Behringer iAXE393 User manual

Version 1.1 September 2006
User’s manual
iAXE393 USB-GUITAR

2
iAXE393 USB-GUITAR
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
CAUTION: To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not remove
the top cover (or the rear section). No user
serviceable parts inside; refer servicing to qualified
personnel.
WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not
expose this appliance to rain and moisture. The
apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping or
splashing and no objects filled with liquids, such
as vases, shall be placed on the apparatus.
This symbol, wherever it appears, alerts you to the
presence of uninsulated dangerous voltage inside
the enclosure—voltage that may be sufficient to
constitute a risk of shock.
This symbol, wherever it appears, alerts you to
important operating and maintenance instructions
in the accompanying literature. Please read the
manual.
1) 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 dry cloth.
7) Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators,
heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including
amplifiers) that produce heat.
8) Only use attachments/accessories specified by the
manufacturer.
9) Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
Servicing is 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.
10) CAUTION - These service instructions are for use by
qualified service personnel only. To reduce the risk of
electric shock do not perform any servicing other than
that contained in the operation instructions unless you
are qualified to do so.

3
iAXE393 USB-GUITAR
iAXE393
USB-GUITAR
VPlugthisamazingUSB-guitarstraightintoyourcomputerandturnyourPCorMaccomputerintoaguitar
ampandrecordingsystemwithouttheneedforanyotherhardware
VYou get a top-notch electric guitar featuring a 22-fret maple neck, solid body, chrome machine heads, 3
single-coil pickups, 5-way switching and vintage vibrato bridge. The guitar can also be used with any
traditionalguitaramplifier
VEnjoyimmediateaccessto“GuitarCombosBEHRINGEREdition”fromNativeInstruments—theleading
authenticguitarampandstompbox modeling software
VPackage also includes Kristal 16-track music production and Audacity editing software
VWorksdirectly with your PCor Mac computer—ultra-low latencyASIO drivers for PCincluded
VAll these accessories are included: CD, USB cable, adjustable guitar strap and 3 picks
VStereoHeadphoneoutputletsyoujamwith your computerandcanalso be usedformonitoringwith active
monitorspeakers
VVariable-speed file playback function for MP3, WAV, AIFF audio files—perfect for easy learning and
practising
VPoweredvia USB—no additionalpowersupplyrequired
VHigh-qualitycomponentsandexceptionallyruggedconstructionensurelonglife
VConceivedand designedbyBEHRINGERGermany
The Ultimate Electric Guitar with Built-In USB Port to Connect Straight toThe Ultimate Electric Guitar with Built-In USB Port to Connect Straight to
The Ultimate Electric Guitar with Built-In USB Port to Connect Straight toThe Ultimate Electric Guitar with Built-In USB Port to Connect Straight to
The Ultimate Electric Guitar with Built-In USB Port to Connect Straight to
Your Computer. Jam with Killer Modeling Amps and EffectsYour Computer. Jam with Killer Modeling Amps and Effects
Your Computer. Jam with Killer Modeling Amps and EffectsYour Computer. Jam with Killer Modeling Amps and Effects
Your Computer. Jam with Killer Modeling Amps and Effects
All trademarks (except BEHRINGER and iAXE) mentioned belong to their respective owners and are not affiliated with BEHRINGER.
Mac is a trademark of Apple Computer, Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.

