OWNER’S MANUAL
MONO
ON/OFF
LEVEL
LEFT OUTPUT RIGHT OUTPUT
PHONES
USB INPUT
GROUND
LIFT
POWER
Important Safety Instructions
.
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 a 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.
Only use attachments/accessories specified by the
manufacturer.
10.
Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is
MDB-USB Stereo Direct Box
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.
11.
This apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing, and
no object filled with liquids, such as vases or beer glasses, shall
be placed on the apparatus.
12.
This device complies with Part 5 of the FCC Rules. Operation is
subject to the following two conditions: () this device may not
cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any
interference received, including interference that may cause
undesired operation.
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 o 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 the receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit
dierent from that to which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio / TV
technician for help.
CAUTION:
Changes or modifications to this device not expressly
approved by LOUD Audio LLC could void the user's authority to
operate the equipment under FCC rules.
WARNING — To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock,
do not expose this apparatus to rain or moisture.
3.
This device complies with FCC radiation exposure limits set
forth for an uncontrolled environment. This device should be
installed and operated with minimum distance 20cm between
the radiator & your body.
4.
This apparatus does not exceed the Class A/Class B
(whichever is applicable) limits for radio noise emissions
from digital apparatus as set out in the radio interference
regulations of the Canadian Department of Communications.
ATTENTION
— Le présent appareil numérique n’émet pas de bruits
radioélectriques dépassant las limites applicables aux
appareils numériques de class A/de class B (selon le cas)
prescrites dans le réglement sur le brouillage radioélectrique
édicté par les ministere des communications du Canada.
5.
This device complies with Industry Canada licence-exempt RSS
standard(s).
Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
() this device may not cause interference, and
(2) this device must accept any interference, including
interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.
Le présent appareil est conforme aux CNR d’Industrie
Canada applicables aux appareils radio exempts de licence.
L’exploitation est autorisée aux deux conditions suivantes:
() l’appareil ne doit pas produire de brouillage, et
(2) l’utilisateur de l’appareil doit accepter tout brouillage
radioélectrique subi, même si le brouillage est susceptible d’en
compromettre le fonctionnement.
6.
Exposure to extremely high noise levels may cause permanent
hearing loss. Individuals vary considerably in susceptibility to
noise-induced hearing loss, but nearly everyone will lose some
hearing if exposed to suciently intense noise for a period of
time. The U.S. Government’s Occupational Safety and Health
Administration (OSHA) has specified the permissible noise
level exposures shown in the following chart.
According to OSHA, any exposure in excess of these
permissible limits could result in some hearing loss. To
ensure against potentially dangerous exposure to high sound
pressure levels, it is recommended that all persons exposed
to equipment capable of producing high sound pressure levels
use hearing protectors while the equipment is in operation.
Ear plugs or protectors in the ear canals or over the ears must
be worn when operating the equipment in order to prevent
permanent hearing loss if exposure is in excess of the limits set
forth here:
Duration, per
day in hours
8 90 Duo in small club
6 92
4 95 Subway Train
3 97
2 100 Very loud classical music
1.5 102
1 105 Ryan screaming at Troy about deadlines
0.5 110
0.25 or less 115 Loudest parts at a rock concert
Sound Level dBA,
Slow Response
Typical Example
Correct disposal of this product: This symbol indicates that this product should not be disposed of with your household waste, according to the WEEE
directive (2012/19/EU) and your national law. This product should be handed over to an authorized collection site for recycling waste electrical and
electronic equipment (EEE). Improper handling of this type of waste could have a possible negative impact on the environment and human health due
to potentially hazardous substances that are generally associated with EEE. At the same time, your cooperation in the correct disposal of this product
will contribute to the eective usage of natural resources. For more information about where you can drop o your waste equipment for recycling, please
contact your local city oce, waste authority, or your household waste disposal service.
2
MDB-USB Stereo Direct Box
Contents
Owner’s Manual
Introduction
Important Safety Instructions ........................................ 2
Contents ........................................................................... 3
Features ............................................................................3
How To Use This Manual ................................................. 3
Introduction ..................................................................... 3
Getting Started ................................................................ 3
Things To Remember ....................................................... 3
Hookup Diagram .............................................................. 4
MDB-USB: Front Panel Features .................................... 5
1. USB Input ............................................................... 5
2. Power LED .............................................................5
3. Level Knob .............................................................5
4. Headphone Output ...............................................5
5. Mono On / O Switch ........................................... 5
6. Mono On / O LED ................................................ 5
MDB-USB: Rear Panel Features .....................................6
7. XLR Output Jacks ................................................. 6
8. Ground Lif Switch ...............................................6
Appendix A: Service Information ....................................7
Appendix B: Technical Information ................................ 8
MDB-USB Dimensions .............................................8
MDB-USB Block Diagram ........................................9
Limited Warranty ........................................................... 10
With the bus-powered MDB-USB Stereo DI, the days of
relying on your headphone jack to get audio from a computer
into analog gear are over.
