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Centro 2i2o
Audio Interface
DO NOT IMMEDIATELY CONNECT THE DEVICE TO
YOUR COMPUTER. To ensure proper operation,
download the firmware first.
User Manual
The informaton shown in this user manual is subject to change without further notice.
Version:
1.0
Date of creation and author's initials:
24-10-2019 RV
Date of revision and author's initials: -
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Introduction
Thank you for purchasing the Devine Centro 2i2o Audio Interface. This external sound card
takes over the sound signal from your on-board sound card and can be used to record
vocals and instruments, play sound via professional audio equipment and more. Due to the
use of high quality components, this audio interface is well-suited for recording, editing,
and monitoring audio recordings.
We advise that you read this user manual in its entirety before unpacking the contents of
the box, so that you are familiar with all of the functionality that this product has to offer.
Please be sure to check that all of the parts and accessories listed below under 'Box
contents' are included in the package. In the event that the Centro 2i2o Audio Interface
does not function properly, or if you have any issues while operating it, please remove the
plug from the power socket and contact your retailer for assistance.
Box contents:
- Devine Centro 2i2o Audio Interface
- USB Cable
- Voucher for Bitwig 8-Track DAW Software
Please inspect the device and the included accessories.
Should you discover that either the device or one or more of the included parts have been
damaged or rendered defective while in transit, please contact your retailer directly.
Please note that the pictures in this user manual serve illustrative purposes only and may
differ from the actual product.
The informaton shown in this user manual is subject to change without further notice.
Version:
1.0
Date of creation and author's initials:
24-10-2019 RV
Date of revision and author's initials: -
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Downloading Firmware
First download and install the latest firmware before you connect the audio interface to
your computer. The firmware consists of interface management software and a driver that
optimises sound quality.
To download the firmware, an internet connection is required. Admin rights may be required
to install the firmware. It’s possible your firewall or anti-virus software notifies you you’re
attempting to install a file by an unknown publisher.
Because the latest firmware version may be subject to change, no firmware has been
physically added to the box’ contents.
The latest firmware version can be download via:
http://www.devine-sound.com/centro-software
Contact:
Devine pro audio products
Verrijn Stuartweg 18
4462 GE Goes
The Netherlands
Please do not send any products to this correspondence address.
Should you wish to send in a product for repairs or for a refund, please contact your dealer
for an RMA request (Return Merchandise Authorisation).
The informaton shown in this user manual is subject to change without further notice.
Version:
1.0
Date of creation and author's initials:
24-10-2019 RV
Date of revision and author's initials: -
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Safety Instructions
Everyone involved with the installation, operation and maintenance of this device must:
- Be qualified
- Be skilled
- Have read the instructions in this user manual
- Be sure that neither the device nor the included accessories are damaged. Should the
device or the included accessories be damaged, please contact your dealer for more
information.
- Ensure that the device is in good working condition and is safe to operate. Please follow
the advice and instructions as they are described in this user manual.
Damage caused by misuse and/or modifications made to the device are not covered by the
warranty.
This device does not contain any parts that can be repaired or replaced by the user.
Should maintenance or repairs be necessary, they must be handled by a qualified
technician.
The light source of this device is not replaceable. If the light source no longer functions, the
entire device needs to be replaced.
Important information regarding safety and health:
- Do not remove any labels or stickers from this device.
- Do not leave any cables lying around.
- The device should not be opened up, and any hardware or software that may be present
should not be modified.
- To achieve optimal performance, inputs on the device should not be fed with a signal
higher than necessary.
- The device should only be used indoors; contact with water, rain and moisture should
always be avoided. Do not place any objects containing liquid on top of the device.
- Remove the device from any nearby flames or heat sources; do not place it near
flammable fluids, gasses or objects.
- Disconnect this device from a power source if it will not be used for a longer period of
time, if maintenance is necessary, or if it needs to be cleaned.
- Do not pull on the cable to remove a connector, as it can cause damage.
