What you need
You need an instrument or microphone, a compatible USB audio interface, a data cable, and headphones or speakers. Connect a guitar to a Hi-Z/instrument input. USB-C devices may connect directly; Lightning devices require a compatible adapter. Use a powered hub or external interface power when bus power is insufficient.
Cables, adapters and power
- Devices with a USB-C port (iPhone 15 and later, USB-C iPad models, Mac) connect to the interface directly with a USB-C cable. A charge-only cable carries no data and the interface will not be recognized, so use the cable supplied with the interface or another data cable.
- Devices with a Lightning port (iPhone 14 and earlier, iPad models with a Home button and others) need an Apple Lightning to USB Camera Adapter. A regular Lightning charging cable cannot connect a USB audio interface.
- When a Lightning device needs power. If the interface runs only on USB bus power, the power available from the Lightning port is usually not enough. Use the Lightning to USB 3 Camera Adapter, which has a charging port, and connect a charger to that port. The charger helps power the interface and charges the device at the same time. With the Lightning to USB Camera Adapter that has no charging port, you need an interface with its own power supply or a powered USB hub.
- Signs of too little power. The device shows a notice that the accessory uses too much power, the interface's indicator does not light or turns off again, or the interface name does not appear under Audio device in Settings. Dropouts or disconnections while playing can have the same cause.
- USB-C devices may need power too. Interfaces with many inputs and outputs, microphone inputs with 48V phantom power on, and loud headphone levels can draw more than the device supplies. Connect the interface's power adapter, or put a USB-C hub with a charger input in between.
- For long sessions. The device battery drains faster while it powers an interface. For rehearsals and shows, connect through an adapter or hub that lets you charge while you play.
- If the interface is not recognized, unplug everything, connect the charger to the adapter or hub first, then the interface, and plug into the device last. Power needs and supported connections differ between interfaces, so also check the manufacturer's instructions for iPhone and iPad.
Connect and listen
- Turn down monitor volume, then connect the interface.
- Open NAM FX and allow microphone access. USB audio input needs this permission too.
- In Settings, check the audio device and select the physical input used by PATH A.
- Play and watch the IN meter. Adjust the interface gain to avoid sustained clipping.
- Check the OUT meter and output connections, then raise monitor volume gradually.
Find it on screen
- Check the connected interface under Audio device.
- Under Input channels, choose the physical IN used by PATH A.
- Close Settings and check both the bottom IN/OUT meters and audible output.
Start with a simple chain
First verify input and output with built-in effects, without a NAM model or IR. Amp capture files are not bundled. An empty NAM slot is not a loaded amp sound. If Resume appears after an interruption, check your connections and monitor level before tapping it.
Platform differences
This manual uses iPad as the reference screen. Its large workspace supports chain editing and LIVE controls in landscape and portrait. iPhone also rearranges controls for portrait and landscape. Mac runs a native standalone app with device selection in Settings. Use the same interface for input and output on Mac.
Find it on screen
- The landscape iPad view shows the chain, parameters and scenes together.
- See the device sections in the gallery for iPhone and Mac layouts.