Combining a high-resolution audio interface with a noise
and distortion-free stereo DI, MDB-USB converts your digital
audio into clean, balanced, stereo output.
Featuring an output level control, headphone output, and
mono sum for maximum versatility. Analog outputs are dual
XLR with ground lif.
Getting Started
The following steps will help you set up the MDB-USB Stereo
Direct Box quickly.
1. Turn down all level knobs on all connected gear.
2. Connect cords from the XLR outputs of the MDB-USB to
the inputs of a mixer, powered speakers or studio monitors.
3. Push the USB cable securely into the MDB-USB’s USB
input connector and plug the other end into any open USB
slot of the computer.
4. Turn the computer on. Make sure the MDB-USB powers
up, as well, indicated by the power LED.
5. Turn the mixer, powered speakers or studio monitors on.
Features
• Connect your computer directly via USB
• High-resolution 24-bit / 96 kHz interface
• Balanced, low-impedance XLR outputs with Ground Lif
• Output level control with Mono switch
• Headphone output for easy monitoring
• Noise-free operation
• Powered by computer
• Plug-and-play operation, no driver required
• Built-Like-A-Tank™ construction
How to Use This Manual
Afer this introduction, a getting started guide will help you
get things set up fast. The hookup diagram shows a typical
setup.
This icon marks information that is critically
important or unique to the MDB-USB.
For your own good, read and remember them.
6. Be sure that the volume of the input is the same as it
would be during normal use.
7. Slowly raise the level knob to a comfortable listening level.
Things to Remember
• Never listen to loud music for prolonged periods.
Please see the Safety Instructions on page 2 for
information on hearing protection.
• Save the shipping boxes and packing materials!
You may need them someday. Besides, your hamster
will love playing in them and jumping out at you
unexpectedly. Remember to pretend like you
are surprised!
• Save your sales receipt in a safe place.
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Part No. SW1225 Rev. B 01/19
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Owner’s Manual
3
Hookup Diagram
MDB-USB Stereo Direct Box
LEVEL
MONO
ON/OFF
PHONES
USB INPUT
STEREO DIRECT BOX
POWER
PC / MAC
LEFT OUTPUT RIGHT OUTPUT
GROUND
LIFT
As you can see in this hookup diagram, the MDB-USB is a convenient stereo direct box to add to the chain.
Let’s look at the front panel connections first. Start by simply connecting a USB cable from the computer’s
USB slot to the MDB-USB input jack. And end by simply connecting a pair of headphones to the phones
1/8" output jack. Front panel connections made!
The rear panel connections are as straighforward as the front panel connections. Here we connected
the XLR L/R line output jacks of the MDB-USB to the inputs of a Mackie 1202VLZ4 mixer. The outputs
of the mixer are then connected to the inputs of the house PA loudspeaker system.
That was our part. The next part is up to you... crank up and get the floor shakin’!
Typical MDB-USB Setup
4
MDB-USB Stereo Direct Box
MDB-USB Stereo DIrect Box: Front Panel Features
Owner’s Manual
1. USB Input
The built-in USB interface allows you to stream
audio from a computer and route it to the outputs
and headphones. It will show up automatically on PC
and Mac, no driver required!
Fortune: Next full moon brings an enchanting evening.
Lucky numbers: 52–16–34–56–15–37
2. Power LED
This LED will illuminate green when the computer is
powered on and connected successfully and securely
(via USB) to the MDB-USB Stereo Direct Box.
Fortune: Listen to yourself more ofen.
Lucky numbers: 1–49–28–9–6–35
3
LEVEL
5
MONO
ON/OFF
PHONES
USB INPUT
4
STERE O DIREC T BOX
1
2
POWER
6
4. Headphone Output
This 1/8" TRS connector supplies the output to
stereo headphones. It is the same signal that is routed
to the outputs. The volume is controlled with the level
knob.
The phones output follows standard conventions:
Tip = Lef channel
Ring = Right channel
Sleeve = Common ground
WARNING: The headphone amp is loud,
and can cause permanent hearing damage.