The informaton shown in this user manual is subject to change without further notice.
Version:
1.0
Date of creation and author's initials:
24-10-2019 RV
Date of revision and author's initials: -
WARNING!
Keep this device away from moisture, water and rain to avoid the chance of
electric shocks.
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- Do not use any cables other than the ones described in this manual. Do not use defective
cables. Please contact your dealer if the included or necessary cables do not function
properly with this device.
- Only use this device with a stable AC power supply.
- Only use this device with power from a grounded power source.
- In the event that the device is exposed to extreme temperature changes (e.g. transported
through a cold outside environment into a warm indoor environment), it should not be
turned on until it has reached room temperature. This is necessary to prevent moisture
from forming in the device, which could lead to electric shocks.
Guidelines and operation of this device:
- This device is intended for use by professionals on stage, in theatres, in clubs, and in
similar entertainment locations.
- This device is not suitable for use by children, and should always be operated by an
adult.
- This device is designed to create light effects for entertainment purposes. It is not suitable
for household illumination.
- This device may only be used in a suitable environment where no damage to the device
can occur. Do not use the device in moist or dusty environments such as:
- indoor swimming pools where chlorine is used
- beaches where there is sand and salt
- outdoors
- indoors in spaces where intense heat sources are present, or where it reaches
temperature levels that would be considered uncomfortable for a person
- Avoid impact and collisions during use and transport. Do not transport the device while it
is in use. Avoid using excessive force when installing and operating the device.
- The user should become familiar with the functions of this device before using it.
- Should the device not be used in the manner described in this user manual, damages or
even injuries could occur. Ayra cannot be held responsible for any injuries or damages that
occur as a result of improper use of this product.
Storage and transport:
- This product was designed for mobile use. Please only transport the device in the original
packaging, or in a flight case with a suitable foam inlay.
- This device was not designed for permanent (24/7) use. The expected lifespan of the
device will not be affected by occasionally turning the device off. Disconnect the device or
turn off the power when it is not actively in use.
- If the device will not be used for a longer period of time, it should be disconnected and
stored in a dust-free environment.
- Do not expose the device to extreme temperature differences.
Housing
- Inspect the device's housing frequently, and always just before use. Avoid operating the
device if there are large dents or cracks, or if screws are missing. Do not use the device if
the housing is not in good condition.
The informaton shown in this user manual is subject to change without further notice.
Version:
1.0
Date of creation and author's initials:
24-10-2019 RV
Date of revision and author's initials: -
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Contact your dealer or a qualified technician if you are unsure about the state of the
device.
- Check the device and the screws for corrosion. Corrosion must not be present on this
device. Contact your dealer or a qualified technician if you find any corrosion on the
screws.
Every power and signal connector should be securely attached. Do not use the device if
the connectors are not secure.
- Avoid dust and dirt build-up. Clean the device once a month by disconnecting it from the
power supply and wiping it down with a dry or slightly moist cloth. If the device is used
frequently, the cleaning intervals should increase.
Symbol explanation:
WEEE: Ensure that this device is disposed of properly. This product falls
under the WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) directive.
The requirements of this directive apply to all manufacturers and
producers of electronic devices in the EU. Do not throw this product
away with regular rubbish. Please contact your local authority for more
information about how to recycle and dispose of these products in your
region. By recycling this product in the proper manner, we can work
together to ensure that we can continue to enjoy these kinds of products
and still protect the environment as much as possible from pollution.
CE: The CE logo indicates that this product meets the European norms
and requirements to which it must legally conform.
Only suitable for indoor use: this product was only designed for indoor
use. The maximum environmental temperature must not exceed 40
degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit).
The informaton shown in this user manual is subject to change without further notice.
Version:
1.0
Date of creation and author's initials:
24-10-2019 RV
Date of revision and author's initials: -
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Overview and Operation Guidelines
The informaton shown in this user manual is subject to change without further notice.
