In the audio world, think of the audio interface as your computer's translator for sound. It turns the analog language of your instruments or voice into something your computer can understand.
However, when you step into the digital side of things, there are a bunch of possible hiccups your computer might block your way. That's where a few simple tweaks come in handy. These easy optimization steps not only make setting up with the Saturn I & II audio interface a breeze, but also make sure your experience of recording, playing back, or just jamming out is smooth on your computer.
Basic Maintenance
Optimize Audio Software Settings:
Buffer Size: Adjust the buffer size in your audio recording software to find a balance between low latency and system stability. Lower buffer sizes can reduce latency but may require more processing power.
What Buffer Size Should I Use?
https://www.carver-pro.com/knowledge-base/what-is-buffer-size-and-what-buffer-size-should-i-use
Disable Windows Background Apps:
Periodically check Task Manager to identify and close any unnecessary background processes that may be consuming system resources.
How to Disable Windows Background Apps?
https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/windows-background-apps-and-your-privacy-83f2de44-d2d9-2b29-4649-2afe0913360a
Disable Cloud-based application. (OneDrive)
In addition to disabling OneDrive, consider pausing or limiting automatic syncing during recording sessions to prevent potential interruptions.
How to Turn off or Uninstall OneDrive?
https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/turn-off-disable-or-uninstall-onedrive-f32a17ce-3336-40fe-9c38-6efb09f944b0
Driver (Firmware) Update
Ensure all your hardware drivers, including audio interface, GPU (graphics) are up to date. Manufacturers often release updates to improve performance and compatibility.
How to Update Device Drivers on Windows PC?
https://helpcenter.trendmicro.com/en-us/article/tmka-11234
Before installing a newer driver, it's advisable to uninstall the previous version and then reboot your computer once the new one is installed. This ensures that any potential leftover compatibility issues are addressed effectively.
How to Remove Software Leftover for Your Windows PC?
https://www.auslogics.com/en/articles/how-to-remove-software-leftovers/
Power Optimization
Set Power Option to High Performance Mode:
Enabling high-performance mode ensures your computer stays active and won't idle during your recording session or project, guaranteeing an uninterrupted and uncompromised experience. In addition to setting power options to High Performance mode, check advanced power settings. Ensure USB settings, PCI Express, and Processor power management settings are optimized for performance.
Change the Power Mode for Your Windows PC:
https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/change-the-power-mode-for-your-windows-pc-c2aff038-22c9-f46d-5ca0-78696fdf2de8
How to Turn-Off Sleep Mode for Your Windows PC?
https://www.hellotech.com/guide/for/how-to-turn-off-sleep-hibernation-mode-on-windows-10
Disable USB Suspend Setting
Windows' USB selective suspend feature is like a power nap for USB devices—it puts them in a low-power state when not in use to save energy. However, this cozy nap might cause issues for peripherals that need to stay wide awake and powered up all the time.
How to Disable USB Selective Suspend for Your Windows PC?
https://www.makeuseof.com/ways-to-disable-usb-selective-suspend-in-windows/
USB Hub Management
Whenever possible, connect your audio interface and other critical peripherals directly to the computer rather than through a USB hub. This can reduce potential latency and connectivity issues.
Further Reading:
How to Optimize Your PC for Music Production?
https://www.musicradar.com/how-to/how-to-optimize-your-pc-for-music-production