Even intermediate levels may be painfully
loud with some headphones. BE CAREFUL! Always turn
the level control all the way down before connecting
headphones or doing anything new that may aect the
headphone volume. Then turn it up slowly as you listen
carefully.
Fortune: Make a wise choice every day.
Lucky numbers: 1–10–12–13–20–36
5. Mono On / O Switch
With this switch in the OFF position (up), the lef
and right sides are in stereo.
3. Level Knob
The level knob adjusts the overall volume to the XLR
outputs and headphones.
Fortune: The secret of getting ahead is getting started.
Lucky numbers: 28–36–34–29–37–10
With this switch in the ON position (down), the stereo
signal is summed to mono.
Fortune: Never cut what you can untie.
Lucky numbers: 8–6–7–5–3–09
6. Mono On / O LED
This LED illuminates when the Mono On / O switch
is on (in mono mode).
Fortune: It’s tough to be fascinating.
Lucky numbers: 26–44–20–31–49–7
Owner’s Manual
5
1
SHIELD
MDB-USB Stereo DIrect Box: Rear Panel Features
7. XLR Output Jacks
These XLR connectors provide a balanced line-level
signal that is designed to connect to the inputs of a
mixer, powered speakers or studio monitors.
They are wired as follows, according to standards
specified by the AES (Audio Engineering Society):
Balanced XLR Output Connector
Pin 1 – Shield (ground)
Pin 2 – Positive (+ or hot)
Pin 3 – Negative (– or cold)
MDB-USB Stereo Direct Box
3
COLD
2
HOT
1
3
2
Fortune: A feeling is an idea with roots.
Lucky numbers: 12–46–79–40–2–34
SHIELD
COLD
HOT
8. Ground Lif Switch
The ground lif separates the chassis ground from
the signal ground at the balanced output jacks. The
default position is ground. You may attempt to remedy
system ground loop hum by moving the switch to lif.
Fortune: Spring has sprung. Life is blooming.
Lucky numbers: 6–11–19–23–26–28
LEFT OUTPUT RIGHT OUTPUT
GROUND
LIFT
87 7
6
MDB-USB Stereo Direct Box
Appendix A: Service Information
Owner’s Manual
If you think your MDB-USB Stereo Direct Box has a problem,
please check out the following troubleshooting tips and do your
best to confirm the problem. Visit the Support section of our
website (www.mackie.com/support) where you will find lots of
useful information such as FAQs and other documentation. You
may find the answer to the problem without having to part with
your MDB-USB Stereo Direct Box.
Troubleshooting
No power
• Our favorite question: Is it plugged in? Make sure
the USB cable is securely fastened to both the
MDB-USB and computer.
• Our next favorite question: Is the computer’s power
switch on? If not, try turning it on.
• Is the power LED on the front panel illuminated?
Hum
• Use balanced connections throughout your system
for the best noise rejection.
• Whenever possible, plug all the audio equipment’s line
cords into outlets which share a common ground.
The distance between the outlets and the common
ground should be as short as possible.
Repair
For warranty service, refer to the warranty information
on page 10.
Non-warranty service is available at a factory-authorized
service center. To locate the nearest service center, visit
www.mackie.com/support/service-locator. Service for
MDB-USBs living outside the United States may be obtained
through local dealers or distributors.
No sound
• Is the level knob for the input source turned all the way
down? Verify that all the volume controls in the system
are properly adjusted. Look at the level meter to ensure
that the mixer is receiving a signal.
• Is the signal source working? Make sure the connecting
cables are in good repair and securely connected at both
ends. Make sure the output level control on the mixing
console is turned up suciently.
• Make sure the mixer does not have a mute on or a
processor loop engaged. If you find something like this,
make sure the level is turned down before disengaging
the oending switch.
Poor sound
• Is it loud and distorted? Make sure that you’re not
overdriving a stage in the signal chain. Verify that
all level controls are set properly.
• Be sure all connections are secure.
If you do not have access to our website, please call our Tech
Support department at 1-800-898-3211 (normal business hours,
Pacific Time), to explain the problem. They will tell you where
the nearest factory-authorized service center is located in your
area.
Please write the serial numbers here for future reference
(i.e., insurance claims, tech support, return authorization,
make dad proud, etc.)
