GO2 Pro
High Performance USB DAC/Amplifier
Introduction
Geek Out 2Pro is a high performance portable USB digital-to-analog converter (DAC) and pure Class A headphone amplifier that builds upon the success of the Geek Out V2+.
Geek Out 2Pro is the master of adaptability. Leveraging its own dedicated 3200mAH Lithium-Ion battery power supply, we've designed it to be compatible with iOS (with Apple Camera Kit), Android Lollipop 5.0 & USB 2.0 audio class compatible devices without draining your source device's power.
Geek Out 2Pro has been designed with multiple selectable analog gain stages to accommodate the growing headphone collections of many audiophiles in one portable device.
Geek Out 2Pro accepts digital audio signals through USB, and outputs audio signals via 1/8”/3.5mm single-ended and a balanced headphone jacks.
When used in conjunction with the appropriate playback software, Geek Out 2Pro will decode almost any music file format and resolution available, up to and including Direct-Stream Digital (DSD).
Installation:
Unbox the Geek Out 2Pro and remove it from the plastic wrap.
Connect the Geek Out 2Pro to a USB port on the computer Apple IOS device or Android 5.0 device (without headphones or any other external components connected/powered on).
If connecting to a Mac, Linux computer, Apple IOS or Android 5.0 device, no driver is required. However, if a Windows PC is being used, download and install the Light Harmonic Audio Driver (link below). The Light Harmonic Audio Driver Setup Guide can be found in the LH Audio Driver section of the LH Labs support solutions site:
Light Harmonic Audio Driver:
*** IMPORTANT NOTE ***
The Light Harmonic Driver 2.29 will need to be installed. Older versions of the Light Harmonic Driver will not be compatible with GO2Pro.
Driver Setup Guide:
Configuration:
In order for the computer to play sound through the GO2Pro, the GO2Pro must be set as the default audio output device.
Windows:
After installing the Light Harmonic Audio Driver and Light Harmonic Control Panel, continue to follow the steps in the Light Harmonic Audio Driver Setup Guide to set the Windows Default Sound Output to the Geek Out 2Pro.
Mac:
In OS X, go to the Apple menu at the top left of the screen, and open System Preferences.
Click on the Sound icon, and select Geek Out 2Pro as the audio output device.
Using The Geek Out 2Pro
*** IMPORTANT NOTE ***
When the Geek Out 2Pro is plugged into the computer there may be a popping noise sent through the headphone outputs. This is caused by the charging of the power caps. This is a conscious design decision to not add a buffer as it would affect the sound quality.
It is recommended that the Geek Out 2Pro be left connected/powered on at all times during a full charge as it will keep the components warm, providing the optimal sound quality. However, if the Geek Out 2Pro needs to be disconnected/reconnected, Switched on or off, be sure to unplug headphones and/or power down the connected preamp/amp/active speakers to avoid any potential damage.
LH Labs will not be held responsible for any damage to equipment due to this design implementation.
*** WARNING! ***
Geek Out 2Pro is a very powerful amplifier. Damage can occur to your ears, and to your electronics if not used with care.Be sure to heed all instructions regarding the connection of the GO2Pro, and turn the computer or the device volume down prior to playback before adjusting to a comfortable listening level. LH Labs will not be held responsible for any damage due to this design implementation.
Volume Adjustment:
Geek Out 2Pro has an advanced 64-bit volume control that uses an ultra-high resolution, zero noise, bit perfect mechanism to avoid the inherent issues with previous digital volume attenuation methods, and noise associated with analog volume control.
The Geek Out 2Pro volume attenuation circuit replaces the volume calculations done by the computer with its own, ensuring the audio remains bit perfect through the entire conversion process.
When using the Geek Out 2Pro, volume is controlled from the computer or device/application audio controls.
There are no hardware volume controls on the Geek Out 2Pro.
LED Display.
Power LED display and status:
Charging Port Status.