Version:
1.0
Date of creation and author's initials:
24-10-2019 RV
Date of revision and author's initials: -
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1 HI-Z Guitar-Switch Input 1 8 Master Volume Control
2 Gain Control Input 1 + Peak LED 9 Mute Switch
3 HI-Z Guitar-Switch Input 2 10 Monitor Switch (off/direct/mix)
4 Gain Control Input 2 + Peak LED 11 Combi XLR/jack inputs for input 1 & 2
5 +48V Phantom Power Switch 12 Balanced XLR outputs
6 Headphone Volume Control 13 USB 2.0 Port (Micro USB B)
7 Headphone Connector 14 Kensington Lock
Operating the Device
In order to use this audio interface as efficiently as possible, please find an explanation of
the various controls and connectors below.
Hardware
HI-Z Switch
The Hi-Z switch for input 1 & 2 enables you connect an instrument with weak preamplification to one of the inputs (an electric guitar is an example). This makes it possible
to record an instrument on one channel and vocals on the other.
Gain
The gain control is a sound amplifier that slightly amplifies input signals so they’re received
at an optimal level. A peak LED indicator is fitted above the gain control. If it lights up
green, a sufficient input signal is detected. If it lights up red, the input signal on the
corresponding channel is too high and may lead to an overdriven, distorted recording. Try
to avoid overdriven signals at all times – these have a large negative impact on sound
quality.
+48V Phantom Power Supply
+48V Phantom power is required for condenser studio microphones. This power supply
actively charges the microphone’s capsule with electrical current so audio signals are
processed and passed on as accurately as possible.
Phantom power is activated on both channels when enabled. In general, an internal
phantom power supply as featured in other devices (e.g. dynamic vocal microphones)
shouldn’t cause any damage. The only exception concerns ribbon microphones. If
you’d like to connect a ribbon microphone to the interface, please carefully read the
The informaton shown in this user manual is subject to change without further notice.
Version:
1.0
Date of creation and author's initials:
24-10-2019 RV
Date of revision and author's initials: -
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manufacturer’s manual or instructions. The inclusion of a phantom power supply may
cause permanent damage to the ribbon microphone!
An LED status indicator will light up when the phantom power is engaged. It’s normal for
the LED to continue to light up for a short period of time after the phantom power has been
turned off.
Headphone volume control & connector
This rotary button is used to control the headphone volume independently from the master
volume. The headphone connector has been placed on the front of the interface for
convenience.
Master volume control
The master volume control is used to accurately set the volume level of your monitor
speakers. A ‘0 dB’ marker is included and turning the knob past the marked position will
trigger a certain amount of amplification. This may be necessary, possibly due to a lowvolume source signal, so be aware that there may be a small amount of overdrive present.
This occurs because this audio interface is not an amplifier but causes little to no hindrance
during day to day operation.
Mute button & monitor switch
The mute button is used to cancel the transferring of sound signals to your monitor
speakers. This could come in handy for conversations or phone calls during playback as
you can leave the volume as is.
Use the monitor switch to enable direct monitoring. If turned off, neither of the input
channels provide any direct signals to the headphones.
Switch to ‘Direct’ to send channel 1 signals to the left and channel 2 signals to the right.
This enables you to monitor both source signals independently of each other.
Switch to ‘Mix’ to send both source signals to the ‘mix’. The left and right signals are now
identical.
Please note, this functionality is only meant for direct monitoring. Use a DAW or other
suitable audio software to pan mono and stereo sources so the signals can be played back
via the right, left or centre.
Inputs & How to connect equipment (microphone, guitar, line signal)
The Centro 2i2o interface features two independant inputs that offer the same functionality
and are completely divided, making it possible to record all kinds of audio signals in optimal
quality. Choose a microphone signal for vocals and an electro-acoustic guitar, or record the
sound of a digital piano in stereo by using both inputs in-line. The possibilities are endless!
