coexistence of electromagnetic waves - common immunity specification) on this equipment are as shown below.

In the electrical fast transient/burst requirements, surge, conducted disturbances by radio-frequency fields, power frequency magnetic field, radiate electromagnetic field requirements and static electricity discharging environment, this could be affected by generation of noise in some cases.

FOSTEX DISTRIBUTORS LIST IN EUROPE

* Including non-EU countries (as of July 2011)

NAME: Mega Audio GmbH

ADD: Stromberger Str. 32, D-55411 Bingen, Germany

TEL: [phone], FAX: [phone]

NAME: General Audio

ADD: P. O. Box 22, FIN-02631 Espoo, Finland

TEL: [phone], FAX: [phone]

NAME: Sennheiser France

ADD: 128 bis, avenue Jean-Jaures, 94851 Ivry-sur-Seine Cedex,

France

TEL: [phone], FAX: [phone]

NAME: Mega Audio GmbH

ADD: Stromberger Str. 32, D-55411 Bingen, Germany

TEL: [phone], FAX: [phone]

NAME: Bon Studio S. A.

ADD: 6 Zaimi Street, Exarchia, 106.83 Athens, Greece

TEL: [phone], 606, 607, 608

FAX: [phone]

NAME: ATEC Hungary Kft

ADD: H-110/ Budapest, Fogado u. 3, Hungary

TEL: [phone], FAX: [phone]

NAME: I. D. elrf. electronic Ltd.

ADD: ARMULA 38 108 REYKJAVIK, ICELAND

TEL: [phone], FAX: [phone]

NAME: Proel S. p. A.

ADD: Zona Via Alla Ruenia, 37/43 64027 - Sant'Omero (Teramo), Italy

TEL: [phone], FAX: [phone]

NAME: IEMKE ROOS AUDIO B. V.

ADD: Kuiperbergweg 20, 1101 AG Amsterdam, The Netherlands

TEL: [phone], FAX: [phone]

NAME: Siv. Ing. Benum AS

ADD: P. O. Box 145, Vinderen, 0319 Oslo, Norway

TEL: [phone], FAX: [phone]

NAME: Mega Music Spolka z o.o

ADD: Ul. Lesna 15, 81-876 Sopot, Poland

TEL: [phone], FAX: [phone]

NAME: Letusa S. A.

ADD: C/Laguna 10, 28923 Alcorcon, Madrid, Spain

TEL: [phone], FAX: [phone]

NAME: Benum Nordic A/S

ADD: Aldermansvagen 17, 171 48 Solna, Sweden

TEL: [phone]

NAME: Audio Bauer Pro AG

ADD: Bernerstrasse-Nord 182, CH-8064 Zurich, Switzerland

TEL: [phone], FAX: [phone]

NAME: SCV London

ADD: 40 Chigwell Lane, Oakwood Hill Industrial Estate, Loughton, Essex IG10 3NY U. K.

TEL: [phone], FAX: [phone]