Note: The Charging port status is not Dynamic but static by design. The result displayed is the previous state of Geek Out 2Pro charging condition. To get the most recent condition, power cycle the On/Off Switch.
BLUE ON LED = Power Applied to the Device is OK and ON.
The unit is ON and no external charger is connected to the charging port. The Geek Out 2Pro battery is charged. If the applied voltage is above 3.7V (Like just after full charge) or the applied voltage is below 2.8V (during normal discharge), the Blue Led will turn OFF.
GREEN ON LED = The Battery is Charging.
The unit is turned off, an external charging supply is connected to the port and the battery has at least a partial charge.If the battery is completely discharged, and the unit is off,connecting a charging source will not turn ON the unit immediately. There is a Li ion battery reconditioning time before the actual charging will start. This delay lasts on average 3-4 minutes. The Green LED will turn on right after that delay.
RED ON LED = The Battery is depleted and needs charging.
Geek Out 2Pro is ON, and no external charging source is connected and the battery is almost discharged.If the Battery voltage drops below 2.8V, the Red Led turns ON; it will turn OFF once the battery voltage rises above 2.8V (Please note if no LED is on, the battery is completely depleted and will need to charge).BLUE RED AND GREEN LED ON (simultaneously) =
Geek Out 2Pro is ON an external charging source is connected and the battery is discharged. The blue Green will start blinking alternatively; Geek Out 2Pro will not operate neither will it charge the battery since the charging current is immediately used by the unit.
Turn off your Geek Out 2Pro and allow at least 5 minutes to minimally charge the battery and operate the device autonomously without an external charger.
Digital Filters LED and status:
Digital filters are used to remove artifacts in the digital signal caused by the digital-to-analog conversion process, and manage settings for the internal DAC IC and re-clock jitter removal circuit.
Geek Out 2Pro offers the following filters:
- Blue LED ON denotes Time Coherence Mode is selected TCM. (default filter)
TCM (Time Coherence Mode) - Uses LH Labs minimum phase digital filter and time optimization algorithm, which removes all PRE-ring from the converted signal and realigns the impulse response. This presents the listener with a more well-defined and natural soundstage.
- Green LED ON denotes the Frequency Response Mode is selected FRM.
FRM (Frequency Response Mode) - Uses a slow roll-off linear digital filter and frequency domain optimization algorithm to provide a smoother and clearer sound with even lower THD+N in the high frequencies.
Sample rate LED and status:
While passing digital audio signals, GO2Pro will display the sample rate of the track being played.
Between the Filter and Gain LED of the Geek Out 2Pro is a blue LED that denotes a 44.1/48 kHz track is being played if none of the four LEDs near the bottom right of the device are lit.
Those four LEDs and their markers denote the following when lit:
2x 88.2/96 kHz track is being played
4x 176.4/192 kHz track is being played
8x 352.8/384 kHz track is being played
DSD DSD64/DSD128 track is being played.
1, White Led off: 44.1KHz/ 48 KHz file detected
2, White LED ON (Lowest Position); 2x (88.2KHz/96KHz) file detected.
3, White LED ON (mid position) ; 4x (176.4/ 192KHz) file detected
4, With LED ON (high Position); 8x 352.8/ 384KHz file detected
5, White turns blue (highest position); DSD file detected.
Analog Gain Stages:
Geek Out 2Pro features multiple analog gain stages to allow for the use of multiple types of headphones. With selectable gain stages of 1000mW and 100mW. Geek Out 2Pro works equally well with high power headphones, as with highly sensitive IEMs.
The bottom left button on the Geek Out 2Pro is used to select the gain. An LED beside the G marker denotes which stage is selected. The white LED denotes 100mW, while the blue LED denotes 1000mW.