4
iAXE393 USB-GUITAR
FOREWORD
Dear customer,
Welcome to the team of
BEHRINGER users, and
thank you very much for
expressing your confidence
in us by purchasing this
iAXE393.
Writing this foreword for
you gives me great
pleasure, because it
represents the culmination
of many months of hard
work delivered by our
engineering team to
achieve a very ambitious
goal: To design an
outstanding electric guitar
with integrated USB
interface that allows the
direct connection to the
computer, which convinces through its excellent sound and offers
a maximum of flexibility and performance. The task of designing
our new iAXE393 guitar certainly meant a great deal of
responsibility, which we assumed by focusing on you, the
discerning user and musician. Meeting your expectations also
meantalotofwork and nightshifts. But itwas fun, too.Developing
a product usually brings a lot of people together, and what a
great feeling it is when all who participated in such a project can
be proud of what they’ve achieved.
It is our philosophy to share our enjoyment with you, because
you are the most important member of the BEHRINGER team.
With your highly competent suggestions for new products you’ve
madeasignificantcontributionto shapingourcompanyandmaking
itsuccessful. In return, weguarantee you uncompromisingquality
aswell as excellenttechnical and audioproperties at anextremely
reasonable price. All of this will enable you to give free rein to
your creativity without being hampered by budget constraints.
We are often asked how we manage to produce such high-
quality devices at such unbelievably low prices. The answer is
quite simple: it’s you, our customers! Many satisfied customers
mean large sales volumes enabling us to get better purchasing
terms for components, etc. Isn’t it only fair to pass this benefit on
to you? Because we know that your success is our success too!
I would like to thank everyone that made the iAXE393 possible in
the first place. You have all made your own personal
contributions, from the developers to the many other employees
at this company, and to you, the BEHRINGER user.
My friends, it’s been worth the effort!
Thank you very much,
UliBehringer
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1 INTRODUCTION ......................................................... 5
1.1 Before you get started ................................................... 5
1.1.1 Shipment ................................................................ 5
1.1.2 Care ....................................................................... 5
1.1.3 Online registration ................................................. 5
2 CONTROLSAND CONNECTIONS ..............................6
3 SOFTWARE ................................................................7
3.1 Included software .......................................................... 7
3.2 System requirements...................................................... 8
3.3 Device drivers and latency ............................................ 8
4.1 Operation of the USB connector .................................... 9
4 APPLICATION EXAMPLES.........................................9
4.2 Connection to a guitar amp ............................................. 9
5 AUDIOCONNECTIONS.............................................10
5.1 Wiring ............................................................................ 10
5.2 Headphone connection................................................. 10
5.3 USB cable ..................................................................... 10
6 SPECIFICATIONS .....................................................10
7 WARRANTY .............................................................. 11
FCC—FEDERALCOMMUNICATIONSCOMMISSION
COMPLIANCEINFORMATION ........................12

5
iAXE393 USB-GUITAR
1.1 Before you get started
1.1.1 Shipment
Your iAXE393 USB-Guitar was carefully packed at the assembly
plant to assure secure transport. Should the condition of the
cardboard box suggest that damage may have taken place,
please inspect the unit immediately and look for physical
indications of damage.
Damaged equipment should NEVER be sent directly
to us. Please inform the dealer from whom you
acquired the unit immediately as well as the
transportation company from which you took
delivery. Otherwise, all claims for replacement/
repair may be rendered invalid.
Please always use the original packaging to avoid
damage due to storage or shipping.
Never let unsupervised children play with the
iAXE393 USB-Guitar or with its packaging.
Please dispose of all packaging materials in an
environmentally friendly fashion.
1.1.2 Care
Do not lean your guitar against walls; it could get knocked over
or bumped into.
Never leave your guitar lying on the floor or on the edge of your
bed where it may get stepped on or knocked off er even sat on.
Never leave your instrument in the trunk of a car when the
weather is very warm or extremely cold. Extereme temperatures
can be harmful to your gear.
1.1.3 Online registration
Please,doremember toregister yournewBEHRINGER equipment
right after your purchase by visiting www.behringer.com
(alternatively www.behringer.de) and kindly read the terms and
conditions of our warranty carefully.
Shouldyour BEHRINGER productmalfunction, ourgoalis tohave
itrepaired as quickly aspossible. To arrange forwarranty service,
please contact the retailer from whom the equipment was
purchased. Should your BEHRINGER dealer not be located in
your vicinity, you may directly contact one of our subsidiaries.
Corresponding contact information is included in the original
equipment packaging (Global Contact Information/European
Contact Information). Should your country not be listed, please
contact the distributor nearest you. A list of distributors can be
found in the support area of our website (www.behringer.com).
Registering your purchase and equipment with us helps us
process your repair claims quicker and more efficiently.
Thank you for your cooperation!
1 INTRODUCTION
Thank you for expressing your confidence in us by purchasing the BEHRINGER iAXE393 USB-GUITAR.
Your computer will become the ultimate working platform on which you can use the classic effects, in the studio as well as on stage.
BEHRINGER presents the groundbreaking iAXE393 USB-Guitar which gives you the possibility to record the brilliant song, which just
came to your mind, immediately and directly to your computer.
With a notebook and the BEHRINGER iAXE393 USB-Guitar it is now possible to work on the go, be it train or hotel.
The iAXE393 guitar‘s scope of delivery includes a first-class modeling software with virtual amps and effects pedals. Accompany
songs in MP3, WAV, AIFF format which you can play from your computer or Mac.
1 INTRODUCTION

