Behringer GUITAR LINK UCG102 User manual

User manual
Version 1.0 October 2006
DEUTSCH
GUITAR LINK UCG102

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GUITAR LINK UCG102
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.
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 liquids and no objects
filled with liquids, such as vases,
shall be placed on the apparatus.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

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DETAILED SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS:
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, li-
quid 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 per-
form any servicing other than that contained in
the operation instructions.

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GUITAR LINK UCG102
UCG102
GUITAR LINK
VPlug in your favorite guitar and turn your PC or Mac computer into a guitar amp and recording
system without the need for any other hardware
VEnjoy immediate access to "Guitar Combos BEHRINGER Edition" from Native Instruments—the
leading authentic guitar amp and stomp box modeling software
VPackage also includes Kristal 16-track music production and Audacity editing software
VWorks directly with your PC or Mac computer—ultra-low latency ASIO drivers for PC included
VStereo Headphone output lets you jam with your computer and can also be used for monitoring
with active monitor speakers
VVariable-speed file playback function for MP3, WAV, AIFF audio files—perfect for easy
learning and practicing
VPowered via USB—no additional power supply required
VHigh-quality components and exceptionally rugged construction ensure long life
VConceived and designed by BEHRINGER Germany
The Ultimate Guitar-to-USB Interface to Jam and Record with Killer Modeling Amps and
Effects

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GUITAR LINK UCG102
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FOREWORD
Dear customer,
Welcome to the team of BEHRINGER users, and thank you very much
for expressing your confidence in us by purchasing this UCG102.
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 a USB
interface that allows a guitar to be connected directly to the computer,
convinces through its excellent sound and offers a maximum of flexibility
and performance. The task of designing our new UCG102 certainly
meant a great deal of responsibility, which we assumed by focusing on
you, the discerning user and musician. Meeting your expectations also
meant a lot of work and night shifts. But it was 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 made a significant contribution to shaping our company and making it successful.
In return, we guarantee you uncompromising quality as well as excellent technical and audio properties
at an extremely reasonable price. All of this will enable you to give free rein to your creativity without
being hampered by budget constraints.

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GUITAR LINK UCG102
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 UCG102 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,
Uli Behringer

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GUITAR LINK UCG102
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
1 INTRODUCTION ........................ 8
1.1 Before you get started ..................... 8
1.1.1 Shipment .................................. 8
1.1.2 Online registration ................... 9
2 CONTROLS AND
CONNECTIONS ....................... 10
3 SOFTWARE ............................. 12
3.1 Included software .......................... 12
3.2 System requirements ..................... 15
3.3 Device drivers and latency ............ 16
4 APPLICATION EXAMPLES ..... 17
4.1 Operation of the connector ............ 17
4.2 Connection to a guitar .................... 18
5 AUDIO CONNECTIONS ........... 19
5.1 Wiring .............................................. 19
5.2 Headphone connection .................. 20
5.3 USB cable ....................................... 20
6 SPECIFICATIONS .................... 21
7 WARRANTY ............................. 22
FCC—FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS
COMMISSION COMPLIANCE
INFORMATION ................... 26

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GUITAR LINK UCG102
Thank you for expressing your confidence in us
by purchasing the GUITAR LINK UCG102. Your
computer will become the ultimate working plat-
form on which you can use the classic effects, in
the studio as well as on stage. With a notebook, a
guitar and the UCG102, it is now possible to work
on the go, be it train or hotel.The GUITAR LINK
UCG102’s scope of delivery includes a first-class
modeling software with virtual amps and effects
pedals. Accompany songs in MP3-, WAV- and
AIFF-format which you can play from your PC or
Mac computer. A headphone connection with a
volume regulator is also available so that you
can enjoy the session with your favorite volumes
undisturbed, entirely after the motto “Plug‘n
Rock”..
1 INTRODUCTION
1 INTRODUCTION
1.1 Before you get started
1.1.1 Shipment
Your GUITAR LINK UCG102 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.

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GUITAR LINK UCG102
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1 INTRODUCTION
Never let unsupervised children play
with the device or with its packaging.
Please dispose of all packaging
materials in an environmentally
friendly fashion.
1.1.2 Online registration
Please, do remember to register your new
BEHRINGER 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.
Should your BEHRINGER product malfunction,
our goal is to have it repaired as quickly as pos-
sible. To arrange for warranty service, please con-
tact the retailer from whom the equipment was
purchased. Should your BEHRINGER dealer not
be located in your vicinity, you may directly con-
tact one of our subsidiaries. Corresponding con-
tact information is included in the original
equipment packaging (Global Contact Informati-
on/European Contact Information). Should your
country not be listed, please contact the distribu-
tor 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!

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GUITAR LINK UCG102
2 CONTROLS AND CONNECTIONS
2 CONTROLS AND CONNECTIONS
You can connect the UCG102 directly to an amp by means of the jack connector and to your PC or Mac
computer by using the USB connector. The USB connection supplies the power for the UCG102.
Fig. 2.1: Control elements and connections

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GUITAR LINK UCG102
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You can connect the guitar to your
computer via USB connection. The blue
control LED ( ) indicates that a
connection to the computer has been
established.
The VOLUME control adjusts the volume
level of the headphones output. Turn the
control fully to the left before you connect
the headphones. This helps you avoid the
damage that is caused by high volume
settings.
You can use a commercially available ¼"
jack for the -connection.
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 clockwise before
you switch on the unit. Be careful to se-
lect a suitable volume at all times.
You can connect the UCG102 to your guitar
via the guitar input (¼" jack). Use a
commercial ¼" mono jack cable.
You can modify the guitar signal with the
LEVEL switch. At high signal levels, the
CLIP LED (above the BEHRINGER LOGO)
will light up red in which case you should
set the LEVEL switch to LOW.
The blue LED indicates the status of the
USB connection.
2 CONTROLS AND CONNECTIONS