Gain Setting LED Status:
- Blue LED ON denotes a Low gain of 100mW @16ohms (default)
- Red LED ON denotes a high gain of 1,000mW @16ohms
(note: When power cycling the GO2Pro, it will default to the lowest gain setting)
Single-ended And Balanced Outputs:
Geek Out 2Pro features two audio outputs. A 1/8”/3.5mm single-ended (TRS) output, as well as a 1/8”/3.5mm balanced (TRRS) output.
The Single-Ended Output is indicated with a "SE" mark above the headphone jack. A "BAL" for Balanced output is indicated above the jack that is immediately to the left of the USB Data Com port. It is not recommended to use a Single-ended (TRS) 3.5mm jack for the balanced output and will not be covered under warranty if damage occurs. By incorporating a TRRS to XLR cable, the Geek Out 2Pro can be connected to a home stereo system in full balanced mode.
GO2Pro Pin-Out Diagram:
Operating Temperature:
Geek Out 2Pro uses Class A amplifiers which inherently run quite hot. While the chassis has been optimized to allow for greater cooling with T6061 Aluminum, the GO2Pro can still get fairly hot.
This will not damage the unit, but care should be taken if setting the device on any objects while using a USB extension cable. Also, be sure to not block any ventilation holes.
Geek Out 2Pro Battery:
Geek Out 2Pro leverages its own dedicated 3200mAH Lithium-Ion battery power supply, we've designed it to be compatible with iOS (with Apple Camera Kit), Android Lollipop 5.0 & USB 2.0 audio class compatible devices without draining your source device's power.
Charging the battery:
Use the charger to charge the battery before using it for the first time. A computer can be also used to charge the device by connecting them via the USB cable on the top left Micro B charge port.
Use only LH Labs provided chargers, batteries, and cables. Unapproved chargers or cables can cause the battery to explode or damage the device. And will not be covered under warranty.
When the battery power is low, the battery LED will be Red.
If the battery is completely discharged, the device cannot be turned on
Immediately when the charger is connected. Allow a depleted battery to charge fully before turning on the device.
After fully charging, disconnect the device from the charger. First unplug the charger from the device, and then unplug it from the electric socket.
Do not remove the battery before removing the charger. This may damage the device.
When using a USB cable, plug the USB cable into the top left side Charge Port of the Geek Out 2Pro
Connecting the charger improperly may cause serious damage to the device. Any damage caused by misuse is not covered by the warranty.
Ensure that the GO2Pro Charge port is cover and cable end is inserted tightly to prevent water and dust entering the device. Open or loose covers may allow water and dust to enter the device and cause damage.
Be careful not to damage or detach the Geek Out 2Pro Chassis. A damaged or missing chassis can result in water damage to the device.
Plug the USB power adapter into an electric socket.
The device can be used while it is charging, but it may take longer to fully charge the battery.
While charging, the device may heat up. This is normal and should not affect the Device’s lifespan or performance. If the battery gets hotter than usual, the charger may stop charging.
If the device is not charging properly, Please open a ticket with us at lhlabs.com/support under support home page.
*** IMPORTANT NOTE ***
Warning!
Lithium-ion cells and battery packs for GO2Pro may get hot, explode or ignite and cause serious injury if exposed to abuse conditions. LH Labs is not responsible if an event should occur and any damage is taken. This includes equipment damage and any physical bodily harm. Be sure to follow the safety warnings listed below:
Do not connect the positive terminal and the negative terminal of the battery to each other with any metal object (such as wire).
Do not carry or store battery together with necklaces, hairpins or other metal objects.
Do not pierce the battery with nails, strike the battery with a hammer, step on the battery or otherwise subject it to strong impacts or shocks.
Do not expose battery to water or salt water, or allow the battery to get wet.
Do not place the battery in or near fire, on stoves or other high temperature locations.
Do not place the battery in direct sunlight, or use or store the battery inside cars in hot weather. Doing so may cause the battery to generate heat, explode or ignite. Using the battery in this manner may also result in a loss of performance and a shortened life expectancy.
Do not disassemble or modify the battery. The battery contains safety and protection devices, which, if damaged, may cause the battery to generate heat, explode or ignite.
