Alesis iO14 Reference Manual page 13

5. Monitor Blend Knob – This knob controls the amount of
direct signal (from the analog and digital inputs) that gets
blended in to outputs 1/2. This direct signal monitoring
bypasses the computer for lag-free listening while tracking.
The levels and pan positions of each of the direct signals is
set using the "Hardware Direct Monitoring" program that
ships with the IO|14/26 (see page 35 for more about this
program).
When this knob is turned fully counterclockwise, the
Hardware Direct Monitor mix is muted, so you'll only hear
the output being returned from your computer's Digital
Audio Workstation. When the knob is turned fully clockwise,
you'll hear the Hardware Direct Monitoring mix at full
volume as well as the signal coming back from your DAW.
6. Metering Section – 5-segment "ladder" meters show the
precise, digital input signal for each analog channel.
Status lights indicate Firewire connection to the computer,
current sample rate, and ADAT input, S/PDIF input, and
MIDI activity.
Stereo output meters show the levels for outputs 1/2.
7. Phones 1&2 Volume – The IO|14/26 has two separate
headphone outputs. These knobs let you set the volume for
each output.
8. Main Level – This knob sets the output level of channels
1/2.
9. Mic/Line or Phono Switch (IO|26 only) – Turntables
require special "phono" preamps that have higher gain and an
"RIAA equalization curve" in order to playback records
correctly. If you want to connect a turntable to your IO|26,
use the RCA "phono" inputs (on the rear of the unit) and
engage this switch.
Note that when you engage this switch, the top panel inputs
and gain controls for channels 7-8 are disabled.
10. Phantom Power – These switches let you supply +48v
"Phantom Power" to condenser microphones that require
power. Each button engages/disengages phantom power for
a pair of inputs (i.e., channels 1-2, 3-4, 5-6, and 7-8).
Hardware Overview
Phantom power is only
necessary for condenser
microphones. Dynamic
microphones do not need
power to work correctly.
Check your microphone's
manual to find out if it needs
phantom power.
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