How to Set Up the PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 for Vocals

The PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 is a simple interface with two inputs. It's powered over USB, so you don't need an adapter. Here's how to set it up properly for recording your vocals.

1. Connect it and the driver

Connect the AudioBox to your computer with the USB cable. On a Mac it works right away, no driver needed. On Windows, first install PreSonus Universal Control. That includes the ASIO and WDM drivers. Then choose the AudioBox ASIO driver in your DAW.

2. Mic in a combo input

On the front are two combo inputs. They take an XLR cable from your mic, but also a jack cable from, say, a guitar. Your mic goes into input 1 with the XLR cable.

3. 48V on or off?

The 48V button turns on phantom power for both inputs at once. Whether you need it depends on your mic:

• Condenser mic, like a RØDE NT1 or Audio-Technica AT2020: 48V on.
• Dynamic mic, like a Shure SM58: not needed.

4. Set your gain

Each input has its own gain knob with a red light next to it. According to PreSonus, that light comes on when your signal hits 0 dBFS. That means it's clipping and your recording distorts. Rap or sing your loudest part and turn the gain up until you stay just below that point. If the light comes on, turn it back down.

According to PreSonus, the mic input gain goes up to about 52 dB. That's enough for most mics. According to Shure, a Shure SM7B needs around 60 dB. Read Shure SM7B too quiet? for what to do.

5. The Mixer knob: hear yourself without delay

The Mixer knob blends what comes in with what your computer plays. Turn it toward Input and you hear more of your mic. Toward Playback you hear more of your computer, like your beat. In the middle it's split evenly. That way you hear yourself right away, without delay.

Hearing yourself through the AudioBox? Turn off monitoring on your track in your DAW. Otherwise you'll hear yourself twice. Also read how to fix latency when recording.

6. Headphones and speakers

The Phones knob sets your headphone volume. The Main knob is for your speakers. Use closed-back headphones when you record, so the beat doesn't leak into your mic.

7. Choose the input in your DAW

Create a mono audio track in your DAW and choose input 1. Step-by-step guides:

• how to record vocals in Ableton Live
• how to record vocals in GarageBand on Mac

Still choosing an interface? Read how to set up the Scarlett Solo, how to set up the Audient EVO 4 and how to set up the Behringer UMC22 and UMC202HD. Need a beat? Browse all beats.

FAQ

Does the AudioBox USB 96 need a driver?

Not on a Mac. On Windows, install PreSonus Universal Control for the ASIO driver.

Why do I hear myself twice?

You're probably hearing yourself through the AudioBox Mixer knob and through your DAW. Turn off monitoring in your DAW.

Can I turn on 48V per input?

No. The 48V button applies to both inputs at once.

Source: the PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 owner's manual and specifications, and Shure on the SM7B.