Immediately discontinue use of the battery if, while using, charging or storing the battery, the battery emits an unusual smell, feels hot, changes color or shape, or appears abnormal in any other way. Contact LH Labs at our support site if this occurs
In the event the battery leaks and the fluid gets into one’s eye, do not rub the eye. Rinse well with water and immediately seek medical care. If left untreated, the battery fluid could cause damage to the eye.
Support:
If there are any issues completing any of the steps in this document, understanding any of the concepts, with audio playback, or with the device itself, please open a support ticket through the LH Labs support page at:
A knowledge base with frequently asked questions, and online repository of setup and user guides is available at:
http://support.lhlabs.com/support/solutions
Specifications:
Frequency Response: 2 Hz - 55 kHz (-0.1 dB)
Maximum Power Output: User switchable - 1000mW @ 16 Ohms, 100mW @ 16 Ohms 9 (Infinity model also has an 450mW @ 16Ohms)
Maximum Output Voltage: 4.0 Vrms (high gain)
Lithium-ion Battery: 3.7V 3200 Mah , max charge time between 6 to 8 hours.
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD+N): <0.01%
Signal to Noise Ratio (SNR): >105 dB unweighted, > 108 A-weighted
Input: USB 2.0 (Asynchronous)
Outputs: Dual 1/8”/3.5mm analog stereo (one single-ended TRS, one balanced TRRS)
Output Impedance: 0.47 Ohms
Output Stage OpAmp: Texas Instruments TPA6120A2
Amplifier Output Bias: Class A
Digital-to-Analog Converter IC: ESS SABRE9018AQ2M
USB Controller: XMOS XS1-SU01A-FB96
PCM Sample Rates Supported: 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz, 88.2 kHz, 96 kHz, 176.4 kHz, 192 kHz, 352.8 kHz, 384 kHz
DSD Sample Rates Supported: 2.8224 MHz, 3.072 MHz, 5.6448 MHz, 6.144 MHz
Bit Depth Supported: 1-bit, 16-bit, 24-bit, 32-bit
Chassis Construction: Premium T6061 Aluminum anodized Ferrari Red.
Geek Out 2Pro Infinity:
Maximum Power Output: Additional 450mW @ 16 Ohms output option
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD+N): -3dB THD+N additional performance boost
Additional Digital Filter Mode: Geek Out 2Pro Infinity utilizes a SSM filter for streaming services such as Tidal, Pandora and Spotify.
Limited Warranty Statement:
Your new Geek Out 2 Pro is covered by warranty to be free from defects in materials and workmanship for one year from the date of purchase. This warranty covers the cost of labor and materials for any repair deemed necessary by LH Labs. Proof of purchase or a copy of the sales receipt will be required for any claim made against the warranty, and claims are subject to the limitations and conditions outlined below.
A) Limitations and Conditions:
The unit will not be covered under warranty if:
It has been altered or modified in any way.
It has been damaged due to misuse, negligence, accident, or improper operation.
It has been subjected to water damage, or extremes of humidity or temperature.
It has been purchased from an unauthorized dealer, or unauthorized repair or service has been performed.
B) Repairs and Returns:
If the product is believed to be defective, a support ticket must be opened to initiate the Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) process.
A RMA number must be issued by LH Labs customer service department prior to return of any product.
A return address and phone number must be included.
Returned product must include the RMA number, a written description of the defect or issue, and a photocopy of the original purchase receipt.
The customer is responsible for paying shipping charges to LH Labs when applicable.
If the product is found to be out of warranty, the customer will be given the option to pay for the repairs or replacement, or to have the product returned to them.
C) Original Purchaser
This warranty is for the sole benefit of the original Geek Out Go2Pro purchaser, and shall not be transferable to any subsequent purchaser of the product.
This warranty statement can also be found online at:
http://lhlabs.com/marketplace/geek-out/warranty.html