The interface is equipped with combi inputs. Thanks to their special design, both standard
XLR inputs and 6.35 mm jacks can be connected.
The informaton shown in this user manual is subject to change without further notice.
Version:
1.0
Date of creation and author's initials:
24-10-2019 RV
Date of revision and author's initials: -
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Microphone signal: This can be a signal from either a dynamic or condenser microphone.
Use the XLR input to transfer microphone signals. Your microphone could come with its
own XLR connector as well. Use an adapter if this is not the case.
Line signal: This signal is best transferred to the input via a balanced or unbalanced
6.35mm jack plug. A balanced plug carries three signals (tip, ring and sleeve), an
unbalanced signal carries two (tip and sleeve). Line signals typically come from keyboards,
digital pianos, PA or DJ mixers, a CD player and other, similar devices. It is possible your
source device does not feature the correct connector. If so, use an adapter cable.
Guitar signal (Hi-Z): This button is part of the input channels and should be enabled when
you want to connect a guitar or any other instrument with a fixed cable to the interface.
Generally speaking, these instruments carry a signal that’s too weak to be amplified via a
line or microphone input as it may be accompanied by static and a dull sound.
If you’re using other external equipment such as preamps or multi-effects, please check
carefully how the outbound signal is sent out. It may be pre-amplified to a line signal, in
which case the Hi-Z functionality is not required.
Outputs
The Centro 2i2o is fitted with two balanced XLR outputs that can generally be connected to
your studio monitors in stereo. Nine out of ten times, studio monitors have been fitted with
their own built-in amplifier (which will require a separate power supply).
If this is not the case, or you’d like to connect another pair of speakers to a different device
such as a PA mixer, the outputs can be connected to it as well. The interface sends out line
level signals.
Kensington lock
This device comes with a connector that can be used with a Kensington lock. A Kensington
lock is a special lock that uses a mechanism in a specific cut-out in a device’s housing to
lock the device. This discourages theft.
Power supply
The Centre 2i2o is bus-powered via the USB port. A special power supply is not required.
The average laptop or computer should be able to supply ample power to guarantee
correct operation. Always use the included cable to connect the interface to your laptop or
computer.
The informaton shown in this user manual is subject to change without further notice.
Version:
1.0
Date of creation and author's initials:
24-10-2019 RV
Date of revision and author's initials: -
Page 11
Software
Basics
The Devine Centro 2i2o doesn’t solely consist of hardware, it also requires the necessary
software.
Most end users will use this interface as an external sound card for their computer or
laptop. In most cases, the included firmware, which doubles as audio management
software, will set the device as the default sound card after installation.
If you do not connect the Centro 2i2o, your computer or laptop will automatically default
back to the internal sound card.
The Centro software is immediately activated after installation and will be launched after
your computer or laptop has booted up, so you can record and playback instantly.
Playback using third-party software
When the Centro 2i2o is set as the default media player, it will work seamlessly with other
third-party multimedia software.
Within professional software environments such as DAWs (Digital Audio Workstation),
more work may required to get optimal results. More often than not, the DAW’s audio
settings need to be adjusted. The main output should be assigned to the outputs of the
audio interface.
DAWs usually offer the possibility to set a custom sample rate, even though this usually
comes pre-set.
The sample and bit rates largely determine the maximum sound quality the audio interface
is able to process but bear in mind, optimal sound quality also requires a high performance
laptop or computer.
The 16-bit, 44.1 kHz sample rate resolution offers a solid balance and is equivalent to CD
quality sound.
Latency
This audio interface also offers the possibility to adjust latency. Latency refers to usually
slight delay between the audio signal input and the transfer of that signal to the DAW. This
concerns all devices that convert analogue audio signals to digital ones or vice versa.
Humans are practically unable to notice latency below 20 ms.
The informaton shown in this user manual is subject to change without further notice.