6
iAXE393 USB-GUITAR
2 CONTROLS AND CONNECTIONS
The iAXE393 can either be connected directly via jack to an amplifier or by connecting the provided USB cable to your PC/Mac
computer. At the same time, the USB connection acts as power supply for the iAXE393 guitar.
Fig. 2.1: Control elements and connections
2 CONTROLSANDCONNECTIONS
You can use a commercially available ¼" TRS for the -
connection.
You can connect the guitar with the USB connection to
your computer via USB. The blue control LED indicates that
a connection to the computer has been established.
The ¼" TS connection can be used to connect the iAXE393
guitar to any standard guitar amplifier. (See Fig. 4.2)
With the TONE controllers, you can lower the high
frequencies of the guitar.
These controllers affect both conventional and USB
output.
The VOLUME controller lets you change the volume of the
guitar output. The headphone volume needs to be changed
by using the software on the computer.
We would like to draw your attention to the fact that
extremely loud sound levels may damage your
hearing as well as your headphones/loudspeakers.
Turn the VOLUME control fully to the left before you
switch on the unit. Be careful to select a suitable
volume at all times.
This controller affects both conventional and USB
output.

7
iAXE393 USB-GUITAR
After installing the software, you can test 3 different amp
simulations for 30 days. Subsequently, you have to choose one
of the amps which then needs to be registered on the dedicated
NI-BEHRINGERInternetpage at:
www.native-instruments.com/comboshop.info.
Here you will find an overview with a brief description of the 3
combos that are provided. Furthermore, the steps of purchase
as well as how to use your coupon are described in the top part
of the page (see Fig. 3.1). For example, click “Order GUITAR
COMBO I” to order Combo I, then follow the instructions found in
the NI Online Shop, i.e. the shopping cart.
Fig. 3.1: Starting of Online-Shop
Figure 3.2 shows the second step “2. Product Details” found in
the NI-Behringer Shop. After that, your purchase is not far off.
Fig. 3.2: Second step “2. Product Details” of
NI-Behringer Shop
3.1 Included software
TheiAXE393 USB-Guitar comeswith a complete softwarebundle
which allows you to start immediately. The software package
consists of:
VNativeInstruments “GuitarCombosBEHRINGER Edition”—
3 different combos (PC/Mac)
VKristal Audio Engine (PC)
VAudacity (PC/Mac)
VBEHRINGERUSBAUDIO-Driver(PC)
Enjoythe direct access tofantastic “GUITAR COMBOS”ofNative
Instruments which are to be found on the provided CD with the
installation guide and user’s manual.
The Native Instruments “GUITAR COMBOS” series combines
outstanding sound quality with maximum ease of use and
playability.
Classic Combos
GUITARCOMBOS perfectly recreatethree classic combos,using
the same critically acclaimed technology that has already won
GUITAR RIG numerous industry awards. The lovingly emulated
tube combos have an absolutely authentic, warm and dynamic
sound, producing the purest of tones. The different presets only
hint at the wide musical spectrum covered by these classic
amps.
Professional Sound
TheGUITAR COMBOS utilizethe sameDynamic Tube Response
technologythat was developed forGUITAR RIG, givingtheseries
the same exceptional sound quality. The GUITAR COMBOS are
perfectly suited to musicians with little or no experience of
professional music software. A computer, sound card*, a guitar
and these combos are all that is needed to enjoy the sound of
professional studio productions.
The Full Spectrum
TheGUITAR COMBO I(AC BoxCombo) is thepopular rolemodel
that revolutionised British pop music. From soft to distorted—this
combo has a uniquely inspiring sonic character. The GUITAR
COMBOII (TwangCombo) isthe epitomeof theclean andcrunchy
blues sound. Over the course of several decades this warm
and unmistakeable sound has made a valuable contribution to
countless hits. Based on the famous tube amps that spawned
the guitar legends of the late 60s and early 70s, the GUITAR
COMBOIII (Plexi Combo)embodies the rocksound. Its distinctive
and individual tone can be as warm as it can be hard.
Features
VBased on award-winning GUITAR RIG amps, cabinets and
effects
VThree unique combos, each with their own characteristic
design and sound
VIntuitive user-interface and particularly easy to use
VOutstanding, professional sound quality and performance
VEvery combo includes a tuner, noise gate and limiter
VAdditional, individual pre and post effects for each combo
VIntegrated Tapedeck for playback of audio files as well as
ametronome
VPresets included as well as option to save your own addi-
tional, personal presets
VFullMIDI compatibility includingMIDI learn functions
3 SOFTWARE
3 SOFTWARE