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GUITAR LINK UCG102
3 SOFTWARE
3.1 Included software
The UCG102 comes with a complete software
bundle which allows you to start immediately.
The software package consists of:
VNative Instruments “Guitar Combos
BEHRINGER Edition”—3 different combos
(PC/Mac)
VKristal Audio Engine (PC)
VAudacity (PC/Mac)
VBEHRINGER USB AUDIO-Driver (PC)
Enjoy the direct access to fantastic “GUITAR
COMBOS” from Native Instruments which are to
be found on the provided CD with the installation
guide and user’s manual.
The Native Instruments “Guitar Combos
BEHRINGER Edition” series combines out-
standing sound quality with maximum ease of
use and playability.
Classic Combos
The GUITAR COMBOS perfectly recreate three
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
The GUITAR COMBOS utilize the same Dynamic
Tube Response technology that was developed
for GUITAR RIG, giving the series 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.
3 SOFTWARE

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The Full Spectrum
The GUITAR COMBO I (AC Box Combo) is the
popular role model that revolutionized British
pop music. From soft to distorted—this combo
has a uniquely inspiring sonic character. The
GUITAR COMBO II (Twang Combo) is the
epitome of the clean and crunchy 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 COMBO
III (Plexi Combo) embodies the rock sound. 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 a metronome
VPresets included as well as option to save
your own additional, personal presets
VFull MIDI compatibility including MIDI learn
functions
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-BEHRINGER Internet page 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
3 SOFTWARE

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GUITAR LINK UCG102
follow the instructions found in the NI-
BEHRINGER-Shop, i.e. the shopping cart.
Fig. 3.1: Starting of NI-BEHRINGER-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 SOFTWARE

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3.2 System requirements
To connect the GUITAR LINK UCG102 to a
computer, you need a free USB slot.
The UCG102 is compatible with both PCs
and Mac computers. Therefore, no
installation procedure or drivers are
required for the correct functioning of the
UCG102. As soon as you connect the
UCG102 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.
If you want to use the guitar for real-time
applications on the PC, for example, to record or
to use with the provided “Guitar Combos” from
Native Instruments, we strongly recommend the
installation 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
3 SOFTWARE

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GUITAR LINK UCG102
3.3 Device drivers and latency
A device driver is an interface that ensures
communication between the software (audio
application) and the hardware (your UCG102). 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
operating system’s “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 smaller the value, the better. If audio
dropouts occur, try increasing the latency in stages.
With the 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 SOFTWARE

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4 APPLICATION EXAMPLE
4 APPLICATION EXAMPLE
You can connect the UCG102 directly to your computer in order to record, play along to a playback or
play directly over the modeling amps and effects. The UCG102 lets you get started immediately,
wherever you are. Simply hook up and start to rock.
4.1 Operation of the connector
Fig. 4.1: Wiring of the UCG102
Use the USB cable to connect the GUITAR LINK
UCG102 to your computer. The USB unit of the
UCG102 is bus powered—no separate power
supply is needed. The blue LED ( ) lights up
and the system indicates the connection of a
USB audio unit.
Connect your headphones to the PHONES
connector on the UCG102.
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 Series, MS16, MS20, MS40,
B2030A or B2031A are perfect choices for this
application.

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GUITAR LINK UCG102
5 AUDIO CONNECTIONS
5 AUDIO CONNECTIONS
With the integrated USB interface, you can change your computer to an ultimate recording studio.
Whether you rehearse at home or in the studio, the used audio connections always remain the same.
5.1 Wiring
You connect the UCG102 to your guitar via a standard instrument cable.
Fig. 5.1: Unbalanced instrument cable with ¼" TS connector

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5.2 Headphone connection
The UCG102 provides a connection for head-
phones. You can connect any standard com-
mercial headphone with a ¼" TRS jack plug. For
mini TRS jack plugs, you will need a suitable
adapter. You can see the required pin allocation
from the following diagram.
Fig. 5.2: TRS stereo connector
5.3 USB cable
The UCG102 comes with a USB cable for con-
necting USB-compatible devices like notebooks.
5 AUDIO CONNECTIONS

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GUITAR LINK UCG102
6 SPECIFICATIONS
GUITAR IN
Connector ¼" TRS
Input Impedance (High) 250 kΩ
Input Impedance (Low) 400 kΩ
PHONES OUT
Connector 1/8" TRS stereo jack
Output impedance approx. 50 Ω
Max. output pegel -2 dBu,
2 x 3.7 mW @ 100 Ω
USB 1.1
Connector type A
DIGITAL PROCESSING
Converter 16-bit converter
Sample rate 32.0 / 44.1 / 48 kHz
POWER SUPPLY
USB connection 5 V , 100 mA max.
DIMENSIONS/WEIGHT
Dimensions
(H x W x D) 24.6 mm x 95.6 mm x 50.8 mm
0.97" x 3.75" x 2.00"
Cable length 150 mm
Weight 0.092 kg
SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS (PC / MAC)
Windows XP, Pentium 700 MHz or Athlon XP 1.33 GHz,
256 MB RAM
Mac OS X v10.3.x, G4 733 MHz, 512 MB RAM
DRIVER
Windows BEHRINGER USB AUDIO
Mac OS X Core Audio
6 SPECIFICATIONS
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.