Connect Your iOS Device to FlashTrack and Start Recording

One of the key features of FlashTrack DSP Microphone is its able to connect directly to a phone or tablet using a USB-C cable and record instantly while adding real time effects without a DAW. Since mobile devices come from different manufacturers and have various connector types, we will guide you step-by-step through connecting and using FlashTrack.

Different Compatibility for FlashTrack on Apple and Android Platforms

Mobile phones and tablets on the market are broadly categorized into two major camps: Apple (iOS) and Android.

In general, the Apple system has unified hardware standards and interfaces, a consistent audio architecture, and resources for peripheral development, testing, and maintenance are more focused and easier to consolidate. Hence it has better upport and compatibility with external devices like USB mics.

In contrast, the Android system is relatively diveresed. The USB controllers, audio chips, and even the functionality of the USB-C port (some support OTG, some support UAC, some only support charging) are difficult to maintain within a consistent specification range. This leads to uncertainties in compatibility among models. Cloudvocal will explain the details of Android compatibility in another article.

Given the current situation, we recommend using Apple products for better support and compatibility.

How to Connect FlashTrack to the Apple devices

Apple devices primarily feature two types of connectors: Lightning and USB-C. Earlier products used the Lightning connectors while recent models use USB-C. Both connectors are reversible to avoid direction isssues.

USB-C: Direct Connection to FlashTrack

In 2018, Apple first introduced the USB-C port on the iPad Pro. Subsequently, the iPad Air (4th generation, 2020), iPad mini (6th generation), and iPad (10th generation and later) all use USB-C.

As for the iPhone, USB-C was adopted since iPhone 15 and later.

If your device uses a USB-C port, you can connect the device to the FlashTrack using the USB-C to USB-C cable (check the product page for exact information) in the FlashTrack package.

After connecting FlashTrack to your device, simply unlock the screen to start.

Lightning：Adapter Required for FlashTrack Connection

If you are using iPhones or iPads with a Lightning port, you need to pay attention to the specific adapter setup.

First and foremost, avoid using a Lightning to USB-C cable.

The key is using the Camera Kit (Lightning to USB-A) + USB-C to USB-A cable connection method. Please note that Camera Kit: must be MFi-certified, otherwise the connection will fail.

Due to the design limitations, the device’s power supply to FlashTrack is restricted. In some situations, you may encounter a system alert: “This device consumes too much power¹,” which will stop power supply and use of FlashTrack. If this happens, you can connect an external power bank to the FlashTrack’s power port.

How to Confirm a Successful Connection to FlashTrack

On Apple devices, you can determine a successful connection by the color of the FlashTrack indicator. When the indicator turns purple, it means the audio is successfully transferred by FlashTrack.

If you cannot check by visual cues, you can record a short audio or video clip and tap the sides of your phone or tablet during the recording. If you hear a clear knocking sound during playback, it means the device has not successfully connected to FlashTrack and is still using its built-in microphone for recording.

If you are using a Mac/MacBook, just check for the signal source named “FT_USB” in the audio device settings.

Recommended Recording and Video Apps for FlashTrack

Since the iOS system has more consistent standards. You can simply open the built-in Voice Memos or Camera app, and FlashTrack will be the audio source for recording.

Meanwhile, built-in Garage Band app offers multi-track recording options. However, when using it with FlashTrack, remember to turn off the Loopback to prevent record the backing track all together.

For video recording, apps like Black Magic Camera offer advanced options, allowing users to record in superior video and audio quality.

For social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, you need to check if the software settings support external microphones.

Important Notes for Using FlashTrack with iPhone/iPad

Although the iOS platform offers high compatibility, here are some tips for FlashTrack users.

Avoid Hot-Plugging: Hot-plugging is to disconnec the cable while the recording app is active. This can cause audio error. If this occurs, we recommend restarting the application, reconnecting FlashTrack, or restarting the device.

Prevent CPU Overload: Overload can static-like sound shown in the linked video. While modern phones have increasing processing power and can handle multiple apps simultaneously, they are not specifically designed solely for pro audio processing. Therefore, minimize loadings from apps like WhatsApp, messenger, and social media while recording.

Capacitor Discharge: Due to capacitor characteristics, if FlashTrack is frequently plugged and unplugged in a short period, the microphone indicator light may turn red, and the screen may temporarily become unresponsive. In this case, simply unplug FlashTrack and let it sit for about 3 minutes for the capacitor to discharge naturally before resuming normal use.

Cable Length: Pay attention to the length of the cable used. Since the USB transmission rate decreases as the cable length increases, it is best to avoid using excessively long extension cables (ideally, keep the length under 2 meters). This helps maintain the stability of the connection and usage.

1. The Lightning connector has a maximum current output of 100mA. When FlashTrack’s DSP is under heavy processing load — for example, when an IR effect is activated — it may require more than 100mA of current. As a protective measure, the device will display a warning and disconnect from FlashTrack. ↩︎