8
iAXE393 USB-GUITAR
3 SOFTWARE
3.3 Device drivers and latency
A device driver is an interface that ensures communication
between the software (audio application) and the hardware
(your iAXE393). In recent years, the PC platform has witnessed
the establishment of several different driver models for sound
cards. Some of these drivers cannot be used for simultaneous
recording and playback or for working with software plug-ins,
since they do not support the full performance provided by
professional sound cards and cause a long time delay (this is
called “latency”).
With standard Windows applications, you don’t need to worry
about which driver is currently being used by the operating
system. You only need to select the correct playback device via
the Windows “Control Panel”.
However, as soon as you start to produce or record computer-
based music and work with special audio software such as
Cubase, Live, Logic, Tracktion, or others, you should make sure
that you selected an ASIO driver. This driver model supports the
full range of functions offered by your hardware and gives you
the best performance. With the USB Audio Driver, we have
already included one of the fastest ASIO drivers currently
available.
You will normally find the selection of a driver model for computer
hardware in the standard default settings of the software you
are using. If necessary, check the documentation for your
software. Use the control panel to set up a lower latency. The
smallerthe value,the better. Ifaudio dropoutsoccur, tryincreasing
the latency in stages.
Things are much simpler with the Mac platform. With OS X
operating system, there is only one driver model, the CoreAudio
driver. Thus, there’s no need to worry about selecting a driver.
3.2 System requirements
To connect the iAXE393 USB-Guitar to a computer, you need a
free USB slot.
The iAXE393 USB-Guitar is compatible with both PC
and Mac computers. Therefore, no installation
procedure or drivers are required for the correct
functioning of the iAXE393 USB-Guitar. As soon as
you connect the iAXE393 USB-Guitar to a free USB
slot, it will be recognized as generic USB audio
device.
If you want to make use of the included drivers
and applications, please observe the system
requirements of the respective manufacturers.
IIf you want to use the guitar for real-time applications on the PC,
e.g. for recording or to use with the provided “Guitar Combos”
from NativeInstruments, we stronglyrecommend theinstallation
of the included USB audio driver to ensure a low latency (see
Chapter 3.3).
To work with the software that comes with the guitar, your
computer must meet the following minimum requirements:
PC MAC
Operating system Windows XP Mac OS X v10.3.x
Processor Pentium 700 MHz
Athlon XP 1.33 GHz G4 733 MHz
RAM 256 MB 512 MB