Version:
1.0
Date of creation and author's initials:
24-10-2019 RV
Date of revision and author's initials: -
Page 12
When using the interface, latency plays an important role in two situations:
1. Direct monitoring of recordings
If you want to record vocals and guitar, both audio signals should be recorded separately. It
can be convenient for both the singer and the guitarist to each have a pair of headphones
so they can listen to each others signal, without interfering with the recording microphones.
Because the monitor functionality this interface offers bypasses your computer or laptop,
no latency is involved here.
2. Recording sound using DAW samples
You might want to use a beat created in your DAW to play along to while recording synth,
piano or keyboard.
If there’s too much latency to properly register the audio in your DAW, the recorded audio
signal may be registered too late.
The same goes for recording vocals to a backing track. In practise, extensive latency is
caused when too much realtime processing is required and requested.
For instance, you’re playing a drum track, but the various samples you’re using are
generated in real-time by plug-ins and run through active compressors, so it sounds the
way you want it to. This means your computer has to perform real-time processing when
you want to play your sound fragment. In this case, it’s better to first export the drum track
before using it as a sound fragment for backing vocals or guitar recordings. Even if the
drum track has not yet been finalised, you can always go back to alter it and add it to other
tracks.
Optimising input signals
Several factors determine whether the sound you want to record is recorded in optimal
quality.
It starts with the interface itself. The input you select determines the kind of signal in play
(mic, line or Hi-Z). Next, use the gain control to further optimise the signal without the
indicator lighting up in red. Feel free to experiment.
Subsequently, it’s possible to adjust the input volume using the Centro software. This
differs from the gain control, as the gain determines to what extent the input signal is
optimised. Use the volume control the volume at which the signal should enter the mix or if
a certain reduction is required for the purpose.
The golden rule is to not amplify and instead weaken the signal as much as possible after
setting the gain. Any kind of amplification from a component not designed to amplify will
cause quality loss, static and overdrive.
The informaton shown in this user manual is subject to change without further notice.
Version:
1.0
Date of creation and author's initials:
24-10-2019 RV
Date of revision and author's initials: -
Page 13
If you’re using a DAW or other third-party audio software in combination with this interface,
you can find more options to weaken or amplify your audio signals.
It’s recommended to record and process optimised signals, especially when it concerns
audio editing or sound production. Weakening the signal can always be carried out without
risking a loss of quality. On the contrary, amplification may result in loss of quality.
Mute
Please note, the Centro software allows you to mute all inputs and outputs. This
functionality is not linked to any of the hardware. If no sound is coming from the inputs and
outputs, please check the Centro software settings.
This setting could be featured in other third-party audio software as well and may require
adjusting.
The informaton shown in this user manual is subject to change without further notice.
Version:
1.0
Date of creation and author's initials:
24-10-2019 RV
Date of revision and author's initials: -
Page 14
Troubleshooting
If you have a problem with your audio interface, please consult the troubleshooting section
for possible solutions. If, after consulting this section, the problem remains unresolved,
please contact your dealer for more information and/or help.
This troubleshooting section contains information on how to solve the most common audio
interface problems, but it does not and cannot cover every eventuality. It is possible that
you won't find your problem, cause and solution in this section due to differences between
various connecting devices.
Problem Possible cause Solution
The connected
microphone does not
work
The microphone is not
fully connected
Check that the cable is properly
connected to both the microphone and
interface. If possible, try swapping it
with a second cable to check that the
first is not defective.
Mute is switched on
(software)
Check the Centro software to see if
the inputs or outputs are not set to
Mute.
Phantom Power is not
turned on
Condenser microphones only function
when powered by Phantom Power.
Check that the '+48' button on the
front of the interface has been enabled
and that the red indication LED is lit.
No sound through the
headphones
The headphones are not
properly connected
Check that the headphones are full
connected. If the master output is also
not working, check the audio settings
on your computer or laptop.
Distorted signal
(input)
The Gain is set too high Decrease the gain of the input signal
de gain until the LED indicator is no
longer red. If the signal still sounds
distorted, then lower the output level at
the source.