Purchased at:
Date of purchase:
Owner’s Manual
7
Appendix B: Technical Information
MDB-USB Stereo Direct Box Specifications
Audio Performance
Frequency Response 20 Hz – 20 kHz , ±0.5 dB
Total Harmonic Distortion <0.01%
Dynamic Range 88 dB
Stereo Channel Separation <–78 dB
Input / Output
Input Type Female Type-B USB
Input Impedance 330 k balanced
MDB-USB Stereo Direct Box
Output Type 2x Male XLR Balanced
1/8" Stereo Unbalanced (Phones)
Output Impedance 600
150 balanced (1/8")
Level Control Rotating knob
Requirements
USB Bus powered 90mA
Format USB 2.0
Compatibility Windows 7, 8, 10
Supports WDM, MME, CoreAudio,
DirectSound, .WAV
Sample Rates (set by computer) 44.1 / 48 / 88.2 / 96 kHz
balanced (XLR)
Mac OS
16 / 24-bits
Display LEDs
Front power on/o,
Front Mono on/o
Physical Properties
Height: 1.5 in / 38 mm
Width: 3.4 in / 86 mm
Depth: 5.8 in / 147 mm
Weight: 1.0 lb / 0.5 kg
Disclaimer
Since we are always striving to make our products better by incorporating new
and improved materials, components, and manufacturing methods, we reserve
the right to change these specifications at any time without notice.
The “Running Man” figure is a registered trademark of LOUD Audio, LLC.
All other brand names mentioned are trademarks or registered trademarks
of their respective holders, and are hereby acknowledged.
©2019 LOUD Audio, LLC
All Rights Reserved.
MDB-USB Stereo Direct Box Dimensions
WEIGHT
1.0 lb
0.5 kg
8
MDB-USB Stereo Direct Box
5.8 in / 147 mm
3.4 in
86 mm
1.5 in
38 mm
MDB-USB Stereo Direct Box Block Diagram
4
6
Owner’s Manual
1
GND
3
5
1
XLR OUT L
2 3
2
HEADPHONE
XLR OUT R
1
2 3
PHONE JACK
FIXED RESISTANCE
FIXED RESISTANCE
LA
LINE AMP
LA
LINE AMP
LA
LINE AMP
MONO
5
FIXED RESISTANCE
OUTPUT LEVEL
LEFT O UT
RIGHT OUT
USB
RECEIVER
LA
LINE AMP
6
4
FIXED RESISTANCE
Owner’s Manual
9
Limited Warranty
Please keep your sales receipt in a safe place.
This Limited Product Warranty (“Product Warranty”) is provided by LOUD Audio, LLC (“LOUD”) and is applicable to products
purchased in the United States or Canada through a LOUD-authorized reseller or dealer. The Product Warranty will not extend
to anyone other than the original purchaser of the product (hereinafer, “Customer,” “you” or “your”).
For products purchased outside the U.S. or Canada, please visit www.mackie.com to find contact information for your local
distributor, and information on any warranty coverage provided by the distributor in your local market.
LOUD warrants to Customer that the product will be free from defects in materials and workmanship under normal use
during the Warranty Period. If the product fails to conform to the warranty then LOUD or its authorized service representative
will at its option, either repair or replace any such nonconforming product, provided that Customer gives notice of the
MDB-USB Stereo Direct Box
noncompliance within the Warranty Period to the Company at: www.mackie.com or by calling LOUD technical support
at 1.800.898.3211 (toll-free in the U.S. and Canada) during normal business hours Pacific Time, excluding weekends
or LOUD holidays. Please retain the original dated sales receipt as evidence of the date of purchase. You will need it
to obtain any warranty service.
For full terms and conditions, as well as the specific duration of the Warranty for this product, please visit www.mackie.com.
The Product Warranty, together with your invoice or receipt, and the terms and conditions located at www.mackie.com
constitutes the entire agreement, and supersedes any and all prior agreements between LOUD and Customer related
to the subject matter hereof. No amendment, modification or waiver of any of the provisions of this Product Warranty
will be valid unless set forth in a written instrument signed by the party to be bound thereby.
10
Need help with the MDB-USB?
• Visit www.mackie.com/support to find: FAQs, manuals, addendums, and other documents.
• Email us at: www.mackie.com/support-contact
• Telephone 1-800-898-3211 to speak with one of our splendid technical support chaps
(Monday through Friday, normal business hours, Pacific Time).
MDB-USB Stereo Direct Box
16220 Wood-Red Road NE
Woodinville, WA 98072 • USA
Phone: 425.487.4333
Toll-free: 800.898.3211
Fax: 425.487.4337
www.mackie.com
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