9
iAXE393 USB-GUITAR
4.1 Operation of the USB connector
Fig. 4.1: Wiring of the USB guitar
Use the USB cable, which is included, to connect the iAXE393
USB-Guitarto your computer.The USB unitofthe iAXE393 USB-
Guitar is bus powered—no separate power supply is needed.
The blue LED below the USB connector ( ) lights up and the
system will indicate the connection of a USB audio unit.
Connect your headphones to the PHONES-connector on the
guitar, which is located directly above the USB-connector. If you
don’t want to use your headphones, you can also connect a pair
of active monitors to the PHONES-connector—the BEHRINGER
MONITOR SPEAKERS MS16 are a perfect choice for this
application.
If you own a mixing console, you can do the following: connect
a stereo input of the mixing console to the PHONES-connector
and the active monitors to the control room outputs of the mixing
console.
4.2 Connection to a guitar amp
Fig. 4.2: Connection to a guitar amp
Instead of using the USB function of the guitar, you can also use
the guitar the same way as a conventional electric guitar. To do
so, simply connect the ¼" TS connector ( ) to a guitar amp
instrument input. This gives you the opportunity to play without
a computer, for example, when jamming with your band.
The conventional guitar output works independently from the
USB connector, meaning you can simultaneously play via the
USB port and a guitar amp. This way, you can set up a means of
direct monitoring to avoid latency problems.
The advantage of this setup is that while listening to the sound
coming from your guitar amp, you can record a clean guitar
sound.
Using plug-ins, you can experiment with different effects and
amplifiers afterwards.
4 APPLICATIONEXAMPLES
The iAXE393 USB-Guitar is an extraordinary guitar. You can connect it directly to a computer and record music or play along to your
favorite songs. Additionally, you can enjoy the exciting sounds of virtual guitar amps and stomp boxes. The iAXE393 USB-Guitar is
the perfect solution if you want to start playing immediately. It is so easy—plug and rock!
4 APPLICATION EXAMPLES

10
iAXE393 USB-GUITAR
5.1 Wiring
For connecting your iAXE393 USB-Guitar to your guitar amplifier,
you need a standard instrument cable.
Fig. 5.1: Unbalanced instrument cable with ¼" TS connector
5.2 Headphone connection
The iAXE393USB-Guitar provides aconnection for headphones.
You can connect any standard commercial headphone with a
¼"TRS jackplug. For miniTRS jackplugs, youwill need asuitable
adapter.You can seethe required pinallocation fromthefollowing
diagram.
Fig. 5.2: ¼" TRS stereo connector
5.3 USB cable
The iAXE393 USB-Guitar comes with a USB output for
connectingUSBcompatible deviceslikenotebooksorMP3 players.
Here you can connect any standard USB cable.
Fig. 5.3: USB connector cable
6 SPECIFICTATIONS
5 AUDIO CONNECTIONS
With both connection options—the common guitar output and the additional USB output—a variety of applications are at your
disposal. The well-known ¼" output jack can be connected to the input of your guitar amplifier as usual. With the help of the integrated
USB interface you turn your computer into an ultimate recording studio.
Whether for studio application or practicing at home, the audio connections used always remain the same:
GUITAR OUT
Connector ¼" TS, unbalanced
PHONESOUT
Connector ¼" TRS stereo jack
Output impedance approx. 50 Ω
Max. output level 4.5 dBu, 2 x 8.5 mW @ 32 Ω
USB 1.1
Connector type A
DIGITALPROCESSING
Converter 16-bit converter
Sample rate 32.0 / 44.1 / 48 kHz
POWERSUPPLY
USB connection 5 V , 100 mA max.
DIMENSIONS/WEIGHT
Dimensions
(H x W x D) approx. 990 mm x 330 mm x 60 mm
33.98" x 12.99" x 2.36"
Weight approx. (6.62 lbs) 3.0 kg
6 SPECIFICATIONS
SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS SOFTWARE (PC / MAC)
Operating system WinXP MacOSXv10.3.x
Processor min. Pentium700 MHz G4 733 MHz
Athlon XP 1.33 GHz
RAM 256MB 512MB
SOFTWARE
Applications please see feature list on chapter 3.1
Driver (Windows) high-performance driver
BEHRINGERUSBAUDIO
for Win 98 (SE)/ ME / 2000 / XP
Driver (Mac OS X) Core Audio
BEHRINGER is constantly striving to maintain the highest professional
standards. As a result of these efforts, modifications may be made from
time to time to existing products without prior notice. Specifications and
appearance may differ from those listed or illustrated.