Why this setup?

The phone built-in mic is rarely suitable for music or singing on stage. A USB interface (such as the M-Audio Duo HD) provides mic preamps, XLR/jack inputs, and level control. A USB-C hub with external power prevents the phone from cutting power to the interface and allows charging at the same time.

Required hardware

  • <strong>Smartphone</strong> (iOS or Android) with USB-C port
  • <strong>External USB-C power</strong> (wall adapter or battery compatible with fast charging, depending on your hub)
  • <strong>USB-C hub</strong> with passthrough power port (often labeled "PD" or "power delivery")
  • <strong>Audio interface</strong>: e.g. <strong>M-Audio Duo HD</strong> (or USB-C / USB class mobile-compatible equivalent)
  • <strong>Mic or source</strong> (XLR mic, instrument, line…)
  • <strong>Cables</strong>: USB-C to hub, XLR or jack depending on your mic / instrument, extensions if needed
Compatibility

Details vary by phone brand and OS version. Check your interface specs: USB Audio Class support and, on iOS, a powered hub is often required for USB interfaces.

Step 1: Connections (in this order)

  1. 1Connect USB-C power to the dedicated port on the hub (passthrough charging).
  2. 2Connect the M-Audio Duo HD (or your interface) to a USB port on the hub via USB-C (included or suitable cable).
  3. 3Plug your mic or instrument into the interface inputs (XLR, combo jack, etc.) and set gain on the interface.
  4. 4Connect the smartphone to the hub with a good-quality USB-C cable (data + charge).

Step 2: Verify audio on the phone

Once everything is connected, the system should list the interface as a USB audio device. On Android, open audio settings or a test app; on iOS, input/output may appear when an app uses the mic. If nothing appears, disconnect/reconnect while keeping hub power plugged in.

Step 3: Join your Gniark Live

  1. 1Open the browser on the smartphone and go to Gniark Live (as for a regular live).
  2. 2Log in and open the live page, then join the room as presenter.
  3. 3When the browser asks for microphone access, allow it.
  4. 4In the room (or browser) audio / device settings, select the input matching your USB interface rather than the phone built-in mic.
  5. 5Check the VU meters: speak or play briefly; viewers should hear the signal from the interface. Adjust gain on the M-Audio if the level is too low or clips.
Network and stability

Prefer stable Wi-Fi or 4G/5G with good upload speed. Avoid moving the USB-C cable excessively during the live. Keep the phone shaded or ventilated for long sessions.

Practical tips

  • Test the setup <strong>before</strong> show day (USB recognition + room).
  • Keep a <strong>backup power supply</strong> (second cable or battery) if you are outdoors.
  • For <strong>video</strong>, mount the phone on a tripod and frame it like a concert; audio will go through the interface.

Solution page

This guide covers technical setup. Explore the Gniark Live commercial offering for this use case.

View solution page — Live streaming that survives loud transients

Frequently asked questions

My smartphone does not recognize the USB audio interface.

Check that the hub is powered via USB-C (passthrough) to supply enough current to the phone and interface. Try another USB-C cable and confirm the interface is USB Audio Class compatible with mobile devices.

The smartphone battery drains very quickly during a live.

Prefer mains power on the hub power port rather than an external battery alone, and lower screen brightness. A hub with pass-through charging powers the phone during the session.

Participants cannot hear my mic.

Allow microphone access in the browser, then in the Gniark Live room choose the input matching your interface (M-Audio or USB name). Check levels on the interface and that the mic is plugged into the correct XLR/jack input.

Ready to test in real conditions?

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