My Macbook won't recognize the Spark Mini (as Audio Interface)
-
Hi guys!
I'm pretty happy with my new Spark Mini amp. It sounds better than it has any business to!However, when it comes to connecting the amp to my Macbook Pro to use as an audio interface with Garageband to record I've had no luck at all. Although I can charge the amp with the USB C cable and update its firmware through the Spark Mini Firmware Updater just fine, it seems like the computer doesn't recognize that the amp is connected at all.
As I understand it, you should just be able to just choose the Spark Mini as the output, but the only two options I have are "System settings" (translated from Swedish, it may be called something else in English) or the built-in microphone on the laptop.
Both the computer and the amp are up to date, as far as updates go. I've tried two different USB C cables (just drove into town to buy one, didn't work either). I've tried resetting the amp, restarting it and the computer. The amp IS powered on. What am I missing? Anyone had similar issues?
My computer specs, if it is a factor:
Macbook Pro (16 inch, 2019)
Processor: 2,3 GHz 8-Core Intel Core i9
Memory: 16 GB 2667 MHz DDR4
Graphics: Intel UHD Graphics 630 1536 MB -
@oliverthulin I think this is a broader problem. I had been using my Spark 40 for years (as long as I've had it) into my iPad for Garageband. Just this week I did an update to iOS 15.6 and now it doens't want to work. I can't see it at all nor does it work in TikTok. I'm kind of bummed as two companies with the worst track record of supporting software issues are Apple and Positivegrid. Hopefully this can get sorted out soon.
-
@oliverthulin I'm having the same issue. Tried it on my MacBook Pro and Macmini - nothing shows up as an audio interface input. All software and firmware up to date.
-
So, digging around in their support, they contradict themselves:
Can I Use BIAS MINI Amp as Audio Interface in DAW or on My Computer?
Updated : May 15, 2022 14:34
BIAS MINI AMP doesn't come with a separate ASIO driver, meaning that it's not possible to recognize BIAS MINI guitar amp as an audio interface/device in your DAW for recording.
Please always feed the signal physically from the XLR-Out on MINI Amp to input of your audio interface to get it work. You can also track it directly with a dynamic/condenser/ribbon microphone.But their webpage says:
Record at Home.
USB audio interface and line out.
Make Spark MINI part of your own compact recording studio. Simply connect to your computer to record using the included PreSonus Studio One, or any DAW software or platform. Our Smart Out lets you choose between headphone or line out for versatile listening. -
Same problem, it doesnt work as an interface on latest Catalina despite I was able to upgrade it via cable.
On iPad and iPhone it also doesnt work.
-
Might be daft but have you made sure to press the power button so the Mini is actually on and not just charging?
On my Surface Book 2, I just plug the USB C into the computer and it starts working as audio out straight away.
Just got my Spark Mini today, and noticed that the firmware update it wanted said something about USB out fix.