Incorrect cables
connected to incorrect
inputs on interface
Please note that microphones must be
connected via the XLR input and linesignals must be connected via the jack
input. Hi-Z signals can be connected
via the jack inputs as long as the Hi-Z
button is switched on.
The informaton shown in this user manual is subject to change without further notice.
Version:
1.0
Date of creation and author's initials:
24-10-2019 RV
Date of revision and author's initials: -
Page 15
No sound via masteroutput
Volume is muted in
software
Check the mute function of your
software is not enabled.
Volume is muted on
interface
Check the mute function of the
interface is not enabled.
Master volume knob is all
the way down
Check and adjust the master volume.
Interface does not
work
Interface is not receiving
enough power
Check that the power knob on the
interface is lit up and that your
computer or laptop is receiving power.
Usually, the interface receieves
enough power via USB connection.
The audio signal
sounds strange
The sound includes
strange crackles and
pops
This interface works perfectly with the
most different, modern systems. If it
happens that your computer or laptop
is not powerful enough to work with
the interface, it might be necessary to
lower the latency sound quality of the
DAW used, for example.
The informaton shown in this user manual is subject to change without further notice.
Version:
1.0
Date of creation and author's initials:
24-10-2019 RV
Date of revision and author's initials: -
Page 16
Specifications
- Versatile audio interface
- Ideal for recording and playing high quality audio
- Superb A/D and D/A conversion
- 2 in, 2 out 24-bit, 96 kHz interface
- Versatile inputs and outputs suitable for almost any source
- Support both mono and stereo input signals
- Supports line signals, microphone signals and Hi-Z instrument signals
- +48V Phantom power for condenser microphones
- Direct Monitoring function for latency-free direct monitoring of input signals (direct or mix)
- Combi jack/XLR input per input channel
- Balanced XLR stereo output
- Large master volume control with mute button
- USB bus-powered (Micro USB-B to USB-A included)
- Compatible with Windows and Mac OSX
- Compability with other operating systems (Linux, Android, iOS) not guaranteed
- Power LED-indicator
- Signal (green) and Peak (red) LED-indicator per channel
- +48V Phantom power LED indicator
- Kensington compatible cut-out for optional lock
- Headphone jack output via 6.35 mm TRS jack with individual volume control
Technical specifications:
Inputs:
- input type: combi XLR/jack connector per input channel
- support microphone signals (XLR), line signals (jack), Hi-Z instrument signals (jack + Hi-Z
switch)
- frequency range: 20 - 20.000 Hz
- impedance: 10 kOhm line input, 3.3 kOhm microphone input, 500 kOhm Hi-Z
- maximum input level: +20 dBu line input, +4 dBu microphone input, +12 dBu Hi-Z input
- phantom power: +48V switchable (both inputs simultaneously)
Outputs:
- 2x balanced XLR outputs (stereo possible)
- frequency range: 20 - 20.000 Hz
- maximum output level: +4 dBu
Audio processing:
- max. 24-bits, 96 kHz
- ADC dynamic range: 102 dBA at 48 kHz
- DAC dynamic range: 108 dBA at 48 kHz
Power supply:
- USB 2.0
The informaton shown in this user manual is subject to change without further notice.
Version:
1.0
Date of creation and author's initials:
24-10-2019 RV
Date of revision and author's initials: -
Page 17
- USB Micro B port on interface
- USB A - USB micro B cable included
- Bus-powered via USB
System requirements PC:
- Windows Vista / 7 / 8 / 8.1, 10 or higher (32-bit or 64-bit)
- Driver required
System requirements Mac:
- OSX 10.7 or higher
- Driver not required for basic functionality, optionally available
The informaton shown in this user manual is subject to change without further notice.
Version:
1.0
Date of creation and author's initials:
24-10-2019 RV
Date of revision and author's initials: -
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