iConnectivity PlayAUDIO 2U Audio and MIDI Interface

About: iConnectivity PlayAUDIO 2U Audio and MIDI Interface

Take command of your shows with PlayAUDIO2U, a comprehensive audio interface for live performance.

A first-of-its-kind all-in-one solution, PlayAUDIO2U delivers a massive set of tools in a robust tour-ready enclosure. Audio inputs, outputs, MIDI I/O, MIDI control, and RTP networking all integrated through iConnectivity’s legendary redundancy, let you input audio, playback tracks and/or virtual instruments, and connect MIDI throughout the venue.

PlayAUDIO2U streamlines your computer-based rig with one magic box that lets you do it all.

Features

• 2x USB C type ports for connecting computing devices
• Automatic and manual computer switching modes, for lightning-fast switching between connected computers
• 4x user assignable buttons can be mapped to MIDI functions, control numerous functions on the interface and/or send control messages to compatible devices
• 2x 2 button  “Control” footswitch jacks with can be mapped to MIDI functions, control over numerous functions on the interface and/or sending control messages to compatible devices
• Audio Protection helps stop unwanted noise from corrupt audio sources/files from making it into the audience
• Auracle software enables you to tailor the PlayAUDIO2U’s settings to your exact needs
• High-resolution audio - Studio sound quality for the live arena - up to 24-bit/96kHz AD/DA conversion
• “MIDI learn” from external MIDI devices to control key functions on the interface
• Large OLED screen for instantaneous status information and precise control
• 2U ready-to-tour rack-mountable chassis
• 24 Balanced panel reinforced XLR outputs
• 4 XLR / ¼” TRS combo analog inputs
• 4 pristine ultra-low noise microphone preamps with 48V phantom power
• Integrated +48v phantom power resistance on outputs protects your interface from accidental damage when plugging directly into consoles or stage boxes (please note we cannot guarantee 100% protection indefinitely. It is best practice not to send +48v phantom power into any audio interface’s outputs)
• 1x 1/4” TRS stereo headphone output with dedicated control for convenient headphone monitoring
• 4x USB MIDI host ports, offering USB MIDI connectivity for Class Compliant controllers and/or modules
• DIN-MIDI ports built-in (2 in 2 out)
• Dual Ethernet MIDI jacks with a total 22 ports of connectivity for rugged long-distance MIDI connections
• Comprehensive audio mixing and routing between connected USB computing devices and analog outputs
• Easy-to-use buttons and rotary encoders provide software-less control over PlayAUDIO2U’s key features from the front panel
• 100-240v switching power built-in with Industry-Standard IEC Power Connection

Audio Inputs Built for Live Performance

The PlayAUDIO2U delivers audio inputs tailored for the stage, offering silence when idle and a wide dynamic range to capture every detail with clarity.

Its four XLR/¼” TRS combo inputs, paired with pristine mic preamps and 48V phantom power, are built to capture vocals and instruments cleanly without coloration or compromise.

Swiftly send audio to redundant performance computers for seamless processing of voices, instruments, and more, all within your tour-ready PlayAUDIO2U setup.

For aficionados of outputs

PlayAUDIO2U has a whopping 24 XLR outputs!

PlayAUDIO2U is ready for your performance. Plug it directly into your snake, loom, or stage box and go. Also, the XLR jacks are reinforced by the chassis, making them stand up better to withstand the rigors of the road.

It’s the perfect combination: top studio quality clarity, packaged for touring.

The PlayAUDIO2U Display - Your Live Performance Command Center

Like a trusted assistant, the PlayAUDIO2U’s advanced display delivers real-time insights into your setup. Monitor MIDI activity, audio levels, and system status at a glance, with instant warnings for computer failures or other issues, keeping you in complete control of your performance.

With the PlayAUDIO2U’s intuitive display, setting up your rig and troubleshooting problems is faster and easier than ever.

PlayAUDIO2U is a MIDI miracle worker

iConnectivity has been the leader in MIDI connectivity for years. The PlayAUDIO2U brings that expertise to your live performances. This beast of a MIDI interface and controller provides a staggering multitude of MIDI connectivity to connect performers and operators, allowing you to manage MIDI everywhere throughout your stage and venue.

The PlayAUDIO2U acts as your central MIDI hub and control center, connecting devices via its integrated 5-pin MIDI DIN, USB host ports, computers, and dual RTP Ethernet ports for venue-wide networking. Its programmable control ports and 4 assignable front-panel buttons let you even directly assign MIDI commands directly from the interface to control the show! This comprehensive interface simplifies even the most intricate MIDI workflows and enriches them effortlessly with reliability.

With PlayAUDIO2U, you tailor what MIDI goes where and when. For instance, iConnectivity’s powerful MIDI processing lets you easily send MIDI to connected computing devices while only sending one set of program changes to connected peripherals, send all notes off if computer failure occurs to avoid stuck notes, filter out extraneous CCs, and much more.

Uncompromising Protection for Your Performance

Engineered for the demands of touring, the PlayAUDIO2U ensures every detail is crafted to keep your show flawless.

• Seamless Redundancy: The PlayAUDIO2U safeguards your performance with iConnectivity’s renowned multi-computer redundancy, actively monitoring audio signals or MIDI and instantly switching computers if issues arise—faster than anyone can hear.
• Advanced Audio Protection: Beyond detecting software glitches, it vigilantly monitors audio streams, automatically switching to a Safe Mode, muting outputs at the first sign of any potential trouble, and displaying diagnostics to prevent unwanted noise or glitches from reaching your PA system or monitors.

Specifications

• System Requirements
  • Macintosh
    • Mac OS X 10.13 or later (for Auracle control software)
  • Windows
    • Windows 10 or later (for Auracle control software)
  • iOS
    • iOS 8 or greater*
    • CoreMIDI compatible app
      • *Apple Lightning to USB Camera adapter required for use with Lightning equipped iOS devices (adapter not included)
  • Android
    • Android 8.0 or higher with USB-C connector
• Audio
  • Digital Performance
    • 24-bit resolution
    • Supported sample rates: 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz, 88.2 kHz, and 96 kHz
  • Line Outputs
    • Maximum Output Level: +16 dBu, 13.83 Vp-p Balanced
    • D-A Dynamic Range: 115 dB (-60dBFS, A-weighted)
    • D-A S/N: 115 dB (A-weighted)
    • D-A THD+N: -107 dB
    • D-A Interchannel Isolation: 110 dB (1 kHz, Typical)
  • Headphones
    • Maximum Output Level: 100 mW per channel, 5.1 Vp-p into 32-ohm load
    • D-A Dynamic Range: 108 dB (-60dBFS, A-weighted)
    • D-A S/N: 108 dB (A-weighted)
    • D-A THD+N: -91 dB
• MIDI
  • Two pairs 5-pin MIDI DIN I/O
  • Up to 16 MIDI ports (256 total MIDI channels) per computer device
  • USB Host Port supports up to eight USB MIDI devices (via powered USB hub, not included)
• USB Host Port
  • Power: +5V DC, 500mA maximum
• USB-C Ports
  • Connect to Windows or macOS computer(s), Android or iPadOS devices (USB only, Apple Lightning not supported).
• Power
  • Input: 100V - 240V AC, 50 - 60 Hz 48W
  • Fuse: 1A Slow-Blow
• Dimensions (WxHxD): 19 x 3.43 x 7.87 inch (482 x 87 x 200mm)
• Weight: 8.38 lbs (3.8kg)

What's in the Box

• 1x PlayAUDIO2U Audio + MIDI interface
• 2x USB-C to USB-C cables
• 1x (Each) Type B, G, and F type IEC power cables